PRICELESS
WINTER 2014
GL Vol. 3, Issue IV
Lucas Wachs: Extreme Skier • Upstate Fashions • Zephyr Teachout • Return of Sushi • Guide to Gemstones A free journal written by young people for young-minded people •
Publisher’s Letter We hope you have been enjoying the quarterly issues of GoodLife Youth Journal. It is always exciting to present to you the awesome talent of our area’s youth. We would like to take a moment to say
THANK YOU TO OUR GENEROUS SPONSORS! GOLD J. Pekoe Teves Nick Alba Joan Reynolds Marilyn Manning MountainView Studio SILVER
Cathy & Sam Magarelli Join our growing list of local Sponsors by donating whatever you can to help support the kids in their creative endeavors! Look for our newsletter and contribute via check or PayPal.
Sushi (our canine advice columnist) needs your help! Go the the Write For Us menu item on our Website to submit your questions and comments
Upstate Diamonds
L
ike a diamond in the rough, our individuality reflects our inner brilliance. My approach in life tends to be on the rational, scientific side. Like say, for example, if I find a pretty rock (which I always do) I think of its beginning, how old it is... what natural forces it took to achieve its current form and the fact that its form will likely continue its journey of change in the future — very much like our personal evolution in life only with a much different time line. The study of geological formation is fascinating!!! Rocks come and go in my life’s journey, but a recent one stood out. One day walking along the side of a road made of crushed white gravel there was a special one just waiting to be found. It reflected the sun’s light… a flash glimmered off a shape embedded in the gravel up ahead. There, waiting to be dislodged and picked up, was a gigantic imperfect, milky clear crystal — not just another pretty rock but a crystal… a very large hexagonal shaped stone with optical reflective qualities of a raw diamond… a precious surprise gift from Mother Nature. Now, the timing is funny and very coincidental, because my son had just taken a newfound interest in studying the power and energies of crystals and making wearable jewelry out of them. He recognized it right away and told me it was called a Herkimer diamond commonly found in our area near Herkimer, New York (near Albany). He told me clear crystals help clear the mind and cleanse and heal the body. He made a necklace for me out of it. I showed a master Ch’i Kung teacher who teaches a class after my boxing class. He warned me a person should not wear more than three crystals/ stones. For me he recommended one for health, one for clarity and one for inspiration. He said more than three will start taking energy away from the person. All this was new to me, a newfound fascination for the New Year 2015 . In this issue we explore the color, meaning and powers of crystals; we interview Zephyr Teachout (a new form of polititian) and get to know extreme skier Lucas Wachs, just-in-time to inspire us all for the ski season!
ON THE COVER: Early Lucas Wachs and friend 2005 Photo by David Wachs
Spring issue coming next!
Deadline Feb. 9th. • Lyme Disease • Small houses • Alternative Energy
Page 6 • www.goodlifeyouthjournal.com
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this magazine do not reflect those of the publishers, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised.
TOC/MastheaD CONTENTS The College Transition .................................................... p. 8 SUNY Arts Program........................................................ p. 9 Politics: Zephyr Teachout........................................ p. 10-11 Advice: Ask Sushi ..................................................... p. 12-13 Upstate Fashion......................................................... p. 14-19 Cover Story: Extreme Skiing................................... p. 20-22 Restaurant Review: Yum Yum Noodle........................ p. 23 The Art of Loreal Prystaj......................................... p. 24-25 Guide to Gemstones................................................. p. 26-27 Fiction: Disregarded Opinions............................... p. 28-29 Fiction: Adventurers................................................. p. 30-31 Poetry.......................................................................... p. 32-33 Music........................................................................... p. 34-35 Teen Awareness .............................................................. p. 36
EDITORIAL
Editor-in-Chief/Publisher..................................... Cathy McNamara Art Director...............................................................Grey Ivor Morris Executive Editor..................................Monique Winum Martindale Senior Copy Editor......................................................... Julie Schmidt Contributing Editor................................................. Cassandra Hastie
SALES
Marketing & Sales Director.......................................Carolyn Handel Sales Associate................................................................. Marie Shultis.
DISTRIBUTION: 7,000 COPIES. Throughout the Hudson Valley and NYC, Published by GoodLife Publishing 20 Mountainview Avenue Woodstock, NY 12498 ONLINE VERSION: GoodLifeYouthJournal.com
SUBMISSION INFO: GoodLife accepts work done by young people aged 10 to 20 and pays $$ for accepted work. Deadline: Winter: Nov 9th, Spring: Feb 9th, Summer: May 9th, Fall: Aug 18th • Permission: Need a parental email if you are younger than 16 (giving permission to publish your work & receive payment). Need address. • Topics Examples: Lifestyle, music, book & movie reviews, sports & fitness, political & environmental. • Writing strategies: Reflecting, Reporting, Explaining, Arguing, Opinion and Humor! Length 200 to 500 words Be CREATIVE and send work that you would be proud to have published. All articles must be appropriate for ages 10 to 100! Work not used is stored for another issue. Send submissions as Word documents to: Goodlifejournal@gmail.com Thanks, Cathy McNamara (Publisher) (845) 332-3353
Open Call for Young Writers, Photographers, Cartoonists and Webmasters! Volunteer and learn more about publishing. www.goodlifeyouthjournal.com • Page 7
Education
The College Transition: HARVARD
W
hat started out as one of the most daunting experiences of my life has turned into one of the best things to ever happen to me. College is truly like no other atmosphere in the world. From the support networks, to the fascinating classes, to the guest speakers, and to the friendships I’ve formed, my experience at Harvard College has been nothing short of incredible. My initial move to a new city and the start of a new school experience was quite foreign. I have lived in Woodstock for all of my life, so moving to a city was a transition in itself. What was I supposed to do without my car? How was I supposed to adjust to walking to every store and market? Who else was I going to meet who came from a small town in the country? Fortunately, all of my qualms withered away within the first few weeks of school. It can be quite intimidating to start in a little town where everyone knows each other and new faces are rare, and then go to a college with 6,000 students and many unfamiliar faces. As a high school student, I only pictured college as a foreign concept that wouldn’t be relevant to me for a long time. But, once I got to college, I realized that so many opportunities were waiting for me, and I couldn’t be more grateful to be in a new and exciting place. College is no longer scary, but rather exhilarating. One of the absolute best parts of my experience has been the access to guest speakers and events. Over my first three months at Harvard, I have been able to attend talks given by Pussy Riot, Barbara Walters, and John Dramani Mahama (the President of Ghana). Over the next
By Cassandra Hastie, age18 few weeks, I will have the opportunity to meet new members of congress and to attend a talk given by Ban Ki-moon. Not only do I learn a lot from going to these talks, but I also get to meet people who hold similar interests as me. Another powerful college experience has been getting involved with the community that exists around body image and eating disorders. I had the privilege of participating in a workshop called the Body Project. The Body Project works to deconstruct the “thin ideal” that exists in our society and to empower women to become positive body image advocates. As a recovered anorexic, it means a lot to me to be on a campus that is so loving and supportive. Harvard even held a “Love Your Body” day, which a good friend of mine attended with me. Although academics are challenging at Harvard, they are nothing short of fascintaing. I have learned so much about our world and country through both my Human Rights class and my Comparative Politics class. Additionally, I have learned how to do extensive research through my required freshman writing class. By putting hard work into these classes, I come away with meaningful knowledge and a constant flow of new information. College can be a very scary concept, however the experience is life changing. I have made friendships that will last a lifetime, learned new and exciting things, and had the opportunity to listen to knowledgable and interesting people. If students or parents have any questions about transitions to college or about the application process, please feel free to email me at chastie@college.harvard.edu.
