The Daily Thistle, St. Margaret's School: Recent Episodes
St. Margaret's School
The nation's only independent school daily news brief from St. Margaret's School in Tappahannock, Virginia
Challenging yourself in high school fosters growth, resilience, and confidence. Push beyond your comfort zone by taking difficult courses, exploring new extracurricular activities, and embracing leadership roles. These experiences prepare you for future challenges, build time management skills, and help you discover your passions, all while developing critical thinking and perseverance.
Whitney reflected on the challenges of being a boarding student, noting the profoundly different demands it imposes. She spoke of the difficulty in balancing academic and personal responsibilities while adapting to a more independent lifestyle. Despite these challenges, Whitney found that the experience fostered resilience, self-discipline, and strong community bonds.
Loneliness is a feeling of sadness or isolation, even when surrounded by others. It's an emotional state of lacking meaningful connection. Being alone, on the other hand, is simply the physical state of solitude, which can be peaceful or empowering when chosen intentionally, without the emotional burden of loneliness.
Whitney speaks of passion as the sparks that fuel your soul, driving you to pursue what brings joy and fulfillment. It's the feeling of excitement when you’re fully immersed in something that challenges and inspires you. Whether it's creativity, learning, or helping others, passion ignites purpose and makes life more meaningful.
Whitney sat down with Martine to discuss the deeper meaning of being on the volleyball team. Beyond the wins and losses, it was about trust, camaraderie, and personal growth - emphasizing the bonds and life lessons gained through teamwork.
Today’s Sisters Pride offers insight into FOMO, or "Fear of Missing Out." It is a psychological phenomenon characterized by the anxiety that others might be having rewarding experiences that you're not a part of. It's driven by the desire to stay constantly connected to what others are doing, often amplified by social media, where people frequently share highlights of their lives. FOMO can lead to feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and dissatisfaction, as individuals may compare their lives to the seemingly perfect lives of others they see online.
Writing vs. Texting? Writing offers depth and clarity, encouraging thoughtful expression and reflection. It allows for more meaningful communication, preserving ideas with care and nuance. Unlike texting, which is often quick and superficial, writing fosters a connection that is deliberate, lasting, and rich in detail, making it a superior form of communication.
Today, on this edition of The Sisters' Pride, Whitney sits down with the newly elected members of our Student Government Association. These student leaders were chosen by their peers to represent their respective classes, and we're excited to hear from them. Let's meet the voices of our student body.
Sisters' Pride explores comfort zones that offer a sense of security and familiarity, but they can also limit growth. While routines and habits provide stability, they often prevent us from taking risks or embracing new challenges. Stepping beyond these boundaries is essential for personal development, fostering resilience, creativity, and true potential.
Today, in Sisters' Pride, I want to bring you inside the Chapel at St. Margaret's. Twice a week, we gather for Morning Prayer. While most of America's boarding schools were founded with a Christian dimension, the term Chapel has often taken on a more secular outlook, becoming a venue for assemblies or meetings. And that's all well and good, but at St. Margaret's, we maintain a purely liturgical outlook.
Today, in Sisters' Pride, personal style is an expression of who you are. It’s not about following trends but about showcasing your personality, values, and confidence. By mixing timeless pieces with subtle trends, you create a unique look that feels authentic. Ultimately, personal style reflects your individuality and helps you stand out naturally.
Habits, especially those that are hard to break—like the ease of summer routines. As school begins, it's time to shift habits that align with your life goals.
In today's episode of The Sisters Pride, Whitney Quinn discusses the importance of embracing criticism. She emphasizes how hearing and reflecting on feedback, even when uncomfortable, is key to personal growth and development. By welcoming critique, one can strengthen skills, gain new perspectives, and continuously improve.
For many younger students, 9/11 is a distant historical moment rather than a personal memory. Whitney’s observation speaks to the challenge of ensuring that the gravity and impact of such events are understood by those who were not alive when they occurred. It emphasizes the importance of preserving the stories, emotions, and lessons from that day, even as it becomes a chapter in history books. Here's Whitney with today's Sister's Pride.
Whitney's Sisters' Pride delves into social media and the forces shaping beauty standards, often creating an unrealistic image of perfection. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat flood our screens with curated snapshots of flawless skin, sculpted bodies, and glamorous lifestyles. These images, though often heavily edited or filtered, can have a profound impact on how individuals—especially young people—view themselves.
Today, Whitney shares insights on respect and its vital role in shaping the culture at St. Margaret's School. She highlights how it is fostered through daily interactions, mutual understanding, and a commitment to building a positive environment where everyone feels valued and supported in the community.
Meet Via - our Master of the Colors leading our Blue-Grey Competitions speaks with Whitney
In this episode, Whitney is reflecting on Chat GPT and its role in learning and challenging one's character development. A backdrop of this was an Axois Report yesterday, which found that public schools are rethinking homework policies to reduce student stress as mental health and artificial intelligence push the issue into focus. A.I, tools, like ChatGPT, are increasingly used for homework, raising concerns about the balance between learning and relying on technology. Nevertheless, the American educational system continues to fall behind steadily, as 23% of the freshmen in college today will drop out by Christmas 2024 - that's in three months. Here's Whitney with Sisters Pride.
We are speaking of our sisterhood. Whitney speaks with several students about the framing of the Sisterhood of St. Margaret's.
In this episode of Sisters Pride, Whitney Quinn shares valuable tips on how to kickstart the academic year successfully. Emphasizing the importance of organization, she highlights the benefits of using the blue planners provided by the school, which have helped students stay ahead in their coursework. Whitney also encourages setting personal academic goals, which can motivate during challenging times. She stresses the significance of establishing a consistent routine, both in the morning and throughout the day, to ease the transition from summer to school life. Lastly, she suggests joining or starting a club to add joy and balance to the school experience.
Whitney speaks to our Head Prefect on her role and goals for this year. Martine reports on JV Volleyball victory.
Today, we warmly welcome Whitney Quinn, who will be stepping into the role of leading Sisters' Pride as her sister and the organization's founder, Kendall, embark on her journey to Claremont University.
In the grand tradition of capturing the essence and spirit of youth, Kendall Quinn has been the steadfast voice behind over 250 episodes of “Sister’s Pride,” reaching an audience of more than 10,000 unique listeners. Her tales woven from the daily lives at a quaint Episcopal girls’ boarding school nestled along the tranquil shores of the Rappahannock River in Tappahannock, Virginia, have touched many a heart. Today, we salute her as she prepares to trade the familiar sunrises over the Rappahannock for the golden sunsets of the Pacific Ocean, moving on to new adventures at Claremont College in California.
Kendall, an East Coast girl through and through, has grown before our very eyes. She has led with grace as Head Prefect, embodying the virtues of leadership with an impeccable character that St. Margaret’s aims to cultivate in all its students. It is with both pride and a touch of sadness that we, the St. Margaret’s community, extend our deepest gratitude to Kendall Quinn. Thank you, Kendall, for your inspiring leadership and for leaving an indelible mark on our hearts and on the hallowed halls of St. Margaret’s School, here, on the banks of the Rapphannock River in Tappahannock, Virginia.
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Today's topic is preparing for and saying goodbye. Kendall is getting ready for her final installment of Sister's Pride as her graduation from St. Margaret's School approaches. It's a bittersweet time, but she feels invigorated by her experiences and excited about the future that lies ahead. "Life is all about change."
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Kendall has the tables turned on her as sister Whitney interviews her.
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Kendall converses with the cast of "Sublime: The Beauty and Suffering of Karen Carpenter." This production traces Carpenter's career via twelve iconic hits, depicting her journey from early innocence through intense effort to weary exhaustion.
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Kendall and Whitney speak about body dysmorphic disorder, highlighting the intense distress individuals feel over perceived flaws in their appearance. They discuss the psychological impact and emphasize the importance of being aware of its awful pitfalls Whitney invokes Teddy Roosevelt’s “Comparison is the thief of joy”
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Kendall and Whitney discuss the negative impacts of habitual lateness, emphasizing its disruption to both personal and professional relationships. They highlight how being late reflects poorly on one's reliability and consideration for others, urging an improvement in time management to foster respect and efficiency.
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Exploring shifts in perspective reveals growth and flexibility in thinking, from views on social media choices to silent time to cleaning, baking, and more.
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Kendall offers insights on preparing for AP and Final Exams. She also explores George Orwell's "1984," focusing on its vocabulary and themes, providing some insights for listeners.
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Avoiding small talk often leads to more meaningful conversations. By bypassing the usual superficial exchanges, we can delve into topics of genuine interest, fostering deeper connections. This approach enhances our interactions, enriches our understanding of others, and promotes a more fulfilling communicative experience.
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Today's topic is self-reflection. Consider a mirror—though it shows your true reflection, it presents everything in reverse. This invites us to ponder how we perceive ourselves versus how we truly are, highlighting the nuanced understanding required when we delve into personal introspection and self-awareness.
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Kendall and Whitney revisit our Spring Parents Weekend
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Kendall reflects on the poignant Lantern Ceremony at St. Margaret's, capturing the essence of their final, nostalgic days. As the sisterhood prepares to part ways, she explores the bittersweet culmination of their journey together.
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In today's Sisters' Pride, we aim to share the small, daily stories of our friends, encapsulating the essence of the St. Margaret's School experience. These tales highlight the meaningful, everyday connections that enrich our community.
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In this episode, Kendall and her "Sisters' Pride" journey to friends for a contest where participants guess whether quotes are from Taylor Swift or Shakespeare. Expect surprising and amusing outcomes as they explore the similarities between these iconic wordsmiths. Tune in for an entertaining blend of pop culture and classic literature!
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On today’s "Sister's Pride," Kendall discussed self-doubt, sharing her experiences and strategies for overcoming it. She emphasized the importance of self-compassion and setting realistic goals, which have helped her manage and conquer these feelings, encouraging listeners to apply similar approaches in their own lives.
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Kendall discusses consumerism, highlighting its manipulative aspects and the role of social media. She points to the Stanley water bottle as a prime example, illustrating how even a simple product can become a consumerist symbol through online promotion by influencers, manipulating buyers into unnecessary purchases.
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Being around chronic complainers can be draining and challenging. Their persistent negativity might cloud your perspective, making it hard to stay positive. However, understanding their motivations and maintaining clear boundaries can help manage these interactions, preserving your well-being while offering support where possible.
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The Quinn sisters remind us that there are about 40 days left until graduation. They encourage us to cherish the present moment and our dwindling time together on our riverside campus. Instead of simply counting down the days until graduation, we should view each day as a precious gift and use this time to grow in grace.
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I've been critical of social media for its toxicity, often discussing my concerns about its negative impacts. Recently, I decided to take a break from TikTok, and the cleanse proved beneficial. While I've returned to the platform, I find that I'm not as drawn to it as before, which feels like a positive shift for me.
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Over sandwiches and laughter, the lunch table delved into the essence of goodness. Opinions varied from kindness and empathy to integrity and selflessness. Each voice echoed the belief that a good person embodies compassion, integrity, and a genuine desire to uplift others, resonating long after the meal ended.
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In yesterday’s Chapel, Ash offered a profound homily rooted in Matthew 13:47–52, which delves into the Parable of the Net where Jesus likens the kingdom of heaven to a net thrown into the sea, gathering fish of every kind. Once full, the fishermen pull it ashore, sit down, and sort the good fish into containers but throw away the bad ones. This parable illustrates the end times when angels will separate the wicked from the righteous, demonstrating the inclusivity of God’s kingdom that ultimately leads to a separation based on righteousness. Jesus concludes by comparing a knowledgeable scribe about the kingdom of heaven to a homeowner who brings out new and old treasures, suggesting the value of both the Old and New Testament teachings in understanding God’s kingdom.
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Student Stories! Kendall speaks to important revelations from observations of her friends!
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Personalization in hosting elevates the experience, making guests feel truly valued and understood. Tailoring details to their preferences demonstrates thoughtfulness and care, fostering a deeper connection and a memorable visit. It transforms a simple gathering into a unique, cherishable moment, enhancing comfort and enjoyment for all involved.
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Kendall navigates the sisterhood to gather students' aspirations before graduation, seeking to uncover the one thing each desires to accomplish before leaving St. Margaret's.
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As digital natives, Gen Z grapples with the allure of online platforms where delusional beliefs flourish. The 'Delusional Online' trend sees them encountering echo chambers of misinformation and conspiracy theories, fueling polarization and mistrust. Kendall notes that when this trend became a philosophy, what might have been humorous, became worrisome in "feeding into the Delulu." Gen Z's immersion in these spaces raises concerns about their susceptibility to radicalization and the impact on societal discourse. Understanding this trend is crucial for guiding Gen Z towards critical thinking and responsible online engagement, ensuring they navigate the digital landscape with discernment and resilience.
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Kendall shares insights into some school tidbits and then delves into the nature of "success." She emphasized that true success isn't measured by accolades but by personal growth, the courage to face challenges, and the impact one has on their community.
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Your environment significantly influences your well-being, shaping your habits, mindset, and opportunities. Access to green spaces, community resources, and positive social interactions fosters physical and mental health. Living in Tappahannock, Virginia, affords a safe and happy life!
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Embracing daily physical workouts cultivates discipline, enhances physical and mental health, and fosters resilience. It's about prioritizing oneself, pushing boundaries, and embracing discomfort for growth. This mindset values consistency over intensity, focuses on progress, and recognizes the transformative power of regular exercise on overall well-being.
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"Sisters Pride" delves into the complex interplay between gut feelings and logical thinking. This conversation explores how intuition and reasoned analysis can guide decisions, highlighting the balance between emotional instinct and rational thought in navigating life's challenges and opportunities.
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Kendall discusses the concept of girl power and its significance to institutions like St. Margaret's, which stands out as one of the nation's few all-girls boarding and day schools.
Girl Power is a cultural movement and philosophy that empowers women and girls, celebrating their strengths, capabilities, and rights. It challenges traditional gender roles and promotes equality, encouraging girls to pursue their ambitions in education, careers, sports, or leadership roles. Originating in the early 1990s with ties to music and pop culture, girl power emphasizes the importance of confidence, independence, and solidarity among women. By advocating for female empowerment and unity, girl power inspires a generation of girls to recognize their potential and assert their place in the world, breaking barriers and setting new standards for what women can achieve.
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Decision-making plays a pivotal role in shaping our futures, emphasizing the importance of this skill across all age groups. From students grappling with academic and career choices to adults reflecting on their paths, the ability to make informed decisions is crucial. Kendall’s personal journey from indecision to confidence underscores the significance of self-awareness and practice in honing this skill. She outlines a decision-making process that begins with defining the desired outcome and evaluating options in alignment with one’s goals. Strategies and psychological tricks, like gauging emotional reactions to hypothetical choices, aid in revealing true preferences. Differentiation between similar options, acknowledging the evolution of one’s decision-making process over time, and the importance of every decision, however small, she highlights. She stresses making decisions thoughtfully, based on personal desires rather than external pressures, to ensure satisfaction with outcomes. This installment of Sisters’ Pride champions self-awareness, thoughtful consideration, and personal growth as key to effective decision-making, shaping individuals’ futures through conscientious choices.
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To Mr. Lloyd, teaching is more than imparting knowledge; it's about connecting with students and sharing passions. Sure, the mundame tasks are disliked, interaction with students is cherished. Meeting Viola Wolfolk was pivotal, solidifying Mr. Lloyd's commitment to the school. Continuous learning through diverse interests and research is valued. The Aeneid is a favorite book. Mr. Lloyd advocates state funding for private education, especially for subjects like Latin. This encapsulates a holistic teaching view, emphasizing personal connection and academic enrichment while advocating for broader educational opportunities.
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Kendall leads a discussion about effective stress management strategies: music, comfort shows, physical space, physical activity and social interaction, and positive digital distractions.
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Exploring Sibling Dynamics and Learning Through Middle and Younger Sisters' Perspectives sibling relationships family dynamics `shared experiences. The sisters discuss their roles within their family, highlighting the dynamics and misconceptions associated with their positions as the middle and younger siblings. The conversation concludes with reflections on the value of sibling relationships, emphasizing mutual learning and the importance of such bonds beyond biological connections. The Daily Thistle also offer a sports reports on basketballs's state finals.
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Nestled in the rural outskirts, we've transitioned from the urban sprawl of Washington D.C. to the tranquility of the countryside. While we now savor the quiet and space of rural living, the city—with its proximity and all it offers—remains within easy reach. The myriad opportunities of urban life, from cultural events to professional advancements, beckon us still. Yet, we've traded the city's pervasive mentality of solitary independence, the pervasive "I am on my own" ethos, for the communal spirit and open spaces that define our new pastoral setting.
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The stimulation from music, video games, and movies can evoke emotions, inspire creativity, and provide temporary escape. Yet, excessive exposure can cultivate mindless consumption, leading to decreased productivity, social isolation, and detrimental effects on mental health. Moreover, certain media content may perpetuate negative stereotypes, desensitize to violence, and foster unrealistic expectations. Overindulgence can also contribute to physical inactivity and disrupt healthy sleep patterns. It's crucial to balance entertainment with mindful engagement, seeking activities that nourish the mind, body, and spirit while minimizing the adverse effects of prolonged exposure to passive entertainment mediums.
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Kendall's homily critiques leadership hypocrisy and a call to genuine humility and servant leadership. It challenges us to examine our motives and actions and break the mirror of self-absorption, ensuring that we align with the principles of love, humility, and service exemplified by Jesus Christ.
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Being obsessed with the chase in friendships can lead to superficial connections, overlooking genuine bonds for fleeting excitement. It fosters a cycle of constant pursuit, neglecting the value of authentic and lasting relationships. Prioritizing the thrill of pursuit over genuine connection may ultimately leave one feeling unfulfilled and emotionally disconnected.
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In the hustle of life, amidst the chaos, there's a beacon of wisdom and love – Mom. Amidst the whirlwind, pause, dial her number. Listen to her voice, cherish her advice. In every laugh, every tear, she's there. Call her, talk to her, seek her counsel – for in her, lies infinite comfort and guidance.
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The art of storytelling captivates through vivid narration, evoking emotions and transporting listeners to distant realms. Through masterful weaving of characters, plot, and setting, storytellers enchant, inspire, and illuminate, leaving indelible impressions that resonate long after the tale concludes.
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To turn a bad day around, focus on self-care: take deep breaths, go for a walk, or indulge in a favorite hobby. Reach out to a friend for support, practice gratitude by listing positives, or treat yourself to something special. Small acts of kindness and self-compassion can transform a difficult day.
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Kendall convenes a group of students in the collaboration room, creating a space for sharing and exchanging diverse stories. This gathering fosters a sense of community and understanding among the participants, enriching their collective experience through the power of storytelling.
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Kendall and Silvy discuss their holistic approach to self-care, emphasizing exercise and balanced nutrition. They delve into intuitive and mindful eating practices, highlighting the importance of listening to their bodies' signals and making conscious food choices for overall well-being.
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In the spring of one's senior year in high school, Kendall and Whitney speak about "living in the moment." A precious present encapsulates embracing the present fully, cherishing experiences as they unfold without dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. It's about mindfulness, appreciating the beauty of now, fostering gratitude, and finding joy in life's simple pleasures, cultivating a profound sense of fulfillment and contentment. Grab a hand and run to the river!
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How about a listen to parts of the day in the life of Kendall and Whitney?
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At St. Margaret's School, Kendall weaved through her circle of friends, relishing in the comforting symphony of grace-filled voices. In the nurturing environment, friendships blossomed, each interaction a testament to the supportive community at St. Margaret's.
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Transfiguration signifies a profound transformation, transcending mere physical change to embrace a higher, more sublime state. Imperfection is inherent in humanity, stemming from the original sin of Adam and Eve. We are not destined for flawlessness; rather, we are meant to grapple with doubts and fears, using them as catalysts for personal growth. Our aspirations for greatness should not be driven by narcissism, but rather by a fundamental human desire for evolution and metamorphosis. True glory lies not in static perfection, but in the dynamic process of self-discovery and transformation that defines our journey through life.
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In their candid conversation, Kendall and Whitney delve into the notion that embarrassing moments are only as embarrassing as one allows them to be. They reflect on personal experiences, emphasizing the importance of resilience and self-acceptance. By reframing mishaps as learning opportunities, they empower themselves and others to embrace vulnerability and grow from adversity. Through their shared wisdom, they inspire a shift in perspective, encouraging acceptance of imperfection and celebrating the human experience in all its complexities. In their laughter and understanding, they find solace and strength, united in their journey towards self-discovery and self-love.
