The Student newspaper serving the Avon Old Farms community The Avon Record NEWS AND OPINION SENIOR PROFILES CLOSING REMARKS Students opinions about Terri Schiavo The Class of 2005 Editor’s reflect and Fox broadcasting 36was well represented 8 Volume LXXVII, Issue 1 Friday, May 27, 2005 Colossal Construction to Enhance AOF Community: A Journey Furthering Theodate Pope Riddle’s Masterpiece Never

BY BEN KIMMERLE ‘07 much more than piles of dirt now, the will also house a post office and stu- Center will also be the hub for the new sports facility will be an amazing dent lounge, while providing ample music department. An entire floor Forgotten As anyone walking through cam- supplement to Avon’s already stellar space to situate the Hawk’s Nest. With will be dedicated to music, both BY PETER THEIS ’06 pus can attest, there are many exciting athletic program. Housed in the new an expansive downstairs section for chorale and instrumental perform- things happening at Avon. The school gym will be many state of the art facil- games and hanging out, the Hawk’s ance. This article is dedicated to the people of has already begun the construction of ities. Some of the highlights include a Nest will find a permanent roost at the The other side of campus con- Rio Guayas and the twelve incredible peo- the $24 million student center and three-basketball-court complex, which completion of the construction. Mrs. tains changes of its own. Next door to ple who made this trip an amazing jour- athletic complex and hopes to have can be converted to a 60,000 sq-ft. Doyle re-assures that, "The food will the maintenance facilities will be the ney. things operational by the beginning of field space, seven new squash courts, not change, only the facilities." She new digital art and woodworking the 2006-2007 school year. This com- updated weightlifting/aerobic centers, also gives hope to those afternoon building. This building will allow stu- It was the end of March, on a cool plex will also contain a performing arts and an innovative wrestling "arena," hunger pains, saying, "There is a pos- dents to both participate in an updat- cloudy day in Quito, Ecuador. Nine center. All together these three facili- which will be dual-meet capable. Mr. sibility that the Hawk’s Nest will be ed wood crafting environment will adventurous students from Avon Old ties comprise the largest single build- Peter Deckers ’90, the Varsity Squash open after lunch." WAOF is also mak- brand new tools and take one of the Farms School and three guides had just ing project since the school’s opening Coach, says, "The squash courts, as ing a comeback; the student-run radio new digital arts courses that will be finished an amazing 17 day voyage in 1927. with the whole facility, will be the top station has not been active in many available beginning in the fall of 2005. through the majestic mountains and The biggest building in the in our [Founders] league. Our new years but will have its own space to With all the new changes hap- the beautiful beaches of Ecuador. school’s new construction plan, the courts will be a great asset to the team make a comeback in the new complex. pening at Avon, there are many rea- Building a day care center in the coastal athletic complex with field house and and will put an emphasis on the The new construction will also sons to be excited for the future of the town of Rio Guayas, spending time student center, is already in the works. expanding program." include The Pierpont Performing Arts school. Unfortunately for those in the with natives in the mountain town of Construction began the day after stu- In addition to the sporting Center, containing a brand new 500- junior and senior classes, the construc- Otavalo, and gliding through the mys- dents left for this year’s spring break. aspect, a new student center will be seat auditorium/concert hall to act as tion will not be completed until the terious and mirky water of the Amazon First, workers took down trees, then a part of this building. There are rooms the center for Avon’s performing arts. fall of 2006, but future Avonians will were the three main parts to the trip. fence was erected to encompass the allotted solely for school-club use, so While offering a new stage for plays, be able to enjoy fully these new build- The trip started on March 8th as digging that is still going on today. many clubs will finally have a perma- musicals, or speakers that Avon may ings, appreciating and enjoying the the nine students gathered at Sam Although it may not look like nent meeting spot. The student center host, the Pierpont Performing Arts wonderful structures for years to come. O’Brien’s house for an informal "Packing Party". The students were: Rob Boschen, ’06, Dan Butts, ’06, Sam O’Brien, ’06, Mike Cessarzo, ’06, Dan Harris, ’08, Roy Hubbard, ’06, Brendan Reed, ’06, Kyle Rougeout, ’06, and Peter Theis, ’06. Eager and excited of what lay ahead of them, the students listened closely to the advice of guide leader, Avon alum and former teacher Travis Merritt, ’93. Also, at the meeting were the group’s translator Sarah Swartz and the nurse Greg Melitski. The next morning the students woke up around 9:30 to begin the journey down to Ecuador. A generous PHOTOS BY HWI-YOON CHEONG, ‘05 Mr. Dubois drove the toaster to the Left, The new Athletic Complex/Student Center is sure to lift student life to the next level..Right,Ground Breaking Ceremony during Alumni Weekend. Newark Airport as the group waited to Not even the poor weather could dampen spirits. board the flight. The flight down was anything but enjoyable, but knowing how our lives would change forever made it worth the while. Finally, arriv- “It is Written in the Deed of Trust...” ing the next morning around one BY JACKSON HOWARD ‘05 of time. They have come in a variety of Saturday, which gives us a full weekend back surgery, or when Mr. LaRocque o’clock, the trip officially began. Once forms, too. Mr. LaRocque surprised and extra time to prepare for our ath- snuck in the message during a prayer, stepping outside, the warm South Headmaster’s Holidays have been everyone in the Adams Theatre two letic events, the actual delivery is also saying, "…We ask this for thy mercy’s American climate greeted the group as a part of Avonian tradition for a hand- years ago when he asked, "At which diverse. On a Friday this past winter sake… on this Founder’s Day. Amen." they immediately began to perspire. ful of years now, and Founder’s Day play was Lincoln assassinated?" on the Mr. LaRocque asked if we knew why A few confused and silent seconds fol- Boarding a small bus the group slept (the annual day off given each spring) anniversary of the event. Chatter filled Mr. Gardner was not at morning meet- lowed that unexpected broadcast, with over night at a convent in the city of has been with us since 1927. Many a the room as the student body failed to ing but was sleeping. He told us that each of the students soon raising his Guaquiyl. Winged Beaver have avoided their come up with My American Cousin. JTG must have mistaken today for head and celebrating with his friends. A Waking up early the next morn- homework in hopes that the next day Headmaster’s Days have also been Saturday, which he then announced as few years ago, Mr. LaRocque called a ing the students enjoyed a small tradi- would be a glorious one of relaxation "faked," as many students like to think. Headmaster’s Day. Students enjoyed select few people on a Sunday evening, tional breakfast of bread and ham pre- (and likely more procrastination). When Headmaster LaRocque talks this anecdote and celebrated as they instructing them to call a few more, pared by the caretakers of the convent. Four-year boy Archie Preissman calls about the importance of aspiration and planned their free Saturday. Themes creating a huge chain of callers. That morning was taken up by a two them "the best thing about Avon." perseverance and illustrates it with an have been popular lately, too. In the late Eventually, each gentleman received a hour bus ride to Rio Guayas. Within These highly sought after days anecdote, most Avonians think of it as nineties, Key Day was the name of a telephone call from his advisor to hear this community lie houses provided at have more history than one might a sure sign of an announcement to day off, in celebration of the school the splendiferous news: Monday would a reasonable rates for the inhabitants. think. Traditionally, the Headmaster come. When "Let’s have a good day" receiving full financial control from the be a Headmaster’s Day. This marked The days in Rio Guayas consisted announces the day off once per season enters their ears, however, most stu- Board of Directors. Mr. Dan Seiden the first time that Mr. LaRocque of waking up to the sound of roosters at and usually on that actual day. In recent dents can only sit in shock. ’00 says he remembers Key Day being announced a day off ahead of time, nine in the morning then laboring hard years, we students have often been These holidays come in many "a beautiful day." which served as a refreshing surprise to in the warm Ecuadorian climate. The blessed with two days off per season shapes in sizes. Whether it is a six-class The Chapel has been host to the students who happily celebrated by building of the day care center first (usually because two Wednesdays or Monday, which relieves students of a many announcements, such as Doyle sleeping in. began by constructing a cinderblock Saturdays make up a full day of classes) full workload and provides a full but Day, when we were all encouraged to and it has often been announced ahead shifted weekend, or a three-class wish Mr. Doyle a speedy recovery from see “IT IS WRITTEN, page 3 see A JOURNEY, page 2 Page 2 - The Avon Record Friday, May 27, 2005 News/Opinion Class of 2005 Leading the Way on Inaugural Community Service Day BY PORTER SARGENT ‘05 this charge is Community Service beginning of the year, Mr. Buechler Coordinator Mr. Kevin Buechler and asked the CSEC if they thought a Here at Avon Old Farms we all the members of the Community Community Service Day for seniors in are well versed in the "the core values" Service Executive Committee the spring would be a good idea. The that Headmaster LaRocque and other (CSEC). This group includes seniors vote was unanimous, and soon there- faculty members try to teach us. One Warden Patrick Irwin, Vice Warden after they started plans to make goal that these core values promote is Dane Lemeris, Secretary/Treasurer Community Service Day happen. community service, the act of giving Danny Yi, Matt Smalley, Jackson Potential conflicts with this day were back to others. Even though we all Howard, Hwi-Yoon Cheong, Eugene that the seniors would be missing a have done our part by contributing to Herring, and Andrew Lawrence. This day of classes, and the Varsity Baseball, the annual Toys For Tots fundraiser group of young men is widely consid- Lacrosse, Golf, and Tennis teams all and this year’s Tsunami Fund, there ered to be the top eight leaders in the would have a game either that day or are still people out there in our com- senior class. the next; therefore, students had to be munity looking to do more. Leading At one of their meetings in the back in time that afternoon to meet their sports commitments. This meant that the administration and coaches had to be flexible, and they were more then happy to comply. In order for the students to be back in time, the CSEC

made plans to divide the senior class PHOTOS BY HWI-YOON CHEONG, ‘05 into two groups. One group would Dig It! Seniors help out in Hartford. (L to R: Jon Quick, Andre Jones, assist a botanist with the Farmington Sean Backman, Jon Janulis, Pierce McKellar, Joey Sides, Erik Quinlan, River Watershed Association by Eugene Herring, Chris Davis.) removing invasive plant growth. This event would not only allow students to I sat down with Mr. Buechler extending this Community Service help with a very worthy cause for the and discussed the importance of and Day in the future to not only the sen- Farmington River Valley, but also it details surrounding this groundbreak- ior class but every class. "My goal is to would make an impact on and near ing event. "Community service helps find an appropriate event for each the Avon Old Farms campus itself. build three things: humility, to be part grade and extend this event to the This group would be able to finish of something better; discipline; and whole school." their duties and return to campus early selflessness, willingly giving your gifts The Class of 2005 is the first of enough to meet their sports commit- to make your community better." hopefully many classes to come ments. The other half of the senior Sometimes we forget how fortunate together as a group and work for one class would work with Habitat for we are. "We are immensely lucky and day on a community service project. Humanity in Hartford, putting in everyone on the Avon Old Farms cam- One day of our lives, our efforts, and lawns for eight different houses. This pus is fortunate; it is our responsibility our care is worth giving to families in group would work tirelessly until four to enrich the community around us." need and the environment that we all The Class of 2005 at your service! o’clock in the afternoon. This is why Mr. Buechler plans on sometimes take for granted.

The group spent a whole morning in rope swing and the amazing species of insects. The Amazon the lives of twelve individuals, a A Journey the market buying bracelets, hand- thatched roof huts. That afternoon Rainforest was a sight never seen proud feeling was spread to all who continued from page 1 bags, etc. for many of the loved ones Lues took the group on a thrilling before. The natives with their ability had made the trek to the country of back home. bird watch. Seeing many birds to live directly off of the forest, was Ecuador. The next day the students wall around the perimeter of the Another incredible experience swoop down by the water then glide incredible to see. and the guides would head back foundation. This was no easy task as in Otavalo occurred on the last in the air was an amazing sight. The The last night in Quito was a home, but with a different perspec- all of the cement had to be mixed by night. The grandfather gave the next day a swim in Panachoca Lake sad but proud moment. As the group tive on how the world functions. hand. After mixing the cement group a medicine man demonstra- with fishing was on the agenda. met to discuss the trip as a whole, Experiencing people of completely together, the bricks were placed on tion. Aureillo, the grandfather, is (Panachoca means Piranha). Other not one person left their feelings different backgrounds working top of each other with cement in regarded throughout South America sightings include Blue Water unheard. Some laughed, some cried, together for a common goal was between. Next, the group began to as one of the best in his trade. A very Dolphins, Squirrel Monkeys, a three some smiled. Realizing the trip had truly inspiring. It was journey that build a trench around the house that serious procedure, Aureillo spoke to toed Sloth, and many interesting made such an incredible impact on will never be forgotten. many in the community hope will be the gods to bring us good health and the first sewage system. Sam O’Brien prosperity. Many students believed worked tirelessly from dawn until that this event was one of the best The leader of the trip to Ecuador, Mr. Travis Merritt ’94, was nice enough dusk on a six foot deep hole that experiences throughout the whole to share his thoughts on the amazing experiences the trip had to offer. would soon become the communi- trip. ty’s first water well. Working hard in Excited to move on with the What was your vision for this trip when you first came up the group was as a whole. I was impressed by the quick for- the hot sun was difficult at times but last part of the trip, the group trav- with the idea? mation of a TEAM attitude and how each member of the the enjoyment of seeing people’s eled back through the winding roads group seemed to pull their own weight and never seemed to faces brighten up always kept the of the mountains. On the way back "I first came up with the concept of a trip like this in the fall give up. In a group on trips like this there is often at least students going. to Quito, a stop at the Equator was of 2001… Although I enjoy solo travel, I wanted to create one person that is difficult to deal with and no one on this Next on the trip was the jour- only necessary. A small but notice- a trip that would allow others to experience some of the trip, thankfully, filled those shoes. In general, I was sur- ney to Otavalo, a mountain town able monument stands erect to great cultures and adventures that I had. The learning and prised by how easy it was to ‘lead’ this group. They led nestled in between two non-active divide the two