Clairbourn School

Music Education at ClairbournPROVIDING TOOLS FOR BUILDING A BRIGHT ACADEMIC FUTUREKristopher Ruonala Perez, Emily Gifford and Cameron Wen played the sax in last year’s Coffee Concert.At Clairbourn, music education and performancecomprise a vital part of the student’s core learningexperience. Each year, music students areshowcased in two Christmas Concerts, a Spring Programwith a choir of about 350 students, and two “CoffeeConcerts,” where approximately 130 students from thefourth, fi fth, and middle school grades perform in a varietyof band and orchestra groups.But why music? What is it that makes this subject sucha powerful component of a modern-day education? Onereason is the “stickiness” of information learned whenChildren who have received music instructionscored higher marks on tests of their spatial andarithmetic skills.Rauscher, F.H., Shaw, G.L., Levine, L.J., Wright, E.L., Dennis, W.R.,and Newcomb, R.: Music Training Causes long-term enhancementof preschool children’s spatial temporal reasoning, 1997.SPRING 2008 BRANCHING OUTcoupled with music. At Clairbourn, instruction in the musicroom is closely integrated with the academic curriculum.Preschool students learn songs about colors, the alphabet,numbers, days of the week, and dances designed to helpthem learn their right from their left. Third-graders studyingThe Gold Rush and The Oregon Trail are taught pioneersongs and dances to reinforce their lessons. They alsolearn geography by singing “Fifty Nifty States” and, forstudents of all ages, concepts of math and science areregularly incorporated.Music study is also credited with giving students a broadworld view. It is often through music that students get a positivefi rst introduction and appreciation for world culturesand languages other than their own. The Silver Burdettbrand teaching materials used at Clairbourn showcasethe language, music, dance, and customs of people theworld over. Young students learn to speak and sing in otherlanguages, they learn about the special instruments anddances of various cultures, and learn to improvise using Orff(continued on next page)1

musicEDUCATIONEighth-graders from the class of 2007 performing on guitars.Fifth-grader, Andrea Ramirez, playing the Conga Drums.instruments set-up in pitch patterns, scales, or modes that fi tin the cultural setting of the music to be performed.Music education is additionally shown to develop toleranceand positive social interaction in students. By embracinga wide variety of styles and genres, students areable to understand that diversity is beautiful. The SilverBurdett music materials reinforce this lesson by coveringmusical styles such as classical, pop, rock, jazz, ragtime,Young children with developed rhythmskills perform better academicallyin early school years.Eric Jensen, Arts With the Brain in Mind, 2001ABOVE: Students T.J. McGovern and Sacha Codiga play theirpart in a musical piece being learned by their class.nursery rhymes, and other styles that span the musicalcenturies. As students experience many different types ofmusic, they learn to expand their concepts of what shouldbe appreciated and celebrated.It has also been shown that rhythm and movementskills taught through music are good for motor-skilldevelopment. Body percussion is a proven educationalmethod for developing hand-eye coordination and fi neand large motor skills in preschool and elementary schoolchildren. All four of the most commonly used methodsof music education (Orff-Schulwerk, Kodaly, Jaques-Dalcroze Eurhythmics, and Comprehensive Musicianship)incorporate movement training. For instance, Orff usespre-planned and improvisational movement as wellas dance to express physically the musical elements of2 BRANCHING OUT SPRING 2008

musicEDUCATIONTHE FACTUAL BENEFITSOF MUSIC EDUCATIONKylie Salkin and Caitlyn Callahan played the fl ute at last year’s ChristmasProgram.• Higher Test Scores• Better in Math• Better in Science• Better at Timed Tests• Confidence• Leadership Skills• Teamwork• Logical Reasoning• 67% of CEOs of Fortune 500Companies were in high school band• SAT Scores Higher for InstrumentalMusic Students• Higher Rate of College Acceptance• Culture and Appreciation• Right and Left Brain DevelopmentPre-K students participate in learning a fun dance in music class.tempo, dynamics, articulation, and the interplay of melody,countermelody, and harmony.Taught correctly, music is also proven to providepowerful success and accomplishment opportunities.Carl Orff developed a special line of Orff instruments,currently in use at Clairbourn, that allow young studentsto make great sounding music right away without theinitial off-putting barrier of time and laborious practice. Hedesigned special child-sized xylophones, metallophones,and glockenspiels with removable bars that allow theteacher to leave in place only the notes that sound goodtogether when students improvise on the instruments.This removes the possibility for failure or embarrassment,and thus frees the students to explore their musicality. Inaddition, confi dence is established through repetition ofmusical concepts—a technique in education known asSPRING 2008 BRANCHING OUT“spiraling.” Beginning fi rst at a simplistic level, and thenrevisiting those same musical concepts at an ever-growinglevel of complexity, the scope and depth of the students’understanding are securely and positively increased.The use of SmartBoard technology has also facilitatedthe richness and speed of what students can learn andaccomplish in the music classroom. Students, as youngas four, interact with the lesson on the screen by movingsymbols and writing music with a touch of their fi nger.They can also interact with virtual musical instruments onthe SmartBoard that enable a student to touch the virtualkeys and hear the instruments being played. This classroomtechnology makes it possible to show video footage andvisit Internet sights that offer background material andphotos of the subjects, places, people, and instrumentsbeing studied.(continued on next page)3

musicEDUCATIONBut overall, the primary reason to have a strongmusic program is the tandem cross-discipline learningexperience that students can’t get anywhere else in theeducational spectrum. Music develops, involves, andteaches the whole person. According to extensive studiesand books by MENC, Bennett Reimer, and David Elliott,music involves the student more thoroughly and completelyKevin Tie plays the xylophone.in the intelligences of learning than most other subjects. Itinvolves the student in creative self-expression, developsan understanding and appreciation for art, beauty,and aesthetics, and at the same time, it involves thestudent in the logical, pragmatic, and technical thoughtprocesses involved in playing instruments. Students learnmemorization, calculation of rhythms, meters, tempo andduration, and perform those calculations at high speeds.They develop and apply small and large motor skills,hand-eye coordination, and dexterity, while simultaneouslyutilizing “higher level learning” by analyzing, listening,evaluating, and making minor adjustments to improvethe musicality of the performances. The above activitieshappen in tandem in music education. Perhaps this iswhy studies overwhelmingly show a wealth of benefi ts,including better performance, on timed tests such as theSAT and increased scores on IQ tests.Overall, the goal of music education at Clairbourn isnot to create small professional musicians, but instead todevelop in the student a love for music, an ever-expandingmusical intelligence, and give them vital skills to furtherother areas of their personal and academic development.Clairbourn is well on its way to meeting that goal thanks toDr. Robert and Dr. Jane Cheatham, who were the catalystsfor getting this wonderful program started. Anyone whowould like to support the continued success of Clairbourn’smusic program can go to the school’s website at www.clairbourn.org/donations/ to contribute to the Dr. RobertT. and Dr. Jane A. Cheatham Family Music EndowmentFund. The school is indeed grateful for everyone whodemonstrates that one or two people with vision can makea huge difference in the lives of our students.Data from the National Educational Longitudinal Study of 1988 showed that music participantsreceived more academic honors and awards than non-music students, and that the percentageof music participants receiving As, As/Bs, and Bs was higher than the percentage of nonparticipantsreceiving those grades.Source: NELS:88 First Follow-up, Source Date: 1990-01-014 BRANCHING OUT SPRING 2008

enrichmentACTIVITIES ON CAMPUSAcclaimed violinist, Jennifer Levin, gatheredJenniferwith middle-school violin students afterLevinher concert to help them develop their technique.Violinist,Students at Clairbourn School were recently treatedto a musical program given by world-class violinist,Jennifer Levin, and her accompanist, Riko Kohazame.Selections played included “Le Cygne” (from Carnival ofthe Animals) by Camille Saint-Saëns, the “Spanish Dance”by Granados-Kreisler, the “Roumanian Dances” by BelaBartok, and two pieces by Burgmueller on the piano.Following the performance, six violin students from theClairbourn Orchestra were given brief one-on-one lessonsby Levin to help them improve their technique. JenniferLevin’s accomplishments include winning the NationalSymphony Young Soloists Competition as a senior in highschool. She is also a graduate of the Indiana UniversitySchool of Music, and she has worked with the KennedyCenter Opera Orchestra in Washington D.C. whereshe won an audition to be the Concertmaster. Currently,she is a recording musician for movies and records andperforms with the Los Angeles Opera and the Los AngelesPERFORMS AT CLAIRBOURNChamber Orchestra. Many thanks to the Kessell familywho arranged for the school to experience this wonderfulperformance and musical workshop.Jennifer Levin, and her piano accompanist, Riko Kohazame, playedbright and beautiful musical selections for the entire school at a specialmusic assembly. Jennifer Levin is the aunt of sixth-grader Carly Kesseland first-grader, Chloe Kessel.SPRING 2008 BRANCHING OUT5