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Trusting in the universe, we find solace in the belief that a divine plan is guiding our journey. Amidst life's uncertainties, this faith offers reassurance, fostering resilience and hope. It reminds us to surrender control, embracing the flow of existence with gratitude and acceptance. Through challenges and triumphs, we draw strength from the interconnectedness of all things, knowing that every twist and turn serves a purpose in the grand tapestry of life. In moments of doubt, we anchor ourselves in this trust, finding peace in the unfolding of events and the wisdom of the universe's intricate design.
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Swim team participation involves more than just individual athletes competing in their respective events; it encompasses a deeply rooted sense of community and teamwork that is essential for the success of both individuals and the team as a whole.
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Battling perfectionism is like being in a never-ending race against oneself. The relentless pursuit of flawlessness creates a paradox where achievements feel inadequate, and efforts seem never enough. This constant striving for the unattainable sets a trap of perpetual dissatisfaction and self-doubt. It turns success into an elusive shadow, always just beyond reach, making it difficult to celebrate victories or acknowledge progress. The fear of making mistakes can paralyze decision-making and stifle creativity, turning every task into a mountain of pressure. Learning to embrace imperfection and accept that mistakes are part of growth is key to breaking free from the chains of perfectionism.
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Kendall and Ash talk about friendships from the comforts of the St. Margaret's Sisterhood!
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"Eat, Sleep, Accomplish" embodies a mantra for those driven to achieve greatness in their endeavors. It emphasizes the importance of nurturing the body with good nutrition, the restoration that comes from adequate sleep, and the relentless pursuit of goals. This philosophy underlines a balanced approach to success, where physical well-being and focused ambition go hand in hand. It's a call to action for anyone aiming to turn dreams into reality through discipline, health, and unwavering determination.
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Embracing a digital detox, many are turning off TikTok and other social media platforms to reclaim precious time once lost to endless scrolling. This conscious decision opens up new opportunities for engaging in more constructive tasks. By stepping away from the constant barrage of online content, individuals find themselves with more hours in the day to devote to personal growth, hobbies, and meaningful interactions. This shift not only enhances productivity but also fosters mental well-being. In a world increasingly dominated by digital distractions, the choice to disconnect becomes a powerful statement in favor of a more intentional, fulfilling lifestyle.
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In Mark 1:21-28, Kendall interprets Jesus' encounter with the unclean spirit as a metaphor for our personal struggles. She suggests that just as Jesus confronts and casts out the unclean spirit, we, too, are called to confront our inner demons. Kendall emphasizes the importance of acknowledging our flaws and seeking transformation. By confronting our own 'unclean spirits,' Kendall believes we embrace a path of redemption and growth, much like the liberation experienced by the man in the synagogue under Jesus' compassionate authority.
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The widespread use of Photoshop, particularly on social media, sparks a discussion. While it allows creative expression and aesthetic enhancement, it also risks distorting reality, potentially harming self-perception and promoting unattainable beauty ideals. Both phenomena underscore the complex relationship between digital media trends and their ethical implications, reflecting how online content can influence real-world perceptions and behaviors.
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Embarking on a social media cleanse, Kendall decided to start by turning off TikTok. This platform, known for its endless stream of engaging content, had become a significant part of her daily routine. Initially, the silence felt unusual, a stark contrast to the constant buzz of notifications and updates. However, as days passed, she noticed a shift. Her mind seemed clearer, less cluttered with the relentless influx of information and entertainment. The absence of TikTok opened up spaces in my day, allowing for more meaningful activities and interactions. This detox, although challenging, brought a newfound sense of balance and tranquility to her life.
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Having a bad day is a universal experience. It's when everything seems to go wrong, and you feel overwhelmed by negativity. Personal issues, work stress, or external factors could trigger it. Coping with a bad day involves acknowledging your feelings, taking deep breaths, and finding healthy ways to manage stress. Talking to a friend, practicing mindfulness, or engaging in enjoyable activities can help improve your mood. Remember, bad days are temporary, and tomorrow is a new opportunity for a better day. Accepting the ups and downs of life is a crucial part of maintaining mental well-being.
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Kendall reminds us that accountability is crucial in understanding that failure is integral to life. It shapes our resilience, teaching us to embrace our setbacks rather than evading them. When we fail, it's not a signal to tune out or escape; instead, it's an opportunity to grow stronger and wiser. Recognizing our missteps and taking responsibility for them helps us learn and progress. By accepting failure as a natural step in life's journey, we cultivate a mindset of perseverance and determination. In the moments of overcoming our failures, we often find our greatest strengths and lessons.
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Kendall explores "creativity" - Creativity is a multifaceted and boundless concept, extending far beyond the mere act of drawing. It encompasses the ability to transcend traditional ideas, rules, patterns, and relationships to create meaningful new ideas, forms, methods, and interpretations. It's not confined to the arts alone but is evident in problem-solving, innovative thinking in science and technology, novel approaches in business, and even in everyday life solutions. Creativity involves imagination and originality, an adventurous spirit willing to take risks and think outside the box. It is a fundamental human capacity that fuels progress, enriches culture, and enhances personal and collective experiences.
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This episode of Sisters' Pride Kendall and Whitney focuses on New Year's Resolutions and the importance of nurturing the mind and body for a fresh and rejuvenated perspective. Join them as they explore ways to set goals, prioritize self-care, and embark on a journey toward a healthier and more vibrant outlook for the year ahead.
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Kendall is joined by her sister on "Sisters' Pride" to engage in a lively discussion about genuine friendship, spontaneity, ambition, and the essence of sisterhood. While their conversation may meander at times, it's clear that the joy of their sisterly bond infuses their exchange with a delightful sense of fun and camaraderie.
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Kendall and Whitney talk about role models. Underclassmen admire seniors who exemplify role model traits beyond mere status. These include achieving good grades, demonstrating consistent hard work, showing kindness to everyone, and maintaining a standard of excellence. These attributes inspire and guide younger students in their own academic and personal growth.
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Adopting new habits involves consistency and commitment. Start small, focusing on one habit at a time. Set clear, achievable goals and integrate them into your daily routine. Be patient and forgiving with yourself during setbacks. Tracking progress and celebrating small victories can greatly enhance your motivation and success in habit formation.
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On Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, the Daily Thistle shared some sounds and thoughts in honoring this great man. In the spirit of honoring one another, Kendall's Sister Pride spoke on the importance of personal engagement. The focus was on being present in conversations, highlighting the distractions of phones and technology, and emphasizing the value of attentive, meaningful dialogue in the spirit of Dr. King's teachings, hearing one another.
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The conversation between Kendall, Charlotte, and Whitney reflects a thoughtful and mature understanding of the unique challenges faced by young people today. Their discussion about growing up too fast, the generational gaps despite being in high school and college, and the impact of social media trends, highlights the complexities of modern youth. They emphasize the importance of living in the moment and not getting too caught up in the past or the rapidly changing trends of social media. This indicates a deep awareness of how these factors can swing young people's perspectives and experiences in extreme directions.
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Kendall and Sister's Pride "Week with Charlie" continues exploring social media today, revealing varied perspectives. While one embraced it as a platform for self-expression and networking, another might find it overwhelming and intrusive. Their differing views sparked a thoughtful discussion and a deeper understanding of how technology shapes their lives.
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Balancing sports and college work can be challenging but crucial for student-athletes. While excelling in both areas is the goal, prioritizing academics is essential. It requires effective time management, discipline, and support from coaches and professors. Enjoying the game is vital; sports should be a source of passion and fun. Striking a balance ensures personal growth and success on and off the field. Ultimately, while the thrill of competition is essential, the true victory lies in achieving academic and athletic excellence simultaneously.
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Virginia's moderate winter weather allows for outdoor activities and a chance to appreciate the beauty of nature, all while avoiding the harsher conditions found in some northern states. It's a perfect balance that allows Virginians to savor winter without being bundled up in layers upon layers.
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Kendall's Sister Pride explores a discussion on the stress of college applications. It's all about trusting the process.
Although a first choice eludes many students, the path often leads to something even more fulfilling. It's proof that sometimes the unexpected leads to the best outcome.
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Christmas Eve from King's College, Cambridge.
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Exams! Also, Advent Friends Revealed.
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Picture Day, not just another day! A report on the Scotties loss to Collegiate in basketball
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Learn about what our 9th graders are doing this week!
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Choosing words wisely is essential; they can't be taken back once spoken. Consider the impact of your words on others' feelings and relationships. Thoughtful communication fosters understanding and harmony. Think before you speak, as words can heal or hurt, and create connections or distances. Choose kindness and empathy in your expressions.
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Embrace change, flowing with life's currents like a river evolving with each twist. Adapting nurtures growth, turning challenges into opportunities. Let change sculpt your journey, shaping a resilient spirit that navigates the unpredictable waters of existence. Embracing transformation is the key to unlocking the beauty of an ever-changing, dynamic life.
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Meet the members of our "Stream Dream Team" as they begin their live streams of our basketball teams.
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To master stress, prioritize self-care with regular exercise, sufficient sleep, and a balanced diet. Practice mindfulness through meditation or deep breathing to stay present. Break tasks into manageable steps, set realistic goals, and learn to say no when needed. Seek support from friends or professionals, and maintain a positive mindset.
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Thanksgiving in the Sisterhood of St. Margaret's School
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Today, we will begin our Thanksgiving Break, but not before sharing some news about our St. Margaret's Day.
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In an exciting girls' basketball scrimmage, St. Margaret's triumphed over Essex High, showcasing their skill and teamwork. The players demonstrated exceptional athleticism and strategic prowess, securing a well-deserved victory. The game highlighted St. Margaret's commitment to excellence on the basketball court, leaving fans impressed and anticipating future successes.
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Kendall shares some thoughts about learning on the river with the students of Essex High.
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What is progress?
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We know that being on a St. Margaret's team fosters physical fitness and promotes a healthy lifestyle. They instill discipline, teamwork, and time management skills. This competitive participation enhances social skills, builds friendships, and enhances our Sisterhood as a community. It also develops resiliency and perseverance, which are crucial for facing life's challenges. They also teach goal-setting and the importance of hard work for success. Go Scotties!
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Self-esteem poisoning is a toxic process, often fueled by negative self-talk, comparison, or persistent criticism. It erodes confidence, hinders growth, and can lead to self-sabotage. Recognizing and challenging these harmful patterns is crucial to detoxifying self-esteem, fostering a healthier, more positive self-perception, and a path to self-restoration.
A robust self-esteem fuels the engine of achievement, serving as a catalyst for daring dreams and ambitious goals. Believing in one's capabilities propels individuals to overcome challenges, embrace opportunities, and persist in the pursuit of success. The synergy between self-esteem and achievement forms a powerful loop of empowerment and personal fulfillment.
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Kendall speaks with her swim teammates after day 1 of practice.
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Kendall speaks to a classmate, Miami's Silvy C. '24 about cultural differences.
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Kendall speaks about conflict resolution after sharing an appeal to support our Afghan students.
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Kendall speaks about anxiety and that it's something to learn about - how to overcome it in times of distress. To curb anxiety, try relaxation techniques like deep breathing and mindfulness. Exercise regularly, maintain a balanced diet, and get enough sleep. Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol, and consider therapy or counseling. Organize your thoughts with to-do lists, break tasks into smaller steps, and practice self-compassion. Reach out to friends and family for support.
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In life's journey, remember you're not alone. At St. Margaret's the Sisterhood is here with friends, seek guidance from family, or confide in a mentor. Together, we find strength, support, and the warmth of companionship. Sharing our burdens and joys makes the path easier, reminding us that we're never truly alone in this world.
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Kendall is joined by Troi H. '26, who spoke with Mr. Cunningham about his year at St. Margaret's teaching Religion and Math.
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Welcome back to the Daily Thistle! College visits and mid-term exams are now behind us, so Kendall returns with Halloween stories and news from the Dean's Office.
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To prevent girls from growing up too fast, encourage age-appropriate activities, set boundaries, limit exposure to adult content, and monitor technology use. Create a supportive environment, promote healthy relationships, and foster an active life.
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I am thinking about Dr. Fauntleroy in today's Acts of Kindness. Acts of kindness, no matter how small, spread positivity and strengthen connections among people. They can include helping a neighbor, offering a smile, or donating to charity. These actions have the power to brighten someone's day, inspire others, and create a more compassionate and harmonious world.
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Creativity is an integral part of individual identity. It's the unique way in which a person expresses their thoughts, emotions, and ideas. It shapes personality, preferences, and problem-solving approaches, making each person distinct. Embracing creativity empowers us to showcase our true selves and leave a mark on the world.
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Comparisons among teens can lead to self-esteem issues, anxiety, and depression. Constantly measuring oneself against peers can create unrealistic standards and undermine individual growth. Encouraging self-acceptance and emphasizing personal progress over comparison can help mitigate these dangers and promote healthier self-esteem in teenagers.
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Meet Ms. Poole, who teaches psychology, history, serves as a dorm parent, and coaches field hockey.
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Kendall begins her talks with the faculty! Today, we meet Ms. Looney, who teaches history and Ancient and European history.
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Self-care is essential for maintaining mental and physical well-being. Allocate time daily to relax, recharge, and prioritize self-care. Activities like meditation, exercise, reading, or a soothing swim can help reduce stress, improve focus, and foster a healthier, more balanced life. Make self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine.
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Acts of Kindness!
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Excellence in high school involves a commitment to academic, personal, and extracurricular growth. It signifies consistently outstanding performance in coursework, demonstrating a deep understanding of subjects and a thirst for knowledge. Excellence extends beyond grades, encompassing leadership, character, and community involvement. High-achieving students often engage in challenging honors or advanced placement courses while balancing sports, clubs, or volunteer work. They exhibit critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a drive to excel in their chosen areas. Maintaining integrity, respect, and a growth mindset are key aspects of high school excellence. Ultimately, it paves the way for future success, setting a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
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Speaking of sustained relationships.
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Listen to the entire SGA Presidential Debate!
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Kendall speaks about downtime and what to do. Meet our Photo Club and what they are all about!
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The phrase "leave it better than you found it" is a principle that encourages individuals to improve or enhance a situation, place, or thing rather than merely maintaining or leaving it as they encountered it. It's a call to take responsibility and contribute positively to one's surroundings, whether it's a physical space, a project, a relationship, or a community. This mindset emphasizes the importance of positively impacting, improving, and striving for progress rather than just maintaining the status quo. It promotes the idea of leaving a legacy of improvement and contributing to improving the world around us.
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Living in the precious present means fully immersing oneself in the current moment, appreciating it without dwelling on the past or obsessing over the future. It's about mindfulness, focusing on the now, and finding joy in the simplest of things. It involves accepting life's impermanence, understanding that each moment is unique and fleeting. This mindset fosters gratitude, reduces stress, and enhances well-being. To embrace the present, practice meditation, deep breathing, or simply pausing to notice your surroundings. Cultivate meaningful connections, pursue passions, and prioritize self-care. By living in the present, you can savor the beauty and richness of each passing moment.
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Are you sitting at a desk in the classroom as the teacher lectures? What will you remember? Is that the future of education as America continues its decline.
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A student-athlete is a dedicated individual who excels both in academics and sports. Balancing rigorous coursework and intense athletic training requires discipline and time management. These individuals are driven by their passion for their chosen sport and a commitment to their education.
Student-athletes often showcase remarkable teamwork, leadership, and perseverance, attributes that serve them well in both arenas. They learn valuable life lessons about hard work, resilience, and the importance of setting goals.
These remarkable individuals are not just athletes; they are students first, striving for excellence in the classroom while pursuing their athletic dreams. Their dedication and determination inspire others and represent the embodiment of a well-rounded and accomplished individual.
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Kendall speaks to respect
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Kendall reflects on the Volleyball team's hustle.
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Kendall shares our weekend BSSAC event.
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Kendall speaks of a Bowdoin College tradition that fits with St. Margaret's inclusive atmosphere of growing in grace.
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Kendall explores "knowing who you are...."
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Kendall speaks poignantly of being a girl in 2023—updates on Volleyball and the weekend plans with BSSAC.
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We celebrate Roger and Buddy's tremendous gift to the school. We also celebrate our field hockey team's first win of the season.
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Kendall speaks to gossip, and it's incessant. It is a poisonous social habit that wreaks havoc by sowing distrust, damaging reputations, and fracturing relationships. It thrives on half-truths and assumptions, causing emotional harm and spreading negativity. Its destructive nature erodes trust, fuels insecurity, and stifles open communication, hindering personal and professional growth while fostering a toxic atmosphere. How to stop -
Lead by example; refrain from participating. Address gossip politely, redirecting the conversation. Encourage open communication and conflict resolution. Share positive news and focus on uplifting topics. Promote empathy and discourage judgment.
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St. Margaret's School is pleased to announce the school has received transformative gifts totaling $2 Million from longtime supporters Roger Sanders and E. Carlton "Buddy" Wilton, Jr. The gifts are the largest in the school's 102-year history and will fund its focus on river-centric 21st-century learning, aptly called "S.T.R.E.A.M.," along with St. Margaret's recommitment to faith-based education. The money will serve as seed funding for a $10 Million fundraising goal.
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Sisters' Pride speaks with athletes about their experiences.
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When toxic becomes trendy!
Toxicity can become trendy when negative behaviors or attitudes are glamorized or normalized in popular culture, social media, or society at large. This phenomenon can be driven by a desire for shock value, rebellion against conventional norms, or the pursuit of attention and notoriety. When toxic behaviors, such as excessive competitiveness, cruelty, or self-destructive habits, are portrayed as cool or admirable, they can influence impressionable individuals. This trend can harm mental and emotional well-being, fostering a toxic environment where harmful actions are perpetuated. Counteracting this trend involves promoting healthier values and encouraging empathy, kindness, and positive role models.
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How to handle rejection?
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Field Hockey returns to St. Margaret's School. A roundtable on study habits in Sisters' Pride
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Is there such a thing as good advice? From the table of my Religion class, here at St. Margaret's School.
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Welcome back to the nation's only independent school daily podcast and newsfeed from the banks of the Rappahannock River.
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Kendall ends our year with a final Sisters' Pride with some reflections...
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Outside Opinions. Those not in your close circle. Think about it.
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Report from our Spring Sports Banquet!
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This is an abbreviated edition of the Daily Thistle
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Kendall on Meditation!
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Getting to know glass! Reflecting on the Chrysler Museum's Mobile Glass Studio.
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Today we welcome the Chrysler Museum’s cleverly-crafted mobile studio to our campus. Our students will be exposed to the captivating nature of glass art and can see the molten magic live and in person. The mobile glass studio includes a furnace, annealer, blowpipes, punties, hand tools, glass rods, and other materials and equipment needed for glassblowing and other glass art techniques.
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Words that surround us...
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St. Margaret's School is saddened by the passing of alumna and former English faculty member Ann Brooke (Jody) Perkins Lewis, born September 2, 1948 and passed away May 3, 2023. A memorial service will be held on May 13 at 11 a.m. at St. John's Episcopal, and following the service will be a reception at the Brockenbrough House.
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Speaking on how to recharge!
On the River today the sun will rise at 6:04 and set at 8:04 tonight
It will be a waning gibbous moon with 92% illumination
Low tide will be at 11:08 and high tide at 4:30 low tide will return tonight at 11:01 pm.
There is a slight chance of rain after 4:00 pm - we might see thunderstorms tonight.
Winds will be from the southwest from 6 to 8 miles per hour
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Lucretia Hart Clay and an abbreviated edition of The Daily Thistle.
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Hey, y'all welcome to today's sisters' pride; today we are talking about what study method can work for you. Exams are just around the corner, and if you're in AP classes, they are in the next couple of days. It's essential to start planning how you will approach your studying now so that when the time comes, you are not feeling overwhelmed with the impending doom of forgetting the material and being tasked with retaining it all in a short period.
The first thing to recognize is your learning style. Some people are visual learners meaning they learn best from seeing images or watching summary youtube videos. Others are auditory learners and learn best through lectures or podcasts. And last point is that being a Kinesthetic learner means you take a more hands-on approach. Making flashcards or drawing out the material can help you study.
Sometimes you can be a mix of all three types of learning styles. For success during the exams, figure out the best way you can learn so you can study and use your time the most effectively.
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Today we are talking about routines!
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Close to 200 alumnae came to campus to celebrate the school's Centennial. The Bells hosted a Friday party in the B-House as students gathered for the Lantern Ceremony. Alumnae later joined in the Lantern Ceremony and encircled the Seniors and Juniors in what became a special moment of our Sisterhood.
On Saturday morning, Alumnae joined in some strategic planning sessions as St. Margaret's looks to a future where grace and artificial intelligence must coexist.
