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Recently, Culver Academies was fortunate enough to have its campus as the location of the appellate court hearing of Bradley v. State of Indiana as a part of the Appeals on Wheels program in Legion Memorial. Bradley v. State of Indiana was a case regarding a citizens right to privacy. The plaintiff, Bradley had is personal items searched as a part of a routine procedure in hospital check in. When he was transferred to Ft. Wayne, methamphetamine was found by a nurse. The nurse alerted the police. Bradley claims his 4th Amendment right to protection against search and seizure. Earlier this month, the opinion of the Appeals Court affirmed the ruling of the trial court and deemed that Bradley’s Fourth Amendment rights were not violated by Nurse Silva contacting the police. Judge Baker concurred with the majority opinion. JUDGE JOHN G. BAKER’64 RETURNS TO CULVER WITH APPEALS ON WHEELS AAKRIT MEHROTRA While such an opportunity is incredible, adding to its significance was the presence of Senior Judge John G. Baker, an alumnus of Academies. Baker went to Indiana University, receiving a degree in history, then proceeded to attend Indiana University Law School, graduating in 1971. After practicing law in Bloomington for several years, he became a trial judge. A role he held for 13.5 years. Baker graduated from Culver in 1964 and was a member Company B in the infantry battalion. He came to Culver in the middle of the year following the completion of 1st semester. He came to Culver because he did not feel challenged enough at his old high school. The Appeals on Wheels is a program by the Indiana Judiciary designed to showcase work and broaden understandings about the judicial program to Hoosiers around the state. The program first began in 2001 and came to Culver for the first time that year as well, being held in Eppley Auditorium then. 22 years later, the program returned to Culver affording students a front seat view to see the judicial system at work. Following the hearing, the Judges took questions from members of the audience, Introduction / Andrew Crowell ‘18 Judges (left to right): John Baker CMA ‘64, Patricia Riley, Rudolph Pyle III/ Andrew Crowell ‘18 4
“One day coach flipped me a jersey and I was on the team” Baker did note that he did not feel he was a very good player however.” Baker recalled that the first class that he had was that first day of Culver, a biology course but had mistakenly gone to study hall and missed his class. “I cut my first class and was awarded five hours of extra duty” explained Baker. He never missed a class at Culver again. Extra duty was a punishment given to students who violated rules and consisted of walking paces back and forth for a certain period of time. Baker was very involved on Culver’s campus, something that many students today may be able to relate to. Baker was the starting quarterback on the football team after being asked to join his senior year by coach Russ Oliver. Baker was also a member of the basketball team. Aside from sports, Baker held the role of Unit Commander of Company B, while infantry units today have between 50-60 members, Baker explained that it was around 110 cadets then. He was also a member of the Cadet Club. To Baker, it was the values and experiences that Culver instilled in him which were the most important. He appreciated getting to know people from different communities and backgrounds, noting his background of Southern India was very homogeneous in nature. During his plebe year (what the New Cadets were called), he distinctly remembers that his first sergeant was a refugee from Cuba who had fled Castro’s regime, or another member of Unit Leadership had a strong Texan accent. As a graduate within the Class of 1964, Baker was a student at Culver for some of the most consequential moments of American history. He still remembers the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, questions swirled around campus about would the nation go to war. What would that mean for Culver Cadets as Culver was affiliated with the JROTC (Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps) program. Baker also recalled the assassination of President Kennedy in November of 1963. He remembers being in physics class with Commander Shorts. Baker even recalled that they were working with slinkies when his teacher broke the news about the Presidents death. Judge Rudolph Pyle III answering questions / Andrew Crowell ‘18 Q & A session / Andrew Crowell ‘18 John G. Baker 5
Baker also shared about the Culver he went to, noting that his unit only had a television his Junior year. If a cadet wished to see a movie they had two options: go to town on Saturday and watch whichever film they were playing or go to Eppley Auditorium and what was getting screened that night. He also shared daily wake up at 6:28AM each day and daily P.I (Personal Inspection) and the 9:00AM G.I (General Inspection) each Saturday. Baker shared that he felt that structure was beneficial for me. Like many alumni, Baker still recognizes the influence that some instructors had on him. His Senior year English teacher Art Hughes made him think deeply. Hughes also had students write letter to themselves to the future in five and then ten year increments, something Baker was deeply impacted by. Another influential teacher was Chet Marshall. Marshall was one of Baker’s English teacher and basketball coach. Baker recalls staying in a gym overnight and Marshall read them poetry. When Baker thinks about Culver, he is reminded of the values that Culver instills in its students. Baker said it was Culver that taught him to “stay balanced” in stressful times. He also said Culver taught him skills about working together that he has used in all aspects of his life. Baker really valued is time at Culver, saying “Culver meant a lot to me because it did so much for me.” Culver has had a profound impact on many people’s lives, creating the strong foundation by developing skills that are useful life long. Judge Baker is a living example of the impact that Culver can have on a student’s future. Judge Patricia Riley / Andrew Crowell ‘18 Judge John Baker (left), Judge Patricia Riley (right) / Andrew Crowell ‘18 6
