Elizabeth Choi

Editor-in-Chief

Editor-in-Chief

Elizabeth Choi

First of all, I am so sorry to Joeanny, from whom I have asked for three extensions and counting (unlike Hamilton, I would not be able to write 51 essays in six months). Secondly, I am so sorry to the Copy and Layout editors for having to edit and format this monstrous farewell. I had the brilliant idea of thinking I could express my gratitude to every single one of my babies (aka the members of 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 boards), and I was about halfway through before realizing that this was a mistake.

Without further ado, however, let’s start with News. Katie: thank you for bringing such great energy to 016, even when it was the Production Week of your own Graduation Issue and you didn’t have to be there. I am also sad to say that I have not followed the advice you left me in your senior survey. To the Comic Sans girl (Alanna): the 2021 November Issue continues to hold my best editors’ note, and “Everything Has [Become More Unhinged Since Then].” Kevin: your enthusiasm for journalism shines beyond the Argo, and I always appreciate your reminders for Editors’ Meetings and your texts about relevant AP Lang prompts. Thank you, Elyssa, for being a rock in the News section amid those truly dreadful requests for additional graphics. To Ailin, who is always on top of everything: I am so excited to see you co-leading News.

Next is Forum! Jack: you are the only one I know who could fill a whole page with one single article (and could probably extend it to the entire 16-page paper, if we let him), and your legacy in Forum is still felt today. Alice: your love for Insomnia Cookies and 10 Things I Hate About You always made the long days of Production Week more bearable. Thank you, Cinly, for spearheading Forum’s first-place win in Editorial Writing at Suffolk this year, and who is so talented that Columbia had to accept her after her extracurricular fair article. Jessie: your determination to gatekeep (or steal) article ideas from News made each Editors’ Meeting more exciting (and also led to the imposed time limits for each section). Thank you, Michelle, who might as well have been a Head Editor this past year with her great ideas and dedication.

While I love Forum, it is second in my heart (and the actual paper) along with every other section behind the one that started my Argo career, A&E. A&E nurtured my skills as a writer and editor for four years, and I will always think of it as my home. Anna: if there’s anyone to thank, it’s you. After taking one look at my terrible first article, the then-A&E editors clicked their tongues, shook their heads and gave me your Winnie-the-Pooh exhibit review to use as a guide for future attempts at journalism writing. Since then, you have become my Head Editor, co-Head Editor and my friend throughout it all. Thank you for encouraging me to apply for Editor-in-Chief two years ago when I didn’t know sophomores could do so and supporting me when I was unsure if I could take on such a responsibility. I’m so grateful to you for everything.

Continuing in A&E, I would be remiss if I didn’t thank Kelsey, with whom I have been through so much. From taking walks around the school with me when 016 became too crowded to asking for the PDFs this year so you can edit them in your college dorm (which, by the way, you never did), I cherish all of our moments together. Maggie: thank you for all of the good advice, both personally and through the advice column. Irene: thank you for making me feel less alone when we were the only sixie A&E writers. Ellis: thank you for introducing album reviews to the Argo. Eliza: you suck. Just kidding! Thank you for putting up with my insults, single-handedly destroying the November Issue and lending me your prom dress that’s not really yours (and forcing me to wear it to 016 during Production Week). To our creative consultant, Emilia the Amazingest: I had so much fun being your boss this year, and I wish you all the best in finding powerful friends. Kyler and Caitlin: thanks for contributing to the Fun Page with your crosswords. For all of the current students reading this (although I doubt any have made it this far), if you want to join a writing section in the Argo, join A&E because 1.) it needs the writers and 2.) it really is the best section.

Now, onto the section that I am always too tired to read through thoroughly on Saturday at 2:00 A.M.: Sports. Thank you, Lilah, because while I’m not sure how Sports won first in Sports Writing at Suffolk last year, I’m pretty sure your journalism major had something to do with it. Shane: thank you for introducing your little brother to the best club at school; we have high hopes for him. To our most committed editor, Lauren, I will miss hearing you say, “Wait, we have Argo today?” at lunch on Tuesdays. Romy: you don’t know how much I appreciate the fact that you actually look at the PDF edits spreadsheet when I ask Sports to do so. Thank you to Maddie, who is always hard at work in her corner in 016 when she’s not on the field or court.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: if I had known Copy was a real section when I first joined the Argo in seventh grade, I would have been a Copy associate. In the section that is mine in an alternate universe, we have Darren, who makes Writers’ Meetings more eventful with his Gilmore Girls-themed questions. There’s also Fiona, one of my favorite people ever — thank you for answering my grammar questions no matter how late the night or early the morning (I included the em dash just for you to decide what to do with it). To Justine: thank you for your knowledge of the Copy Bible toward which I aspire. Lindsey: it must have been hard being a new Copy editor this year, but now you are able to enjoy it as a Head Editor.

Layout: I hold no grudge for not adding me to the email list. To the Layout queen, Emma, you are one of the most intelligent and dependable editors with whom I have ever had the pleasure of working. Theresa: thank you for all of the post-meeting words of wisdom that you have bestowed upon me. Additionally, I want to apologize to Lily, who has stayed up until absurd hours fixing all of the last-minute mistakes the Editor-in-Chiefs find; please sleep more next year. To Aidan (Tran): I think you’re an amazing person, and the song “Beautiful Girls” will never fail to remind me of you. Mari: here’s to continuing to use the horrorscopes for your own romantic endeavors!