On Saturday night, we celebrated our May Ball under the tent as Alums gathered by the new dock classroom to begin an evening of Centennial Festivities on the river. We were heartened when alums appeared later at May Ball to join in dancing the night away.
Sunday Morning, the traditional Charms Chapel included the blessing of the Senior's charms by Bishop Susan Goff. It was followed by a luncheon with alumnae awards highlighting the work of Janie Sellers, Class of 1971 - and the long-standing work and support of Mary Crowther, of the Class of 1948. That's right, this year, she celebrated her 75th Reunion.
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Centennial Weekend, May Ball, Lantern Ceremony, Alumnae Reunion and more!
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Speaking to Burnout!
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Although under the weather, Kendall speaks to what does it even mean to be smart?
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TikToc - some advice. . .
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"What are social media aesthetics? Essentially, it’s everything that makes your brand unique and original. It’s in how often you post and what colors you choose for your visuals. It’s about your fonts and policy for working with comments. It’s in the essence and mood of your brand."
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Kendall speaks about S.T.R.E.A.M. Days
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Kendall visits with The Rt. Rev’d E. Mark Stevenson is the 14th Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Virginia. He was electedon June 4, 2022, at St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes School, Alexandria, and was ordained and consecrated on December 3, 2022, at The Saint Paul’s Baptist Church in Richmond. More than 35 bishops from around the United States, England, Tanzania and Ghana joined in the laying on of hands along with Presiding Bishop Michael Bruce Curry, Chief Consecrator.
Bishop Stevenson is focused on centering his ministry – and that of the Diocese of Virginia – on the teaching and love of Jesus. Central to that is an emphasis on truth telling and reckoning as we address issues of systemic racism; life-giving formation as followers of Jesus; and transparency and accountability as we interact with each other as the family of God.
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Kendall speaks about being among supporting people.
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Being among supporting people!
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Kendall speaks about Taylor Swift and changes in music over time.
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Getting involved with your community.
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Join us for a final talk with Rev. Candine Johnson.
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Those were some of the sounds from last night’s International Festival. We have over 12 nations represented in our Sisterhood and the festivities includes international cuisine and a program following dinner.
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On the River today, the sun will rise at 6:47 a.m. and set at 7:34 p.m. It will be a waxing gibbous moon with 99% illumination.
On Sister's Pride, Kendall speaks about Fast Fashion.
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That was part of Rev. Dr. Candine Johnson's Farewell to our Sisterhood at yesterday's Chapel. While Rev. Johnson serves as our Chaplain, her real job is serving as Rector at St. John's Church, located across the street from St. Margaret's School. Unfortunately in her decision to leave St. John’s, its impact is a loss for us, too.
This Easter Sunday, she will serve her last service in the Tappahannock Church. On May 1st, she begins her new calling to St. Bartholomew's Church in Cherry Hill, New Jersey.
The role of the Chaplain at St. Margaret's is not about directing announcements or speakers leading moral assemblies under the guise of "Chapel" like other schools. As an Episcopal School, Rev. Johnson's approach adheres to the liturgy in the Book of Common Prayer - this remains and will remain the St. Margaret's way.
Our Head of School noted, "As we will deeply miss her sermons, rich in scholarship and an inviting theology, we will come round right to welcome a new chaplain. Remember, we go to church in the communion as a community, bound by our liturgy - life goes on, the words shall echo in our hearts and minds - as shall the voice of Rev. Johnson."
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We shared a conversation among some students discussing our motto, “As we grow in age may we grow in Grace.” It comes from a prayer in the 1928 edition of The Book of Common Prayer. While the school’s mission includes the words, Belong, Believe, Become - it is really the motto that speaks to, and binds the Sisterhood. Here are some excerpts from a Friday conversation in our religion class.
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Kendall shares some thoughts on body dysmorphic disorder.
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A conversation with the softball team!
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Kendall speaks about the opening softball game and working as a team.
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TEAM! In this season of the Final Four, Kendall looks at what it is to be a member of an athletic team.
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Speaking of homework, put down that mobile device and prepare for your next day.
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Happy Ramadan! Kendall's Sister's Pride looks at living outside the White Picket Fence.
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Kendall speaks about rumors versus venting.
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Kendall speaks about getting swept up in following the life of an online influencer.
"An online influencer is a person who has established credibility and a significant following on social media platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, and Twitter, among others. They use their online presence to influence their followers' opinions, behaviors, and purchasing decisions through their content, whether through product endorsements, reviews, or lifestyle posts.
Online influencers can range from celebrities to regular people who have gained a large following through their unique content, style, or expertise in a particular niche. They often collaborate with brands and companies to promote products and services to their followers, and their recommendations can significantly impact consumer behavior.
In recent years, online influencing has become increasingly competitive, with many aspiring to become successful online influencers and earn a living from their social media presence."
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Welcoming Spring and news from the BBC.
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Today the Sisterhood returns from their Spring Break as we set our sights on the best time of the year, spring at Saint Margaret’s School.
As we began spring break you might remember that our basketball team was headed off to the Final Four in the state playoffs. The team played Roanoke Catholic and for much of the game the teams traded off leads in what was a tight game. C.C. Wright put the Scotties on top 42 to 40 with 2:43 minutes left in the game. However, Roanoke Catholic made an impressive run in the final two minutes to lift them over the Scotty's 52 to 43. Roanoke Catholic fell to Walsingham 45-41 in the finals.
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Kendall wants us to reflect on the 3rd Quarter and our work in the community.
Tonight basketball heads to Richmond to play in the State Tournament's Final Four. The number three Scottie's faces number two Roanoke Catholic at a neutral court. A fan bus will be headed to the game for our dedicated fans.
We are going on Spring Break - hear from us in two weeks.
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Last night the Scotties defeated Richmond Christian 52-37 which places the Scotties in the Final Four in Richmond on Friday.
The game's live stream will be published next week following the state playoffs.
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Happy first day of March today we are hearing two pieces from the second-place winner of our I have a dream Reading/poetry contest. Rachel very is a freshman here at Saint Margaret’s, and she recorded her poems to share with all of the sisterhood. I am so excited to share with you all as I think it’s very moving.
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Kendall shares an "Express Yourself" essay on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
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We open today’s Daily Thistle with some sounds from the weekend's performance of The Wizard of Oz. On Friday afternoon, the cast hosted students from Aylett Country Day School and Rappahannock Middle School. On Friday evening, parents and friends packed the gym for the troupe’s second performance. By Saturday afternoon, the gym had almost reached the standing room only as our reservation board was overwhelmed. Needless to say, the Cast did a fantastic job in delivering three beautiful performances. As promised, here are some sounds of the performance.
Sisters' Pride speaks to Pop Culture and how it affects our lives.
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Meet some of the cast from the Wizard of Oz!
Sisters' Pride considers Confrontation, whether you love it or you don't, it is something that causes riptides, sometimes for the worst and sometimes for the better. The most important thing to realize when dealing with confrontation is to ask yourself if this is a beneficial thing to do. Is this healthy for both parties involved
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Kendall speaks about Parables.
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Kendall speaks about Envy in The Sisters' Pride.
Students seeking extra help in math can visit Dr. Ni in the Latane Parlor from 7:15 to 8:15 pm.
Students are reminded to take advantage of the extra help sessions during the weekdays, it is the SMS advantage.
Spanish I & II are testing today.
Students who would like help with their writing should take advantage of Dr Wilbur who will be in the library on Thursdays from 9:45 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.
The cast and crew of The Wizard of Oz are putting the final touches on their dress rehearsals. performances will be this Friday at 7:00 p.m. and Saturday at 2:00 p.m. in the St. Margaret's Auditorium.
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Today I had the opportunity to sit down with Ella Gould, our student government president and current senior at st. Margaret’s. We got to talk about Ella’s ISP, which stands for Independent Student Project. Ella was a student who was passionate about history and took interest in finding a project that would dive deeper into that subject. She explored the nearby area and found the Essex County Museum, where she scheduled an interview and received a position as a student intern. Today we had a conversation about what it was like being in that experience and how it affects her life as a student today and in the future
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Hey, ya’ll, and welcome to today's sister's pride. Today we are discussing the importance of keeping your backpack, binder, and life organized. We were all taught some organizational skills when we were growing up. We must recognize the importance of keeping ourselves organized. Dr. Cook, one of the English Teachers here at St. Margaret’s, said that organization is one of the best skills to have in life. It's so true! Organization can relate to how you order your clothes in your closet or color-coordinate your binder. It can also be how you manage your day, organizing it into parts for each subject, using your homework time wisely, and organizing the priorities in your life.
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Today I had the opportunity to talk to two girls on the basketball team. Cece and Adanna are both high level athletes who are passionate about SMS basketball. As a team, the players have worked to many wins, and have learned life lessons along the way.
During our conversation we not only talked about statistics and the sport itself but what it’s like being on a team, and how having supportive friends and coaches can shape your experience in a sport.
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Today we speak about cultivating a good and constructive relationship with your teacher.
On the River today, the sun will rise at 6:56 a.m. and set at 5:47 p.m. it will be a winning crescent moon with a 21% illumination. High tide will be at 9:48 a.m., and low tide at 502 p.m. high tide will return at 10:10 p.m.
Today there will be a chance of rain between 7:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. It will be mostly cloudy with a high near 72° winds of 5 to 14 miles per hour from the south. The chance of precipitation is 40%.
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Hey guys welcome to today's sisters pride. Today we are going to have a compilation of stories that a couple of students, including myself, have noticed around campus. They are small acts of kindness or even big ones. Everyone will remain anonymous, but the silent heroes' acts of kindness should be shared.
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Happy Valentine’s Day from St. Margaret’s School
On the River today, the sun will rise at 6:59 a.m. and set at 5:45 p.m.
High tide will be at 7:22 a.m., and low tide at 2:43 p.m. High tide returns at 7:43 p.m.
It will be a waning crescent moon with 42% illumination.
Last night our basketball team defeated Fredericksburg Academy 47-22. The win extends the Scotties' overall record to 11-8 and 6-2 in the region. Next up is at St. Catherine’s on Wednesday.
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Today's episode is on the Superbowl; As a country, Football tends to be the center of our culture. Based on the city you grew up in determines the colors you wear on Superbowl day. Families travel together, joined by a bag of potato chips and a diet coke. A sense of kinsmanship can be rare to find on any other day.
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Today is Friday, and it's a great time to reflect on the week you’ve had. It's essential to check in with yourself and remember on your stress levels or lack thereof concerning your academic and social life. As students who are academically challenged and motivated, it can be hard to find the right balance of spending time doing your homework and spending time with friends and family.
It's important to know where your priorities lie if you feel like school needs to become a priority, you have to almost make a pact with yourself saying that you will put homework over hanging out with friends.
On the contrary, if you feel like school has encompassed your whole being and taking a step back for the weekend is something that will benefit you emotionally and in the classroom then it is just as essential to make that a priority as well.
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Today I want to talk about living in a small town. The town of Tappahannock holds 2,241 people. For some people that might be the exact hallmark-town charm they are looking for, for others it might not be as appealing. So we're gonna dive into the benefits and other factors that weigh in when living in a small town.
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So today, I wanted to share with you a journal entry assignment I had in my American literature class. The prompt was to explain your relationship with social media.
My relationship with social media can be described in one word: toxic. I was exposed to the media at age fourteen. Being surrounded by peers who had it years before me, I felt behind. As a child, social media felt like a “secret club.” Parents warned you from becoming too invested and tried to prevent the exposure of influencers from their innocent-minded children for as long as possible. Then society got in the way.
Anything from fashion trends, makeup hacks, and cat videos, the algorithm caters to each video, each comment, and each post to you. It targets your insecurities, your interests, and your passions. When you download the app, there is no cost. But is it truly free if you're selling your information to an algorithm that gets closer and closer to your inner thoughts and ideas? Yet we go about our day knowing what's happening but not genuinely caring.
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Hey, y'all welcome back and I hope the community is up on its feet again. As many of you have experienced over the past few days my sister and I have had covid and it brought me back to our first time experiencing this pandemic and how much we have individually changed since the pandemic but also how our society has changed.
Do yall remember the time before covid? Before TikTok became the lifeline of our daily routine. Before the pandemic was a word we just heard in history books. There were times when I missed pre-pandemic life, but then I remembered the silver lining of the pandemic. For one- I got to spend quality time with my sister, who was also in quarantine. We spent time doing Walmart crafts together and catching up on our favorite Netflix shows. In between afternoon naps, we even started cooking.
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On April 28th, we are calling on the Saint Margaret’s Sisterhood, near and far, young and old, to return to the river for our Centennial Gala. This is one of those “once in a lifetime” gatherings marking our 100th year. While the school did open in 1921, it was not until 1923 that the first graduation took place - so we decided to celebrate our Centennial with our Centennial Class, the Class of 2023. This will be both our Reunion Weekend, May Ball and Centennial Gala all rolled up into one. So, in the week before the Kentucky Derby - we hope you will return to Tappahannock and the campus of your youth.
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Yesterday, Mr. Foulk brought an opportunity to the table for his AP US History class. We were going to be student representatives of the Garden club of the middle peninsula and learn about their positions on government laws and bills concerning climate change, environmental education, and clean water and energy. The week before our big trip we prepared by doing research on a topic of interest that fell into the categories that the Garden club would represent.
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Today we are talking about a concept I recently came across when I was reading a book called “What drives Winning '' It talks about this basketball team. They had this player who was a very goal driven person, constantly checking things off his goal bucket list and always adding to it. They talked about how you can get lost in the accomplishment and lose yourself in the process. That is a confusing concept so let’s dive into that a little bit.
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Happy Monday everyone. Today we are talking about three ways you can set your week off right. Monday marks the beginning of new topics in your classes, new homework assignments and new challenges throughout your week.
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Today we welcome to campus the Saint Margaret's School Board of Governors for their Winter Meeting.
Tonight our basketball team will host Fredericksburg Christian Academy at 5:00 p.m. A live stream of the game will be available on our YouTube channel.
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Today we are talking about Seasonal depression. Here is a quick dictionary definition for those who have never heard this term before.is a type of. depression that's related to changes in seasons
It could cause us to stay inside for most of our day or even become anti-social and removed from our friends and family. The science behind it is that less sunlight and shorter days are thought to be linked to a chemical change in the brain and may cause SAD. There are more than 3 million cases of Seasonal Depression in the US each year.
The best way to combat this is to go outside. Even if the weather isn’t to your liking, try to find something you enjoy and go to the river; even in the winter, there is so much beauty at the waterfront. Exposure to sunlight helps you feel more at peace and happier in cold winter when there might not be as much sunlight.
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This is an abbreviated edition of the Daily Thistle for Wednesday, January 25th, Two Thousand Twenty-Three.
On the river today, the sun will rise at 7:17 this morning and set at 5:23 this afternoon. Low tide will be at 10:54 and high tide at 4:32. It will be a waxing crescent moon with an 18% illumination.
There is a 90% chance of rain after 10:00 am today, cloudy with a high near 56 degrees.
Last night the Scotties were defeated by the Christchurch team after defeating them on their home floor earlier in the season.
Congratulations to our students who made the Honor and Merit Rolls. Students were recognized yesterday at our Morning Meeting.
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In today’s Sister’s Pride episode, we are touching on speaking in shorthand. By shorthand, I mean saying things like “lol” or “Brb” “ttyl” which we usually say in the text we then speak.
This is something that I have just become aware of recently. Over the winter break, my siblings were joking around with me as I would use “bro” or say “brb” if I had to go grab something. It wasn’t until this joke that I realized how much I use acronyms to speak. Then, I thought about how disappointed William Shakespeare would be if he heard me.
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Today I wanted to share a story about our community. One of the members in our school had a family member go through an accident. As soon as this news reached the ears of our community we rallied around our friend in need and a senior and faculty member worked together on giving our member a gift basket that they had created for this specific event.
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An expanded version of The Daily Thistle includes a 15-minute round table conversation about social media among the Sisterhood at St. Margaret's School.
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Today we are talking about investing in our education as students. As someone who is new to the St. Margaret's community I realize the quality of our education with fresh eyes. As students, we need to invest and deep dive into what we truly love.
We all have a class that we dread going to. Everyone experiences it. On the other hand, we all have a class we look forward to, maybe it's because of the teacher or maybe its the subject matter. Either way, it is our responsibility as good students to invest in the classes that we love, and learn to grow from the classes we don’t.
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This is an abbreviated version of The Daily Thistle.
Remember, Scotties, ADD DROP ends this Friday. See Mrs. Foulk for more information.
It’s been an active week for the cast and crew of the Wizard of Oz. At yesterday’s rehearsal there was much fanfare as the munchkins, in the form of elementary students, were on campus.
Plans are underway for our Sunday trip to Washington, DC during Winter Weekend.
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School Chapel celebrates the life and work of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Today we are going to talk about society's perception of women. As a girls’ school, we are preparing to enter a world where society has put us into two molds. A stay at home wife or a career-driven woman. Each of these topics come to its own sets of stereotypes. Whether we follow what we truly want out of life or not we will, unfortunately, be under the disapproving eye of society at all times.
If we want to be more focused on a career, society will tell us we aren’t focused enough on being a mother, even if motherhood isn't the path we want to follow in life. On the other hand if we are more focused on being a mother we are not driven enough or lack the will to make a difference in the business world.
No matter which path we choose in life we are always surrounded by the judgments of others, so I came to a conclusion. Do what makes you happy. Don’t worry about whether some people think you are too career focused or if others think that you're not driven enough. So do what makes you the happiest, and stick to it. Don’t let outside influences affect your thinking.
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The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was an American Baptist minister who led the struggle against racial discrimination in the 1960s. He was a provocative preacher and passionately advocated the principle of non-violent protest, affirming that one’s opponents should be met with compassion rather than aggression. He was born on the 15th of January 1929 in Atlanta, Georgia. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964, and in 1968 he was assassinated. The Episcopal Church recognizes Dr. King as a Saint, and we celebrate the Feast of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on April 4th, commemorating his martyrdom.
In today’s episode, I wanted to talk about setting a good example and what that looks like. Everyone at our school can be a positive influence on others. It doesn’t always have to revolve around age or grade level. We can all learn from each other.
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Kendall speaks to TikTok and learns how it can overtake your daily pursuits in life.
We visited Mr. Bell's Religion class where an open mic captures students leading a discussion on religion in our contemporary times. While we study the old and new Testament and our Anglican Heritage as an Episcopal School, students often lead discussions in various areas.
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Body dysmorphia is something that surrounds us in our schools, social media accounts, and social outings in general. Maybe you have struggled with body dysmorphia, or maybe you're not even sure what it is. Here's a quick definition: Body dysmorphia is when you obsess or critique a certain part about your physical appearance. It can be a minor or even an imaginary flaw you see in yourself. But it affects your mental state heavily and can cause you to see yourself differently.
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Today, we are talking about burnout. It's that feeling where your brain feels absolutely fried and you are overwhelmed with the growing to-do list and you have no motivation to do. Everyone has experienced burnout. It’s a natural emotion to feel so today we are going to talk about what can cause burnout and how to get out of it.
I see burnout in two different ways. In social situations and in school
When we experience burnout with friends and family you might start to ignore some texts, or feel like it’s a chore to hangout with them.
At school, we feel burnout when we see the homework assignments start to pile up, and we have no motivation to finish them. With friendships and family, it might prove to be useful to spend alone time to recharge. We all have social batteries, and it is important to spend time to recharge.
The best way to heal a case of burnout is to slow down. Find time where you can reconnect with yourself and realign your priorities.At school, the worst thing to do is let your homework slip. Put aside some time, even if it’s just 30 minutes, to get some of your homework pile done. The more you procrastinate and neglect the work, the worse you will feel in the long run.
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Kendall speaks about New Year's Resolutions.
Yesterday we welcomed Dr. Jonathan Cook who joined our English Department. Dr. Cook has taught at the secondary school and college levels. His enormous scholarship compliments his teaching of American literature. He is a literary scholar, educator, and musician born in Washington, DC, raised in the Hudson Valley of New York.
He has a B.A. from Harvard College and a Ph.D. from Columbia University. His primary field of concentration as a literary scholar is nineteenth-century American literature, and he is a specialist in the writings of Herman Melville. He has published an extensive roster of books, articles, and reviews and recorded numerous one-hour podcasts on selected American and English literary works, available on YouTube and SoundCloud. A long-time guitar and mandolin player, he has composed several original works for the steel-string acoustic guitar. But what the students thought was really interesting today is that he actually attended Woodstock in 1969 as a young teenager.