Aakrit Mehrotra The Secrets of the Huffington Library While on the GPS (Global Pathways Spring) trip to Italy in the spring of 2023, Strati revealed that library has a VR head set that can show a re-creation of the Ancient Roman Forum. It may be easy to think of the library as just a building filled with books, but students have so many more resources at their fingertips. Every student at Culver Academies is aware that the Huffington Library contains far more books than they could hope to read in their four years at school. Or even in a lifetime. Sitting at the eastern end of the academic quad, the Huffington Library gets passed by hundreds of students each day on their way to class, many do not know the true extent of the library’s resources and collection. Mrs. Strati, the head librarian, said that the “library is always open for students who show curiosity” noting that all 800+ students can access theses resources and more. A brief search on the Huffington Library Website opens a world of numerous databases that any member of the Culver community has access to-- academic papers, records, and documents such as JSTOR, Library of Congress Digital Collection or the David Rumsey Map collection. Micheal Huffington archival photos Aakrit Mehrotra’24 Micheal Huffington archival photos Aakrit Mehrotra’24 7
Arguably one of the least known treasures of Culver is the collection on the third floor of the library. Across from the Napoleon Room, (another room rich with history) are the Dickie, Lockwood, and Huffington Collections of works. In fact, many of the works within these collections are still being recorded and Culver still does not know the full extent of everything in its collection. Under lock and key behind cabinets that stretch from wall to wall are a collection of hundreds of rare and old books and documents as a part of the Lockwood and Dickie Collections. There is a 1584 Mathematical Jewel used for noting instruments of science of math which lays between pages of archival paper to keep it safe for another five centuries. Another item in the collection is the 1755 Johnson English Dictionary. Johnson’s Dictionary is one of the most influential dictionaries in the English language and was the authoritative dictionary for the English language until the completion of the Oxford English Dictionary 173 years. There is also an Aztec Codex, displaying various illustrations and diagrams in the Aztec style of art. The Aztec Civilization was a Mesoamerican Civilization that established themselves in modern day central Mexico and were later defeated by Spanish Conquistadors. Frost being a renowned 20th century American poet, who many Culver students have likely studied in some from by their Senior Year. Other signed books include former President Jimmy Carter’s Memoir, the 39th President and a Virginia Woolf’s Room of Ones Own, a first edition, meaning it dates to 1929. Another notable work in Huffington’s collection includes William Blake’s Jerusalem: The Emanation of the Great Albion with illustrations. William Blake was an English poet who wrote other notable works such as the poem “Tyger” and contributed to the romanticism movement in Europe. Blake himself believed that Jerusalem: The Emanation of the Great Albion was one his greatest works, so it is incredible that Culver has a copy of such an influential text. In 2001, Micheal Huffington donated a large section of his personal collection of books to the Academies. Texts include a signed copy of Robert Frost’s North of Boston. Micheal Huffington archival photos Aakrit Mehrotra’24 Signed copy of Room of One's Own Aakrit Mehrotra’24 Johnson Library Aakrit Mehrotra’24 8
The library also holds dozens of works related to Culver. Copies of Roll Call and Vedette going as far back as the First World War line the shelves on the third floor. A guide to an early curriculum, with courses such as penmanship, Greek, and Latin can give modern-day students a glimpse of life at Culver in the early 20th century. All students were required to take the penmanship course as “it is an integral skill for navigating the professional and business worlds” notes the curriculum guide, and Greek and Latin were seen as languages that educated men should have knowledge of. The guide also revealed that visiting Speakers were still an important part of the Culver tradition. These guest speakers would be brought in to teach students about topics not necessarily covered in the normal curriculum. In 2012, the library added the Michael Huffington Archives. Huffington’s papers from his time spent in Congress, his work in in the Film Industry and various philanthropic projects are all stored there. Photos with President Reagan and various campaign buttons and memorabilia line the walls as well, adding to the sense of history. Strati explained that documents in the library collection really show the “number of great people who have passed through here.” The Huffington Library is truly a one-of-a-kind place that Culver students have access to, even as it may seem just a part of our daily lives. Strati revealed it is not uncommon to hear from Seniors that they have never checked out a book until their junior or senior year or they had no idea what the library had to offer. Inlayed deep into the philosophy of Culver is to take charge of one’s own learning, the Huffington Library offers students a great avenue to do so. “The library can really show students the sense of history at Culver…that it is an institution steeped in history,” said Strati. Aztec Photo Aakrti Mehrotra’249
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“Our veterans have done these things and made their sacrifices since the shot heard round the world at Lexington and Concord.” “They have done them in my war. We will continue to do them as long as our nation requires this of us.” These quotes were delivered in a speech by a Chief Special Warfare Operator, who asks to remain anonymous and identified as Chief C., on November 11, 2023, at 11:11 am. Culver’ annual Veteran’s Day Ceremony, held outside the Legion Memorial Building, is a ceremony that recognizes the services and sacrifices of those who served during World War I. It has been a tradition at Culver since 1924. As a Culver alum, Chief C. said that he was honored and humbled to be back. He was a graduate from Culver Woodcraft Camp, spent four years as a Culver cadet in winter school, and worked as a camp counselor and instructor for five years. “Culver’s ability to instill the call to service, to nurture and cultivate esprit de corps, and truly challenge its students to foster their own selfefficacy is a recipe long proven in her alumni,” said Chief C. After opening his speech with his love, admiration and appreciation for Culver, he focused on educating the students and community on the sacrifices of the deceased service members, addressing the 5W: Who, What, Where, When, and Why. “WHAT” What is service? To begin with, Chief C. talked about the concept of “servant leadership,” which he had learned at Culver. Students saluting the flag / Andrew Crowell ‘18 “Never ask a peer to perform a duty you wouldn’t perform yourself. Place the well-being of your units and dorms above the comforts and conveniences of any individual,” said Chief C. when explaining examples