The DiamonD - Santa Barbara Middle School

S a n ta B a r b a r a M i d d l e S c h o o l
Th e D ia m o nd
The Newsletter of Santa Barbara Middle School
Summer 2010


Santa Barbara
Middle School
A defining
educational
experience.
In This Issue
Features
Photo by Thomas Kelsey/Courtesty Santa Barbara News-Press
Bike Monkeys in the News-Press 1
Calendar
16
Academics
Reprinted with permission from the Santa Barbara News-Press, Printed June 1, 2010.
Reports from the
Eighth & Ninth Grades
Teen Press
2
3
Creative Arts & Sports
Songfest
Spring Drama Performance
Student Writings
Meditation & Core Strength
4
5
5
16
Community
Gratitude to SBMS
Report from the Board
Annual Fund Campaign
Auction Update
9
9
10
11
Outdoor Education
Catalina Journey
Winter Mountaineering
6-7
8
Alumni Department
Alumni News & Photos
Santa Barbara Middle School's Bike Monkeys
help keep cyclists safe on the road
12-13
By Karna Hughes, News-Press Staff Writer
About 50 eighth- and ninth-graders from
Santa Barbara Middle School took off on
their annual End-of-the-Year Journey earlier
this week. The two-week excursion is
taking them through Oregon, from Bend to
Ashland, where they'll catch a few plays in
the Oregon Shakespeare Festival.
But in a long-held tradition of the private
school, after taking vans and the train up to
Oregon, the teens are traveling by bicycle
and camping along the way. Helping keep
them safe on the road is a dedicated student
crew known as the Bike Monkeys. Part bike
mechanics, part mentors, role models and
friends, the Bike Monkeys make sure their
fellow students are OK and their bikes are
up to snuff as they spend long days riding
over scenic stretches of terrain, ranging
from dirt roads to the sides of highways.
"There's the really material stuff, like
fixing bikes, making sure everything's going
nice and smooth, fixing a lot of flat tires,"
Bike Monkey co-captain and ninth-grader
Charlie Zimmerman, 15, told the News-Press
last week, while adjusting the brakes on a
teacher's bike outside the school.
"But there's another aspect to it, because
you're expected to lead. Even the younger
kids (the Bike Monkeys can start as
seventh graders) are expected to lead. It's a
responsibility on and off the road."
The Monkeys are also along on the rides
for the sixth- and seventh graders' annual
end-of-the-year bike camping trip (the
lower school will depart Wednesday for
Marin County), the all-school biking trip
in the fall, and during mid-year trips in
the local backcountry. About two Bike
Monkeys and two adults, including teachers
and parents certified in CPR and first aid,
continued on page 14
The Diamond  Page 1
Ninth Grade
Report
by Russ Lewin, Ninth Grade Dean
The ninth grade ended the
academic year by building selfbalancing robots. The robots
are designed and programmed
to balance themselves on two
wheels by sensing the tilt and
making continuous adjustments
to maintain the balance.
This project could be seen
as a symbol for what we have
learned during this pivotal
year. We learned that the head,
heart and hands have to work
together to maintain balance.
The mind has to be carefully
and continuously cultivated
by studying the sciences and
liberal arts. The heart has to be
cultivated by drawing creative
interconnections between
ourselves and our comrades,
and the ideals that we aspire
towards.
The hands have to be
cultivated by developing the
arts, crafts, athletics, and
the awareness that we are
causal agents in a world that
desperately needs benevolent
helpers. If each one can continue
to internalize the lessons
learned, then an inward balance
will be maintained that could
last a lifetime.
It was a wonderful year, and
the entire staff celebrates the
efforts of each and every ninth
grade student.
Ninth graders Sydney Reigert, Amy Davis,
and Sophia Phillips as the “Weird Sisters” in
Shakespeare’s MacBeth.
Academics

Eighth Grade: In the
Classroom
8th Grade History:
The Rockin’ Fifties
It’s hard to believe how quickly the year
has passed and how much the students and
teachers have accomplished together in the
academic arena.
In English, students wrote creatively
in vignettes, modern poetry and sonnets,
composed analytical essays on the Lord
of the Flies, and read Shakespeare’s Romeo
and Juliet. In Science, students performed
two dissections and focused on applying
scientific thinking to everyday life.
As Human Geographers, students
completed their research projects and
presentations, and in Mathematics, groups
are well situated to move smoothly into
the next year, whether it is Algebra 2,
Trigonometry, Geometry, or Algebra 3-4.
In Spanish, students learned the past
tense of regular and irregular verbs and
formed complex sentences and paragraphs.
History students completed in-depth
studies of WWII and the Cold War as they
relate to power, conflict, and change.
Overall, it’s been
an engaging spring
in which students
explored, studied,
and mastered
an incredibly
wide range of
disciplines and
skills. I applaud
their efforts.
The last unit of eighth grade “History
Alive” focused on the Post WWII era of
the Rockin’ Fifties. It was launched by a
field trip to the House of Blues, reinforcing
awareness that blues music impacted
Rock and Roll. Keeping with our year-long
theme of Power, Conflict and Change, the
Fifties decade illuminates the transition of
our nation into the modern era. Students
explored the Cold War period as a time
of change and conflict with the other
superpower, the Soviet Union. Students
explored the foreign policy of containment,
the buildup of nuclear power, and the space race.
by Jesse Wooten, Eighth Grade Dean
Eighth Grade Dean and English
Teacher Jesse Wooten (and
beloved dog, “Elco”) call the
start of a great performance.
Ninth graders Eliana Schiffer, Jordi Sendra, and Lucia
Nuechter “stir” the audience in Shakespeare’s MacBeth.
by Marlene Beckerman, Eighth Grade History Teacher
Heather Harkness (8th) takes a turn at hula hooping as
part of the eighth grade 1950s curriculum.
In the national arena, students evaluated
two sub-themes: change causes conflict
and heroes have chutzpah, and they learned
about the abuse of power, as McCarthyism
gripped the nation, and about the few
who confronted Senator McCarthy and
his political machine. Students were asked
to make ethical choices relating to the
Civil Rights movement and discovered
heroes of the Montgomery bus boycott, the
integration of Central High, Woolworth sitins, and the march on Washington.
Finally, we probed lifestyle, teen culture,
music, and technology of the Fifties and
we engaged in activities, such as I Love Lucy
marathon, Hop A Long Cassidy Day, building
mini fifties floats, and writing journals
and poems for the teens of the Fifties
project. The final day of class culminated
with a Fifties party. Students drank root
beer floats, sampled hula hooping, bubble
gum blowing, yoyo and limbo contests to
the tune of Rock n ’Roll music from Elvis
Presley, Little Richard, Chuck Berry and
others. They had a rockin’ good time!
The Diamond  Page 2

Encountering Cultures: The Teen Press
Meets Austin & Afghanistan
by David Teton-Landis, Webmaster and Digital Arts Teacher
This spring the Teen Press enjoyed some
unique opportunities to experience different
cultures, one first-hand, the other, quite
a bit more second-hand. In March, as a
mid-year trip, a unique ninth grade team
was formed to journey to Austin, Texas, to
cover the South by Southwest Film Festival
and get a taste of the Music and Interactive
Media festivals.
and answers flowed easily and thoughtfully,
in an interview you can see at www.
sbmsteenpress.org/TP-v12/5greg-01.html.
What ensued after that was
extraordinary. Sixth grade SBMS "rapperin-residence," Mark Godges had asked
John Seigel-Boettner if he could perform
a rap for Greg. John had initially refused,
worrying that the Teen Press' ability to get
Thanks to DRI
for letting us
share a cup
of tea with Greg!
All photos courtesy Direct Relief International.
Left to right: John Siegel-Boettner, Eliana
Schiffer (9th), Greg Mortenson, Lili DeVoto
(7th), Emily Dewey (7th), and Mark Godges (6th).
Mark Godges (6th) performs for Greg Mortenson.
Teen Press members Lili DeVoto (left) and Emily Dewey (middle) share a cup of tea with Greg Mortenson before
their interview at Direct Relief International’s warehouse. Photos and interview courtesy Direct Relief International.
Closer to home, but dealing with issues
much farther away, the current Teen Press
team had the honor and responsibility
of spending time with Greg Mortenson,
Afghanistan activist, Nobel Peace Prize
nominee, and author of Three Cups of Tea and
Stones Into Schools.
Enabled by Direct Relief International
(DRI) and SBMS alum families the Tighe’s
and Villanueva’s, the Teen Press arranged
for an interview with Mr. Mortenson during
his busy stop here in Santa Barbara, between
an event at DRI and another event with
UCSB’s Arts & Lectures series. Under the
direction of student mentor and former
Teen Press member Elianna Schiffer (9th),
team members Emily Dewey (7th) and Lili
DeVoto (7th) researched and rehearsed for
days in preparation for their time with Greg.
So when the time came, instead of
rushing into a breathless list of questions,
they spread out a cloth, kicked off their
shoes, sat cross-legged on the floor of
DRI’s warehouse, and offered Greg some
homemade tea. Thereafter the questions
The Diamond  Page 3
the interview would be hampered. Instead,
listening to a voice within, he relented, and
after the interview, Mark got his chance
to present Greg with a gift of words and
rhythm–a great one. Greg was so struck by
the two events that he immediately asked
Mark to rap for both the DRI fundraiser
crowd and the USCB Arts & Lectures
presentation he was giving at the soldout Arlington Theater. Then, he quickly
arranged for his film crew, waiting in San
Diego for Greg's meeting with a Navy
Admiral, to come back to Santa Barbara
to film the girls re-interviewing Greg and
Mark's rap. (Mr. Mortenson is filming a
documentary that will premiere at the Banff
Outdoor Film Festival this year.)
In the process, Greg asked Emily and
Lili to interview two DRI aid workers
about their last trip to Haiti, as well as
to interview Mark about his rapping.
Both of which they accomplished with
thoughtfulness and aplomb. What a spring
for the Teen Press!
Teen Press members Emily Dewey (7th), Lili
DeVoto (7th) and Mark Godges (6th) are
interviewed for Mr. Mortenson’s documentary.
Eliana Schiffer (9th) and Mark Godges (6th)
spend a special afternoon with Greg Mortenson.
Thank you to Mickie
& Jeannie Klein,
grandparents of Matt
Brown (9th) for hosting
the Teen Press in Austin!
Creative Arts