hemispheres. Even a personal growth that I attained through these adventures themselves." volcanoes. While in Otavalo, the little time for hackey sack across the was more than I felt I got from all my years of formal edu- group stayed with two native fami- Equator was appropriate. cation, and I felt that our nation’s youth needed to have Where do you see the legacy of this trip 5 or 10 years lies. One family owned a farm while After arriving in Quito, stu- similar experiences to help them in the game of life… I down the road? the grandfather of the other family dents phoned home to check up with wanted to create a program that would allow teenagers and "GREAT QUESTION!!! I really hope that this trip was a famous medicine doctor. Not Mom and Dad. That afternoon was young adults to get a more back-door approach to get the paves the way for future trips so other students will be able only was this uncomfortable at first spent boarding a plane to fly to the ‘real-deal’ and not some cookie cutter tour offered through to experience and learn about the world the way this group to stay in their homes, but theses Amazon River. Arriving in a small other organizations… The Ecuador trip became a reality in did. I would like to see Avon Old Farms students continue natives did not speak one word of mining town called Coca; the group the fall of 2004 after several years of successful progress on to support this community and be a part of its development English. A language called Checua boarded a boat for a gorgeous ride the community service project that my father and I were such that in 10 years we will be able to visit a prosperous and Spanish were the only means of down the river to a campsite. Excited involved in through Rotary. So to answer your question, my community that is self-sufficient and educated. Certainly communication. Somehow through and unprepared, many students were vision was: the cycle of poverty will last longer than 10 years, but we patience and previous knowledge of surprised by the abundance of plant can strive to provide a hand-up to the people of San Pablo Spanish the stay went smoothly. life. After enjoying a great meal pre- "To provide an educational adventure travel program for so that they may have better living conditions, educate their While in Otavalo, the group visited pared by the Amazon guide Lues, the Avon Old Farms students to enrich their lives through children and enjoy a healthy, happy life. Ultimately, I want the largest craft market in South group reflected upon their excite- meaningful community service and cultural immersion." to be able to offer trips to other corners of the globe so that America. People lined up the streets ment for being in the jungle. we may reach out to more communities and provide more of the beautiful old city with carts of The next morning a three hour educational experiences for future students of Avon." scarves, baskets, bracelets, handbags, boat ride to the Panachoca Lodge What most surprised you about the trip? Greg Melitski etc. A means of profit for most of the took up the morning. Upon arriving "The first thing that comes to mind is how amazing Sarah Schwartz villagers, the market was enormous. at the Lodge many were elated by the Friday, May 27, 2005 The Avon Record - Page 3 News/Opinion

to actually notice and confirm it. I Why Battle When She’s not There? ‘It is Written decided to simply ask Mr. LaRocque if continued from page 1 the rumor was true. I was surprised to Commentary on the Life of Terri Schiavo learn that not only does he wear a red Can we predict a day off? It is dif- tie, but also it is a specific tie unlike the BY SEAN BROWN ‘06 with and had children; however, he In the end, the disputes over her ficult to have any control over which other red ones that tease the student remained married to Terri Schiavo life weren’t really even about her life. day is a Headmaster’s Holiday, unless body. Student Councilman Dane The family battles, but for what until her death. The only people that cared whether one is on a winning sports team for a Lemeris ’05 extended this confirmed cause. The daughter and sister they People all over the country and she stayed on the feeding tube or major event. Regardless, individuals try theory to say that there is likely a whole once knew is no more and hasn’t world are screaming protest at Mark passed on were the husband and the to prompt Headmaster’s Days through Headmaster’s Day suit: the red tie with been for the past 15 years. Terri Schiavo and the courts. They ask family. The doctors and people that numerous actions. In the winter of last a school blazer and "almost white Marie Schiavo was born December 3, what gives them the right to judge tried to fight for her were either try- year, for example, junior Mike khakis," which are a subtle break from 1963 in St. Petersburg, Florida. She whether a person lives or dies. ing to make a name for themselves or Bucchino recited a poem "begging" Mr. the traditional tan. fell in love with Michael Schiavo, Certain religious groups declare the were using her as an example. An LaRocque for a Headmaster’s Day. The The visual signs of a day off are not and they were married on November decision should be left to God. They example of what? I ask. They say student body was uproarious in laugh- limited to the Adams or Chapel. Far 10, 1984. In 1990, Marie began to feel that people should not interfere that there is no signed will of her ter, although we remained sans day off. away from morning meeting is the suffer bulimia, a rare and silent eat- with God’s plans. They feel removing wanting to be put to death if she ever Josh Pavano notes "there is always a Riddle Refectory, in which Mr. Kirshner ing disorder that can be fatal. the feeding tube would be killing her came to a situation like this. Mr. school-wide buzz for at least two weeks often turns away morning table setters if Bulimia causes a person to vomit and that would be against God’s Schiavo is a liar, they scream. The before the announcement." It is almost Mr. LaRocque tells the food staff to pre- after meals. It is largely a psychologi- wishes. What makes them decide thing is, what has he to gain by all of as if Mr. LaRocque lets the rumors cool pare an afternoon buffet—or so the cal disorder, and as it persists, the what God wants? Isn’t inserting a this. The protesters fight, argue, and down, because it seems like very few rumor goes. Many students believe this urge to vomit becomes too strong to feeding tube going against God’s claw that he does not even love her people can predict a day off. While there abrupt change in schedule is almost overcome. People with bulimia soon wishes? Isn’t inserting a feeding tube anymore, that he is already with are some key staff who are thought to be always a sure sign. A chat with Mr. don’t receive the nutrients, especially interfering with the process of her somebody else. I must ask those peo- notified (Mr. Kirschner, for example— Kirschner himself revealed something potassium, that their body needs to dying? Without the feeding tube, ple if they have ever lost a loved one. more on him later), the number is fewer else. While he sometimes does have to survive. On February 25, 1990, Terri Terri Schiavo would not have been I ask them to try to sit around watch- than most believe. While the student turn down table setters in the morning, Schiavo collapsed of cardiac arrest, able to live as long as she did. All the ing the person they love incapable of council assures me that it is not notified he has never done so on a Headmaster’s believed to be caused by the extreme- feeding tube did was prolong the expressing themselves, not even ahead of time, there are rare instances Holiday. Instead, he lets the table setters ly low amounts of potassium in her inevitable. knowing that you exist. Mark when unlikely people become "in the set the tables and then he himself blood. The cardiac arrest caused her A person with PVS or persist- Schiavo stood by her for over eight know." Two years ago on the spring art "breaks the tables down, cleaning up to lapse into a coma. Schiavo suffered ent vegetative state is unconscious to years, hoping and praying and pro- trip, after the bus drove off campus— what the boys set earlier." Therefore, it is severe brain damage from the coma, life. Their eyes may open and their viding money so that one day they the point of no return—Warden James clear that he sometimes knows ahead of and she was put on a feeding