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Page 4 THE WALRUS November 2010 By Tom Nunan ‘11 On Thursday, October 21, 2010, St. Sebastian’s inducted its newest members into the Sister Evelyn C. Barrett, O.P. chapter of the National Honor Society (NHS). Though the actual induction ceremony took place on October 21st, preparation for the event began far in advance of that date. For one, those who were inducted only gained acceptance into NHS after having demonstrated their commitment to its four pillars (Character, Scholarship, Leadership, Service) during their previous years of high school. Sophomores or juniors who possess a minimum grade point average of 85% toward the end of the school year are eligible to be inducted into NHS the following year. Students in the sophomore and junior classes became aware of their eligibility in May of this past academic year. They then completed essays in which they elaborated upon their specific adherence to the four pillars of NHS. Each of their teachers completed recommendation forms on the students’ behalf, and then a special committee (whose specific membership is always kept secret) made the final decisions on which students would be inducted into the National Honor Society. So, once the students to be inducted for the upcoming year have been selected, we’re ready to have the induction ceremony, right? Wrong, actually. A further preparatory step happens in October: the election of NHS officers for the current school year. I did not know anything about the process for election of these officers until I myself actually experienced it several weeks ago. Here’s what it was like. Late one Thursday afternoon, all of the returning members of National Honor Society (that is, those seniors who had been inducted as juniors the previous year) gath- NHS Inducts New Members ered in Mr. Albertson’s room behind pillar of Service, using many relevant closed doors (or the one closed door, examples from his experience on the to be more accurate—unfortunately, School’s service trip to New Orleans. it was very warm that day…). Seniors He emphasized the truth that service raised their hands individually is the best way to translate our and nominated their classmates for faith in God and love for humanity the offices of President, Vice President, from the language of ideal into and Secretary. Each office was the reality of action. Vice President considered separately, and one person Lucas Mykulak discussed the pillar could be nominated for no more of Scholarship, and drove home the than one office. No one was allowed point that we must learn for the sake to nominate himself. There were no of learning and not for the gratification speeches involved, either. By the of high grades. Vice President end of the nomination period, each Alex Spear spoke about Character, office had at least four nominees. emphasizing the importance of Then, each senior present silently honesty and concern for others on wrote on a piece of paper his choice the part of St. Sebastian’s students. for each of the offices, one person Finally, President Tom Keefe elaborated per office. upon the pillar of leadership, Once the ballots had all citing the accomplishments of many been received, NHS advisor Mr. Albertson superb generals of classical history. read all the names on every Mr. Ferguson commented later that ballot meticulously while Tom Hoff he believed this particular induction ‘11, the designated scribe, recorded ceremony had perhaps the best a tally on the white board for each speeches of any of the previous candidate. After each name was induction ceremonies. read, abundant cheering followed, Succeeding the speeches, particularly when two candidates those about to be inducted into NHS for the same office were in a tight as well as the returning members race, which happened often. The stated the traditional NHS pledge, suspense increased. Eventually, Tom both recognizing the ideals of the Keefe was named President and Will Society and affirming their commitment Vietze Secretary. The race for Vice to them. Each new inductee President was especially contested, was presented with a certificate though. Alex Spear and Lucas Mykulak and pin, signifying his newly gained tied twice (in the first election membership into the National Honor and in a special run-off). In the end, Society, by Assistant Headmaster Mr. both were named Vice President, Nerbonne and Headmaster Burke. and all was well. Following the inductions, Headmaster Now we were ready for Burke offered concluding the ceremony (actually, there was remarks in which he recognized the a rehearsal for it two days before— hard work of the inductees themselves, another preparatory step—but we as well as that of their teach- need not recount that). The actual ers and parents, which abundant ceremony assumed its usual