Crescent Times

The most important issue facing boys in today’s society, and therefore in the institution that strives to prepare

them for that society, is the concept of true masculinity. No other issue permeates all aspects of a boy’s life than the con-cepts of manhood that he is for-mulating in his development.

The Upper School has em-ployed many tactics this year to address this issue. You may not have heard of them or recog-nized them, because they live in the cloaked existence embed-ded in other initiatives.

We worked with the Grads at the beginning of the year to help them develop an initiative to eliminate verbal slurs, partic-ularly homophobic slurs, from the student vocabulary.

We have had peer-led-discus-sions, where Grads have openly discussed their challenging journey through adolescence.

We had speakers in to highlight the White Ribbon campaign, raise awareness about gender differences, human traffick-ing, and the objectification of women.

Brian Burke and Brad May came in to speak to the boys about Brian’s late son, who was gay. Their message expanded to encompass the marginalization of any group, and stressed the importance of the bystander.

Now, on Monday, Feb. 25, the man who does the best job I’ve seen on masculinity, Joe Ehrmann, will come in and work with the faculty during a morning workshop, and speak with the boys at the Upper School assembly.

Joe’s message evolved from his own transformative journey

which led him to the question that has defined his work since the death of his younger brother over 40 years ago: What does it mean to be a man?

Joe contextualizes this by beginning with what he calls the three lies that society teaches boys about what it means to be a man. Boys are constantly inundated with these false im-ages through the Internet, music, movies and television.

In Joe’s view, society teaches boys that their success as a man can be measured by: how strong, powerful and athletic they are, how sexually successful they are in seducing young women, and in how much material wealth they have attained.

Joe will speak with the boys about what he feels are the only two criteria that make you a man. The first is the ability to love and be loved; a man’s ability to gain and sustain authentic, genuine, loving relationships. The second is the degree to which a man has taken on a cause in life. A cause that is greater that one’s own self-interest, and that makes the world a better place. These two

things are what defines a real man in Joe’s eyes.

His message had a profound effect on the Crescent communi-ty when he was the inaugural Stransman Speaker on character and leadership through sport in 2007.

I know that he will have a tremendous impact on the boys again, and I encourage each of you to make a note to engage your son in dialogue after Joe’s visit on the 25th of February.

—Steve Dubrick, Director of Character and Leadership

Volume 16 Issue 7 February 14, 2013

JOE ERHMANN is BACK at CRESCENT, 25TH of FEB.

Crescent School | 2365 Bayview Ave. Toronto, ON M2L 1A2 | 416.449.2556 | www.crescentschool.org

The most important issue facing boys in today’s society, and therefore in the institution that strives to prepare

them for that society, is the concept of true masculinity. No other issue permeates all aspects of a boy’s life than the con-cepts of manhood that he is for-mulating in his development.

The Upper School has em-ployed many tactics this year to address this issue. You may not have heard of them or recog-nized them, because they live in the cloaked existence embed-ded in other initiatives.

We worked with the Grads at the beginning of the year to help them develop an initiative to eliminate verbal slurs, partic-ularly homophobic slurs, from the student vocabulary.

We have had peer-led-discus-sions, where Grads have openly discussed their challenging journey through adolescence.

We had speakers in to highlight the White Ribbon campaign, raise awareness about gender differences, human traffick-ing, and the objectification of women.

Brian Burke and Brad May came in to speak to the boys about Brian’s late son, who was gay. Their message expanded to encompass the marginalization of any group, and stressed the importance of the bystander.

Now, on Monday, Feb. 25, the man who does the best job I’ve seen on masculinity, Joe Ehrmann, will come in and work with the faculty during a morning workshop, and speak with the boys at the Upper School assembly.

Joe’s message evolved from his own transformative journey

which led him to the question that has defined his work since the death of his younger brother over 40 years ago: What does it mean to be a man?

Joe contextualizes this by beginning with what he calls the three lies that society teaches boys about what it means to be a man. Boys are constantly inundated with these false im-ages through the Internet, music, movies and television.

In Joe’s view, society teaches boys that their success as a man can be measured by: how strong, powerful and athletic they are, how sexually successful they are in seducing young women, and in how much material wealth they have attained.

Joe will speak with the boys about what he feels are the only two criteria that make you a man. The first is the ability to love and be loved; a man’s ability to gain and sustain authentic, genuine, loving relationships. The second is the degree to which a man has taken on a cause in life. A cause that is greater that one’s own self-interest, and that makes the world a better place. These two

things are what defines a real man in Joe’s eyes.

His message had a profound effect on the Crescent communi-ty when he was the inaugural Stransman Speaker on character and leadership through sport in 2007.

I know that he will have a tremendous impact on the boys again, and I encourage each of you to make a note to engage your son in dialogue after Joe’s visit on the 25th of February.

—Steve Dubrick, Director of Character and Leadership

Volume 16 Issue 7 February 14, 2013

JOE ERHMANN is BACK at CRESCENT, 25TH of FEB.