Photo by Cassandra Hastie
Page 8 • www.goodlifeyouthjournal.com
Education
SUNY Saturday Arts Lab
Interview with Jessica Poser by Shannon Myers, age 20
Shannon Myers: How did the Saturday Arts Lab program begin? Jessica Poser: The Lab is part of the Community Arts School at SUNY New Paltz, which began in 2013 as part of an effort to provide more opportunities for community involvement and outreach as well as to provide programming in the arts for underserved populations. It also serves as a fieldwork site for our undergraduate art education students. SM: Who is behind it? JP: I coordinate the program. Art education faculty supervise undergraduate students who teach. Community artists teach in the program. The program is supported by and housed in the School of Fine and Performing Arts. However, it is the K-12 students who come to the program every Saturday who are the real creative force of the program. SM: What are the goals of the program? JP: One of the primary goals is to provide a place where students can experiment and explore and in this sense we really are a ‘lab’. We have a focus on process. We are more interested in the problems that our students find and take on than in the final product, and our instructors support them in this exploration, to facilitate an environment in which students become part of a community of learners in which they are free to experiment and innovate with the materials at hand. We are also interested in skill building in the arts. SM: How does the program (and how do the people behind it) contribute to the community? JP: Saturday Arts Lab provides weekend programming for kids who might not be getting art in their schools. Given an average of two hours, the students are able to investigate new materials. Additionally, we have a commitment to inclusion, and provide partial and full scholarships to many of our students.
Photo by SUNY Art Lab
SM: Have you seen any positive changes since the beginning of the program, either in the program itself or the community? JP: The excitement and energy that the young people bring to the campus community has been extraordinary. On Saturday mornings we have kids running to their art classes, they can’t wait to get to work. Our Spring 2015 session will begin on February 21 and run for eight weeks. We are offering an exciting lineup of classes in music and visual art. Registration opens December 15. Check out the website for classes and registration materials. www.newpaltz.edu/sal
www.goodlifeyouthjournal.com • Page 9
Politics
By Caleb McNamara, age 22
Zephyr Teachout and the Winds of Change
U
CM: In your book, you reference the snuff box that King Louis of France gave to Benjamin Franklin and how it Zephyr on a recent trip to New York City. troubled the American people. American citizens used with it. The Supreme Court struck those down, and Citizens United to be concerned about the threat of corruption in their political system, struck down laws passed by Congress to limit corporate spending in and they would take action to prevent it. Why do you think American campaigns. So the Supreme Court actually has to take a lot of blame politics have become so corrupt in recent decades? for this. But there’s a second reason. There are basically two ways you ZT: Well, first off, I feel like a lot of people feel: that it’s deeply cor- can finance a campaign. You know, campaigns aren’t free; they cost rupt. That’s the reason why so many people are dropping out or not a lot of money. You either can fund them privately or publicly. Most voting, or not caring beforehand, the sense that the politicians aren’t countries fund campaigns publicly. Here, we fund them privately, and serving them. They’re serving big money, and part of it is the Supreme that’s sort of muddled along for 50 or 60 years without being a total Court. In the 1970’s, Congress passed a whole series of laws that lim- disaster. But in recent years, the private funding has meant basically ited spending in campaigns and it had a majority of American support that candidates and politicians work for campaign donors instead of working for their constituencies.
CM: And that’s all due to the narrowing of Congress’s view of the definition of corruption or bribery. ZT: Well, how do you think the younger generations feel about politics? CM: Well, I think that there is a sense that your vote doesn’t matter so much for a lot of younger people... Because of how much they hear about the corruption. ZT: Yeah, and I think what’s odd and difficult about this time. On the one hand, it’s deeply corrupt, and on the other hand, you know throughout human history many people have not had the right to vote. Kids in Hong Kong are protesting just to have the rights that we have, so it’s a very strange time in that way because we have a formal democracy, but at the same time people are dropping out in droves.
Photo By Jodiah Jacobs
CM: What do you think about the dependency on fundraising in politics? ZT: Well, it totally changes who runs for office and what they do when they run for office. It’s not just how much money, it’s how much time you spend. Members of Congress now spend a third to two thirds of their time just calling people to raise money, and [think] about what that would do to you or any person. First of all, very few people are up for that; second, it changes you because you get very good at saying what the wealthiest people like to hear even if you’re not aware of it. So it’s a very deep corruption of the political system. The children of our communities are key to the future of the state. Page 10 • www.goodlifeyouthjournal.com
CM: Do you have any thoughts on possible solutions to the U.S.’s political corruption problem?
Photo courtesy of Zephyr Teachout
nlike most politicians, Zephyr Teachout speaks out against corruption and the influence of money on modern day politics. Teachout gained popularity in the 2014 Democratic primary election when she ran against Andrew Cuomo. Teachout was not expected to succeed simply because Governor Cuomo’s campaign had so much more funding due to donations from big business. Surprisingly, Teachout ran a very competitive race against Cuomo, capturing 35% of the vote and 20 counties even though she didn’t raise much money for her campaign. Even though Teachout lost the Democratic primary, her success was an extremely refreshing change from the usual dominance of candidates in the pockets of big money. Teachout discusses the causes of and possible solutions to corruption in American politics in her book Corruption in America: From Benjamin Franklin’s Snuff Box to Citizens United. I got a chance to sit down with Zephyr and talk more about these issues.
Politics ZT: Most people know it’s a problem, but they don’t think it’s fixable. Of course, I’m a Democrat, so I’d say that the right wing and the corporate powers are quite happy that people don’t think it’s fixable, because it’s OK if everybody stays home. The truth is that we can fix it, we can have a public finance system in which to run for office you don’t need to beg wealthy people. You just need to show that you have a grassroots base of support. It’s a public financing system and you know, as a woman, it’s a real feminist issue for me too. So many more women run when you have a public financing system, people who don’t all have the same biography run. So that to me is one of the big fixes, and one of the things we absolutely have to do. You know, I’d like to see the kind of protests that are happening in Hong Kong start happening here, because it is so fundamental to even be able to have a democracy. You may wonder why you want a democracy. Well, it’s the basis of public education, it’s the basis of roads and bridges and society working. The other thing is that I think we need to break up the big companies like Time Warner, Comcast, JPMorgan. We used to break up big companies all the time but starting in the 1980’s, we stopped.