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On this first Day of Christmas, we share some sounds of the students and faculty at St. Margaret's as they celebrated a Christmas service entirely in Latin.
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On this Christmas Eve, we share the sounds of The Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols from King's College at Cambridge University.
King's College's Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols was first held on Christmas Eve 1918. The service was first broadcast in1928 and, with the exception of 1930, it has been broadcast annually, even during the Second World War. Sometime in the early 1930s the BBC began broadcasting the service on overseas programmes and it continues today across the BBC.
From King's College in Cambridge, England
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Here at St. Margarets we start our day early. If you are anything like me you are not a morning person. No matter how much sleep you get it still seems like an impossible task to get up with the sun not out yet. So today I want to talk to you about how I found my morning routine, and how that affected my day and maybe you can pull a couple of tips from what I’ve learned and apply it to your own life.
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Join us Monday, December 19th as Kendall returns with a special edition Sisters’ Pride. Kendall will be joined with some classmates for a roundtable discussion of the Sisterhood.
Basketball has entered regular season play among their division and defeated Fredericksburg Christian last night 58 to 42. The Scotties also defeated Christchurch School 40 to 26 earlier this week. Their season record is now even at 3 and 3, ranking #7 in Division three.
Next week students begin their fall finals examinations. Both English and Modern and Classical Languages will be sitting for exams in the morning and afternoon.
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Social media has provided a perfect false reality of what our future is supposed to look like.
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Now I know you are stressing over exams, just like me. But I had a conversation with a mentor and they gave me a really good piece of advice that I wanted to share with you: you can’t control the outcome, just the process. There is no way to determine the exact grade you will get on your exams, but you are in control of how you prepare yourself and how you study for it. Remember what you can control,
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Over the past couple of generations, there has been this obsessive need to get the newest materialistic item that’s caught the goldfish like the public's attention span. As tempting as it might be to wish for the newest items on the shelf, I challenge you to take the time to focus on the things that maybe can’t fit in a box.
Maybe I sound cliche, but it’s a classic saying for a reason. During this time of year, we lose sight of what is truly important. Instead of focusing on a materialistic wishlist, think if something that fits into the larger picture. What’s something that can last even after it's out of trend? Find something that’s timeless.
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Today’s topic is something that everyone has gone through, yet no one can master the feeling of accepting it. That is Failure. Nobody likes to fail. But it seems to be an inedible thing that we will have to experience now and in the future.
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This is an abbreviated episode of the Daily Thistle with this week’s updates.
Basketball will be at the Trinity Tournament today through Saturday. Students will be excused from class at 11:15 this morning.
The weekend includes some fun events. On Saturday the BSSAC trip to Tyson’s Corner will leave at 10:30 Saturday morning
Later that day the BSSAC Fork Union semi-formal dance will depart campus at 4:30
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This week St. Margaret's was on the road and found Mrs. Lucy Corwin in North Carolina. The sisterhood knows Lucy as the former Lucy Lane when she arrived at St. Margaret's in 1968 and graduated in 1972. She was one of Viola's girls when she recalled being called into Miss Woolfolk's office. We had the opportunity to hear the stories of a girl who was in the same shoes we are in years ago. This is Lucy Corwin . . .
After listening to that conversation with Ms. Lane about Miss Woofolk, it’s clear the impression she had on students and how her effect lasted them even after they graduated from the school. She made a long-lasting effect by keeping our school motto in her heart to the very last days of her life.
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This is Pearl Harbor Day!
Kendall speaks about pressure in Sisters' Pride
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This is an abbreviated episode of the Daily Thistle with this week’s updates.
Basketball will be at the Trinity Tournament from Friday through Saturday. Students will be excused from class at 11:15 on Friday morning.
Saturday:
BSSAC trip to Tyson’s Corner Saturday morning at 10:30.
BSSAC Fork Union semi-formal dance on Saturday 4:30
Faculty will be doing a door decorating contest. The theme is traditional/well-known Christmas movies such as Elf, The Bishop’s Wife, Charlie Brown Christnas, Frosty, and A Christnas Carol. The door must be done by next Monday, December 12. It will be judged by the students on Tuesday, December 13 and the winner will be announced on Wednesday at lunch. You may do it yourself or pair up in teams. It is optional, please let Ms. Plumb know if you would like to participate.
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Those were some sounds from last night’s Tappahannock Christmas Parade and Tree lighting. It included the St. Margaret’s Treble choir who led the community with some of the Christmas favorites.
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Today I wanted to talk about the importance of reading. It’s something that we tend to only associate with school. Whether it be reading a textbook or an article for an assignment, sometimes we forget the importance of reading just for fun, with no correlation to a grade with it.
With the SAT in all of our futures, reading can be a purposeful tool with things like reading comprehension and vocabulary. When you read, you are learning new words contextually, and subconsciously understanding the definition, instead of making flashcards and simply memorizing.
If we go into the science of it, reading strengthens the neurons in your brain contributing to a longer attention span, concentration, and can even help reduce stress levels. For some, reading can be a form of meditation.
Now you might be thinking, after a long day of intense study and concentration, the last thing I want to do is pick up a book and read. I completely understand that it’s easier to turn to Netflix and Tiktok as a way to relax and end the day. But I challenge you to find a book that has nothing to do with school. Something fun, maybe a murder mystery, or fantasy book. Find something that you can read purely for pleasure.
Below are some of my favorite book recommendations, so if you have the interest to start your reading, suggest starting with these modern-day classics.
- Where the Crawdad Sings- Delia Owens
- The Girl With The Louding Voice- Abi Dare
- Into The Wild- John Krauker
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Hey all, My name is Kendall Quinn, Creator of Sister’s Pride a podcast that is an extension of the daily thistle. We work to have conversations on anything from life at st. Margaret's daily challenges high schoolers manage. If you are interested in being in one of the Sister Pride episodes or have any questions you would want the podcast to address feel free to contact me at my school email and I would be happy to listen to feedback, questions, or comments.
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The last couple episodes I have talked about education and the process of learning as a student. One of the biggest challenges I think our generation faces when dealing with our academic success is placing a value on a grade. We tend to think that a letter not only determines our worth as a student but our intelligence level in all areas of our lives. I am guilty in falling into this mindset as well. I have found myself thinking that if I didn’t have an A on my assignment I wasn’t smart. Not only do we internally create this mindset, but society places the same expectation on our growth and progression as a student. Grades, do in fact hold a lot of weight in our society today, weather that be a gpa or in the college application process, it is important to show the effort you have put into your classes and the value you put into doing well for not only your teachers but yourself. It is important to remember something that we tend to forget l: I t’s even more important to truly understand the material. When you truly have a deep knowledge of what you are studying the grades follow. When we are stuck in this fixed mindset of the grade is the only thing that matters it changes from learning the material to memorizing the facts.
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It’s been a great thanksgiving break, and we're all back preparing for upcoming exams and tests. On a past Sisters’ pride episode, we talked about the nagging question that every high-schooler ponders about at some point in their academic career and that is: What makes a good student. We talked to some girl’s on campus and had great input from them. But as we continue this process of understanding how to thrive in an academic environment, I came to a conclusion that my education is a partnership. It is not solely in the hands of the student, as we work with teachers every day. So in today’s episode I wanted to ask the same question but in reference to teachers. What makes a good teacher?
Everyone has experienced a bad teacher and a good teacher. It takes one person to utilize a student’s interest and turn that into passions and a career path, as well as cultivating a love for school.
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It’s been a great thanksgiving break, and we're all back preparing for upcoming exams and tests. On a past Sisters’ pride episode, we talked about the nagging question that every high schooler ponders about at some point in their academic career and that is: What makes a good student. We talked to some girl’s on campus and had great input from them. But as we continue this process of understanding how to thrive in an academic environment, I came to a conclusion that my education is a partnership. It is not solely in the hands of the student, as we work with teachers every day. So in today’s episode I wanted to ask the same question but in reference to teachers. What makes a good teacher?
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This is an abbreviated edition of the Daily Thistle for Monday, November 28th, Two Thousand Twenty-Two.
We welcome the return of the students from their Thanksgiving Break. Over the break new digital signage was placed in St. Margaret’s Hall and the Dining Hall.
The new dock is being refitted with two new floating docks for easy access into the water for our kayaks and crew shells. The central dock also received the Christmas Tree that can be seen from the Queen Street Bridge.
On the River today the sun will rise at 7:02 this morning and set at 4:49. High tide will be at 4:33 this morning and low tide at 11:11. High tide will return at 5:06 later today. It will be mostly clear with a high of 57 degrees and a low of 43 degrees. Winds will be from the Northwest around 9 miles per hour. There is only a 5% chance of precipitation.
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Think of ways you can better improve your academic performance in the next part of the semester as well as reflect on the things you felt you did really well. Things like study habits or practice techniques are things that can constantly be revising and improving.
I hope you all have an amazing and. Look forward to seeing you all in. Couple days
In news from the BBC
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Wednesday was a day St. Margaret’s celebrated Tradition. Alumni visiting their past campus celebrated a woman they admired, Viola Woolfolk- their headmistress. As we walked around campus, commuting from class to class, we noticed women gathered in the same spots we gathered. Laughing,talking, and retelling stories- just like us. They had name tags on their shirts with the year they had graduated at St. Margaret’s. As a current student, somewhat new to the sisterhood, it was moving to see how many women showed up to support the place they had once called home.
In chapel services and announcements we hear the word sisterhood being used, but it was a moment like St. Margaret’s Day, which showed the power that word holds. Women from all different class years and from all different places in the world showed up to support the school they loved while attending, and still had a place in their heart 50 years later.
As the sounds of the bagpiper led us to the church, there was a moment of silence where the students of St. Margaret’s took in the scene before them. Generations of St. Margaret’s girls lined up on the property for a single purpose: Tradition. As we took the time to remember Viola Woolfolk and St. Margaret a feeling of pride set in among the scotties. Honoring those in our community who, as the Reverend mentioned in the Chapel Service, “Were agents of Change.”
IT was at moments like these where the sisterhood was strong as generation of St. Margaret’s girls gathered for our school and for the people in our community. It’s because of the traditions St. Margaret’s day prioritizes that days like Wednesday are so special. It is because of the support in tradition from alumni, faculty, and students that makes St. Margaret’s the school it is today.
Those were some reflections about Viola Woolfolk at last night’s celebration of Viola in our chapel. Following the gathering of alumnae they joined the sisterhood in the march over to St. John’s for our annual St. Margaret’s Day service.
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Never really fearful of death, Viola dreaded losing control and panicking. She longed for peaceful release. When asked about heaven, she told Tom, "I am not concerned about it. The thing that makes me believe in heaven and hell is there must be a place for my mother. If there is a heaven, she'll be there, and if there isn't, she won't know it."
Those last ten months of her life were busy. Not defensive or maudlin about having cancer, she went about preparing for the end so that others wouldn't have a mess to deal with when she was gone. Meticulously she cleaned out her house, categorized her personal papers, and disposed of all pictures. According to Bebe, during this period she bought a tombs tone, rewrote her will for the fourth time, and planned her memorial service with Don Raby Edwards, rector of St. Stephen's Church.
One day at the end of May, unable to live independently and carry on without being a burden to her friends, she left Tappahannock. Bebe came to take her to Richmond where she would spend the last weeks of her life. This trip was her last.
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This edition of the Sisters' Pride reflects on our noble Rappahannock River.
Daily Thistle for Tuesday, November 15th, Two Thousand Twenty-Two.On the River today the sun will rise at 6:48 a.m. and set at 4:56 p.m. It will be a waning gibbous moon with a 61% illumination. High tide will be at 6 a.m. and low tide at 12:26 p.m. High tide will return at 6:12 p.m. We will see rain after 1 p.m. It will be mostly cloudy with a high near 51 degrees. Winds will be from the Northeast at 3 to 8 mph. The chance of precipitation is 90%.
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Welcome to today’s sisters’ pride. On Thursday, at 7:45 AM, the entire student body and selected faculty piled into 8 buses, as we drove an hour to a local farmer’s turnip field. After putting on the necessary gloves and rolling up our shirts we got to work helping the farmers in a process called “gleaning.” I will be completely honest with you, this was the first time I have ever heard the word gleaning. For those of you, like me, who are new to this concept, here’s a quick dictionary definition: Gleaning is the act of collecting leftover crops from farmers' fields after they have been harvested.
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It’s Veterans Day.
Today I share a poem written by World War I Colonel John McCrae, a surgeon with Canada's First Brigade Artillery. It expressed McCrae's grief over the "row on row" of graves of soldiers who had died on Flanders' battlefields, located in a region of western Belgium and northern France. The poem presented a striking image of the bright red flowers blooming among the rows of white crosses and became a rallying cry to all who fought in the First World War. The first printed version of it reportedly was in December 1915, in the British magazine Punch.
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Kendall begins her podcast, Sisters' Pride on today's Daily Thistle!
Today I wanted to take the opportunity to talk about something that surrounds us everyday of our lives: community. What really is community? It seems to take on different meanings in our lives. It can be our friend group, our grade, our entire student body, and even our whole school faculty included. As a student at St. Margaret’s I hear this word being used in our honor code, chapel services, and in the classroom. By coming to St. Margaret;s I learned to truly appreciate the value of having a community-oriented school. Not only is community a priority, it is a necessity for students to thrive. Having a strong sense of community in our environment contributes to three areas of our lives: Our Academic lives, social lives, and emotional being.
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Welcome . . .
from the banks of the Rappahannock River, on the campus of Saint Margaret’s School in Tappahannock, Virginia.
Hey all, My name is Kendall Quinn, Creator of Sister’s Pride a podcast that is an extension of the daily thistle. We work to have conversations on anything from life at st. Margaret's daily challenges high schoolers manage. If you are interested in being in one of the Sister Pride episodes or have any questions you would want the podcast to address feel free to contact me at dailythistle@sms.org and I would be happy to listen to feedback, questions, or comments.
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Kendall Quinn makes her debut on The Daily Thistle to announce the addition of Sisters' Pride Podcast.
As we share the news of the day from St. Margaret’s, The Daily Thistle will be expanding its programming. In the coming days and weeks, we are reaching further into the alumnae as well as the student body.
As we share the news of the day from St. Margaret's School, The Daily Thistle is expanding its programming. In the coming days and weeks, we will reach further into the alumnae and the student body to enrich our daily program. In case you're counting, The Daily Thistle has produced over 210 episodes, and well over 5,000 hours have been played among our listeners.
Our expanded programming will begin to focus more on the experiences of our times - especially among the students of St. Margaret's School. So stay tuned for our new programming.
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It will be an unseasonably warm day today with a high of 79 degrees and a low of 58.
Last night, our faculty had their monthly in-the-round meeting on the new river classroom under a gorgeous moon.
Geometry is being tested today.
Happy Birthday to our Ms. Beverly who has been a fixture in our dining hall for over 34 years.
Yearbook staff will have a planning meeting in the office of the head of school.
We continue our tenth installment about Viola Woolfolk who served as Saint Margaret’s headmistress from 1950 to 1984.
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We continue our ninth installment about Viola Woolfolk who served as Saint Margaret’s headmistress from 1950 to 1984.
From the desk of Linda May Shields of the Class of 1963:
Young children really knew how to handle her even though she felt uncomfortable with them. Ellen Lewis Bane class of 1966 shares a story about the Ivy Club that gives us a glimpse into her gift of communicating with the very Young: '' Around 1959 when I was eleven years old, Jody Perkins (Lewis) class of 1966 Elizabeth Gawen (Johnson) class of 1966 and I had a club in the old ivy-covered tree next to the Brokenbrough House - the Ivy Club, of course. We got wind of a terrible rumor that the tree was going to be cut down because it was so rotten.
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There are no tests scheduled for today.
On the River today the sun will rise at 7:35 this morning and set at 6:06 tonight. High tide will be at 10:!9 and low tide at 5:09 this afternoon, high tide will return at 10:46 tonight.
It will be a waxing gibbous moon with a 79% illumination.
It will be partly sunny with a high near 69 degrees.
The faculty will be meeting today in the Woolfolk Center.
Today the Prefects will have their weekly meeting with the head of school.
As fall athletics comes to an end, students will soon be transitioning to winter sports.
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This is an abbreviated episode.
On the River today the sun will rise at 7:34 this morning and set at 6:07 tonight. High tide will be at 9:02 and low tide at 3:58 this afternoon, high tide will return at 9:38 tonight.
It will be a waxing gibbous moon with a 62% illumination.
Last night volleyball was defeated in the first round of state play. Although it was a disappointing outcome, it did not overshadow the grit and determination of the team’s season.
New to the campus are two tree swings on the river lawn. One swing is located near the graduation stage, and the other down on the river's edge.
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Today Volleyball travels to Richmond in the first round of the state playoffs. Fan Vans will join them with a 4:30 departure.
On the River today the will rise at 7:33 and set at 6:08. High tide will be at 7:46 this morning and low tide at 2:41. High tide returns at 8:25 tonight. It will be a first quarter moon with a 50% illumination.
American Studies is testing today.
In news
Officials in South Korea have now identified all 154 victims of this weekend's tragic crowd crush at a Halloween celebration. 55 men, 99 women were killed by the surging crowd in the narrow streets of Seoul's very popular nightlife district.
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On this Halloween we share that on the river today the sun will rise at 7:32 and set at 6:10 tonight. It will be a waxing crescent moon with a 40% illumination.
In weather it will be mostly cloudy with a high of 68 degrees with seind from the south from 3 to 7 miles per hour.
In news
The midterms are one week away. On November 8th, Americans will cast their votes for representatives in Congress and candidates for state and local offices. Theyre called midterm elections remember because they happen two years into a U.S. presidents four-year term. Every two years, all 435 seats in the House of Representatives is up for election, while about a third of the 100-seat Senate are up for grabs.
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AP Calculus is testing today, along with A.P. U.S. History and Ancient History.
Tonight volleyball plays their last home game before heading to the state playoffs next week.
Last night we caught up with some seniors before celebrating their senior night.
We asked some players about their thoughts about their feelings before the game.
So, what did you learn from this season . . .
Some underclassmen were in the stands and we asked what senior they were cheering for in particular.
We continue our eighth installment about Viola Woolfolk who served as Saint Margaret’s headmistress from 1950 to 1984.
From the desk of Linda May Shields of the Class of 1963:
This practical goal of keeping the school affordable was not always achievable. During the 1970's when church schools were struggling, she again demonstrated through her actions what it is like to be committed to accomplishing something. The board offered Viola another contract with a salary increase, nothing dramatic, just enough to keep up with inflation. When she received it, she refused to sign it. Not because she wanted more; she wanted less. She would continue at her previous salary.
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Varsity volleyball celebrates Senior Night as Trinity visits Saint Margaret’s later today.
On the river today the sun will rise at 7:28 and set at 6:14
It will be a waxing crescent moon with 5% illumination. Low tide will be at 9:51 this morning and high tide at 3:38 low tide will return at 10:42 tonight. It will be sunny with a high near 64. Winds will be from the north at 10 to 15 mph waves will be around a foot.
News in Tappahannock
As the days turn cooler and shorter, many Virginians are using firewood to keep warm and spend quality time with friends and family.
While seemingly harmless, moving firewood can enable the easy movement of destructive forest and agricultural pests. When firewood is moved from one area to another, the invasive emerald ash borer, spongy moth, Asian longhorned beetle, and spotted lanternfly often “hitchhike” to destroy crops, infect more trees and sometimes even entire forests.
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Geometry is testing today as is Algebra I.
There are no athletic competitions today.
In the news
Brittney Griner was again before a Russian court today and received no mercy. The court upholding Griner's nine year prison sentence, rejecting the NBA star's plea for leniency. She was convicted in August after Russian authorities say that they found vape canisters containing cannabis oil in her luggage at Moscow airport.
There was swift reaction from the White House after the appeal that didn't go anywhere, slamming the court proceeding as a quote, "sham," vowing the Biden administration is doing everything it can to bring her home.
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In national news yesterday it was reported that alarming new details about the devastating impact the Covid-19 pandemic has had on America's children. A newly released national education assessment reveals that fourth and eighth graders fell behind in reading and had the largest decline ever in math scores.
The math scores are historic, the worst decline ever recorded, with roughly 25 percent of fourth graders and 38 percent of eighth graders performing below the basic level. The lowest of the three achievement levels for the test.
Students who were already struggling in school showed the most dramatic drop off. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona calling the results appalling and unacceptable.
This was anticipated a year ago here at St. Margaret’s as the school moved to launch a S.T.R.E.A.M. program to get students in the field and return to hands-on learning. The school is also planning a summer program where students can fortify their math and science work to regain what was lost during the pandemic.