Songfest 2010
by Ted Rhodes, SBMS Alum Parent, Former Board President, and Songfest Producer
SBMS students enjoy a day of rock ‘n roll,
sunshine, and Songfest.
Lia Welkom (7th grade) sings an original
song for the crowd.
All Songfest photos courtesy Michael Stinson.
Thank you Michael!
Order Your
Songfest DVD
If you’d like to order a copy of
the Songfest 2010 DVD, go to the
Performance Memories website:
www.performancememories.com
On that site is a list of all
shows that are currently
available to order, with links to
order forms. DVDs are $35 for
the first copy, and $25 for each
for additional copy. There's no
payment in advance; an invoice is
sent with the finished DVD.
Saturday, April 24 brought a pleasant,
and Arlette Godges. And many thanks
sunny day for Songfest 2010 that kicked off
to Jesse and Lindsey Kasehagen and Kim
the afternoon of SBMS student music with
Schiffer and the Seventh Grade Pit Masters:
a rockin’ Fearless. Set against Kent Hodgett’s
James Kendrick, Maisie Zimmerman, Alex
airbrushed scenic backdrop creation of
Varner, Maddie Moriarty, and Zola Phillips.
musical staff and notes, 28 student acts
A special thanks to Lilli Doner for her
sang and worked their guitars, basses,
general assistance as well as the subsequent
keyboards, and drums on an array of tunes
handling and distribution of Songfest DVDs.
ranging from My Funny Valentine and Witchy
We are grateful to parent Todd Jared
Red to a number of original student-written
and the Lobero Theater for loaning us nine
songs, and from the hard driving Rock-Nstage risers and to Ernie Tamminga and
Roll Hootchie Coo and Hot for Teacher right
Performance Memories for producing this
on through to Songfest’s Don’t Stop Believing
year’s Songfest DVD.
finale, backed by our own Grateful Dads.
In addition, we thank again SBMS
Marco, Maureen, and Ted would like to
Wagonmaster Tom Ridenour for
acknowledge the
transporting
tremendous efforts
necessary “speed rail”
of everyone who
pipes from and back
performed as well
to Carpinteria; and
as the help of all
Richard Wilke for his
the volunteers who
steadfast help with
worked so hard
setup, staging, and
behind the scenes to
wrap.
make Songfest 2010
As always, we
another great Middle
salute the musical
School success.
back-up talents
Helping to carry,
and the unwavering
set up, and wrap the Left to right: SBMS alums Travis Tighe, Zach Wallace, Dakota
dedication of the The
stage risers; raise the Dobbin, Chris Osbourne (9th) and alum Ben Pecorari rock the Grateful Dads, who,
backdrop and festival stage at Songfest 2010.
under the direction of
flags; roll out stage rugs; and lug guitars,
Marco Andrade, accompanied the student
amplifiers, drums, and music stands to
performers on a number of songs: Tom Fogel
and from the Lotus Theatre were a host of
(guitar), Peter Kornbluth (guitar), Rick
volunteers: Bruce and Kevin Davis, D’Ann
Mellor (Keyboards), Michael Adcock (bass),
Hanrahan, Jesse and Miles Benenati, Anne
Dan Diamond (keyboards), Ted Rhodes
and Doug Newman, Sheila and Hartlan
(harp, percussion), and Marco Andrade
Argentine, Billy Reyner, Yumi Bollag, Trini
(drums, guitar and bass).
Quinn, Dave Dwelley, Colleen Proctor,
Once again, Songfest could not have been
Bruce Meares, Brent Christensen, José
the success it was this year without the
Baer, Bart Millar, Mike DeGruy, and Geoff
services of professional soundman Desmond
Wallace.
Warren of DSR Audio, his assistants Mikey
Manning the microphones and cables
Donahue & Andrew Piepenbrink, and our
during the show and trying to keep us on
mixer Rosie Hernandez. We also thank the
schedule were members of this year’s SBMS
Parent Association, Instrumental Music,
Songfest Stage Crew to whom we are most
Jensen Music, and Mike’s Drum Shop for
grateful: Andrew Wakamiya, Dan Feinberg,
their support.
Amanda Stinson, Bailey Raith, and Jake
Lastly, we give a special thanks to our
Shipman.
good neighbor and alum parent Kent
A big thanks to Katie Roberts and her
Hodgetts for generously underwriting
volunteers for providing food and beverages:
DSR Audio’s costs as well as creating the
Lisa Plaxco, Laura Wheeler, Dawn Dunn,
wonderful musical note backdrop for
Amy Zimmerman, Carol Millar, Kathleen
the stage. Thanks again, Kent, for your
Holroyd, Noël Christensen, Patrick
contagious enthusiasm and support of
Stranahan, Courtney Morris, Patty Kelley,
Songfest and all things Middle School.
The Diamond  Page 4

A Delicate Balance
by Ella Deardorf
(Excerpt from a Cultural Studies assignment ) The sixth grade trek was a number of
things–a challenge, an adventure, a journey
and a new step in life. I experienced some of
the most incredible, beautiful views of the
mountains, trees, flowers and smiles...
Not only did I play with friends, but I
really saw different sides of them that I
would never imagine. We bonded, laughed,
told comical stories and did zany dances.
The campfires at night were very enjoyable
and exciting but also made me feel content
and secure inside.
I came out of my shell to sing and dance
with my friends. I have only one major
event that was NOT so good...being
homesick. Oh my, I was so homesick... The
trek was an awesome trip and I wouldn't
want to it to change one bit. I'm sad it
went by so fast, but I'm glad I took the
challenge and went for it.
If I Had Wings
by Chris Benwitt, Seventh Grade
If I had wings... If I could fly,
I’d reach for the seas and touch the sky.
From all around, up and down, here and
there, and over where?
Being free is what I’ll do, colors of a
rainbow, yellow, green, red, and blue.
Sunset images in my head, I will see SBMS
on bikes up ahead.
In San Francisco is where we’ll be, on the
great Bridge of Majesty.
With all safety hazards put to thought,
Middle School will be on top.
If I had wings I’d have no limit,
I’d visit places without a ticket.
From the Great Pyramids,
to the more modest craft,
I’ll visit all that the world attracts.
With my wings I will become, a more
confident, and caring one.
With my next journey, into the eighth grade,
I bless my Middle School with a silent prayer.
I thank my teachers for leading the way
And realize every day
That I could not have learned
without them beside me.
And appreciate all who abide me.
The Diamond  Page 5
Spring Play:
“Man of La Mancha”
by Nöel Christensen, SBMS Parent
Each spring SBMS students bring to the
stage a touching and thought-provoking live
performance. This year's show was based on
the broadway musical Man of La Mancha.
The student performers put forth
a wonderful and inspirational tale of
“Dreaming the Impossible Dream,”
“Righting the Unrightable Wrong,” and
“Reaching the Unreachable Star.” The play's
hero: an eccentric old man who believes
he is a Knight in Shining Armor on a noble
Man of La
Mancha Photos
Left to Right: Lucia Nuechter (9th),Tyler
Newman (9th) and Gabrielle Hart (9th).
Ryan Mori (8th, left) and Tyler Newman (9th,
right) face off during the performance.
Partial cast of Man of La Mancha.
quest of honor. The play's message: to never
give up hope, and to see life not as it is, but
perhaps as it ought to be. The cast and crew
gave us a colorful, passionate story that
teaches one to hope when there appears
to be none left, to see treasure where there
is only trash, and to live in the name of
the dream. A perfect theme for middleschoolers!
SBMS's well-loved theater director, Eric
Lehman, and his wife Maureen Lehman, our
theater program musical director, helped to
showcase the talents of our middle school
students. With the added artistic creations
of Richard Wilke and the help of many
parents, Man of La Mancha was a successful
and memorable show for all and left the
student performers proud of their collective
achievement.
Parent Anne Newman helps backstage
applying make-up on Evy Weiland (8th)
before the curtain calls.
Aliana Schiffer (9th)–a noble though
confused knight.
Maddy Stranahan (9th) as “The Governor”
keeping order at the inn and prison.
Kendall Anne Christensen (7th) and Lia Millar (7th).
All photos of “Man of La Mancha” courtesy
Michael Stinson.Thank you Michael!!
Catalina Photos
Eighth graders Jonathan Beardon, Brian
Wheeler, Drew Janssen, Heather Harkness,
Dan Feinberg, Ryan Mori, and Evy Weiland
take a rest on Catalina Island.
Brian Wheeler (8th) and Morgan Dunn (8th)
enjoy a hearty laugh while learning to tie
different types of knots.
We made it to the west end of Catalina
Island!
Day hike to Starlight Beach.
Outdoor Education