“They’re serving big money, and part of it is the Supreme Court.” CM: Do you think that your ability to run such a competitive race against Andrew Cuomo in the 2014 Democratic primary election is proof that the American people are ready, or close to ready, to make a change and stand up to big money and its influence in politics? ZT: Yeah, I hope so, because I really ran on these fundamental issues and tried to tell the truth about what I saw. We didn’t have very much money. People thought I was like an app at first, I had such a funny name, but in just three months we won over half the counties, so I do feel like the tectonic plates of the politics are shifting a bit. CM: So you are hopeful for the future of politics, then? ZT: I’m hopeful, but I’m not optimistic [chuckles]. I think there’s a chance we can break this open. Ever since Occupy back in 2008 and the economic struggles of 2008 and everything that was happening then, I think that there has been a sense that the alignments are changing. But it really [depends] on the people not relying on the usual class of politicians to solve it. I think we need to see a lot more artists getting involved in politics, a lot more young people involved, just not the usual type of political candidate. People who might otherwise consider themselves outsiders should be the ones running for office. CM: Before, you were talking about the Supreme Court’s narrow view of corruption. Hypothetically, what do you think it would take to get the Supreme Court to re-evaluate their definition of corruption? ZT: Well, we need a new Supreme Court, so new justices on the Supreme Court. If that’s possible, we can have that. I think that Congress needs to see that people aren’t going to take it anymore. I feel like there is a sort of lazy comfort in being in Congress. I know it’s hard, but not enough people are paying attention to the right issues. Zephyr Teachout is the kind of politician that the American political system needs right now. American politics have been conducted through shady agreements with big business for too long. It is time that the American people take control of their political system once again, and to do that we will need more candidates and political thinkers like Teachout. This country was founded on ideals like equality and political and governmental purity. It’s not too late to get our political system back to its former glory . . . all it takes is the initiative of the people. www.goodlifeyouthjournal.com • Page 11
Advice
Ask Sushi Fluffy Advice by Griffin Stewart, Brooklyn Age: 14
H
ello, and welcome to another “Ask Sushi,” with me Sushi, your lovable and fluffy comrade. One of my pack members has just turned 14 and it was an amazing birthday party. They made a lot of great food and yes there was some chicken involved for me. Speaking of chicken, I love chicken so much. I don’t know if I have mentioned this before, but it’s my favorite food. It’s also MOST of my food. Sorry I was gone for an issue. I was away on a trip to the Galapagos Islands. It was hot and sunny. All this “Ask Sushi” work really makes a dog tired. And so I needed a vacation. When I was there I saw a lot of interesting, cool things. I saw some hot Pomeranian babes. The water there was crystal clear, except I don’t like water so…ya know. And I ate this weird orange fruit I can’t quite remember the name of. It was big and sweet and it had a large core in the center that I couldn’t eat. I think it was called a mangoo or a manga. I don’t know. Oh, well. But enough about me. Time to answer some questions. Question 1: How can I find time for all of my life’s responsibilities and family obligations? I want to do so much, but barely find the time to just do basic survival things....so much never gets done. Lisa Grandelli A: Well, then, I know how that is. I can never find enough time to eat chicken now-a-days with all the different things I have to do. So, I always make a plan. It gets me on a path to get me where I need to go. For instance, today’s list involved: wake up Mom, drink water, get bone, eat bone, sleep for about thirty minutes, wake up all the other pack members, then I usually get a walk, eat lunch, sit with pack members, petting time, (which usually takes forty-five minutes to an hour), then sleep, sit with pack members again, sleep some more, eat dinner, take a walk, have some yogurt, (every dog needs yogurt) and then for the rest of my night I do unexpected things, like teach myself how to play poker. And that’s just one of my days. And because of my list I get every single
“Sorry I was gone for an issue. I was away on a trip to the Galapagos Islands.” thing done. And now for my Sushi wisdom to you: You need to have life goals. And decide what you want to do and what you don’t. Have certain days where you do some things and other days where you do other things. Always have a list. Don’t forget to make room for some unexpected things, not everything can be listed. And that was my Sushi Page 12 • www.goodlifeyouthjournal.com
Advice wisdom to you. Next question. Question 2: How can I adjust to the change of seasons to winter... particularly the cold and lack of daylight? Lisa Grandelli A: Well, I always grow a thicker coat, but I don’t know about my other pack members. They seem to be balding. So, if you are like my pack members what you need to do is bundle up and take walks. You need the sunlight. Exercise is good as well. I always run laps when I get a little cooped up...Chicken! And eat right! You are more susceptible to colds and other maladies of the body in winter. Oh, and drink lots of water. You need to stay hydrated. Those heaters will dry you out and if you’re dry, you’ll catch a fever and that’s not good at all. So, here’s my Sushi wisdom to you: Don’t become stagnant! Sometimes you just have to stay positive, even through the cold. And, like I said in the last question, you have to stay on track because you are in your house a lot more bundled up doing nothing. So, keep a list, have a plan, and have things that you like to do planned out for when the winter really hits. And that is my Sushi wisdom to you. Final question.
Galapagos Islands
The Galápagos Islands are an archipelago of volcanic islands distributed on either side of the Equator in the Pacific Ocean, 563 miles west of continental Ecuador. The islands are famed for their vast number of species and were studied by Charles Darwin during the voyage of the Beagle. His observations and collections contributed to the inception of Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection.
Question 3. Sometimes, I wish that I was a fluffy animal in the woods. Can you tell me how I could satisfy my desire to also be more like an animal? A: I know how you feel. I have always wanted to know how it is to be fluffy. Wait a second, I am fluffy. But I have always wondered, how fluffy could I get? Could I get so fluffy that you couldn’t even see me anymore? I think that would be too fluffy, but I always imagined it would be
an interesting sight to see. Well, you could always go into the woods and act like an animal, or should I say, manimal. Ha ha. If, in your pack, you have one of my comrade friends, you could get on all fours and spend some time with him or her and I am sure they would show you the ropes. And now my Sushi wisdom to you: Sometimes you have to get in touch with your animal side. Just think back to these moments where you read what I wrote - that sometimes you need to take a note from your fluffy friends and to satisfy your needs to be fluffy. And that’s my Sushi wisdom to you. This is the end of another column of “Ask Sushi!” Peace, dogs and dogettes. Sushi, out.
www.goodlifeyouthjournal.com • Page 13
A Tale of Two Towns and their signature looks for the season Juda Leah Day Look:
• Taupe Knit Hooded Cowl Scarf, (available in other colors!) $30 • Couture Felted Wool Jack et by Juda Leah, $350 • Metallic Skirt by Juda Leah, $120
Juda Leah Atelier & Boutique
J
uda Leah is a fashion designer and owner of Juda Leah Atelier & Boutique, in Saugerties, NY. The Boutique offers a wide variety of locally designed and handmade accessories, clothing, jewelry, millinery, vintage, art and gifts! Juda Leah herself creates all of her own designs in her studio. She designs and creates seasonal collections for the boutique, and custom evening wear and bridal. She also teaches sewing and design lessons, privately. For more information, visit our website: www.judaleah.com or “LIKE” Juda Leah atelier & boutique on Facebook!
Page 14 • www.goodlifeyouthjournal.com
Dig
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By Starla Bolle, age 9 was in my mom’s store DIG and saw this adorable black faux fur coat. Let me tell you about it. First of all, I love faux. Faux (pronounced “pho”) means fake in French. I just LOVE the fact that we can have amazing fashions and not have to kill animals for them! Anyway, the coat was really comfortable, and I think that I looked like a million bucks. Anyway, I tried it on and it fit great. If you want to see and try on some more fab faux fashions for Winter, come into my mom’s store DIG at 89 Partition Street, in Saugerties. You might even see me hanging around!
