The Charger Rag Spring 2011

Fashion tips for your body type

Quiz: Which Jersey Shore

character are you?

Four students who stand out at AHS

A publication of Agoura High School Journalism

Eligible bachelors from every grade

Letter from the Editor After a two-year hiatus, the Charger Rag is back and better than ever. When deciding what to place in the magazine this year, I wanted to make sure I included something that every single person on this cam-pus could enjoy. There are many different types of articles in this issue ranging from fashion spreads to features on cool cars on campus. I wanted to utilize the many talented students we have on this campus, so all of the models, photographers, and writers come from right here at Agoura High School. For the center feature, the Journalism class decided to highlight several students who we believed de-served attention. Their stories of overcoming struggles really touched me, and I know that they will touch you as well. We have so many amazing students here at AHS, and these are just a few. As a senior, I wanted to leave here knowing that I produced a magazine that students of all different types could enjoy. After three years in the Journalism class, I am proud that this magazine is my last mark on this campus. I have always loved magazines and hope that my love and passion came out in this issue of the Charger Rag. I would like to thank everyone who made this magazine possible: To my Assistant Editors, Bailey Byers and Matt Spector, I truly could not have done it without you; to my Managing Editor, Alex Bhattacharya, thank you for the support; to all of the photographers who spent their own personal time taking photographs, and to all of my staff writers who spent countless hours getting interviews and writing stories, your hard work is now here for all to see. Lastly, thank you to Mrs. Hollister, who has guided me the last three years and who I will miss dearly.

Photographers Sarit Rathbone Zoe Montana Hoetzel Sebastian PlatnerKelsey Wisdom

Staff Writers Melanie AbramoffJackie Adelsberg Lior Ayalon Chris Berman Aya Diaz James Olson Katie Persons Byron Rackow Beth Maiman Journalism Advisor: Lorelei Hollister

Emily Weisz

MagazineEditors

Matt Spector(Assistant Magazine Editor)

Bailey Byers(Assistant Magazine Editor)

Emily Weisz(Magazine Editor)

Alex Bhattacharya (Journalism Managing Editor)

(from left to right)

The Charger Rag is a publication of Agoura High School, 28545 Driver Ave., Agoura Hills, CA 91301. Correspondance may be sent to AHSJournalism@lvusd.org. Viewpoints expressed in this publication are not necessarily the views of the Las Virgenes Unified School District or School Board, Agoura High School Administration, Faculty, or Staff.

6-7 FashionTop Picks

for Summer

10 HealthRecipes and Workout Tips

16 In the SpotlightSpecial Education

Program

14-15 CenterFour students who stand out at AHS

Table of Contents

26 FeaturesThe Bachelors of

Agoura

21 ArtTop Artists on

Campus

24 Hidden GemsCool Cars

18 GamingXbox vs. Playstation

Cover and Center photos by Sebastian Platner

Whenever I go to the gym, there’s always going to be “that guy,”also known as Gym Guy. He’s pretty easy to recognize, because you can hear him screaming like he’s giving birth as he bench presses every single weight in the gym. He’s the guy that strolls in wearing youth-sized clothing so the rest of the world can ogle his muscles, because they somehow already don’t look big enough. I get the whole tight clothes thing, but you gotta draw the line somewhere, and when it looks like a grown man is wearing clothes that he stole from a fourth grader, he might want to consider going up a couple sizes. After giving the person at the front desk a stern head nod-fist bump combo, Gym Guy proceeds to put on his iPod and walk a couple laps around the gym, just to make sure the rest of the customers know he’s present. You would think that if one were to become the largest person in the history of mankind, they would at the least put a finger on a weight within the first 30 minutes of arriving to the gym. However, this rule does not apply to Gym Guy. During this time, he’ll dole out a couple finger shooters to the people that he knows, and occasionally personally train someone that never asked him to for a couple reps until he loses interest. But no matter what he does, eye contact is a strict no-no for Gym Guy, largely due to the fact that he’s wearing sunglasses inside. While I don’t know how sensitive his eyes are, I find it hard to believe they cannot tolerate a couple ceiling lights. If he really needs the glasses, I would be willing to work out by candlelight for the sake of the all-powerful Gym Guy. Then the magic happens, as Gym Guy actually starts to do something related to exercise. He starts with stretches that don’t actually stretch anything, but that make his muscles look even larger than before. After these, he chooses any random machine, puts it on the bottom weight, and then the grunting ensues. After doing a grand total of two to four repetitions, Gym Guy drops the weights on the floor, letting everyone know he’s done, as the sound echoes throughout the gym. Then he leaves. I don’t know how he is as big as he is, (most likely due to some concoction of steroids and every single muscle supplement in the world), but who’s going to say anything, the guy’s massive. All I can do is shake my head and pray that Gym Guy doesn’t stare me down while limbering up his gluteus maximus.

Don’t be

“That Guy” satire 4

by Alex Bhattacharyaphoto by Bailey Byers

1. What is your ideal place to be all day… everyday?

A. My bed sleeping the night offB. In da club, on the turn tables, spinning my beatsC. At the gym, pumping ironD. At home with mommy and the famE. The beach, boardwalk, or boxing ring

2. What would be your favorite job?

A. Veterinary technicianB. Disc JockeyC. Assistant manager at a fitness centerD. Helping with the family businessE Graphic designer or club promoter

3. What is your favorite food?

A. PicklesB. Muscle MilkC. Steak and BBQD. Mom’s home cookingE. Whatever is made for me

4. What is your typical day like?

A. Sleeping till 3, then dancing in the streetsB. Working on my hair and mixing my beatsC. GTL (gym, tan, laundry)D. Talking to mommy on the phoneE. Being a “maneater”

5. What is the amount of hair gel / hair spray you use?

A. About a canB. At least the whole bottle, I got to look freshC. I like spray tan moreD. I am more into hair dyeE. I do not need the extra products

quiz 5WhatJersey Shore

are you?

6. How tan are you?

A. Naturally TanB. Very tanC. Golden BabyD. Wonder BreadE. Average

8. What is the hardest part about living with you?

A. I am messyB. I listen to loads of musicC. I bring lots of people overD. I hog the phone calling my familyE. I am moody

9. What is your motto?

A. All you need is loveB. Go with the flowC. Don’t hate the player; hate the gameD. Respect your motherE. Girls just wanna have fun

character Whether you love them or hate them…there is no doubt that the MTV reality show Jersey Shore, has stirred up controversy. Take the quiz to find your inner Italian American, or should we say "Guido/Guidette”.