Backpacking on Catalina Island
by Whitney Ingersoll, Admission Director
I have worked at SBMS over half of my
arranged for water in jugs to be waiting,
life, in fact–this is my 30th year working
so we were in good shape. Parson’s is very
at this remarkable school! Tom Ridenour
austere and not fancy, but we camped right
and I were counting and I think this is
on the beach– spectacular.
probably about the 15th or 16th time I’ve
Day 3: We did a nine-mile day hike out
led the Catalina trip – and though every
to the farthest west end of Catalina Island,
trip is different, the thing that remains
right next to the eagle preserve. We saw a
the same is the privilege I feel being able
rattlesnake along the route as well as whales
to watch your children transform over the
blowing their spouts into the air–amazing!
eight days of being without their watches,
It was a fun opportunity to tell the students
their cell phones, their ipods – just having
about the two black ravens, Asha and
themselves, their friends and Mother
Rainer, who seem to follow SBMS wherever
Nature – the great equalizer and coyote
we go. They were named by Hayleigh Love
teacher.
and Jhala French in 1983 on the first SBMS
Along with Tom and me on this eightCatalina Trip. Marco Andrade (our eighth
day backpacking trip across Catalina
grade Spanish teacher) was in eighth grade
Island, were
on that trip!
eleven amazing
It was a good
students and
day to continue
six spectacular
getting ready
adults,
for Day Four:
including
one I’ve been
alum parent,
dreading since a
Peter Schuyler,
year ago when I
current
finally reached
parent, Vibeke
the top!
Weiland,
Day 4: We
former teacher
named it Mt.
and alum, Anita
Sisyphus in
Samaha and
honor of the
Alum Anita Samaha leads the group up a long trail, but look at the rewarding
alum, P.A.
greek myth
views on Catalina Island.
Tremblay.
where a man
Day 1: We drove to San Pedro where we
was doomed to push a rock up a hill for
loaded onto the ferry which would carry us
eternity – believe me, that’s what it feels
over to Catalina Island. Our ferry went first
like. Every student did the hike with the
to Avalon, and everyone could see where
most amazing attitude. Truly they are
we would end the trip eight days in the
mighty. After having hiked to the top of
future. The Promised Land! Then we floated
a hill, Dan Feinberg ran back down hill to
along the shoreline another 40 minutes
help someone else with their pack. This hill
to Two Harbors, the Isthmus, where we
is two miles straight up; no switchbacks,
unloaded. We picked up our fuel, dropped
just one foot in front of the other. Then
off the second half of the week’s food in
once we got to the top, it was still another
lockers and walked to the beautiful Little
six miles back to Two Harbors and to our
Fisherman’s campground to set up camp.
campground. We were urged along by the
We all brought good food for dinner – some
anticipation of hot showers (the only ones
fish, some steak; it was a sharing feast!
all week) and dinner at a Taco Bar at the
Day 2: We woke and packed up for our
Isthmus. Needless to say, after witnessing a
first day of hiking. It was a great way to
tied record of 12 tacos by Drew and PA, we
begin as the hike was a flat seven miles with
were ready for a good night’s sleep.
a small climb at the end. We walked all
Day 5: This day was the hike up and over
along the shoreline, stopping to eat and rest
to Little Harbor. Again, a steep climb at the
at points overlooking the ocean and under
first and then along the ridge top up and
a cherry tree. We arrived at Parson’s camp.
continued on page 7
There is no running water there, but I had
The Diamond  Page 6

Catalina, cont’d from pg. 6
down until we dropped into Little Harbor.
This day was a highlight for me because we
saw a wild Catalina Island fox, a species
that had gotten down to less than 100 in the
wild. Now there are 950 in the wild! A fox
waited right by the trail for most of us to see
him; then he trotted away into the bushes.
Such a treat to see him, it really made my
trip! Our campfire that night was dedicated
to honoring our parents. Your children love
you and appreciate the love you give, the
sacrifices you make and the guidance you
give them probably more than you will ever
know; it is a privilege to listen to them share
from their hearts.
Day 6: This
day we slept
in a bit – what
a treat. Then
around 10 am,
the students
were set up with
food, water,
paper, pen and
themselves.
They were
each left alone
in a personal
space area for
a three-hour
Enjoying the beach on Catalina Island.
quiet time.
What a treat to be all alone, to think, listen
to the sounds of nature, write, take a nap,
look around, just be. One thing that I love
about SBMS is on one hand we are very
“plugged in” at school. We teach all one
needs to know and more about computers,
robotics, internet, web design, digital arts,
and more, but we know how to “unplug”
as well. Every year, we spend one month
without an iPod or phone, and on Catalina,
even without a watch. Instead, we go on our
bodies’ clocks. What a gift.
After quiet time, Tom taught everyone
how to make different types of knots. We
hiked out to Shark Harbor in pairs and
spent the time cleaning up the beach (which
we do every year).
Day 7: Day 7 was really cool. Really. We
started hiking to the Wrigley Ranch, El
Rancho Escondido. We were welcomed by
Shelley, who after giving us cold water and
the opportunity to use a flush toilet, also
kindly opened the family museum for us.
The Diamond  Page 7
There is nothing like this museum. Full of
the saddles, bridles, wagons, photos, and
memorabilia of ranching in the 1900s. It
really is a hands-on cultural history lesson.
We continued up the Blackjack trail,
getting to camp in the late afternoon.
Even though it was cooling down, a cold
shower was a welcome relief! Our good
friend Rich Zanelli (who works for the
Catalina Conservancy) came that night after
dinner and took us up to the mountain top
where he gave us an astronomy lesson. We
watched the space station fly by and Rich
took us through a ceremony of sharing with
each other what we appreciated about the
other person.
Rich ended the
ceremony by
presenting each
child with a stone
that he carved
for them. Then
Rich had each
child go tuck that
stone somewhere
on the hilltop
so that a part
of them will
forever remain
on Catalina. A
little sadness
escaped some lips because each wanted
to keep their rock, but sweet Rich then
produced another rock with each person’s
named carved into it so they could always
have a piece of Catalina with them. We love
Rich.
Upon returning to camp that night we
had our final fire. We went around the circle
twice at once honoring every single student
by all of the others–expressing what we
learned about each, what we found special
and what we appreciated. The
second go-around was just
everyone sharing final thoughts,
insights, and as always around an
SBMS fire, gratitude. By the time
the fire was over, it was past
mid-night!
Day 8: We woke early and
packed up quickly. We hiked
two miles down to the main road
and met the airport shuttle. They
took all of us and our packs and
drove us down to Avalon. We
had about 4 1/2 hours in town.
It was a treat to be able to have
some time walking around with
a partner or two and just soaking
up the darling community of
Avalon.
By 3:45 pm we were on board
the ferry and heading back to
San Pedro. Leaving the island
is always amazing as we look
back and see how far we walked.
Anita figured we gained 6,000
feet in elevation as we started at
sea level and hiked to the ridge
tops three times!
Parents were in San Pedro to
drive us home. As the last car
drove out the SBMS driveway
around 9:30 pm, Tom and I
hugged and I did my traditional
“kiss the ground, ” so grateful
that once again the trip brought
back everyone safe and sound.
What a privilege to work
with your children; I just love it.
Makes me happy to be alive.
Heather Harkness (8th)
on the trail - what a view!
Left to right: SBMS Staff Tom Ridenour
and Whitney Ingersoll, alum parent Peter
Schuyler, and alum Anita Samaha.
Photos from 6th
Grade “ Trek”
Cooper Thomas (6th) hikes the ridgeline with
spectacular views as his reward.
A staple part of the journey: “The Trek”
guidebook.
Jack Denison (6th) shows off the interesting
marks on a rock he found along the way.
Left to Right: Emily Berk (9th), Zoe Plazxo
(6th), Ella Deardorff (6th), and Hana Loggins
(6th) relaxing in camp.
Outdoor Education

