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Fall Play Preview

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By: Sarina D. (’19)
Everyday after school, as we head to our sports practices or instrument lessons or SAT prep classes, the cast of Radium Girls goes back in time 100 years to factory life in Illinois. Featuring Crystal Students from all four grades, Radium Girls is a dynamic ensemble piece that tells the stories of female laborers in early 20th century Illinois who contracted radiation poison from painting watch dials with self-luminous paint,  despite being told that the paint was harmless. The play’s director, Mr. Waters, explained that he chose the play because it had a large cast and would pose a challenge to the actors, who have taken on comedies in the last few Crystal productions. Radium Girls is dark and full of challenges, but ultimately delivers a message of hope.

Words of Wisdom from Juniors and Seniors

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By: Ella R. (’19)
At Crystal, we are lucky to receive an excellent education while still being encouraged to try a huge variety of activities. Sometimes, though, it can be rather challenging to find a balance between everything we do. Searching for some words of wisdom from experienced Gryphons, I spoke with juniors Kevin C., Natalie H. and Tara A., and seniors Jennifer A., Eliana F., and Nicky M. to hear about their experiences at Crystal and what they’ve learned over the years. Keep reading to find out what they have to say about sports, talking to teachers, and the importance of taking time to relax.

Interview with Kirk L.

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By: Zach S. (’20)
This is a brief interview of the co-president of Head In The Game. The organization holds sporting events to raise money and awareness for concussions and concussion research. Keep reading for a quick look into the world of Head In The Game from the perspective of sophomore Kirk Love!

This Month, Think Ink!

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By: Amy Z. (’19)
Think of Inktober as the artist’s New Year’s Resolution—but you only have to keep your resolution for one month out of twelve! If you’re an incredible artist or inker (we all know the Crystal community’s overflowing with talent!), pick up your mixed media pad and a nice all-purpose pen (this is a $10, super-quality smooth-flowing one I picked up at Aaron Brothers in San Mateo). If you’re just getting started, dig out a ballpoint or a Sharpie, whatever paper you’ve got, and go for it!! The most important part of Inktober is letting yourself create. Practicing your technique and making art a daily habit are great benefits as well, but who needs more tasks on that to-do list? Instead, I suggest approaching your drawing session as time to unwind after a long day—like journaling without words.

Putting the “Fun” into Finals

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By: Amy Z. (’19)
Are you a first-timer freshman freaking out over finals? Or a seasoned junior proudly pulling that all-nighter on review weekend? Maybe you’re totally ready to slay that history multiple choice but still wringing your hands at the idea of four passage analyses in 25 minutes? Whoever you are, however you feel about finals, here are a few Gryphon-approved strategies for tackling finals.

Why I Run

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By: Ella R. (’19)
Last week, a family friend was talking to my mom and me about her son, who is a member of his school’s track team. She showed us pictures of him finishing a race, his face contorted with the unbridled effort of a final push. Another image of him, this time at the starting line, captured a wild glimmer in his eyes and a half-smile on his lips that undoubtedly accepted the challenge of the impending 1600 meters. We all laughed at his intensity, and our friend explained that her son loved competition.

The Environmental Cost of Fast Fashion

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By: Georgie M. (’18)
When I walk into a clothing store I notice the colors, the textures, the materials, and styles. Until recently, however, I never gave a second thought about where my clothes came from. As someone who has always loved runway fashion, it’s nice to see similar trends on racks for less than a fraction of the designer price. However, fast fashion retailers such as Zara and H&M have been in hot water in recent years due to their working conditions and environmental cost.

5 Truths about College-Touring

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By: Gabrielle L. (’18)
College tours may be a lot of fun and a great experience, but they can also involve a lot of effort and work. From my own experience recently, this effort entailed catching 5 planes in a span of 4 days and attending countless info-sessions with the obligatory corny jokes and undeniably similar advice on applications; touring institutes of higher education is definitely both a noteworthy and stressful experience. Keep reading to find out 5 things that all students who have gone on college tours know to be true!

A Recap of the Track & Field Season

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By: Ella R. (’19)
As the high school track and field season comes to a close, Crystal athletes are working harder than ever to improve their times and have a great finish to the year. On May 6th, athletes competed at the WBAL trials, and this Friday they will compete at the WBAL Finals where they will have the opportunity to qualify for CCS.