Snooki Pauly D Mike “The Situation” Vinny J-WOW

“That Guy”

by Alex Bhattacharyaphoto by Bailey Byers

7. When you go to the gym, what do you focus on?

A. The guys working out B. The arms C. The abs D. The pecks E. The sauna

Looks and Products for SummerMust Have

Beachwear

Going Out

Casual

Beauty

Coral-colored, bandeau bathing suit, $40; Victoria’s Secret

Ruffle, indah shorts, $33; Planet Blue

Dark, gold rimmed, Ray Ban Aviators, $189; Ray-Ban.com

Cropped, BDG tank top, $11.99; Urban Outfitters

Beige, Maxi dress, $200; Planet Blue

Beaded, razor back tank top,

$35; Urban Outfitters

Triple stone ring, $28; Free

People

Snake skin sandal, $195; toryburch.com

Skinny, Hudson denim, $179;

Hudsonjeans.com

Moisture and shimmer, SPF 4, $2.49; Rite Aid

Brown, Lorac Trio Eyeshadow, $26;

Sephora

Waterproof, black, Too Faced Lash Injection, $21;

Sephora

Leave-in condi-tioner, It’s A 10,

$17; Kanan Beauty Supply

Styled by: Bailey ByersPhotos by: Sebastian Platner

Female Fashion

Patchy, Hobo Bag,

$20; Venice Beach

Indian-style, beaded flip flops, $39.99; Journeys

Mulit-wrap, beaded

bracelet, $12; Nordstrom

Must Have

Tessa and Taylor show off their summer look

6

Casual

Beauty

Looks and Products for SummerMust Have

Active Casual

ProductsGoing Out

Nike Gray running shoes, $100; Foot Locker

RVCA, trucker hat, $20;

Beachworks

Rainbow, Billibong Board Shorts, $59.50;

Beachworks

Plain, white v-neck, $14; Urban Outfitters

Dark grey, cargo shorts, $30; Foot

Locker

RVCA, white tank top, $31.99;

Beachworks

Dark brown, leather Rainbow flip flops, $46.99; Journeys

Adidas fitted Laker hat,

$25.95; per-fumeandcolog-

neguides.com

Black and grey striped t-shirt,

$34.99; Active

White, lace-up Vans, $41.99; Journeys

Solid black, Krew watch,

$49; Metropark

Grey faded, Boot-Cut Denim, $39.50; Pacsun

photo by

photo bymentholatum.com

Moisture inducing, SPF 4, $2.49; Rite Aid

Non-prescription, powerful acne fighting facial

pads and wash, $5.79; Rite Aid

Light Musk with citrus tones,

Versace Blue Jeans, $32; perfumeandco-

logneguides.com

peachcharm.blogspot.comphoto by

photo byshoesopia.com

perfumeandcologneguides.com

Chestnut, Lamo Sheepskin Slippers, $54; shoesopia.com

Styled by: Bailey ByersPhotos by: Sebastian Planter

Male Fashion

fashion 7

Kevin and Logan model the latest beach attire

Spring Looks for Less

Fashion Tips & Upcoming Trends:

This spring and summer is all about flowy, lacy, nautical, and crochet tops. Since there are so many new stylish trends to choose from, try to find the one that best fits your body and that you enjoy the most. Try pairing a boxy top with slender jeans, shorts, or leggings. Another good option is to wear a cute sundress with some chunky jewelry and wedges. You can certainly add your own style to your outfits by in-cluding fun summer and spring accessories such as sunglasses, bow headbands, and floppy hats. As it gets warmer, try wearing lace tank tops or crochet tops with back detailing. If you are new to being on a budget, find that style that you love from a pricey store and use it as inspiration. It is easy to find something similar at a more reasonable store, such as Charlotte Russe. You will be surprised at how good you can look, even on a tight budget. The most important thing to keep in mind while shopping, or while styling an outfit, is to cover all the bases: comfort, style, and individuality!

Beach days are a must in the summer time heat, so try a cute cropped crochet top with white shorts. You can always wear a colorful bathing suit underneath this look.

Who says lace always has to be sweet? Show off your dark side with black lace, or a more serious side with a lacy blazer. Lace is fashionable this season no matter how you wear it.

Off to a job interview? When try-ing to look professional, wear a tan trench coat to cover up, but also keep a stylish flare. You also have to consider being proportionate, so pair the coat with black leggings and show off a little leg with some dark strappy heels.

Out on a summer vacation? Pair a colorful cardigan or blazer with neutral colored shorts and a floppy hat and sunglasses to shade the sun.

Nautical

Getting ready for a summer picnic? Try wearing a cute sundress. Floral prints are on the rise, so find a dress with patterns of your favorite, colorful flower.

Sundress Maxi Dress

If you are going to the mall or just hanging with friends by the pool, you can wear a long, maxi dress with front detailing. A flower head band or some bangle bracelets are always good additions to the dress.

CrochetLace Professional

Photographed Clothes courtesy of:

Styled by: Melanie AbramoffPhotographs by: Zoe Montana Hoetzel

Charlotte Russe

fashion 8

Petite

Tip: Tank tops always accentuate a small waist.

Look for tops with front or back detailing

and avoid leggings.

Fashion For Your Body TypeDifferent shapes deserve different styles

Athletic

Tip: To show off your fit physique,

wear a cute, lacy sundress, or try pairing a flowy, long

shirt with black leggings.

Tall & Thin

Tip: A taller frame can

allow you to pull off long dresses and ankle-length skirts, which are ideal for the summer. Avoid heels.

Curvy

Tip: V-neck T-shirts are perfect tops for a curvy

body type, or try wearing a flowy shirt over a tight pencil skirt. Avoid tights.

Styled by: Melanie AbramoffPhotographs by: Sarit Rathbone and Zoe Montana Hoetzel

fashion 9

Healthy Recipe and Workout Tips for SummerAny level chef can easily prepare these

three healthy recipesExercise to get in shape for the

summer months

by Emily WeiszExcercise Photos by Zoe Montana Hoetzel

Abs

To get your abs flat and tight for summer, lay on your back, and bring your right arm diagonally across your body towards your left leg. Alternate motion for 15 to 20 repetitions, keeping your abs tight.

Arms

Make your arms look great in any tank top during the upcoming summer months by doing simple push-ups. Depending on your level, do 10 to 15 push-ups at a time.

To get toned-looking legs, stand with your arms raised and bend your legs slightly. In order to really feel the burn, stand in this position for at least one minute. If done right, your arms should get a workout as well.

Legs

For all exercises above, do 5 to 10 sets depending on fitness level.