of “servant leadership” that can be implemented at Culver. “These truths remain for those of us in military service as well,” he said. “Each veteran has signed a check, made payable to the American people for the amount of ‘up to and including their lives.” Chief C. highlighted how each service member will raise their right hand and swear to support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; they will bear true faith and allegiance. “That promise is sworn on oath—not to a president, or a political party, not to any religious organization or socioeconomic group, but to the Constitution of the United States of America.” Not only have service members sacrificed personal events such as anniversaries, weddings, birthdays, or births were just the obvious missed moments. But, as Chief C said, “Our veterans have returned from war missing pieces of themselves, both physically and spiritually. They have given of their hearts, their minds, and their bodies.” Sharing a quote from President Reagan, Chief C. remarked that the fallen warriors had given up two lives, the ones they were living, and the ones they would have lived. Navy SEAL Asks Culver Students to Earn Sacrifices Made by Veterans Fiona Song 12
Dr. Bird speaking / Andrew Crowell ‘18 “WHY” Next, Chief C. noted why young men and women would agree to go to the downrange and destroy the nation’s enemies. Altruism is not the only motivation here. As a nation started with an amalgamation of immigrants and no ubiquitous religion or cultural cloth formed by itself, the United States was a nation of free people. Those immigrants had been given a chance to reap a life of their own, thus the love of the American experiment was born. “That love sustains the American warrior still today,” said C. Nationalism is not unique to these United States, but I will say that I have never been to a more patriotic country.” He shared how Matt Lampert, who is also a Culver grad, trained until he could return to the fight and lead his men again after losing both legs to an improvised explosive device in Afghanistan; and how Sam, who is a SEAL and Joint Terminal Attack Controller, finally agreed to sleep after 72-hours of controlling the airassets over head because he was busy keeping his brothers safe but had to sleep on fuel cannisters and only for 40 minutes. Who were the veterans? Chief C. credits 41,892,128 U.S. wartime service members, 21,800,000 living veterans, 1430,290 wounded veterans, and 1,190,085 wartime dead. The nation’s soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines comprise the single most diverse group of men and women in the United States. He shared the story of Senior Chief Kent, who was selected to accompany SEAL Platoons as a signals intelligence operator and deployed with Naval Special Warfare in 2007. She deployed again with the SEAL in 2012 to Afghanistan and on a deployment in 2019, she was killed by a suicide bomber while serving in Syria. “They are also men like my grandfather. One who flew more than double the required number of sorties as a waist gunner in the Army air-corps during World War II, and another, a marine,” said Chief C. “He was captured at the battle of Wake Island and imprisoned for three years and eight months. Finally returning home at the conclusion of war, at over six feet tall, he weighed just 115 pounds.” “These are our veterans. These are our heroes, and they are our responsibility,” he said. Ultimately, Chief C. told Culver students that they will grow to be the leaders of tomorrow, so the nation’s needs and responsibilities fall on them. For the students from abroad, Chief C. told them to remember Culver and this nation that had nurtured their growth. He wanted them to keep these in their hearts as they grow to be leaders of their nations and to understand that their similarities dramatically outweigh and outpace their differences. “Those of you here today will serve in our armed forces will stand on the shoulders of the greatest men and women our nation has produced. All of you here, including me, have benefited from the sacrifices of our veterans. I have but one request of you—earn it.” 13
NEW SCHEDULE TRIAL YAY OR NAY? Student Perspectives: How did you feel physically and mentally with the new schedule? Hannah Koker: Fun. I like it. I have more sleep and I’m more productive. Ti Sante: I didn’t like it. I had a full schedule. I needed to meet with my teachers a lot during the office hour, which was very helpful, but it feels like I have five classes a day. My really long days didn’t end until 4 pm, giving me no time before sport. Micheal Ma: I like it because I can always take a nap during the office hour. Jack Wu: It’s relax I can take lunch anytime and take a nap. Sherry Chen: I dislike it, because we have less time after school. We don't have time to rest and get ready for sports. Patricio Hernandez: The break between classes helped me feel refreshed and concentrated going to classes, less chance falling asleep. I also have more time. I can do homework during office hours if I didn’t finish it last night. What’s your favorite part of the new schedule? Least favorite? Hannah Koker: I can go to lunch whenever I want and meet my teacher in the middle of the day. The school day is really long though, starting school earlier and ending earlier would be better. Ti Sante: More chances to meet with my teachers. But at the same time, I felt busier even though I have the same amount of time. Micheal Ma: If you have homework that’s due during the afternoon, you don’t have to finish everything at night, or take late lights. Naps are nice. It’s better than the schedule that we currently have. Jack Wu: We have more time for lunch, but I didn’t like that we have little time to change before sports. Sherry Chen: I don’t know which lunch to go and I was not efficient doing assignments in the middle of the day. 14
Did you get more sleep from the new schedule? Most students reported getting more sleep. Did you meet with teachers during office hours? Students reported that they have more chances meeting with teachers or going to the writing center. Do you have any suggestions for the new schedule if it is implemented next year? Ti Sante: Leaving an hour after school will be better. We will have more time to meet with teachers. Michelle Ma: Extra 10 minutes before sports, like 3:40. Patricio Hernandez: CQ starting at 8 is a better idea than 7:30. If CQ starts at 8, sports could be 15 minutes later. RESIDENTIAL DIRECTORS’ PERSPECTIVES Mama Anita Staples: They reacted better than they reacted at the new schedule in fall. They knew it was coming so they adapted it better. They like the long break in between the day. Mama Ann Rutledge: At first, there are few complaints. Later no. I think it worked out. What was the complaint? there was not enough transition time. Everyone is just a little tired. Dorm moms reported fewer students staying up late. Teachers’ PERSPECTIVES Do you like the office hour times on the new schedule or the normal schedule? Steve Palmer, mathematics instructor: I think more students showed up because they didn’t have the pressure to rush to athletics since it’s not at the end of the classes. How did your kids react to the new schedule? Are there more late lights happening? Do you feel like it was extra work? The classes were 5 minutes shorter; did it make any difference? Bill Murchie, senior mathematics instructor: No, I thought it was part of my responsibility for my job. It’s just a clarification for my students. Palmer: Maybe a little. Not significantly. I didn’t even notice the reduced 5 minutes. Our middle lunch block is 80 minutes as well. 15