Fashion
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Small Tri • My Dress size l e n a 0 Side P $232.0 ere ashm e) C han us (one siz s la A c • s i b i H er in 149.50 Topp $ ichelle ooz M Size 7 M z i • M er Boot Leath 190.00 $
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Dig specializes in modern, comfortable, designer fashion from size XS - XXL to make you look and feel great! Open every day at 89 Partition St in Saugerties and online @ digtheshop.com Dig Kids:
a top $75.00 Tees By Tin Roxy: Blue r scarf $58.00 ium Faux Fu .00 • Pandemon ped flats $120 Calf Hair stri Y /N le So • French ) .00 (one size by Tina $114 s es dr es Te 00 le Scarf $30. Starla: Purp r Cowl Neck ium Faux Fu on em nd $2 Pa • ze 6 40.00 Nyla Boot si • Miz Mooz
2 it d Kn oo!) $ t • Gol in silver t a Do r Polk 20 e t t i l kG s, $ • Blac mwarmer ton Ar e But intag V d ce l • Go S Ali e by S 0 c a l k • Nec alvage, $8 ess S rt Dr T-shi 20 t e v l h, $1 d Ve • Gol Juda Lea by
www.goodlifeyouthjournal.com • Page 15
By Fiona Maria
Sorella
A
little store with many possibilities. Costume Jewelry, bags, denim, basics, blouses and party wear. Supporting designers from LA to NY and in between. If you’re a classic girl or trendy girl you will always find something that pulls at you! Visit us online at sorellaofwoodstock.com
Page 16 • www.goodlifeyouthjournal.com
Woodstock General Supply Specilazing in outdoor wear for men & women. Coats, parkas, sweather and everything you need for Winter in Woodstock. Also accessories like gloves, hats scarves and socks, wallets and backpacks. Homewares are also available. Check out the rest at oodstockgeneralsupply.com
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www.goodlifeyouthjournal.com • Page 17
O, Come Let Us SEW Woodstock
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Just Faux Fun:
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s every fashion maven knows, accessories can make or break the outfit. The following are just a few of the many excellent choices to top off your most festive seasonal looks. For more info go to www.sewwoodstock.com
• Luxurious white and cream fake fur with red silk lining (sold)
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Slouchy Look:
• Organic Sherpa lined Cotton Bucket Hat
Natural Look: • Luxurious brown and black fake fur with silk lining.
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Page 18 • www.goodlifeyouthjournal.com
Talisman of Woodstock
Talisman of Woodstock is a unique gift store nestled in the heart of Woodstock. You’ll find many local handmade treasures, inspirational gifts, jewelry and unique items, beautiful to the eyes and heart. Go to woodstocktalisman.com
Necklace & Rings: • Each rugged & romantic creation hand carved with poetic etchings and words of inspiration...made in the USA
▼
So Many Choices:
Necklace:
▼
• Peace sign Dime Earrings made using Recycled Vintage US Coins made locally in Woodstock and sold at Talisman.
• Bohemian inspired, a gentle jingle from the play of crystal against satiny niobium medallions with nature-inspired patterns.
www.goodlifeyouthjournal.com • Page 19
Lucas Wachs:
Cover Story
G
By Scarlet Disko, age 17 • Photos by Pete Alport
ROWING UP NEAR MOUNT BACHELOR in Oregon’s Cascade mountain range, Lucas Wachs developed a love for skiing at a young age. Wachs began his skiing career riding down the mountain in his father’s backpack at the age of three. When he was big enough for his own skis, Wachs quickly took to the slopes and created his own style of skiing. Now he is a famous professional ski athlete sponsored by companies such as North Face, Lib Tech, Dragon, Hydroflask, and Black Strap. I recently got a chance to talk to Lucas. Scarlet Disko: I understand that you grew up on Mt. Bachelor, but at what age did you start to take skiing seriously? Lucas Wachs: Around the age of 12, I began to put more focus on the sport. However, I don’t ever take skiing too seriously because it’s not that serious of a sport. SD: How have you managed to stay motivated to ski all these years? LW: It’s hard to get bored when there are always new things to learn while skiing. There are many different aspects of skiing that are often changing, such as snow and avalanche conditions, various new tricks, and new mountain routes. There are always different tips and tricks you can learn from riding with other skiers. It’s always motivating to try new stuff or ride a different way. SD: What’s your favorite part about skiing? LW: Just riding with my friends, having no stress on a powder day and simply having a good time. Skiing with good friends and sharing a camaraderie has always been what it’s all about to me. SD: What are some of your favorite tricks? LW: The “Switch Cork Five” is by far one of my favorite tricks to do. You take off going backwards and then you do a 540 degree spin in the air that sets you forward. It’s a really fun trick. SD: I read that you grew up skiing with snowboarders. What made you decide to ski instead of snowboard? LW: Because I started skiing at a really young age, I figured I should stick with it since I already knew it well and loved it. There has never been a need for me to change. SD: How many hours a day do you spend training? Skiing? Page 20 • www.goodlifeyouthjournal.com
LW: It depends. If we’re out filming, then we put in really long days. Leaving at sunrise, we either stay overnight or we are home by dark. Generally the days are about eight hours. I don’t train that much. The only real training I do is in the gym several times a week in the fall. I’ve never had a coach or anything. I just love to ski. SD: What kind of risks are there for the tricks that you do? LW: When you’re learning a new trick, there is always high risk. These days, some ski aerialists use safety “air bags” to practice and learn new tricks. These large inflated bags create a cushion that protect the skier, no matter how they land the jump. I’ve never used them, though, so it’s definitely risky to try a new trick as I don’t know how it will go. Before a new trick you have to envision it in your mind and stick it
Cover Story
“Lucas Wachs began his skiing career riding down the through as much as posington and at Jackson Hole sible in your head. It usuin Wyoming. I’d really like to mountain in his father’s ally works out well if you’ve go to Japan and to Europe. It taken the proper steps in learnwould be fun to ski in Austria pack at the age ing a new trick. and the Italian Alps as it’s really epic there. SD: Are you ever scared? of three.” LW: Yeah, oh for sure! You get scared, but it’s SD: Did you ever think you’d become this sucwhat keeps you level.
SD: Where are some of your favorite places to ski? And where do you dream of skiing? LW: Bachelor is definitely my favorite, but I also enjoy skiing in Wash-
cessful? LW: I’ve never really thought about it. I was always in the mindset that I was going to ski and do my best. I’ve always strived for it, so I guess I figured it could happen.
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Cover Story SD: How did you get involved with the many different sponsors you have? LW: Through our local shop in Bend, Oregon, called Skjersaa’s. The owner, Jeremy, helped me out as I started doing competitions and skiing for the Salomon team. Working through the shop, I was able to meet reps and people in the industry, which is how I gained sponsors. Skjersaa’s helped me out a lot as they put me in touch with people I would never have been in contact with otherwise. SD: How often do you compete? LW: I don’t really compete these days. I’m not that into it anymore, I didn’t do a single competition last winter. I focus mostly on film work.
Wachs goes airborne on a custom jump designed for training. Inset: Luscas takes a selfie on one of his mountain adventures.
SD: Who are some of your ski idols? LW: I grew up watching Sammy Carlson. He is from Mt. Hood, Oregon. SD: What do you like to do outside of skiing?
LW: I like to mountain bike and skateboard. Mountain biking and skateboarding are my main other hobbies. I like to draw, too. During the summer I paint ski lifts, so that takes up a lot of my time. SD: What kind of tips do you have for someone who’s just beginning? LW: Just have a good time. Don’t worry about being good, and focus on having fun and enjoying your time in the mountains.