Parfait

Ingredients:2 cups of plain yogurt, 2 cups of your favorite granola, 2 cups of fresh berries, and 4 tablespoons of honeyDirections:Layer 2 tablespoons of yogurt, 2 tablespoons of granola, and 2 tablespoons of fruit into a glass

Mediterranean Pasta Salad

Ingredients: 16 oz. pasta, 12 black olives, 16 oz. canned tomatoes, small red onion, 1/4 cup parsley, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheeseDirections:Cook pasta as directed on package, rinse and drain. Add all remaining ingredients. Mix and toss.

Candied Walnut Salad

Ingredients:

1/2 cup candied walnuts, 3 cups mixed greens, 1/2 cup crumbled gorgonzola cheese, 1 tablespoon vinaigretteDirections:Place the mixed greens, cranberries, cheese, vinaigrette, vinegar, and olive oil in a large salad bowl. Toss gently; add candied walnuts, and toss again.

photos coutesy of allrecipes.com

fashion 10

Photos and recipes by allrecipes.com

Healthy Recipe and Workout Tips for Summersatire 11

They cheer on their favorite sports team!

Mr. Beaton is a proud Bostonian and lives to cheer on the Red Sox and Patriots.

They fight with their best friend!

They read Twilight!

Like most of the female students at AHS, Mrs. Donoho can’t resist reading the juicy pages of Twilight.

Even Mr. Scifres and Mr. Shipley disagree about things some-times

satire

Teachers:

They’re

just like

us!

They text during class!!

Ms. Quinlan sneaks a text in before her class starts.

They fight with their best friends!

They hang out at nutrition!

Even Mr. Scifres and Mr. Shipley can get into a fight, refusing to talk to each other.

Arm wrestling and hanging out is common in the teacher’s lounge

satire 11

With a Chinese baby in her arms, a foster mother walked into our hotel room in Beijing, China. She held my baby sister, the sister I would come to know as Leili. Encased in ten layers of clothing, Leili was handed over to my four year-old self. I’d like to say that she lovingly wrapped her arms around my neck, craving the warmth of another human body, but that wasn’t the case. Instead, with a giggle, she whacked me across the face with a plastic hammer. Being the kind older brother that I am, I interpreted it as a sign of love. All sarcasm aside, I was beginning to enjoy being an older brother despite the crude gesture of love I received. It wasn’t all fun and games in China, however. After a 15-hour flight, lots of paperwork, and two weeks of nothing but Powerbars and constant constipation, my parents and I finally got the chance to meet the newest addition to our family. The simple thought of me being a big brother was tough to get used to. Having an adopted family member appear suddenly in a four-year-old’s life is quite the unusual experience.

Once back at home, my family and my lifestyle drastically changed. Not everything was about me anymore, but this had its benefits. Now I had someone to blame for the mess in the kitchen. As Leili grew older, she began to question how, exactly, she ended up with a white California family like ours. She wondered why she looked so different from the majority of the people around her. At first, it was tough for her to grasp the fact that her family was not related to her by blood. At an early age, Leili had to understand that her birth mother was halfway around the world in a city she never grew up in. However, given her strong-minded personality, she was able to do this with ease. She accepted her situation so well that she said, “I’m the only person in my school to have three mommies: my birth mommy, my foster mommy, and my real mommy.” Over the years, she found her talent, which later on, became her passion. When she was six, she danced with a Chinese dance company. At age eight, she was introduced to the California Dance Theatre in Agoura

Hills. Their Pacific Festival Ballet Company is the resident ballet company of the Civic Arts Plaza and she has been dancing there for three years and counting. Her signature dance combines Chinese contemporary fan dance with her classical ballet training. She believes that, “Beautiful dancing is being able to combine my two cultures together: my Chinese culture and my American culture.” This is how she stays in touch with her true heritage. She never wants to feel disconnected from who she really is. What makes me so proud of Leili is how she never looks at anybody else as superior or inferior to her. She views herself as Chinese, but also as a proud American, and considers herself equal to everyone around her. Her strong mind and enthusiasm towards everything has gotten her far and will continue to lead her forward as she progresses though life. “I’m proud to be Chinese and I’m proud to live in America. I fit right in and I feel right at home. I wouldn’t change anything about my life.”

photos and story by Byron Rackow

Adoption: A journey to my sister Leili

feature 13

Overcoming Struggles: The personal journeys of four unique students at AHS

Just imagine having to witness a tragedy. To not only have to go through a traumatic experience but to have to see it up close and personal as well. On October 12, 2010, for sophomore Caitlyn Graffious, this scenario became a reality when she saw her own home go up in flames.

Graffious was at track practice on the AHS field when she looked across the street and saw the home she had lived in for most of her life literally burn from the roof down. Luckily, no one was physically hurt in the fire, but the effects of its damage, both physically and psychologically, were significant. Immediately after the fire, Graffious, her three siblings, mother, father, dog, and hamster moved into a single hotel room and eventually, the family moved into a rental home in Agoura Hills. In the weeks following the fire, Graffious said she tried to keep a strong face in the midst of the chaos, but after a while she started to feel the lasting effects of the tragedy. The Graffious house is currently in the process of being rebuilt. Since the fire, Graffious has tried to carry on with her activities and is trying her best to lead a normal life. She is involved in Track and Field at school and makes as many practices as she possibly can. Graffious has looked at this entire experience as a chance to learn. Graffious said, “If you go through something difficult like this you automatically look at what you have lost, but most importantly look at what you can learn.”

Caitlyn Graffious Ryan Moorman A typical day for junior Ryan Moorman is a busy one. From sunrise to sunset, Moorman can be seen rushing from photograhing Every Fifteen Minutes to attending California YMCA board meetings. On a seemingly normal day, tragedy hit when Moorman got a phone call that would change his life forever. In the summer of 2009, while Moorman’s sister was traveling in Italy, the unthinkable happened. Moorman said, “The grandfather of the girl she was with had a problem with his heart while driving, and they got into a car crash, and she died.” Moorman was at a Boy Scout store with his father when he heard the news, and said that he did not know how to react. His anger and confusion caused him to run around the store and smack things off shelves. Since then, Moorman has been coping with the tragedy in his own way. He says that the way he deals with things is that he moves forward and tries to stay busy. Moorman has been involved in Youth and Government for three years. This year Moorman ran for Governor and made it to the top two in the state. Moorman lost by just one vote. Subsequently, Moorman was chosen to be a Delegate on National Affairs which

involves him in matters around the United States. Despite facing great tragedy, Moorman has gone on with his life and succeeded in many ways. Who knows what the future holds for Moorman? Maybe we will see him one day in an election on a much larger scale.