Winter Mountaineering on Mount Whitney
by Victor Dominocelo-Ho, Science Teacher
Monday: We arrived at Lone Pine at
our usual time of 5 PM and drove on the
approach road as high as possible. This year
we had twice as much snow as I have ever
seen in 13 years! Usually we can park about
two miles from Base Camp, but this year we
were five miles away (by GPS). We began
our first event at 8 PM: the night hike. After
two hours, we stopped for the night on a
buttress overlooking the Owens Valley and
the White Mountains, but our attention
was on the magnificent star show. Over half
the students slept outside watching the
stars through the night on this beautifully
clear and, thankfully, windless night.
Tuesday: Students woke to an
incredible red-orange horizon sunrise
with a panoramic and breathtaking view
of Owens Valley. After a quick breakfast,
we continued another three miles up to
our Base Camp at Whitney Portal. Our
second event was learning how to set up a
snow campsite, complete with "dead-man"
anchors and front door steps. After lunch,
"Snow School" began with our "Survival
Shelter Workshop."
After learning about survival shelter
pragmatics (minimal energy output) and
various designs, the students broke into
groups to find optimal locations for our
shelter building contest! After about 90
minutes, we all inspected the various
shelters and the instructors evaluated and
graded them on the basis of design criteria
and survivability.
Wednesday: "Snow School" continued
this morning with our Ice Axe and
Crampon Hike up the side of the Portal
canyon. After about an hour straight up,
we came to a flat area with a great view of
the canyon walls and caught our breaths
from our exhilarating ascent. As always, the
climb down was harder as we learned how
to apply ice axes and crampons in a safe and
effective manner.
This afternoon, we completed the
"Avalanche Seminar," a four-part
instructional event: snow pit/snow pack
evaluation; avalanche beacon discovery
race; avalanche conditions, formation,
travel strategies, location probabilities,
avalanche probe line; and rescue shovel
team formation and practice.
Late in the afternoon, several students
completed our best ever "Snow Dome"
shelter. This required an intense amount
of shovel work by a variety of students and
resulted in a large dome cave which some
students slept in Wednesday and Thursday
nights.
Thursday: Perhaps our most exciting
event, the “Ice Axe Arrest” workshop
teaches students how to safely stop their
fall/slide down the mountain. First we
build a snow slide, slick it out with many
repetitions and then using our slippery
outer clothing, slide down in various
positions while practicing how to stop
safely. As you can imagine, with eighth
graders, this is nothing but fun!
In the afternoon, the group went on
the "High Point Hike," going up the Mt.
Whitney trail as high as possible in the
allotted time. Due to the record snow depth,
the group went about 2.5 miles up and past
the first snow field. This year, students and
instructors using five pairs of snow shoes
packed down the trail, which significantly
improved travel and prevented "post holing."
As the students returned from the hike,
the mountain bestowed a beautiful two
-hour snowfall which continued during
dinner. This night we had several hours of
howling winds, swirling around the canyon
and through the trees, gusting between 30 - 40 MPH!
Friday: Our last event was a five-mile
"Spring Break Hike" with full pack to the
vans. Then we sorted and packed equipment
and blissfully changed into cotton clothing
after a week of wearing synthetic clothing
next to our skin. We then began the long
drive home with thoughts of parents and
spring break fun.
Of course, we could not have done this
fantastic trip without all the parents help
during our nine Fridays. Also essential was
a wonderful mom that the girls could go to,
Sheila Argentine, a great dad the boys could
look up to, Kail Wathne, and the person
closest to all the students in spirit, energy
and "coolness," alum Megan O'Meara.
As we were packing up the vans, I pulled
one student aside and talked about their
challenges and how they pushed through
them on this journey of the mind and body.
This thirteen-year-old said to me, "I did this.
Now I know I can do anything."
That just about says it all for me.
The Diamond  Page 8

Gratitude of SBMS
Community
by Josh Neighbors, Ninth Grade
SBMS’ community is a huge part of what
has shaped the school for many years. I’ve
heard it said that when a student walks
into the school for the first day, we arrive
open, our strengths and possibilities hidden
under the patina of our life so far, similar
to a jagged rock, rough around the edges.
However, as time goes by we develop a
wider perspective on everything and we
open up to all the possibilities and all of the
hidden potential that came along with us
when we began our journey through SBMS.
Because of this, over our years at SBMS, we
become like a polished, smoothed, seethrough, brilliant, amazing stone–shining
from the inside out and reflecting all of the
gifts that were until then, hidden inside our
shell.
I remember my first day at Middle
School. I had begun a little late that year,
transferring in from another school, but
the next thing I knew I was already being
welcomed into the community. It was as if
everyone was a big family. Nobody is ever
mean or excludes another person, and no
one is ever lonely. In addition, the teachers
are awesome. I had never met teachers with
such an impressive sense of humor, and that
brought out a side of me that I had never
even seen before. They not only teach us day
after day in the classroom, but they really
get to know us and guide us through these
middle school years by going on trip after
trip with us. My teachers know me inside
and out; they get me and they love me. For
that I am truly grateful.
I see myself now, at the end of ninth
grade and by spending time with the
SBMS alumni working at school and on the
trips, I get a glimpse of what I can be. The
alumni exemplify how the Middle School
community and state of mind manifests
itself over time. SBMS alums always give
back to the school and they are future
examples of who we can become. They
share their perspective and wisdom with
us. Through them we can see ourselves, and
the potential in our own futures. They are a
concrete connection between the past and
the present. At SBMS we understand that
we are a part of something bigger than just
ourselves, and this is our own community
continued on next column
The Diamond  Page 9
Community
A Letter from the
President
by Laura Collins, Board President
It’s been quite a year! Through the
incredible focus and collaborative effort
of faculty, staff, volunteers, families, and
board members, SBMS is flourishing. Under
Brian’s leadership, SBMS is at a new level
of excellence, with vibrant and innovative
programs. Importantly, we’ve also created
policies to insure that the school is now and
will continue to be financially sustainable.
Thanks to the new energy at SBMS, the
school continues to attract and retain
students and families who value its unique
educational experience. This strong support
is also evidenced by the 100% participation
of families, faculty, staff, and board members
in the Annual Fund Drive, raising over
$175,000 this year!
While this is the end of the school year,
the Board and its committees will continue
working throughout the summer - in
particular, you’ll be hearing from us as
the negotiations for a new location are
concluded.
I’d like to acknowledge our retiring
trustees-Karen Heimberg, Bruce Klobucher
and Wendy Mokler–who have each given
years of service to the school. We’ll miss
them on the Board! And I’m pleased to
announce that the following individuals
were elected to serve on the Board this
coming year: Francois DeJohn, Craig Granet,
Aniko Huffard, Michele Konoske, Eric
Sanborn and Meghan Skinner.
We have a lot to be grateful for: Brian
McWilliams as our new head, a dedicated
faculty and staff, supportive families and
6
creative students, and a tireless volunteer
Board of Trustees. Thank you for all you do
to make this community work, and have a
great summer!
Photos from 6th
Grade “ Trek”
Sixth graders Ella Deardorff, Ajna Bayet,
Claire Anne Roberts and Evangeline
Enriquez get ready for a long day on the
trail-but with smiles ready for the trek ahead!
Eric Lehman, SBMS Teacher, leads the group
up the trail.
Claire Ann Roberts (6th) embraces the midyear trip challenge of cooking for one’s self!
Gratitude, continued
where we are a part of our own traditions,
ceremonies, and beginnings and endings.
I thank my teachers for all they did for me
while I was here at SBMS and I see my
future when I look at the alumni. I see how
I have been polished. I see where I am going.
Now my time is ending as a student and
next is my turn to become an SBMS alum
and carry on the lessons, the fire and the
SBMS spirit.
Nico DeNunzio (6th) takes a break to read.
“Where the Wild
Things Are”
Auction 2010
Community
100% Participation in our Annual Fund!
Santa Barbara Middle School thanks the parents, faculty, grandparents, trustees, and
friends who supported the school’s 2009-2010 Annual Fund campaign to help us reach an alltime record of 100% participation in the campaign and exceed our campaign goals!
We are especially grateful to Mimi deGruy and Dana Fritzler, Development Committee
Co-Chairs, and Annual Fund representatives Simi & Andy Barrad, Linda Callender,
Jennifer & Larry Good, Anne & Doug Newman, Michael Stinson, and Laura Wheeler,
whose enthusiasm and creative energy provided the leadership to make this Annual Fund
campaign a huge success.
Parents
SBMS staff and alum parent
Lilli Doner cracks a laugh with
SBMS’ Richard Wilke’s “Wild
Things” character.
SBMS parent Patrick Stranahan
and daughter Maddy (9th).
“Wild Things” character created
by SBMS’ Richard Wilke.
Parents Vibeke and Joe Weiland.