form. effort gained the inductees their Mr. Nerbonne called the ceremony membership in NHS. A reception followed to order, Father Arens offered an in Ward Hall. opening prayer, Mr. Chambers led Congratulations to all the us in singing “America the Beautiful,” inductees for all they have done NHS President Tom Keefe informed to merit their membership in the everyone about the history and National Honor Society. May they purpose of the National Honor Society, and all the members of NHS strive and then the speeches began. to uphold constantly the pillars of Secretary Will Vietze spoke about the Character, Leadership, Scholarship, and Service. Semi has Riverboat Theme By Matt Fechtelkotter ‘12 Many juniors and seniors from St. Sebastians and ladies from other schools are excited for the upcoming trip to New Orleans. Not for Mr. Nunan’s annual service trip. Rather, for the junior senior semi formal. This year, the junior and senior student council members offered up three possible themes, which the students voted on in class meetings. The three themes were, Pokemon, NASCAR, or a New Orleans riverboat. After the votes had been tallied up, the official theme was revealed as New Orleans riverboat. This theme has potential for greatness, for there are a great deal of ways in which a student can interpret the dress for the semi. For example, one could where a southern style three piece white suit. A pocket watch would also look extremely stylish. One could also where a panama hat, which is always adds to ones attire. As always, Chef Joe is providing the food. During last year’s freshman sophomore semi, Chef Joe provided excellent food, ranging from chicken fingers, French fries, and pizza. Then for dessert, fried twinkies, chocolate chip cookies, and slushies were provided. Based on the past food selection, we can only guess what kind of great food Chef Joe will provide for a New Orleans riverboat. Despite great themes in past years, the semis have been lightly attended. As a result, the student council almost decided not to hold a semi. However, the representatives took a poll of who was thinking of going this fall. Enough of the students raised their hands that they decided that a semi would be a decent idea. Also in past years, the semi has always had incredible decorations. Therefore, if there is going to be a semi, any one who can, should go, for all of the student council will have put in the effort to decorate ward hall, and organize the food. Similarly, we have already had a very successful fall dance, which was attended by many people. Now why can’t a lot of these students go to the semi? So if it’s possible for you to travel to St. Sebastians School on the tenth of December, you should. It’s definitely going to be a great time. COMPETE FOR PRIZES HERE! 1. NAME THAT TEACHER Competition This month’s Featured Teacher was born in Newton, and though this teacher spent a lot of childhood in Acton, he/she also spent time in England, Ireland, Hong Kong, and Singapore. In high school, this teacher played football and basketball, as well as Tecmo Bowl, the precursor to the Madden Video Games series. This teacher spent his childhood both with lots of girls (having only sisters) and in the principal’s office (being a big trouble-maker in school). This teacher attended none other than Boston College. Favorites include Chicken Pot Pie for lunch, Burritos anytime, and the Celtics to watch on TV. The teacher’s favorite athlete is Bo Jackson (he or she was quite adamant about this!) and his or her favorite holiday is Thanksgiving. And music? The Stones and Arcade Fire. During spare time, this teacher enjoys going to concerts, walking on the beach in Southie, and singing in the car. This teacher is not a fan of “Ugly Sweater Day” and hopes that they will receive a decent sweater (for once). WHO IS IT???? You may have to do some detective work. Once you think you know, cut out the section below and submit it in the green drop box in Mr. Drummond’s room for a prize! (It’s in Room 215, just to the right as you enter.) I, ________________________________________________, believe that the mystery teacher for this issue is ______________________________________________________________________. YEE HAW! 2. ARROWS TRIVIA Competition To compete for a major candy prize in this month’s Trivia Competition, answer the three questions below in full and write your name in the space provided. Then tear off this corner and submit your entry to the green drop box in Room 215, just to the right as you enter the room. A drawing will be held in December to determine the winner. YOUR NAME: ______________________________________________ Q1: Which two St. Sebastian’s teachers are cousins? _____________________________________ _____________________________________ Q2: Which Sebs’ sport has had an official Varsity standing