14

Overcoming Struggles: The personal journeys of four unique students at AHSJennifer Miguel

Growing up in New Orleans, Jennifer Miguel lived a relatively peaceful life. But, in the early hours of Saturday, August 27, 2005, when Miguel was 11, her life changed forever. Miguel and her family fled their home after hearing warnings of a hurricane. On Monday, August 29, Hurricane

Katrina hit New Orleans, leaving total destruction. Miguel said, “Hurricanes are not that big of a deal down there. When someone says there is a hurricane, you tape up your windows and stay in.” In a rush to leave the area, Miguel and her family packed up what they could fit into their car and left for Texas, where they helplessly watched the devastation on the news. Her family then made the decision to send Miguel, her mother, and two brothers to Agoura Hills to live with Miguel’s aunt. Miguel did not go back to New Orleans until a year and a half after the hurricane. When she visited her home it did not look the same. The six feet of water damage done by the hurricane had destroyed the inside. Since the hurricane, Miguel’s house in New Orleans is almost complete. When Miguel graduates from high school, her mother plans on moving back to New Orleans. Miguel is involved in many activities on campus including Link Crew and Track and Field. After losing virtually everything, Miguel’s optimism and appreciation for life are admirable. Miguel said, “Make sure to cherish everything, it can all be gone in a second.”

Alexandria Simon As the bell rings to go to lunch, the hallways become crowded with students from every grade, rushing to make sure to beat the lunch traffic. They take for granted that they can navigate their way freely through the crowded campus. For sophomore Alexandia Simon, making her way through campus is not so simple, because Simon was born with Cerebral Palsy in all four limbs. If you have seen Simon around campus, you have probably also seen her dog, Tacoma. “I have had Tacoma for about six years. She can switch on lights if they are low enough, or open a drawer if it has a tug rope.” Simon said she tries to make the best of her disability, but there are times when it does hold her back. “Last year in physical education I could not do many of the activities.” But, Simon is heavily involved in the theater program here at AHS where she has been in three plays and plans on being in many more. Simon has acted in Don’t Drink the Water, A Chorus Line, and

You Can’t take it With You. She also likes to horseback ride in her free time! Simon said that she feels as if she has the life of a normal teenager. “I have learned to never give up and to always look at the bright side.” Simon has never let her disability hold her back, something we can all learn from.

by Emily Weiszphotos by Sebastian Platner

center 15

An inside look at the Special Ed program at AHS According to The Educational Research Center, “The nation’s public school systems collectively educate more than 6 million students with disabilities, about nine percent of the school-age population. Nearly one-third of those disabled students are of traditional high school age.” Here at Agoura High School and within the Las Virgenes Unified School District, we offer these services to students with all different types of needs and, without a doubt, our Special Education Program teaches its students the skills needed to be successful individuals in life. But, what many students may not know, is that our Special Education program is well-known for this. Families have traveled across the country, have relocated jobs and homes, just to enroll their children at AHS, just for the special education program. Why is our special education program so notable? Is it because of an educated district, a supportive administration, a strong leader with a hard-working staff, or support from the student body? Kristen Marsilio, Special Education Department Chair and Special Education history teacher, said she believes these are all factors that tie into the success of our program. “We have people at the district level

with classroom experience, who have really been there. Here at Agoura High School, we have an amazing staff, not just in Special Education, but all of the staff is willing to work with the Special Ed teachers. The Special Ed families are supportive, and the counselors are great with helping kids with scheduling. I believe when parents contact us they can see that we are a team, that we collaborate, and we work well together. We will follow through with an IEP plan”, said Marsilio. IEP stands for Individualized Education Plan, which guides a student’s academic program. The Special Education program serves students with a range of disabilities, but the general goal is the same for them all. “The goal of the Special Education program is to provide students with the education they are supposed to receive, while meeting the curriculum of state standards, while also trying to meet their individual needs. We make sure we do our best to have them pass the California High School Exit Exam and earn their diploma and help them with plans for the future, whether it be college, trade school, or a job, ”said Marsilio. Special Education students have the same requirements as any other student in the Las Virgenes

Unified School District. They must pass the high school exit exam, take the required four years of English, and take the 230 credits to graduate. A majority of the special education students at AHS finish within the four years, even though the law allows students to receive public education until the age of 22. The special education program at AHS consists of 11 teachers, 25 aides, two school psychologists, a behaviorist, various service providers that work for the district who come to school to provide help to students, along with the general staff, counselors, and administration. To directly teach Special Education students, staff members must have their teaching credential in Special Education. “Our student body is amazing in including all the students, whether it is eating with them at lunch, engaging with them at sporting events or at dances…our student body is amazing at picking up on the differences of students and looking past them. Our student body doesn’t bully or pick on our students and the community has volunteer outreach programs that many students are involved in. I think this truly does say a lot about Agoura High School,”said Marsilio.by Beth Maiman

feature 16

On January 14, 2011, Matthew Mezza, a freshman at Santa Monica High School, abruptly fled his baseball practice and jumped to his death from the tenth story of a hotel building as his teammates watched on in horror. In the media reports of his death, those who had known him were understandably shocked and devastated. One of his classmates was quoted as having said that he had seen Mezza the very day of the tragic incident and that Mezza had “seemed fine” (Daily Press). The rabbi at the synagogue that Mezza attended since childhood said “He was certainly not the kind of person you would expect to have these feelings […] Something went horribly, horribly wrong” (LA Times). It’s commonly assumed that anyone who is suicidal, or even just depressed, will show obvious warning signs. Since Mezza was a generally happy kid, his suicide was just an isolated instance of an impulsive young adolescent who just randomly decided to kill himself, right? The terrible truth is that most times it’s hard to tell if someone needs help. And most of the time, they’re not going to ask for it, no matter how desperate. Most of us don’t wear our sadness like a big neon sign. Instead, we push our pain deep within and try to cope with everyday life. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that suicide is the third leading cause of death for youth ages 15-24. According to the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL), 19.3% of high school

students have seriously considered taking their own lives. According to this statistic, if there are approximately 2000 students attending Agoura High School, about 386 of them have seriously considering killing themselves. AHS has been no stranger to loss. Was there something that could have been done to prevent such heartache? It might seem like there’s nothing we can do. However, I refuse to passively accept the degeneration of my generation. I refuse to blame our anger on our parents and our insecurities on the media. I refuse to watch the news and not be shocked when I hear about yet another suicide or school shooting. I refuse to believe that we’re all just too damaged beyond repair. I can and I will do something to impede the increasing nature of tragic events involving my peers. The question is, what can I actually do to make a difference? There is really no easy answer to that. I’d like to believe that I can just go out and buy a t-shirt and make the whole situation better. But I know that’s not reality. I have to be proactive in making the world a better place. I devote a few minutes each day to letting my friends and family know that I care for them deeply and that they make my world a much brighter place. I believe that going out of my way to show someone else just a small bit of kindness can really make their entire day better. I try to always hold the door open for someone with an armful of heavy-looking books, or compliment someone on a new pair of shoes, or even just pass on a smile to someone who looks like