William Allen & Jody Allen
Randolph
Jeremy & Sarah Anticouni
Barrie Aquilino & Marion Toms
Sheila Argentine
Tracey Artiss
Jose & Courtney Baer
Andy & Simi Barrad
David & Angela Beardon
Michael Benedict &
Margaret Daley
Jesse & Mary Benenati
Perry & Ellen Berk
Daniel & Yumi Bollag
Josh Brayer
Jim Buckley & Patty Kelley
John & Linda Callender
Keith & Lisa Carlson
Jeff & Sue Carmody
Arturo Castellanos
Jeff Chambliss
Brent & Noel Christensen
Laura Collector
Bruce & Regina Davis
Dino & Jennifer De Nunzio
John & Louise De Voto
Jamie & Susan Deardorff
Paul & Downing Denison
Dale Denkensohn &
Patrice Serrani
John & Naomi Dewey
Dawn Dunn
David Dwelley & Liana Landru
Crandell & Doreen Edwards
Robert Elmore
Michael & Cynthia Feinberg
Bryan & Lisa Field-Elliot
Jane Garner
Tammera Gilman
Joseph & Arlette Godges
Larry & Jennifer Good
Eric & Terry Graf
Craig & Fran Granet
Sharon Green
Ted Greene
Michael & Eileen Haber
D'Ann Hanrahan
Richard & Sharon Harkness
Kevin & Kareen Hart
Sam & Kathleen Holroyd
Anezka Jahner
Dan & Christine Janssen
Todd & Lauren Jared
Jacquelyn Klein-Brown
Richard Kriegler &
Lynn Montgomery
Stuart & Jennifer Lewis
Julia Loggins
Kenny Loggins
Sayre Macneil
Layla Mairleitner
Katie Mickey
Barton & Carol Millar
Donald Mori &
Marsha Maimone
Linda Moriarty
Troy Neighbors & Marni Rozet
Jami Gina Olsen
Kevin Osburn & Isabela Bhering
Brian & Leanne Pearson
Glen & Laurel Phillips
Karen Phillips
Peter & Karen Anne Platt
Kevin & Lisa Plaxco
Richard Powell & Julie Ringer
Ron & Stacy Pulice
Willie & Trini Quinn
Jonathan & Elizabeth Raith
Christine Renshaw
William & Deborah Reyner
Pike & Jamie Riegert
Matthew & Katie Roberts
Laurel Rubin
Eric & Kendre Sanborn
Howard & Kim Schiffer
Kristi Schultz
Cat Sendra
Jordi Sendra
Matt & Susan Shanaberger
Cynthia Shipman
Lisa Star
Michael Steady & Jenna Berg
Brad & Carla Stein
Michael Stinson
Patrick Stranahan
Patricia Swenson
Greg & Daphne Tebbe
Owen Thomas & Angie Dukes
John Tooby & Leda Cosmides
Jill Valestrino
Craig & Karen Wakamiya
Andrew Wallop & Veronica Huu
Kail Wathne & Lori Rafferty
Joe & Vibeke Weiland
Wendy Welkom
Stephen & Laura Wheeler
Walt & Rachel Wilson
Lucinda Winters-Varner
Russ & Patti Yahyavi
Board of Trustees
Mark & Lesley Bloomer
Russ & Laurie Collins
Mike & Mimi deGruy
Patricia Draghi
Graham Farrar
Glen & Dana Fritzler
Rick & Karen Heimberg
Roger & Robin Himovitz
Michael & Jann Jaffe
Bruce & Teri Klobucher
Bruce & Lisa Meares
Wendy Mokler
Doug & Anne Newman
Ken & Jo Saxon
Drs. Ayesha & Mohammed Shaikh
Guy & Carola Smith
Ronald & Mary Werft
Craig & Amy Zimmerman
Faculty & Staff
Marco Andrade & Kelly Rosenheim
Jay & Marlene Beckerman
Pam Boswell
Jim & Robin Brady
Kira Brady
James & Anne Chen
Christine Cowles
Caroline DeLoreto
Victor & Anita Dominocielo-Ho
Lillian Doner
Erin Finnegan
Alan Hughes & Lynne DeBoer
Bob & Whitney Ingersoll
Teresa Jamison
Jesse & Lindsey Kasehagen
Thomas & Colby Kline
Carl & Laurie Lauer
Eric & Maureen Lehman
Russ & Gerry Lewin
Jake Lindelof
Vicki Lindelof
Brian & Kristen McWilliams
Suzanne Prince
Tom Ridenour & Blair Looker
John & Lynn Seigel-Boettner
Ray & Domi Smith
David & Gail Teton-Landis
Richard & Marilyn Wilke
Jesse & Lara Wooten
Grandparents
Henry & Nancy Armstrong
Barbara Carlson
Sherry & Peter Churchill
Patty Evans
Sid & Mimi Green
Steve & Prudy Handelman
Paul & Debi Hart
Bill & Phyllis Helm
Richard & Luci Janssen
Ruth Kaplan
Suzanne Klein
John & Gretchen Morris
The Joseph H. and Maxine F.
Pearlman Foundation
Bob & Anne Ritchie
Claire Roberts
Sidsel Staal
Mariellen & Sigurd Wathne
Alumni, Alum
Families & Friends
James McKay Armstrong
Tim & Ginny Bliss
Matt Candler
Bill & Elaine Dietsch
Barbara Flanigan
Casey Flanigan
Barbara Hannegan
Roy & Barbara Harthorn
Martha Heinz Family Estate
Peter & Story Kornbluth
Melissa Marsted
Brett Matthews & Ginger Salazar
Justin Michael
Maxine Pearlman
Craig Peters & Maureen DeBoer
Robert Potter & Ellen Anderson
Ted Rhodes & Joan Pascal
Ann Steinmetz
Charles & Barbara Stoops
Bruce & Robin Tiffney
Tony Tonkin
Sam & Sandra Tyler
Roberta Weissglass
Kathy Snow & Bendi White
Judy & Paul Willis
Glen & Lisa Wysel
Melanie Yanke
Jason Yardi & Robin Holt Yardi
The Diamond  Page 10
With Gratitude