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Latin is testing today, and Spanish is completing class presentations.
Volleyball hosts Christchurch School today at 4:30.
In our nation’s news today
Just 15 days from now Americans will cast ballots in midterm elections that are becoming more about the economy with each passing day. House and Senate control are at stake as Americans deal with higher inflation and fears of a looming recession.
On the international front:
The inner workings of the Communist Chinese party are notoriously secretive and opaque. Rarely do we get a peek behind the veil. Today was one of those historic moments.
As expected, leader Xi Jinping was named to a third term as general secretary of the party, the highest and most powerful office. And it was the six men who walked in behind him, the loyalists of the loyal, whose very presence told the world everything it needed to know about who was in charge.
The global consequences could be serious. That's why governments everywhere, especially Taiwan and its allies, watched this carefully staged event with grave interest.
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As the School grew, the afternoon teas gave way to hockey practice; etiquette classes were replaced by computer lab, and lipstick was permitted. In response to the demands of the job, Viola relinquished some of the direct contact she had with the girls, which by her own admission
was the part of her job that was most satisfying. In a way, Viola had to relinquish some personal power, and that was tough. In an interview for the Washington Star in 1977, she described her influence in this way: "The girls didn't wear lipstick because I decided they shouldn't. They didn't
wear uniforms because I had to wear them as a child and I despised them. If I were 27 now I could never come into this School because the faculty, the board, the parents, the girls are not going to take that dictatorship. I hate to say dictatorship, but it practically was."
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From the desk of Linda May Shields of the Class of 1963:
The teacher graded my exam early and to my surprise and his, I tied Ellen Brooks, Class of 1964 for the highest grade in the class. I will never forget the look he gave me. His head was cocked to the side and his eyes glared at me, and he asked "what happened?" To satisfy himself, he graded it again. Nothing changed and then he accused me of receiving some help. Miss Woolfolk,
in ear shot of the last remark, came to my defense in a way no one ever has. Without becoming ruffled she reduced him to spaghetti.
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We continue our sixth installment about Viola Woolfolk who served as Saint Margaret’s headmistress from 1950 to 1984.
From the desk of Linda May Shields of the Class of 1963:
Perhaps it was this sense of discipline and control that made her a wizard in math. Often I think of her almost genius-like qualities when it comes to the numbers. Faster than an adding machine she could total figures, and word problems weren't even brain teasers. My nemesis at St.
Margaret's came in geometry class. From the beginning I knew I was in trouble when the teacher referenced theorems and I thought it was a foreign language. My ignorance only grew. In his thick accent he would go over several theorems in class, and I found myself trying to comprehend
but failing miserably. He had little patience with slow students and would start rubbing the back of his head when answers were not forthcoming. Birds also bothered him and often he would throw books in the direction of the windows in an attempt to silence their songs.
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From the desk of Linda May Shields of the Class of 1963:
She flopped on my bed and began talking about Viola's policy of taking new girls out for a cigarette their first week at School. She explained it was just Viola's way of getting to know them and making them feel at home. You see, some of them were terribly nervous and needed a cigarette to relax. So off I went to St. Margaret's Hall. There was Miss Woolfolk sitting at that large desk with the sun streaming in behind her. I waltzed in and announced I was ready for my cigarette ride. She asked me to come in and have a seat on that sofa with which I would become quite familiar as time went on. I repeated my request. She asked who told me of the cigarette
policy; I told her. She never flinched. She told me to go back to my room and wait for her. As soon as she finished her work she would call and we could take our ride.
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Today’s abbreviated version of the Daily Thistle marks a Head’s Day Off of school following our Fall Family Weekend.
Our international students spent the night in Washington D.C. as they tour our nation’s capital.
On the River today the sun will rise at 7:18 and set at 6:27 tonight. High tide at 7:35 this morning and a low tide at 2:07 in the afternoon. We will see a high tide returning at 7:54 tonight. It will be a last quarter moon tonight with an illumination of 50%. Today we expect a slight chance of rain before 2 p.m. Later, we will have a light chance of showers and thunderstorms. It will be partly sunny with a high near 69 degrees with the winds from the southwest around 10 mph.
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From the desk of Linda May Shields of the Class of 1963:
A story shared by Laura Taylor '58 demonstrates Viola's curious combination of toughness and motherly tenderness when tending to the needs of her flock.
"Somewhere between 1955 and 1958 I was a victim of a near school-wide epidemic of flu. I remember languishing near a hall door of the infirmary and inadvertently witnessing a behind the scenes mini-drama. There was the elderly little resident nurse, about to fall apart at the very prospect of one more adolescent patient dragging into her normally peaceful haven. ' I can't
stand it any more, I just can't go on,' she whimpered.
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Yesterday, the New River classroom received its new windscreens. Three catfish were pulled from the Rappahannock River and are now in two of the 55 gallon tanks. Today, the biology class will visit the river classroom to study osmosis with the catfish. The new wind turbine was installed and is generating electricity to the river classroom’s batteries. The solar panels will be installed to also supplement our electrical power.
Yesterday our Sophomores sat for the PSAT test, as did so many across the Nation.
Last night, Mrs. Bell traveled with the Prefects to Norfolk Virginia to visit alumni for lunch and dinner and drop in on the Williams School and Norfolk Academy. Next week the Prefects will travel with Mr. Bell to Lexington, Kentucky to speak with alumni and prospective students.
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From the desk of Linda May Shields of the Class of 1963:
The School Viola found in 1950 was quite different from the one she left 34 years later. In 1950 etiquette classes were held weekly, along with faculty teas every afternoon. Teachers lived in dormitories and were expected to attend meals. Hats and gloves were worn to required church services, and sit-down dinners preceded mandatory evening chapel services. Lipstick and uniforms were forbidden. In an interview conducted in 1977 she expounded on the subject, "The girls didn't wear lipstick because I decided they sho
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It’s a big testing day as we come to the close of the first quarter. Testing today is American Studies, Introduction to Literature, World Literature, Geometry, and River Studies.
Christopher Newport University will be on campus today.
Volleyball will travel to The Miller School today.
The wind turbine was installed on the River Classroom and will be operational later today. Next comes the solar panels.
On the River today the sun will rise at 7:12 a.m. and set at 6:35 p.m.. Low tide will be at 9:45 a.m. and high tide at 3:31 p.m. Low tide will return at 10:33 p.m. It will be a waning gibbous moon with a 97% illumination
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On this Columbus Day, we host an admissions open house from 8:00 am to noon. Visitors will attend classes and forums.
We continue our third segment about Viola Woolfolk who served as Saint Margaret’s headmistress from 1950 to 1984.
From the desk of Linda May Shields of the Class of 1963:
This merging of school and home coupled with a sense of community so prevalent in small girls' schools fired Viola's ambition to become a school head. Mrs. Brackett was her role model. Viola adored her and when asked as a child about her life's ambitions Viola responded, "I'm never going to get married, I'm going to be a headmistress like Mrs. Brackett."
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We knew her as Ms. Judy; we knew her as a joyous and inviting mother figure at every Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. On October 4th at noon, Ms. Judy died among her loving family near where she was born. She left the world as she lived it, always among those who loved her.
As we have been celebrating the life of Viola Woolfolk, the loss of Judy reminds us of the remarkable human beings who followed Miss Woolfolk - and Ms. Judy was one of the brightest stars in our sisterhood.
In honoring Ms. Judy, we wanted to share a conversation we had with her about this time last year as she was preparing to leave campus for the last time as the Director of our Dining Hall services.
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The old tree that fell on the river lawn has already had visitors from the science classes who will be saving huge chunks of the tree for study. One plan is to take the largest portion of the tree and make a dugout canoe with the expertise of the local Rappahannock tribe. Students will be studying the age and health of the tree from their chemistry and biology classes.
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From the desk of Linda May Shields of the Class of 1963:
In a tangential way I kept up with Viola's battle. Inquiries resulted in disturbing reports. The person relating her progress usually had a pained look and somehow the voice and facial expressions betrayed any attempts at optimism. First, swallowing was a problem. Then it was her strength. Talking for any length of time was difficult. And, finally, her body racked with disease and weary from all attempts at making it whole, she asked not to see anyone.
Hearing about her death was like hearing about John Kennedy's. I remember vividly where I was and what I was doing. The passing of great people seems to have the effect of galvanizing time and place so that we remember down to the songs on the radio all the details of the moment and our reactions to the loss. Carefully, I put my memories of her away in a special file drawer of my mind. Her life and suffering joined others I have known who have tested my faith and pointed up my limited understanding of what life was about.
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Tomorrow we will continue the story of Viola Woolfolk as part of a series we will be doing on Monday, Wednesdays, and Friday.
Today we share some of the sounds from yesterday’s morning Chapel.
On the River today the sun will rise at 7:06 am and set at 6:46 pm. Low tide will be at 4:02 a.m. and high tide at 9:05 a.m. Low tide returns at 3:59 pm. followed by a high tide at 9:51 p.m..
It will be a waxing gibbous moon with 65% illumination.
Rain will be likely with a high near 52 degrees - there is a 70% chance of rain. Winds will be 20 to 25 knots with the gusts as much as 35 knots. We can expect to see waves between 2 and 3 ft. Visibility will be 1- 3 nautical miles.
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To every man there openeth
A Way, and Ways, and a Way,
The High Soul climbs the High Way,
the Low Soul gropes the Low,
And in between, on the Misty Flats,
The rest drift to and fro
But to every man there openeth
A High Way and a Low
And every man decideth
The way his soul shall go.
That was a favorite poem of Miss Woolfolk by John Oxenham and was often shared with girls in the days of Viola Woolfolk. She served as perennial Headmistress of St. Margaret’s School from 1950 to 1984 - and this month we will be remembering her on The Daily Thistle. This is part of St. Margaret’s honoring Miss Woolfolk's 100th birthday. Born in August 1922, the school decided to celebrate Miss Woolfolk this fall that will culminate on St. Margaret’s Day, Wednesday, November 16.
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There is a small craft advisory in effect until this afternoon. Gail warning effect this afternoon until late tonight. We are expecting to see waves at 3 feet.
American Literature is testing today as well as Ancient and Medieval History.
In Essex County there has been an increase in Covid cases. Because of this we are only allowing Walmart pickups - so please complete your online orders for tonight’s pickup.
The Prefects addressed the Board of Governors with the head of school about the school year, as our new student leadership assumes more responsibilities in maintaining “a good and gracious community.”
The campus is preparing for the effects of Hurricane Ian as it is predicted to move into South Carolina, North Carolina and western Virginia. Be sure to check our live river webcam on our website for conditions on the river.
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I am Lucretia Hart Clay.
And this is the Daily Thistle for Thursday, September 29th, Two Thousand Twenty-Two
On the River today the sun will rise at 7:01 a.m. and set at 6:53 p.m. high tide will appear at 4:19 a.m. and low tide will follow at 10:56 a.m. high tide will return at 4:45 p.m. it will be a waxing crescent moon with a 13% illumination In weather today it will be partly sunny with a high near 70 degrees winds will be from the north at 10 to 14 mph waves will be at 2 to 3 feet.
Today, St. Margaret’s Board of Governors members will be on campus for two days of meetings.
We caught up with the prefects yesterday on the river at 6:00 am as they were about to put the 65ft 8-person shell into the chilly water - so what were their thoughts as they looked over the river?
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Last night volleyball traveled to St. Anne’s Belfield and both teams came up short being defeated in straight sets.
Tennis also visited collegiate and the number 1 and 2 seats overcame the heat and won their singles matches. Even though Collegiate was victorious the scotties had a strong match.
Last night found Parents joining a Zoom with the Parents’ Advisory Council to learn more about the schools new Student information System. Parents were reminded that we only send out our email newsletter, Cross Currents every two weeks. Parents will find the new Parent Portal more dynamic is up-to-the-minute information of campus life.
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Latin I is testing today.
AP Calculus is testing tomorrow.
Last night both the girls JV and Varsity teams fell to St. Gertrude’s 0-3.
On the river today low tide will be at 9:42 am and high tide at 3:33 pm, low tide returns at 10:15 pm. The sun will rise at 7:00 AM and set at 6:57 pm. It will be a waxing crescent moon with only a 2% illumination. The high will be 73 with sunny skies and winds between 3-10 mph. Waves will be 1ft.
Yesterday we enjoyed a singing Chapel, here are some sounds of the service.
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That sound clip was from Dr. Ni playing his harmonica at dinner last night as the weekend came to a close. He also played it on a pontoon cruise to Fones Cliffs which is a stunning 4-mile stretch of white-colored cliffs rising more than 100 feet above the Rappahannock River. This nearly pristine and majestic site is the ancestral home of the Rappahannock Tribe and is only 11 miles up river.
And the weekend was filled with a variety of activities as students traveled to Richmond to roller skate and head to the University of Virginia to see a women’s volleyball game. One student was bold enough to go tubing with Ms. Krupa and then work with her on getting water samples for chemistry class.
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On the River today low tide will be at 7:27 a.m. and high tide at 12:55 p.m. low tide will return at 7:30 p.m. the sun will rise at 6:56 a.m. and set at 7:03 p.m. it will be a waning crescent moon with only a 7% illumination. Today there will be a gale warning in effect through the morning as well as a small craft advisory it will go into this evening. The high will be 67 degrees with mostly clear skies but there will be a great deal of wind today.
Two days a week, 10 girls join our coach from William and Mary to learn how to row a 65 ft crew shell. The club will soon become a team as the shells will be moved to our new floating dock in the coming week. From the dawn skies of the Rapphannock, we share some of the sounds from the river's edge
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Last night the Bells were in Raleigh North Carolina with several alumnae and spoke with Lindsey Beasley from the class of 2009. As she spoke, it was clear that Rev. Candine Johnson took a prominent role in her life at St. Margaret’s and beyond. Here is Lindsey Beasley from Raleigh, North Carolina last night….
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Last night as our Alumnae Council gathered over Zoom, Mrs. Bell a couple of alums about their time at SMS. From Mrs. Bell and a few of our SMS alumnae….
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Yesterday, the Religion Class took time from their discussions to watch the historic funeral of Queen Elizabeth II. For the first time in the history of St. Margaret’s the Union Jack was flown at half-staff in front of the school and on the B-House. For posterity, we thought we would mark this edition of the Daily Thistle with the sounds from London.
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Today girls were tubing with the Sea-Pro ski boat. Intense competition began when girls began to time how long they could stay on the tube. The winning time was only 12 seconds. Other girls then drove one of the pontoon boats up the river for an excursion to another student's home.
Check out our Facebook page to see one of our religion class was taking advantage of the Rappahannock River while reading Exodus and the story of Moses.
Today England buries Queen Elizabeth as St. Margaret’s will fly the Union Jack in honor of what is known as the Second Elizabethan Age. As three quarter of million people lined to view the vigil in Westminster Hall, it was in the eyes of many, the end of COVID as people were pressed by one another for over 14 hours to honor the Queen of our lives. She will be the last in life time - we will not see another.
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Last night Virginia joined with some friends to talk about some changes at St. Margaret’s, particularly the classrooms. In the humanity classrooms the individual desks were removed and replaced with discussion tables~~.~~ - it’s made a difference in our learning.
That difference is profound in the wake of COVID where student socialization was significantly inhibited. But the tables bring us all together to learn in an atmosphere of mutual respect.
As we are coming to learn, “honor the table” and come prepared to discuss in class.
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I am Jesse Tucker . . .
And this is the Daily Thistle for Thursday, September 15th, Two Thousand Twenty-Two
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I am Cailes Garcia, sitting in for Virginia Ferguson . . .
And this is the Daily Thistle for Tuesday, September 13th, Two Thousand Twenty-Two
From the road we received a report from Virginia Ferguson who traveled to Charlottseville, Virginia to open the tennis season against St. Anne’s Belfield.
From her travels on I-64 as she headed back to campus here is Virginia in her talks with 9th grader Alyssa and 11th grader Silvy
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This signals that our Monday and Friday Chapels are back in swing as we follow the Book of Common Prayer’s Morning Prayer. This year, the Head Prefect and Master Prefect are leading our services with Dr. Johnson.
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If you look at yesterday's New York Times front page, you will not see any mention of the events of September 11th. If you watched CBS’s Sunday Morning with Jane Pawley - no mention.
But for The Daily Thistle, we commemorate the 21st anniversary of 9/11 on this September 12th episode.
"Yesterday at Memorial Plaza in New York City, mourners gathered at Ground Zero in Manhattan on Sunday to mark the 21st anniversary of the 9/11 terror attacks that killed thousands of Americans in New York, Washington, DC, and Pennsylvania."
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It is an end . . . it is the end of an era that no English Sovereign,
nor her subjects,
nor those outside the United Kingdom will ever see again - at least not in our or our children’s lives. She ruled the throne of England for 70 years - longer than any other English sovereign.
She was stoic, humble, and dutiful. As the English Empire dissolved following World War II, the Elizabethan Age managed to see the island nation face new uncertainties with dignity and courage - and it was largely due to a woman who stood 5’ 4” tall, and whose resolve was unshakable and remarkable.
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I spoke to a new student about her experiences at St. Margaret's. Ask any student, and market runs are part of the happiness here. As many boarding schools are more isolated in the woodlands, St. Margaret's is located in our town of Tappahannock. Today's Thistle is a little eclectic with part of a conversation between Ken Myers and Zena Hitz, who authored a book about intellectual life. Sure, it's a departure from Walmart, but it's part of what St. Margaret's seeks is teaching the whole student and instilling a genuine love of learning. Our new Dean of Faculty, Mr. Foulk met with the humanities department yesterday and spoke of purposeful learning. That conversation was similar to this excerpt from Ken Myers and Zena Kitz .
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Virginia shares a talk with new parents who were in the B-House for a reception for day student parents.
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The Daily Thistle Returns!
Students begin Season #2 in the nation's only daily independent school newscast. If you're an Alexa user, "Alexa, play The Daily Thistle on Apple Podcast." Have an iPhone? "Siri, play The Daily Thistle on Apple Podcast."
Virginia welcomes us back to the school year as classes go into full swing today!
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Graduation Countdown is 8 days.
Last night the Essex County Wetlands board approved the construction of our new dock. This was the last governmental requirement we needed, and construction will begin in July.
Tonight the Juniors and seniors will celebrate their annual junior senior dinner in the dining hall. The theme of the dinner is “Oh, the places you’ll go.”
Today marks the last installment of The Daily Thistle. The Daily Thistle has produced over 150 podcasts that we began last August in what was our inaugural year.
Next Saturday, I will graduate from St. Margaret’s and new voices will be heard from the Weekly and Daily Thistles. But before I leave our River Community I will introduce our Summer’s Weekly Thistle in my last cast. The Weekly Thistle will include updates on the summer camps and projects.
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Graduation Countdown is 9 days.
On the River today the sun will rise at 5:50 a.m. and set at 8:20 p.m. it will be a waning crescent moon. low tide will be at 6:20 a.m. with high tide at 11:45 a.m. low tide will return at 6:20 p.m.
Eastern wind's remove across the campus at 5 to 10 knots with waves less than 1 ft with a light chop. We will see all these guys with a slight chance of rain and a high of 77 degrees
We share some sounds from today’s Sisterhood where the statistics class hosted Carnival Complete with tickets and challenging games. it was complete with cool prizes and some awesome homemade baked goods, candy chips, stuffed animals and even more.
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The graduation Countdown is 10 days.
On the River today the sun will rise at 5:50 a.m. and set at 8:19 p.m. it will be a waning crescent moon with a 21% illumination
High tide will be at 10:52 a.m. and low tide at 5:33 pm. High tide will return at 11:19 p.m.
Last night we gathered in the CT Center to celebrate our spring athletic teams. Here are some highlights from the evening. . .
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Graduation Countdown is 11 days.
Tonight we celebrate our spring teams at the athletic banquet in the dining room. Softball and Track will be honored.
On the River today the sun will rise at 5:51 a.m. and set at 8:18 p.m. it will be a waning gibbous moon with a 32% illumination
High tide will be at 9:54 a.m. and low tide at 4:42 pm. High tide will return at 10:25 p.m.
Winds will be coming from the east at 10-15 knots, increasing to 20 knots. Waves 1-2 feet. There is a 100% chance of rain totalling an inch, we should expect heavy rains
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Today we celebrated Charms Chapel as alumna Gabrielle Van Kammaen returned to present the St. Margaret’s Charms to the Class of 2022. It is a long standing rite of passage for St. Margaret’s seniors to receive their charms from the alumnae.
We share some sounds from this mornings service . . .
