Winter Term can be extremely stressful for Choaties with its frigid weather, crazy sports’ schedules and final exams. The John Joseph Activity center, also known as the SAC, remains a place for students to unwind and chill. “All of the activities enhance the quality of student life at Choate, which is what we are all about,” commented Mr. James Yanelli, Student Activities Coordinator.

Between weekly dances and rooter busses, there is never a dull moment at the SAC. New and exciting events planned include a HALO overnight, Super Bowl Sunday, which will be celebrated with the unveiling for two new 42-inch flat screen TVs and a Build-a-Bear Workshop. The Green Cup Challenge is supported by the SAC, which will be handing out fluorescent bulbs to all students. With their help, the Choate community will be able to save energy as well as beat Deerfield!

First Hurrah is an exciting aspect of Winter Term for 5th and 6th formers. “The plans are really coming together,” commented Laura Reid ‘07, a member of COSA. “Also, I’m sure there will be a few exciting surprises.” The dance is to take place on February 10, 2006, in the Hill House. The SAC is also working on the Senior- Faculty Auction and senior sledding night. In addition, an open mic night is also in the works.

The SAC loves supporting clubs, and will continue to run club-sponsored dances and movie. The World Camps club, a new addition to the Choate community, will be holding a benefit in the Winter Exercise building after Long Weekend. Also, the ASEAN Club, Alliance of South Eastern Asian Nations, will be bringing a diplomat from Singapore to speak at Choate. The SAC encourages form activities, and will be working with Student Council representatives and form deans to coordinate more of them.

Off-campus activities, such as skiing-snowboarding trips and mall excursions, will continue to provide Choaties with quick escapes, bringing them back to campus refreshed. The Eat About trips will be back by popular demand in Middletown, where one can find Italian restaurants and Tibetan cuisine, as well as New Haven. “The change of scenery, even for one night, makes my time spent on campus so much more enjoyable,” gushes Jack Fallon ’08, veteran of the New Haven Eat About.

Questions about any of these activities can be directed toward Mr. Yanelli or Mr. Bielizna at the SAC, or through the weekly SAC info-email received by all Choate students, something added just this year. Also, students are welcome to attend COSA, meetings are at 6:30, on Sundays in the Humanities Rotunda. Students are encouraged to bring suggestions and new ideas!