Last but not least of the sections is Photo. Regina: one of our only goals this year was to not disappoint you with the Argo playlist even if it doesn’t have your top-tier selections. To Mary: the energy you bring to Production Week is unmatched — whether it’s ballroom dancing to “The Rainbow Connection,” stealing my phone to curl your hair or showing off your Show Choir routine, Production days with you were always better. We have Karen, who despite being the only half-sane Photo editor, is also insanely talented. I will miss watching you edit pictures in class and trying to figure out with me how to attend both Argo and Gospel Choir. Alex: thank you for the iconic but scary “Argo 2022-2023” cover photo and the “The Other Side of The Door” screaming sessions. Andrew: there’s no one else I’d rather beat in Taylor Swift Sporcle. Also, “Don’t You” think it’s interesting that my favorite songs and albums have become your favorite songs and albums since we’ve become friends?

But this farewell is not over yet. Thank you, Nadine and Julie, for navigating the Argo unbelievably smoothly through unknown waters (i.e., the pandemic) and for taking a chance on a fifteen-year-old fresh-faced A&E editor; I hope I made you proud. Thank you to those who, although they are not part of the Argo, bless us with their presence: K*** Nuuuguuyopoon (My), Phatie Hween.jpg (Patty), the self-proclaimed president of the Argo (Isa) and the twins who are interviewed in every issue (Sam and Zach). Ms. Ellis and Ms. Harari: I loved talking about books and movies with you two on my way to retrieve the MacBooks. To Ms. Kwan: you are quite simply the best. Thank you, Ms. Pierce, for being the Sherlock to my Watson when we try to track down people’s homerooms during carnation season. And obviously, the Argo has the best faculty advisor, Ms. Moon. Ms. Moon, the Argo would sink without you. Thank you for providing us with your sagacity, horror stories and chocolates from your desk. While I will miss you, I will not miss having to schedule wearing my dad’s UMich sweaters only on days for which I know you’ll be absent.

Finally, I have to give a huge thank you to the only two people for whom I have turned on my read receipts: the other halves of Aidabeth and Selizabina. Aidan (Chen): we’ve come a long way from that infamous four-hour phone call. You were only an assistant editor before assuming the role of (assistant) Editor-in-Chief, but I’m glad I had you by my side as we tried to remember what in-person Argo was like (especially the carnations fundraiser, a memory that my mind has thankfully erased). To Selina: the Dad to my Mom (as decided upon by our Argo children in their complicated, self-made family tree), I’ve learned so many lessons from you, like how one can insert puns into any situation or how knowing all of the U.S. presidents is useful for “fun” (her words, not mine) online quizzes. You’re both incredibly talented and smart people; thank you for making each year of being EiC memorable in its own way.

It’s time to say goodbye to the many nightmares I’ve had about the Argo, the PDF edits that I enjoy a little too much and the badly-timed Just Dance sessions. The ship that is the Argo will always be my home, but it’s time for me to dock and see what lands await me. Jenny and Joanna: we entrust navem nostram to your more-than-capable hands. I will be cheering you on from a distant shore, eagerly watching where you sail next.

Love,

Elizabeth

Selina Tang

Editor-in-Chief

Prep your life jackets and tissues because here I (Ar)go!

While Liz and I truly believed the Argo would capsize after we both missed Graduation last year, it has surprisingly sailed out alive. This would not have been possible without our creative writers, talented associates and thoughtful editors. 

I will start with production (Liz has never let me go through them backward in our editors’ note). Photo ensures that both our paper and Instagram showcase a high-quality lens into BLS. Layout has always been a machine that churns out pages, graphics and posts. I would trust Copy to fix every spelling and grammar mistake on my resume, wedding invitations and testament because they have proven themselves trustworthy. 

Of course, there are our writing sections. Sports impresses me with their unexpected speediness, headlines with actually funny puns and passion for promoting girls’ sports. A&E greatly expanded our knowledge of the arts world, traversing into industries such as fashion and literature. Forum has never failed to bring us insightful opinions, all the tea on BLS and controversial takes. Lastly, News has started each of our issues strong, dedicating themselves to raising awareness, developing writers and updating their Google Classroom banner. 

I am incredibly grateful for all the seniors that have accompanied me through the past six years; we survived the confusion of being packed into 207, disappointment of having our articles cut and stress of Adobe malfunctions. I know you will all continue to thrive wherever you are off to next, but please do not forget the Argo, because you have left big shoes to fill and will inevitably receive questions from new editors experiencing their mid-career crises. If you could respond within two business days, that would be fabulous. 

To the new board: I cannot wait to see where you will take the paper next. You have all demonstrated your commitment to providing student news and maintaining the legacy of the Argo. I know you will make me proud, but more importantly, make yourselves proud. To Jenny and Joanna, you have already accomplished the first step: continue the tradition of a height difference. You also completed the second step if there are people reading this note: complete a graduation issue! Third step: be sure to order Hawaiian pizza and double chocolate mint cookies in case I come visit. Fourth step: trust your guts. You will always figure it out (and if not, Ms. Moon will). 

Oh, Ms. Moon! As your name suggests, there is something unworldly about you. We are not sure how you have the physical and mental capacity to teach all your classes, supervise the Argo (and other less exciting clubs), attend an exorbitant amount of meetings, bring us food and show us clips of Ohio State’s marching band, all while on two hours of sleep. On a more serious note, your perspectives, suggestions and reminders keep the board sane, the Argo running and our ledger balance positive. I appreciate you for entrusting me and Liz with the helm. 