they need one. They’re not large gestures and they don’t take a lot of effort. But, I like to believe that if we all just pass on a little bit of kindness everyday, the world will indeed become a better place. Yet, I must be in the minority, for every day I see many of my classmates regarding their peers with apathy, or even worse, animosity. Why do we continue to make this world bleak and depressing with harsh words and, at times, physical violence? Is it simply because we regard those outside the realm of our closest social connections as being unworthy of our respect and compassion? In September of 2010, there was a media flurry covering what seemed to be a sudden epidemic of LGBT(lesbian gay bi-sexual, and transgender) -related teen suicides. Each case seemed almost identical: a young male adolescent was incessantly bullied regarding his actual or perceived sexual orientation, until feelings of isolation drove the boy to the point of suicide. These boys’ peers were actually going out of their way to make them absolutely miserable for no reason. Perhaps for a moment, putting down another individual’s worth and destroying their self-esteem might make one feel stronger or more powerful. But, are the consequences worth it? Small acts of kindness by each of us could unknowingly be in control of whether your peer chooses to live or die. It is important to always treat each other with compassion, respect, and dignity. By Lior Ayalon

Small acts reap large rewards Op/Ed 17

Console Wars: Xbox vs. Playstation

Vs.

The great Console War has been waging for nearly five years now. The Playstation 3 has had a rough start. The price, when first released, was $600 for their cheapest version of the system. The steep price tag, paired with few developers, made Sony’s sequel system have to really fight to stay victorious among competing video game systems. One strategy Sony had was making sure that the customer would be happy. They branched out, so that their system wasn’t just for video games. Blu-Ray and music could both be accessed on the system. At the time, Blu-Ray was competing with HD-DVDs and Sony picked right. First-party developers also stepped up to show that the Playstation 3 really was the superior of the two systems. Uncharted, God of war III, and LittleBigPlanet are just a few games that really impacted the way video games were shaped. The console’s price dropped and Sony’s profits skyrocketed. More games were being made, and Sony once again proved that they were the kings of the gaming world. However, one of the main reasons Sony’s system is superior to others is their online community. The Playstation Network has movies, retro and current games for download, and a fairly decent internet browser. However, whenever people want to play online against friends, it is free. With other video game systems, you have to buy memberships (One year is about $50). So, the Playstation 3 is an overall better experience. You get more bang for your buck and you can do a lot more on the system than you can on any other. Free internet, amazing exclusive games, and an impressive Blu-Ray player renders Playstation 3 the undisputed king of consoles.By James Olsen

If you are a male teenager born in the last 20 years, chances are you own an Xbox 360, or at least know five people that do. Microsoft’s seventh generation console, the Xbox 360, currently rivals Sony’s Play Station 3 and Nintendo’s Wii for video game supremacy. (Although come on, nobody over 10 really cares about the Nintendo Wii anyways). Unlike the Playstation 3, which carries a steep price tag of at least $400, Microsoft’s Xbox 360 can be purchased for $300. Recently, Microsoft released a newer version of the Xbox 360, featuring a quieter, sleeker console, as well as a 250 GB memory hard drive and built in Wi-Fi. Although Xbox’s have featured a variety of hardware issues, Xbox 360 currently features the largest array of games, 679 to date. Some of the most popular Xbox exclusive video games include Gears of War, Halo, Saints Row, and Crackdown. Xbox 360 revolutionized online gaming with Xbox live. Now, if you do not already know what Xbox Live is (noob), it is an online gaming system that wirelessly connects you with players from all around the globe truly allowing gamers to take their “Pwnage” worldwide. For around $50 dollars a year, Xbox Live not only allows for wireless gaming, but allows for internet access as well. Xbox 360 does everything the Playstation 3 can and more. The Xbox 360 changed the standard in which consoles are made with its online gaming, variety of games, and life-like graphics. It puts Sony’s PS3 to shame, and leaves the Nintendo Wii looking like a child’s toy. It truly is the king of consoles.by Chris Berman

photos by Sebastian Platner

Op/Ed 18

The

Art

of

VIDEOGAMES

The word “art” is defined

as “the quality, production,

expression, or realm of what is

beautiful, appealing, or of more

than ordinary significance.” A

painting is an example of this

because the artist intends for

his or her work to portray a

message or theme that he or

she finds significant. A movie

is considered art because the

director intends to express an

idea or theme that is often out

of the ordinary.

My definition of art is anything

that successfully provokes any,

or all, of the human senses.

Movies and paintings are what

I would classify as a classic

art. I consider true modern art

to be any completely new form

of art that has arisen within the

last decade.

I find that the most

predominant new form is the

art of the videogame. Many

controversies exist over

whether or not the rise of

the videogame phenomenon

should be given any heed, or

considered an art form. It has

been given such harsh publicity

that people don’t bother to look

at it from a different perspective.

The settings and moods feel more

real than any computer-generated

images in movies because I, the

player, am being placed into these

environments to explore and

experience the virtual world on

my own. Instead of watching the

protagonist through the eyes of

a camera lens, I am experiencing

the story through the eyes of the

hero, and that hero is me. The

player feels the pain and fear of the

character in the story rather than

just hearing about it.

Popular videogames cater to two

types of people: people who crave

the adrenaline rush as they blow

up everything in sight, and people

who play to be enthralled in a rich,

detailed, emotional story. I am part

of the few who enjoy videogames

for the amazing scenery and

characters. I watch the leaves fall,

the debris blow in the wind, and

the distant oceans calmly rippling

between mountains. I do not regret

any of the moments in which my

fingers grasped a console controller.

It has not

c e a s e d ,

rather it has

provoked my creative ability and

opened me up to a whole new

division of modern art that I am

proud to advocate.

Videogames have tapped into

my emotions more than any other

art form. Any piece of art is meant

to be appreciated for its own

individuality. The human mind

would be very bland without any

sense of creativity. Without the

sense of artistic value, would life

be worth living?

I see amazing things in video

games and I know what moves

me. If you don’t see it, then you’re

missing out on a form of art that can

truly inspire someone if they gave

it the chance. As of right now, I

am simply the casual bystander in a

museum enjoying the beauty that it

presents. As I observe the intricate

layers of paint and careful brush

strokes, I realize that a person, like

me, created this. This gives me the

hope that, one day, I will be the

artist.