Local Ski Mountains HUDSON VALLEY SLOPES
Belleayre
Hunter
Windham
Located off of State Route 28 in Highmount, NY, just hours from New York City. From new lifts to new lodges to new trails, Belleayre strives to continually break new ground - and stay at the forefront of the ski industry. Belleayre now stands as a model in the ski industry. Its continued improvements include the Area 51 terrain park, two progression parks, mogul trails ranging from intermediate to expert. www.belleayre.com (845) 254-5600
Three separate mountains encompass a wide variety of terrain catering to skiers and riders of all ability levels. There is something to satisfy any skiing or riding style! Our Scenic Skyride features our sixpassenger Kaatskill Flyer detachable chairlift. This state-of-the-art lift takes you to the 3,200 foot summit of Hunter Mountain’s skiable terrain. Hunter is an easy ½ hour ride from the NYS Thruway. www.huntermtn.com (518) 253-4223
New York’s premier ski resort. Best known for our convenient location, family-friendly atmosphere and impeccable customer service. Windham offers an authentic, BIG mountain experience. We are an easy drive from metro New York, New Jersey, Westchester, Long Island, and the Hudson valley Region. The Resort also caters to weddings and other group gatherings, our accomodations make planning turn-key and easy. www.windhammountain.com (518) 734-4300
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Food RESTURANT REVIEW
Yum Yum Noodle
By Finn Doering, age 12 http://sharpfinnsoup.wordpress.com/
Y
Photo by Dylan McNamara
um Yum is located just off the Village Green in the heart of Woodstock. The space has cool walls with shadows of people eating noodles and dumplings on them. The main seating is natural wood picnic-type tables and benches and makes it feel friendly. I first had the vegetable dumplings, which are crispy and crunchy and have great flavor. The sauce is sweet and thick. Next, I had the Raw Kale Salad with tamari almonds. It is a heaping plate of greens and is sweet and salty and addicting. A great way to get your kids to eat veggies!!! Next, I had my favorite: steamed pork buns. They come with pickles and a delicious BBQ sauce that is subtle and just adds to the flavor. The pork is crispy and the bun is soft, which is a great combination. You can also get it veggie style with tofu or seitan. My mom had the Korean tacos with kimchi and gochujang sauce. They also have a crispy pork and a cucumber type cabbage which is amazing. The gochujang sauce is a spicy chipotle-type mayo sauce. All these accents together make your taste buds go wild. I also have on many occasions had the Udon noodle soup with coconut curry and tofu. It is delicious, filling and flavorful. You can create your own bowl with choices of noodles like Ramen, Rice, Soba, and Udon with a broth like miso, veggie, curry etc. and a protein of choice. It’s like designing your own homemade personal soup! For dessert, my sister had the warm flourless chocolate cake. It literally melts in your mouth! Each bite is insane!!! It’s very rich and you probably should split it, but you might regret that! They are also known for their Guava Lime Cheesecake, but we tried the pumpkin seasonal version and it was perfection. www.yumyumnoodlebar.com (845) 679-7992
www.goodlifeyouthjournal.com • Page 23
Photography
The Art of Loreal Prystaj
L
ike sheds truth where it falls. The daily schedule disappears, and routine no longer exists. When captured in thin slices of illumination, time vanishes and only truth remains. As a child, even in the darkest moments, a place full of color, wonder and delight can be created; a world exempt from all darkness. Light allows us to see beyond ourselves. Darkness conceals all, and injects fear. Many of our truths and happiness exist from the child within. For who we are as children is our being at purest form. It is not influenced, manipulated or forced; it just is — and to just be, is where light can be found within each individual.
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Photography
www.goodlifeyouthjournal.com • Page 25
Healing
Guide to
Healing Gems & Crystals
By Caleb McNamara • Photos by Dylan McNamara
T
hroughout the course of human history, mankind has had a seemingly inherent knowledge of crystals/gemstones and their uses. There is evidence of crystal use dating back to the times of ancient Sumer. The ancient Egyptians used many stones like Lapis lazuli, emerald, turquoise, and quartz crystal in their jewelry and for health purposes. The ancient Aztecs and much of ancient China used green stones like jade for health and spiritual purposes. Many Native American tribes used crystals and gemstones for the same purposes. Generally, the properties of gemstones and crystals are determined by their colors. Each color resonates with a different colored chakra within the human body. According to Hindu and Buddhist beliefs, chakras are energy centers in the body. Each chakra is responsible for different functions. The base chakra is red. It is located at the base of the spine and is responsible for grounding a person and making physical ex-
BLACK AND RED: Many black and red gemstones are used to align and open the base chakra. Black stones like obsidian, black tourmaline, and onyx are good for grounding one to his or her physical life and for protecting against negativity. Red stones like garnet, and ruby are also good for grounding and in addition they give the wearer vitality and energy.
ORANGE: Most orange gemstones and crystals deal with the sacral chakra. Stones like carnelian and orange calcite are great for opening the sacral chakra. These aid the wearer with creativity, confidence, and physical energy.
YELLOW: Yellow crystals and gemstones are generally used for aligning and opening the solar plexus chakra. Stones like citrine, yellow agate, yellow sapphire, yellow jasper, and topaz are all good for harnessing willpower, mental clarity, and positivity. These are all good stones for working with the solar plexus chakra.
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istence pleasant. Just above the base chakra is the sacral chakra, located in the lower abdominal area. The sacral chakra is orange and is responsible for creativity and desire. The solar plexus chakra is yellow and located in the solar plexus. It is the emotional center of the body. Above the solar plexus is the heart chakra, located over the heart. The heart chakra is green, and it is responsible for unconditional love and compassion. Above the heart, in the center of the throat, is the throat chakra. This chakra is blue and is responsible for communication. The third eye chakra is located in between the eyebrows. It is purple and is the center of wisdom and insight in the body. Finally, the seventh chakra is the crown chakra, located on the top of the head. The crown chakra is violet/white and is the center for spiritual growth within the body. All the different colors that crystals and gemstones come in relate to these seven colored chakras and their specific functions. There are many stones that have properties that
GREEN AND PINK: Green stones are mostly used to align and open the heart chakra. Stones like rose quartz, emerald, moss agate, green and pink tourmaline, jade, and peridot are all strong heart chakra openers. These stones help to fill the wearer with unconditional love and compassion. Many green stones are used to help with prosperity in addition to promoting love and empathy.
BLUE: Blue crystals/gemstones are primarily used to open the throat chakra. Stones like lapis lazuli, sodalite, and blue kyanite help the wearer to communicate ideas clearly and coherently. In addition, many blue stones like aquamarine, blue tourmaline, and blue sapphire help contribute to a sense of calmness in addition to aiding in communication.
Healing differ from their color, but for the most part, the color of a stone indicates that it shares the properties of a chakra of the same color. If you notice that one of the characteristics described above seems to be lacking in your life, I would strongly suggest obtaining a stone that treats that characteristic’s corresponding chakra. Here is a summary of different stones and their properties: Before using a new stone, one should cleanse it to ensure it has not retained any negative energy from a previous owner. This can be done by simply letting the stone sit in salt water overnight. After cleansing a stone, one can set an intention for the stone by holding it and focusing on what you would like the stone to help you with. There are many ways to use crystals and gemstones to align and open the body’s chakras. One way to do this is to lay on a flat surface and relax with each stone placed over its corresponding chakra. Another way to receive the benefits of these stones is to meditate with them in your hands. Probably the easiest way to ensure that your crystal or gemstone works with you and heals you is to carry it around in your pocket or somewhere on your person for up to a month. Many crystals and gems get their energy from the sun and can be left in sunlight to charge. Crystals are so capable of retaining and conducting energy that quartz crystal is still used in some electronics today. These crystals and gemstones are truly a gift from nature. Think about exploring the variety and capabilities of these wonderful stones-you may be pleasantly surprised by how they change your life!
PURPLE: Purple crystals and gems are great for aligning and opening the third eye chakra. Stones like amethyst, ametrine, and fluorite are all good for contributing to wisdom and understanding. WHITE/CLEAR: Clear and purple crystals and gemstones are usually used for aligning and opening the crown chakra. Many purple crystals can align the crown chakra in addition to the third eye chakra, and clear quartz crystal can align any chakra in the body. Stones like clear quartz, amethyst, ametrine, lavender jade, and danburite are all used to open the crown chakra. These crystals and gemstones all contribute to spiritual evolution and help propel one toward what some refer to as “enlightenment.”