Crescent School | 2365 Bayview Ave. Toronto, ON M2L 1A2 | 416.449.2556 | www.crescentschool.org

2 Men of Character from Boys of Promise

ADVANCEMENT NEWS

BIG AIR

It took four days to create and install and included over 1,600 balloons, and when the 2013 Toronto Interior Design Show

at the Metro Convention Centre opened on January 24, the first thing event goers saw was Willy Chyr ’05’s incredible bal-loon installation, suspended from the ceiling. As Luck Would Have It, has created significant buzz within the Toronto com-munity, earning Willy a spot in Toronto Life’s Top 25 Products to See at the 2013 Interior Design Show, as well as a large pho-to and write up on the front page of the Entertainment section in the Toronto Star. Willy has never received as much publicity.

The Crescent community has keenly followed Wil-ly’s career as an artist. A graduate of the University of Chicago, Willy earned a BA in Physics and Eco-nomics. From there, he started work in the mar-keting department of an advertising company in Chicago, while continuing to showpiece his balloon sculptures at local art festivals. Before long, his art became more than just a hobby.

Willy noted that 2012 had been a very busy and successful year. Among many highlights, he is particularly proud of his

work with Beck’s Brewery. Last May, Beck’s commissioned Willy to be one of six artists to create a unique label that would be featured on a series of limited edition art bottles. Willy’s piece, A Glimpse of Something Ephemeral, was featured on Beck’s beer labels across the entire US.

His year ended with the December 2012 installation of A Handful of Stardust at the Telus Spark Science Centre in Cal-gary, Alberta. Showcasing his work in a science centre has been a goal of Willy’s, and he is thrilled to be able to mark that

milestone so early in his career.

2013 is shaping up to be even more successful for the promising artist. Willy is back in Chicago beginning to prep for his next big project, a six-month contract with the

Swatch Art Peace Hotel in Shanghai, where he will be an art-ist-in-residence, living and working among other artists from around the world.

You can follow Willy’s exciting path and view his work on his website willychyr.com and his blog willychyr.com/blog.

3Men of Character from Boys of Promise

What is the role of the Den? Last year as a new parent and Den volunteer, I thought I knew the answer. Now as the CPA Den Chair, I understand it more fully. The Den is here to provide a service to the parents, boys and staff; to engage volunteers in school life and to raise money for the School.

How do we fulfill our mandate? By asking questions and making decisions that stay true to the Den’s purpose. Questions such as….. How are the Den products chosen?The CPA Den Chair and Den Manager choose a core group of products that meet the everyday needs of families whether it is school supplies, spirit, uniform or House items. We always know when there is a math test by the rush of calculator sales that occur about five minutes prior to the test’s beginning!

Suggestions for additional items are often given by the boys, volunteers and staff. Recently, the Upper School Uniform Committee asked for a cardigan. A design was decided upon by the Committee, sourced by the Den and delivered to large appeal. Come spring, watch for the new Upper School short-sleeved polo. The Den is also assisting the EAC (Environmental Action Committee) with the purchase of a new water bottle, which will be metal or BPA-free plastic, leak-proof, and is easy to fill at the water stations. It will be available soon.

Being a small shop, we do not get the price benefits that come from purchasing in large quantity like our commercial

competitors. Additional charges like set-up fees, delivery etc. are added to the item cost, and determine what we are able to sell items for. Our profit is modest and well below the retail industry standard.

Donations of used uniforms are greatly appreciated. All items are professionally dry cleaned, sorted and checked to ensure they are in excellent shape. Used uniform items are always available for sale.

The Den offers convenience for boys and parents with a wide array of products and easy access. We are grateful for your support as it assists in enhancing school life.

What are the proceeds from the Den sales used for?Proceeds from the Den are being put towards fulfilling the pledge the CPA has made to the Great Boys campaign. All costs associated with running the Den are absorbed by the School.

What is the best thing about the Den?…our volunteers are the best. We have a dedicated group of parents, many with years of service. I asked our volunteers what they gain from their Den experience. Some of their thoughtful answers were, “I enjoy the direct contact with the boys and teachers”; “I have met a lot of other great parents, some who have sons in my child’s grade.”

Sadly, we say good-bye to a few volunteers every year as their sons graduate. If you would like to join us for next year, please sign up in the Green Room as we would love to have you.

—Jennie Ferguson, CPA Den Chair

CPA NEWS

COYOTE’S DEN IS AT YOUR SERVICE


PROFILE Jerry Hesse, Lower School Faculty

Where were you before Crescent?Originally I am from Grande Prairie, Alberta and I taught there for 7 years at a public school. I then moved to Toronto and taught for 1 year at Bayview Glen and seven years at Villanova College.

What do you teach? I am currently teaching Grade 5 and 6 Health and Physical Education, but have taught science and math before.

Did you have a favourite teacher? Who was it and why were they your favourite?My favourite teacher was Mr. Kornder. He was my Grade 7 science teacher and I enjoyed his style of teaching. He was dynamic, and made it very interesting as he related the content to our lives. He then was an influence later in my schooling as he became my high school football coach and mentor.

How are you liking Crescent?I am loving it here at Crescent. The staff have been very welcoming, and everyone is willing to help out and make the transition here easier. Crescent is a great fit for me, coming from a small town you really appreciate the sense of community and you really feel the sense of community here from the parents, students and staff.

The CPA is looking for parents to fill some committee and coordinator positions for next year. Nominations for

these positions will run from February 19 – March 1 and we welcome you to participate.