By Byron Rackow

Op/Ed 19

Many may say that the VA’z have been transformed this year. There is without a doubt a new vibe, new music, and a new continuing story line. Students this year, more than ever, get that rush of excitement as senior Daniel Houbrick announces over the intercom to turn your television to Channel 3. A brand new spin to the video announcements has been a highlight of the 2010-2011 school year. The masterminds behind the video footage after the long awaited 60 second countdown are senior David Wizer and junior Jacob Braunstein. This is their first year doing the video announcements as well as participating in ASB for both Wizer and Braunstein. “I was first inspired to get into film for the television shows. As a kid I watched a lot of television and always was interested. Through that, I felt like I could figure what I was doing and how filmmaking worked”, said Wizer. For Braunstein, the inspiration came more from the big screen. “I was always interested in special

effects in the movies. I always found them really cool.” Wizer contributes the change in this year’s VAz to a different style that they have conducted together. “Personally I never felt I was a good writer. I always wished that I could express something through visuals or actions. I feel like that is shown in the VA’z this year”, said Wizer. Wizer and Braunstein both pride themselves on the change in the VA’z this year. “In years past, I felt like not everyone could connect to them and they were for a certain sense of humor. This year we have tried to involve kids from all different grades and many teachers to make it more relatable”, said Braunstein. Although the primary goal of the VA’z is to inform the student body of events through a multimedia outlet, the new video announcement commissioners seek for an overall increased enthusiasm toward the VA’z. “We just really wanted kids to be excited about them, to want to watch them, and to look forward to the next time they aired”, said Wizer.

The video announcements are a huge commitment and both VA commissioners spend an immense amount of time outside of school working on production. “It is a long process on top of all the filming. We have to get our ideas and the skits approved. It takes a while to do”, said Braunstein. Although Wizer and Braunstein have different interests in film, Braunstein said the work that goes into the VA’z is a team effort.“It is a total collaboration.” We both have good ideas and bad ideas. We both do filming and editing. We feed off each other and are not selfish. One of us never takes the credit”, said Wizer. As the school year comes to an end, Wizer will head to college and plans to study film production. As for Braunstein, he is hoping to continue working on the VA’z next year. One can tell that both Braunstein and Wizer are extremely proud of their work and the respect the VA’z are receiving from the student body. “We are just average Joes. We just hope and believe that what we find funny, the majority of the student body will, too,” said Wizer. by Beth MaimanPhotos by Sarit Rathbone

Meet the Men Behind the CameraThe New and Improved VAz

Kevin Zelman

feature 20

Minnar Xie

Sarit Rathbone

Artists of Agoura

Dani Golub

Kevin Zelman

Cheyenne HardingMinnar Xie

Zoe Montana Hoetzel

Zoe Montana HoetzelMinnar Xie

Minnar Xie

Whether it’s photography, painting, or

sculpting, these six talented Agoura High

School students showcase their artistic

abilities.

by Matt Spector

feature 21

Agoura’s FinestAgoura’s Finest

can no longer drive more then a few

blocks without seeing a police officer,

usually just sitting and waiting for the

next traffic offender. Most people

would consider Agoura Hills a safe

city. We feature a low crime rate,

and according to cityrating.com, less

than 20% of crime in Agoura Hills

involves violence; the rest: property

damage such as thefts, robberies, and

the occasional marijuana possession.

My concern is that an increase

in police officers, in an area

with so little crime, means

officers are left looking for

crimes that may not exist.

Officers patrolling the streets

of Agoura Hills are faced

with little crime other than

drivers speeding or other traffic

violations. And while police

officers are necessary to prevent

the streets from turning to chaos, there

is a point when the patrolling becomes

excessive. When you can’t drive five

blocks without seeing a squad car,

police presence has gone too far, and

is more about control than protection.

As long as there is free will, it is

impossible to completely eliminate

crime, but the Agoura cops are

determined and multiplying, intent

on serving complete suburban

justice. In our little bubble of

Agoura, suddenly everyone is a

criminal, and police officers seem to

forget one major fact: that their sole

purpose and job is to protect US, the

citizens. I think most would agree

that they have succeeded thus far in

making Agoura residents feel secure.

Who can you turn to when your

fear comes from the same officers

sworn to “protect and serve”?

About a year and a half ago, I was

relaxing in my room with a fellow

AHS senior, when there was a knock

at my door and I was suddenly pulled

out of my own home by a few officers

from the Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station.

Even though my friend and I did

nothing to even hint at a threat, guns

were pulled on us and we were held at

said gunpoint on my front porch. The

officers informed me the neighbors

reported a break-in and as I tried to

explain that this was, in fact, my house,

and that I did not break in, the officers

began to search my room. What began

as a simple retrieval of my ID from

on top of my dresser resulted in an

extensive search through my drawers

and even underneath my mattress.

The Fourth Amendment of the Bill

of Rights provides, “The right of the

people to be secure in their persons,

houses, papers, and effects, against

You are all familiar with

that feeling you get, that fear

in the pit of your stomach every time

those red and blue lights roll up on

you, sirens blaring. Your hands tense

up, tightly gripping the steering wheel

as you frantically rack your brain

searching for what law you broke.

It is no secret that California is

facing an economic slump. According

to LAO.com (Legislative Analyst’s

Office) California is facing a $25.4

billion dollar deficit, a number

projected to increase over the next

few years. State officials are doing

everything in their power to combat

this debt, including a state budget plan

for 2011-2012. However, even with a

state budget plan, California is facing

its largest deficit of all time. For the

first time, it is becoming necessary for

state officials to look for alternative

sources of income, namely taxes. While

officials may not be able to win any

popularity or voters by raising citizen’s

taxes, what they can do is generate

increased revenue through raising

traffic fines. According to LATimes.

com, throughout 2010, traffic fines

were raised for almost all offenses,

with some fines nearly doubling.

I respect the difficult jobs police

officers do, not the least of which is

putting themselves in danger; but

while increasing the police force

may create jobs, it will only congest

and overflow the justice system and

our police force. In our controlled

suburban societies, it now seems we

22

Agoura’s FinestAgoura’s Finest

day as the result of nearly no crime

to focus on, and nothing else to do.

Recently, I interacted with police

officers in a more positive way after

a car hit me as I was walking off

campus after school. As I lay on the

ground, trying to ignore the ever-

growing numbness in my lower back,

and the crowd forming around me,

police officers that had treated me like

a criminal so many times before, now

treated me like a victim in need

of their help. Although I was

innocent in both situations,

their attitude towards me

this time was very different.

They were concerned about

my well-being, and for once

the officers’ questions didn’t

feel like an interrogation.

For once, police presence

was comforting, and I

don’t think it is unfair to ask for that

same respect whether I am behind

the wheel of a car or underneath it.