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Andrew J. Chen ‘Tis the Season of Jesus’ Birth “I loved the movie so much. Not only did get to spend time with my friends, but I got to learn so much about the most important event ever.” Kate Fortune, CGA ‘26 Two weeks later, another group traveled to Bremen, Indiana, to participate in the Bremen Holy Walk, an immersive re-creation of the first Christmas. The students re-enacted life in 1 BCE, and their journey began on the historical day before Jesus’s birth and ended at his death. During the walk, students met Roman soldiers and spoke with merchants from Bethlehem, and some of our family was even imprisoned in cages as part of the play! On the way back to campus, the students celebrated the Christian spirit with Christmas carols, hot chocolate, and cookies. NOVEMBER SPIRITUAL LIFE TRIPS Twenty-three Culver Academies students, led by Pastor Brenda Hafer and Deacon Mike Madison, traveled to South Bend to watch “Journey to Bethlehem,” a Christian musical retelling the story of the events leading up to Jesus’ birth. “I loved that it was a musical. I love music and musicals. The fact that they made my favorite story into a musical makes it that much better,” said Elise Newton CGA ’26. Newton rated the movie a 10 out of 10. “I did like the visual representation of Jesus's birth. I think it made it very real, not just another story from a story book. I think that did a very good job staying true to the original story,” Newton said. Kate Fortune CGA ’26, also attended the movie on Nov. 12 and appreciated the musical portion. “I loved the movie so much. Not only did get to spend time with my friends, but I got to learn so much about the most important event ever,” she said. Jesus Is The Best Gift / Deacon Mike Holy Walk Participants / Pastor Brenda 18
“Community is important for me; the play personifies what it means to be included, to have value, to be seen, heard, and noticed—it resonates with people of all ages,” Joyce said. He feels that high school students put pressure on themselves, but this idea of self-selecting at a young age is not always ideal. Similar to the house placements at this certain magic school, people don’t have to be tagged in a certain way — “why be one thing, when you can be…everything else?” (a line of the character of Helga). Joyce once taught at Northwestern University, but he shared that he chose to come here because he was amazed by teens’ ambition and this golden age of possibility. “Puffs” showcases and responds to this diversity. Building empathy within a diverse community This November, Culver theater put on a comedy production named, “Puffs or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic.” The play depicts the story of a forgotten group the “Puffs.” Kate Lin I went to watch the play on Friday with my friends, and Eppley was unexpectedly crowded. I arrived a few minutes early and the seats were already full, so I went to sit in the balcony, like many others. There were perhaps more people who sat in the balcony rather than on the stage. (Yes, audiences were designed to sit on the stage, so the “balcony experience” was not expected by anyone, not even by the production team.) Unfortunately, I was not wearing my glasses, so seeing the play was difficult for me throughout Act I, as was hearing. Yet I was also fortunate enough to find a seat on the stage at the beginning of Act II. THE EXPERIENCE WAS COMPLETELY DIFFERENT!!! I was amazed by the wonderful harmony between sound, lights, props, and acting, and this play certainly became my favorite among all plays I’ve watched at Culver. P.S. my favorite part of this show besides its message was the funny “physical” magic done by the tech crew. A Personal Note Adam Joyce, Culver’s senior instructor in fine arts, was the director of the play. He chose this play not only for the high-school-age characters and the popularity of the Harry Potter theme, but also for the message that resonates with himself and this community. PUFFS: puffs fighting scene / Culver Academies 19
“Anything is possible at this age: different careers, different futures, all within your grasp; the play says we are all human, a part of a community; it’s important to remember being empathetic and celebrating everyone’s success” Joyce said. As the director, Joyce stopped providing acting notes (suggestions) for students to focus on collaborations with the technical team, but he was once again impressed by the students’ efforts in finding new moments to explore, adding details and nuances to their actions and facials to enrich the performance. The play continued to develop, and Joyce thinks this nature of expectancy makes theater “magical.” This also applies to a moment during Saturday’s performance, when a student twisted an ankle—the crew quickly reacted to the accident and the play continued smoothly. A new acting technique that Joyce introduced to this play was kinesthetic responses between actors (moving in response to others). His favorite scene was when all the actors were cheering on the dock, waiting for Cedrick (character) and almost losing confidence. “Then when Sally (character) points, everyone moved together and stopped together at the same time, same distance. It was fascinating. I am proud of the actors building this,” Joyce said. “In theater, things that people don’t say are more important than people do say, because what they are not saying is what they are thinking.” The actors also enjoyed this play. Noah Tomkins, CMA ’26, played the character of J. Finch Fletchly and Uncle Dave. He shared that this season taught him lots of skills, but more importantly, he carries respect to the crew and the cast for all the efforts put into one production. He especially loved the scene of Fletchley’s first realization of his imaginary identity. “It was a lot of fun having a time and place to go all-out dramatic. I focused mostly on facial expressions and physical movements like stumbling, falling on my knees, throwing a tissue, etc. The laughs I got from the audience in this scene and throughout the play are the fruits of my labor,” For the winter season, Culver theater is working on a film festival production, where students will direct, act, and do cinematography. A musical named Seussical is also planned for the spring season, and it will be directed by Jenna Odom, Culver’s senior instructor of vocal music. Noah Tomkins ‘26. end scene / Culver Academies 20