for the least amount of time? _____________________________________ Q3: Who was the St. Sebastians’ Headmaster before Mr. Burke? _____________________________________ _ New Scheme Under Jr. Prez By Peter Cimini ‘12 Sitting in the pews on Monday mornings, one must think why the Student Council President makes a speech, almost about nothing, ranging from Chris Sullivan’s weekend fun to sunbathing while watching the sailing team to heartfelt apologies. While these quick speeches often offer a quick laugh, the true agenda of El Pres and his cabinet is often overlooked. So, I decided to sit down with President Patrick McLaughlin and discuss the many tasks that they have been working on. Peter Cimini: Yo Pat, what has the student council been up to recently? Pat McLaughlin: At the moment, student council is busy putting together the Winter Semi, based on a hilarious scene from “Step Brothers”. Other than that, we’re looking forward to putting our surplus money into <strong>something</strong> that the students and faculty can enjoy for years to come. One of the best ideas so far is to put together framed, autographed jerseys of former Arrows now playing professional sports. Each jersey would also have a thumbnail picture of the player from his time at Sebs. Most likely, if we decide to go through with the project, the jerseys would be hung in the Lounge. And since I passed the “Every Good Idea or Joke is Hereby Considered Property of Pat” Act earlier this year, regardless of whose idea that was, you all have me to thank. PC: What are the plans for the Magazine Drive Money? PM: Great Question. Every year the Magazine Drive is a big hit among the students. The participation of all the students gives us the initiative to bring it back every year. The truth is a lot of money goes back to the students in the various prize giving events, but we do add to the student council bank a sum of the surplus. The more you sell, the cooler stuff the school gets. Those of you who are not going to sell any magazines… you aren’t cool. PC: Are there any long-term projects on the table? PM: Long term projects are a huge part of what we do at Student Council. Right now we’re especially excited about the St. Seb’s Coffee House program, which will be a set of performances by the most musically gifted members of the community. For those of us of lesser musical talent, there will be refreshments provided as we take in the musical stylings of Sebs’ finest. PC: Do you plan on installing any new fundraisers in the near future” PM: You know, in terms of “new” fundraisers, were always sort of working through different ideas of what we can do to bring a fresh approach to fundraising and things of that nature. In my time as president, however, I’m really focused on bringing back the long-time Seb’s institutions like the Talent Show and the MPA Madden Tournament, which have faded over the past couple of years. These are traditionally our most successful fundraisers, and I believe that they must be brought back. PC: Can I expect the return of the talent show then? PM: Yes, as I mentioned earlier, come heck or high water my demands for the return of the Talent Show will be met. Detractors from the talent show will be penalized with a firm Austin Powers judo-chop. PC: Any ideas for a host? I know its going to be hard to replace Jamie Curley ‘09. PM: I’d like to see a senior do it, then again it might also be cool for a younger kid to do it for a few years. It doesn’t even have to be a student necessarily—the door is wide open. PC: Do you have a message to send to the community? PM: First and foremost I just want to thank everyone who helped me get to where I am now. Everyone who helped before and during my campaign, I luhh you. Thanks to the PMHC (Pat McLaughlin Haters Club), you guys keep me humble and focused and motivate me to do better. PC: Finally, any plans for reelection? PM: The way I see it is I unfortunately cannot guarantee my reelection, but I can guarantee that I’ll do everything in my power to be right back in my throne at this time next year. Also, anyone who rises against me will be banished to eternal dark oblivion by the awesome power of the god Cthulu… that was kind of a weird thing to say. But I want the process to be quick and easy so I can continue my boss flow for a few more years, maybe even a third term with an illegal post-grad year. PC: Alright Patty, thanks for your time PM: Pleasure, I hope to check in within a few months for another update. There it is, the actual plans of the student council have been discovered. I don’t know about you, but I’m fired up for all of the awesome things on the docket. I would love to see a celebrity host of the talent show, maybe Conan O’Brien or Peter Griffin, but that’s just my thought. If you aren’t excited for what the future holds, then I don’t know