This is the last week of classes at St. Margaret’s. Next week we will begin finals.
In Friday’s State Track Meet Mide captured first place in both the Discus and the Shot Put. Capturing two state titles is quite an achievement, and for the first time in St. Margaret’s history. Layke placed 3rd in the shot put.
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Graduation Countdown is 15 days.
Last night our Softball team lost in the State semi-finals in an 11-inning slugfest falling 4-7. The Scotties were down 4-1 in the 7th inning when Jaydn hit a massive hit to the outfield driving in three runs. Injuries and exhaustion took a toll, but the Scotties certainly played their hearts out. Congratulations on a great season!
Today our track team will be in Richmond for the State Track Meet. We will try to provide some live streaming if we can, but all eyes are on Mide who is defending her state title in shot put. Good luck Scotties!
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The graduation Countdown is 16 days.
Those were the sounds from the Seniors who are part of our music Ensemble. It was a great event that brought Gianna, Helen, and Jenny to the stage for the last time.
Autumn reports on the softball team's prep for the State semi-finals.
On the River today the sun will rise at 5:54 a.m. and set at 8:14 p.m. it will be a waning gibbous moon with a 88% illumination
High tide will be at 4:49 a.m. and low tide at 11:56 a.m. . high tide will return at 5:14 p.m., and low tide at 11:56 p.m.
Winds will be coming from the southwest at 15 knots and shift from the West in the afternoon. We should expect to see waves between 1 and 2 ft. It will be partly cloudy and there might be a stray shower or thunderstorm the high will be 88
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Autumn reports on the softball team's win in the state play-offs.
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Graduation Countdown is 18 days.
Today softball will begin the Virginia Independent School Athletic Association Division 2 State softball tournament. The quarter finals will be held here at St Margaret’s today at 5:00 pm. The Scotties will take on number 7 Peninsula Catholic High School. St. Margaret's goes into the tournament ranked second. Admission to the game is $5.
Next Tuesday St Margarets will host its spring Sports banquet in the dining hall. Parents are welcome to attend.
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Graduation Countdown is 19 days.
Last Thursday, the track team competed in the League of Independent School's annual conference championships at Woodberry Forest. St. Margaret's remains the only all-girls boarding and day school competing in Virginia's austere prep league of independent schools.
Midi placed first in the shot put with a 39-foot throw
Layke placed fourth with a 27-foot throw in what she called an off day. As she added, "it's gotten me ready for States on Friday."
Ninth-grader Adanna placed 10th with a 25 ft throw, but her best is 30 feet, and she, too, looks to improve at states.
Azaliah was right behind her in 11th place.
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Report on the LIS Championship Game:
Our team got the early lead one zero in the very first inning. It was a thriller game with the Scotties and then tight Titans battling each inning. The game lasted all the way until the ninth inning when Gracie Byrd hit a home run over the right-field fence to seal the deal. For the walk-off win for the Scotties, we won the LIS championship. What a game. And those were the sounds of Gracy's home run in the team celebration that home plate. We caught up with Gracie and asked her about her last bet. in extra innings. The tension was high for the fans. Can you describe from your vantage point as a player? Talk about the Trinity Episcopal team? How does this championship get you ready for the state playoffs next week? So our shortstop Jaden was injured and when she was injured. Can you speak about that? And finally, we spoke briefly with Jaden who hit a home run in the first inning and made a clutch double-play to close the top of the knife. Jaden Can you describe the game? Can you describe what happened to you out there and how you got injured? Now at the moment when your teeth were flying out of your mouth, did you think you were out of the game? So as Jaden heads off to the dentist, the team will begin to prepare for the state playoffs next Tuesday. On Saturday night This video will premiere the LIS championship game on its Youtube channel. We will share links on all our social media accounts. Again, congrats to both the Scotties and the Trinity team for an exciting and well-played game.
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Graduation Countdown is 23 days.
Today the softball team plays for the conference Championship for the Virginia League of Independent Schools. Trinity Episcopal will travel to Tappahannock for a 5 pm start. The two teams split their regular-season games as excitement builds for the championship.
We finish with Ms. Harvey’s Digital Media class who found the girls taking photos/video and creating an original soundtrack and movie representing SMS, the river, or combination of both.
Today we share Faith’s work
“The Sounds of SMS” was inspired to try and capture the river and its different aspects and emotions. How the waves would crash on a windy day and how it feels when the sun starts to show and the waves relax. To make this project I started by making a story. A beautiful day turns into a dark and stormy night followed by more cloudiness and waves crashing. The next day all is well and the sun is out shining and people are talking and the view of the river is beautiful.
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Those were some sounds of the game from the dugout to home plate and the game’s end.
On the River today Sunrise will be at 6:01 a.m. and the sun will set at 8:07 p.m. it will be a waxing gibbous moon with a 74% illumination.
High tide will be at 10:22 a.m. and low tide at 5:18 p.m. high tide will reappear at 10:53 p.m.
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As COVID derailed the Class of 2020 from missing their high school graduation, along with the Class of 2021 masked and distancing last year, the Class of 2022 is lucky to see things returning to normal.
Part of the return to normalcy was in our Monday Chapel yesterday. Reverend Johnson announced a singing Chapel that had been suspended for over two years. So, today, we share some sounds of the sisterhood from St. Margaret’s School!
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The miserable cold and rainy weekend weather will give way to partly cloudy skies today. We will see Northern Winds at 15 To 20 Kt With Gusts To 25 Kt. Waves Around 2 Ft. The high will be 63. The week will see temperatures improving, but scattered rains might return over the weekend.
Today Physical Science and Latin will be testing.
We continue with Ms Harvey’s Digital Media class who found the girls taking photos/video and to create an original soundtrack and movie representing SMS, the river or combination of both.
Today we share Jenna’s work
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Graduation Countdown is 29 days.
Yesterday both the Softball and Track teams celebrated Senior Night before the softball game. We share some of the celebration from the evening’s festivities.
We begin with the Track team and the underclassmen speaking of their seniors.
Next, the softball team took the field to hear from their underclassmen.
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Softball defeats St. Gertrude's 9-0.
Today both the Softball and Track teams will celebrate their seniors. We will live stream the events beginning at 4:30 on our YouTube channel. Links will be sent from our Facebook and Twitter feeds.
We continue with Ms. Harvey’s Digital Media class which found the girls taking photos/video and creating an original soundtrack and movie representing SMS, the river, or a combination of both.
Today we share Gianna’s work
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We continue with Ms. Harvey’s Digital Media class which found the girls taking photos/video and creating an original soundtrack and movie representing SMS, the river, or a combination of both. They used a Digital Audio Workstation to create their original music and then created their video to represent their thoughts and the story of their music. It is a lot to be able to create the music and the video and they rose to the challenge. Each project included a paper that describes their thoughts and some of their process.
Today we share Jenny’s work...
On the River is the movie I made for the Sounds of the River Project. There are many sounds that we can find from the river and near the river, and they can be combined together to be a beautiful song. The song contains an intro, verse one, verse two, chorus, and an outro. The intro I used is similar to the outro with the same beat and chorus that represents a windy day while the verses and the chorus are not like an allegro that represents a peaceful day. I used an eagle’s sound to correspond with the eagle’s nest, and I used a stone dropping into the water to correspond with the video of the actual water droplets dropping into the water. The audio of the movie represents how the river is like a windy and sunny day versus a calm day.
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Softball defeats Northumberland 12-0.
The construction of the solar-powered boat is coming to completion as the electronics and batteries are being installed. Taylor and Gracie will be launching the boat this week for an inaugural trip up to the athletic fields on Hoskins Creek. This was part of their independent study coursework in A River Runs Through It. Gracie and Taylor will be joining me for a conversation about their work in a couple of weeks.
On the River today Sunrise will be at 6:09 a.m. and the sun will set at 8:00 p.m. it will be a waxing crescent moon with a 4% illumination.
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Those were the sounds of last night’s Compline
Today we returned to the St. Margaret’s Chapel for our morning school chapel services. St. John’s Episcopal Church was gracious to share its spacious pews as we moved through COVID earlier this year. We will return to St. John’s on occasions in the future, as it remains a space that we have come to know so well. Special thanks to the vestry and the St. John’s congregation for sharing the church with St. Margaret’s.
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Softball defeats South Hampton Academy, 4-1.
For this Friday we offer something a little different.
Ms Harvey’s Digital Media class found the girls taking photos/video and to create an original soundtrack and movie representing SMS, the river or combination of both. They used a Digital Audio Workstation (Ableton Live or Band Lab) to create their original music and then created their video to represent their thoughts and story of their music. It is a lot to be able to create the music and the video and they rose to the challenge. Each project has a paper that describes their thoughts and some of their process.
I want to share Faith’s work with her thoughts as her project plays in the background…
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We continue our Senior Speaker series with yours truly speaking about the mental and physical benefits of exercise.
In news from the BBC.
Remember, you’re listening to the nation’s only independent school news feed from the banks of the Rappahannock River, here, from the campus St. Margaret’s School in Tappahannock, Virginia.
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Softball reports on their 1-0 win over Trinity Episcopal School.
We continue our Senior Speaker series with Krista speaking about the overpopulation of companion animals.
On the River today Sunrise will be at 6:16 a.m. and the sun will set at 7:55 p.m. it will be a waning crescent moon with an illumination of 12%. Low tide will be at 6:39 a.m. and high tide at 12:14 p.m. low tide will reappear at 6:55 p.m. Winds will be from the Northwest today at 15 to 20 knots with Gusts as much as 25 knots. waves will be around two feet. It will be mostly sunny with a high near 57 degrees tonight. It will become partly cloudy with a low of 35 degrees
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We continue our Senior Speaker series with Midi speaking about the dilemma with technology today.
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Those were the sounds from Friday evening’s Lantern Ceremony. It is the passing of the lights of St. Margaret’s from the Senior to Junior class as they prepare to lead the school. It also included the presentation of the Class Ring, as it was first struck in the 1940s.
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Today we share another of our Senior Speaking series. Today Jenny speaks about bias in life…
Last night St. Margaret’s Hosted The Essex Museum in our historic Brockenbrough House. St Margarets is building a partnership with the museum as one of our students is participating in an independent study program working as an intern for the museum. We will soon have an opportunity to share her experiences firsthand.
Tonight the students will be celebrating the lantern ceremony under the tent on the river lawn. This will mark the beginning of our spring parents weekend culminating in our May Ball on Saturday Night.
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We share a senior speech from Eunice on the advantages of owning a pet!
On the River today the sun will rise at 6:24 a.m. and set at 7:49 p.m.. low tide will appear at 12:06 a.m. and high tide at 5:55 a.m. Another low tide will return at 1:03 p.m. and the day will finish with a high tide at 6:20 p.m.
Winds will emerge from the south at 5 to 10 knots you should expect that waves will be less than 1 ft with a light chop.
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Yesterday Mr. Bell took a group of students to support our track team at West Point High School. Upon their return to school, and missing dinner, Mrs. Bell provided Pizza in the B house. We spoke with the fans over the pizza about the day and began with a question who did you watch?
Today, the school welcomed Mr. Sneed who will be the new athletic director at St Margaret’s. Mr. Snead is spending a couple of days on campus observing the track and softball teams. He is eager to begin building a new athletic program St. Margaret’s expands its offerings.
Today our softball team will be hosting their first home game against St. Catharines. We will report on the outcome in tomorrow's Daily Thistle.
Tonight there is a large gathering of alumnae and friends in Richmond at the Country Club of Virginia. Mr. Bell will be speaking about the launching of our STREAM program. Plans for next year will include Incorporating the Rappahannock River across all the disciplines of a college-prep curriculum.
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On the River today the sun will rise at 6:26 a.m. and set at 7:47 p.m..High tide will be at 4:09 a.m. and low tide at 11:15 a.m. high tide will return at 4:33 p.m. and low tide at 11:14 p.m. It will be a waxing gibbous moon with a 90% illumination
We share "Jesus Christ Is Risen Today" as we return from Easter Break.
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The Passion, Good Friday, April 15, 2022
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Today we share another in a series of Senior Speeches from the Class of 2022. Today Helen speaks of the demise of the Nursery Rhymes.
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Arriving on campus yesterday were a pontoon boat and another pontoon swimming platform. As Spring arrives, Mr. Bell is loading up the shoreline with everything from Jet Skis to Solar-powered boats that some of his students are building.
We join Izzy for a walk around yesterday’s track meeting over at Northumberland High School. Here’s Izzy and some team members.
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Yesterday, the St. Margaret’s Board of Governors held their spring meeting here on campus.
The meeting included reports on the coming STREAM program and plans for expanding our river studies across all realms of school life.
Another element was celebrating the retirement of Dr. David Charlton, President of the Church School of Virginia.
Dr. Charlton served as President of Church Schools for over 30 years; he was the Headmaster of Christchurch School and Vice-President of Finance and Administration at Virginia Theological Seminary.
Dr. Charlton reminded his friends at St. Margaret's that when he started in 1988, the fax machine and cell phones were non-existence.
Dr. Charlton has been honored in recent years for his distinguished career in education with the degree, of Doctor of Humane Letters from the University of the South in 2013 and with the John Verdery Award by the National Association for Episcopal Schools for outstanding service to Episcopal Schools and the National Association of Episcopal Schools.
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Softball reports on their win in D.C. against Georgetown Prep.
On the River today the sun rises at 6:38 a.m,. And sets at 7:40 pm. It will be a waxing crescent Moon with 73% illumination
High tide will be at 9:16 am. Low tide is 4:28 pm and high tide returns at 9:44 pm. Winds will be from the southeast at 5-10 knots, Increasing To 10 To 15 Kt With Gusts To 20 Kt In The Afternoon. Waves Less Than 1 Foot And Light Chop, Increasing To 1 To 2 Ft In The Afternoon.
It will be generally sunny despite a few afternoon clouds. High 69F.
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The Daily Thistle returns after a hectic Wednesday at St. Margaret’s. We are sorry for not posting a Daily Thistle yesterday…
On Wednesday, April 6th, a bomb threat was called into St. Margaret's School. All students, faculty, and staff were immediately evacuated and moved to nearby St. John's Episcopal Church. Ms. Tucker and Mrs. Bell brought ice cream to cool our nerves, and a few hours later the “all clear” was announced. We have no information on who made the call, but law enforcement is investigating the incident.
The track team made their way to Richmond to participate in their first track meet.
Softball player four innings before the game was canceled. SMS 1-0
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This is an abbreviated version of The Daily Thistle.
Those were some sounds from yesterday’s Track Meet in Richmond, We report on the results in tomorrow’s Daily Thistle
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Graduation Countdown is 58 days, a correction from yesterday!
Today track will travel to Richmond for their first meet at St. Christopher’s.
Last night some students served on an Alumnae phone bank, and we share some of their experiences from St. Margaret’s Hall
On the River today the sun rises at 6:45 a.m,. And sets at 7:35 pm. It will be a waxing crescent Moon with 10% illumination
High tide will be at 5:41 am. Low tide is 12:49 pm and high tide returns at 6:04 pm.
Winds from the west at 10 Knots, Waves Less Than 1 Foot, And Light Chop. A Chance Of Showers In The Morning.
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That was the CBS News report on the death of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on the evening of April 4th, 1968.
Today’s music is by Ben Branch & The Operation Breadbasket Orchestra & Choir. Dr. King’s last words before he was shot were spoken to Ben Branch, a musician who was to lead the music that night at a fundraiser. They would sing a special song since it was his favorite and Dr. King said, "Ben, play "Precious Lord" in the meeting tonight. Play it real pretty."
In today's Daily Thistle, we share Rev. Johnson's sermon from yesterday's Morning Chapel in honor of Dr. King.
Here is Reverend Johnson from St. John's Church in Tappahannock, Virginia.
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Graduation Countdown is 61 days
Report on the weekend's Softball Tournament and Championship game!
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Graduation Countdown is 64 days
On the River today the sun rises at 6:53 a.m,. And sets at 7:31 pm. It will be a New Moon, Only 0.4% of the moon will be visible.
Low tide will be at 9:22 am. High tide is 2:52 pm and low tide returns at 9:30 pm.
Winds will blow in from the west at 15 To 20 Kt With Gusts To 25 Kt. Waves Around 2 Ft.
In the weather today will be partly cloudy. High 61F.
Today we share Layke Jones delivering her Senior Speech from the Chapel at St. Margaret’s School.
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There will be lots of wind on the river today with Southern Winds from 15 To 20 Knots With Gusts To 30 Knots. Waves Around 2 Ft. A Chance Of Showers In The Morning, Then Showers Likely In The Afternoon.
In weather today we will see Cloudy skies during the morning hours followed by thunderstorms in the afternoon. Potential for severe thunderstorms. High 72F. Chance of rain 70%.
The Bells will be hosting the seniors for pizza and ribbon signing in the B-House during lunch today.
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Yesterday the softball team traveled to Collegiate in Richmond to open the season. Mrs. Bell caught up with Oceana Diaz to talk about the team’s first outing.
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Graduation Countdown is 66 days
On the River today the sun rises at 6:56 a.m,. And sets at 7:29 pm. It will be a waning crescent Moon, 12% of the moon will be visible.
Low tide will be at 7:46 am. High tide is 1:26 pm and low tide returns at 8:10 pm.
Winds from the southeast from 5 To 10 Knots, Becoming Southerly at 10 To 15 Knots, with Gusts To 20 knots In The Afternoon. Waves 1 Foot, Increasing To 1 To 2 Ft In The Afternoon.
In weather, today will be a little warmer with overcast skies and a high of 63 degrees.
Today we share Kai Gully delivering her Senior Speech from the Chapel at St. Margaret’s School.
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Graduation Countdown is 66 days. Those we some of the sounds from yesterday’s Chapel. Today we share Gracie Bird delivering her Senior Speech from the Chapel at St. Margaret’s School. On the River today the sun rises at 6:57 a.m,. And sets at 7:28 pm. It will be a waning crescent Moon, 12% of the moon will be visible.
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Last Friday, we thought we would drop in on a class that finds Taylor and Gracie speaking with some guests in their River Runs Through it class. It is an independent study with Mr. Bell that begins to frame some of the STREAM program that is coming to St. Margaret's next fall.
Across the nation, students have fallen behind due to COVID restrictions in all forms. For St. Margaret's, the plan is to enhance our college prep program with an innovative class schedule and more hands-on teaching.
Here are some excerpts of Gracie and Taylor speaking with Mr. Bell . . .
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For a Senior at St. Margaret’s School, a rite of passage, and graduation requirement, is the successful delivery of a Senior Speech.
Today’s senior speech is Rebecca Meberg.
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For a Senior at St. Margaret’s School, a rite of passage, and graduation requirement, is the successful delivery of a Senior Speech.
Yesterday, Gianna Fischetti kicked off the speeches. The Daily Thistle was there, and from the chapel at St. Margaret’s School, here is Gianna Fischetti.
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On the River today the sun rises at 7:08 a.m,. And sets at 7:22 pm. It will be a waning Gibbous Moon, 84% of the moon will be visible.
High tide will be at 5:10 am. Next low tide is 11:27 pm and high tide returns at 5:35 pm. Sunset today is 7:22 PM. Sunrise tomorrow is at 7:04 AM. The moon phase is Waning Gibbous tonight.
Winds from the west at 5 To 10 knots, Becoming Nw Late In The Morning, Then Becoming Eastern In The Afternoon. Waves Less Than 1 Foot And Light Chop, Diminishing To Flat Late In The Morning, Then Increasing To Less Than 1 Foot And Light Chop In The Afternoon.
In weather today Intervals of clouds and sunshine in the morning with more clouds for later in the day. High 69F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph.
Graduation Countdown is 73 days.
In news from the BBC
Remember, you’re listening to the nation’s only independent school news feed from the banks of the Rappahannock River, here, from the campus St. Margaret’s School in Tappahannock, Virginia.
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JoAnne Brown of the Class of 1985, who is from England, stopped by St. Margaret's over Spring Break. Mr. Bell joined her for a walk through A-House and several stops in the ancient dorm to reminisce about her short time on the river.
In Mr. Bell's walk with JoAnne, some sounds from her return to the A-House.
We hope to see JoAnne in the coming years as her son is pursuing a doctorate at Georgetown - and visits to DC - JoAnne is promising it will include a return to Tappahannock.
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Today we highlight Author Harper Lee who was best known for writing the Pulitzer Prize-winning bestseller 'To Kill a Mockingbird' and 'Go Set a Watchman.'