Finally, I would not have survived this year and be here writing this farewell without my co-grandparent. Thank you for making me feel validated by needing to sleep at midnight but the Layout children are still exporting the PDF. Thank you for knowing all the Classics-related hints when we struggle to test the crossword at 8:00 P.M.. Thank you for being the rational and kinder one that softens the tone of our emails. Despite your refusal to change the inbox wallpaper, shuffle the music or wear your math test outfit in our editors’ picture, I am endlessly impressed by and grateful for you. Thank you, Liz. 

After counting down each Production Week, Final Friday and Taylor song skipped in the Argo playlist, the Selizabina era is finally coming to an end. I thought we would never escape the Argo while sitting through those two weeks of interviews. Jenny and Joanna gave us a glimpse of hope when they made us walk the plank (go home) post-ice cream social; however, it appears that one never truly leaves the Argo. I will always forget to insert the Oxford comma in my English papers, write out COVID-19’s full legal name and never start sentences with ‘however.’ I will cherish all my memories with the Argonauts who have become my friends and family.  

Slayout. Peace out. 

Selina Tang

Elyssa Cabey

Assistant News Editor

Now that my time at BLS is over, I can’t help but sort each of my memories of this school into “Things I’ll Miss” and “Things I Won’t Miss.” Some of the things I won’t miss are waking up at 5:30 AM, asking to go to the restroom and MCAS testing. But when it comes to the things I will miss, the Argo is undoubtedly at the very top of my list.

I don’t think there’s any publication quite like the Argo. The amount of genuine passion that the people behind the scenes have for connecting with the community could never be matched by any other newspaper, student-run or professional. On top of that, there is a permeant sense of camaraderie among both the editors and the writers that I won’t be able to find anywhere else. 

The BLS mission statement promised seventh-grade me “preparation for successful college studies, responsible and engaged citizenship and a rewarding life,” and I can say with complete certainty that each and every one of these promises was fulfilled thanks to the time I spent on the Argo team. I feel fully equipped to handle whatever challenge the world throws at me, and I’ve met so many people whose influence truly changed my life.

Hours of rereading and PDF editing taught me that attention to detail is guaranteed to result in high-quality work. Writing calculated emails and making intimidating phone calls showed me the value of effective communication and community engagement. And interacting with the incredible group of staff and contributing writers who helped make this year possible taught me how to be a leader.

To my amazing Newsies crew of Joanna, Kevin and Ailin: thank you for the countless hours we’ve spent trying to figure out how to fit 11 articles into a nine-article space, and for your commitment to getting the story no matter what. I’ve learned so much about journalism from the three of you, and I can’t tell you enough how much I appreciate the enthusiasm and creativity you manage to deliver at every opportunity. 

Thank you to Selizabina, our Editors-in-Chief, for your unparalleled organization and leadership. Both of you have been such a source of inspiration for me as an editor and as a student, and I wish you the best of luck (not that you’ll need it) in college and beyond. Also, thank you to Ms. Moon for constantly supporting us and keeping us in line.

I also want to give a huge thank you to my favorite A&E editor Irene, because I never could have made it through AP Calculus BC this year without your monthly 11:00 PM phone calls explaining to me the many nuances of series convergence tests. 

They say that when something ends you shouldn’t cry because it’s over, but instead smile because it happened. And thanks to the Argo, I get to look back on my time here at BLS with a big smile.

But I definitely can’t wait to start using Oxford commas again. 

Cinly Mo

Forum Editor

“It’s all over, you’re still here” — the infamous Senior Class chant that celebrates the end of an era. While it may be hard to bid adieu to this school and all its accompanying memories, it is even harder to part ways with the Argo, what many consider the ultimate vessel of this school community’s voice and what I consider a second family. 

Like many Argonauts, I began my journey in the ninth grade as a naive individual who knew two things. For one, I withheld many unexpressed strong opinions about the world because of my innate debate spirit. And for another, I needed an activity that could occupy my free time better than playing Minecraft. Lo and behold, I joined the Argo’s Forum section and never looked back since. 

The most valuable thing that Forum gave to me was an understanding of the power of the written word. There is something special about pouring hours into meticulously drafting an outline and conducting strenuous research for it to accumulate into the perfect article, that is published with clarity and confidence. 

In hindsight, my humble beginnings of being intimidated by previous Forum editors and getting cut from a publication have conditioned me well. The Argo gave me a platform to grow not only as a writer and editor, but as a person in my identity. As I’ve become more confident in the content of what I was publishing, I felt my confidence in my ability to enact significant change blossomed as well. 

On the editorial side, I pushed our writers to voice their angsty unpopular opinions to fully embrace the authentic art behind journalism (even if it came at the cost of lengthening our editing process and making an enemy out of the Copy section). So to the current and aspiring writers of the Argo, don’t be afraid to challenge conventional schools of thought, so we avoid losing individual relativity in our discourse. 

To the EiCs and the Argo editorial board, I will miss our egregiously long Tuesday Editors’ Meetings, Insomnia cookie deliveries, subpar ice cream socials, and of course, the collective editing grind in 016. Shoutout to Andrew and his associates for his innate ability to keep me off task. Here’s to Alex for introducing me and the entire Forum section to the glorious Starbucks Matcha Lemonade. 