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A Magical Peek into Puffs After months of rehearsals and preparations, we were called an hour before the first show. The actors walked into the rehearsal space below the stage and got into our costumes. Sitting at my station between my cast mates, I did not feel anxious about our approaching performance. There wasn’t a reason to be; we tried many different approaches and rehearsed it so many times. It felt like this was our own show. I was standing with my fellow cast members behind a curtain, holding a fake baby, when I actually felt nervous. Adam Joyce, our director, was speaking to a huge audience, and I realized this was it. Our monthslong work was going to pay off. When I first read the script, I wasn’t sure how we were going to execute it because the play, “Puffs,” appeared wild and all over the place to me. This season would be my second time performing on a stage and the characters I was going to embody, Ernie Mac and Professor Turban, were extremely major roles for me. Fortunately, the team created an environment that fueled the incredible enthusiasm needed for a comedic play. Day by day, we worked on scenes and built the framework of the play. Rehearsals became the best part of my day since we were learning more about our characters and how to embrace our goofier sides. A story I will always remember is that during a rehearsal, two-thirds of the main trio were gone. Rather than letting this fact hinder our practice, other actors took turns playing those roles as we ran the show. It was so chaotic! People missed cues and started laughing in the middle of the lines. But the cast enjoyed an opportunity to have fun with the script, making new jokes and changes. A lot of the cast consider this rehearsal as one of our favorites. Nwanma Udokwu In the beginning, there were no props and only tape on the floor to represent our set, so I used a pen as a wand and hid behind non-existent walls. As a group, we came up with how we imagined the world was like and our character relationships. As my character Ernie Mac, I knew I was close to my fellow Puffs such as Hannah Abbot (Ava Hillman) or that I deeply admired Cedric Diggory (Mallory Schurz). On stage, I played with these dynamics. For instance, my character was in a relationship at the end of the seventh year since we studied interactions between the characters. We decided to put our own spin on Ernie and J Finch’s (Noah Tomkins) relationship, making their moments sweeter than before. The cast dances together / Culver Academies Ernie Mac and J. Finch fighting / Culver Academies 23
Green Men & Co. / Nwanma Udokwu The first act of the play was much longer than the second act, yet it went by so quickly. Every time the audience laughed at little quips, character moments, or physical comedy, I felt ecstatic. Backstage, we congratulated each other on those little successes and went with the flow when we stumbled. Our performance went extremely well, so well that we got to perform for a third time on Sunday due to having so many people come to see us. For the next two shows, we faced a few bumps along the way. For example, one of our green men (Bucket Youvan) got injured, preventing him from performing. But others were ready to help and pick up his cues so the performance could go on. I am proud of our perseverance and improv skills! During our final show on Sunday, we knew we had to perform with everything we had, despite having a smaller audience. Even if only one person watched, we would give it our all. The final bow was surreal for me. It always is because all the work we had ended at that very moment. Soon, the props and costumes were put away and the set was taken down and then, the curtains closed on “Puffs: Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic.” Reflecting on everything, “Puffs” was a wonderful experience. I will miss the cast dinners and the not-soquiet jokes we made behind set. This year, there were many new and old faces I grew close to during the process, and I really do want to keep in contact with everyone I got to know. Thank you to everyone who came to see us. I am sad it’s over but overjoyed it happened. Thank you for reading! Cast photo / Aiqiao Yan The Puffs celebrate / Culver Academies 24
IF JOURNALISM GOES DOWN, WE ALL GO DOWN: PRESERVING NEWS AND HUMANITY I entered Culver not knowing what journalism was. I now prepare to leave Culver ambitious to pursue journalism in higher education. But why become a journalist when the people closest to me have recommended I become a doctor or lawyer? Because journalism is dying, and human connection can’t go down with it. Journalism is much more than a creative outlet. Writing and reporting articles allows me to extend my voice to other individuals and their powerful testimonies through narration. The process of meeting new people, listening to their stories, capturing their emotions, and sharing their tales in my own unique creation enables me to learn from others and translate their words into compelling stories. Journalism has brought me to capture the experiences of Ukrainian refuges and transform their stories into compelling narratives for global audiences, opening their eyes to pressing issues and inspiring their advocacy for social justice. But it’s also led me to report on school plays and departing seniors on The Vedette. Whether reporting internationally or in a tight community, journalism informs and weaves together the threads of our shared humanity. “Local Journalism Is On The decline.” A journalist's desk at the New York Times office/Clover Choi According to a study by Northwestern University’s Medill journalism school, there are 204 counties in the United States with no local news outlet, and 1,562 with only one, usually a weekly newspaper. That’s more than half of the nation’s 3,143 counties. Local news may be seen as trivial if you prefer national news, but there are reasons why newspapers began on a local scale before spreading globally. The purpose of the local news in the 17th century was to notice current events and inform communities of happenings. Today, local news still serves the same purpose plus more. Regional writing fosters a sense of community by keeping residents informed about events, issues and developments directly affecting them, strengthening community ties and civic engagement. Local news sources also play a vital role in highlighting local authorities, businesses and institutions. By reporting on local matters, it ensures transparency and support to environments that are unique to the specific city, county or region. Without news providing information that is directly relevant to residents' daily lives, including communal events, businesses, schools and government decisions, the specific needs and interests of the community won’t be acknowledged and applauded. Clover Choi 25