tube heart may beat, but what we feel as could continue their life together, Tang told me that it was Founder’s Day. time when a day off is, although he, like never to remain totally consciousness the essence of life is no longer there. but she was gone. He was the only Days off are so unpredictable that it the select elite few who also know ever again. Terri Schiavo’s body was there in the one brave enough to find peace with almost seems not worth it to try to fore- beforehand, keeps the secret to maintain Mark Schiavo did everything he hospital for the past 15 years, but that fact, and that is why he decided tell them. our surprise. possibly could for the love of his life. her soul was not. The top part of the to pull her feeding tube. Only when So what’s the big deal? With so Like the red tie theory, other for- He fought for her for years, seeking brain, the part that expresses emo- he knew that there was no coming much set in stone (Mr. LaRocque sin- mulae exist for accurate predictions. out doctors and trying to find cures. tion and controls the most basic back, and that the woman he fell in gularly chooses the date), one of the Some of them are interestingly Mr. Schiavo even brought up a law- things was severely damaged. In this love with was no longer there and biggest thrills of a Headmaster’s Holiday respectable and others pure speculation. suit against the obstetrician that was condition, Terri Schiavo’s body was that she was up with God, did he is predicting it. The art of "the snipe" is Some students philosophize that our examining her for infertility. He felt like a hollow peanut shell. The core, decide to pull the tube. a time-honored tradition in which stu- very own John "Gameface" Connelly is that the doctor should have diag- the good part of Terri Schiavo, was We should not be sulking about dents use whatever information they some kind of rare force in subtly encour- nosed the lack of potassium in her gone. The part that made everybody and protesting the death of Terri can to announce to their friends that aging Headmaster’s Days. A small group blood. The courts agreed with Mr. love her was no more. Why would Marie Schiavo, because I feel that for they know when the next Headmaster’s of students have noticed that both Schiavo, and he received 300,000 anybody want to remain in this these past 15 years, she was with Day is. With the snipe comes respect. renowned Gameface performances (his dollars for himself and 750,000 for state? As a human being that cares God. She was looking down on her "Headmaster’s Day today" can be heard stirring rendition of The Lion King his wife. All this money went into and feels, I refuse to call what she parents and on Mark, hoping that practically every morning, and the theme and the "Sandstorm" interpretive helping his wife survive, either for was doing for the past 15 years liv- they could move on. So, I tell the respect is often given to those who pre- dance) happened the morning of medical treatments or for her contin- ing. She wasn’t really there. She did- protesters and the people who use dict very infrequently and correctly. An Headmaster’s Days in the winter. ued care and housing. He stayed by n’t know time, or who was there, or her death as a way to make a name example of this is Jacksonville resident Perhaps our day student’s stunning per- his wife for as long as a human could even how to see. She just stayed in for themselves to put away the picket John Neil ’06, who is very conservative formances compelled Mr. LaRocque to watch another suffer. He finally one position, not even able to signs and rejoice in the life that Terri with his predictions. This day-off dis- declare impromptu days off. A sure way found a new person to live his life dream. Marie Schiavo lived. cussion came up during a Wednesday to put this theory to the test is to have night buffet dinner, and Neil predicted our very best perform another Disney (only when asked) dual Saturday holi- theme song or techno dance. days, with hopes that the Varsity Other theories abound. A member Rivalry Swallowed by FOX? Hockey team would win a fifth champi- of the class of 2004, who wishes to onship. This event being over a week remain anonymous, noted that BY SAM EMMONS ‘05 somewhat recently added inter- rivalry, there is no doubt about that, away, Neil was not only correct, but he Headmaster LaRocque "has a little extra league play. TV and money were but TV (cough cough FOX) has earned respect from the few who heard hop in his step on his way from break- Ah yes, baseball season has the driving forces behind the insti- used the rivalry to turn ratings and his wise words. Such educated guesses fast" on a Headmaster’s Day. Whoever begun again. After a 2004 season tution of inter-league play. Big profit. How many times did we see are the perfect examples of superior "sni- originally noticed and passed on this filled with so much excitement and baseball execs wanted storybook the clip of A-Rod and Jason Varitek page." While it is very challenging for rumor remains unknown. There is the much needed success for Red Sox match ups like Red Sox-Cubs, scuffling with each other during the anyone to predict a Headmaster’s baby theory as well. After students fans like me…it almost seems that Dodgers-Yankees, the great teams ALCS? I think they showed Bill Holiday, the rumors often spread the received a day off in celebration of the Game 4 of the World Series was last from the National League playing Mueller’s walk-off home run quickest once a respected Avonian Deckers’ then-new baby, students were week. The season takes too many the great teams from the American between every Mariano Rivera makes one of his few predictions wild with eagerness in the following months and weeks to play as it is, League. It steals a little light from pitch. They simply have taken it throughout his Old Farms career. Sam months, when multiple faculty babies and we have TV networks with the the World Series, but that is anoth- too far. It is not that they play too Emmons ’05, a member of the school’s were born into the world. There was big bucks to thank for that, but the er argument. A part of me sympa- many games, believe me, I’d rather Roll’n ‘80s stickball team, says, "It’s hard also a holiday for the Buechlers’ new- reason I am writing this is different. thizes with Mr. Callaghan, because watch the Red Sox play the Yankees to snipe; everyone usually knows born, much to the thrill of Avonians. Mr. Callaghan wanted me to write honestly it does get quite boring than any other team, because it is around the time that [Headmaster’s With numerous others following, how- an op-ed about the ridiculousness watching the same teams over and always good baseball. That extra Holidays] come, but no one ever knows ever, the student body was disappointed of the Red Sox and Yankees playing over again. On the flip side, energy is in all of the players and for sure until we hear it." that so many new faculty children could twenty plus games in the regular though, my team picks up a lot of fans because of the rivalry. It only Many less skilled "snipers" must be birthed without any kind of celebra- season. I knew what he was getting wins against its other divisional starts getting ugly when FOX’s rely on visual or aural "tells" the day of tion in the form of no school. Student at, but I decided to put the explana- rivals; however, it does mean that broadcast sounds like an ugly the announcement. Mentioned earlier, Hunt Grobert ’06, like many other day tion in this article. young small market teams such as hybrid of Survivor and American the sportsmanship talk with a tie-in to a off-savvy boys, remarks that Founder’s What Mr. Callaghan really has the Devil Rays have to play roughly Idol. With FOX grabbing as many New England sports team is often cause Day always occurs on a beautiful spring a problem with is the large amount a quarter of their games against two national broadcasts of Red Sox- for many people to predict a day off, day. Not only does this make it a bit eas- of divisional play in each club’s of the top teams in the American Yankees as they can, they effectively although the most popular theory is that ier to predict, but it also makes it the schedule. That is, teams in the League. start to ruin the fun. They have of the red tie. When asked to back up a perfect day to have a break! same division play each other some- Perhaps the real problem is not proven that they can not broadcast prediction, all one needs to say is "red Headmaster’s Holidays are a cele- where between 19 and 24 times in the fact that the Red Sox and reality TV well, even when it is tie," and any doubters quickly back off. brated part of Avonian culture and have the regular season. The teams play Yankees play over twenty games in actual reality. I think divisional This method has been in existence for a great history of entertainment and sor- the majority of the other games the regular season against each play is better for rivalries and divi- years, and I had never been able to con- row. In my closing words, I simply within their respective leagues, leav- other, but that the great rivalry has sional races, but someone is always tain my excitement enough just after a advise you to watch your forecast if Mr. ing the remaining games to the been taken too far. It is a great ready to ruin a good thing. Headmaster’s Holiday announcement LaRocque is not wearing that red tie. Page 4 - The Avon Record Friday, May 27, 2005 News/Sports Go Get ‘Em Boys...A Snapshot of the 2005 Varsity Baseball Season