She graduated from the University of Alabama, studied at Oxford and attended law school. She was a close friend of Truman Capote who wrote “In Cold Blood”
“To Kill a Mockingbird” became an instant popular success in 1960. A year after the novel was published, 500,000 copies had been sold and it had been translated into 10 languages. Critical reviews of the novel were mixed. It was only after the success of the film adaptation in 1962 that many critics reconsidered To Kill a Mockingbird.
We share excerpts of a rare interview with Harper Lee in 1964 conducted by Roy Newquist for an interview in New York
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We share some final sounds from last weekend’s performance of The Brother Grimm Spectacularthon with some final interviews from the cast.
Like so many in the world, we continue to follow Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
We share this report from the United Nations
In News from the BBC
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We devote a portion of this day to the ancient city of Kiev, now known as Kyiv in Ukraine.
As the eyes of the world are upon this contemporary city in Ukraine, lost is the great history of Kiev. It was only in 2019 the old name of Kiev, a Russian name, was jettisoned for the Ukrainian name, Kyiv.
In 988, Kiev was the "mother of Russian Cities" when Prince Vladimir converted Old Rus (pronounced Roose) to Christianity - what we know today as Russian Orthodox. But Russian history is complex, and between 988 and 2022, there was a lot of history of alliances coming and going.
We want to share from the Daily Thistle to look at Russia as a tale of three cities: Kiev, Moscow, and St. Petersburg. Historian James Billington wrote of this tale of three cities, that a famous proverb,
Moscow was the heart of Russia;
St. Petersburg, it's head,
but Kiev, its mother.
Those who know Russian history see clearly how Vladimir Putin twists the historical record for political ends. When we see the courage of the Ukrainian people in the face of Russia's invasion, we see a culture whose courage is informed by its religious history and tenets of a particular courageous Christianity that inspires us all.
We share some song and thoughts from yesterday's Monday Chapel.
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We share some sounds from this past weekend’s performances of THE BROTHERS GRIMM. SPECTACULATHON.
In News from the BBC
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We continue our introductions of cast members of this weekend’s drama production of THE BROTHERS GRIMM. SPECTACULATHON.
Today will be our last episode for the week as our School President declared tomorrow, Friday Feb. 25th a President’s Day - no classes.
We will return on Monday, February 28th.
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On the River today the sun rises at 6:47 a.m,. And sets at 5:57 pm. A low tide will appear at 10:18 a.m. and a high tide at 5:08 pm. This evening another low tide will appear at 8:32 p.m. Winds from the southwest at 10-15 knots, waves between 1 and 2 feet. In the weather today it will be cloudy with rain ending in the afternoon. High 72F. Chance of rain 80%
Yesterday morning St. Margaret's students and their teacher, Ms. Harvey were interviewed LIVE on WRAR FM 105.5 ahead of our school production of "The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon."
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On this day in 1732, 290 years ago, George Washington was born 30 miles from our campus. Across the river, Presidents George Washington, James Madison, and James Monroe were all born on the northern neck.
Today, we thought we would share some insights about George Washington from Yale University Professor Dr. Joanne Freeman.
Dr. Freeman speaks of George Washington in, "Balancing Solemnity with Humility: Washington as the Reluctant Leader"
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On this President’s Day we share certain aspects in the life of President James Garfield
OnJuly 2nd 1881 James Ephraim Garfield was shot in a Washington train station by would-be assassin. The lead bullet that tore through the president's back on that summer morning, did not kill him. Instead, it plunged Garfield, his family, and the entire nation into a nightmare that seemed impossible to believe it was tragically real.
Although born into abject poverty, Garfield's life was marked from the start with astonishing achievement. Named a professor of literature and ancient languages as a college sophomore, he was a college president by age 26. While in Congress, he wrote an original proof of the Pythagorean theorem. A fierce abolitionist Garfield was hailed a hero during the Civil War and after was a passionate advocate for the rights of freed slaves.
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The Daily Thistle visited the river lawn during dinner to find several students enjoying being outside, being maskless, and enjoying the campus and our river.
Two bald eagles, whom we named, Martha and George, often appear in the tree next to the dock. But when the Osprey returns in the spring, the eagles tend to stay off the river and make their home upon Hoskins Creek. We hope to install new webcams to share more of our campus live.
The name of the river comes from an Algonquian word, meaning "river of quick, rising water" or "where the tide ebbs and flows," the name used by the local Rappahannock tribe.
The Rappahannock is approximately 195 miles long It traverses the entire northern part of Virginia from the Blue Ridge Mountains in the west where it rises, across the Piedmont to the Fall Line, and onward through the coastal plain to flow into the Chesapeake Bay, south of the Potomac River.
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Recently we spoke with Ms Hicks who serves as our international program coordinator
We asked her to speak about our Chilean exchange program… Ms. Hicks . .
And this is part of the Queen or St. Margaret’s School association, right?
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On Saturday, Mrs. Bell was in Massachusetts sharing a coffee with a member of the Class of 2021. The conversation was about STEAM and what’s coming to the St. Margaret’s campus next fall. Here’s Mrs. Bell from Massachusetts…
When students visited several museums in Washington, D.C some students sent clips of their impressions on certain pieces that interested them. We thought we would share a compilation of those observations….
In news from Virginia Commonwealth:
Virginia Lt. Gov. Winsome Sears reportedly used her high-heeled patent leather pump to gavel the Virginia Senate to order Monday after someone made off with her gavel.
Washington Post reporter Laura Vozzella tweeted that "an unknown prankster" took the gavel and hid it, but that Sears "took the trick in stride."
"One shoe can change your life," Sears said of her quick-thinking solution. "Just ask Cinderella."
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In 1794 Jones founded the first black Episcopal congregation, and in 1802, he was the first African American to be ordained as a priest in the Episcopal Church of the United States. He is listed on the Episcopal calendar of saints. He is remembered liturgically on the date of his death, February 13, in the 1979 Book of Common Prayer as "Absalom Jones, Priest, 1818".
Rev. Johnson speaks to Absalom Jones not as a symbol of victimization but of self-determination, not a causality of America’s history of racism but as a compelling example to follow in the efforts of African-Americans to live out the dignity they possess by their birthright and by virtue of baptism.
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Happy Valentine's Day from St. Margaret’s!
On February 25th and 26th the drama department will host a production of the Brothers Grimm.
The fairy tales of the Brothers Grimm are turned on their heads in this fast-paced, rollicking ride as two narrators and several actors attempt to combine all 209 stories ranging from classics like Snow White, Cinderella, and Hansel and Gretel to more bizarre, obscure stories like The Devil's Grandmother and The Girl Without Hands. A wild, free-form comedy with lots of audience participation and madcap fun.
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The new optional masking protocol is going well on campus as transmission rates in Essex County continue to fall.
Yesterday members of the Board of Governors and Mr. Bell surveyed the riverbank in preparation for the placement of the new pier and River Classroom. It will be constructed this summer. The 20 x 20 classroom at the end of the pier will be complete with a roof, solar panels, and wind turbines. The school is making an emphatic move to see that this great natural resource and the historic river is folded into the curriculum. Next year students will also be able to obtain a motorboating license as well as take advantage of sailing, kayaking, rowing, and paddleboarding. The new pier will include an adjacent floating dock where students will be able to launch their kayaks right off the CTC Center where science classes are located. There are also plans to refit the dock at the athletic center as well as restore the small boat shed. Next year students will be able to move between the main campus and the Athletic Complex by water.
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Last Friday our Black Student Union hosted a celebration kicking off Black History Month, here they introduced the evening’s festivities. . .
Na’imah Ford shared her poem “Audible Silence”
These included a fashion show, step dancing, and finally, the audience joined in a large line dance.
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We opened with those words from Rev. Dr. Johnson at our morning chapel about St. Paul and how a community comes together, particularly our community here at St. Margaret’s School. On Sunday students visited several Museums on the National Mall in Washington DC. One Intrepid group was in the national museum of African American history and culture. We spoke with the students as they entered one of the exhibitions asking them about their observations. The same students also came across a photo of four young men standing at what appeared, a boxing event. There was no evidence of what it was . . . only the disturbing photo.
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Our St. Margaret's students were part of those voices from the Washington DC's National Cathedral yesterday. The annual gathering with our friends from across the Mid-Atlantic Episcopal Schools Association to sing and worship was a great success.
And this voice was Jenny Yang, who shared a reading in the Evensong service.
Today's Daily Thistle also shares the news that St. Margaret's has moved to optional masking beginning today. Our Health Office reports a consistent downturn in Essex County and recommended the time for optional masking.
This week we have several reports from the STEAM week and we will share them in the forthcoming episodes. Tomorrow we will share some of the Black Student Union's Friday celebration that kicked off black history month!
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Last night we were treated to a performance by our Chilean students who Shared with us insights into the Chilean culture. It Was Then followed by a presentation to our head of school and the director of our international program by the Chilean students.
The community was privileged to watch a Chilean dance That was incredibly well-received by the audience.
Following the performance, it was time for a blue-grey volleyball challenge match.
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It was a full build day yesterday, and today the nine teams will finish their Rube Goldberg machines. We are seeing several interesting designs, and one thing that we learned - get to the materials early.
Students and faculty are learning a great deal about the challenges in working in a highly collaborative atmosphere. It is about team building, it is knowing each other's strengths and utilizing them to accomplish the goal. Which team is evolving, and visits to the classrooms see each team getting stronger and stronger.
Last night it was roller skating over in Montross, Virginia.
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Yesterday was the start of the the Lunar New Year
Lunar New Year is the beginning of a calendar year whose months are Moon cycles, based on the lunar calendar or lunisolar calendar. It is particularly celebrated in countries within East and Southeast Asia, being influenced by the Chinese lunisolar calendar.
Last night, we gathered in the gym to celebrate the Lunar New Year with student performances that shared with us the traditions of China, Korea, and Vietnam.
I thought we would let last night speak for itself as we share with you the sounds of the celebrations of the Lunar New Year at St. Margaret's School.
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It is Black History month as well as Day 1 of STEAM WEEK
From the CTC Center here are some sounds of the early collaboration.
We spoke to some students about the day
So, introduce yourself and tell us about the day!
What was your biggest take away from this day . . .
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From the road, with Autumn Courtney
It begins today, our STEAM WEEK where nine teams of faculty and students begin their work on their Rube Goldberg projects.
This morning there is an orientation about Rube Goldberg, and six simple machines. Each team will have a five-step build activity. Since this is the first time the team’s taken shape, there will be an element of team-building among each team in this activity.
After lunch, each team will set out to begin the challenge and facilitate the drafting of a plan. the plan may be electronic or on paper or any other medium, but it must present the ideas of the group so that everyone has the same shared understanding and can present to our roving experts on Tuesday for feedback.
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Did you know that St. Margaret's is part of a consortium where students are able to study abroad at other schools named after Queen Margaret of Scotland. This program is a unique opportunity for students enrolled at our school!
This month, we've welcomed seven students from the St. Margaret's British School for Girls in Chile to live and learn with us these next few weeks.
We caught up with Octavia Traverso last night at dinner and asked her to share her experiences
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There has been a flurry of activity on campus this week as we head into STEAM Week.
For the first time, we all sat down to an advisory lunch in our dining hall looking over a Rappahannock. Some were mesmerized when a bald eagle was diving for its own lunch in the river waters. Mr. Bell shared with parents and faculty that the school remains in the present state of COVID mitigation with masking and distancing. As the Commonwealth of Virginia begins to move to optional masking in schools, St. Margaret’s is mindful of the high transmission rates in Essex County. But the good news is a significant decline is in motion, and soon, we are expecting to move to mask optional. The Daily Thistle will be the first to know when the protocol moves to optional masking, so stay tuned to this podcast.
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Those were some sounds from play practice yesterday, I will have more news about that performance in some coming episodes! This week students and faculty are engaged in a “Pin It to Win It” game. Each student and faculty received four clothespins with four different names written on them. We were instructed to discreetly pin one person each day. If they catch us trying to pin them, our pin would be nulled and we cannot try to pin them again.
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Today a reading in Chapel "A letter to the Hebrews" calls on us to open our hearts to strangers. Our Dean of School, Ms. Cupper Dickinson reads the passage. . .
Rev. Dr. Johnson then spoke to the letter in her homily.
As an Episcopal School, St. Margaret's tradition is one of graciousness, generosity, and humility—we do not possess all of the answers, and we are eager to learn from each other.
In our Monday and Friday Chapel services, we cultivate a climate of learning and inclusion. We believe the best vehicle for enhancing that learning is the intentional cultivation of a diverse community, which is welcomed into the total life of the school. A sense of belonging is essential to a learning climate and serves as the optimal mode of preparation for our students' futures.
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For 100 years, Sunday Compline has been a mainstay at St. Margaret's School. I wanted to share some sounds from Compline at St. Margaret's last night from the school's Chapel. First, our senior class president and school president are always sitting in the sanctuary. Let's hear from them on what Compline is at St. Margaret’s….
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One blessing at St. Margaret’s is the sudden appearance of former teachers who are still a fixture on our campus. Ms Velletri is well known - she was the sage of the history classrooms at St. Margaret’s for decades. We wanted to share some reflections in a conversation we had with her yesterday as the snow began to fall. We also wish her a Happy Birthday on the very day this podcast was published.
We asked Ms. Velletri what might she imagine St. Margaret's Hall looked like in 1921 as the school took over the former home.
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Today marks the one-year anniversary of President Biden's inauguration.
I thought I would share some interesting facts about Inauguration Day
Did you know that Theodore Roosevelt did not use a bible when he was administered the oath of office in 1901? He is the only president to do so.
It is a bit surprising how little the Constitution prescribes for inauguration day. In addition to the date and time, the Constitution only specifies the exact wording of the oath taken by the President-elect before he or she begins their duties.
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Last night our basketball team lost to St. Catherine’s in its second game of the season.
In the news from the college front, The Chronicle for Higher Education reported that close to half a million students dropped out of college last fall. Since the start of the Covid Pandemic, colleges have seen a significant downturn in enrollment. There is a concern for the growing educational erosion that will only exasperate the educational divide.
In Public Education News
Pressure is mounting on New York City Mayor Eric Adams to bless remote learning options for teachers and students as schools operate understaffed, thousands of students staged walk-outs and complain of unsafe conditions, and attendance plummets – even as coronavirus infections are now decreasing across the city.
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At yesterday’s Chapel, we celebrated Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
From St. John’s Church, this was part of St. Margaret’s School’s commemoration of Dr. King.
Last night St. Margaret’s also joined the 33rd Annual Essex County Community Celebration of the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
The event was sponsored by the Angel Visit Baptist Church in Dunnsville, Virginia.
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Today is Martin Luther King, Jr Day.
Born on January 15, 1929, King would become an American Baptist minister and activist who be the most visible spokesman and leader in the American civil rights movement from 1955 until his assassination in 1968.
His leadership was fundamental to ending the legal segregation of African Americans in the United States. Dr. King rose to national prominence as head of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, which promoted nonviolent tactics to achieve civil rights, such as the March on Washington in 1963.
He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964.
In 1961 he sat down to speak of his life, leadership, and his non-violent approach with the BBC.
We share excerpts from that interview with BBC correspondent John Freeman and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
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Last night our basketball team opened season play against Veritas. The Scotties were defeated but the loss was more a reflection of early nerves and their short preparation time.
We caught up with some fans in the stands to ask them their observations of the games
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One program at St. Margaret’s School is our 5-Day Boarding experience. What is it? Today we thought we should share some insights . ..
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Last night we caught up with the Varsity and JV basketball teams as they prepare for Thursday’s game.
We spoke with senior Carrie Nelson to have her share some insights about the team.
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Those were the voices of the duo that performed at yesterday’s Chapel.
In a Reading to the Hebrews, Rev. Johnson’s Homily spoke to a certain coming together 30 years after the death of Christ. It was a critical time in Christianity, would the teachings of Jesus Christ be remembered and propelled?
From St. John’s Church, this is Rev. Johnson with the students of St. Margaret’s
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As the Omicron variant spreads across the nation, the levels in Essex County have also increased. We are happy to report that life at St. Margaret's remains masked, distanced, and safe relative to the world beyond Water Lane. Students are attending classes as we move into the core of the 2nd trimester.
The weekend highlight was a raucous bingo night hosted by the Bells. Prizes included two lemon pound cakes by our Ms. Beverely, a sundry of candy bouquets, cases of soft drinks, and finally, a day off of classes with a friend - complete with a free meal at N&N Burger.
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We are thrilled to share the news that Elle McKee Williams was crowned Holly Ball Queen of 2020-21 on December 28 at the 125th Holly Ball. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Harrison Williams IV of Reedville.
Elle graduated from St. Margaret’s last year and now attends Virginia Tech. She was escorted by Zachary Marsten Swift of Reedville. Queen Williams chose as her attendants Kirsten Blair Smith and Ashley Nicole Burgess.
Since 1993, from Charlottesville, Virginia, Ken Myers has been producing The Mars Hill Audio Journal. Every two months, the two-hour compilation is produced for listeners. On this Friday, we thought we would share a small portion of one of those interviews, with Ken Myers and author David Smith. The topic is technology and learning - or more simply, what is true learning?
From the Studios of Mars Hill Audio. . .
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This is our final Merry Christmas on this . . . the 12th Day of Christmas . . .
It is Epiphany … and it signals the end of the Christmas season as lights and trees will begin to come down. This week the school is opening for in-person classes … We are following a more stringent mitigation protocol for the next two weeks .. while everyone is being tested. The campus experienced its first winter storm … which resulted in many students delaying their return on campus. We started classes today with about 80% of the students on campus.
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Today we share last evening’s Christmas service from our own St. John’s Episcopal Church here in Tappahannock, Virginia. Presiding over the service is Reverend Candine E. Johnson who serves as both the Rector of St. John's Church and Chaplain at St. Margaret's School. From St. John’s Episcopal Church in Tappahannock, Virginia
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Three years before the founding of St. Margaret’s, King’s College at Cambridge University began the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols. That was in 1918, only six weeks after the end of World War I.
In 1928, this annual tradition was the first broadcast across the world. It continues today as the Daily Thistle comes to you from King’s College, Cambridge.
In 1919, Arthur Henry Mann, organist at King’s College, introduced an arrangement of “Once in Royal David’s City” as the processional hymn for the service. In his version that will soon begin, the first stanza will be sung unaccompanied by a boy chorister. The choir and then the congregation join in with the organ on succeeding stanzas. This has been the tradition for over 100 years. It is a great honor to be the boy chosen to sing the opening solo—a voice heard literally around the world by 75 million listeners.
Welcome to King’s College’s Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols on this Christmas Eve.
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Last night we celebrated our Christmas Service at St. John’s Episcopal Church, and that was part of the processional. I will share more as we head into our Christmas Break. Following the service, we then shared a dinner hosted by the 8th and 9th graders, who led a Christmas Trivia competition following dinner. Mr. Bell then shared that the school has already raised over $1.1 million this fall and part of the efforts will see a new STEAM program brought to the school for the 2022-23 school year. It will include a number of new programs for the river, technology, computer coding, art classes, and the humanities - and there are more announcements to come. Our school is on the move!
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Today our seniors will be hosting a Christmas Market in the Reading Room, The Thistle Shop will also be open from noon to 1:00 pm. We celebrate our Christmas Service today at 5:00 PM. We will be sharing portions of it in tomorrow’s Daily Thistle. Following the service, the St. Margaret’s community will be sitting down for a Christmas Feast in the Dining Hall. Following dinner, we will then gather in our historic St. Margaret’s Hall as each advent friend will deliver their stockings to one another. All in the midst of Hot Chocolate and Christmas music. Tomorrow, I will be hosting the final Daily Thistle for the year. But join us on Christmas Eve as I will be hosting a special edition of the Daily Thistle that will include a Christmas Eve service.
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This is Pearl Harbor Day
We thought we would continue with some sounds from the Tappahannock Christmas Parade that was held on Sunday.
In Alumnae News, we share the death of The Rev. William "Pegram" Johnson III, of Richmond, Va., who died on November 25, 2021. A Burial (Memorial) Eucharist is scheduled for 2 p.m. on January 2, 2022, at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 815 E. Grace St. in Richmond, with a reception following the service. Rev. Johnson was St. Margaret’s Chaplain in the 1970s. We will share more about Rev. Johnson in the future episodes.
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Water Lane. The Parade route found our St. Margaret’s campus front and center as the judges set up their headquarters in front of St. Margaret’s Hall. Our new Step Team was also in the parade along with the school float. This is actually the first time in a long time that St. Margaret’s has participated in the parade. It is also true with the level of Christmas decorations that the school has produced this year. It’s all part of the school’s adherence to its Episcopal tenets and just old-fashioned Christmas spirit.