While these are all reasons to strengthen why local journalism is vital to shaping community, I find that the most permanent impact of local journalism is the creation of a unique identity and culture through diverse perspectives. Local news outlets highlight distinctive voices, contributing to a diverse and nuanced understanding of local issues which is crucial for a healthy democratic discourse. Preserving local news safeguards local identity and culture. It celebrates achievements, milestones, and cultural events specific to the community. In essence, local news is an essential cornerstone of a well-informed and connected society, providing information that directly impacts people's lives and contributes to the overall health of communities. Without communities in society, we’ll turn into robots at a faster rate than we already are. Communities foster a sense of belonging and shared identity. Without these connections, there is a risk of diminished social cohesion and more social isolation. Social isolation will increase, and with an increase in alienation, individuals will feel detached from the broader society and its values. Communities often play a role in preserving and passing down cultural traditions. Without these communities, there may be a risk of cultural loss and a weakening of cultural identity. So, unless we want everything in this world to become AI generated, as writers and readers, we must aim to preserve humanity. Journalism is my contribution to individuals, communities, and society as one. One person’s story can go a long way--across oceans, nations, and into people’s hearts--creating lasting impressions, realizations, and support. Without journalists, these individuals’ accounts and remarks won’t reach communities; society will become disconnected. News readers also have a role in contributing to the unity of society that journalism fosters. One who reads the news should be willing to pay for it. As The Associated Press says, “Even when the news if free, journalism is not.” A free press is not free. From research to outreach, reporting, drafting, and editing, it takes hard work to report what is happening in the world. The passion and persistence to see your name in print is a whole separate ballgame. People should be willing to pay for credible and enlightening news. Because how else are you going to find out about community crime or the most recent public policy update. I believe that writers have a gift. A gift to not only report stories, but to advocate, inspire, promote, influence, teach, reflect and leave people thinking. The remaining journalists must help preserve humanity with the superpower of words. Whether through writing for the school newspaper or the most credible news agencies in the world, journalists make an impact. And so do readers! Readers reading evocative stories can act in social change, opportunities, issues, and accomplishments that arise through journalists’ stories. I’ve already begun contributing. And you, whether as a writer or reader, can contribute to saving journalism (and humanity) too. Inside the "Morgue" of the New York Times. The archives and history of journalism / Clover Choi 26
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The Israel-Hamas War: of Palestinians, and the destruction of their society, culture, identity, political rights, and national aspirations. We questioned the legitimacy of Israel’s claim on Palestine. On Nov. 29, 1947, the United Nations, under the command of Great Britain passed a resolution for the partition of Palestine between Arabs and Jews. However, what right does the United Nations have to give out land where millions of people already exist? While the establishment of a Jewish nation is important, it should never come at the cost of the life of millions. A member of Islamic Studies spent time with a middle eastern family over the summer where he learned more about their customs. To better understand the conflict, he contacted his friend who he lived with. Two Stories Members of Culver’s Islamic service gather for a picture / Kareemat Adeagbo In hopes of adding to the comments master humanities instructor Jen Cerny made at the all school meeting in October about the situation in Gaza, The Vedette invited students from Islamic Studies and Jewish Service to share their perspectives. Kareemat Adeagbo: The war will end. The leader will shake hands. The old woman will keep waiting for her martyred son. That girl will keep waiting for her beloved husband. And the children will wait for their heroic father, I don’t know who sold our homeland, But I saw who paid the price. -Mahmoud Darwis As airstrikes continue in Gaza, students in Islamic Studies conversed about different perspectives on the conflict. We watched a video by Rabbi Dovid Weiss, who denounced Israeli Zionists and their claim to Palestine. In the video, Rabbi Weiss declared Israeli occupation of Palestine as an extremist act without religious support. We learned about Palestinian history up until Nakba, the violent displacement and dispossession 28
In doing so, he was educated on the importance of mercy because “it is not necessarily just a black or white situation.” In discussing the topic at Islamic Studies, he commented, “seeing the different perspectives of both sides allowed him to form an informed opinion about the conflict.” I was inspired by our discussions and proceeded to read Mahmoud Darwish’s poem Write down, I Am an Arab. With the assistance of the Huffington library, I am working on a forum to discuss and learn about the long history of Israeli occupation of Palestine. The book Light in Gaza will be used to understand the history of Gaza, from the Nakba to present-day. Light in Gaza is a “wide-ranging anthology that includes new works by 11 Palestinian writers and poets”. It investigates the main query: Is it possible to envision a brighter future for Gaza as a component of a larger plan to put a stop to the Nakba through repatriation, rights restoration, and the realization of justice? Rae Brennan: “I believe we are much more connected throughout