We would like to thank Daphne Cash of the store Modern Mythology in Woodstock for graciously allowing us to do our photoshoot in her awesome store. See more of her gemstones and other spirtitual gifts of light and love at villagegreenbb. com/mdmy.html (845) 679-8811
www.goodlifeyouthjournal.com • Page 27
Fiction
By Mimi Ngo, age 17 • Photos by Pico Aulicino
Disregarded Opinions
“I
t’s still a waste of money, even with forty percent off!” I bluntly stated, a decibel or two too high. She scowled at me, her “un-amused” face plastered on her pale skin. Currently, we have been walking through the aisles of Ikea supposedly shopping for Christmas. Apparently, some sort of spark had gone off in her head, compelling her to go Christmas shopping. And the policy strictly said that if she went shopping, I had to go, too. Of course, that wasn’t official, but in our relationship, it was. And mind you, our relationship was not official, at least according to Facebook. “It’s so not a waste of money! It’s normally forty bucks,” she retorted, hugging the life size singing Christmas Penguin to her body for dear life. I metaphorically “face palmed” my forehead. It was bad enough we were wasting money on tacky decorations for my apartment, but a life-sized penguin that sang annoying Christmas songs? Heck, no! “Absolutely not. No discussion,” I rolled my eyes and diverted my attention to something else, causing her to put the penguin in the cart anyways. “It’s my de nero, so I should be able to spend it anyway I want,” she stated, lifting her chin up and walking away with the cart. And, as usual, my opinions were disregarded altogether. I sighed and scratched the back of my head, just letting her do her thing. At least I tried. Honestly though, I just wanted to go home and watch episodes of “Criminal Minds” on Netflix. But, no, I had to go Christmas shopping. I couldn’t care less about the stupid holiday! I was no Scrooge by any means, but I just wasn’t the most willing to spend my money. I was a cheapo, and I knew that. In this economy, being cheap was better. Besides, Christmas was so overrated. People filled the minds of children with ludicrous ideas like that some chubby man in a red suit broke into Page 28 • www.goodlifeyouthjournal.com
their houses at night to give them free presents and toys, all the while eating their cookies and milk. That was only part of it, though. People were also obligated to spend copious amounts of money on others just because it was “Christmas.” And then there were the ridiculous decorations and advertisements! Once the 31st of October passed, I swore that stores started bringing out the Christmas light sets and putting the eggnog on sale! “We need this inflatable light up Gingerbread house in our lives!” Oh, right. And then there’s her, the bane of my existence. She was a total nut during the holidays, indulging in the supposed holiday sales and ending up broke by the end of the year. Heck, she had snuck into my apartment and dragged me out of bed at 2 in the morning to go Black Friday shopping! Shaking my head, I sighed, “We already have the light up snowman. Now let’s just go pay and go home - hey, and I don’t remember agreeing on the penguin!” I said as she placed a second penguin in the cart. Why the heck would we need two? Scoffing, she crossed her arms and shook her head right back at me, “You poor, unfortunate soul…don’t you see the excitement of putting up decorations and getting into the holiday spirit?” “Nope, it’s called a waste of time and effort. The fact that they sell decorations at these prices is atrocious!” I said, shaking my head in confusion as I gestured to an eightydollar set of light-up reindeer. “Oh, pssh. You’re such a killjoy! Lighten up! It’s Christmas time, you Scrooge,” she said, nonchalantly placing a gold Christmas ribbon on my head. She chuckled and lightly slapped my shoulder before scurrying along. I frowned, raising my eyebrow at her cheerfulness. “I am not a Scrooge! I’m just cheap in the good way; without me, you’d be broke for all eternity,” I called after her. She turned around and rolled her eyes at me as if I was the one who was being unreasonable! “Whatever floats your boat! Y’know,
Fiction you might as well just accept who you are. Embrace the stingy!” This woman. That was all I had to say. Sometimes, I have to wonder what this relationship was made of. I sent her a pointed look.
“It was bad enough we were wasting money on tacky decorations for my apartment, but a life-sized penguin that sang annoying Christmas songs? Heck no!” She flashed me a lopsided smirk and flung her arm around my shoulder like one would his or her old chap. “Okay, fine, fine, no more sass,” she then gave me smile laced with humor before suddenly dipping the ends of her eyebrows down to mimic a puppy face. “But since it’s Christmas time, could you possibly put ‘Mr. Stingy’ away for hibernation? For me, ‘plez?’” Oh, great, the puppy dog face. I could never ignore that face, especially when she stuck her lips out in a pouting fashion. And I swore those eyebrows were created to make this face! Sighing and looking in the opposite direction, I reluctantly nodded my head very slightly. “Fine, I suppose,” I sent her a little grin, noticing her eyes begin to brighten considerably. “Yay!” she exclaimed before prancing away and throwing various tacky decorations in the cart. “Hey, I agreed, but I never said that you could buy more overpriced Christmas junk!” She sent me an evil smirk, “Nonsense! This is only a part of Christmas! There’s many more to come, so don’t hold your breath!” And then she proceeded to run away… gosh, she seriously didn’t make sense sometimes. I could only sigh, shaking my head as she completely ignored me. Then, as I watched her, I let my face break into a light smile. At least with her, I’ll never be bored.
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Fiction
The Adventurers
By Jack Warren, age 16
U
pon the screaming winny of his steed, the man in armor realized the rest of his journey would be trod alone. The fiery crimsons and golds of the sunset fell across the land before him, as if the gods were gracing his eyes with a final feast. It was a hero’s sunset. He drew his iron blade. There was a shadow on the horizon. He had come on this grande errand to right a terrible wrong, to slay a mighty evil. It was a fool’s quest, but it was a hero’s Staring bleakly at his foam sword, it was hard for Arthur to remember how not-dumb this was supposed to be. There was nothing wrong with knights and castles and hit-your-friends-with-sticks-and-hopethey-don’t-cry when he was tiny, but he was old now. Fourteen. Like a practical freaking adult. “Hey, Dragomir!” Any feeling of dumb melted away like summer ice cream. Skipping over the September grass was Rouge, a girl in elf ears and adventuring boots. “I hope you don’t mind me using your in-game name. I’m trying to get into character.” “Sure! I mean, yeah, sure. Amethea, right?” “Oh, crap, is that what it was? Would you be okay with sticking to Amethyst? I don’t think I’ll...” “Sure! I mean, yes. Totally. Much easier,” Arthur said. This was nothing new. She hadn’t begun as Rouge either. She had buried her birth name in dirt and stone a long time ago. When asked why, she would smile, and say “School is the worst,” although it was an uncommon question nowadays. New titles were common among their friends. Once a month, they would come together and play pretend. They came on bikes and in buses and parents’ musty cars. They came in trench coats and t-shirts and three-hundred dollar costumes. They forged themselves in the flames of wizards and dragons. They were the Adventurers, and they were about to play a game. An eldritch cacophony escaped the monster’s great maw as its claw
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Photo by Kyle Perler
lashed forward in terrible ferocity. Its breath stunk of blood and rot. “Dragomir!!” called Amethyst, some yards away. He dimly heard a maniacal laugh before being thrown violently to the ground by a bolt of crackling magic. As his head struck the rocky battlefield, pain erupted from the point of impact. He writhed on the cold ground, gasping for air, barely able to hear his own ear-splitting howl. His hands shaking, he reached for a small vial in his pouch. His fingers curled around the glass - before dropping it to the ground. He cursed. The light was being devoured; first the dark blue of the sky, then the silver of his armor, then the bright blue of Amethyst’s hair... Amethyst. He grasped the vial and downed the sour red elixir. Red. Rouge red. Dragomir jumped to his feet, eyes scanning the carnage. Bodies smothered the field and blood permeated the earth like swamp water. Countless friends and enemies, all fallen, but he was looking for one. There she stood, plucking an arrow from the dissolving corpse of a sorcerer. But, behind her - oh no. Dragomir ran. The monster of blood and rot screamed as he tackled it to the ground. Dragomir struggled to pin it, but the beast’s strength was great, and within seconds he found himself unable to move. Amethyst’s arrows stuck into it one by one, but they merely increased the intensity of its roar. Just as Dragomir felt the monster’s rancid breath on his neck, as its cold eyes began to swallow him whole, he pushed his sword through its chest. Amethyst pushed the beast aside. She took his hands in hers. “Arthur...” she said. “That was so badass.” They kissed. Dimly, he was aware the game was over. Dimly, he was aware that Sam, the rot monster, was screaming about their epic brawl. Dimly, he was aware of how ridiculous they all looked. But he didn’t care. He was an Adventurer. www.goodlifeyouthjournal.com • Page 31
Poetry
Winter Trees
By Jayla Sebastian, age 10
With graceful white branches
And yet
Shadowed with grey-brown bark
More beautiful than
And powdery flour spilled
Flower bouquets
On knots and around the roots
Or ladies’ swirling skirts
Buds of foliage and blossoms
As beautiful
To open at Spring’s warm light
As a bright red bird
Silently standing
Taking flight into falling snow
Solemn as a rose
When it was whole...
