the bird on fire

The Bird is the Word: Sophisticated Schoolyard Shenanigans

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Why Aren’t We Talking About These Cars?!

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By Jack Edelstein, 8th Grader

On our theme of “Underrated/Overrated,” Jack says the following cars–to borrow from comedian Rodney Dangerfield–don’t get enough “respect.”

When I overhear (more like eavesdropping) a conversation about cars, I always hear about the mainstream Lamborghini Huracan or the Ford Mustang. Although these cars are good in their own right, here are some cars that I think are not discussed enough in these conversations. 

1986-88 Mercedes-Benz AMG Hammer Coupe

The Stern-looking AMG Hammer.
Photo Credit: robbreport.com

What makes the AMG Hammer special is that it was one of the first sedans that could compete with Porsche’s 911, Ferrari’s Testarossa, and Lamborghini’s Countach, all while being practical and comfortable. In order for you to get one of these “super sedans,” you would need to buy an E class from Mercedes, then buy the parts from AMG, and finally retrofit the AMG parts onto the E class. You also had the choice of three V8’s: 5.0L, 5.6L, and a 6.0L–the 6.0L being the quickest with a 0-60 time of 5 seconds and producing the most horsepower at 375 (hotcars.com). This very expensive process would have cost a whopping $161,000 or $452,862 in today’s money (in2013dollars.com). As you can tell by how much it would’ve cost to buy these, not a lot were made; only 30 units were ever sold. I don’t think this car is talked about enough; it was one of the first cars that was efficient and comfortable and could still beat top sports/super car companies.

1986-93 Porsche 959

The 959 pushing it around tight corners. 
Photo Credit: (caranddriver.com)

The Porsche 959 has a very interesting story behind it. The 959 was built on a 911 chassis but had a four wheel drive system, more streamlined design, and a 444 horsepower twin-turbocharged flat 6 paired with a manual 6 speed transmission (caranddriver.com). The 959 was made to actually compete on the dirt, more specifically the Group B Rally Class, but in order to qualify, you would have to make 200 road-legal units of your car. Unfortunately though, by the time the 959 went into production in 1986, Group B had been ended by the FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile). The 959 did compete in the Paris-Dakar race, which it won both times when it competed in the 1984 and 1986 races (evo.co.uk). Even though this was a race car, it was actually pretty easy to drive because of the very advanced electronically controlled suspension system and four wheel drive system. Fun fact about this car, Bill Gates owns one of the 292 units manufactured. The 959 would have cost you $227,000 or $642,737 today. This car isn’t discussed enough even though its technology was 20 years ahead of its time.

2004-06 Porsche Carrera GT

The sleek and quick Carrera GT.
Photo Credit: (caranddriver.com)

 

In the early 2000s, Porsche had released their crossover SUV “soccer mom” car, the Cayenne. Many thought that the German powerhouse had gone soft, until they came out with the Carrera GT. The GT brings easy driveability to the supercar world because of its advanced suspension system and full carbon fiber chassis. It’s also a convertible, which makes it even more notable. You are able to take the hardtop off and enjoy the 605 horsepower mid-engine aluminum V10 paired with a 6-speed manual blowing in your hair; it seems like Porsche adopted the “California style” of supercar, right? To own this magnificent car, you would have needed to pay $448,400 or $735,976 in today’s money. There really isn’t any other car like the Carrera GT; that’s what makes it so special. 

Those are the three cars which I think are not discussed enough in conversations about cars. Let us know in the comments which cars you think are underrated.

Why Coachella Valley is the Perfect Vacation Spot

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By Locals Ani Madanyan and Oliver Martinez

Ani moved to Palm Springs two years ago. She considers herself a local now. But, she started out as a tourist. She’s been coming to the Coachella Valley since she was little. Hence, she knows good touristy spots. Beyond the hotel rooms and swimming in the shallow, heated pools, she knows we all love an adventure. Blogger Oliver embraces more the comforts of home, but he’s got recommendations of places to take desert visitors.

Ani  Recommends The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is a fast journey into the mountains that will take you out of the desert heat. Mount San Jacinto, which towers above Palm Springs, is 10,000 feet above sea level (planetware.com). The Tramway has the world’s largest rotating aerial tram cars. It’s definitely exciting to go from the scorching hot pool to snow on a mountain within one half-hour tram ride. The views are spectacular, even a little scary. The Tram, built in Chino Canyon, has been around a while. Its inaugural ride was way back in September 1963. 