We are pleased to announce Lynn Porter Zechner as the incoming Vice President who will join Tara Borg (incoming President) to lead the CPA for the 2013/2014 school year. The CPA depends on many new and existing dedicated vol-unteers to work with the School to build Crescent’s unique sense of community. We invite you to get involved. No ex-perience is necessary and all parents are eligible for any of the open CPA positions.

All parents will receive a letter on February 19 that will outline the open committee and coordinator positions. Job descrip-tions for each will be posted in the Green Room on the same

day. Please review them, and indicate your interest by follow-ing the Green Room link or by contacting any member of the Nominations Committee directly. Also, please feel free to let us know of other parents who may be interested and/or suited to a position by nominating them.

Members of the Nominating Committee are happy to answer questions or provide more information about joining the CPA so please feel free to contact us.

CPA NOMINATIONS COMMITTEEAnne Marie Mayne [email protected]

Mary Wellner [email protected] Borg [email protected]

Lynn Porter Zechner [email protected] Baumann [email protected]

CPA NEWS continued

CPA COMMITTEE AND COORDINATOR POSITIONS 2013/2014


What’s your favorite thing about Crescent?Our core values, and how we actually teach, preach and live them here. They are not just words on a wall or in print somewhere that get ignored most of the time.

What do you do in your class that is specific to boys’ learning?That part is pretty easy for me. Teaching Health and Physical Education we all know that boys can have a tremendous amount of curiosity and energy and in my class I encourage boys to ask questions and try new things as well as release some of that energy. I try to expose them to many different activities so they can hopefully find that one thing that they will enjoy long term, as well as help them to be healthy and happy for life.

If you changed professions, what would you do?The little boy in me would like to be a pilot. I always thought it would be interesting to see all the different places that your job would take you. There is something about being up in the air flying that just feels so free. I think I

would love that.

Big fish in a small pond or small fish in a big pond?I came from a small town so I would have to say big fish, small pond. That is just what my experience is. Although now that I am in Toronto it has flipped, but my gut instinct stays with where I was raised. Are not the childhood memories always the most powerful?

Of what are you most afraid?Not taking full advantage of what life has to offer, and getting stuck in a rut or routine. I like to try and take in as many life experiences as possible and really enjoy life.

What is your greatest joy?Quality time with family, and friends that are like family.

Favourite movie or book?Such a hard question to just pick one. I love movies or books that entertain and challenge your thinking at the same time. I do enjoy Dan Brown so I am going to say Angels and Demons since I read it just after I visited Rome so I could imagine all the places suggested in the book.

If you were a professional athlete who would you be?Michael Jordan without a doubt for his fierce drive to improve, and his fear of not succeeding.

What changes have you seen during your career? Or do you expect to see?The biggest changes I have seen is in the culture or way society is. You don’t see as many kids able to just play without adult structure or supervision, and of course the infusion of technology. Those two things have drastically changed teaching and kids.

If you could change one thing about Crescent, what would it be?Location. If we could just move it to a more tropical location with more space to park cars I think we could not be beat.

Describe the perfect day at Crescent.Pretty simple I show up and teach my classes where the kids feel comfortable to take risks and make mistakes while always being supported by their classmates, and living by our core values. Oh yeah and it is a constant 23.5 degrees outside with the sun shining and no wind!

MATH LEAGUE

We had another two great showings at the fourth Math League, with many returning writers as well as some new faces. The current individual standings are as follows:

Massey remains in first place this month, with Hudson and Simcoe tied for second.

The Math League is a great way not only to improve in math, but also find enjoyment in solving problems. Students from all grades are welcome, and House points are earned by all writers. I encourage everyone to come out again and write the next Math League on Tuesday, March 5.

—Jorgen Wong, Grade 12

1. Kevin Chien, Grade 12 20 2. S. Whittaker-Lee, Grade 12 193. Warfa Jibril, Grade 12 17 4. Chester Davison, Grade 12 154. Nicholas Lao, Grade 12 15

6. Jorgen Wong, Grade 12 146. Quinton Yau, Grade 12 148. Max Liu Grade 10 139. Jake Fisher, Grade 11 129. Jack Hayward, Grade 12 12

9. Nicholas Mehta, Grade 12 129. Ryan Tam, Grade 11 129. Winston Xing, Grade 10 12

MASSEY 90 HUDSON 78 SIMCOE 78


As you know, this weekend marks the Family Day long weekend. In Manitoba, where I am from, the holiday is

called Louis Riel Day.

It was a coincidence, therefore, to receive a parcel in the mail from my Dad this week, containing all kinds of family mem-orabilia (much more in keeping with the theme of Ontario’s holiday, than Manitoba’s). The handwritten note said he was “downsizing” and he was going through his papers, files and trinkets and thought I would like to have these items that be-longed to my grandmother and great-grandmother.

I don’t mind admitting that my first reaction to receiving these letters, cards, recipes, etc. was panic, especially since my Dad turns 80 this November. Why did he feel the need to give these away? Why didn’t he still want them? What was the rush? What prompted this sudden desire to do some housecleaning? And, at the very back of my mind... is there something going on I don’t know about?