Photo and Poem by Kaitlana Petunia Viglielmo, age 16
The Lost Howling Dark Night I could hear the rain pelting the ground sounding like bullets piercing through old dead trees. The wind was blowing sounding like someone screaming at the top of their lungs. My palms were starting to sweat. I heard an owl in the pitch black frightening woods screeching. I ran at full speed feeling scared. It felt like a dream that I would never wake up from.
Photo by Dylan McNamara
I saw a dead crooked tree that looked evil. The howling winds kept on repeating in my head. At one point I yelled at the top of my lungs. I stopped confused not knowing what to do. I heard a screeching sound of a tree which irked me .As I started to speed walk, I kept on looking behind me. I walked into the same tree that I saw before. It was black, dark and rotten with twisted leafless branches. I got up and ran. It was an anger but also a fear I could not describe in words. I had goose bumps all over. My whole body was freezing. My insides were knotted up as my heart was racing. I could still hear the screeching of the owl repeat in my head. I felt like pulling out all my hair. I went on my knees, covered my ears so afraid and started to cry. I had knots of anger in me as the wind started to blow rapidly. This was something I could not get away from. That’s what scared me the most. By Alexa Smith
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It used to be whole, New and in good condition. All for corners, Flat and smooth With its glossed finish. But that, That was years ago.... Know the frame lay empty, Face down On a shelf. The photograph That was displayed In it, The one with the group Of smiling frends. Now lays empty. The photograph Lays crumpled Stuffed Down In The back Of your drawer.... The glossed finish has gone Dull. All four corners Badly bent were you Ripped it out Of its frame, And slightly
Crumpled From where you grabbed And pulled it out Crome the back Wall it still, lay in its frame. Those faces Left, Years ago. But you Kept them, In your drawer. Because You see it And remember, That once It was whole, Once every thing Was in good condition. And just that memory, The one you get when you See that worn out Photograph. Is enough For you to want To keep it. Even though It is No longer Whole.
Poetry
Goddess
By Maya Fisher, age 20
I am an ocean current
lining of my skin
not fat or overweight or obese
I am the coral reefs off the coasts of Caribbean islands that blossom in the sunlight
I cannot be those things because I am more than
I am so much more than flesh and
my skin and bones
skin covering nerve endings and red blood cells building up in the creases under my thighs when I sit
and body I am billions of gallons of saltwater swelling in waves
down
that crash into every beach on your continent
do not tell me that my legs look too wide -
I am every grain of sand in the Sahara Desert
they support the earth the sky and the sun so I am proud of their power
and I am every water molecule plummeting down Victoria Falls hundreds of miles an hour I am the racing heartbeat of every newborn baby and the faltering breath
do not tell me that I am chubby or plus size or “big-boned” because being those things is not insulting; it is liberating
of two parting lovers on a train platform in London
I can carry every inch of my being in this body that is larger than your cookie-cutter mold for a woman in your male dominated society
clinging to each other for just a moment longer I am every atom of passion filled with electrons of desire
I defy your conventions
every time your lips hover above my skin
so when you tell me that my number on a chart is offsetting
so do not call me large do not call me heavy
I’ll tell you that your narrow-minded views of beauty
don’t you dare call me anything less than goddess
are disgusting.
because I am the pouring rain and the dry summer winds
Because nothing is more beautiful than the skin stretching over my bones
I am more than your brainwaves can ever fathom
and nothing ever will be.
I am every star in the night sky; ancient constellations embedded into the
Photo by Dylan Jurusz www.goodlifeyouthjournal.com • Page 33
Music
Meeting the Diva
W
hen talking to lifelong opera singer, Brittany Sokolowski, one thing became clear to me: opera is more approachable than I previously had thought. There is much that goes into the performing of opera from the elaborate costumes and wigs to the extravagant music and language itself. Yet, the stories themselves and the overall meaning of opera are things that we all can connect with. Sokolowski grew up in a family of opera singers. Both her parents studied classical singing. Her father, a former student at SUNY Potsdam’s Crane School of Music, was a year behind Renee Fleming, currently one of the most famous soprano singers in the world. Opera music was always playing in Sokolowski’s home as she grew up, giving her early exposure and interest. Sokolowski’s younger brother, twenty-three, is currently in his second year of graduate school at Indiana University. The Sokolowski brother, a tenor and dedicated singer, is on a full-ride scholarship for opera performance. Her sister, who is currently fourteen, has been studying with Maria Todaro-Otey from the Phoenicia International Festival of the Voice for the past six months. Sokolowski and her brother both went to the Manhattan School of Music Precollege Program. After this, they attended the Purchase Conservatory of Music where they earned their undergraduate degrees in opera performance. Though Sokolowski wasn’t allowed to formally take voice lessons until the 8th grade, she received helpful tips on breathing and opera techniques from her parents as she grew up. It is important to wait until 8th grade, when one’s fully developed, to take private voice lessons as the training can be rigorous. Training involves learning how to use the many delicate and intricate muscles that make up the neck, throat, and vocal chords, learning how to stabilize all the tension and pressure that comes with breathing, and figuring out how to make all of this one balanced formation. “It often takes two decades until you really feel solid and know what you’re doing,” stated Sokolowski. “I’m in my early 20’s and I have already sung in a few lead roles, however I won’t really feel like I know what I’m doing until my 30’s.” Opera is similar to any other sport. The vocal chords are tiny and
delicate which means it is easy for injuries to occur. Opera is also seasonal, typically beginning in September and ending in May. Ballets are performed in many opera houses during the summer. It’s more common to find opera at a festival during the summer. One of Sokolowski’s favorite roles was Cendrillon in ‘Cendrillon,’ by Jules Massenet. Cendrillon, the french version of Cinderella, was Sokolowski’s first full production with a full orchestra. Other memorable roles include a young crippled boy in Gian Carlo Menotti’s English opera, ‘Amahl and the Night Visitors,’ and Gretel in ‘Hansel and Gretel,’ a German opera by Engelbert Humperdinck. All three of these productions took place at Purchase. She also played Kate Pinkerton in ‘Madama Butterfly,’ by Giacomo Puccini. This performance was part of the Phoenicia International Festival of the Voice. Various professionals performed in ‘Madama Butterfly,’ which made it exciting and interesting. Many of Sokolowski’s influences in her opera style come from the languages she has studied, learned, and loved. She has studied German, Italian, and French, and continues to study languages as they build off each other. She also loves to act and get involved in a role, which adds to her enjoyment and style of opera. According to Sokolowski, mainstream music bands create albums that are sold and popularized by each particular band’s personality and character. The songs are typically simplistic with basic lyrics. Though a local band might cover a song for fun, it’s never the same as the original band’s performance. “With opera, its the music that’s so great,” said Sokolowski as she shared how opera never gets old. “Classical singing is about having different artists continue to do the same opera, performances, and music over and over again to see what they bring to it, or what the color in their voices adds, or what the match of having these three people as the lead roles perform it different from the ones who did it last year.” Sokolowski ended the interview by declaring that opera is much more congenial than those who know nothing about it may think. “The stories may be in another language,” said Sokolowski. “But the stories remain timeless and simple, everyone is able to connect with them.” Opera is something worth experiencing and something that shouldn’t be judged until you’ve seen it.