Of course, this farewell wouldn’t be complete without mentioning my former Argo influences. Nadine and Julianna, thank you for encouraging me to swap out my staff writer application for an editor application two years ago. Jack and Alice, thank you for taking me under your wing and teaching me everything there is to know about Forum. Jessie and Michelle, you are some of the most talented, young, spirited individuals I know. There is nobody else I’d rather produce an article within days with or spontaneously call at late hours to discuss non-Argo matters with. I can rest assured that the Forum will be in good hands as long as you guys are in charge and the group chat messages aren’t ever leaked. And to Hannah and Annie: congratulations on being accepted onto the board. Wishing you all nothing but the best! 

Irene Deng

A&E Editor

If my sixie self could describe the Argo in one word, it would be “intimidating.” Everyone else — the writers, associates and editors — seemed incredibly experienced and committed to producing an impressive paper every issue. Soon, however, I realized that the Argo was a friendly environment where I could improve my writing and editing skills.

I will miss my time within the Argo. Writing various articles, interviewing interesting people and learning about my school community has been rewarding. As an editor for A&E, I am grateful for the many opportunities to improve my leadership, in addition to the editors and writers I have worked with.

To Ellis, thank you for being Assistant Editor and then Head Editor alongside me. I especially appreciate your album reviews and enjoyed the time we spent together. You’re so dedicated and have significantly contributed to our section. Also, to Eliza, thanks for making the transition from writer to Assistant Editor this year. I’m glad you joined A&E, as you’re responsible and hard-working.

To Penny, thank you for your quality articles as a former Contributing and Staff Writer. I’m confident that you’ll successfully lead A&E with your initiative and commitment to improvement. To Lena, thank you for agreeing to transfer from News to A&E; I know you’ll be a fantastic editor. To Zoe, thanks for your consistency and contributions. Your artistic background will definitely come to use in improving this section. To Alice, thanks for listening to me ramble about A&E at the EC Fair two years ago. I also appreciate your responsibility and dedication.

To Mary and Emilia, thank you for writing the Corner. I never submitted a question, but I’m sure your advice helped everyone who asked.

To Elizabeth and Selina, thank you for being amazing Editors-in-Chief. Staying at BLS until 10:00 P.M. on certain production days must have been really difficult. Despite the exhaustion that you must’ve experienced frequently, you led the Argo effectively and efficiently.

To Elyssa, thank you for your friendship outside of the Argo. I’ll miss you a lot. 🙁

To Joanna and Jenny, congratulations on being the new EiCs. Enjoy your new level of authority, and best of luck with managing the various responsibilities.

Lastly, to any underclassman who wants advice from a graduating senior, I would say to learn from your mistakes and take advantage of opportunities. Also, don’t be afraid to take risks, as you might be pleasantly surprised by the outcome. And if you want, make sure to join the Argo. 🙂

Ellis Seul

A&E Editor

Before I even knew I’d be going to BLS, I knew I wanted to write for the newspaper in high school. I was eager to have my voice heard and get experience writing about topics I care about, and the newspaper seemed like the perfect place to exercise this creative and journalistic muscle.

When I eventually started at BLS as a B-sie, one of the first things I looked into was how I could get involved in the Argo. And although my first meeting was a bit overwhelming for a shy 14-year-old newcomer, I still felt welcomed into the Argo community. As a contributing writer, I never would have expected that three school years later I’d be where I am now as an editor, and I’m so glad and grateful for the opportunities the Argo has given me.

There are many people I’d like to thank for making my Argo experience excellent. To my Co-Head A&E Editor Irene: thank you for your dedication to making our section as good as it can be, and for your consistent commitment to every step of the editing process. To Eliza: thank you for making the step up to Assistant Editor this year — you’ve done an excellent job, and it’s been great hanging out with you during Production Week.

I’d also like to thank some of the writers who helped make A&E’s content awesome and engaging: thank you to Alex, Caitlin and Kyler for your work on the crossword! I’ve loved looking through your complex and creative clues during Production Weeks. Thanks as well to Mary and Emilia for taking on Corner duties this year and sharing your wisdom with students.

To our incoming A&E editorial board, thank you for your eagerness to take up the torch of leading our section. Penny, Zoe and Alice, your articles have been awesome and it’s been great seeing you grow as writers and editors, and to Lena, thank you for your flexibility in switching from News to A&E and for bringing your new ideas to the section. I know that A&E is in great hands for next year, and your leadership will help the section thrive for years to come.

Finally, thank you to the Editors-in-Chief, Selina and Elizabeth, for leading the Argo this year and helping the newspaper reach new heights, as well as Ms. Moon for advising me over the past four years. Your leadership has helped to keep me accountable and grow as an editor and mentor. Along with everyone else in the Argo community, you’ve helped to make my time here awesome, and I can’t wait to see where the new editorial board takes us next!

Eliza Duff-Wender

Assistant A&E Editor

First off, I will admit that I wrote this farewell letter late. Sorry, Joanna and Jenny. This is not a reflection of my feelings toward you whatsoever. Now that I have confessed that I have neglected my final Argo duty, I will get on with this farewell.

I started writing for the Argo in my junior year as a last-minute attempt to put something on my college application; however, it transcended its worth as just another extracurricular on my list very quickly. Writing for A&E, I got to write about fun, current events, unlike in English class. I could write casually, with opinions.