Portrait of classmate, Spike Larr, from Miranda’s photography exhibit “13.”Making Her Mark in PhotographyEIGHTH-GRADER, MIRANDA STEINWithin every person are special talents waiting to bediscovered. They usually burst onto the scene whenone encounters a key stimulus. For some it can be the fi rsttime they sit down at a piano, pick up a basketball, or turnon a computer. But for Clairbourn eighth-grader, MirandaStein, a natural talent for photography appeared at 11years old when she began playing with one of her mom’sold cameras. Her interest was further developed whenher mother, Molly Stein, who is a trained photographer,showed her a few professional tips on how to use thecamera and taught her some basic lessons on what makesa picture memorable. Miranda soon realized she shared alove for her mom’s favorite photography subject—people.She followed her mother’s advice to create pictoral interestby shooting the subject up close or having something inthe foreground out-of-focus between the camera lens andthe subject. With some basic lessons in hand and hernatural intuitive sense, Miranda started to build a body ofhighly accomplished photographic work.To deepen her understanding, Mrs. Stein shared withMiranda her collection of photography books, enablingher to study the work of famous American photographerssuch as Mary Ellen Mark, William Eggleston, Diane Arbus,Gary Winogrand, and Keith Carter. “They all made melook at people and the way the light works and changesin a whole new way. Most of all, they taught me that6 BRANCHING OUT SPRING 2008

photographerMIRANDA STEINDaniel Mock and Miles Brenninkmeijer had a great time viewingMiranda’s stunning photography work.a single photograph can capture more than a person orthing, but it can also tell a story. That is what I hope toproject with my photographs,” Miranda explains.When it came time to prepare for applying to highschool, Miranda wanted to have an extra specialaccomplishment to highlight on her educational resumé.One of her mom’s friends suggested that Miranda havea photography show. In thinking it over, her mom said,“Look, it took me ten years to ‘get it’ and you have ‘it’right now.” That sentiment was confi rmed by anotherprofessional photographer they consulted who said, “I’veworked with some of the greatest photographers—andher way of capturing the moment, perceiving when themagic will happen…that’s the battle—and she’s doing itMiranda (right) worked the crowd at her gallery opening greeting friendsand their parents.Family friend, Moon Unit Zappa, says ofher work “Miranda’s photos show what nogrown up can see—they let parents visuallyeavesdrop on their kids. If she’s this skillednow, what will she do when she’s old enoughto drive?”in these photographs. She has ‘it’ right now.” So the Steinfamily made the decision to work together as a team toput on Miranda’s fi rst photography exhibit—which wasno small feat in terms of the cost of printing and framing,securing gallery space, promoting the event, and planning(continued on next page)Miranda’s gallery opening was a big success and was well attended by friends and family.SPRING 2008 BRANCHING OUT7

photographerMIRANDA STEINPortrait of Miranda’s classmate Jordan Marks from Miranda’s photography exhibit “13.”the gallery opening.To prepare for the show, over the summer Mirandabegan photographing as many people as she could, usinga handy Sidekick camera phone or her mom’s Nikon. Hersubjects included guys at the pool who were teaching herbrother, Ethan, to swim; her friend from Polytechnic School,Frances Anderton, host and producer of KCRW,said, “Miranda Stein paints with her camera;she has a sense of composition and visualstorytelling that belies her years.”who is learning to be a golf pro; and her fellow eighthgradersfrom Clairbourn. After a lot of hard work fromher entire family, her exhibit, “13”—a collection of blackand white photographs, opened on Saturday, September29, 2007 at the Catina Ferraine Gallery in Pasadena.Miranda describes “13” as a photographic story of 13-year-old kids from Pasadena, California, living out theirown “private school and shopping mall soap operas,”based in a larger world that is foundationally uncertain.Not only was the show a hit, but the photographswere shown to the band Matchbox Twenty by Moon UnitZappa, a friend of Miranda’s mom, and wife of the band’s8 BRANCHING OUT SPRING 2008

photographerMIRANDA STEINClockwise from above: Paul Doucette, bassist for Matchbox Twenty.Lead singer, Rob Thomas. New drummer for Matchbox Twenty, RyanMcMillan.guitar player, Paul Doucette.The band had been looking for somebody to shootsome candid journalistic style publicity shots for theirupcoming tour. They liked her work and agreed to takea chance on a 13-year-old! Soon she was hired for herfi rst professional job photographing Matchbox Twenty onthe “Jimmy Kimmel Live” show, both backstage and duringtheir on stage performance.For the shoot, Miranda met the band at the JimmyKimmel Studio in Hollywood, and took pictures of themthroughout the day, including on stage with them whilethey performed. She explained, “Even though I am only13, they treated me like a professional—which reallymade me feel like this was something I could do for along time. I don’t know what the future holds for me—Ionly know I will be taking pictures of it!” Miranda willattend Mayfi eld Senior High School next year where shewill continue her study of photography.Additional images from Miranda’s photographyexhibit can be seen on her website at:http://www.quellette.net/STEIN/mirandahome.html.SPRING 2008 BRANCHING OUT9

Co-authors, Marlee Matlin and Doug Cooney, signed copies of their books for the students after the assembly.Marlee Matlin, Defying ChallengesBOOK FAIR VISITING AUTHORSOscar-winning actress, children’s book author, andnew Clairbourn parent, Marlee Matlin, was one ofthis year’s special visiting authors for the Reading to theRescue bookfair. At the book talk, Marlee, along with hersign language interpreter and her distinguished co-writer,Doug Cooney, explained to the fourth through sixth gradestudents that her books are mainly based on her own reallifeexperiences and challenges. In all three books, DeafChild Crossing, Nobody’s Perfect, and Leading Ladies,she is represented by the character Megan, a ten-year-oldgirl, who loves purple and has a dog named Toto (just likeMarlee), and is trying to be herself while growing up inthe suburbs of Chicago.Unlike some authors concerned with storytelling for itsown sake, Marlee’s books are about conveying a vitalmessage. She knew at an early age that she wanted towrite a book telling everyone that it is O.K. to be deaf.When she would encounter especially challenging daysas a child, that dream gave her comfort and strengthenedher drive to someday make a difference. She was alsoDoug Cooney and Marlee Matlin read from a chapter in their latestbook, Leading Ladies.10 BRANCHING OUT SPRING 2008

authorVISITmotivated as an adult to write these books for her daughter,Sarah.Her fi rst book, Deaf Child Crossing, took two years tocomplete. The book compels the reader to realize that thisis not a story about the problem of deafness, but about aperson—a young girl who just happens to be deaf. AsMegan grows up in the story, the reader is shown that justlike everybody else, she has desires, dreams and fears,and has to deal with the highs and lows of life. But themain difference is, Megan works hard not to let deafnessget in the way, and refuses to let it stop her from doingwhat she wants to do or become.The title of the book is drawn from Marlee’s ownexperience as a child when her parents asked the city to posta large bright-yellow sign in front of their house that read,“Caution: Deaf Child Crossing.” Marlee at fi rst viewedthe sign as identifying her with some sort of defi ciency,but that sign soon became the means of recognizing anddestroying her attitudes about her hearing that had becomepersonal barriers. Her parents helped her to understandthat the sign was really an announcement for people totake notice of her very presence and individuality—that“it was me, not my deafness, that was notable” and that“deafness was all in my mind and not in my ears.”It was important to Marlee that her books be veryaccurate in describing her own childhood experiences andchallenges with being deaf. Her fi rst book was written onher own, but for the second two books, she turned to theprofessional children’s book writer and playwright, DougCooney, for co-authoring help. They worked well togetheras a team. He helped her stories come to life and madesure they were true to Marlee’s experience.At the end of the presentation, Marlee and Dougtook questions from the students, who were thrilled andfascinated by the talented people seated before them.Many of the students were curious to have her show themthe signs for various words, and as a parting gift she taughtthe audience the most important sign for anyone to learn—“I love you!” The assembly ended with the students’ roaringapplause and thunderous stomping feet which shook thebleachers, in response to which Marlee joyfully smiledand replied, “I heard that!”During the Q&A session of the talk, the students had a fl ood of questionsfor the authors.SPRING 2008 BRANCHING OUTAt the end of her talk, Marlee Matlin taught the students the sign for“I love you” as displayed by fifth-graders Tillie Pederson and Alex Graves.11

Ethical DecisionsMade a Little EasierAS PRESENTED BY THE INSTITUTE FOR GLOBAL ETHICSAs the world charges ahead in managing the affairs ofbusiness and daily life, people are often caught offguardwhen suddenly confronted with an ethical decision.Without proper preparedness, it can be typical to makepoor choices that negatively impact many other people.To help develop ethical decision-making awareness,speaker Paula Mirk, from The Institute for Global Ethics,was invited to give a series of interactive presentations toseveral groups at Clairbourn, which included a detailedbriefi ng on the latest research related to core values, ethicaldilemmas, and effective strategies for resolving them.In her presentations, Paula focused on the ethical challengesof daily life where gray areas abound. Gray areas,she explained, often appear to be good vs. good dilemmas.For instance, what do you do if a friend swears youto secrecy and then tells you they’re planning to do somethingharmful? Isn’t that a gray-area dilemma, where youknow you should keep your word, but you also know it isimportant to prevent someone from doing harm? Withouttelling participants what to think, Paula worked with themto develop the critical thinking skills necessary to navigategray areas, and build awareness about the world-wideimportance of this topic.The school’s administrative team met fi rst with Paula andexplored many of the issues facing young people today.Later, she met with the faculty, trustees, and parents. In herfi nal presentation, she led a middle school discussion onethical decision-making. The students were asked to breakinto groups and come up with a skit where they would actout an ethical dilemma involving peer pressure. Ms. Mirksuggested how easy it can be for someone to buy themselvesa few moments to help make a good decision. If agroup is pressuring someone, it is often possible for thatperson to excuse themselves to the bathroom, say they’regoing to get a drink of water, or even tie their shoe so theyhave a moment to think and come up with an appropriateresponse.As Clairbourn students move on into leadership positionsor the board rooms of tomorrow, this early exposureto ethical decision-making promises to be an invaluablecomponent towards establishing the health and well beingof our communities, environment, and the world.The cost of this two-day consultation, seminar, and evening talk was paid forby the Robert Nafie Endowment for Continued Excellence at Clairbourn School.Paula Mirk engaged the assembled middle-schoolers with a PowerPointpresentation and excercises designed to develop clear and logical ethicalreasoning skills.Middle Schoolers broke into groups to work out ethical dilemmas.12 BRANCHING OUT SPRING 2008