Where the Wild Things Are
Dinner & Auction on May 1, 2010
Thanks the following individuals, teachers, students, parents, trustees and businesses for
their generous support of and donations to our auction!
Lesley & Mark Bloomer
Pat Draghi
Marciana & BJ Drury
Colleen & Ted Friedel
Suzanne Klein
Izabela & Kevin Osburn
Wade Quackenbush
Drs. Ayesha &
Mohammed Shaikh
Patricia & Eric Swenson
A H Gaspar Jeweler
Ablitt's Fine Cleaners
A-Frame Surf Shop
Alma Rosa Winery & Vineyards
Anacapa Dive Center
Andersen's Restaurant & Bakery
Anderson Art Collective
Kelly Rosenheim &
Marco Andrade
Marion Toms & Barrie Aquilino
Arbor Skateboards
Sheila Argentine
Arnoldi's Cafe
Art Essentials
Tracey Artiss
Courtney Morris & Jose Baer
Beach Grill at Padaro
Beach House
Beachside Bar & Grill
Angela & David Beardon
Beckmen Vineyards
Bestwestern Fireside Inn
Bicycle Bob's
Virginia & Mark Bobro
Bikini Factory
Bikram Yoga of Santa Barbara
Blue Bee
Margaret Daley & Michael
Benedict
Ellen & Perry Berk
Yumi & Daniel Bollag
Pam Boswell
Patti & Tom Boucher
Kira Brady
Sharon Green & Bradford Brown
Patty Kelly & Jim Buckley
Noelle & Don Burg
Ca' Dario Ristorante
Cafe Del Sol
California Cleaners
Linda & John Callender
Lisa & Keith Carlson
Jeffrey & Susan Carmody
Arturo Castellanos
Cathedral Oaks Athletic Club
Certis Capital Management
C'est Cheese
Jeff Chambliss
Chaucer's Bookstore
Anne Chen
Chili's Grill and Bar
Noel & Brent Christensen
Sherry & Peter Churchill
Cielo Spa Boutique
Clay Lacy Aviation
Cold Spring Tavern
Laura & Russ Collins
Core Fitness Training
Cindy & Thomas Dabney
Eileen Daley
D'Angelo Bread
David Roth Photography
Regina & Bruce Davis
Susan & Dick Davidson
DAWG
Susan & Jamie Deardorff
M. Lynne DeBoer
Mimi & Mike deGruy
Caroline DeLoreto
Dr. Trevor Denny, DDS
The Diamond  Page 11
Jennifer & Dino DeNunzio
Naomi & John Dewey
Dino's Body Shop
Anita & Victor Dominocielo-Ho
Lillian Doner
Nancy & Ken Donnelly
Downing Denison Design
dressed
Drishti Yoga Essentials
Dawn Dunn
The Eagle Inn
Doreen & Crandall Edwards
El Capitan Canyon
Elephant Bar & Restaurant
Eliane Alexandre Salon Francais
Elite Performance & Rehab Center
Eva Enriquez
Evolutions Medical Spa
Graham Farrar
Ann Dusenberry & Brad Fiedel
Cindy & Michael Feinberg
Maria Fernandes
Float Luxury Spa
Fly Away Hang Gliding
Foley Estates
Gerald Franklin
Colleen & Ted Friedel
Dana & Glen Fritzler
Teresa Fritzler
Ganna Walska Lotusland
Jane Garner
Gelson's Markets
Richard Gilman
Arlette & Joseph Godges
Jennifer & Larry Good
Terry & Eric Graf
Fran & Craig Granet
Linda Moriarty & Ted Greene
Katherine & Dan Gunther
Hamilton & Associates
Prudy & Steve Handelman
D'Ann Hanrahan
Sharon & Richard Harkness
Kareen & Kevin Hart
Hazard's Cyclesport
Hearst State Historical Monument
Mer James & Scott Hedrick
Karen & Rick Heimberg
Phyllis & Bill Helm
The Himovitz Family
Kristin & Rick Hogue
HomeCare Hotel Mar Monte
Hotel Oceana
HRxpress, Inc.
Sean & Dorie Hutchinson
Whitney & Bob Ingersoll
Instrumental Music
Italian Pottey Outlet
Jade Restaurant
Jan & Michael Jaffe
Teresa Jamison
Lauren & Todd Jared
Tami & Dan Jauchen
Jeannine's Bakery
Jensen Guitar & Music
Joelle Olive Oil
Justin Vineyards & Winery
Elizabeth & Alan Kasehagen
Lindsey & Jesse Kasehagen
KATE
paola aranci
catering
Fresh! Foods Catering
Key 2 Fitness
Aparna Khanolkar
Jacquelyn Klein-Brown
Colby & Tom Kline
Teri & Bruce Klobucher
KMD Organizing
Knit and Pearl
Brecia Kralovic-Logan
Hannah & Lynn Montgomery &
Richard Kriegler
Mary Scaran, L.Ac.
Lawson & Fisher Chiropractic
Lazy Acres Market
Leaves of Grass
Maureen & Eric Lehman
Colette & Steve Leider
Russ Lewin
Lewis and Clark Antiques
Jennifer & Stuart Lewis
Lily
Jake Lindelof
Vicki Lindelof
Lindemann Glass
The Lobero Theatre Foundation
Local Harvest Delivery
Don Logan
Kenny Loggins
Los Olivos Wine Merchant
Louie's California Bistro
Magellan's
Margarita G. Martin del Campo
Max's Restaurant
Ray McNamara
Kristin & Brian McWilliams
Lisa & Bruce Meares
Melissa Mellott
Metropolitan Theatres Corp
Katie Mickey
Carol & Bart Millar
Coleen Lund & Mark Mittermiller
Wendy Mokler
Montecito Cafe
Montecito Country Club
Montecito Country Kitchen
Morrison Educational Consulting
Mountain Air Sports
My Sweet Pineapple
Natural Cafe
Neuvie Fine Furniture
Anne & Doug Newman
Noah’s Ark Animal Hospital
Gretchen Nuechter
Occhiali Fine Eyewear
Olio e Limone Ristorante
Jami Gina Olsen
Our Daily Bread
Outback Steakhouse
Paddle Sports of Santa Barbara
Palace Grill
Paperhammer Productions
Paradise Cafe
Paul Kemnitzer
PCPA Theaterfest
Pepe's Mexican Restaurant
Karen Phillips
Lana Marme & Michael Phillips
Laurel & Glen Phillips
Linda Phillips
Susan & Hank Pitcher
Por La Mar Nursery
Julie Ringler & Richard Powell
Prestige Hand Car Wash
Suzanne Prince
Proform Fitness & Training
Stacy & Ron Pulice
Trini & Willie Quinn
Renaud's Patisserie & Bistro
Tom Ridenour
Jamie & Pike Riegert
Riverblue Salon Spa
Katie & Matthew Roberts
The Sacred Space
San Ysidro Ranch
Santa Barbara Airbus
Santa Barbara Arts
SB Ballet Center & Gallery
SB Botanic Garden
SB Chamber Orchestra
SB Frame Shop
SB Museum of Art
SB Museum of Natural History
SB Sailing Center
SB Surf School
SB Symphony
SB Yoga Center
SB Zoological Gardens
Jo & Ken Saxon
Sea Landing
Lynn & John Seigel-Boettner
Susan Rakov & Vince Semonsen
Cat Sendra
Susan & Matt Shanaberger
Karin & Jeff Shelton
Shoreline Beach Cafe
Silpada Designs
Simpson House Inn
Skate One Corp
Carola & Guy Smith
Domi & Ray Smith
Soft Touch
Stand Up Paddle Sports
Lisa Star
Sandy Starkey
Patrick Stranahan
Jenna Berg & Michael Steady
Hannah Stiles
Michael Stinson
Summerland Beach Cafe
Sundance Beach
Daphne & Greg Tebbe
Sally Terrell
Gail & David Teton-Landis
Angie Dukes & Owen Thomas
Tone-Up Santa Barbara
Touring and Tasting Magazine
Dr. Michael Trambert
Upham Hotel
Jill Valestrino
Village Cheese & Wine Shop
Lori Rafferty & Kail Wathne
Joe & Vibeke Weiland
Mary & Ronald Werft
Laura & Stephen Wheeler
Marilyn & Richard Wilke
Dr. Jerry Woolf, DDS
Lara & Jesse Wooten
Patty & Russ Yahyavi
Yoga Soup
Amy & Craig Zimmerman
Zodo's Bowling & Beyond
Left to right: Parents Dino and Jennifer
DeNunzio, teacher and alum Marco Andrade,
and Kristen McWilliams with husband and
Head of School Brian McWilliams.
Auctioneer Dan Gunther and Development
Director Christine Cowles about to kick off
the live auction. Dan had the audience in stitches!
SBMS Parents Michael Phillips, Lesley
Bloomer, and Lana Marme.
SBMS alums Aaron Roberts, Milano
Giannetto, and Eli Himovitz give back to
the school by serving food and desserts to
our guests. Alum parent and trustee Robin
Himovitz and teacher Kira Brady made the
wonderful desserts - thanks all!
Thank you to the very
talented photographer,
Kenji, for donating
his time! Prints may
be purchased through
Kenji’s blog.
Kenji Photography
24 Anacapa Street, Ste. 3A
Santa Barbara 93101
www.kenjiphotography.com
805-564-3563
Join Our
SBMS Alumni
Facebook
Group!
Zoe Blumberg Corwin (‘86) and family.
Brian Bargiel (‘89) and family.
Jona Jacobsen (‘00) at Angkor Wat.
Wendy Martin Isben (‘86) and family.
River (Elise) Johannsen (‘89) and family.
Share your news & photos!
Email Whitney at
whit@sbms.org.
Let It Shine, Alumni
Fox Anton Purtill (‘79) writes: “I
graduated in 1979... here it is 2010 and I still
know many of those I attended with there,
SBMS has been part of my whole life and I
love it.”
Leanne Medved Pritchett (‘87) writes:
“I am currently an instructional assistant
in the Special Education department of my
local high school, working on my teaching
degree. I am also the third grade teacher
of the religious school at my temple in the
Sacramento area. I also rescue feral cats in
my spare time, and I am an animal rights
advocate. Coming into SBMS as an eighth
grader was not easy. I was not sure if I
wanted to attend the school, and many of
the students already had their cliques. I did
make friends with a lot of the new students
who were seventh graders, and then
progressed into making friends in my grade.
I had never ridden a bike that far and was
really scared of the bike trips. After going on
a few trips, I gained a confidence in myself
that I can achieve anything, as well as an
acceptance of other people, no matter who
they are or what they look like.”
Siobhan O’Neill (‘89) writes: “Look at
the hundreds upon hundreds of former
students who connected to each other here
on Facebook, through Whit and to the
SBMS page. Look at how many of us came
here to share what we’ve been doing and
reconnect with each other after so many
years. Look how far back we go. Look at
how long our friendships, and connection
to this place, have survived. Personally, my
time here gave me one of the most important
things I’ve ever had: a best friend. I’d never
had one before Kerryn, and she is still my
number one, always.”
Marissa Mika (‘96) writes: “I now spend
about three months out of every professional
year on the road, traveling through Eastern
Africa and going to relatively remote, off the
beaten path sorts of places to connect with
people and talk with them about their lives.
That takes some hard core confidence and
sense of self on a daily basis. And I think,
looking back on my time at SBMS, that is
the longstanding stamp and take away. I
am super comfortable being who I am, and
I think being in such an affirming place like
SBMS allowed me to get comfortable in my
skin and develop an interest in others.”