When I became an assistant editor at the end of my junior year, I felt a bit overwhelmed — I didn’t know anything about the actual process of creating the newspaper, and I didn’t know many editors. This changed very quickly. Luckily, with the help of A&E’s Google Slides, the Copy Bible and my fellow editors, I soon learned how to write a dummy, make edits and put the finishing touches on an article.

The Argo staff welcomed me warmly, and my first time around as an editor, during the Graduation Issue, I was moved by the warm environment. We worked hard, but found ample time to talk about anything and everything.

I have loved editors’ meetings and production weeks, and the banter that has come with them. I found a group of amazing friends in the Argo, and I have cherished every moment with them.

To Ellis and Irene: thank you for guiding me through my job as assistant editor. I would truly be lost without you.

To Selina: I love you. You are so awesome and I hope you know how much I admire your hard work and intelligence. You and your smile never fail to brighten up my day. I know I can always count on you.

To Elizabeth: I am so glad that we rekindled our eighth-grade friendship. Despite that it may not seem like it because of my constant teasing, I am extremely grateful that I have come to know you in the past year.

To Andrew: thank you for being friends with me in our chemistry class despite the fact that I was basically the only junior in a sea of sophomores. I love saying hi to you in the hallways and ranting about our calculus-induced stress.

To Joanna: I will miss you terribly. You are simply a ray of sunshine and probably the coolest person ever.

To Mari and Lily: thank you for riding the Red Line with me (yay Dorchester). You are both such sweet people, and I’m grateful that you laughed at my often poorly-executed jokes.

Thank you for the Hamilton and Taylor Swift sing-alongs, the jokes, the dancing, the Starbucks runs and hugs. I will miss you all dearly.

Lots of love,

Eliza

Lauren Choy

Sports Editor

Even though I only joined the Argo three years ago, it is safe to say that time flew by. I stumbled upon a group of people passionate about writing even amid a global pandemic. At the time, I was unsure of my true interests at BLS and struggling to find a community outside of the sports teams I was a part of.

Writing and editing for the sports section allowed me to pursue my three greatest passions — sports, writing and gender equity — at the same time. I did not really realize how special this was until I wrote the article about the NCAA weight room disparities between male and female athletes. Doing so, I became really passionate about the topic and realized that writing for the sports section was not only about sports reporting but more importantly, it was about advancing equity and changing the male-centered narrative of the sports world.

And there was no one I would have been happier to do so with than my co-editors, Maddie and Romy. To Maddie, thank you for sprinting from Argo to practice with me and for always being down for a run to Boloco. To Romy, thank you for all the laughs and punny captions. Although on some days, we may have spent more time coming up with funny captions than editing articles, I do not regret a second of it. The three of us without a doubt made an amazing team. I mean, who but the three of us would have been able to consistently get awarded to choose Friday’s food, yet never been able to eat it?

To next year’s Sports editors, Jessica, Vera and Caitlin, please know that I will always be a text away if you ever need anything. Although all three of you are new to the editing process, I have complete faith that you will rock the Sports section next year, making it stronger than ever before. If I had any words of advice, I would recommend that you continue to make sports writing a fun and exciting process. Everyone in the Sports section writes because they love sports and writing, so rather than encouraging you to try to be on time or be stricter about deadlines, I want you to remember that it always works out. Have fun.

And finally, to my favorite Editors-in-Chief, Selizabina. Thank you for the delicious food, late-night Facetimes and for putting up with me. Throughout the past year, both of you have not only been my EiCs, but you have also become two of my best friends.

To anyone reading this who is an athlete or simply likes watching or learning about sports: JOIN THE SPORTS SECTION. I promise you that we are not intimidating at all. Just like you, we simply enjoy sports and want to use our words to communicate the thrill of the sports world to the rest of the school.

I feel overwhelmingly grateful for all the experiences, friends and lessons that the Argo family has given me, and, although I am graduating, I know that this family will stay with me forever.

Romy Li

Assistant Sports Editor

From accidentally getting on the wrong bus on the first day of sixie year to watching as the plumes of dust billowed up around us as we counted down on the last day of senior year, my first and last days at BLS both ended in tears. It’s actually all over. As I reflect on the memories, I can note that it has been a trying but transformative six years here. 

Going into high school, I was reluctant to join clubs, especially academic ones, and preferred to just take the bus home from school. When the pandemic hit, however, I started reading and writing more in my free time and decided to try writing an article for the Argo. I remember choosing the Sports section not only because I loved to play tennis and throw footballs around with my dad, but also because of how welcoming the Sports editors were. Even through the rectangles on a Zoom screen, I could feel their energy. I wanted to be that dedicated to something, so I decided to keep writing articles. Being a part of the Argo has helped me grow as a writer, embrace my inner grammar nerd and be inspired by incredibly passionate leaders.

To Selizabina, thank you for creating a wonderfully fun environment for the editorial board during those tiresome Production Weeks where many a feature had to be cut, and for your absolute dedication to the Argo; you have both truly exemplified what it means to be a great leader, and I will miss you and the endless sequence of puns in your editors’ notes.

To Lauren and Maddie, your dedication to BLS Athletics and to the Sports section has never failed to amaze me. From relentlessly brainstorming and adjusting punny headlines to hiding from senior assassins to making Terence run out and get us food, some of my best days this year were spent with you two in 016. I will miss you both, and I couldn’t have asked for better co-editors.