Photo Source: visitgreaterpalmsprings.com

Oliver Recommends staying at home. He says it’s a great place to go.

But, if you must get out, go visit the windmills. The windmills are a great part of Palm Springs, and you can’t miss them. According to planetware.com, the Banning Pass is one of the windiest places on earth. It is harsh, but picturesque. The windmills make for dramatic photos as sunset.

Photo Credit: www.windworks.org 

Ani also recommends local hiking.

Hike to a waterfall! How fun is that? I personally love to go on hikes because I know that there is a pot of gold at the end of it (the pot of gold is the waterfall). The Indian Canyons, which are at the south end of Palm Springs, are the perfect place to go hiking. 

Palm Canyon is a fifteen-mile-long canyon full of waterfalls and the famous palm trees–the indigenous Washingtonia. There’s also the Andreas Canyon. You can drive directly into the canyon and grab a table by the water. “It’s a great place for picnicking,” says Ms. Zachik. The canyons are also known for having lovely birds all around. People often go bird watching. It’s also a beautiful place to see animals such as deer, snakes, and all other sorts of animals. “The hawks up there are really cool,” Ms. Zachik adds.

Lastly, we have Tahquitz Canyon. This Indian Canyons is located all the way up Ramon Road when you drive toward the mountain. At the end of the designated hike, there is a 60-foot-tall waterfall. There are guides, theaters showing documentaries about the canyon, and artifact displays. Adult admission costs $12.50 per person, while an entrance fee of $6 applies for each child. Kids 5 and younger and active military members can visit for free (planetware.com).

Oliver’s final recommendation is The Living Desert. 

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens has plenty of animals from all over the world! There are giraffes, mountain lions, zebras, cheetahs, wild dogs, and a lot more! There are also lights at certain times of the year, and it makes the whole place look even more beautiful. “Glow in the Park” occurs from March 27 to April 29, 6:30-10:00 p.m. The Living Desert is a great place for families with a lot of attractions for everyone. You can even get married there. 

Photo Credit: www.thelivingdesert.org 

What are you waiting for? Invite friends and family to the Coachella Valley! Tell them to bring bathing suits because even though it’s March, it’s always pool time!

Mario v. King Boo? which Boo are you?

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By Makena Behnke

Makena responds to Editor AJ’s Theme of the Week: Video Games.

i am not a video gamer, and my video game knowledge does not extend much further than Mario Kart and Undertale (and my knowledge on that is very limited). Mario Kart is simple, fun, and it lets out my urge to game. i think we all have our favorite characters that are unspokenly ours every time we play; i switch between a handful of characters, but some people will only play as [insert character here]. this list of characters stems from a mix of Mario Kart 8 and normal Mario Kart. i present to you my top five and bottom five Mario Kart characters (not that i only play as these five, but they are my favorites.)

top five:

  • King Boo– the ruler of the Paranormal Dimension, and leader of the Boos and ghosts. need i say more?
  • Bowser– this hardcore turtle-thing does not put up with any funny business. great for bumping little characters out of the way on your way to the top of the leaderboard. he’s not that fast, but he’s Bowser, so it’s fine.
  • Mario– why disregard a classic character like Mario? he’s such a happy little guy.
  • Shy Guy– i like playing as pink or black Shy Guy; the color gives him more character. he’s a pretty zippy character since he’s kind of small in size.
  • Koopa Troopa– i find him pretty fast, and he seems like a nice dude with his sweet smile. plus, his shell comes in red and green.

bottom five:

  • Gold & Silver Mario– i have issues with this specific version of Mario. why do we need a metallic version of him? he just looks weird to me.
  • Pink Gold Peach– i don’t really like Peach to begin with, but i certainly don’t like Pink Gold Peach. i have never once played as Pink Gold Peach, and i don’t intend to play as her in the future.
  • Wendy– is she a baby? how old is she? what is her purpose? needless to say, i don’t play as her.
  • Ludwig– with his cool hair, he’s got kind of a cool look going on, but along with Wendy, i don’t like his character. he doesn’t have much purpose.
  • Lakitu– this specific character is the one that lifts you back on to the course when you drive off the track in Mario Kart…. i have encountered him too many times to not bear ill will against him. i don’t like him because i only see him when i’m losing.

Video Games Editor: AJ Patencio

Passing on the Torch: The Freshman Retreat

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By Holden Hartle

Three years ago, in September of 2015, my freshman class hopped onto a bus for Lake Arrowhead for the Freshman Retreat. This is a three-day trip for the new high schoolers during which they get to know their classmates better through group activities, workshops, etc. They envision what will be and can be their high-school career and beyond.