what you enjoy because these future events are the best the Student Council has ever come up with. Both Mr. Wu and Our President are practicing their poker faces for the December Semi. The Secret Rooms of St. Sebs By Nick Creegan ‘11 kitchen on top of a sand dune in the search for Mrs. Atwood’s pre-algebra Sahara desert. class. Nevertheless, the roles reverse “Hey Mom, can you come get me? Yeah, I’m in the academic building.” We’ve all said it. Those long days in middle school (or high school if, like me, you still don’t have a license) when you still enjoyed lounging around the library, studying for a test, slyly playing Slime Soccer, or making absurd Yoshi noises. But what is this building? What is the “academic building”? Yes, observant seventh grader, it is a building for academics. But, as students learn throughout their career in school, the building holds many more secrets than can be seen at first glance. The Birmingham Academic Building is without a doubt one of the most unique buildings in the entire world. Dubai may have the tallest building in the world, but Needham has a brick building that has some of the most interesting rooms around. There are secrets held within these walls that, until now, were not even known to some alumni. Take, for example, the second floor bathroom. For most, it is a bathroom. As far as most passerby are concerned, it is another necessity in a giant building, or perhaps a safe haven for a quick text message. But, as all St. Sebastian’s students soon discover, that room is much more than a bathroom. It has actually been scientifically proven that there is a gateway to Hell somewhere in that bathroom. As a matter of fact, I once read a statistic on the internet that the only room in the world that has reached hotter temperatures than the second floor bathroom is a small And what other secrets does the school hold? There are many more mysteries held within the walls of the “academic building.” How about the Ward Underground Tunnel that David Leith ‘11 mentioned in his infamous president election speech? Sure, it was a good way to make a bunch of kids laugh. But did people realize the legitimacy of David’s idea? Ironically enough, if they had paid attention to the scenery as they had made their way to their pews that morning, they would have realized that the administration had already considered and enacted this fantastic idea. That’s right, David Leith is a plagiarist... but let’s not get off topic. Hidden beneath the stairwell near the entrance to St. Bartholomew's Parish is a padlocked door, and behind that door is the Ward Underground Tunnel. Though it is now locked due to student misuse, there was a day that the tunnel flourished as a major hub of transportation for the school. In fact, it is rumored that a fifth Kingsley brother still roams the tunnel, guarding secrets that are buried deep within the school. Beyond the most intricate secrets that the world has to offer, St. Sebastian’s also boasts some of the most interesting class rooms in the world. The math wing, in example, is one of the cleverest decisions ever made by Arrow Administration. Sure, coming back to school after the summer is tough, but there’s not anything funnier then watching a group of seventh graders frantically in later grades when upperclassmen desperately try to remember where Mr. Dagdigian’s classroom is hidden. The school also offers some of the best views on the entire eastern seaboard. For example, Mr. Chris Lynch’s classroom looks out over the entire campus and offers some of the best seating arrangements in the building. It is conveniently located across from the library and is arguably the best classroom in the school. Therefore, there is a lot more to St. Sebastian’s then a great education and competitive sports teams. The school’s facilities are some of the most interesting and historic in the entire world. There are secret rooms, such as Mr. Nerbonne’s hidden lair to the right of the entrance of the library, and famous ones, such as Ward Hall, where everyone congregates each lunch period. There is the gigantic McCulloch room, where food is often served and random kids creep through the back doors, inquiring, “Pizza?” Whether you love your classes or not, it is undeniable that, as Friendly’s says, the room makes the meal. The classroom situation at Sebs is one that can either make or break an entire academic career. As a whole, the school is host to some of the best rooms in the entire world. So next time you think you’ll call up your mom and tell her to come to the “academic side,” take a few minutes to explore—just don’t get caught... and you didn’t hear it from me. Seriously, you didn’t...for real.