Construction is entering the fi nal stages for the SeiterFamily Early Childhood Center. The past fewmonths have seen many exciting elements of the projecttake shape, including construction of the main building,pouring of the walkways and concrete slabs, andinstallation of the play equipment. On May 20 th , a sneakpeekribbon-cutting ceremony and party was held for theClairbourn community. In addition, work has begun onthe Zubchevich Trellis Theater—an outdoor stage wherestudents can express themselves by putting on all kinds ofcreative performances. Many thanks to Nancy and KeithZubchevich for stepping up to fund this important editionto the preschool play yard.seiter centerUPDATEConcrete being poured for the building’s foundation in August of 2007.By early April 2008, the exterior of the main structure was completed, and concrete walkways and the foundation for the rubber play surface were poured.By mid-April 2008, construction began on the Zubchevich Trellis Theater.Architect’s rendering of the Zubchevich Trellis Theater.SPRING 2008 BRANCHING OUT13

spotlightON SUCCESSEighth Grade Design Challenge Winners: (From left to right) Erick Snyder& Jonathan Kwong—3 rd place; Alex Law & Daniel Mock—1 st place andOverall Contest Winners; Carly Mann & Jenny Torres—2 nd place; holdingthe perpetual trophy in the center is Middle School science teacher, CynthiaNayor, and on the far right in the back row is Fifth Grade teacher and fellowcoordinator of Project Star, Jonathan Barner.PROJECT STAR’S ENGINEERING DESIGN CHALLENGEWINNERS: Known as the most thrilling academic eventat Clairbourn, this year’s Engineering Design Challengeenabled the third through eighth-graders to literally go thedistance in applying their science and creative skills. Theirchallenge was to build a two-axel device that could travelthe furthest distance in a straight path when released fromthe top of a ramp. Students were given identical bags ofmaterials containing items, such as rubber bands, playingcards, bamboo skewers, hot glue, masking tape, andmore, with which to construct their device. In the qualifyinground of the competition, each student’s design was putto the test. While many didn’t make it very far down theramp, everyone had fun brainstorming and constructingtheir vehicles. The competition for the fi nalists was helda few days later at the school’s Science Fair. Parents andstudents showed up to cheer for their favorite vehicles,view the “Clairbourn Experiments” presentation boards,and hear a brief talk on Hybrid Technology from RichardChacon of General Motors.PROJECT STAR’S DESIGN CHALLENGE WINNERS:Eighth Grade:Alex Law & Daniel Mock – 1 st place & Overall Contest WinnersJenny Torres & Carly Mann – 2 nd placeErick Snyder & Jonathan Kwong – 3 rd placeOverall Design Challenge Winners, Daniel Mock and Alex Law, showoff their prize-winning “big wheel” vehicle.Seventh Grade:Jane Martinez & Eda Yu – 1 st placeMatt Pasqualetto & Jamir Dorsey – 2 nd placeChristine Urquhart & Katie Price – 3 rd placeSixth Grade:Luke Palmer & Aaron Han – 1 st placeJennifer Langen & Emily Gifford – 2 nd placeSarah Lundegard & Arin Phillips – 3 rd placeFifth Grade:Michael Ibarra & Alex Stamos – 1 st placeJay Lam & Carter Ossman – 2 nd placeNicholas Merritt & Matthew Soulanille – 3 rd placeCurrent parent, Mike Christensen (far right), and his foursome were thewinners of the Golf Tournament.Fourth Grade:Sharon Chow & Electra Williams – 1 st placeHarrison Fitch & Thea McKay – 2 nd placeArthur Chang & Ross Chase – 3 rd place14 BRANCHING OUT SPRING 2008

spotlightON SUCCESSGOLF TOURNAMENTThis past October, Clairbourn families and friends gatheredfor a day of fun and friendly competition at theBrookside Golf Course for the annual Cougar ClassicGolf Tournament. The weather was spectacular witheveryone playing their best. Clairbourn parent, MikeChristensen, and his foursome won the tournament.Online Services Director, Lynda Beckstrom, won the women’sputting contest, and Clairbourn alum, Mike Brown,won the men’s putting contest. Many thanks to Event Chair,Paul Callahan, for organizing such a successfulCFA event, and additional thanks go to the Christensenfamily for generously sponsoring fi ve foursomes insupport of the event.DOOR OF HOPEOnce again, the Clairbourn community came through lastFebruary with generous donations of pocket change for thesecond grade’s Door of Hope community service project.In Chapel on Valentine’s Day, the students presented TimPeters, Director of the Door of Hope, with an oversizedcheck for $1,670. Mr. Peters was very grateful for theopportunity to speak about the organization at Chapel,and to accept the donation which will support efforts toprovide transitional housing for homeless two-parent familiesand single mothers with children. Special commendationgoes to second-grader, Emily Su, who raised an additional$172 in pocket change for the Door of Hope fromrelatives at her birthday party the following weekend.CLAIRBOURN SYMPHONY DEBUTSParents and students were treated to a Coffee Concertthis winter by Music Teacher, Rosemary Kiertzner. Herfourth, fi fth, and Middle School students, on string andwind instruments, each took turns showcasing their talentsby playing selections of traditional folk songs, Beethoven’s“Ode To Joy,” and a Bach minuet. For the grand fi nale,all the performers came together to debut the ClairbournOrchestra, delivering a moving rendition of “Pirates ofthe Caribbean” by Klaus Badelt and arranged by MusicDirector, Rosemary Kiertzner.SPRING 2008 BRANCHING OUTMany thanks to Clairbourn parent, Paul Callahan (far left), who was theorganizing chair of this year’s Golf Tournament.Mr. Tim Peters, director of Door of Hope, is presented a check by secondgradersJean-Jean Ng, Emily Su, and Natalia Ramirez.From left to right: Fourth graders Paul Callahan and Mary Farley playthe clarinet, and Emily Serhan and Jessica Miller play fl ute in the windssection.15

spotlightON SUCCESSThe student council displayed at Chapel the care packages they preparedfor soldiers in Iraq.Clairbourn’s 2007/2008 Championship Football team.The 2008 Championship Soccer Team: Back Row, left to right: SagarVaidyanathan, Calvin Lu, and Coach Paciorek. Second Row, left to right:Daniel Garcia, Arman Aivazian, Jeff Garavaglia, Eric Bocanegra, andCorey Jung. Front row, left to right: Cole Moffat, Matt Friedland, HarrisonJung, Jamir Dorsey, and Doug Topping.MIDDLE SCHOOLERS SEND CARE PACKAGES TOSOLDIERS OVERSEAS Student council members weremotivated this spring to do something to help soldiers inIraq. Following up on a parent tip about a website calledwww.AnySoldier.com, the student council mobilized theentire Middle School to participate in a care packageprogram. Students went online and selected 18 soldiersand began shopping for items on their wish list. Theythen carefully packed and sorted them for shipment. AnySoldier is the brain child of Sergeant Brian Horn fromLaPlata, Maryland, who saw a need for soldiers whodidn’t get any mail to receive symbols of care from thehome front. Along with the requested items of toiletries,dried fruit, blankets, and other items, students tucked handwrittennotes of encouragement into many of the packagesso the soldiers would know people are thinking of them.Two soldiers have already written back to the studentsexpressing their gratitude.BOYS FOOTBALL TEAM WINS LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIPThe 2007 Football Team continued their winning streakfrom last year, making it the third win in four years. It wasanother fi ne team effort thanks to Sagar Vaidyanathan,Calvin Lu, Arman Aivazian, Doug Topping, Corey Jung,Alan Chang, Eric Bocanegra, Jeff Garavalia, AngusMcKay, Steve Agajanian, Alex Law, Erick Snyder,and Melieck Robinson (not in Picture). Jeff Garavaglia,Alan Chang, Angus Mckay, and Steve Agajanian wereselected as the MVPs of the team.BOYS SOCCER TEAM WINS LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIPThe Soccer team had a great season, thanks to the effortand dedication of all the players. Michael Doll, HarrisonJung, Calvin Lu, and Sagar Vaidyanathan were outstandingon defense. Jamir Dorsey, Doug Topping, Corey Jung,and Cole Moffatt were magnifi cent in the mid-fi eld. AndDaniel Garcia, Eric Bocanegra, and Mathew Friedlandwere the main scoring threats at forward positions. JeffGaravaglia was also named the League’s most effectivegoalie. Jeff Garavaglia, Eric Bocanegra, Corey Jung, andCole Moffatt were named as MVPs.16 BRANCHING OUT SPRING 2008