Teens are a target in Agoura; there

is even an entire squad specifically

dedicated to them. But with no other

crime to focus on and a majority

of laws that put minors at a severe

disadvantage, we are never going

to win. Like many teens, I have had

my fair share of brushes with the

law, but I’m not a bad person and

I’m definitely not a serious criminal.

When a police officer pulls me over,

I’m nervous enough already; there

is no reason to be hostile and make

matters worse. If I’ve done something

unreasonable searches and seizures,

shall not be violated, and no Warrants

shall issue, but upon probable cause,

supported by Oath or affirmation,

and particularly describing the place

to be searched, and the persons or

things to be seized. (Bill of Rights.)

When I answered the door to a

squad of police officers that day,

they saw me as a potential criminal.

Although I have faced a few minor

incidents with the officers of the Lost

Hills Sheriff’s Station since then, this

was my first real experience with the

law, and what stands out in my mind

is the fear I felt as I tried to figure out

what I had done wrong. It is easy for me

to blame my mistreatment on the fact

I’m a teenager. The way I look makes

me a “hoodlum” and an easy target for

police officers. However, I simply look

at my experience as an overreaction,

a simple misunderstanding. It wasn’t

the officers’ fault. Compared to the

crime they are used to, here in Agoura

Hills, a break in is about as big as it

gets. I look at the excessive, five plus

cop cars barricading my street that

wrong, I’ll pay, but officers have to

understand that kids make mistakes.

There is nothing wrong with letting

someone off with a warning. Writing a

ticket doesn’t teach any lessons other

than money buys immunity, whereas

giving mistaken or misunderstood

kids a second chance teaches them

a lesson that can change their lives.

Car searches under “reasonable

suspicion” and invading people’s

homes (even if it is for a party) exploits

laws and a citizen’s right to privacy.

Whether we like it or not, police

officers have power and can use it

at their discretion (up to a certain

point). They are trusted not to

exploit that power and to uphold

justice. However, they are quickly

becoming little other than the

government’s armed tax collectors.

American author Tom Robinson

said it best in his novel, Still Life

With Woodpecker: “Society had

a crime problem. It hired cops to

attack crime. Now society has a cop

problem.” My point is not to bash the

officers that protect us, or diminish

the work they do. It is to simply show

that officers are straying from their

intended purpose, which is simply

to protect and look out for citizens,

not turn them into targets. How am I

expected to trust police officers, when

those same officers cannot trust me?

by Chris Berman Photo by Alex Bhattacharya

Op/Ed 23

Coolars

Q: What is your favorite thing about your car?A: My favorite thing about it is the roll cage inside. It is something like NASCAR where you have to climb in through the window. Q: How did you get this car?A: My dad made a movie with Quentin Tarantino. At the end of the shooting he asked him if there was a car left if he could buy it. Quentin said “you can just have it” and we got it at the end of the movie. Q: Have you driven the car any cool places?A: We have driven the car to a lot of cool places. Some car shows, Bob’s Big Boy has a show every Friday that we have driven it to. Other than that, just everyday driving. It is fun to drive.

Kanan Hooker’s Death Proof

Q: How did you receive the car? A: I bought it off the second owner, who owned it after a mechanic.

The previous owner moved to Hawaii. Q: Where is the farthest place this car has gone?

A: I don’t know where the previous owners have driven it, but it has

200,089 miles. So it has been driven pretty far. Personally, I haven’t

driven it very far. Q: Any funny memories in this car? A: I have done a couple cool things in it. Because it is so old, it doesn’t

have really good traction, so spinning it in the rain is not very fun.

Q: Does you car have a nickname? A: We call it T.T. for now.

Julian Aichholz’s 300 CD 1985 Mercedes

Q: How did you get your car?

A:My dad sells cars, so someone came to him.

Q: Have you driven your car any cool places?

A: I just drive it around town. Sometimes to Beverly Hills

because my dad’s dealership is there.

Q: Any cool memories you have had in your car?

A: I haven’t had it very long, so not really.

Q; What is your favorite thing about your car?

A: It is actually pretty fast.

Chad Cohen’s ‘57 Bel Air Station Wagon

Houston Hooker’s 1947 Cadillac Sedan

Q: How did you get this car? A: It is my dad's car. We have been driving it since we were 15, even though we weren't suppose to. He found it in a junkyard and built the whole thing up. Q: Do you have a nickname for your car?A: Hog Nose. Q: Any cool memories you have with this car? A: Yes, my dad used to pick us up from elementary school a lot in this car. We thought it was the coolest ride we had ever seen.

Chris Janda’s 1500 Dodge Van

Q: How long have you had your car?A: I have personally had it for 2 years, but my family has owned it for about 14 years.Q: What’s your favorite and least favorite thing about your car?A: The favorite thing about my car is probably the flat-screen tv my friends and I installed about a year ago. My least favorite thing about the car is the MPG. This thing guzzles gas like no other!Q: Where is the farthest you’ve driven your car?A: The farthest place I have taken my car is Lake Tahoe. My family and I used to go twice a year.Q: What’s your car’s nickname?A: My car’s nickname is the Janda Plane!Q: What do others think of the Janda Plane?A: At first, people think that my car is weird and sketchy, but once they step inside, they fall in love with it.

by Beth Maiman and Jackie Adelsberg

feature 24

Q: How long have you been growing your facial hair?A: Well, it’s been a work in progress for the past couple of years actuallyQ: What’s your inspiration for growing a mustache?A: Most definitely Dumbledore.Q: Do you have any grooming procedures?A: I like to condition it twice a day, and then I take a comb to it. Sometimes it needs a trim because it grows so rapidly. Just gotta make sure it looks good for the ladies. Q: Do you have any advice for the future facial hair growers at AHS?A: Don’t give up. It takes time and a lot of effort. (Editor’s note: There ACTUALLY is some hair on his lip)

FACIAL HAIR FEATUREHonoring and recognizing the manliest men on Agoura High School’s campus

Maarten Shroders (‘11)

Q: How long have you been growing your facial hair?A: For this one, about a year.Q: What’s your inspiration for growing a mustache?A: I didn’t want to shave at some point, and it just kept growing out. Q: What’s your favorite facial hair to grow out?A: The goatee, because it’s better than having a full-on beard.Q: Do you have any advice for the future facial hair growers at AHS?A: Just do it. You’re going to get teased for it, but that’s part of the experience.