If you don’t live in the same city as your parents, or close rela-tives, you will understand exactly what emotions I was going through. When I travel back to Winnipeg, I always assume that things will be exactly as I left them, in the same place. Family members will not have aged and places will not have changed.

I suddenly needed to hear my Dad’s voice, convinced that

if I heard him talk, I would know instantly if something was amiss. I got through right away and Dad was delighted to hear from me (note to self, call more often). He said he wanted to make sure that his family’s recorded history was distributed between his four children, and as the eldest, I might like to have these yellowed and fragile letters and recipe books in the delicate and flowery handwriting of the family matriarchs. Dad then said that a silver teapot and some mismatched, but well-loved teacups and saucers, were on the way. I told him that of course I wanted these items and I thanked him for sending them on. We had a great chat, and that was that.

I did not have the courage to ask if there was a deeper meaning to this sudden housekeeping; but I have resolved to call more often, even if only for a few moments.

You are never too old to learn from your parents. This week, Dad reminded me of the importance of sharing one’s family history and staying in touch with those we love, no matter how busy we feel we are.

Try to take the time this Monday to sit down with your chil-dren and share family stories, look at old photo albums, review family movies and call parents, grandparents and family mem-bers that are far away. I am certain you will not regret it.

—Dr. Boyes, Head of Lower School

From the Middle School

From the Lower School

SCHOOL MESSAGES

As we live our centennial year at Crescent it is a time that makes us naturally reflective. We, as the Crescent com-

munity look back to see all we have done and look forward to imagine who we want to become. It also makes us look at who we are—right now, today.

I have no desire to infer that we are perfect or that there aren’t some things that we want to, are excited to, improve on—it is important to be honest that there are things to develop and it is reflective of a community that wants to get better and be the best it can be. However there are moments when you can’t fake who you are as a community and that show you quite clearly who you are.

Last week in the Middle School we hosted the CAIS U13 Basketball Tournament and at the same time pulled the curtain up on our Middle School play Julius Caesar. It happened dur-

ing the height of our admissions season in which many of our boys are ambassadors, and a few days before we hosted the Kids’ Lit Quiz National Finals.

In that mix of busyness, tiredness, complexity and demand, it is impossible not to reveal your true character, particularly if you are 12 and 13. These were moments that required our boys to step out of comfort zones, to put visitors first, to be competitive but sporting, to create relationships, to support peers, to cope with stress.

It required discernment and support from parents, it required encouragement and motivation from teachers, and it required courage to fail, and to not give up, from our boys.

It was a proud moment to see the natural way we came to-gether as a Middle School community to make these last two weeks so successful, fun and exciting for our boys. They have


This is my second, and last, column related to course selec-tion: we have received a number of questions overwhelm-

ingly focused on similar themes, and so I thought it could be helpful to provide a summary of those conversations for ev-eryone.

By far the bulk of your questions centred on summer school. I think we all agree that kids should be allowed to be kids in the summer for as long as possible. However, having said that, there are some advantages to spending part of the summer in school. For students who are targeting math/science intensive university programs, completing some credits in the summer can make accumulating all of the necessary prerequisites more manageable, particularly if a student wishes to retain a second language or has broader interests. In addition, for students who may find a particular subject challenging, there are obvious ad-vantages to being able to focus on only that subject every day for a month. Finally, some programs offer a rich experience involving overseas travel and cultural immersion that can be especially valuable, particularly in languages.

Now for the main caution: through many years’ experience, we have learned that quality can vary dramatically among sum-mer school providers. Because of this, we strongly recommend that students take math and English, which are fundamental to university success, here at Crescent, if possible in the regular year program, and if not, then in our summer program. We are

confident that, in this way, students will be well prepared for whichever university program they undertake. We have wit-nessed over the years students take these subjects with some outside providers and achieve impressive results only to strug-gle later in university because of inadequate preparation.

The second concern has to do with closing doors through not selecting certain courses. It’s important to note that there re-ally is no such thing as a “closed door” in high school. My advice generally is for students to take those courses that they most enjoy and in which they are most engaged; this will al-most always result in strong marks—the kind of results that we will all be happy to present to universities. If a student should discover later a new passion for a field in which they lack a pre-requisite, almost all universities offer qualifying programs. The worst case is usually that a student may require an additional year to complete university. Today, students are younger than ever when they enter university; there is nothing to necessarily rush toward, and an extra year as an undergraduate is far from the end of the world. Our young men will have the whole rest of their lives to work.

Over the last two columns, I have provided my responses to the three main questions arising out of the course selection evenings. I hope my thoughts and reflections prove useful as you and your sons deliberate.

—Mr. Lowndes, Head of Upper School

From the Upper School

learned things about themselves and enjoyed experiences that will guide them for years.

I have been inundated with feedback from visiting teams, au-dience members, parents and other boys about how much they were inspired by the atmosphere and experience they had whilst here.

We have much to do in the Middle School; many things we need to get better at. We want to show more wisdom about how to support our boys through these years.

But as we consider these areas of growth it was lovely to know that as we celebrate our centennial year, we can look forward to that growth on top of a strong and vibrant com-munity that cares for each other and supports each other.

Thank you for your role in making the last couple of weeks amongst the best learning moments I have been part of at Crescent.