Back then, the general consensus of the grade was split in half. Some thought that it was going to be a great experience for team building, making new friends, and just a simple getaway from the city. The other half were dreading it, fearing social interaction. But, nonetheless, the freshman class entered the bus and headed to Lake Arrowhead.

This year is no different. In mid September, the future class of 2022 traveled towards Lake Arrowhead. Though I went to the UCLA Conference Center and this year’s class went to a large cabin, and though we may have done different activities, the idea of bonding with fellow classmates was still present.

According to current freshman Kaiya, this was the “…best field trip so far.” I don’t want to spoil the activities of the Freshman Retreat in fear that it would ruin the surprise for the upcoming freshmen, but in a survey sent to the current freshman class, 75% said that it helped them learn more about their classmates, 100% said that they had fun, 100% said that they would recommend it for next year’s freshman class.

This tradition is something that I hope will continue for many years to come. This passing of the torch is how I made some of my best friends that I have today. The memories I made on that trip always make me smile. I remember our shared songs, games, and team projects. It is such a great way to not only learn about new students, but it is also a great way to learn more about students that you may have known your whole life.

Editor: AJ Patencio

Adventures Through Slab City

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By Blog Adventurer Holden Hartle

Photo credits: Amanda Laule

Not to sound cheesy, but over Labor Day weekend I had the most amazing experience. I, along with a few friends, embarked on a journey around the Salton Sea. On this journey, we stopped at Salvation Mountain and, the real attraction, Slab City.

For those that don’t know, Salvation Mountain is a sculpture made by Leonard Knight. He dedicated 30 years of his life to the spread of one phrase: God is love. This phrase is plastered all over the mountainside. The pull factor of Salvation Mountain, at least for me, is that there is nothing like Salvation Mountain anywhere in the world. Its uniqueness and originality is unmatched.

If you travel half a mile east of Salvation Mountain, you will find Slab City. Residents live completely off the grid. There is no electricity, running water, or most things that make life in the desert comfortable, but residents make it work.

Upon arrival, you are greeted with rows of trailers, which may remind you of a trailer park. But, if that’s the case, this is the single greatest trailer park in the world. Beautiful murals line the entrance, and people are often outside their trailers selling various items, from pottery to art lessons.

Our specific destination was East Jesus, cleverly named as it is east of Salvation Mountain. East Jesus is an art gallery that is made entirely out of recycled material. We get out of the car and enter the appropriately named, West Satin. West Satin is more of a hang-out area rather than an art gallery. Inside was a group of people simply talking about their lives and their stories.

Before leaving home for Slab City, four different people came up to me and said, “Don’t get out of the car. You could get attacked by homeless people.” Let me tell you how glad I am that I didn’t listen to those people. The Slab City residents were some of the most genuinely nice people I have ever met. Though I never got his name, one resident gave us some insight into why and how someone would live there.

When I asked the man how he lives without common amenities, he responded with his own question, “How do you live?”

“With electricity and air conditioning.”

“Are you happy?”

“I’d say so.”

“Are you stressed?”

“Well, everyone is stressed where I live.”

“That is how I live comfortably. There are no electricity bills, no utility bills, and no rent. You just live. There is no timetable for when you have to do something. You just do it whenever you can.” To adults who pay bills and to teenagers who are generally stressed all of the time, this sounds like a Utopia. But it wasn’t always so Utopian.

When the government was surveying the area to build a wall between America and Mexico, they tried to drive the residents out. Their way of accomplishing this was to shut off Slab City’s water. Though he didn’t go into exact details, the man explained that now they have more water than before the government concreted their water pipes.

Their stress-free life and their sense of community is something that I’ve never seen before. We live in a society where we need to get everything done on a schedule, but why not take a breath? The residents of Slab City are living full Hakuna Matata, with no worries or cares. Most of us say that we could never live without our electronics or air conditioning, but look at the hundreds of people living in our backyard that have no electronics, yet they are some of the happiest people I’ve ever met. Maybe there is something to take away from these Slab City-ians about how to live a happy life.

Editor: Luke Langlois

Is Far Cry 5 a “5 out of 5”?