To Jessica, Caitlin and Vera, I know with you three, the Sports section is in good hands. After reading all of the various articles you’ve written this year and being amazed by your unique voices and your dedication to outlines and interviews, I am beyond confident that you will head this section with the leadership and work ethic of accomplished student-athletes. I’m proud of you guys, and I can’t wait to see how you add your own personalizations to the Argo’s coolest section!

To Rachel, Juliet and Julia, it has been a pleasure watching you guys grow throughout the year. I have no doubt that you will continue to bring your best work to the table, and am excited for you guys to continue learning and growing as writers.

Lastly, to all the other editors, writers and production associates, thank you for your dedication and cooperation in producing each issue. I will never forget waking up at 5:00 A.M. on the morning of Valentine’s Day to take artsy flower pics and chat, with a side of bundling and delivering flowers.  

Wishing all of you the best of luck in your future endeavors 🙂

Madelyn Taylor

Assistant Sports Editor

In the fall of tenth grade, my soccer season didn’t happen because of COVID-19 restrictions, so I decided I needed something to do with all my free time. As it turns out, hopping on an Argo Zoom meeting in October 2020 was one of the best choices I made during my BLS career.

I went to a few sections’ breakout rooms but ultimately decided that I wanted to write for Sports. It seemed most fitting since I was an athlete myself, in addition to the fact that the editors seemed very cool. Three years later, I can confidently say that I made the right decision.

First off, the long list of thank yous:

Thank you to Lilah and Shane for their hard work as Sports editors in 2021-2022 and for being great examples.

Shoutout to Selina and Liz for being the best EiCs an editor could ask for. I know I speak on behalf of all of the Sports editors when I say we truly appreciate your patience and consistent text reminders. 🙂

Of course, a huge thank you to Lauren and Romy for being absolutely incredible people to work with. I wouldn’t have wanted to sit in our corner of 016 and come up with pun-filled headlines with anyone else! 

Thank you to all of the other members of the editorial board for the laughs, constant Taylor Swift tunes and incredible dedication to making the Argo possible.

To Jessica, Caitlin and Vera: you guys are going to kill it as Sports editors. Keep the section alive and thriving! 

The Argo is one of the coolest things about BLS and I am truly so grateful to have been a part of it. From Production Weeks to 5:00 A.M. carnation deliveries, this newspaper has given me countless memories (I will not miss the PDF edits though…). It has also allowed me to develop a love for writing that I honestly don’t think I would’ve otherwise.

While the Sports section may not be known for a stellar attendance record or punctuality, I’d say we’re pretty cool —  the chillest, if you will. Honestly, it would’ve been out of character for any of the Sports editors to actually turn this farewell in on time, so I had to stay true to my section (Though I never thought I would get flamed on the Argo’s Instagram story).

To future Argonauts: take advantage of everything this club has to offer. Make friends, interview someone cool, go to a journalism workshop; it’s worth it! 

Thank you all for the best years at the Argo! 

Maddie <3

Darren Seto

Copy Editor

In Teddy Roosevelt’s renowned “Man in the Arena” speech, he emphasizes that credit should be given to the individual who actively participates in the arena, confronting challenges and criticism, rather than to the critic who merely observes and critiques.

Upon joining the Argo, I entered a distinct arena, surrounded by accomplished individuals. It was a humbling experience, as I quickly recognized the magnitude of what I had yet to learn and establish. From understanding the intricacies of the Copy Bible to eventually leading the Copy section, these experiences are ones I deeply cherish.

At some point in our lives, we will all be this man in the arena, confronting challenges and facing criticism. Embrace the things that make you apprehensive, as true growth awaits in these moments.

To those who will follow in our footsteps, I urge you to embark on this path that the Argo has to offer. The bonds forged within this community, the camaraderie among our crew during Production Weeks and the journalism community we have fostered have been invaluable experiences — experiences each of you can benefit from greatly, regardless of interests. Here is where one discovers their leadership style, uncovers their potential and hones the skills required to excel. It is through the people who surround you that your character will be enriched.

The Argo, in many ways, resembles an arch, with each component playing a role in its strength and stability. Within this grand structure, it has been an honor to lead Copy.

Firstly, I extend my gratitude to Alice and Cindy, who graciously accepted me as an associate and mentored me in such an arena that Roosevelt mentions, toward becoming a Head Copy Editor — the responsibility entrusted to me during this transition has shaped me into a stronger individual.

Fiona and Lindsey, thank you for standing by my side as fellow keystones over the past two years. Your unwavering commitment to Copy has been instrumental in upholding our section. I have no doubt that both of you will continue to accomplish amazing things with Copy in the coming year. To all the diligent Copy associates, your impressive work has contributed to the excellence of our section, and I extend my sincere appreciation for your dedication. And to Haley and Vicky, congratulations on your new roles. I have full confidence that you will excel in being keystones for Copy, ensuring its strength and integrity moving forward.

As a News staff writer, I have been afforded the privilege of acquainting myself with the exemplary leaders of Boston Latin School through journalism. Thank you to Ms. Skerritt and Mr. Gallagher for the enlightening conversations we shared over articles and interviews. Joanna and Kevin — the News Editors of this past school year: your leadership for News was inspirational, and the assignment emails and meetings led by you both were filled with creativity and humor. Joanna, your commitment to the Argo has been truly inspirational — you will do renowned things in the future in ways I cannot imagine.