spotlightON SUCCESSBUNDLES OF BOOKS BENEFIT MARYVALEKicking off the school year’s calendar of community serviceprojects, sixth-graders collected and delivered over 1,400books through a BookEnds book drive for the Maryvaleresidential treatment center for abused girls in Rosemead.Maryvale needed a library for its 75 young residents, sothey partnered with BookEnds—a non-profi t organizationwhich empowers kids through student-run book drives thathelp develop libraries for schools and youth organizations(www.bookends.org).The book drive began with BookEnds teaching theClairbourn students about community service and the manyorganizations in the area that need books. They were thengiven instructions on how to run a successful book drive,including ideas for making posters and announcementsat Chapel, as well as how to collect, sort, and pack thebooks. When the books were delivered to the treatmentcenter, students spent quality time reading with the Maryvaleresidents in small groups. Many students found that theywere deeply moved by interacting with these children,and it drove home the importance of understanding andserving the needs of others in the community.Sixth grade students Laura Lundegard, Kylie Salkin, and Emily Giffordworked as a team to sort and pack books collected during the book drivefor the Maryvale library.Aaron Samuelson reads to two young Maryvale residents during the bookdrive for the Maryvale library.SPRING 2008 BRANCHING OUTEbony Martin counted and sorted books with her fellow students during thebook drive for the Maryvale library.17

spotlightON SUCCESSTWO FIFTH GRADE STUDENTS NAMED ESSAY CONTESTWINNERS Ronni Carbajal-Cuccia and Raymond Chungwere honored this winter by Mayor Matthew Lin, M.D.,at a San Marino City Council meeting for their winningessays on the topic of the importance of libraries. Theessay contest was created by the Crowell Public Library’sBoard of Trustees to celebrate the new San Marinolibrary’s January 26 th grand opening. Both students andtheir fellow fi fth-grade classmates entered the contest,along with 1,600 area students. Of that number, only 50students were chosen as winners. In addition to attendingthe opening ceremony for the library, essay winners andtheir families gathered at City Hall on February 13 th toreceive certifi cates, special awards, and to have theirpicture taken with the mayor. The winning essays werethen displayed for several months in the Crowell Library’scommunity room.Mayor Matthew Lin, M.D., gave Raymond Chung the honor of sitting in themayor’s chair to display the winning Fifth Place Award Certificate during theCity Council Meeting at San Marino City Hall.Library Trustees, Marilyn Peck and Gene Weisenberg, presented a SpecialMerit Award to fifth-grader Ronni Carbajal-Cuccia at San Marino City Hall.CFA HOLIDAY GIVING REACHES $11,000Parents, Lisa Dietle and Liana Lee, were this year’s chairsfor the Clairbourn Families Association Holiday GivingProgram, which raised $11,000 worth of goods forneedy area families. The project began with Clairbourneighth-graders participating in the Foothill Unity Center’sThanksgiving food drive. In addition, Clairbourn familieswere encouraged to help provide Christmas gifts for needychildren. Paper angels with descriptions of each child’sdream gift were displayedon a Christmas tree by thetransportation pavilion, andby the end of the project,300 angels had beenfulfi lled. An additional giftof a book from a localpublisher was also providedto each child. Thanks to theparticipation in the HolidayGiving project, one-third ofCFA Holiday Giving Chair, LisaDietle, and Assistant Chair, LianaLee, display some of the giftsdonated by Clairbourn families forthe Holiday Giving program.the Foothill Unity Center’sneedy families wereprovided for by Clairbourn’sefforts.18 BRANCHING OUT SPRING 2008

cfa activitiesON CAMPUSCFA volunteers, Denise Barrera and Lynn Jung, pass out delicioussandwiches on the Subway Special Lunch Day.Scrip Chairs, Sue Codiga and Julie Khoe, helped Clairbourn families raiseclose to $20,000 for the school through the sale of scrip.(From left to right) Lynn Jung and Denise Bieker check out the ClairbournCaddyshack Spring Benefit Booth manned by CFA chair, Anna Merrit.Volunteers worked to assemble the Sugar Plum holiday gifts for students on the Brenninkmeijer’s dining table.(From left to right) Wendy Brenninkmeijer, Liz Kwong, Elizabeth Serhan, and Jean Liu-Mullane.SPRING 2008 BRANCHING OUTAmong those helping to staffthis year’s bookfair were RoseEmeterio-Wen and CFA president,Mary Beth Nelson.19

mothers’ visitingDAYSecond-grader, Alexandra Medina,and her mother, Laura Medina.Second-grader, Jean-Jean Ng, and her mother, Shan Chan.Taylor Marks, and her mother,Jane Marks, enjoy a fifth-gradecomputer class.First-grader, Justin Han, and hismother, Candy Zong.Pre-kindergartner, Gavin Oceguera, and his mother, Jennifer Oceguera, put on a puppet show.20 BRANCHING OUT SPRING 2008

mothers’visitingDAYClairbourn mom, Lisa Bennett Garrison, and her first grade daughter,Summer.Fifth-grader, Cameron Wen, and his mother, Rose Emeterio-Wen,in computer class.Third-grader, Keeby Tie, competes against his mother, Renee Tie, in aguessing game conducted by teacher, Sharon Sinclair.First-graders sang “A – You’re Adorable” complete with sign-language for the mothers at Chapel.SPRING 2008 BRANCHING OUT21

father’s visitingDAYFourth-grader, Anil Nankani, and his dad, Sean Nankani.Seventh grade twins, Britni and Krista Meaglia, and their dadRichard Meaglia.Clairbourn dad, Phillip Stirling, played the bass drum along side his son,Cole, in the kindergarten music class.Isahn Shoemake works on a project with his daughter, Ashley,a seventh-grader.First-grader, Xian Shively, sharesa fun classroom project with hisfather, Orrin Shively.Third-grader, Oren Wei, get’s a big hug from his dad, Hongsheng Wei.Tad Yukana was SamanthaPearson’s special guest for Father’sVisiting Day.22 BRANCHING OUT SPRING 2008

grandparents’visitingDAYFourth-grader, Nicholas Khang, and his grandmother, Seung Kyung Kim.Grandparent, James Darrow, gives his granddaughter, Alyssa, a big hugin her first grade classroom.Fourth-grader, Harrison Hartfield, and his grandfather, Bill Hartfield.Third-grader, Christine Hung, with her grandmother, Audrey Huang, andmother, Lynn Huang, in music class.SPRING 2008 BRANCHING OUTGrandmother, Marilyn Guyer, andher granddaughter, Claire, who isin pre-kindergarten.Sixth-grader, Kai Dorsey, and hergrandmother, Lela Ayers.23

alumniDINNER & SPEAKER EVENTClairbourn alum, Cynthia (Siegmund) Shapiro ‘82, was the speaker at this year’s alumni dinner and speaker event. She delivered a talk on“Insider Secrets to Career Success” to a mixed audience of alumni, current parents, friends, faculty, and staff.ALUMNI DINNER AND SPEAKER EVENTIn January, the Clairbourn Alumni Association hosteda special talk by “America’s Career Coach” andinternationally best-selling author, Cynthia Shapiro.She spoke on the topic of “Insider Secrets to CareerSuccess,” covering how to obtain job security, how to getpromoted, and how to get paid top dollar. Alums andspecial guests were treated to a buffet dinner followed bya Q&A session with Shapiro. Over 30 copies of Shapiro’sbook Corporate Confidential: 50 Secrets Your CompanyDoesn’t Want You To Know And What To Do About Themwere given away as prizes to the audience.Alden Kiertzner ‘99 with his guest, Brittany Hampton.24BRANCHING OUT SPRING 2008

alumniDINNER & SPEAKER EVENTAllison Knight ‘98* with Hilary Hynek ‘96* and guest.Craig Rousselot ‘68* with his wife, Tracy.Yoshiko Tamaoki ‘00 and Lauren Thompson ‘00.Pearl Sun ‘96 and guest.HEAR THE ENTIRE TALKand Q&A SESSION AT:http://tinyurl.com/2smxxr. Availableas streaming audio or download onto your IPOD.Neil Jurgensen ‘97* Nico Cifarelli ‘97*SPRING 2008 BRANCHING OUT25

alumniSPOTLIGHTJENNAI TAYLOR ‘99 was recently recognized forher outstanding accomplishments on the Principia CollegeWomen’s Soccer Team in the NCAA Div. III Nationals TopTen Rankings for women’s soccer. She placed #1 in thenation in points per game (3.2), #5 in assists per game(0.93), and #9 in goals per game (1.133) in the NCAADivision III women’s soccer competition. Taylor was alsonamed Co-Player of the Year in conference play. Jennaiwas also named to the SLIAC academic all-conferenceteam, the NSCAA (National Soccer Coaches Associationof America) Central Region All-Scholar team, and earneda 4.0/4.0 grade point average for the fall. In addition,her team received the NSCAA Team Academic Awardwith a team GPA of 3.58/4.0—eighth highest nationally,the SLIAC team sportsmanship award for the secondconsecutive year, and the NSCAA Gold Ethics Awardfor competing the entire season without receivinga yellow or red card—one of 5 programs nationwideto be so recognized.JENNAI TAYLOR ‘99 was recognized for heroutstanding accomplishments on the PrincipiaCollege Women’s Soccer Team by the NCAADivision III Nationals Top Ten Rankings inwomen’s soccer.26 BRANCHING OUT SPRING 2008