Thomas Schultheis (‘98) writes: “SBMS
has positively shaped and affected me more
than any other educational experience to
date. I believe that the experience that
SBMS offers is irreplaceable and crucial
during the transition from childhood to
young adulthood due to the instilment of
important core values that are relied upon as
a guide everyday.”
Jacob Seigel-Boettner (‘03): was
recently awarded the largest grant Cal
Berkeley gives to a graduate, The Judith Lee
Stronach Baccalaureate Prize. He received
it for his project, “With My Own Two
Wheels,” a film and call to action about the
bicycle and its magic around the world. Ian
Wexler (‘04) and Isaac Seigel-Boettner (‘04)
will be his crew and Avery Medjuck (‘04)
is doing the music. They’re off to Ghana,
Zambia, Rwanda, India and Guatemala this
summer.
Tom Ugarte (‘05) writes: “At first SBMS
was intimidating, those bike trips seemed a
bit too much for me. But I went along with
it and it made me into a stronger person. I
wouldn’t be the person I am today without
SBMS; it truly turned me into a positive,
hard working individual.”
SBMS teacher Domi Smith, former teacher Georgia
Kinninger, and teacher and alum Marco Andrade.
Leanne Medved Pritchett
(‘87) and husband.
Brodie Dizgun (‘00)
The Diamond  Page 12

Alumni Spotlight
Chris Calaprice, Class of ’82
SBMS was something that our parents
I think that somehow I will never be an
did for us that paid it forward. None of
alumni, but rather I am still a student trying
them really knew what it would do back
to expand on those first lessons. Middle
in the early days. I believe that it was, and
School continues to teach me today and
is, one of the most amazing educational
give me strength when I need it. Who else
experiments of all time. It forged in us the
had surfing and rock climbing for physical
ability to connect, to care, to endure, and to
education? On February 20, 2010, I start out
succeed. Waiting like a time bomb in our
on another "Rite of the Wheel" This time
lives to give us
it is not the
an edge over our
four corners
struggles and
on a bicycle
courage in the
as a child. It
dark.
is not about
Sometimes
learning my
a soft hand on
way around the
the tiller of our
campfire and
lives, sometimes
responsibility.
a vice-like belay
Not learning
on the fall from
to face
the cliff that is
loneliness or
the mountain
real pain for
we all must
the first time.
climb. Always
Not about
an influence
bonding. This
SBMS alum Chris Calprice (middle) stopped by SBMS to share his story
even if we don't with the school. SBMS students left to right:TJ Lewis, Dan Feinberg, Heather
is over 42,000
Harkness, Dylan Carmody, Jamie Jared, Hana Loggins, Amy Davis, Sydney
realize it. In
miles on a
Reigert, and teacher Marco Andrade.
my life when I
motorcycle,
have needed it most, someone from Middle
50 states and getting chemotherapy on the
School was there for me, as they are now.
road. This is about documenting my journey
Teachers and friends and teachers who are
and other's journeys on the Road 2 A Cure
friends, friends who are teachers.
for pancreatic cancer. This is about sharing
This is a club that in some ways I wish
the hope, the fears, the challenges, the loss,
the world could share, but am glad that
and the courage of survivors, caregivers,
few enough
oncologists,
have so that it
researchers and
has not lost its
advocates. This
meaning. From
time I face the
Hopi Kivas
journey of a
6
with Kent, to
man full grown,
an amazing
and growing
evening with
up again for at
Ann, Whit,
least the fifth
Domi, and Kitty
time in my life.
this weekend.
I am and have
Words cannot
been weak. I
express the
am and have
meaning of
been strong.
Middle School
I am the sum
for me. This
of my choices
SBMS alum Chris Calprice and his ride!
is not a glory
and my actions.
days rheumy-eyed reflection of days gone
This rite of passage is about sharing hope
by. Rather it is a testimony to the fact that
with those who have none. Some doctors
SBMS somehow taught us more than any
gave me less than a 1% chance of surviving
traditional education could about who we
a year; six years later I am still here. Middle
were and who we could become.
continued on next column
The Diamond  Page 13
“Currently the survival
rate for pancreatic
cancer is just 5%
beyond 5 years. I’m still
here almost 7 years,
and I want to be the
new face of a ‘survivor.’
So I’m doing something
about it with
Road 2 A Cure
– and you can help us.”
SBMS Alum Chris Calaprice,
Founder of Road 2 A Cure,
pancreatic cancer survivor and
melanoma skin cancer survivor
SBMS alum Chris Calprice on the road.
Chris’ trailer–impressive!
Chris Calaprice, cont’d
School gave me strength, the
army forged my will, and life has
tested my metal. Some days I am
tested and come up short. Some
I don't. I am, as I said, a student
and have many lessons yet to
learn. Whit, Ann, Domi and
Kitty, thanks for again being my
teachers. And to all the teachers
of Middle School past and
present, know that you have and
continue to profoundly change
lives!
If you want to follow my
journey the web site is www.
road2acure.org. Love ya all.
Thank you to our
awesome DELI
volunteers!
Jody Allen Randolph
Tracey Artiss
Simi Barrad
Linda Callender
Lisa Carlson
Sue Carmody
Noel Christensen
Graham Collector
Susan Deardorff
Mimi deGruy
Downing Denison
Jennifer DeNunzio
Angie Dukes
Doreen Edwards
Jane Garner
Jennifer Good
Larry Good
Terry Graf
Fran Granet
Sharon Green
Ted Greene
D'Ann Hanrahan
Richard Harkness
Sharon Harkness
Kareen Hart
Kat Holroyd
Jacquelyn Klein-Brown
Jennifer Lewis
Carol Millar
Lynn Montgomery
Linda Moriarty
Courtney Morris
Anne Newman
Doug Newman
Peter Platt
Coleen Proctor
Stacy Pulice & Becca
Lori Rafferty
Katie Roberts
Kendre Sanborn
Cat Sendra
Carla Stein
Michael Stinson
Patty Swenson
Daphne Tebbe
Marion Toms
Jill Valestrino
Vibeke Weiland
Laura Wheeler
Patti Yahyavi
Amy Zimmerman
Bike Monkeys, cont’d from pg.1