BY ERIC WUELFING ’06 team has won six championships in the last nine years, an extraordinarily large Despite losing their first game of accomplishment for any private school the year to Choate, the Varsity Baseball team. This is in part because of the squad is made up of some of the constant stream of talented players that strongest and most capable athletes in join the team each year. A freshman, the school. The team’s captains are sen- Alex Santopietro, and sophomores iors Jeoff Jarnot, Dan Righi, and Eric George Springer and Taylor Riley, McGrath – each are not only outstand- made the squad this year and have been ing baseball players, but also strong contributing players. Having young, multiple sport athletes at Avon. impact players at the varsity level is a The climax of the season was no very rare occurrence for such an excel- doubt the third meeting against lent team. Not only has Avon won Loomis in the middle of April. The many games over the years, but it has Winged Beavers had already defeated also placed many players in college Pomfret and Trinity Pawling, but this baseball. Players graduating from encounter would be the turning point Avon have gone on to play at such pres- of the season. With three wins and two tigious colleges as Yale, Dartmouth, losses (one against Loomis in an earlier William and Mary, and the University meeting), the team was at risk of slip- of Pennsylvania. ping to .500, an uncharacteristically The 2005 team has been able to low winning percentage for recent PHOTO BY JUNHO YI, ‘05 continue the winning tradition. At the Kevin Zikaras ’06 deals to the plate with Dan Righi ’05 ready at first base. Avon teams. They had to defeat time of print, the team stands at 11-3. Loomis, and with the help of many against Loomis was a pivotal and Avon a thrilling 2-1 victory. That about his experience on the team this If Avon can play with the same talent experienced players, they captured the emblematic one for the 2005 squad. game seemed to be a turning point for year. "We have the strongest team I and vigor that they have used to defeat win and provided the boost in team Billy Siers had the winning hit in that the 2005 team; they have been 9-1 have seen in my three years here, and I other teams, there is no doubt that they morale that they needed to carry on to game, singling to drive in two runs in since! think that the League Championship is will finish with an outstanding record, many more victories. The game the last inning with two outs, giving I asked catcher Matt Reilly ’06 a possibility." The Varsity Baseball and perhaps even another league title. Tennis Spins a Season to Remember BY STEFAN SEITLER ’05 to come out victorious with a 7-0 going to be a tough match where it "Schultz played a great second set and Hyde’s opponent fought off two score, despite several close matches. would come down to a victory in the was a point or two away from making match points at three to five. The The 2005 Varsity Tennis team is In the weeks following Avon proceed- doubles point. To start off the day, it a three set match. His opponent Suffield opponent came back forcing really something to celebrate as they ed to walk over the Trinity Pawling Matt Jones and Charlie Hyde ’05 just barley sneaked it out," said the second set to a tie-breaker, but wrap up their 13 and 0 season. As one School, Kingswood Oxford, Loomis played a skillful match against some Coach Henry Coons ’71. The Hyde mustered all of the focus he of the fastest moving precision sports Chaffee, and the Pomfret School. of the top competitors in New Winged Beavers were in somewhat of could to win the tie-breaker 7-2. The out there, tennis is not easy, and that The game recap from the England. Although they were not a bind, but Lanza and Rothschild overall team score was 4-3. This was a is why only a select few make up the Pomfret match is typical for these able to seal a victory, the number both won their matches at numbers 5 solid win for the Beavers and ended eleven-man roster. With ten seniors younger teams. Matt Jones ’05 and three doubles team was able to pull and 6, respectively. Knotted at three Suffield’s undefeated season. on the team this season’s squad has Adam Marianacci ’05 vastly through in a pinch. Tied "one all" in matches each, everyone gathered near The Winged Beavers put been a true example of the standard improved their number one doubles the doubles, all rested on the shoul- court four for the match that would together an impressive season and of tennis that Avon plays. position winning all of their matches. ders of undefeated doubles team determine the winner of the fourth will test their mettle in the New The season began with two Eric Lanza ’06 and Chris Wickham Andrew Schultz ’05 and David point and team victory. Charlie England tournament. rollover matches against Kent and the ’05 took care of business for the Rothschild ’05. Suffield came back Canterbury School, 6-1 and 7-0 number three team, and secured the after being down 7-4 and then earned respectively. The Winged Beavers doubles point to start off the singles a few more points narrowing the gap Rough Start Inspires then faced a tough Taft team which competition. Patrick Glander ’06 had to 7-6 in Avon’s favor. The doubles proved to be their first real challenge. an outstanding showing in the num- point closed dramatically. The Avon Despite loosing the doubles point, ber seven position, sweeping the sin- website offers this recap: "Schultz Strong Finish the veteran team brought their "A" gles competition. All in all Avon had [was] serving, [he] took a deep breath game, winning five of six matches in a great day at Pomfret with an overall and, along with some crisp volleys BY MIKE WITKIEWICZ ’06 quarter. In the second quarter, the singles. Adam Marianacci ’05 in score of 6-1. This was an excellent from his net man Rothschild, saved Phillips-Exeter scored five consecu- particular played some brilliant way to enter the more competitive three break points, and the number 2 It’s spring yet again. The snow tive goals to take the lead at the half, points but was not able to overcome Suffield Academy competition just doubles team prevailed 8-6 to keep is long gone, the birds are back, and 5-2. The Avon attackmen came alive his opponent (one of the top players three days after. their undefeated streak alive." lacrosse has taken over center stage again in the next quarter to even the in New England). For all of the sen- Suffield Academy was a much In singles, Suffield’s "alpha from the meningitis scare. Heralded score at 5. Neither team managed to iors on the team it was a great way to more dominant force this season, male" was just too difficult for as one of the strongest lacrosse pro- capitalize on several opportunities in end their competition against Taft, a with a strong number one doubles Marianacci to budge, and Schultz, grams in New England, the Avon the fourth quarter, and so the game team that Avon has beaten three of team top three players having "amaz- known on the team as "Schultz-ya," Varsity Lacrosse team had an unusu- went into overtime. Avon battled the past four years. They then played ing credentials." Going into the showed his true grit once again but ally slow start to its season, dropping furiously, but in the end, a Phillips- a strong Salisbury team but were able match the team knew that it was came up a bit short in his