November 2010 THE WALRUS Page 5 If Dillon Ran The Auction... By Dillon Ecclesine ‘11 S E N I O R E D I T O R St. Sebastian’s Christmas Auction is one of the year’s most defining moments. It is a time for parents to gather in an attempt to raise money for their children’s beloved school, what we are lucky enough to call our own. To start off this discussion, I’d like to propose a situation: what if there were no auction? This would be just terrible. The auction is a time to parents to drop bills for their old pal, St. Sebastian, and without said cash, the school would immediately see changes for the worse: a change to leather helmets in football, students receiving only one chicken patty every Monday, no more soft serve machine, fries placed in ketchup when there is clearly space elsewhere…Wait a minute, scratch that last one. Either way, raising money is a vital part of keeping us well fed and maintaining daily life, so I shudder to think what would happen if no money was raised on the ever-important night of December 4 th . Among other things auctioned off include the usual – Celtics ticket, video game systems, vacations, etc. – great items for the holiday season. Word has it that there will even be a sailing adventure with The Son of Kelly himself, Mr. Nerbonne. Life really doesn’t get any better than that. The only other thing as exciting as a boat ride with Nerbana is watching David Leith ’11 get plowed on every Kickoff Return this year, especially during the final game of the year versus Thayer, when David made a new friend in big #32, who was kind enough to introduce David’s back to Thayer’s freshly seeded grass. Hopefully the waters will be calm, with little to no “Nerbulance” on the voyage. Bring your sunscreen. After giving you guys a little recap on this year’s Auction, I’m now going to list a few things that I really feel should have made the cut this year. Had I been running the Auction, these ten things would certainly have been open for bidding: 1.) David Leith’s autographed game-used jersey from this year’s football season. WOW! What a collectible. Take my word for it, in twenty years this thing will be worth seven figures. You ever seen this guy play? He’s got NFL Draft written all over him. ESTIMATED VALUE: $4500 2.) A yearlong contract that guarantees no fries being placed in your ketchup. Are you kidding me? This item is an absolute gem. You couldn’t get this deal on eBay. What a snag. ESTIMATED VALUE: $2000 3.) Three Golf Lessons with Mr. Cressotti. You all know that Mr. Cressotti is a Latin guru. But I bet you didn’t know his handicap is almost down to a scratch. He can bring it on the golf course, and I’m sure he has some great stories to tell you about some golfing adventures. ESTIMATED VALUE: $3000 4.) One A+ in a class of your choice. This is a peach, to say the least. No work in any class, with a guaranteed A+? Doesn’t get any better than that. ESTIMATED VALUE: $5500 5.) One day in which you may call teachers by their first names, without getting in trouble. Who comes up with the stuff? This is, once again, an absolute gem. For all of you out there who have had a burning desire to just approach a teacher and say, “Hello, [Insert Teacher Name Here].” Don’t try and act like you don’t want this, you know who you are. ESTIMATED VALUE: $1200 6.) A weeklong opportunity to give other students a detention. Hey, remember that kid who nuggeted your backpack last week? Ya, me too. He could be in detention right now if you convince your parents to drop some Franklin’s on this one-of-a-kind chance. ESTIMATED VALUE: $1400 7.) Breaking the ground at the new science center. Make your mark on Seb’s history, and take the honorary first dig. How cool would that be to come back in 30 years and tell your son, “Ya, Jack. I built that.” Pretty darn cool, let me tell you. ESTIMATED VALUE: $7500 8.) The chance to follow Mr. Palmaccio around for a full day. Let me tell you this much, it would undoubtedly be the greatest day of your life. You’d learn a lot, let me tell you. And you’d have a few chuckles along the way. Go math! ESTIMATED VALUE: $6200 9.) The Coach Souza Motivational Speaking CD: Volume 1. This item has never hit stores before. Featuring all your favorite sayings, this CD will really help you “pin your ears back and get after it.” You’ll certainly be playing for “48 Minutes.” ESTIMATED VALUE: $5800 10.) Front row tickets to a Mr. Ferguson and Mr. Wilbur matchup. This situation has been the talk of the town for many years, but no conclusion has ever been reached. Quite frankly, I wouldn’t want to face either one of them, but I guess that’s why I got demoted this year to the fourth string quarterback. ESTIMATED VALUE: $12000 So there you have it. Take it as you will. That’s what I’d be auctioning off, but unfortunately (and I’m sure you can see why) I don’t get to put any of that up for grabs. As Mr. Albertson would say, “It’s just one of those things that drives you bats!” So feel free to come and volunteer