alumniSPOTLIGHTBRIANA SWINNEY ‘06 shown with Alejandra Vasquez ‘06 andCaley Moffatt at the Young Alumni Holiday Party.BRIANA SWINNEY ‘06 is a sophomore atFlintridge Sacred Heart Academy. During freshman year,she swam on the FSHA Varsity Swim Team, which hadan undefeated season and became the Mission LeagueChamps. Setting a new school record in the 100-yardbackstroke, Briana was one of fi ve Sacred Heart CIFDivision II qualifi ers and a fi nalist in both of her individualevents. She also swam on two relay teams that capturedfi rst place in the 400-Free Relay and the 200-Medley Relayat CIF fi nals. Briana and her three relay teammates weredubbed the “Fab Four” in one of the many newspaperarticles written about them. The team ended their verysuccessful season by capturing the runner-up title inDivision II.GABBY CHAN ‘09* has been studying and practicingon the Chinese harp for six years, performing at fundraisers,cultural festivals, and most recently for the Clairbournsecond-graders as part of their classroom Chinese NewYear celebration. Students were enchanted by the soundsand vibrations of the harp as Gabby played “The Moon isin My Heart”, “Oh, Susanna”, and “Mongolian Dance.”GABBY CHAN ‘09* performed on her Chinese harp forClairbourn’s second-graders.After her performance, students asked many questionsabout the unusual looking instrument. Gabby currentlyattends Westridge school and was elected student bodypresident of the lower school last year. In addition, shevolunteers on the Youth Board of Advisors for a non-profi torganization called You Think Well—a writing center thathas kids write, illustrate,and publish books for profi tthat help build water wellsin Africa. Gabby alsorecently participated in a“Save Darfur” bake salewith fellow alumna, RitaGrosbard ‘09*. Gabbyspends her spare timepracticing the harp, playinggolf, dancing, reading,sketching, exploring life,and hanging out withfriends.GABBY CHAN’S parents, Johnand Cathoza Chan came byto watch the performance andcheer her on.SPRING 2008 BRANCHING OUT 27

alumniSPOTLIGHTLiam’s family moved to a workingapple farm, complete withchickens, in 2005.LIAM BRONKAR ‘08*, shown playing on his drum kit above, has been exploring his musical talentsover the past three years and won his school’s highest music award in addition to the First Chairposition in the San Luis Obispo County Honor Band.LIAM BRONKAR ‘08* attended Clairbourn fromkindergarten to the middle of fi fth grade when he movedin 2005 with his family to Templeton, California—a townof 3,600 people. The family now lives on an 80-acreapple farm complete with chickens, cats, horses, andcows. In addition to apples, they also grow pears, plums,and lavender. Since moving, Liam and his sister, Samatha‘09,* quickly made many new friends and have done wellacademically. Both are in advanced placement classesand have been on the honor roll for the last two years.Additionally, Samantha made the Principal’s List. Theirmother, Carolyn Bronkar, reports, “Clairbourn preparedthem in many ways to really excel in Templeton. The veryfi rst week of school when I talked to Liam’s fi fth gradeteacher, she told me she was amazed that he had beenwilling, as a new student, to get up in front of the classand write on the board to explain a math concept. I thankClairbourn for that.”Liam excels in music, and he played alto sax in the schoolband, comprised of 120 students, during the sixth andseventh grades. Now he has transitioned into playingdrums. This last year, he won the Tim Park MemorialAward from Templeton Middle School, which is the highestmusical award obtainable from the school. Liam alsoplays classical piano, has taught himself to play electricand bass guitar, and has his own band which performedat the talent show playing original rock-type music thatLiam composed.In January of 2008, Liam auditioned for the San Luis ObispoCounty Honor Band, which is comprised of approximately85 middle and high school students. As a drummer, hemade First Chair. They will be performing at the Cal PolyPerforming Arts Center on February 20, 2008. He is alsopreparing to compete in the Drum Circuit Annual DrumSolo Competition in April.Liam plays tennis for the Templeton Eagles, and he hasa lot of fun riding his dirt bike, running track, and goingto the movies with his friends. He still is good friendswith Mitchell Reynolds ‘08* from Clairbourn, who visitsevery year. Both Liam and Samantha loved their time atClairbourn, and they say “Hi” to all of their classmates andwish them great success in all they do in the future. Liam’sfriends can reach him at joeylli@hotmail.com.28BRANCHING OUT SPRING 2008

alumniNEWSin Marketing and Business English to undergraduatestudents. Peter received his B.A. in economics from theUniversity of Southern California in 1996, and then gothis M.B.A. in management information systems from AzusaPacifi c University in 1998.Pratima (Gupta) Soper ‘88* (See Marriage NewsSection)89 Gregory Rogers ‘89* is the frontman for theband A 750ml Affair, which recently launched its debutalbum in January of 2008. The album can be heardonline at http://www.a750mlaffair.com. In addition,Greg is the president and CEO of Kettle Black Recordswhich provides production, promotion, distribution, andmerchandising services to musical artists.Kathryn (Coleman) Russell IV ‘89* is married andliving in Washington D.C. with her husband, John, andtheir two children, Bergin (four) and John (one).Jessica Morgan ’89 is living in Santa Monica andis very busy these days in the entertainment industry. Herrecent projects include: writing the premiere episode onthe topic of minimum wage for the show “30 Days” onthe F/X channel, working as the supervising producer ona travel and shopping documentary that featured MarisaTomei, writing for In Touch Magazine, appearing on theTV Guide Channel with Melissa and Joan Rivers for theGrammy and Oscar Fashion Wrap-ups as one of theirstyle experts, and she is working on two books. Jessicaalso runs a critically acclaimed website which serves updeliciously scathing red-carpet fashion critiques.90 Heather (Burns) Burns-Bianchi ‘90 (See MarriageNews Section)Kjersti Onderdonk ‘90* is living in Pomona, and is a fi rstgrade teacher at Carden Arbor View School in Upland.91 David Beebe ‘91 is working for L.W. ResearchGroup in Encino, California. David also enjoys helpingout with his friend’s DJ business called Mainline Sound andenjoys playing in a men’s basketball league in La CresentaSPRING 2008 BRANCHING OUTand Glendale, He will be furthering his education byattending Pasadena City College in the Spring of 2008.92 Jenny (Greenway)Krempasky ‘92* is a registerednurse at CommunityHospital of the MontereyPeninsula. Her husband,Todd, is a realtor and homedesigner, and they’ve beenmarried for six-and-a-halfyears. The couple lives inMonterey and recently bought and restored a Victorianhome. Jenny attended UC Santa Cruz for college, andthen went on to attend the Maurine Church Coburn Schoolof Nursing, graduating in 2005.93 Jeff Seeker ‘93* lives in Litchfi eld Park, Arizona, withhis wife, Jamie, and two children. He received a degree incommunications from USD in 2001 and went to SyracuseUniversity to get his master’s in journalism. Currently, Jeffis the managing editor for CSTV—a 24/7 college sportsnetwork that delivers content on cable/satellite TV and onthe web.94 Grant Garlock ‘94 is a senior analyst forIndyMac Bank, and lives in Pasadena, California.Samantha Gaw ‘94* is back in Arcadia after receivingher Ed.M. degree from the Harvard Graduate School ofEducation. She is currently at UCLA getting her doctoratein psychological studies in education.Jasmine Joshi ‘94 came to Clairbourn’s alumni dinnerand speaker event “Insider Secrets to Career Success” inJanuary of this year. At the dinner, she shared that shegraduated at the top of her class at Loyola Law School inMay of 2007 and passed the California Bar. She also willbe getting married in May of 2008 and will be movingto Cleveland.Reena (Vishwanath) Thomas ‘94 married Ahmad Thomasin Santa Barbara in August of 2007. They met asundergraduates at Cornell University. Ahmad works as an31

alumniNEWSDallas, Texas, after graduating with a B.S. in accountingfrom Southern Methodist University in May of 2006.Brittany Hafen ’98* and her brothers, Jansen ’01* andLandon, posed for a Christmas card picture that was sentto Clairbourn this past December. Their mother, StaceyHafen, taught at Clairbourn for many years before thefamily moved to Connecticut. (See photo on left).Landon, Brittany, and Jansen Hafen live in Connecticut.economic legislation advisor for Senator Diane Feinstein,and Reena is in her third year studying neurology atGeorgetown School of Medicine. They now live inWashington D.C. on Capitol Hill.Jennifer Vu ‘94* is back in Los Angeles after getting hercollege and master’s degrees on the East Coast. Now sheis at UCLA, working towards her Ph.D. in education with afocus on early childhood education and development.95 Captain Christopher Kim, USMC, ‘95* is a companycommander stationed at the Kaneohe Marine Corps Basein Hawaii. He returned from Iraq in late July of 2007.Adam Libman ‘95 attended Clairbourn’s alumni dinnerand speaker event “Insider Secrets to Career Success” inJanuary of this year. While there, he shared the good newsthat he recently fi nished his exams to become a C.P.A.97 Cassandra (C.C.) Funsten ‘97 is currently living inEurope—sometimes in Italy and sometimes in Scotland.She plans to work in Edinburgh and take classes there inthe future.Alexis (Casillas) Segal ‘97 (See Marriage NewsSection)Amanda Thorson ‘97 is living in Alhambra, California,and after obtaining a B.A. in urban studies from LoyolaMarymount University in 2005. She went on to receive amaster of planning degree from USC in 2007.98 Harris Bristol ‘98 is working for Ernst & Young, LLP inMatthew Mihlon ‘98* graduated from St. John’sCollege in Annapolis in 2005. He is now a third-year lawstudent at the University of Chicago and will be practicingin Seattle for the law fi rm Karr Tuttle Campbell.Tyler Schultz ‘98 received a business administrationdegree from the University of San Diego in May of 2006,and now works for CB Richard Ellis as a commercial realestate appraiser in Newport Beach.99 Lauren Martinez ‘99 is pursuing acting and fi nishingup her graduate work at USC.Kolapo Odujinrin ‘99*, a member of Sigma Nufraternity, graduated in May of 2007 from USC with adegree in business administration. He now lives in SanJose and works for Yahoo! as a business operationsanalyst.Jennai Taylor ‘99 (See Alumni Spotlight Section)Stephen Ullom ’99 graduated from UC Davis with adegree in engineering in May of 2007.Rahul Vishwanath ‘99* is in his fi nal year of studyingmechanical engineering at Columbia University.00 Allison Cole ‘00 is working as an estheticianspecializing in skin-care needs at the Amadeus Spa onGreen Street in Pasadena. Anyone wishing to indulgein the spa’s famous Maui Salt Glow body buffs, solarbronzing, and rosemary-mint awakening wraps can goto www.amadeusspa.com to book an appointment withAllison.Lauren Quezada ‘00 is a senior at Loyola MarymountUniversity. She is currently published on the topic of DNA32 BRANCHING OUT SPRING 2008