I remember my first experience in the Argo was going to a Forum meeting with Cinly. Frankly, as a sixie, Forum eluded me. For Cinly, though, it was a section that resonated profoundly with her. Cinly, who anchored Forum with her tireless efforts, seeing your commitment to the section these past six years has been a constant source of inspiration to me. I loved being your greatest cheerleader throughout BLS, and I will continue to be as you head off to Columbia — though our alma maters are somewhat rivals.

Elizabeth, Selina and Aidan, your leadership over the last two years as Editors-in-Chief have been instrumental in propelling the Argo — congratulations on the Editorial Writing Awards. The late-night escapades of dashing around with the crew always brought a sense of excitement. Jenny and Joanna: I have no doubt you guys will continue to do great things continuing to drive this school’s publication.

To the select group of teachers, mentors and friends — especially those who have gone above and beyond — I cannot thank you enough.

Argonauts — it has been great. Go Wolfpack!

Darren

Justine Wei

Assistant Editor

After six long years at Boston Latin School, I am excited to embark on my next journey. But before that, I want to take the time to appreciate the Argo and all the memories I’ve made here.

I was never a good writer, but I remember joining the Argo three years ago over quarantine to become a better one. Well, that never happened because after lurking in a basic Zoom workshop, I soon realized that writing wasn’t my thing. So I decided to join Layout. But somehow I ended up on the wrong Discord server and began my first-ever Argo Production Week with Copy.

It was the best accident that has ever happened in my life. After joining Copy, my grammar skills have improved tremendously. Reading through an average of 23 articles per issue, my reading speed has increased by 23 percent after speed-editing dozens of late articles to make it in time for Thursday Edits, which resulted in a decline in my average hours of sleep per week by 23 hours. But despite all that, I will miss looking forward to Production Weeks almost every month. I will miss copy-editing articles late at night, during class, on the train and using it to procrastinate on homework. I will certainly miss critiquing a particular section’s unique style of writing that has the same exact plot line for every one of their articles.

But most importantly, I will miss everyone in the Argo community, who’ve made my experience here so memorable — I must not forget about the Insomnia cookies too.

To Darren. I understand that as seniors, this year was very overwhelming, but I am glad we were able to pull it through. I am grateful for our time working together and especially thankful for your leadership in keeping Copy together.

To Lindsey. I am so happy to have worked with you this year and occasionally slacking off with our discussions about K-Pop and Genshin Impact (I promise these are rare occurrences). Please know that I am very sorry for harassing you into greeting me every time you see me in the hallway.

To Haley and Vicky. I am so proud watching the progress you guys have made this year and I am certain that y’all will be incredible Copy editors, carrying the Copy section when certain editors, cough cough, will be at A.S.I.A. meetings.

And finally, to Fiona. You are my literal twin. Who else also worships taking AP Language and Composition with Ms. Barich, has a nerdy obsession with William Strunk Jr. and E. B. White’s Elements of Style and pulls up the fallacies of language whenever the opportunity comes? She is the only one I’ve found so far who also finds weird fulfillment in consuming lemon juice plain, straight from the lemon.

Looking at Fiona is like looking into a mirror, except one of us is about to graduate and the other is still suffering under the premises of BLS. In all seriousness, I am so thankful that you kept everything together last year when Darren and I were unfamiliar with in-person production weeks. Thank you for always holding me accountable and reminding me to do various tasks when I go off track. Finally, thank you for being such a great listener and putting up with some of my strangest comments about the randomest things (especially that particular letter about cows that we wrote late at night to escape homework). I enjoyed not only our fierce discussions of alterations of grammar rules to the Copy Bible, but also our intimate convos in the corner of 016. Let’s have more of those in our future Discord voice calls when I am in Michigan!

– Justine

Mary Bosch

Photo Editor

When online school started, I suddenly had more time, so I decided to sign up for Photo and A&E in the Argo. At the end of the year, I only applied to be an A&E Staff Writer, but I was contacted to interview for a Photo Editor position. I am so glad they reached out because the Argo and Photo section in particular became some of the most special things in the world to me. I now have dreams of becoming a journalist.

The Argo has given me so much. I’ve learned new things, captured moments I’ll never forget, talked to people I would never have talked to and made friendships that I will always treasure. Production week in 016 is honestly my favorite place on earth. I love yelling across the room when I finish editing something and stealing the EiCs’ chairs when they’re out of the room. I love late-night dinners in the dining hall and waking up at five in the morning to deliver carnations to the entire BLS building. The thing I will miss more than anything, however, is forcing everyone to dance and spin with me because there are such talented dancers in the Argo! 

The best part of it all, of course, is the people. First to the now college freshmen, thank you for inspiring me and showing me what’s ahead of me. To Alanna, thanks for being my Argo show choir buddy and for all of the brownies. To Emma, thank you for doing the Tango with me and for always being so supportive. To Aidan, thank you for the rides and late-night chats.

To my fellow seniors, I can’t believe we did it and I am proud of this organization because of each and every one of you. To Selizabina, thank you for being the most hard-working and talented EiCs I could ever ask for. You both hold a very special place in my heart. To Caitlin and Eliza, you are my favorite A&E members and Production Week is always more fun with you. 

And to the juniors and the rest of the new Argo board, good luck and I have the utmost faith in you all. Joanna and Jenny, you are powerhouses and I cannot wait to see what you have in store. To all my Layout babies, Aidan, Lily and Mari, thank you for putting up with all my dancing antics and always being a friendly face in the halls. I’ve loved getting to know you all even if you are underclassmen (haha).