to help on December 4 th , more help is always needed. It will be a great time, trust me. But in all seriousness, we appreciate all that you do for the school, so thank you! THE THANKSGIVING SURVEY By JOHN BARRACK and JARED CHASE As the year flies by, we find ourselves enveloped in great stress. However, with Thanksgiving coming up, we thought it would be eye opening and a healthy hiatus to think of what we’re truly thankful for: MR. CLEARY: Grandparents’ Day at my grandson’s preschool MR. SIMONEAU: Kanye West finally apologizing to Taylor Swift MR. MCCARTHY: Disposable diapers MR. SULLIVAN: My family MR. WILBUR: My daughters MR. RYAN: Notre Dame football, but without Charlie Weis Many people on the 2010 St. Sebastian’s JV football team will tell you that the team can best be described as a family business. What business might that family be in? According to Coach Curran, winning is that business. The season pretty much followed that ideal as the team claimed the first undefeated JV squad (7-0) in some time. It all began with a powerful kick-off game at Thayer in which several players got the chance to “get a good look” and show off some of their hidden nuggets of skill. Among them was Brendan Daly ’13, who happened to demolish any players that dared to place themselves in his way and earned his way to several touchdowns as well as a later spot on the varsity team. Thayer was handily defeated, and JV proceeded to do battle against BC High the next week. The game took place on a cold, rainy Wednesday when many teams had either cancelled or postponed games and practices. There the St. Sebastian’s team stood, waiting for forty-five minutes, in the rain, for the delayed BC High game. Despite some initial doubt as to whether or not the Eagles would show, the contest began with a powerful offense from the opposition. As the second half began with a 14-0, the JV team unleashed its fury and proceeded to pull out an amazing comeback. MR. DESCHENES: That none of my students will be at my house. MR. GROHMANN: Vests. MS. DIBLASI: My students. MR. THOMASY: 45-minutes classes PAUL LEE: All you can eat buffets WILL ADAMS: Triathalons CHRIS WARNER:L Boston College JV Football Goes Undefeated By Mike Petro ‘13 When JV stepped off the bus at Belmont Hill, several players remarked that the other team seemed considerably larger than a normal JV team. Although the BH team had some big boys, the game held fast to the ancient saying “the bigger they are, the harder they fall”. With an impressive showing from the O-line, the Arrows blew holes through the defense and quickly racked up some points. Unfortunately, Belmont Hill took a similar course of action. Then the defense pulled it together and St. Sebastian’s claimed victory in a well-contested game. Although the game at Roxbury Latin began with a couple penalties against an unnamed guard (not Wolpe ‘13), the offensive line pulled it together to cope with a very decent linebacker. As the game progressed with near shutout quality, it came to a rather rapid ending. It appeared as though Billy Behman ’13 got fed up with not playing and in his first play of the game, he actually ended the game. The poor RL quarterback had no idea what hit him and ended up unconscious on the ground. Luckily he was okay, but his team was now one player short and JV was handed the game. Billy has since made a tradition of trying to demolish at least one person during the fourth quarter of each game. Milton Academy was dealt with swiftly as JV avenged the recent TOM MURPHY: Pop Tarts SAM RACINE: Toaster Strudel NICK FRANCO: Bunnies MICHAEL HOFF: ESPN.com COLE ALDRICH: God BRIAN WOLPE: Me MIKE PETRO: My beard TYSON REED: Healthy feet defeat of Seb’s Varsity Football to its Milton counterpart. The last game against BB&N, however, proved to be quite the show of force for all involved. It just so happened to be filmed, and has proved to be essentially a highlight reel for everybody. Here is a small snippet of the amazing happenings of this game: Conor Hilton ’13 got several touchdowns, one from 80 yards and another from fifty. There were at least two picks, most notably by MJ Muldowny ’12 and Arturo Adkins ’14. Connor Chabot ’13 got a great tackle, and even Ike Chukwu ’13 woke up and got a sack. Another player charged so hard through the BB&N lines that he almost left his belt-less pants behind. One might have described the game as Caesar Crossing the Rhine––when the giant Doug Kingsley ‘12 walked onto the field, the opposing team scattered in his shadow. The final was 48-0, and the incredible undefeated season was complete. After asking many students what they thought about the JV football team, the answer is pretty much unanimous: “This team is a great source of hope for next year’s varsity team”, and “it’s just amazing”. The team intends to keep it that way as many