—Mr. Young, Head of Middle School

WHO IS THAT GUY?? Thighs of Steel makes a surprise visit to Crescent in support of the School’s annual Race for Dignity, and... to show off of course.

Mayamiko Ongah is 18-years-old and HIV+. He learned of his sta-

tus when he was in secondary school.

His mother encouraged him to stay de-termined and to continue his education. “She said, ‘My son, don’t worry, one day you will achieve,’” explained Mayamiko.

Although his mother has since passed away, Mayamiko continues to be mo-tivated by the nurses and doctors who have provided him with care during periods of illness, which most recently included minor paralysis and difficulties with his eyesight.

In November 2010, Mayamiko joined the Teen Club at Tisungane HIV/AIDS Clinic at Zomba Central Hospital. At that time, he was a patient on the ward. Now, he is responding well to treatment and feeling better. “Now, at least I’m walking myself,” he described. “I can go back to school.”

Teens not only receive their follow up care during the monthly Saturday morn-ing Teen Club, but also discuss issues re-

lated to sexual and reproductive health, adherence, and grief and bereavement.

“You feel lonely, and you say, ‘Oh Lord, why me? I got positive, and I have no friends.’ But now, see, we got more friends. We have hope that we are so many, and one day we will do some-thing, we will achieve something… I feel so good. I have so many friends.”

In January 2011, Mayamiko met Dr. James Orbinski (pictured), one of Digni-tas’s co-founders, when James attended a meeting of the Teen Club. “You are just incredibly hopeful,” James said to Mayamiko, “you have HIV, but you still have beautiful hope for life.” Mayamiko replied, “I know that one day, I will go in the field of medicine. I’ll help others. Right now, the doctors are busy helping me. One day, I’ll help others. And I will tell them my story.”

A “VIRTUAL” RACE from Cairo, EGYPT to Zomba, MALAWITHEME: Positive energy—creating it, harnessing it and sharing it!WHO: Students, parents, alumsWHEN: Thursday, April 4 (9:30 – 2)WHERE: Field House WHY: To support Dignitas’s Prevention of Mother-to-Child HIV Transmission program & their Teen Club (see below) AND Right To Play’s weekly sport and play-based programming, educating children about HIV/AIDS & peaceful conflict resolution.HOW:

•Create a team of three people•Register your team online (Green Room)•Bring one bike per team •Setup your bike on the Wednesday •Minimum contribution is $50/rider

Thanking you in advance for supporting Crescent's fourth annual Race for Dignity!

DIGNITAS TEEN CLUB: MEMBER INSPIRED TO HELP OTHERS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS


ADVANCEMENT NEWS

BIG AIR

It took four days to create and install and included over 1,600 balloons, and when the 2013 Toronto Interior Design Show

at the Metro Convention Centre opened on January 24, the first thing event goers saw was Willy Chyr ’05’s incredible bal-loon installation, suspended from the ceiling. As Luck Would Have It, has created significant buzz within the Toronto com-munity, earning Willy a spot in Toronto Life’s Top 25 Products to See at the 2013 Interior Design Show, as well as a large pho-to and write up on the front page of the Entertainment section in the Toronto Star. Willy has never received as much publicity.

The Crescent community has keenly followed Wil-ly’s career as an artist. A graduate of the University of Chicago, Willy earned a BA in Physics and Eco-nomics. From there, he started work in the mar-keting department of an advertising company in Chicago, while continuing to showpiece his balloon sculptures at local art festivals. Before long, his art became more than just a hobby.

Willy noted that 2012 had been a very busy and successful year. Among many highlights, he is particularly proud of his

work with Beck’s Brewery. Last May, Beck’s commissioned Willy to be one of six artists to create a unique label that would be featured on a series of limited edition art bottles. Willy’s piece, A Glimpse of Something Ephemeral, was featured on Beck’s beer labels across the entire US.

His year ended with the December 2012 installation of A Handful of Stardust at the Telus Spark Science Centre in Cal-gary, Alberta. Showcasing his work in a science centre has been a goal of Willy’s, and he is thrilled to be able to mark that

milestone so early in his career.

2013 is shaping up to be even more successful for the promising artist. Willy is back in Chicago beginning to prep for his next big project, a six-month contract with the

Swatch Art Peace Hotel in Shanghai, where he will be an art-ist-in-residence, living and working among other artists from around the world.

You can follow Willy’s exciting path and view his work on his website willychyr.com and his blog willychyr.com/blog.


What is the role of the Den? Last year as a new parent and Den volunteer, I thought I knew the answer. Now as the CPA Den Chair, I understand it more fully. The Den is here to provide a service to the parents, boys and staff; to engage volunteers in school life and to raise money for the School.

How do we fulfill our mandate? By asking questions and making decisions that stay true to the Den’s purpose. Questions such as….. How are the Den products chosen?The CPA Den Chair and Den Manager choose a core group of products that meet the everyday needs of families whether it is school supplies, spirit, uniform or House items. We always know when there is a math test by the rush of calculator sales that occur about five minutes prior to the test’s beginning!