match. three of the first four games to strong Exeter middie slipped a well-placed opponents. shot past the Avon netminder with a In the first match of the season, mere 1:30 left in the first overtime the Winged Beavers faced off against period. Throughout the game, how- a tough Brunswick crew after just ever, Avon had won more loose balls, one day of practice, hardly enough been more tenacious, and taken time to bond as a team. The team more shots. Unfortunately, Philips- hustled and played well, but could Exeter came out on top with a few not find the net despite many shots strong plays. on goal. Sadly, Brunswick was more The fourth game of the season fortunate and took the game from was an electrifying home match the Winged Beavers, 12-6. against Tabor Academy. Avon ini- Three days later, Avon tangled tially came out with the early lead with Northfield Mount Hermon on after a few quick goals, but a high their home turf. In a match that was number of penalties, along with sev- not very competitive, the Men of eral defensive miscalculations led to Avon played solid lacrosse to whip the eventual loss to Tabor. Tabor NMH 20- 2. Eleven Avonians man- walked away with a 10-12 victory aged to notch goals that day. that day. After delivering such a beating, The team enjoyed eleven days Avon seemed invincible, but that of resting and practice before the was not to be. The next game match against Westminster. During against Phillips-Exeter Academy the game, Avon’s defense was rock PHOTO BY MR. HENRY COONS, ‘71 ended badly for Avon. Avon jumped Adam Marianacci ’05 serves against rival Westminster. Avon won the match, which added to their undefeated season. out to an early 2-0 lead in the first see ROUGH, page 6 Friday, May 27, 2005 The Avon Record - Page 5 Sports/News

the players were worn out from the Rough two games earlier in the week. The Emerald City Comes to Avon Old Farms in continued from page 5 T-P defense was commendable, but by taking solid shots and not wasting the Winter Production of The Wiz solid and the offense poured heat on opportunities, the Winged Beavers the opposing goalie. At the final managed to mount an early lead and BY JOHN DUCCI ‘05 singing, and frequently infused come- gatekeeper, haughty Emerald City cit- whistle, Avon was on top 14-4, the never looked back, cruising to a 9-3 dy there was laughter and enjoyment izens, seductive poppies, groaning end result of a strong game. victory. In late February, all of the Avon shared by all. Rebecca Wilcox brought slaves, a dictatorial wicked witch, her A week later, the Winged In a recent interview, Coach Old Farms students gathered in the liveliness and a true passion to the two nice and loving sisters, fist-wield- Beavers tangled with Hotchkiss at Garber expressed his optimism. "I theatre over the course of three days to stage; she was joined by Eugene ing monkeys, and others made for a home. The visitors were over- think we have a shot at winning the witness their school’s theatrical pro- Herring ’05 as the soulful and over- very entertaining evening. As always, whelmed by a sterling defense that Founder’s League Title and the New duction of The Wiz. Many were cautious scarecrow, Jeff Soyster ’05 as some unscheduled laughs, a little produced many Hotchkiss turnovers. England Championships; however, if expecting a great play given the huge the smooth talking take-nothing- impromptu cross-dressing, and inside The momentum was constantly we are to do that, we need to contin- success of the fall play under the direc- from-no-one tin man, and Seth Jacob jokes galore found their way into pro- directed toward the Hotchkiss goal, ue to play as a team, have more peo- tion of first year Avon teacher Mrs. ’06 as a magnificently executed cow- duction. This only added to the and the 10-6 final score was evidence ple take shots, pass quickly and Gayle Robinson and the technical ardly lion. Sean Johnson ’06 also did crowd’s positive response. To put on a of the excellent teamwork displayed. often, and work on defensive strate- direction by Mr. Jeff Miller, and a an incredibly showy and intense ver- production that not only was theatri- Two days later, the Avon squad gy. great play again was delivered. Mrs. sion of a very lively and flashy Wiz cally as impressive as The Wiz and marched into battle against a Choate "Fortunately, we are well on our Sheri Righi and Marie Lavendier that captured the audience’s attention lively and entertaining enough to hold team to make up a game previously way in that direction. We have great (mother of Chris Canning ’07) and held them from first appearance the interest of an almost all teenage rained out. The offense played very depth at attack and midfield, teamed up to tackle the complicated to last. The chemistry between the male audience deserves much credit. well, but a resilient Choate goalie enabling us to use several different task of choreographing the show, group members caught everyone’s The AOF drama department has once thwarted many of Avon’s thrusts at rotations and tactics. Our defense while Mr. Richard Diamond ’91 ably interest, and it was a genuine pleasure again done an incredible job in sur- glory and limited Avon to six goals. and goalkeepers are also working on served as the musical director. With to watch them interact on stage. Their passing everyone’s expectations, and But "defense" was the word of the strategy and maneuvers. the level of energy, complexity of the performance mixed with the dancing we can only expect more of the same day here, as the Avon defenders held "I think we have just as good a production, excellent acting and trees, a caring aunt, an uptight royal from them in the future. Choate scoreless through three quar- chance as any to win the Founder’s ters. Choate only managed a consola- League Title this year, and as long as tion goal late in the game. our team continues to improve and The next day, the Men of Avon execute team and individual funda- Founder’s Day: Umbrellas Installed played their third game in four days mentals consistently, we have a good against an against Trinity-Pawling. chance to go all the way." BY STAFF WRITER Laferriere spoke at morning meeting each gate valued at nearly $3000. The Avon team relied on substitu- Best of luck to Coach Garber’s about installations. She informed Mrs. L concluded her discussion of tions to help keep fresh, as many of crew in the post-season. Founder’s Day is always a sur- the community that an installation is installation art by informing us that prise, but Founder’s Day 2005 held a a piece of art designed to occupy a an installation had been planned to surprise within a surprise when the public space for a temporary period. occupy some part of campus, but she Debunking the Chicken Myth: campus awoke on Friday, May 14 to One aspect of the motivating philos- withheld the details. After all, part A Statistical Breakdown of the Rectory Menu find one quarter of the Quadrangle ophy behind such creations is to of the new perspective provided by green covered with umbrellas typi- provide the observer with a fresh an installation depends on the ele- Dinner Lunch cally reserved for use in tropical perspective on what he or she may ment of surprise. The community Beef 46% drinks. No, this was not a senior have accepted as commonplace. was certainly surprised come Beef 31% Chicken/Turkey 21% prank; instead, it was Avon’s own art Mrs. L spoke about the recent instal- Founder’s Day morning. The Buffet 31% Buffet 16.5% project, an installation. A week lation done in Central Park. This Umbrella Installation provided a Chicken/Turkey 27% (Deli Sandwiches, soup) prior to this colorful surprise, Art massive project involved the arrange- subtle enhancement to a refreshing Pork 3.5% Italian 12.5% (Calzones, Department Chairperson Mrs. Gail ment of 7000 gates around the park, holiday. Italian 7.5% French Bread Pizza, (Spaghetti and meatballs Rotini withmeatsauce) &Pasta with meatballs) Grilled Cheese 4%

Total 100% Total 100%

The Avon Record Faculty Advisor Mr. Graham Callaghan ’95 Editors-In-Chief Dane Lemeris ’05 David Rothschild ’05 Associate Editor Junho Danny Yi ’05 Writers