the group ; the service being student led creates a unique environment that is hard to find.” - Zachary Bernstein Ever since the occurring situation between Israel and Palestine people from many parts of the world are pained and sorrowful. An example that may feel closer to home is Culver Academies Jewish Service. With many members of the service having family in Israel and or Palestine everyone felt for one another. “The war grew tension between us at the beginning. We were all more focused on whose side to take rather than how we can support each other during these tough times” – Theo Heiman 26’ Quickly following the war, Culver’s Rabbi, Joshua Rubin, resigned from his position for undisclosed reasons. After his departure, it left Shabbat Services with no adult leader. However, Zachary Bernstein 26’ encouraged members to take leadership over their faith and not let difficult times stand in the way of what holds the congregation together. Since then, service has been dependent on the many members who have. Since then, the service has relied on the dedication of numerous members who have taken the initiative to organize it at the start and ensure everything is properly put away at the conclusion of each service. The service members also rely on each other for the duration of service to say prayers and sing songs. Additionally, since there’s no adult leader to keep the members respectful and engaged, the members hold themselves accountable for responsible leadership within the service. The Jewish community on campus has assumed significant leadership, both individually and collectively. With time, whether facing challenges or experiencing positive developments, it is hoped that they will persist in supporting one another. Several Jewish members of Culver’s community / Rae Brennan 29
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more burdens and responsibilities corresponding to his leadership position in the team. “The main role and responsibility are leading by example and doing all the right things on and off the court,” Galloway said. “I also need to be very vocal now that I am a veteran on the team. I have to bring along the younger guys and spread my knowledge of the game with them.” Mike Woodson, the current coach of the Indiana University basketball team, was also the team captain when he played for the Hoosiers. With a coach who had been in the same position as himself, Galloway looks up to Woodson not only as his coach but also as a former player who led his own team to success. “It is why he is so hard on me because he sees something in me that he saw in himself when he was captain,” Galloway said. Culver Graduate Becomes Co-Captain of the Indiana University Basketball Team Chengxi (McQueen) Huang Trey Galloway ’20 says his experience of being a student at Culver Military Academy and being captain of the basketball team here laid the foundation for him being selected co-captain of the Indiana University team this season. “Although Culver was not easy, I really learned toughness,” Galloway said. “Mainly mental toughness because Culver pushed you to do more than what you think you were capable of doing, which I brought with me to Indiana. I am so appreciative of all that Culver did to prepare me for IU as it helped tremendously through my four years at Indiana University.” As co-captain along with teammate Xavier Johnson, Galloway was asked to lead a team with talented and dedicated players. Unlike most members of the team, he carries Trey Galloway/ Cam Schultz 31
During the years at Culver, Galloway led the varsity basketball team as the captain for two years. The team won its first state basketball championship in 3A his sophomore season and made it to the title game again his junior year. During Galloway’s senior year, the team won a sectional title while the season was later forced to stop due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “I had a big-time leadership role with the team to try and help us win,” Galloway said. Mark Galloway, father of Trey Galloway and the head coach of the basketball program of CMA, also had a profound impact on the younger Galloway and other basketball players in the program. “I think he [Mark Galloway] has made a great impact on Culver and the basketball program as he cares so much about his players and the team,” Trey Galloway said. As Galloway added the co-captain of the basketball team at Indiana University to his list of responsibilities, he continues to utilize the lessons and experience at Culver to become the best player and leader he can be and demonstrates his unique identity as a Culver alumnus. CMA leads the way! Trey Galloway/ Trey Galoway 32
Two weeks after their first practice, CGA swimming competed in their first meet, with the CMA swim team cheering them on from the sidelines and celebrated an Eagle victory over NorthWood High School. Culver’s swimming program is deep-rooted in the school’s history, swimming in the Lowenstine Natatorium, built in 1917. CMA swimming, which had its first practice on Nov. 6, is led by co-captains Jack Collins and Eamon Seeley, and the CGA swim team, which began practicing two weeks earlier than the boys, is led by co-captains Keri Teglia and Erin Zhu. The 59-athlete team has an action-packed season in store, competing with many other local high schools. The Culver swim team is known for its friendly and supportive environment. Cecilia Eggebraten, CGA ’27, who has swum competitively for more than 10 years is in her first season with the CGA swim team. Andrew J. Chen 2023-24 Culver Swim & Dive Team / Culver Academies Starting The Season With A Splash CMA/CGA Swimming CGA vs. SB Adams / Culver Academies 33
“I think the new guys on the team are going to make a huge difference. We’ve always had strong upperclassman that have led the team and been very fast, so it’s nice to see new guys come in that can also take on that role,” he says. The CMA and CGA swim teams compete at 16 swim meets this season. “The team environment is my favorite part of the Culver swim team because you will always have someone cheering you on at the other end of the pool,” she says. “We have great leadership with our team captains and are off to a successful start! I know we will continue to build on this throughout the season.” Eamon Seeley, CMA ’24 and Jack Collins, CMA ’25, CMA swimming co-captains, agree with Eggebraten. “I really like the team culture we have built over the past few years, and I can tell it is going to continue to be a great environment this season,” Seeley says. “[I’m excited to] continue to build on the team culture and work that we’ve had the years we’ve been on the team,” Collins says. Seeley and Collins are confident that they will help lead this year’s team to success. “The way we have been practicing so far this year makes me feel like everyone will keep getting stronger as the season goes on and helping each other improve,” Seeley says. Collins agrees. “The team environment is my favorite part of the Culver swim team because you will always have someone cheering you on at the other end of the pool.” Cecilia Eggebraten, CGA ‘27 “I think the new guys on the team are going to make a huge difference.” Jack Collins, CMA ‘25 CGA Swimming Celebrating a Victory at Wawasee on Dec. 9 CGA Swimming Celebrating a Victory at Wawasee on Dec. 9 / Coach Brown Coach Brown Culver vs. SB Adams / Culver Academies CGA Won the Invite! / Mingyan Zhou 34