Last, but certainly not least, to the Photo section: I love you guys. Regina, you are one of my biggest supporters and I don’t know how I did it without you this year. Karen, you were the best fellow editor and I’ve come to love how well we balance each other out. To Alex, thanks for being my fellow photographer-in-crime and for all of the memories. To Andrew, I am so incredibly proud of how far you’ve come and I can’t wait to see what you do next. To Alicia, Lauren and Parker, I’m so glad to be passing it on to you.

I love this organization to death; I hope one day to cite it as the beginning of my career.

Mary out.

Karen Dong

Photo Editor

The first time I entered the Computer Lab for Production Week was for Layout in seventh grade. My older friends had told me to join the Argo, specifically Layout, because they were a part of Layout, and they thought I would enjoy it, so I joined Layout. I stayed there for a few issues, fascinated by all things InDesign until I decided to expand my Adobe field of knowledge, which was when I fell in love with Photoshop. I bought a camera the summer after eighth grade and joined the Photo section in freshman year. I was promoted to Assistant Editor for sophomore year, and since then it’s been an honor seeing everyone around me grow.

To my fellow Photo editors, Mary and Alex: you’ve made the Photo section an absolute pleasure to be a part of. From cutting down captions to dancing together at 9:00 P.M., Production Weeks have always been the days I look forward to the most, not in small part due to you and the other editors. Mary: I’ll forever hold those musical days in my mind when I think of you. I know Argo won’t be able to find as good a Theatre-Argo ambassador as you and wish them all the best. Alex: thank you for all those Starbucks runs and event photos. I hope you’ll continue to pursue photography in college because you are amazing at it, and make sure to share all the pretty photos at UVM with me! As both of you go on to do bigger and greater things, I’ll be cheering you on at every moment. I’ll miss you both so much as we all go off to different states.

To the photo associates of this year and years past: thank you for joining Photo! I appreciate each and every single one of you, and I hope to continue seeing your names in the Photo Associates list or maybe even as Photo Editors in the future.

To Liz: I’ll miss your insistence of never playing playlists on shuffle and all the fun times in Latin together. I loved running the Latin V Instagram with you, singing in Gospel Choir on Tuesdays and reacting to everyone’s BeReals. To Selina: make sure to take care of yourself! Maybe I will end up recording videos of me editing photos just for you, so that you take a break every once in a while.

To all the editors and writers and associates: thank you for all your hard work in producing issues of the Argo. I love you all so much, especially those in the Production sections.

To Joanna and Jenny: congratulations on being elected to Editors-in-Chief. I can’t wait to see how the Argo improves and flourishes under your guidance.

To Andrew: good luck leading the Photo section next year. I, having known you since you were a little fourth grader, have full faith in you to continue the Photo section’s legacy of being fun and hopefully productive. I remember going to your — tenth? — birthday party, and seeing you grow and become who you are today has been a privilege and an honor.

To Alicia and Parker: I look forward to seeing what you achieve. Seeing both of you at the Production Weeks this year, full of passion and determination, has been amazing, and I just know that you’ll succeed in your new positions.

To Lauren, my dearest and only sister, I’ll just say whatever I want to say to you when I see you at home.

Thank you all for these amazing years, take care of yourself, and I’ll be sure to visit in the future! 🙂

Alex Strand

Assistant Photo Editor

My love of the Argo and everyone in it spans longer than Aidan Chen’s legendary 2022 farewell; however, I’ll try to keep it brief. Ever since I stumbled into 016 as a confused sixie…just kidding. I only joined Argo last year. 

Over these past two years, I have laughed, cried and learned more about myself than I ever expected to — all in a basement room full of nerdy BLS students. I don’t even remember why I decided to join Photo in the first place — it was probably because Mary peer-pressured me. So thanks for that, Mary. By the spring of my junior year, I was armed with a camera at nearly every BLS event, and since then I’ve expanded my love of photography inside and outside of our building.

To Karen: thank you for being the literal glue of the Photo section (and the only one who knows how Photoshop works). You impress me with your composure and kindness every day and perfectly balance out the rest of our chaos. To Andrew: my baby. My child. Do NOT let me down next year. Keep up the hard work with your super fancy camera, you have such a bright photography year ahead. Thanks for listening to my slightly insane rants this winter, and please try your best to have a better senior year than I did.

I also can’t say goodbye to only the Photo section. To News and A&E, whom I wrote for a bit too often, thank you. I’ll never forget the first article I wrote with Ailin (or more like the article that Ailin wrote with me blindly following), or the pleasure I had writing with Caitlin about the MFA photo exhibit. I know that you both, and every other staff writer and editor, will go so far in the future. 

Finally, and most importantly, farewell to the crossword. My pride and joy. 225 little squares of pure exhilaration. Thank you to Kyler (our ghostwriter) and Caitlin for basically writing the whole thing. Those Sunday mornings of bagels, PS gourmet and weird wordplay jokes were the highlights of my weekends. Maybe one day, the New York Times will stop ghosting us (seniors — check with any of us for a special senior crossword). Joanna and those who choose to join her … keep practicing!! One day, you will achieve crossword wizardry that rivals Kyler and Caitlin’s.  

To all my little beachy future seniors (Mari, Lily, Joanna, Andrew, Jessie, Jenny, Alicia, and more) — keep up the hard work, you are all the most driven people I know. Please don’t completely abandon the crossword. Please stay tuned on my Instagram for Google Photos links.

Adios Argo, don’t use ChatGPT for articles AND JOIN PHOTO.