Suggestions for additional items are often given by the boys, volunteers and staff. Recently, the Upper School Uniform Committee asked for a cardigan. A design was decided upon by the Committee, sourced by the Den and delivered to large appeal. Come spring, watch for the new Upper School short-sleeved polo. The Den is also assisting the EAC (Environmental Action Committee) with the purchase of a new water bottle, which will be metal or BPA-free plastic, leak-proof, and is easy to fill at the water stations. It will be available soon.

Being a small shop, we do not get the price benefits that come from purchasing in large quantity like our commercial

competitors. Additional charges like set-up fees, delivery etc. are added to the item cost, and determine what we are able to sell items for. Our profit is modest and well below the retail industry standard.

Donations of used uniforms are greatly appreciated. All items are professionally dry cleaned, sorted and checked to ensure they are in excellent shape. Used uniform items are always available for sale.

The Den offers convenience for boys and parents with a wide array of products and easy access. We are grateful for your support as it assists in enhancing school life.

What are the proceeds from the Den sales used for?Proceeds from the Den are being put towards fulfilling the pledge the CPA has made to the Great Boys campaign. All costs associated with running the Den are absorbed by the School.

What is the best thing about the Den?…our volunteers are the best. We have a dedicated group of parents, many with years of service. I asked our volunteers what they gain from their Den experience. Some of their thoughtful answers were, “I enjoy the direct contact with the boys and teachers”; “I have met a lot of other great parents, some who have sons in my child’s grade.”

Sadly, we say good-bye to a few volunteers every year as their sons graduate. If you would like to join us for next year, please sign up in the Green Room as we would love to have you.

—Jennie Ferguson, CPA Den Chair

CPA NEWS

COYOTE’S DEN IS AT YOUR SERVICE


PROFILE Jerry Hesse, Lower School Faculty

Where were you before Crescent?Originally I am from Grande Prairie, Alberta and I taught there for 7 years at a public school. I then moved to Toronto and taught for 1 year at Bayview Glen and seven years at Villanova College.

What do you teach? I am currently teaching Grade 5 and 6 Health and Physical Education, but have taught science and math before.

Did you have a favourite teacher? Who was it and why were they your favourite?My favourite teacher was Mr. Kornder. He was my Grade 7 science teacher and I enjoyed his style of teaching. He was dynamic, and made it very interesting as he related the content to our lives. He then was an influence later in my schooling as he became my high school football coach and mentor.

How are you liking Crescent?I am loving it here at Crescent. The staff have been very welcoming, and everyone is willing to help out and make the transition here easier. Crescent is a great fit for me, coming from a small town you really appreciate the sense of community and you really feel the sense of community here from the parents, students and staff.

The CPA is looking for parents to fill some committee and coordinator positions for next year. Nominations for

these positions will run from February 19 – March 1 and we welcome you to participate.

We are pleased to announce Lynn Porter Zechner as the incoming Vice President who will join Tara Borg (incoming President) to lead the CPA for the 2013/2014 school year. The CPA depends on many new and existing dedicated vol-unteers to work with the School to build Crescent’s unique sense of community. We invite you to get involved. No ex-perience is necessary and all parents are eligible for any of the open CPA positions.

All parents will receive a letter on February 19 that will outline the open committee and coordinator positions. Job descrip-tions for each will be posted in the Green Room on the same

day. Please review them, and indicate your interest by follow-ing the Green Room link or by contacting any member of the Nominations Committee directly. Also, please feel free to let us know of other parents who may be interested and/or suited to a position by nominating them.

Members of the Nominating Committee are happy to answer questions or provide more information about joining the CPA so please feel free to contact us.

CPA NOMINATIONS COMMITTEEAnne Marie Mayne [email protected]

Mary Wellner [email protected] Borg [email protected]

Lynn Porter Zechner [email protected] Baumann [email protected]

CPA NEWS continued

CPA COMMITTEE AND COORDINATOR POSITIONS 2013/2014


What’s your favorite thing about Crescent?Our core values, and how we actually teach, preach and live them here. They are not just words on a wall or in print somewhere that get ignored most of the time.

What do you do in your class that is specific to boys’ learning?That part is pretty easy for me. Teaching Health and Physical Education we all know that boys can have a tremendous amount of curiosity and energy and in my class I encourage boys to ask questions and try new things as well as release some of that energy. I try to expose them to many different activities so they can hopefully find that one thing that they will enjoy long term, as well as help them to be healthy and happy for life.

If you changed professions, what would you do?The little boy in me would like to be a pilot. I always thought it would be interesting to see all the different places that your job would take you. There is something about being up in the air flying that just feels so free. I think I

would love that.

Big fish in a small pond or small fish in a big pond?I came from a small town so I would have to say big fish, small pond. That is just what my experience is. Although now that I am in Toronto it has flipped, but my gut instinct stays with where I was raised. Are not the childhood memories always the most powerful?

Of what are you most afraid?Not taking full advantage of what life has to offer, and getting stuck in a rut or routine. I like to try and take in as many life experiences as possible and really enjoy life.

What is your greatest joy?Quality time with family, and friends that are like family.

Favourite movie or book?Such a hard question to just pick one. I love movies or books that entertain and challenge your thinking at the same time. I do enjoy Dan Brown so I am going to say Angels and Demons since I read it just after I visited Rome so I could imagine all the places suggested in the book.