“It is important to wait until 8th grade, when you’re fully developed, to take private voice lessons as the training can be highly rigorous.”
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By Scarlet Disko, age 17
Music
Is Charity An Opportunity? Having Each Others’ Back at the Ladies of the Valley Benefit for Family of Woodstock
Photo by Jane Traum
By Calder Mansfield, age 14
The Ladies of the Valley concert, featuring Natalie Merchant, Kate Pierson, Simi Stone and many other incredible performers.
I
was recently in a concert titled “Ladies of the Valley” at the Bearsville Theatre, in Woodstock. If it were up to me, I would have called this event “Goddesses of the Valley.” “Ladies of the Valley” was a benefit for Family of Woodstock. I know first hand the good karma that Family of Woodstock puts out. The other performers in the show did, too. This benefit was a way of repaying that goodness. The performers were a musically diverse group of women playing music and singing songs written by other women. Performers included Liz Mitchell, Simi Stone, Lindsay Webster, Kate Pierson, Natalie Merchant and Amy Helm, just to name a few. These musicians might have been intimidatingly striking and musically powerful on stage, but backstage they were completely supportive. For instance, Lisa Green pulled me aside an hour before the show and taught me a song that she wrote. I think the name of the song is “Can’t Find Love Anywhere” - I was on it so fast I didn’t really get the name of the song. It was absolutely beautiful, though. I played guitar on the song and harmonized with Lisa. After we learned it, she jokingly said, “I knew you could do it… I’m so smart.” Lisa is funny, but her confidence in me made me feel proud. I wondered if these leading ladies looked at this concert as charity, or as an opportunity. For me, singing Chrissie Hynde’s “Message of Love” was a privilege. I was with these women, spreading kindness and receiving respect. In my opinion, this made it an opportunity rather than charity. I asked Elizabeth Mitchell, who helped organize the event and invited me to sing, if she thought it was charity or an opportunity. Liz said, “I would have to say I look at it as both. It was an opportunity to play music and sing with other women who play music that I admire. At the same time I am very grateful to do something of service to the community. So, in all, it was a win-win situation.” Inspiring words from a very well-known recording artist. I hope there will be another “Ladies of the Valley” benefit because Family of Woodstock gets a lot of people out of trouble and to quote Simi Stone, “Here in Woodstock we might be crazy but we have each other’s backs.” www.goodlifeyouthjournal.com • Page 35
Awareness
Handwriting Analysis
By Mikey Shultis, age 18 o Coppola-Griffiths has been working with young people in the AWARENESS Peer to Peer Youth Program since its inception in 2006. She uses her unique skill as a handwriting analyst and her degree as a licensed mental health counselor to help kids understand their core personalities and reflect on their behaviors. Handwriting analysis is a science and an art. Most people do not understand the power of the brain’s ability to show what is going on deeper in a person’s core through handwriting. Handwriting analysts or graphologists see things in writing in the moment a sample of handwriting is created. If a person is experiencing pain, mental problems, a physical illness, blockage in the heart or brain, or any symptom that the body internalizes or feels, these can be seen in that person’s handwriting sample. The handwriting analyst can also see a person’s ability to work through issues or not--many people do not desire to work through complications and traumas because of the pain this involves. Handwriting analysis gives a person the tools necessary to become aware of their problems and to start the process of healing. When Jo works with kids in the Peer to Peer program, she almost always tells them to buy a blank and unlined journal to write in. Journaling is always associated with healing because it comes from the brain, and through the heart by way of emotions. Journaling is, in a sense, a pathway to the heart. It allows people to really feel, on paper, and to learn about themselves and therefore, to grow. Jo also suggests that people create art--not the type of art that makes sense because you draw a flower or scenery, but abstract art, which reveals the artist’s mental and emotional state. Some of what comes out of drawings, similar to handwriting, is incredibly powerful. Jo is able to analyze drawings done by all kinds of people, from babies just learning how to doodle to much older people. We all need to be healed, because life is a series of disappointments, challenges, and wrong choices. Talking to ourselves, so to speak, on paper through journaling helps us get to know ourselves better and to work through our problems. It is a way to say, “I can handle what comes before me, no matter what, because I know myself and I will be ok”. The AWARENESS Program is piloting an evidence-based journaling program in conjunction with Jo to help youth learn to utilize this valuable tool.
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Library Kingston Library: 55 Franklin St. Mon: 4-5 Bookmaking club Tues: 10:30 Toddler Story hour Wed: 10:30 Story Hour Thur: 3:30-5 Teen Art Club Call 845-331-0507 x7 or kingstonlibrary.org New Paltz Elting Memorial Library: 93 Main St. : Mon 6:30 pm Chess. Wed 4:00 Knitting kids Fri 6:30-7:30 Movies call 845-255-5030 or eltinglibrary.org Olive Free Library: 4033 Rt 28 Shokan Mon: 5-6 4-H Girls,Tues: 10-11 Story Hour. Activities for children, teens call 845-657-2482 or olivefreelibrary.org Phoenicia Library: 9 Ava Maria dr. Mon 3-5 Homework help, Sat: 10:30-12:00 Event programs, Sat 1-2:30 Art hour. call 845-688-7811/ or phonecialibrary.org Poughkeepsie Library: 504 Haight Av.Teen Room Open: Mon/ Tue2-6, W/Th 2-8 Fri/Sat 2-5. Reading Buddy Program. 845-454-
This journal is dedicated to the Page 36 • www.goodlifeyouthjournal.com
Awareness
Jo Griffiths with Judge Bacon form New Paltz court at an awareness presentation.
For more information, go to voyageofthepen.com and www.awarenessinc.org
Calendar 9308 or poklib.org Rosendale Library: 264 Main st Wed evening events 7:00. sept 14 Freedom Gardner Horticulture, Oct 17 The American Crow, Nov 14 Climate Change at Mohonk. 845-658-9013 or rosendalelibrary.org Saugerties Library: 91 Washington Ave. Mon: 6:30-7:30 Lego Club, Tue & Wed 3:30-4:30 Teen Club (video & crafts). call 845-246-4317 West Hurley Library: 42 Clover st. Mon: Pre-school story hour 10:30, Weds: Knitting Group 6:00-830, Movie every 4th Monday Call 845-679-6405 or westhurleylibrary.org Woodstock Library: Tue: 4:00 Early Readers Story time Wed: 10:30 story time w/ Plumflower Thur: 4:00 Lilliput Players Sat: 10:30 Family special guest storytellers & performers. Call Lesley Sawhill 845679-2213 or email: Woodstock.org
memory of Tom Alba and friends www.goodlifeyouthjournal.com • Page 37
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