players will hit the weight room to prepare for next season’s hopeful repeat victory. Although this season may be over, the conquest of JV football has only just begun. Celebrity Look-Alike Nick Chappel Mr. Hall Same school, same town, same hair, same face...so what’s the difference? John Dacier Addresses Veterans By Matt Donovan ‘13 It was a grim October afternoon when John Dacier, a Seb’s sophomore, mentioned the words “West Point” to Mr. Nerbonne. Immediately, the thought of the annual Veterans Day ceremony at Memorial Park in Needham popped into Mr. Nerbonne’s head. It is Dacier’s ambition to attend a military academy, whether it is West Point or any other school. Naturally, Dacier accepted Mr. Nerbonne’s proposal that he speak at the ceremony on Veterans Day. Seb’s alumni Joe Albanese spoke at last year’s ceremony, so Dacier would have a hard act to follow. With every day that passed, Dacier’s anticipation for the speech multiplied. Dacier had spoken publicly before, but this was very different than his seb’s chapel speeches. This time, Dacier would not Juniors Journey to Hub of USA By Kevin Wolfe ‘12 On the early morning of Sunday, November 14th, the junior class descended upon America’s capital city. Knowing that the torch had been passed down to them, those in the Class of 2012 were ready to make the annual trip and represent St. Sebastian’s in a proud and respectable manner. At 6:15am sharp, the group met at school to start the first leg of a long journey to Washington. Once the bus arrived at Logan, the students received their boarding passes and waited in the terminal for the flight to board. The unfortunate few who somehow managed to miss Mr. Dan Burke’s oft-reiterated dress code memo soon reappeared from the bathroom in the appropriate attire ready with the rest of the group to embark on the trip. Although the lack of sleep from the previous night caused great fatigue amongst the group, the energetic and excited attitude held by the students and the chaperones set a precedent for the smooth running of the trip. After arriving at Baltimore safely, the group quickly filed onto the two buses provided and headed in the direction of Washington D.C. Before entering the district itself, the buses made the first stop at George Washington’s Mount Vernon plantation. For those that had never before visited the site, the opportunity to see Washington’s property provided great insight into how the first president lived outside of his government office. After exploring the property extensively, the time came for a guided tour of Washington’s mansion. Although the writer here failed to attend that part of the visit, the students and chaperones that partook in the activity thoroughly enjoyed themselves nevertheless. Shortly after, the group departed for the Arlington National Cemetery. Although for some the long walk up the hill proved to be a tough challenge, everyone eventually reached the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to attend the three o’clock Changing of the Guards ceremony. Once the group understood exactly what the demanding job of the guard entailed, each person gained a great appreciation for measures taken by the military to ensure that lives of lost soldiers never become forgotten. Separated from the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier by only a short walk was the grave sight of a few important Kennedy family members. be speaking in front of his seventy classmates, but in front of veterans buzzing to hear that their service to this country is not in vain. The day finally came, and Dacier arrived behind Needham High School greeted by hundreds of Veterans milling around and socializing with each other, many of which fought together in the army, navy, or the air force. Dacier then proceeded to meet the other speakers at the ceremony, which included a Needham State Representative and a Needham High Student. When the Needham student finished, Dacier, speech vibrating, stepped up to the podium and began to speak. Dacier’s speech consisted of his definition of a patriot, and that one does not have to be a soldier to be a patriot. One example of a patriot Like other historic sights, the graves brought the group closer to the lives of those buried, giving each person a connection to feel between himself and those passed away in the Kennedy family. Fortunately, as heavy fatigue began to set in from the non-stop sightseeing, the time came for the group to return to the hotel to check in and unpack. After a quick hour of relaxation, Mr. Burke rounded up everyone for dinner. The destination was Phillip’s Restaurant, a fantastic seafood buffet located on the banks of the Potomac in the district. Everyone in the group enjoyed the delicious array of food as well as the famous southern hospitality of the waiting staff. As dinner came to a