John Ducci ’05 PHOTO BY Samuel Emmons ’05 Resident installation artists Brahm Wachter ’08 and Andrew Coco ’08 rose early on Founder’s Day to cover a por- Jackson Howard ’05 tion of the quadrangle lawn in tiny umbrellas. Porter Sargent ’05 Stefan Seitler ’05 Darkside Hits Avon Jack Bingham ’06 ture a full size band complete with rock music’s most influential and Sean Brown ’06 BY JOHN DUCCI ‘05 back-up singers from Miss Porter's must-have albums of all time. Joseph DiFiglia ’06 This year the performing arts School, a custom built, raised platform Featuring classics such as "Money," Josh Pavano ’06 department has raised the bar with stage, projection video show, profes- "Time," "Us and Them," "The Great Peter Theis ’06 their widely approved productions of sional audio, and the icing on the cake- Gig in the Sky," and others, Dark Side A Flea in Her Ear and The Wiz; how- - a full laser light and smoke show. The of the Moon has the ability to com- Mike Witkiewicz ’06 ever, the department will raise the bar extremely talented group has been pletely absorb a listener. The musicians Eric Wuelfing ’06 once again before graduationby setting hard at work since late March, and the are dedicated, and director Mr. Jeff Ben Kimmerle ’07 a new precedent: A spring musical pro- production looks to exceed any of the Miller has high hopes that the group duction based on the legendary Dark musicians’ or director’s original expec- will surpass their own and everyone Side of the Moon album by Pink tations of what would be attainable. else's expectations. The Avon Old Photographer Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the Moon Farms production of Pink Floyd's Hwi-Yoon Cheong ’05 Floyd. This show, which is scheduled to take place on Mr. Blue Stadium, will album has been heralded by listeners, Dark Side of the Moon is scheduled not cut any corners either. It will fea- musicians, and critics alike as one of for Friday, May 20th. Page 6 - The Avon Record Friday, May 27, 2005 Profiles Senior Profile: Senior Profile: Hwi-Yoon Cheong Brian Thorington By Danny Yi ‘05 One of the most outstanding stars in the Class of 2005 is, without a doubt, Hwi-Yoon "Bryan" Cheong. Hwi-Yoon came from Seoul, South Korea and said that he had explored a number of different options for sec- ondary school but chose Avon for its aesthetically unique campus. He described his feeling towards Avon as "although the campus attracted me at first, I came to love it because the friends that I have made throughout my four years here." He commented on his most memorable moments when he was in a triple room in Diogenes dormitory middle tower during his sophomore year with Dane Lemeris ’05 and me (laugh). He added, "It was my first time to be in a triple room and associate with different people and different person- alities, but it worked out very well. I made plenty of memories that I will never forget." You will probably describe him as "the smartest kid in the world" or possibly "Crimson Kid." And yes, he definitely earned his title for his high academic achievement success from the beginning of his freshman year. He was always on the Headmaster’s List (G.P.A. over 3.8), won countless book prizes, especially in his specialty for math and science, and won two PHOTO BY DANE LEMERIS, ‘05 PHOTO BY DANE LEMERIS, ‘05 Academic Achievement Awards for Hwi-Yoon Cheong outside the Ordway Science and Technology Center. Brian Thorington jams on the Village Green. 9th and 11th grade during the Commencement Ceremony. In addi- Chairman of the Math and Science Humanity, President of the Network BY DANE LEMERIS ’05 Thor said he will never forget is the tion, he had the privilege to be part Department, respectively. "They are Club, distinguished photographer for gorgeous campus and his time as of the Cum Laude Society in his jun- my two best teachers that I had dur- the Avon Record, Captain of the Perhaps you have seen him sit- part of it. He has spent countless ior year and on top of that, he is the ing my academic years and were my Junior Varsity soccer team, Captain ting out on the Jamerson Green hours down at the pond soaking up Valedictorian for the Class of 2005. driving forces who helped me to find of the Varsity Riflery team, and a playing his guitar one night after the sun and enjoying the peaceful When I asked him about his key to my potential in both math and sci- monitor in Elephant 2 dormitory. dinner or down at the pond one scenery; in fact, that is where he has success, he said, "I probably worked ence." Although he consolidated his He said he will miss "the special sunny afternoon. Wherever you see really honed his guitar playing. 10 times harder than anyone else and position as an exceptional student, he bond and fun that exist only in a this bright, talented individual, you Thor attributes many of the songs that made the difference." Hwi-Yoon managed to make tremendous con- boys school." He will carry his multi- have encountered a real man of that he has learned on the guitar to also reflected on his accomplish- nections on campus in the following ple talents and persistent work ethic Avon. I recently sat down with his practice time on the dock at ments under the teaching of Mr. capacities: President of the Math to Duke University in North Brian Thorington and asked him Beaver Pond. McElheny and Mr. Detora, League, President of the Habitat for Carolina. about himself, about Avon, and Thor has done so much for the about his life. Avon community. An active mem- Hailing from West Chester, ber in the Community Service Six Rumors for ‘06 Pennsylvania, "Thor," as he is more Club, attending every Habitat for commonly known throughout Humanity possible, a founding Avon, had no intentions at first of member of the Hacky-Sack Club, BY JOSH PAVANO AND JOE DIFIGLIA ’06 packing up and moving to New and a three-year member of soccer, England; in fact, he really wanted to hockey, and lacrosse teams, Thor Due to the new construction many rumors have been students to PG for stickball. attend a school much closer to has tackled everything that has been rustling through the seats of the theater about the 3. Headmaster’s day will be replaced with home. In a twist of fate, however, put in front of him. upcoming year and its outstanding soon-to-be seniors. Headmaster’s Week. he did not get accepted to the On the topic of graduation and Such rumors have been reported: 4. Pine Grove Elementary School will host the Avon school in Pennsylvania, so he was leaving Avon, I asked Thor what he 1. Senior Privileges will be distributed at the first Old Farms Basketball team; the seven foot hoops may forced to look elsewhere. His head- would miss most. For sure, I morning meeting on September 13 as compensation to prove to be a challenge, but surely we shall "Aspirando et master at his previous school, the thought he would answer the pond the ongoing construction throughout the year. Perserverando." Upland Country Day School, sug- and the gorgeous campus. I was a. Continental Breakfast sponsored by the 5. E & R will extend their services to room "clean- gested Avon Old Farms, and off surprised, however, to hear him say, Simsbury Dunkin Donuts; new Academic Dean Mr. Jim ing" hmmm... Thor went to look in Connecticut. "Yea, I’m going to miss the beautiful Detora, unable to resist the perk of free iced coffee, will 6. It’s not really an Athletic Complex; the large Surprisingly, he liked Avon better campus, but more importantly, I’ll take an additional position as manager of Simsbury ditch will be transformed into a new Beaver Pond, this than any school he had previously miss the people. The comfort I have Dunkin Donuts. time equipped with a rope swing. The $24 million left visited; thus, in the fall of 2002, with everyone here on campus is b. Every senior room will be equipped with a over will be used to renovate the dorms for their premier Thor packed up his guitar and amazing, and I don’t think anything flat screen TV. NFL TICKET and INTERATIONAL on MTV CRIBS. arrived at Avon, and he never will ever replicate that feeling." HOCKEY LEAGUE TICKET will be provided. Unfortunately these are all just rumors, but this commu- looked back. The more I thought about it, this is c. A new course will arrive riding the wave of nity will do our best to pull through and assist Mr. Jim Thor has really excelled at really what describes Thor the best. Moral Philosophy…Advanced Placement THE OC: It is Detora to attain his life goal as manager of Dunkin Avon in all aspects of school life. A He has a way of truly relating with Real Life, taught by Ms. Jennifer Hanson; it will only Donuts. If you have heard any more rumors you would strong student, a solid athlete, and a everyone he comes in contact with. meet every Thursday from 8pm to 9pm. like posted please do not send a mass email but call us at very talented musician, Thor has No matter how little you might 2. All Roll’n 80’s members will be the first group of 1-800-NOT-TRUE. had many great memories at Avon. know Thor, he will always say hello "I will never forget the lacrosse trips to you and he is always smiling. to Florida. Those were great." That’s just the way Thor is. Interested in writing for the While playing sports has always Thor will be attending been memorable for Thor (or per- Northeastern University in Boston, Avon Record? haps some of them are only memo- Massachusetts where he hopes to rable because he can’t remember major in Structural Engineering. Send an e-mail to them after he suffered 3 concussions He hopes to someday become an [email protected] on Thirds Soccer), one thing that architect. Friday, May 27, 2005 The Avon Record - Page 7 Closing Remarks