are assigned to each group of 10 students.
has a service component that extends far
"We couldn't do it (on the trips) really
beyond the classroom.
without the Bike Monkeys," said Head of
"It's a good program because the students
School Brian McWilliams. "If we didn't have
make it that way," said Mr. Kasehagen.
20 bike mechanics, we'd be in trouble."
"They work extra hard. (On trips), they get
The preteen years are "such a critical
up early and stay late at night. In the end,
time for development, intellectually,
it's kind of rewarding. It's, 'Look what I did.'
emotionally and socially," he said. And
'Look what I can do.' "
the cycling trips, in which kids may ride
This year, for the first time, the Monkeys
up to 30 miles or more a day in the upper
gave free bike tune-ups to the public at
grades, can cultivate qualities like selfEarth Day in Alameda Park, volunteering
confidence, resourcefulness, self-direction
in two-hour shifts. And the teens worked
and resilience.
on bicycles at Santa Barbara High School's
"All the kids learn to ride bikes and
Earth Day the following Monday.
get themselves up the hill. But the Bike
"I'm trying to get them involved in the
Monkeys take it a step further," Mr.
community. I think it's important for them
McWilliams said. "They're the center of
to reach out," Mr. Kasehagen said. But
the wheel. They're watching out over the
the Bike Monkeys also spend a lot of time
other kids, taking the extra amount of
volunteering right at school and before
time to help others. It's a way of serving
and during the trips. Among other things,
the community, giving back and really
they help prepare students by tuning up
becoming a leader.
their bikes and
The Monkeys
packing and
are "the kids who
loading them
have that drive to
into trailers.
serve and see the
And the
bigger picture and
students make
understand what
themselves
we do. It says a lot
available to
about character."
fix or adjust
The program
bikes any time
started 30 years
for their peers.
ago, when then
"We definitely
headmaster Kent
advertise it more
Ferguson ran it
around the time
out of his garage,
of the trip, but
Bike Monkey Co-Captain Lucia Nuechter (9th) and other Bike Monkeys
with about eight
we're always
unload bikes during the Orientation Ride 2009.
students — all
open," said cogirls — he trained in bike repair to help out
captain Lucia Nuechter, 16, who that day
on the cycling trips, which are part of the
was wearing an apron with grease marks on
school's outdoor education curriculum.
it over a purple hoodie.
"Now it's 30 students with a fully
Holding a pair of pliers, she and eighthfunctional bike shop (dubbed 'The Monkey
grade Bike Monkey Dan Feinberg, 14, were
Room')," said Jesse Kasehagen, the head
in the Monkey Room trying to rip off a
bike teacher and science teacher, who's been
plastic shield that was creating too much
with the school for eight years.
drag on the wheel of a student's mountain
Bike Monkeys 101, an elective class
bike. "Like, if someone wants to change
offered in the fall, is open to any students
the grips on their bike, we can meet them
interested in hands-on bike repair. (Usually
at lunch or on break," said Bike Monkey
they take the class in seventh grade, but
Jonathan Beardon, 13, an eighth-grader. Or a
some exceptions have been made for sixthstudents will just pull aside a Monkey to set
graders.)
up another time to meet, added Dan.
Those who have passed written and
The walls of the Monkey Room were
mechanical tests and kept up their grades
covered with outlines for tools — mostly
are eligible to be part of Bike Monkeys
empty, since they'd packed them up for
201, the class in leadership and advanced
continued on page 15
mechanics, the next term. But the program
The Diamond  Page 14

Bike Monkey, cont’d from pg. 14
the trip. One corner had photos of famous
different issues they're having, they bond
cyclists like Lance Armstrong, while framed
with each other.
group shots of Bike Monkey alumni ran
On Friday mornings before school starts,
along another wall. The students take
some students take a bike ride out to
their leadership roles and responsibilities
Leadbetter Beach for a sunrise swim, then
seriously. They have to
eat doughnuts and ride
become recertified after
up to school. "It's like a
one year.
family," said Lucia. "It
"It's lots of hard work.
sounds corny, but we're
It's much more than
all really comfortable
about fixing bikes," said
around each other."
Lucia, who gave up some
And Mr. Kasehagen
extracurricular activities
says he's seen some
so she could be co-captain.
students be transformed
"It's being a role model.
by their time in the
It definitely takes a lot of
program, some in more
commitment."
subtle ways than others.
On trips, the Monkeys
By ninth grade, "it's,
ride at the front and rear
wow, they're totally
of the packs to be available
different creatures. By
to help whenever needed.
ninth grade, they're
They relay messages
able to handle more
and sometimes are
responsibility."
temporarily put in charge Bike Monkey Co-Captain Charlie Zimmerman (9th).
Dr. Michael J.
if an adult isn't available. Photo byThomas Kelsey/Courtesy Santa Barbara News-Press Feinberg, Dan's father,
"If someone's hurt or
said he thought the
something's wrong with a bike, we have to
program was wonderful and wished he'd
stay behind and give the help. It's less about
had the same opportunity when he was
caring about yourself," Lucia said.
younger. "It's given Dan and certainly the
And they often have to be innovative
other students more than just the average
while fixing bikes on the road. It's Bike
academic experience. They've gone on
Monkey tradition to swap tales of their
to learn a skill the average 14-year-old
trip experiences. During last year's Bolinas,
or 15-year-old wouldn't know. And it's
Calif., trip, "a stick ripped off a derailleur
expanded his boundaries. It's made him
hanger, so they ziptied it to the frame
more receptive to learning other things."
and turned it into a three speed," said Mr.
For their teacher, Mr. Kasehagen,
Kasehagen, who was a former Bike Monkey
it's those kinds of changes that make
and co-captain himself.
the program so worthwhile: It's about
Legend has it that one year a rider's inner
"watching them; watching them be a
tube broke, but they had no spare tube to fix
part of the team and work together and
the wheel, so "they opened it up and shoved
problem-solve," he said. "There's always
all kinds of dirt and grass and stuff in it,"
a new problem
said Monkey alumnus Sam Terrell, 19. "If
with mountain
you stop, everyone stops, and your job is to
bikes and new
make sure no one stops."
technology ...
This year, they even drafted their own
Watching them
Bike Monkey Creed, a kind of contract that
learn, 'Oh, I can
they decided to each sign to reinforce their
do this'; watching
commitment. It includes tenets like setting
them take off."
an example for others and mentoring Bike
Monkey trainees, having integrity and being
trusted to get jobs done, being selfless and
knowledgeable. But there's a social aspect
to the Monkeys, too. Spending time in
the shop, at meetings after school and at
retreats, where they collaborate and discuss
The Diamond  Page 15
Thank you to the
following individuals
for these special gifts!
In-Kind Donations
Thomas Dabney
Glen & Dana Fritzler
Michael & Kerry Harrington
Doug & Anne Newman
Ted Rhodes & Joan Pascal
Barry & Judith Scott
Greg & Daphne Tebbe
David & Gail Teton-Landis
Deli Donations
Ron & Stacy Pulice
Vans Maintenance
Barrie Aquilino & Marion Toms
Library Donations
Barrie Aquilino & Marion Toms
Jim Buckley & Patty Kelley
Richard Kriegler &
Lynn Montgomery
Carl & Laurie Lauer
Eric & Kendre Sanborn
Kail Wathne & Lori Rafferty
Financial Aid Program
Victor & Anita Dominocielo-Ho
Carl & Laurie Lauer
Gratitude
Perry & Ellen Berk
Kent Hodgetts & Tanny Keeler
Congrats to our very
own Anne Chen!
The winning team zooms through the final
turn on the 40K course at the SCNCA State
TTT Championships and takes first in the
220+ category. Anne Chen is on the far right.
Santa Barbara Middle School
NonProfit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Santa Barbara, Calif.
Permit No. 553
2300-A Garden Street
Santa Barbara, CA 93105
P 805.682.2989 | F 805.682.0893
www.sbms.org
To receive this newsletter electronically, update your address
or remove your name from our mailing list, please call 805.682.2989 or email office@sbms.org.
Mark Your
Calendar
Sept. 7: 9th Grade Orientation
Sept. 8: First Day of School
Sept. 9 Orientation Ride
& Overnight
Sept. 10: Return from
Orientation
Sept. 13: First Day of Classes
Oct. 18- 23: Fall Expedition
Oct. 23: Homecoming
Oct. 25: No School,
Trip Recovey Day
Nov. 11: Veteran’s Day,
Half Day of School
Nov. 16-17: ERB’s
Nov. 18-23: Conferences &
Career Study Week
Nov. 24-28: Thanksgiving
Dec. 20-Jan. 3: Winter Break
The Diamond  Page 16
Mindfulness at SBMS
by Whitney Ingersoll, Admission Director & Teacher
For the past two years, I’ve taught an
afternoon elective in Core Strength. It is
what you would expect on one hand, and a
hidden gem on the other hand.
Building core strength has its obvious
benefits, making one’s core strong for our
trips and for every day posture and stability.
Twice a week the class stretches and
strengthens to Pilates, Yoga, then sweats
with Tae Bo and Jillian Michaels. The other
two days a week, they work on another core
– the mental, psychological, emotional, and
inner core of the mind.
Dawa Tarchin, a former Buddhist Lama,
has generously donated his time twice
a week to come teach meditation to the
core strength class. In the class, our cores
are strengthened from the inside out in all
manners.
Dawa teaches meditation as a method to
train in mindfulness and awareness. When
practiced properly it increases joy, clarity,
and inner peace. SBMS seeks to help each
student learn how he or she learns. Because
of our increased ability to be mindful, our
awareness increases and we will eventually
gain authentic understanding and insight
into how our mind works.
One sixth grade student remarked
at the end of the class, “It helps you see
things clearer and be more aware of the
world around you so you can be happier
and therefore more successful. Dawa’s
class helped me be more mindful, more
appreciative of what I have and to use the
talents I have, because now I can truly see
the inside of me.”
Wings
by Frances deGruy, Seventh Grade
Get lost in the air
Break free from the hold
Where to go?
You were not told.
Creating a path
You're spreading your wings
Taking your time
Discovering new things.
The sun in your eyes
Breeze in your hair
You've broke the ties
You've breathed in new air.