Q: What was your inspiration to grow it out?A: Primarily it was laziness. I hate shav-ing, and it gives me ten more minutes of sleep in the morning. Plus my wife and my kids like it. Q: What has been your favorite type of facial hair to grow out?A: I’m digging the beard. With a mus-tache I would look like a cop, and I’ve never liked a goatee. Either grow it all out, or don’t grow it at all. Q: Do you have any advice for the facial hair growers at AHS?A: It’s going to itch at first, so you’ve got to get through those first couple of weeks. Also, you have to be man enough to suck it up and realize you can’t grow a beard. It’s not your calling in life.

Mr. Resnick

2 years

2 years

Nick Lemonnier (‘11)

Q: What’s your inspiration for your beard?A: I was originally just doing the No Shave No-vember thing, but I realized I liked it and it was pretty big, so I decided to keep it. Q: What has been your favorite type of facial hair to grow out?A: Generally, the mustache is kind of weak, so I like the beard.Q: Do you have any advice for the future facial hair growers at AHS?A: Just be patient. You can’t force it.

5 months

Brian Tamsut (‘12)“ A chin without

hair deserves

no honor”- Spanish Proverb

“ The beard is part of the body and any

contact should be a

foul”-Zydrunas Ilgauskas1year

Mr. Staiano

2 weeksQ: What was your inspiration to grow it out?A: Laziness. But every once in a while I like to mix it up and have a different look. Q: You’re a master of the facial hair. What was your favorite type to grow out and have?A: Probably the Fu Manchu. That one actually took some effort. Q: Do you have any grooming procedures?A: Just keep a sharp blade. Q: Do you have any advice for the facial hair growers at AHS?A: Spread Rogaine on your face. Get a good razor and some good products to make sure your face is nice and supple.

Q: What was your inspiration to grow it out?A: I was watching Glory in 7th grade, and Robert Gould Shaw had the coolest goatee ever, and I thought if I could grow something like that, that looks that beauti-ful and that strong and powerful, then I’m going to do it. Now I’m a mini Robert Gould Shaw. Q: What’s been your favorite facial hair to grow?A: I’ve tried,without a lot of success to grow a beard, and it just looks horrible. So the only thing that looks somewhat good from my perspective is the goatee.Q: Do you have any advice for the facial hair growers at AHS?A: Get a nice comb to shape it correctly. I don’t do that, but be creative with it and have fun.

10 years

Mr. Baldwin

by Alex Bhattacharya photos by Sebastian Platner

satire 25

Kyle BischoffGrade: 10Hobbies: Reading po-etry, long walks on the sandy beach, working out near mirrorsLikes: Blonde, smart, athleticDislikes: Bad manners, clingyDeodorant: AXE Dark TemptationPick-up line: Did it hurt? When you fell from heaven?Perfect Date: Candle-lit dinner at a fancy restaurant with a violin playing

Cody BischoffGrade: 10Hobbies: Drums, playing golf on long summer days, laughing at Kyle working out in front of mirrorsLikes: Pretty eyes, Megan Fox (cough, cough), humorDislikes: Laughing too loud, too serious, not liking twins....Deodorant: Old SpicePick-up line: Do you have Cingular....? (Because you’re raising the bar)Perfect Date: In the library doing math homework

Ryan RosenheimGrade: 9Hobbies: Surfing, skatingLikes: Down to earth, hotDislikes: MaterialisticDeodorant: AxePick-up line: How much does a polar bear weigh?.......Enough to break the ice. Hello, I’m Ryan.Perfect Date: Beach

Chase CockerillGrade: 11Hobbies: Water polo, wearing a speedo, flossing, and combing my hair. Likes: Blue eyes, good smileDislikes: Control freaks, strictly salad-eatersDeodorant: Dove Secret Embrace LavenderPick-up line: Do you have a quarter? My mommy told me to call her when I fell in love. Perfect Date: A nice dinner

Bryan AdamsGrade: 12Hobbies: Surfing, skating, snowboarding, girlsLikes: Hot but modestDislikes: Stubborn and self-centeredDeodorant: Dove Ultimate Go-Fresh Pick up line: Hey, the sky is blue. Wanna make-out?Perfect Date: It could be anywhere as long as it is with the right girl

Check out the eligible bachelors around campus!

Attention Single Ladies: We have extensively researched and selected five eligible bachelors for your liking. These men are looking for love, so hurry and grab one before it is too late!

satire 26

by Matt Spectorphotos by Sebastian Platner

by Byron Rackow Deep in a forest in Scotland, a village was nestled

Where the blue birds whistled and the grizzly bears wrestled.Fragrant were the flowers and dense were the trees

The fountain grass grew up to one’s knees.The forest was pretty and the air was perfumed.

Every morning, the early-hour fog began to dwindleAnd the married women tended their yarn-spinning spindle

And the men and lads milked the cows and fed the sheepWhile the youngest daughter was still asleep.

The villagers were content and merry.As every household set these daily procedures in motion,

There was one house, however, that showed no commotion.Its windows were boarded and it was painted black

And it was rickety as though it were built not with nails but with tacks.The black house was the oldest in the village.

But the villagers paid no attention to that house,To them it was as insignificant as a mouse.

They believed it to be deserted,But one day something happened that made them all disconcerted.

For the first time, wisps of smoke billowed from the chimney of the old black house.Someone was in the black house, but who could it be?

Little did they know, the inhabitant had been there for eternity.But the villagers were unhappy and soon grew into an angry band

Because the occupant provided no aid in tending the land.Then the villagers formed a mob and besieged the old black house.

The villagers formed a circle and the house was in a surroundAnd they pried the wooden planks off the windows and threw them on the ground.

Then each one hurled sticks and stones and watched as the windows broke.Then instantly they looked up and the chimney no longer billowed any smoke.

And the hounds and collies began to howl.The angry villagers entered the home,

It was crowded and dusty with no room to roam.They could not help but take a peak,

Even though what they saw made everyone shriek.What lay there before them was the body of a man no younger than ninety.

A stone lay next to his head and blood lay strewn across the floor,But seeing as he was just an old man, the cruel, callous villagers walked right out the door.The

sun set and the hounds and collies continued to howl,All the while staring at the black house’s chimney cowl.Something in the air was different and the dogs knew it.

The next morning, the summer sun did not blaze, For the whole sky was in a haze.

And when the men went out to the farm,What they saw sent them into immediate alarm.

Something terrible had happened.The cows, the pigs, the sheep, and the goats lay dead in the mud,At the sight of this the women fainted to the ground with a thud.

The hounds and collies who had been howling the night before were silenced forever,The crops turned gray and withered to ash; there was no life in this village whatsoever.

Utter devastation swept through the village and a frigid cold wind blew the hats off their heads as they stared in disbelief.

An eternal winter was brought upon the village,Because, foolishly, the old man they pillaged.

And their narrow minds were as small as a mouseBecause they never knew their source of life came from the old black house.

The Black House poem 27

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