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Having the largest team in years, CMA wrestlers are off to a thrilling start. At the Mike Atwood Memorial Invitational at Delphi High School over Thanksgiving break, Cole Meiser ’26 won first place at 126 pounds and George Bondarenko ’26 placed third at 190 pounds. Coach Patrick Mulkerin said the team is “young and inexperienced,” because many did not start wrestling until high school. But he sees potential. Mulkerin wrestled in high school and college, accumulating valuable firsthand experience. Mulkerin and assistant coach Scott Sweet-Christian have been using their expertise to help the newcomers. He says the wrestlers “push each other every day” for improvement. The large team size, as Mulkerin noted, is both “a blessing and a curse,” as it poses a challenge for managing. Meanwhile, the teammates also formed tight bonds with each other. Whether it be for novices trying a new sport or experienced wrestlers getting in shape again after almost a year, the beginning of the season is especially demanding. Supporting each other through wins and losses, the The Power of Camaraderie: Supportive Wrestling Team Gears Up for Future Triumphs Ashley Zheng Wrestling Varsity Team Photo / Culver Academies wrestlers fostered an uplifting environment—like a “tight-woven fabric,” as described by Spencer Reagan ’24, who wrestles at 215. Reagan and Brady Standfast ’27, who wrestles at 120, all highlighted the wrestlers’ camaraderie. “There's a unique satisfaction in pushing your limits alongside teammates, and the bonds formed through shared struggles make victories even more special,” Reagan said. JV Wrestling Match / Culver Academies 36
Culver VS. Knox / Culver Academies Standfast said the team energy is “ecstatic.” “When one person wins, everyone cheers for him and gets genuinely excited,” Standfast said. “We inspire each other to work hard and get better.” As many wrestlers participate in other spring or fall sports, they noticed similarities and differences across athletic events. Reagan, who committed to Dartmouth College for lacrosse, said that both sports “share a common thread of promoting discipline and teamwork.” For him, lacrosse cultivates his hand-eye coordination, while in wrestling, “strategic maneuvering” is more important. On the mat, the biggest challenge he had faced was mastering mental resilience. Over the years, he had learned to overcome “self-doubt” in intense matches. Job Mavrick ’26, a three-sport athlete who runs track, plays football, and has been wrestling for five years, said wrestling is a “everyday grind.” However, he also noted that teammates who learn together to develop better focus and challenge each other to “put in maximum effort” had helped him persist. Standfast noticed similar demands on resilience, saying " After meets I can barely move, and my muscles are sore for days.” Wrestling has trained his “mental and physical toughness.” At the competition against Knox High School, Standfast brought back the first team-win. Knowing that his competitor was skilled, Standfast set the goal to be “mentally tough and wrestle smart.” In retrospect, Standfast believed that it was his attitude that helped him win, and thanked his supportive teammates. There’s truly nothing better than being on a great team that is like a second family. Go wrestlers! JV Wrestling Matches / Culver Academies 37
The Vedette is featuring a pair of sophomore athletes at Culver for the month of November, swimmer Summer Liu from Hangzhou, China, and U16 hockey player Max Davis from Middleton, Wisconsin. “Liu is a hard worker that always has great energy and positivity. She is always looking for ways to improve. She was successful last year through championships; She is the proudest of her 100-meter backstroke record. I have high hopes for her to do even better this year,” said Coach Sarah Youvan. “Davis is a new student that came here from Wisconsin. He has brought some great energy to the team and a mindset of putting the team first. He is well liked and looked up to by his teammates. He competes hard each night and is always looking and striving to get better. He is a hard-working kid with exceptional integrity,” said Coach Nick Tomczyk Davis: I have always loved the game of hockey from a young age. I really love the people you meet and the family that you make from the game. I am still friends with some of the kids who were on my hockey them when I was young and that is all because of the bonds that you make from the amazing game. What do you love about your sport? Rising Athletes Prajna Tammana Liu: Swimming isn’t just a sport but rather a community to me. Relays were what got me to love swimming, because I knew I wasn’t swimming on my own and my team was going to support me even when I didn’t swim my best time. I also love the feeling of accomplishment after finishing a hard workout in the pool. Max Davis on the rink / picsbymrmo 38
Liu: I usually listen to more intense music and stretch before a swim meet (energy drink does help:). What do you to do get ready before a meet or game? Davis: My go-to move before a hockey game is sleeping and listening to music. It might sound basic and boring but, it's what gets me ready for the game and makes sure I am the best I can be. Summer Liu swimming in the pool / picsbymrmo Max Davis in hockey game / picsbymrmo Summer swimming / Emily Guo ‘26 Liu: I think the Culver swim team has a very positive and supportive environment, and I love that everyone on the team cheers for their teammates during a swim event. Also, our swim coach, Coach Youvan, cares about us a lot. She always wants to know how we are doing in school or in person. Additionally, I love when our hair freezes after practice in the winter. What would you say about your team environment Davis: The Culver 16u Environment is unbelievable and amazing in every way possible. It is so welcoming, and it was so easy to get settled into Culver. I have only been with the team for 3 months and the bonds we have already is so amazing. 39
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