If you were a professional athlete who would you be?Michael Jordan without a doubt for his fierce drive to improve, and his fear of not succeeding.

What changes have you seen during your career? Or do you expect to see?The biggest changes I have seen is in the culture or way society is. You don’t see as many kids able to just play without adult structure or supervision, and of course the infusion of technology. Those two things have drastically changed teaching and kids.

If you could change one thing about Crescent, what would it be?Location. If we could just move it to a more tropical location with more space to park cars I think we could not be beat.

Describe the perfect day at Crescent.Pretty simple I show up and teach my classes where the kids feel comfortable to take risks and make mistakes while always being supported by their classmates, and living by our core values. Oh yeah and it is a constant 23.5 degrees outside with the sun shining and no wind!

MATH LEAGUE

We had another two great showings at the fourth Math League, with many returning writers as well as some new faces. The current individual standings are as follows:

Massey remains in first place this month, with Hudson and Simcoe tied for second.

The Math League is a great way not only to improve in math, but also find enjoyment in solving problems. Students from all grades are welcome, and House points are earned by all writers. I encourage everyone to come out again and write the next Math League on Tuesday, March 5.

—Jorgen Wong, Grade 12

1. Kevin Chien, Grade 12 20 2. S. Whittaker-Lee, Grade 12 193. Warfa Jibril, Grade 12 17 4. Chester Davison, Grade 12 154. Nicholas Lao, Grade 12 15

6. Jorgen Wong, Grade 12 146. Quinton Yau, Grade 12 148. Max Liu Grade 10 139. Jake Fisher, Grade 11 129. Jack Hayward, Grade 12 12

9. Nicholas Mehta, Grade 12 129. Ryan Tam, Grade 11 129. Winston Xing, Grade 10 12

MASSEY 90 HUDSON 78 SIMCOE 78


As you know, this weekend marks the Family Day long weekend. In Manitoba, where I am from, the holiday is

called Louis Riel Day.

It was a coincidence, therefore, to receive a parcel in the mail from my Dad this week, containing all kinds of family mem-orabilia (much more in keeping with the theme of Ontario’s holiday, than Manitoba’s). The handwritten note said he was “downsizing” and he was going through his papers, files and trinkets and thought I would like to have these items that be-longed to my grandmother and great-grandmother.

I don’t mind admitting that my first reaction to receiving these letters, cards, recipes, etc. was panic, especially since my Dad turns 80 this November. Why did he feel the need to give these away? Why didn’t he still want them? What was the rush? What prompted this sudden desire to do some housecleaning? And, at the very back of my mind... is there something going on I don’t know about?

If you don’t live in the same city as your parents, or close rela-tives, you will understand exactly what emotions I was going through. When I travel back to Winnipeg, I always assume that things will be exactly as I left them, in the same place. Family members will not have aged and places will not have changed.

I suddenly needed to hear my Dad’s voice, convinced that

if I heard him talk, I would know instantly if something was amiss. I got through right away and Dad was delighted to hear from me (note to self, call more often). He said he wanted to make sure that his family’s recorded history was distributed between his four children, and as the eldest, I might like to have these yellowed and fragile letters and recipe books in the delicate and flowery handwriting of the family matriarchs. Dad then said that a silver teapot and some mismatched, but well-loved teacups and saucers, were on the way. I told him that of course I wanted these items and I thanked him for sending them on. We had a great chat, and that was that.

I did not have the courage to ask if there was a deeper meaning to this sudden housekeeping; but I have resolved to call more often, even if only for a few moments.

You are never too old to learn from your parents. This week, Dad reminded me of the importance of sharing one’s family history and staying in touch with those we love, no matter how busy we feel we are.

Try to take the time this Monday to sit down with your chil-dren and share family stories, look at old photo albums, review family movies and call parents, grandparents and family mem-bers that are far away. I am certain you will not regret it.

—Dr. Boyes, Head of Lower School

From the Middle School

From the Lower School

SCHOOL MESSAGES

As we live our centennial year at Crescent it is a time that makes us naturally reflective. We, as the Crescent com-

munity look back to see all we have done and look forward to imagine who we want to become. It also makes us look at who we are—right now, today.

I have no desire to infer that we are perfect or that there aren’t some things that we want to, are excited to, improve on—it is important to be honest that there are things to develop and it is reflective of a community that wants to get better and be the best it can be. However there are moments when you can’t fake who you are as a community and that show you quite clearly who you are.

Last week in the Middle School we hosted the CAIS U13 Basketball Tournament and at the same time pulled the curtain up on our Middle School play Julius Caesar. It happened dur-

ing the height of our admissions season in which many of our boys are ambassadors, and a few days before we hosted the Kids’ Lit Quiz National Finals.

In that mix of busyness, tiredness, complexity and demand, it is impossible not to reveal your true character, particularly if you are 12 and 13. These were moments that required our boys to step out of comfort zones, to put visitors first, to be competitive but sporting, to create relationships, to support peers, to cope with stress.

It required discernment and support from parents, it required encouragement and motivation from teachers, and it required courage to fail, and to not give up, from our boys.