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By Peter Kadel

Far Cry 5 is the latest installment of the Far Cry published by Ubisoft and developed by Ubisoft. The game takes place in the fictional Hope County in Montana. This is the first game of the series to take place in the United States. Many of the jokes and quests are more relatable and the characters seem to be more relatable and more farcical at the same time. As a sequel, the game stays close to the core concept of Far Cry: Lots of weapons, outlandish and wacky side characters, maniacal and oddly charismatic villains, and an expansive open world. But, it also mixes it up with a plethora of new minor features that give the game a fresh feeling for the first couple hours of gameplay. The gameplay itself is pretty standard for a Far Cry game. The main villain(s) is/are the Seed family and their radical evangelical cult, The Project at Eden’s Gate, who have taken over Hope County, Montana, and are capturing, brainwashing, torturing the people of Hope County. The main leader of the cult is Joseph Seed who oversees the entire cult with support from his three siblings: Jacob Seed, a cruel and merciless warrior who believes in culling the weak; John Seed, a charismatic man who forces people to confess their “sins” and submit to the cult; and Faith Seed, a sort of enchantress who uses a hallucinogenic drug to control and manipulate her enemies and turn some cultists into drug-fueled berserkers. Each member of the Seed family controls a region, and players have to defeat the three lieutenants and liberate their region before getting to the leader Joseph.

 

The main story of the game is entertaining at parts, but as a whole it is disorganized and lacks a compelling reason to follow the main quest. In all honesty, I only completed the main questline because the side quests were even more one dimensional and linear, with one exception–the Clutch Nixon Stunt missions, which are a series of time limited vehicular feats which you must recreate. The quests themselves don’t have a compelling backstory, but they unlock a series of star-spangled vehicles that are really fun to drive/fly around. But, in general, the game fails to provide a compelling reason to complete missions other than “do this to get some cool stuff” or “because an NPC [Non-Player Character] said so.”

 

That being said, the game is entertaining and provides an enjoyable experience in many parts. New vehicles such as planes, helicopters, and semi trucks offer more options in terms of gameplay and how to overcome certain challenges and obstacles such as enemy strongholds and convoys. The game also includes a new type of weapon–melee weapons. These give the player more stealth options in terms of combat.

 

SO! Overall the verdict is: Far Cry 5 is an entertaining game and provides a good gaming experience, but it isn’t worth the 60 dollars needed to pay for it, so if you would like to purchase it, I suggest waiting until it is cheaper.

 

Editor: Bella Bier

The Road Less Traveled

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By Peter Kadel

Last month, I went to the Schoepe Scout Reservation at Lost Valley to work as a volunteer for one of the off-season events. The entire weekend was packed with activities and shenanigans that made my time up there enjoyable. The event itself was not the only fun part; the journey there was also a part of the adventure. This is not because I don’t like the camp, but because to reach the camp I drive up a series of windy mountain roads that culminate in a ten-mile dirt road–a dirt road that is legend among the Boy Scouts of Southern California and parts of Arizona.

“The Road,” as we call it, is a bumpy, windy, washed-out, pot-hole-covered, ten-mile gauntlet that acts as the only public land entrance to the camp. The only other entrances to the camp are by helicopter or through an Indian Reservation. The road has quite the reputation with those who frequently drive to the camp. While the faint of heart may dread the long drive to Lost Valley, I cherish it. I would rather drive down a ten-mile dirt road through a stunning wilderness landscape that makes me feel at peace than drive for one mile on I-10 or any busy freeway in America.

Windy roads are more fun to drive once you have the hang of driving them. The rougher terrain and the sharper turns on windy dirt roads are much more engaging than straight busy highways. You can’t use cruise control or go on mental autopilot. The looser terrain also allows for sliding or drifting, which can be really fun as long as you are careful. The thrill of a fast turn of a dirt road is quite the adrenaline rush when you do it right. And, aside from the obvious fun, a windy dirt road signifies a separation from hustle-and-bustle cities and the trappings of society that in the end don’t really matter.

On my drive home, I actually had to stop driving for a good five minutes so I could just take in the beautiful vista before me, breathe in the clear air, exist for a minute in this paradise with a sky so blue that it took my breath away. The spiritual benefits cannot be replicated on busy highways. If that doesn’t convince you of the benefits of off-road driving, then consider this: when I’m on a major highway, I see people exchanging insults and honking at each other. In the backwoods, I barely see a soul. And, when I do, they’re kind-hearted people with a respect for nature and for those around them. The experiences found off the beaten track and in the heart of nature are something that everybody needs and most don’t get enough of. So go; find them.

Editor: Shelby Armor