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Our dock is illuminated with a 20 ft Christmas tree that is easily visible from the bridge. Special thanks to Jimmy Townsend and his facilities department for assembling it. Today the admissions team is hosting an Open House. Appearing on the main banister in St. Margaret’s are the stockings for our community. Next Wednesday Advent Friends will deliver them to one another. Today is the formal opening for our Advent Friends - may the games begin! Girls interested in playing basketball will also be joining the Bells in the B-House for lunch today. Yesterday Mr. Hodson’s American history classes walked over the B-House for an on-site lesson of the 1766 Stamp Act Crisis. The home was the scene of its owner, Mr. Archiiball McCall, a British Tax Collector who was dragged from the home and tarred and feathered in front of it. The legend is that Mrs. McCall, traumatized by the event died months later - and now haunts the house as The Grey Lady. Tonight the 8th and 9th graders will join the Bells in the B-House for pizza, tree trimming, and a movie. They will also visit the room where the grey lady’s spirit has appeared.
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Yesterday the Class of 2022 entertained the school with a rendition of the 12 Days of Christmas with a holiday twist. The class changed the lyrics in such a way as to gain favor with our head of school, Mr. Bell, to grant their holiday wishes in the form of senior privileges. Here are some of the sounds from yesterday’s school meeting and the Class of 2022.
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Those were some of the sounds from my Chemistry lab on gases. Yesterday was Giving Tuesday, and our $10,000 goal was surpassed with gifts approaching $15,000. On behalf of St. Margaret’s, thank you for supporting our school in our Centennial year. We also thought we would share a conversation with Mrs. Brooke Trible Weinman we met in Atlanta Georgia this fall.
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Yesterday Rev. Johnson welcomed us back from our Thanksgiving Break and spoke of the Advent Season and The Feast of Lights marking the Jewish celebration of Hanukkah in her homily. We share this as we return for the start of our 2nd Trimester, but, first, we hope you enjoy a duet performed by two of our students.
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Blessings in the Christian season of Advent and the Jewish celebration of Hanukkah - The girls returned to campus into the late hours as they prepared for the start of the 2nd Trimester. This will be the last year of our trimester structure as St. Margaret's will move to semesters next year. The girls returned to campus into the late hours as they prepared for the start of the 2nd Trimester. This will be the last year of our trimester structure as St. Margaret's will move to semesters next year.
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Today we bid farewell to our students as St. Margaret’s begins its Thanksgiving Break, trimester exams concluded today. Last night a handful of students enjoyed sitting on the dock under a full moon with the moonlight reflecting off the river. It was a brilliant evening in the blessing of our riverside campus.
On behalf of the faculty and staff, we also thank Virginia Ferguson and Autumn Courtney as our official hosts of The Daily Thistle. We thought they, too, deserved a break - as the two of them have hosted almost 70 episodes this year.
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In January 1989, the announcement that Margaret Robinson Broad would fill the role of headmistress was made. At the time, Mrs. Broad had been working at st. Margaret's for nine years, first as a French teacher and department head; then, as the Academic Dean. November 16, 1989, a celebratory service was held in Ball Memorial gymnasium to celebrate the ministry of Mrs. Broad, Saint Margaret's 10th head of school
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Yesterday we celebrated St. Margaret's Day or, as it is often called in Scotland, the feast day of St. Margaret.
Today we share some sounds of the celebration of St. Margaret.
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Saint Margaret of Scotland was born in 1045, her birthday a mystery. Margaret was sometimes called "The Pearl of Scotland." Her birth in the Kingdom of Hungary to the English prince Edward the Exile, Margaret and her family returned to England in 1057. Following the death of King Harold II at the Battle of Hastings in 1066, her brother Edgar Atheling was elected as King of England but never crowned. After she and her family fled north, Margaret married Malcolm III of Scotland by the end of 1070.
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Perhaps Miss Woolfolk's greatest achievements were the lives of the students she touched. In a letter dated January 22, 1986, Ann Rice Gray '65 wrote, "Your life has so much power for good in the lives of so many people. I wish there were a way to trace those threads of influence through the good works and best moments of all the girls you are a part of. There you are, in Tappahannock, Virginia, and there are bits of you operating for good all over everywhere. You are leaving something that is alive and growing and fine. I am grateful to be a part of it. I promise to try to make my part shine for you."
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In our Centennial year, we continue to share chapters in the school history. In our last installment, we spoke of the appointment of Ms. Viola Woolfolk as headmistress of St. Margaret's in 1948. She would be formally installed in that post in 1950.
In October 1954, ground was broken for Latame Hall. The building was completed and opened in 1955. At the time, Latam§ Hall served as the dormitory for the upper school and housed the infirmary, reception rooms, dining room and kitchen, and recreation room.
Miss Woolfolk began her career at St. Margaret's, living in one room in St. Margaret's Hall. That room is above the Head of School office and serves as a classroom today. She took care of many of the day-to-day details of the school's operation, including bed checks, planning meals, and chapel services.
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This is Veterans Day.
On the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month in 1918, World War I ended. The Great War was fought in Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East among 30 countries. 20 million died, another 20 million wounded. Towns and villages saw the entire generation of their young men killed in the trenches and fields of France.
England’s educational bastions of Oxford and Cambridge would see the brightest minds extinguished in mere minutes - it was the beginning of the end of the British Empire. Between 1919 and 1922 the United States government identified, located, and exhumed about 44,000 bodies and shipped them home for burial — many to the Washington region. The war changed everything.
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A few weeks ago, I sat down with Ms. Kate Taylor, an alumna of the Class of 1983. She is also a member of the Board of Governors and has a deep affection for St. Margaret’s - a place she will share, “changed her life.” Let me share a short conversation with Ms. Taylor as we sat in St. Margaret’s Hall, complete with the music visitors here in our hallowed hall.
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When they began at St. Margaret’s there were 48 states. When they graduated, Alaska and Hawaii were added to the United States. America was mesmerized with the Mercury Seven as the Space Race took shape. Consumer innovation found soda cans made of aluminum.
And more and more Americans were buying televisions and seeing things nationally and globally. For the Class of 1961, the world changed mightily during their time on the river and beyond. So let’s join their life journeys and learn how their St. Margaret’s experience shaped that journey.
And such was the Class of 1961’s journey back to their school, here, at St. Margaret’s. Want to meet and enjoy the company of such women? Join us on June 4th, 2022.
For me, it is the day of my graduation from St. Margaret’s - and a day for all our alumni as my class, the Class of 2022 joins the Sisterhood on a joint Commencement & Alumni Weekend. We will be inviting all our classes to join us in not only celebrating my class and the alumni - but the Centennial of St. Margaret’s School.
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This is an abbreviated version of The Daily Thistle.
Welcome from the banks of the Rappahannock River, on the campus of St. Margaret’s School in Tappahannock, Virginia.
For Monday, November 8, 2021
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Today we share Part 3 of our conversation with the Class of 1961. 60 years ago, the class departed the campus when President Kennedy was leading the nation in the so-called, Camelot years. A month before their graduation, in April of 1961, the botched invasion of Cuba known as the Bay of Pigs took place, as did America seeing the Soviet Union send the first man into space. As they went off to college, the Berlin Wall was being built. In November 60 years ago, President Kennedy would send 18,000 military advisors to South Vietnam, escalating U.S. involvement. We know what followed in the Vietnam War.
For the Class of 1961, the events were serious, not unlike our times in the world today. As students at St. Margaret’s, we have a unique privilege to meet the women of our sisterhood who share with us their experiences in our riverfront school. On the banks of our noble river, we grow in grace with those who came before.
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Yesterday, Virginia began to share her interview with the Class of 1961. We left off with a lead into a story about a St. Margaret’s Teacher who would be arrested for espionage! Remember, in 1961, America was in a Cold War with the Soviet Union. The Cuban Missile Crisis was 15 months after the Class of 1961 left the St. Margaret’s Campus. And here, on our riverfront campus, a teacher was passing state’s secrets to America’s enemies.
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Nancy Mullins Winters
Carol Collins Taylor
Kacky Hudson Fox
Dorothy Quarles Chappell
Betty Townsend Sexton
Those are the members of the Class of 1961 whom we welcomed to campus last weekend.
On Friday, they all arrived on campus to celebrate their 60th Reunion. All were determined to overcome COVID and see that they celebrated the class on campus in 2021. On Friday evening, they joined the Bells for dinner in B-House with other friends.
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Yesterday was All Saints Day - and the school celebrated Holy Eucharist at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Tappahannock, Virginia
As an Episcopal school, the very soul of the St. Margaret’s community is found in the Episcopal Church from which our school motto rises - “As you grow in age, may you grow in grace.”
In honor of All Saints Day, we share the music of our chorus and words from Reverend Johnson.
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This Monday we share some of last night’s Trick or Treating on Water Lane. Particularly the St. John’s Cemetery where some St. Margaret’s girls were in costume and waiting with candy and surprises from behind the headstones.
Here are some sounds from the children entering the cemetery.
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At St. Margaret's, these singular events are important to us. The Daily Thistle would like to thank the faculty, families, friends, and the student body for supporting our seniors in their last game in the gym we know so well.
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This weekend we will welcome members class of 1961 who will be celebrating their 60th reunion. many are staying in a house, and students and faculty are invited to welcome this amazing class back to the campus of their youth.
Next week the daily thistle will be sharing a series of interviews with members of the class of 1961, so be sure to tune in to our program.
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At St. Margaret's School, these singular events are important to us. The Daily Thistle would like to thank the faculty, families, friends, and the student body for supporting our seniors in their last game in the gym we know so well.
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Last night both our JV and varsity volleyball teams were in action hosting Steward school from Richmond Virginia.
The JV team won 2-1 in a very exciting campaign to their victory. The Varsity also won 3-2.
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One Sunday activity that is gaining steam is learning to drive the school’s motorboats. Credit Azaliah Sedogo of the Class of 2024 who started to learn to drive one of the boats a couple of weeks ago when she simply asked Mr. Bell if she could try it.
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Today we continue the story of St. Margaret’s School as we celebrate our Centennial year.
In the midst of all of the loss of headmistress, Mrs. Craighill in 1947, St. Margaret's was still growing.
Anderton House was purchased from the Andertons in 1947 for use as a dormitory. The original structure was built around 1760, about the same time as Brockenbrough House. Originally, the building served as a "prize house" for tobacco. A southern wing was added on to the house in the 1890s.
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Last night members of the St. John’s Congregation and their pets, joined the girls on the river patio behind Latané. Compline became a blessing of the pets.
Virginia Ferguson was there, and we would like to share some sounds in the blessing of the pets.
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Sounds and interviews from Fall Family Weekend.
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We visit Ms. Jessie Rice, or Dr. Rice of Lexington, KY. She was a 1982 graduate of St. Margaret's School and attended SMS with her sister.
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Today we continue the story of St. Margaret’s School as we celebrate our Centennial year.
When Miss Latane resigned in 1943, the school tapped Rebecca Reinhardt Craighill to act as Headmistress. While her tenure would be short, the contributions that she made to the traditions of St. Margaret's are still felt today. A faculty member at St. Catherine's in Richmond, Mrs. Craighill moved to Tappahannock with her three children, having been widowed six years earlier. Among her contributions are the creation of the school seal (1946), the Current yearbook (1945) the school's newspaper (1945) and the official class ring (1946), still worn by students today.
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Today St. Margaret’s is enjoying a day off from classes following a successful Fall Family Weekend that found the school open to school events for the first time since COVID began.
We will be sharing some sounds from the weekend, but today we continue the story of St. Margaret’s School as we celebrate our Centennial year.
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We are thrilled to be able to open our campus once again and welcome our parents for a chance to see what is happening here. We would like to remind you that a mask will need to be worn by everyone at all times inside however can be off if you are outside and 6ft from each other. In addition no parents or family are allowed “on dorm." St. Margaret’s Hall and Brockenborough House (and classroom buildings for conferences) will be open for families to have a place to visit inside.
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Today we pick up the history of St. Margaret’s from our October 5th installment. You might remember, we were speaking to the several headmistresses who served St. Margaret’s. We now return to the early years in 1923.
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We introduce Autumn C. '22 who debuts her Daily Thistle production for Wednesday, Oct. 13. Autumn includes plans for Parents' Weekend, music from Chapel and news from the BBC.
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Virginia and Autumn share some sounds from our morning Chapel, Monday, Oct. 11. Mrs. Bell also shares our tides and weather reports.
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Today, we enjoy the final installment of our special interview and round table discussion with Mrs. Patty Webb, President of the St. Margaret’s Alumni Association and member of the Class of 2003 and our own Layke Jones, Class of 2022, President of our Student Body in future productions.
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We enjoy part 2 of 3 of our special interview and round table discussion with Mrs. Patty Webb, President of the St. Margaret’s Alumni Association and member of the Class of 2003, and our own Layke Jones, Class of 2022, President of our Student Body in future productions.
From the B-House at St. Margaret’s School, our round table discussion begins with the appreciation of living and learning at St. Margaret’s School.
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Yesterday’s Community Service Day was wildly successful! Across the campus, a great clean up occurred that included the installation of one of our crew shell in the dining hall.
The Class of 2022 buried its time capsule followed by the St. Margaret’s prayer, and we then planted the Centennial Tree.
We then finished the day with the singing of “down to the river to pray" for part of a Centennial celebration.
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Virginia F. '24 sits down with Patty Webb '03, President of the Alumnae Association of St. Margaret's School. She is joined with Layke J. '22, President of the Student Body. The conversation covers the shared experiences at St. Margaret's School. This is part one of a two part series that was hosted in the B-House at St. Margaret's School
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St Margaret's original School building was known as the Gordon-Wright house and needed additions in order to house the school. Today, the building known as St. Margaret's Hall was purchased to act as classrooms, the dining hall, gymnasium, and dormitory.
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St Margaret’s began as most enduring Institutions do, with a simple idea. The idea that the nation's children deserve a quality education that equips them with the moral, spiritual, and scholarly foundation to carry them through their lives. An Episcopal network of schools was the dream of Bishop Wiilliam Cabell Brown; and in 1919, in the midst of the Spanish Influenza, it became a priority for the Episcopal Diocese of Virginia.
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Yesterday at Lunch we celebrated Ms. Judy Preston. Our School President, Layke Jones shared a video, and we include sounds from this touching video. Today we include music from Ms. Judy's favorite artist - Elton John. Ms. Judy, enjoy your farewell and your grandchildren.
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And today we will celebrate Ms. Preston during lunch as she prepares to return to her grandchildren and all the wonders of being a grandparent.
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The Daily Thistle declared libero Saylor Gray player of the game in last night’s 3-2 win over St. Anne’s Belfield. The Scotties marched to a 2-0 lead when a tough St. Anne’s Belfield team clawed their way to tie the scotties 2-2. The Scotties fell behind 8-4 in the final game when a key timeout found the Scotties beginning to rally.
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School Updates. Ms. Sgroi, head coach of the tennis team, has done an immaculate job forming a powerful team. She does not take “I can’t” as an answer and pushes every single girl to their fullest. As a member of the team I know firsthand that everybody on the team, new tennis players and old have improved by a considerable amount under her leadership. We will now hear from other members on the team about what they think.
BBC News
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In our Centennial year, there is a kind of rebirth in our Episcopal school. The focus of the school is the church, the river, and scholarship. Our head of school invokes it as the “Gospel of Do.”
Our daily podcast is part of this, we work everyday to bring you news of St. Margaret’s School, as well as global outlooks from the BBC and other outlets.
And what we have learned at the Daily Thistle? A daily podcast is a daily exercise in showing our daily work in the name of St. Margaret’s School. This is why we are the only independent school hosting a podcast of this kind.
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At St. Margaret's School, we knew her as Mary Harrison, a member of the Class of 1972. There she is in the St. Margaret’s Yearbook, fishing off the school’s dock. So when we heard of her passing this week, we were deeply saddened. But it came of no surprise to learn that she died holding the hands of her siblings and embraced in prayers and all the wonderful memories in the life of Mary Harrison.
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Meet Gabby, who speaks about the Stepping Club. A special dedicated Daily Thistle to our friend, Ms. Judy Preston.
BBC News, too!
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We visited several alumnae in Richmond, and I thought I would include this interview with Charlotte Frischkorn of the Class of 1958. Charlotte remembered Viola Woolfolk, the perennial headmistress who led St. Margaret’s from 1948 to 1984 - pretty much through the entire Cold War. Enjoy meeting Charlotte!
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The portraits of the original owners were unfortunately removed in 2016, but Centennial plans are to return them to the B-House. One of them includes its original occupants, Catherine Flood McCall, who died a spinster. Known by legend as “The Grey Lady,” it is said that the sounds of her swishing skirts and soft footsteps are heard throughout the house. It is understandable that she has stayed on when surrounded with such elegance and beauty as is presented by the historic Brockenbrough-McCall House.
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And so we continue our Centennial stories, we pick up the earlier story of the Brockenbrough-McCall House written by Dianne Saison.
In 1927, it was bought by the Episcopal Diocese of Virginia to be used as the second building of the burgeoning St. Margaret’s School.
Over the centuries, the additional edifice was built upon, with rooms added to the front and back, as well as a front porch uniting the two wings. The house is Flemish bond brick encased in wood.
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Benjamin Blake Brockenbrough and his wife, Annie Mason, lived at the home for many years. They remodeled a small room at the back of the house into a lovely chapel. Now a sitting room, the room boasts a stunning view of the Rappahannock River.
News from St. Margaret's School. The Sisterhood meetiing.
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Celebrating Ms. Beverly's Fried Chicken with her fans!
In 1813, the home was purchased by Dr. Austin Brockenbrough, son of Dr. John Brockenbrough, who served the Navy as a surgeon and was one of Tappahannock’s leading physicians.
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As we lead up to our Centennial stories, we pick up the earlier story of the Brockenbrough-McCall House written by Dianne Saison.
Despite the turmoil, the family remained in residence. In 1767, Katherine died during the birth of the couple’s second daughter, Catherine McCall. With two young children in a country fraught with political upheaval, McCall decided to send his daughters overseas to a school in Scotland. In 1770, a changed man, he added his signature to a non-importation decree.
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In Chapel yesterday, we share “All Things Bright & Beautiful” first published in 1848. It consists of a series of stanzas that elaborate upon the clause of the Apostles' Creed that describes God as "maker of heaven and earth", and asserts a creationist view of the natural world.
We remember that Archibald McCall set up a merchant business in town and married heiress Katherine Flood. The family business prospered. However, while McCall loved the land where he had made his home, his loyalties were divided between the crown and the colonies.
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The Daily Thistle commemorates 9/11.
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Virginia F. '24 shares our weekend activities. Chapter 2 of the history of the Brockenbrough-McCall House.
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Virginia F. '24 shares some history of the Brockenbrough-McCall House as a slice of architectural beauty on a multi-faceted, graceful campus of St. Margaret's School. Special thanks to author Dianne Saison whose words frame our reports.
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Celebrating Althea Gibson who was the first African American to win the U.S. Open, beating Louise Brough, 6-3, 6-2. Virginia also catches up with some faculty on their early observations.
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Tubing reviews from the Rappahannock, VA. Words from Rev. Johnson from our Monday Chapel.
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Labor Day! Following a busy weekend, we offer a lite version of today's Daily Thistle.
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Announcement of Ms. Dickinson as our new Dean of Students and Athletic Director.
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Virginia F. '24 speaks with members of the volleyball team on the eve of their opening match
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Virginia F. '24 offers news from St. Margaret's and introduces Ms. Harvey from Sage Dining.
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Virginia F. '22 shares sounds from the first Monday Chapel Service held in St. John's Episcopal Church in Tappahannock, Virginia.
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From St. Margaret's School in Tappahannock, Virginia. The Daily Thistle is the only daily newsfeed from the banks of the Rappahannock River
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The School Prayer from the Baccalaureate and BBC News
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The Daily Thistle returns from Memorial Day Holidays!
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News from St. Margaret's School
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Celebrating Mrs. Cathy Sgroi
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News from St. Margaret's School
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Softball falls in State Championship.
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News from St. Margaret's School
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Girls' Softball travels to Round 2 of State play. New leaders installed in Chapel, today.
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News from St. Margaret's School
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Monday news from St. Margaret's School
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St. Margaret's wins LIS Softball Championship
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Live, from the B-House at St. Margaret's School.
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St. Margaret's School launches "The Daily Thistle" with news about the happenings on the Rappahannock River in Tappahannock, Virginia.
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Colley Bell IV introduces St. Margaret's School's Daily Thistle on Easter Sunday 2020
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