alumniNEWSencoding in UC Riverside’s engineering journal calledLangmuir. In addition to attending biology conferences onboth coasts, last summer Lauren attended the ResearchExperience for Undergraduates program at UC Riverside.Kelsey Lyon ‘00* is asenior at Principia Collegein Elsah, Illinois, studyingsociology. In the Fall of2007, she traveled toRajasthan, India, on an eightweek anthropological studyabroad program. Kelseystopped by Clairbourn’sbooth at the Principia JobFair this last February to sayhello to everyone here at theschool.Yoshiko Tamaoki ‘00 is a senior at Clarement McKennaCollege where she is dual majoring in mathematics andeconomics. After graduation, she plans to look for workthat utilizes her quantitative and analytical skills. Yoshikoalso attended Clairbourn’s alumni dinner and speakerevent “Insider Secrets to Career Success” in January ofthis year.Haley Windsor ‘00 has been working for three yearsin commercial and residential design. She now worksas the design director for Images Design-Environments—a company in Coast Mesa that combines architecture,interior design, and landscape into its projects. To seeHaley’s online bio and company projects, check out thecompany website at: www.imagesdesigns.net.02 Diana Dou ‘02 is a sophomore at the CaliforniaInstitute of Technology and is in her second year playingfor the Caltech Women’s Basketball NCAA DivisionIII Team. She also reports that she is a member of theBiotechnology Club Executive Board that is currentlyworking on organizing a speaker series, and she iscontinuing her music hobby through the chamber musicgroups on campus.SPRING 2008 BRANCHING OUTKelsey Lyon ‘00 is now a seniorat Principia College.Andy Taylor ‘02 is at the University of Portlandstudying political science and entrepreneurship. As part ofAmerican University’s Washington Semester Program, heis spending the spring in Washington D.C. taking classesin U.S. foreign policy and interning with Congressman,Mike McCaul, from Texas. The following semester heplans to visit Ankara, Turkey.03 Blake Anderson ‘03 is attending ASU as acommunications major and loves sharing his apartmentstyledorm with three of his friends. He received his EagleScout Award this last summer, and for his Eagle project heput together a survival container to accommodate about15 families at the Ronald McDonald House in Pasadena.Brooke Bennett *03 is a freshman at Amherst College,and earlier this year she became a founding memberof the Amherst College Quidditch team which playedMiddlebury College on national television this spring. Shewore a purple cape and rode a broomstick. Quidditchis the sport made famous at the Hogwarts School ofWitchcraft and Wizardry in the Harry Potter books.Colette Chen ‘03* won the Mixed Doubles Award andthe Girls Singles Award in 2007 for Badminton onPolytechnic’s Varsity Team.Jessica Elmore ‘03 worked during the Summer of2007 as a preschoolteacher for Clairbourn. Sheis currently a freshman atPrincipia College majoringin education and theater,and is part of the Principiadance team.Stephen Lamb ‘03* wasselected as one of twostudents, in 2007, to receivethe Head of School Awardfor contributing to all areasof school life and best livingthe ideals of PolytechnicSchool.Jessica Elmore ‘03 stopped bywith a friend at Clairbourn’s boothduring the Principia College JobFair in February of 2008.33

alumniNEWSSalim Moore ‘03 received the Goss Family Effort Award atPolytechnic’s 2007 graduation ceremony for his superiorefforts in academic pursuits, as well as other areas ofschool life.Leah Pipes ‘03 is starring in a new TV show called “Lifeis Wild” about a girl whose veterinarian father movesthe family from New York City to live on a game reservein South Africa. The show airs on Sundays on the CWnetwork.Rob Rasmussen ‘03* was named Team Co-MPV and Prepleague Co-MVP, in addition to winning the PolytechnicVarsity Baseball Sports Award for the 2007 season.Christopher Riboli ‘03 is attending Gonzaga Universityin Spokane, Washington. He is living in an “outdoor life”themed dorm that has trips planned all year, such as whitewater rafting and camping. Christopher was also awardedEagle Scout this last summer, and for his project he puttogether a run/walk for the Lance Armstrong Foundation.Abigail Urquhart ‘03 (center) at Clairbourn’s Thanksgiving Chapel with hermother, Mary (center), and sister, Christine (right).Annie Thorne ‘03*, Kate Thorne ‘03*, and Katie Davis‘03* were debutantes at the Las Madrinas Ball at theBeverly Hilton Hotel in December of 2007. The eventhonored their community service work that supportspediatric medicine at Childrens Hosptial in SouthernCalifornia.Abigail Urquhart ‘03 visited Clairbourn’s morning Chapelwith her family while she was home on Thanksgiving breakfrom Washington and Lee College.04 David Allen ‘04 was recruited for Tulane University’sfootball team as a linebacker. Tulane’s campus waswrecked by Hurricane Katrina several years ago, but nowall the sports facilities have been completely rebuilt makingTulane a great choice for athletics. David is currently asenior at South Pasadena High School.RMAX Goodwin ‘04 was named, by Magic magazine, asone of sixteen teenagers in the world who are consideredoutstanding rising stars of magic. The candidates werejudged not only on their magic tricks, but also for theirAbove: Lindsay Butcher ‘05 and Rebecca Franks ‘05 at Clairbourn’sThanksgiving Chapel. Below: Lindsay Butcher ‘05 and Rebecca Franks‘05 visit with teachers, Cynthia Naylor and Cara and Paul Barker.34 BRANCHING OUT SPRING 2008

alumniNEWSonstage skills and community activity. Check out theSeptember 2007 issue at www.magicmagazine.com.RMAX is currently a senior at Flintridge Prep.Jazmin Quimiro ‘04 reports “I am a varsity cheerleaderfor Don Bosco Tech, and I was recently named captain ofmy team. In February of 2007, I performed in the pregameand half-time shows at the Pro Bowl in Honolulu, Hawaii.”She currently attends Alverno High School.Jordan Randall ‘04* played on Flintridge Prep’s varsityBoys’ Water Polo Team which made it to the CIF DivisionVI playoff. Jordan is a senior at Flintridge Prep.Alex Reitnouer ‘04 signed with Washington State to playon their football team in the Fall of 2008. Alex is a senior atSt. Francis and played as an offensive/defensive linemanfi nishing the season with 38 tackles and two sacks.Scott Studenmund ‘04*, a senior at Flintridge Prep, wasnamed one of the top four defenders on the Rebels VarsityFootball Team. The team had a 4-1 record this year andplaced second in the League. Scott was also named oneof 16 National Merit Semi-fi nalists at Flintridge Prep.Molly Taylor ‘04 is a senior at Sacred Heart and is makingcollege plans. She has been accepted to DePaul Universityin Chicago and Franklin College in Lugano, Switzerland.05 Alexandra Baptiste ‘05 had a strong season onthe Flintridge Prep Girls’ Volleyball Team this year, leadingin kills, blocks, and digs on the court.Lindsay Butcher ‘05 and Rebecca Franks ‘05took a break from Mayfi eld Senior to visit Clairbourn’sThanksgiving service in November of 2007. Afterwards,they visited with teachers, Cynthia Naylor and Cara andPaul Barker.Sarah Chen ‘05* was selected as one of 38 womento participate in the Mount Holyoke College LeadershipProgram called “Take the lead.” She traveled to theircampus in South Hadley, Massachusetts for four daysof workshops and activities that covered mentoring,leadership, and social activism. Sarah is a junior atPolytechnic.Tammy Newman ‘05 is taking drama and performedin the play The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie at Polytechnicin November of 2007.Cameron Raidy ‘05 received the Polytechnic Team Co-Coach Award for the JV Boys’ Volleyball 2007 season.Connor Verreaux ‘05, now a junior at Flintridge Prep,is on the All-Area Boys’ Cross Country First Team. He seta new League record at the Flintridge Prep track meet inOctober for Boys’ Cross Country. He also fi nished secondat the CIF Southern Section Finals at Mt. San AntonioCollege in November of 2007.06 Brent Bennett ‘06 traveled to China with a delegationof students from The Cate School to study how traditionalChinese art forms are evolving in modern China.The group toured the 798 Arts District, a massive complexof galleries and studios where contemporary artistsare gathering, traveled to the 2008 Olympics site,visited the four-story exhibition facility of Beijing’s PlanningDepartment, danced with Tibetan students, and met withuniversity students at the Dongfang International Center forEducational Exchange and Minzu University in Beijing.Frederik Bossaert ‘06* and Majanka Bossaerts ‘08*,are now living permanently in Switzerland with theirmom, Betty, and dad, Peter, who is now a professor atthe Swiss Federal Institute of Technology after 17 years atCaltech. Frederik and Majanka are attending BrillantmontInternational School in Lausanne and now speak French—making them tri-lingual—in addition to English andFlemish. They are taking Aikido, playing soccer, skiing,and snowboarding often. The family can be reached atbettycallens@mac.com.We want to hear from you! Please send us yournews through the Alumni website at http://alumni.Clairbourn.org or e-mail Nancy Ward at alumni@clairbourn.org.SPRING 2008 BRANCHING OUT35