close, one student volunteered to give a speech recounting what he had learned from that day. Amongst some meaningless yet comedic jargon, this student called attention to his realization that we were similar to a family on this trip. Indeed, we had all come closer together that day like a family. That strong bond developed in the group would make the visit an even more enjoyable and memorable experience as the time passed. After a long night of touring the city’s famous sites, the group retired to their hotel rooms for a much-needed sleep. The next day came abruptly as neither the students nor the chaperones were ready to awake again at such an early hour. After reenergizing at breakfast, the group left the hotel to finally visit the heart of Washington. The brief subway ride brought everyone to the Capitol Hill, a sight as visually attractive as it is interesting. The group circled the Capital Building to view the exterior and later entered into the tourist section. Walking through the Capital and experiencing the history of the government gave the group even more appreciation for the ways in which our country functions. After completing the tours of the Capital, Newseum, and National Archives, the group made their way to the subway station. Along the walk, a small of group of students bumped into a short, oddly dressed man and his apparent entourage. Seeing the opportunity, the students convinced the man and his companions to take a picture. Not long after, the entire grade rushed in to join the photo. The enthusiasm of the man and his group during the picture led the students to believe that he may have some sort of fame that he used was a family that flies an American flag outside their home. Dacier concluded his speech, and the audience praised his speech and delivery with a robust applause. The audience included St. Sebs sophomores Tommy Kelly and Joe Coughlin, who were not only applauding, but yelling. While still basking in the glory of his successful speech, Dacier was approached by a reporter from the local Needham newspaper. He pulled John aside and asked for a quote in the Needham paper, but John couldn’t think of anything to say, so the reporter wrote down <strong>something</strong> that he told John to say. For most Sebs’ students, Veterans Day is a day to catch up on sleep and play a couple dozen hours of Call of Duty, but for John Dacier, Veterans Day 2010 will be one to remember. in his homeland. While his identity may never be known, the photo-op surely added humor and enjoyment to the trip. The time that followed in the Georgetown section of the district gave the students two free hours to eat at a restaurant of choice and explore the area. Upon returning to the hotel, the students and chaperones headed to the reception room to meet with Headmaster Burke and a group of St. Seb’s alumni. Amongst the Alumni present, three spoke about their careers in Washington and gave advice to the junior class as they initiate the college process and begin to think about the direction of life after education. After dessert and the speeches, the reception concluded and the students returned upstairs for time to relax and enjoy. While sixty young men were invading the hallways and pool in the hotel, there came no incidents worthy of receiving attention here. Although Tuesday was the last day in Washington, the group concluded the trip well by visiting the last important sights of the city. The Holocaust Museum showed an in depth view of Nazi Germany and the Nazi Holocaust perhaps unseen by many in the group prior to the visit. As the day progressed, the group made a short trip to the Smithsonian where lunch was served and time was allotted to explore the many exhibits. Everyone managed to find the Air and Space Museum where the bus waited to bring the students and chaperones back to the Baltimore Airport. Before leaving the district, Mr. Burke made sure the grade caught a glimpse of the White House. After the class picture in front of the famous residence, the trip in Washington had ended and thus started the journey home. Visiting the nation’s capital gave both the students and chaperones a strengthened admiration for the basis on which the country was founded and still functions today. The American ideals of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness were clearly seen within the presidential monuments, the government buildings, the museums, and the entire city itself. Such a trip is necessary for all people, those American and those not, to understand and appreciate what makes the United States the nation that it is. Much gratitude is owed to all the faculty members behind the planning and orchestrating of the trip including Mr. Sullivan, Mr. Burke, Mr. Eaton, Mr. Curran, Mr. Thomas, and Mr. Grohmann.
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