It was a proud moment to see the natural way we came to-gether as a Middle School community to make these last two weeks so successful, fun and exciting for our boys. They have


This is my second, and last, column related to course selec-tion: we have received a number of questions overwhelm-

ingly focused on similar themes, and so I thought it could be helpful to provide a summary of those conversations for ev-eryone.

By far the bulk of your questions centred on summer school. I think we all agree that kids should be allowed to be kids in the summer for as long as possible. However, having said that, there are some advantages to spending part of the summer in school. For students who are targeting math/science intensive university programs, completing some credits in the summer can make accumulating all of the necessary prerequisites more manageable, particularly if a student wishes to retain a second language or has broader interests. In addition, for students who may find a particular subject challenging, there are obvious ad-vantages to being able to focus on only that subject every day for a month. Finally, some programs offer a rich experience involving overseas travel and cultural immersion that can be especially valuable, particularly in languages.

Now for the main caution: through many years’ experience, we have learned that quality can vary dramatically among sum-mer school providers. Because of this, we strongly recommend that students take math and English, which are fundamental to university success, here at Crescent, if possible in the regular year program, and if not, then in our summer program. We are

confident that, in this way, students will be well prepared for whichever university program they undertake. We have wit-nessed over the years students take these subjects with some outside providers and achieve impressive results only to strug-gle later in university because of inadequate preparation.

The second concern has to do with closing doors through not selecting certain courses. It’s important to note that there re-ally is no such thing as a “closed door” in high school. My advice generally is for students to take those courses that they most enjoy and in which they are most engaged; this will al-most always result in strong marks—the kind of results that we will all be happy to present to universities. If a student should discover later a new passion for a field in which they lack a pre-requisite, almost all universities offer qualifying programs. The worst case is usually that a student may require an additional year to complete university. Today, students are younger than ever when they enter university; there is nothing to necessarily rush toward, and an extra year as an undergraduate is far from the end of the world. Our young men will have the whole rest of their lives to work.

Over the last two columns, I have provided my responses to the three main questions arising out of the course selection evenings. I hope my thoughts and reflections prove useful as you and your sons deliberate.

—Mr. Lowndes, Head of Upper School

From the Upper School

learned things about themselves and enjoyed experiences that will guide them for years.

I have been inundated with feedback from visiting teams, au-dience members, parents and other boys about how much they were inspired by the atmosphere and experience they had whilst here.

We have much to do in the Middle School; many things we need to get better at. We want to show more wisdom about how to support our boys through these years.

But as we consider these areas of growth it was lovely to know that as we celebrate our centennial year, we can look forward to that growth on top of a strong and vibrant com-munity that cares for each other and supports each other.

Thank you for your role in making the last couple of weeks amongst the best learning moments I have been part of at Crescent.

—Mr. Young, Head of Middle School

WHO IS THAT GUY?? Thighs of Steel makes a surprise visit to Crescent in support of the School’s annual Race for Dignity, and... to show off of course.

Mayamiko Ongah is 18-years-old and HIV+. He learned of his sta-

tus when he was in secondary school.

His mother encouraged him to stay de-termined and to continue his education. “She said, ‘My son, don’t worry, one day you will achieve,’” explained Mayamiko.

Although his mother has since passed away, Mayamiko continues to be mo-tivated by the nurses and doctors who have provided him with care during periods of illness, which most recently included minor paralysis and difficulties with his eyesight.

In November 2010, Mayamiko joined the Teen Club at Tisungane HIV/AIDS Clinic at Zomba Central Hospital. At that time, he was a patient on the ward. Now, he is responding well to treatment and feeling better. “Now, at least I’m walking myself,” he described. “I can go back to school.”

Teens not only receive their follow up care during the monthly Saturday morn-ing Teen Club, but also discuss issues re-

lated to sexual and reproductive health, adherence, and grief and bereavement.

“You feel lonely, and you say, ‘Oh Lord, why me? I got positive, and I have no friends.’ But now, see, we got more friends. We have hope that we are so many, and one day we will do some-thing, we will achieve something… I feel so good. I have so many friends.”

In January 2011, Mayamiko met Dr. James Orbinski (pictured), one of Digni-tas’s co-founders, when James attended a meeting of the Teen Club. “You are just incredibly hopeful,” James said to Mayamiko, “you have HIV, but you still have beautiful hope for life.” Mayamiko replied, “I know that one day, I will go in the field of medicine. I’ll help others. Right now, the doctors are busy helping me. One day, I’ll help others. And I will tell them my story.”

A “VIRTUAL” RACE from Cairo, EGYPT to Zomba, MALAWITHEME: Positive energy—creating it, harnessing it and sharing it!WHO: Students, parents, alumsWHEN: Thursday, April 4 (9:30 – 2)WHERE: Field House WHY: To support Dignitas’s Prevention of Mother-to-Child HIV Transmission program & their Teen Club (see below) AND Right To Play’s weekly sport and play-based programming, educating children about HIV/AIDS & peaceful conflict resolution.HOW:

•Create a team of three people•Register your team online (Green Room)•Bring one bike per team •Setup your bike on the Wednesday •Minimum contribution is $50/rider

Thanking you in advance for supporting Crescent's fourth annual Race for Dignity!

DIGNITAS TEEN CLUB: MEMBER INSPIRED TO HELP OTHERS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS

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