alumniNEWSChloe Mackey ‘06 came to Chapel in December of ‘07.Chloe Mackey ‘06 stopped by to say “Hi” to all herClairbourn friends at Chapel in December of 2007.Matthew Nakatani ‘06* is living in Shelbyville,Kentucky where he plays varsity football and soccer atShelby County High School. He also plays soccer forthe Javanon Soccer Club which is currently ranked in thenation’s top 50. He reports, “I am really into kicking forthe football team at the moment. I’m going to go to kickingcamps to solidify my spot for a scholarship to play football.I’ve been in touch with schools such as South Carolina,Auburn, Oregon, San Diego State, and UCLA.”Alec Storrie-Lombardi ‘06 received the 2007 JoeMiller Outstanding Lineman award at Flintridge Prep’sFootball Banquet in Feb 2007.Briana Swinney ‘06 (See Alumni Spotlight)Kimberly Thompson ‘06, Alejandra Vasquez‘06, Kim Combs ‘07, and Rachel Wilson ‘07came back to Clairbourn this past fall to represent Mayfi eldHigh School at the High School Information Night.Justin Farshidi ‘07 and Phillip Samuelson came by for a Chapel visitin January.07 Kristen Clark ‘07 made the Varsity Tennis Teamat Maranatha and reports that she is loving her experiencethere.Hannah Davich ‘07 chose to spend her day offfrom high school volunteering in the JPK classrooms atClairbourn in October. Way to go Hannah!Blake Dawn ‘07 and Eddie Brewer ‘07 spenta morning in mid-January on the Clairbourn campusvolunteering with the P.E. classes. Thanks guys!Hope McMorrow ‘07 assisted with Clairbourn’s fi rstgrade fi eld trip to the California Home for the Deaf inDecember of 2007. Hope is a student of American SignLanguage at Maranatha, and helped the students practicetheir sign language letters and spell their names on the buson the way to the facility. Hope also plays JV Volleyball atMaranatha, and her team won the League Championshipin the Fall of 2007.Andy Medina ‘07, now at Loyola High School,came by Clairbourn’s Chapel this fall to say hello to allhis friends. This year, Andy was a member of the Loyola36 BRANCHING OUT SPRING 2008

alumniNEWSMadison Bender ‘11* stopped by to say “Hello” to friends and attendClairbourn’s Thanksgiving service.Cubs State Champion Cross Country Team. Each memberof the team received a GIANT “super bowl” ring honoringthe team’s achievement. Way to go Andy! Come on byand show us that ring!Phillip Samuelson ‘07 and Justin Farshidi ‘07came to Chapel in January on their day off from LoyolaHigh School to see old friends and former teachers.08 Liam Bronkar ‘08* (See Alumni Spotlight)09 Gabby Chan ‘09* (See Alumni Spotlight)11 Madison Bender ‘11* and Gabriella Bacio ‘11*,now at Westridge, came by Clairbourn’s Thanksgivingservice to say hello to their former classmates.ENGAGEMENT NEWSJasmine Joshi ‘94 will be getting married in May of2008 and will be moving to Cleveland.Allison Lyzenga ‘95 is engaged to Jacob Loshin.They will be married on August 31, 2008, in Pasadena,California. The ceremony will be offi ciated by RabbiSPRING 2008 BRANCHING OUTJennifer (Rubardt) Barberie ‘88* married Corey Barberieon September 8, 2007.James Mirel of Temple B’nai Torah in Bellevue. Allison isa graduate of Claremont McKenna College, where sheearned a bachelor’s degree in international studies andFrench, and attended the University of Virginia Law Schoolfor her law degree. She is currently an attorney for the lawfi rm of Gifford & Dearing in Los Angeles. Jacob is alsoa graduate of Claremont McKenna College, where heearned a bachelor’s degree in philosophy, politics andeconomics. He received his law degree from Yale. Heis currently serving as a law clerk to Judge Jerry Smith onthe United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit inHouston, Texas.MARRIAGE NEWSJennifer (Rubardt) Barberie ‘88* married Corey Barberieon September 8, 2007 at Ponte Winery in Temecula,California. Classmates Stacey Gomez ‘88*, Tiffany (Lind)37

alumniNEWSAllison Lyzenga ‘95 and her fiancéJacob Loshin.Clairbourn teacher, Liz (Harrold) O’Toner, married Eric O’Toner on November 23 rd , 2007 in Laguna Beach,California at The Willows.Martha Cummings, formerClairbourn Preschool teacher.Jump ‘88* and Laurie (Fortier) Sarafian ‘88* were allin attendance. After a relaxing honeymoon in Maui, thecouple is now back home in Pasadena. Jennifer is anevent planner who has run her own business for the pastten years. She also enjoys being a Creative Memoriesconsultant helping people organize and preserve theirphotos. Corey is an accountant with Paramount Pictures.Jennifer can be reached at jenb@preplanevents.com.Heather Burns-Bianchi ‘90 married Dustin Bianchi at theBianchi Winery in Paso Robles, California, in August of2007. They now reside in Orange, California.Liz (Harold) O’Toner, a second grade teacher atClairbourn, married Eric O’Toner on November 23 rd ,2007.Alexis (Casillas) Segal ‘97 married Jordan Segal onJuly 7 th , 2007 in San Gabriel.Pratima (Gupta) Soper ‘88* married Englishman, JonathanHenry Bayfi eld Soper, in March of 2007. The weddingwas held in Huntington Beach, California, and wasattended by many friends and family members, includingher sister, Neelima ‘85*. The couple is now residing inSan Francisco where Pratima works as an OBGYN atKaiser Oakland. She is also the volunteer medical directorat a free clinic called the St. James Infi rmary.Reena (Vishwanath) Thomas ‘94 married Ahmad Thomasin Santa Barbara in August of 2007.FORMER FACULTY AND STAFF NEWSMartha Cummings, former Clairbourn preschool teacher,now works at the Longyear Museum in Chesnut Hill,Massachusetts. She reports, “Since moving back toMassachusetts in the Summer of 2006, I jumped intosome basic interior design classes, and they have beenwonderful. When I initially moved back, I had sometime to help my family out here and there, and then Ifound my way to the Longyear Museum in the curatorialdepartment. My area focuses on the work pertainingto the Mary Baker Eddy historic houses—everything frominteriors and exteriors to giving tours to visitors of all ages.I’m still taking some design classes and will be looking38 BRANCHING OUT SPRING 2008

alumniNEWSinto grad school with a focus on historic interior spaces/decorative arts. All that I did and learned from everyoneat Clairbourn has been invaluable, and I’m so grateful forthat experience. I know you all are doing wonderful thingsout there. Hope all is well with everyone! Hugs to all myfellow PK buds!”IN MEMORIAMSteve Fox—former Clairbourn parent. He is survived byhis wife, Jeannine, and his two sons, Allan Fox ‘99 andBryan Fox ‘04*.Ruthann Perry Fitz Gerald-Hildebrand, formerteacher at Clairbourn. Ruthann was an active member ofthe New Century Singers (formerly known as the WhittierWomen’s Chorus), and she taught at Clairbourn Schoolmany years ago. She once appeared on the televisionshow “Queen for a Day” and won a pool slide which wasdonated to the Clairbourn campus and enjoyed by manystudents over the years.Linda Wylie—former kindergarten, third grade and fi fthgrade teacher who worked at Clairbourn from 1976through 2000. She is survived by her husband, Jim, andher children, Mark Wylie ‘78 and Janet Wylie ‘81*, whoare both Clairbourn alums.Helen Houston Boileau ‘35—one of Clairbourn’s earliestgraduates from the days when the grades went throughhigh school. (See picture below).Dennis Allen, Class ‘56Alan Haas ‘59Pam Sperry Thorndike ‘66*FOR MORE INFORMATION ON YOURALUMNI FRIENDS:Log on to our website: http://alumni.clairbourn.org.Once you are registered, you can check out the latestnews on all of your Clairbourn friends!Helen Houston Boileau ‘35 appears in this graduation photo from 1935. From left to right: Virginia Gardner, Helen Houston Boileau, Lois Herring, andRuth Detrick.SPRING 2008 BRANCHING OUT39

celebritySIGHTINGSTHE 2007 YOUNG ALUMNI HOLIDAY PARTYThe Manor House was filled with holiday cheer and thejoy of connecting with old classmates at this year’s YoungAlumni Holiday Party. Over 80 alums came to this specialreunion for class years 2000 – 2007. Dr. and Mrs. Nafie,Coach John Paciorek, and Middle School Director, Amy(Beckstrom) Patzlaff, were all on hand to greet the alums.A big “thank you” goes out to all the alums listed belowthat made this event such a success!Tamara Thomas ‘07 and Pamela Nankani ‘07.Class of 2006 alums: Tim Reed, Joe Agajanian, Albert Law,Schafer Chulay, Corinne Botsford, Paige Dyrek, and Clifton Lee.Paul Cabot ‘03, Zachary Salehipour ‘03, and Tim Shu ‘03 had a greattime fl ipping through old yearbooks.Class of 2005 alums: Alexandra Baptiste, Connor Verreaux,and Christopher Samuelson.Class of 2007: (From left to right) Allison Moore, Kristen Clark,Shannon Naylor, Chelsea Cheng, and Kim Combs.40BRANCHING OUT SPRING 2008

Name:Address:City: State: Zip:E-mail: Phone:Class of: Married? Children?School attending/business or profession:News:alumniNEWS REQUESTClairbourn Alumni! We would loveto know what you are doing. Jointhe Alumni Online Community! Go tohttp://alumni.clairbourn.org or usethis card to send your inform-ation to:The Alumni OfficeClairbourn School8400 Huntington DriveSan Gabriel, CA 91775Tel: 626.286.3108Fax: 626.286.1528alumni@clairbourn.orgAll submitted digital photos shouldbe 300 dpi (jpg, tif, or pdf) orregular photos should be originalglossy 4x6 prints.(From left to right) Justin Posthuma ‘06, Peter Shu ‘05, Brent Waldo ‘05,Tony Rosado ‘05, and Christopher Samuelson ‘05Alumns from the Class of 2007 visit with Coach Paciorek: Eddie Brewer,Zach Murphy, Blake Dawn, Dylan Sasabe, Jessica Reed, DrewAnn AndrewsTim Shu ‘03, Jeffrey Wagner ‘03,and Franklin Bigelow ‘00Tammy Newman ‘05, KelseyOlafson ‘05, Anna Olafson ‘07*Jeremy Jung ‘00 and LaurenThompson ‘00Kyle-Cameron Lewis ‘00and Chris Hasbrouck ‘00SPRING 2008 BRANCHING OUT 41

opportunitiesGOLDEN GIVINGPlease let me know how I (we) may carry on ClairbournSchool’s legacy through a planned gift or bequest.I/we wish to donate $to the following funds: (please check)2007–2008 Annual Fund in supportof this year’s educational activitiesDr. Robert T. & Dr. Jane A. CheathamFamily Music Endowment FundThe Seiter Family Early ChildhoodCenter new preschool building fundAdvantage Fund supportingChristian Science studentsRobert W. Nafie Endowment Fundin support of our Headmaster’sspecial projectsName:Address:City: State: Zip:You may charge your contribution:VISA MasterCard American Express DiscoverAccount # Exp. Date:Card Signature:Current Parent Former Parent Alumni (Class of )Grandparent Friend Trustee/Faculty/StaffYou may also give online at www.clairbourn.orgFor more information about supporting Clairbourn please contact:Kristin Bennett, Development Director 626.286.3108 x121or development@clairbourn.orgThank you for your support of CLAIRBOURN SCHOOL. 8400 HUNTINGTON DRIVE SAN GABRIEL, CA 91775ALUMNI SIGHTED AT THE HOLIDAY PARTYCLASS OF 2000Franklin BigelowChris HasbrouckJeremy JungKyle-Cameron LewisLauren QuezadaLauren ThompsonCLASS OF 2001Phillip McMorrowCLASS OF 2003Rhett BarkerPaul CabotEric GuntherZachary SalehipourTimothy ShuChristine ThompsonVikram VaidyanathanJeffrey WagnerCLASS OF 2004Max DupillMollie LittleCLASS OF 2005Alexandra BaptisteJohn ClearyMaguire HaighAlexander MurphyTamara NewmanKelsey OlafsonTony RosadoChristopher SamuelsonPeter ShuHenry SotomayorConnor VerreauxBrent WaldoCLASS OF 2006Joe AgajanianAndrew BiekerCorinne BotsfordSchafer ChulayPaige DyrekAlbert LawClifton LeeAnthony LiKevin MatthewsCaley MoffattTrevor PickJustin PosthumaTim ReedEvan RobinsonBriana SwinneyKimberly ThompsonAlejandra VasquezCLASS OF 2007DrewAnn AndrewsCornell BantaEdwin BrewerConnor BullockChelsea ChengKristen ClarkKim CombsBlake DawnJake ElmoreKristin GuntherMorgan LittleJasmine ManwaniHope McMorrowAndrew MedinaSpencer MyersAllison MooreZachary MurphyPamela NankaniShannon NaylorAnna OlafsonAnna RamirezJessica ReedDarius SalehipourPhillip SamuelsonDylan SasabeKendall ShoemakeAlec ShumateIsabel SotomayorCoco StathatosTamara ThomasThomas Van SchaickLindsey WeissmanTaylor WeissmanBrandon WenRachel Wilson42BRANCHING OUT SPRING 2008

The Gardner SocietyHONORING THOSE WHO HAVE REMEMBERED CLAIRBOURN SCHOOL IN THEIR ESTATE PLANSEthel M. Gardner was instrumental inthe growth and development of ClairbournSchool for more than forty years. She cameto the school in the early 1930s, driving hertwo daughters, Virginia and Helen, all theway from Hancock Park so that they couldattend Clairbourn. Mrs. Gardner convincedher parents, Mr. and Mrs. George Platt, toprovide the school with a location of its own.In later years, Mrs. Gardner would overseethe transfer of ownership of the Sunnyslopeproperty to the school on the provision thatit remain a school in “harmony with theteachings of Christian Science.” Still later,Mrs. Gardner served on the Board of Trusteesfor the school and served as treasurer duringthe war years and the years following. Shewatched every step the school took duringher lifetime. For many years, the GardnerBuilding, which held six elementaryclassrooms, bore her name. Upon herpassing in March 1974, the school receivedword that Mrs. Ethel Platt Gardner, and herhusband, Edwin Gardner, and her sister,Nellie Platt Bailey, had all made provisionsfor the school in their wills.The Gardner Society honors the enduringguidance and support of Ethel M. Gardnerand her lasting legacy.The following Gardner Society members are thosewho have also provided for Clairbourn School intheir estate plans, leaving a lasting legacy for futuregenerations of children.Ethel M. GardnerEdwin Lewis GardnerNellie Platt BaileySally Taylor KingCarol S. ThompsonPearl M. OttJames and Paula CoburnLeanna and Walter LeonardRobert T. CheathamJane A. CheathamMarion E. BeckRobert W. and Leslie A. NafieGloria J. StahmerFrank M. McKeeWhen doing your estate planning, please considerleaving a percentage of your assets to ClairbournSchool. Charitable gifts often are opportunitiesfor tax savings. Please consult with your taxadvisor or financial planner for advice. Feel freeto contact Kristin Bennett at 626.286.3108 x121or at kbennett@clairbourn.org to learn more aboutcreating a lasting legacy at Clairbourn, or to sharethe names of those who deserve to be recognizedin The Gardner Society.SPRING 2008 BRANCHING OUT 43

alumniWEBSITEJOIN THE ONLINE ALUMNI COMMUNITY:Become an “A” list alum! The minute you graduate,people hunger for information about you—just like theydo with celebrities. Don’t disappoint your fans! Registerwith Clairbourn’s Alumni Website where you can findfriends, post pictures, and tell us about your latest news.Just go to http://alumni.clairbourn.org and register.Once approved, you can log-in and begin posting tothe website.RECENT ALUMNI WEBSITE REGISTRATIONS:CLASS OF 2007Emily CarterTaylor WeissmanSpencer MyersCLASS OF 2006Joe AgajanianAndrew BiekerPaul ShermanSarah FaulkCLASS OF 2005Lindsay ButcherAnish ParekhCLASS OF 2004Max DupillJazmin QuimiroCLASS OF 1999Rahul VishwanathCLASS OF 1997Andrew HeiningCLASS OF 1995Kurtis StraubCLASS OF 1994Grant GarlockAndrew HagerLakin SoldateCLASS YEAR 1991Daniel GilbertCLASS OF 1990Wendy (Winet) BoydCLASS OF 1987Clement ChengJoanna (Beckstrom) KibbeCLASS OF 1986Stephanie (Chandler) DencikMatthew EganMatthew LynchBrent PowellCLASS OF 1985Michael CurryCLASS OF 1984Gregory ScharlachCLASS OF 1979Ed KeiperLyle MatsushitaCLASS OF 1972Catherine (Waite) LearGeorge Vargas Jr.CLASS OF 1971Jerry KillionCLASS OF 1970William GreeneCLASS OF 1968Priscilla HintzmanCURRENT FACULTYBeate HathawayKaren PaciorekCaren RyanDenise (Yocum) WreedeRachel YocumCLASS OF 2003Paul CabotCLASS OF 2002(Molly) Margaret ChristyJennie DuongAndrew TaylorCLASS OF 1989Maggie (Fulford) ShermanCLASS OF 1988Daniel KimPeter SethCLASS OF 1978Scott HathawayCLASS OF 1977Krishnan MohandieFORMER FACULTYJanet (Helmer) B. FirthBarrett Maass44BRANCHING OUT SPRING 2008