BY DANE LEMERIS ‘05 overjoyed to say that I was captain of two different varsity sports during my I never thought this would get senior year. Each and every thing here. Here I am finishing up my last that I have done here at Avon has issue of the Avon Record, I have meant so much to me, and I will begun packing my room, my classes remember it forever. are finishing up, and I have taken off When I leave in the coming days an Avon uniform for the last time. there are many things that I will miss Without getting all nostalgic and about Avon. The architecture…is gooey (or have I already?), I thought not one of them. Yes, the brown it appropriate to revisit my years at stone buildings can be gorgeous in Avon and give you a "senior’s per- the right light and the small, cozy spective" on four memorable years on rooms can seem fun, but I have four "the Farm" to issue a formal farewell years of bruised heads from the low to a place where I have grown and ceilings and four years of cramped have come to love. spaces where the infectious Avon dis- Avon has truly been a safe har- eases spread like wildfire. I have bor for me. I can truly say that I feel endured four long, drawn-out winters comfortable here. Although I may with what seems like two hours of say differently when I’m in such a sit- sunlight and freezing cold tempera- PHOTO BY MR. PATRICK MURRAY uation, I am happiest when I am in tures. Yes, the atmosphere can be the middle of a five page paper, have great…but I’m ready to move on. to organize the next meeting of a club More than anything else, though, I I have ever had, Mr. Jason Junior Varsity, Mr. Buechler. Man, would like to mention a few members while sorting out what was done at am going to miss the people that I Cummings. His bold but compas- have I learned how wrong I was. This of the student body who have had a the previous meeting of another club have interacted with here at Avon. sionate style of teaching was a terrific year I have had the pleasure to work profound impact on my life; Junho Yi and then have to run to practice For instance, I must mention the match for my style of learning, and with Mr. Buechler, and I am so ’05, Hwi-Yoon Cheong, ’05, and Erik where on my way, I have to stop by wonderful bond that I have created his mastery of the Spanish language incredibly honored to have had this Kapchus, ’05 my three roommates someone’s office to drop off a home- with Mr. Peter Deckers, ’90 and his meshed with his hard work ethic opportunity. Mr. Buechler is an and best friends, David Rothschild, work assignment, which I have been family. Throughout my entire life I made him one of the best teachers at extraordinarily motivated and dedi- ’05, Jay Murray, ’05, Justin Oliver, working on for over two days and have never met such a caring individ- Avon. cated person. He will never say ’05, Joshua Pavano, ’06, Tyler finally finish by getting more work to ual. From the moment I set foot into I have never told anyone this "can’t" and will listen to anyone, no Haddad, ’07, Juan Parra, ’07, and do. A good friend used to tell me, his Honors Biology class I knew that before and why I feel compelled to matter what you have to say. His Andrew LeClerc, ’08. These men "You sleep when you are dead," and there would be a bond between us, release such information in the Avon ideals are sound and his morals are have truly meant a great deal to me at Avon I was living this idea for four and I know that even after I graduate Record is not known to me. My true. He is a pure individual, and and, in my honest opinion, they are years and loving every minute of it. there will still be that bond. He and sophomore year at Avon I quit play- words cannot describe the admiration true leaders and genuine individuals. Yes, I am proud to say that I his family have touched my life, and I ing basketball because of Mr. Kevin I have for him. Many thanks to them and to the rest took four Advanced Placement class- am forever grateful for their kindness Buechler. During my freshman year I And now to the student body: I of the student body. es my senior year. I am ecstatic to say and support. was the MVP on the Thirds am both inspired and truly impressed And so I guess this is it. These that I am leaving my post as president One faculty member that I have Basketball team, and I would go early by all that you have done. You have have been the fastest four years of my of five different clubs and organiza- already said goodbye to but would be to watch some of the JV practice and taught me so much both about myself life. Yes, the fastest but most assured- tions to which I have devoted a remiss not to mention is the teacher was honestly scared of the booming and about life in general. All of you ly the best. Thank you all for making majority of my time at Avon. I am that I consider to be the best teacher voice of the then Head Coach of have done this, but in particular I it so. Goodbye and God bless.

BY DAVID ROTHSCHILD ‘05 While freshman year was full of great rendition of "Ain’t No Mountain in now. Treat them with the respect great. There were relatively few prob- memories, like getting painted in the High Enough." To this day I do not that you would like them to give lems on the hall, and life was good. It seems like it was just the other day quad for the Avon-Deerfield football know what came over us all, but as you." I have never heard truer words. About two months into the year, a that my parents dropped me off in game, construction of the Ordway soon as we could hear the music blast- From that moment on, I was few squabbles began. Almost every- front of Diogenes four years ago. Science and Technology Center, and ing, we all joined Marvin and sang. changed. I no longer judged people one, including me, had something to Barely five feet tall and about ninety- class with Mr. Chandra Narsipur (our Although most of us figured we by what grade they were in, or what whine about. I knew that despite my five pounds, I had no idea what I was all-time favorite teacher), nothing will would just joke around and sing the position they held at school; instead, I own problems, it was my duty as a in for. One thing I did know was that ever amount to the times we had that rest of this song, one song became treated everybody the same way. I monitor to put my own problems I had been given an opportunity to year on the 2001 Thirds Football two, and two songs became three and have carried this message throughout aside and help the kids on my hall. attend a very prestigious school, and I team. While the guys we had on the before we knew it we had sung with my time here at Avon: Do unto oth- While this was a difficult task, over was going to seize the opportunity. team were fun, exciting, and most the radio the entire ride home from ers as you would have done unto you. time I became better versed in the art Coming from a coeducational day importantly athletic, we were terrible. Hotchkiss. I don’t even remember a This is truly one thing that has helped of monitoring. I learned how to solve school on the outskirts of Manhattan, Whether we ran the ball, threw the single play from the game, but I do me become the Avonian I am today. all kinds of problems and learned New York, I knew Avon Old Farms ball, or punted, rarely would things remember us all bellowing out the During the summer before my junior leadership qualities that I will have was sure going to be a change. go our way. Of course this does not chorus to several pop songs the whole year, I received a letter from Avon Old with me the rest of my life. Although While of course there was a stage seem as if it has the makings of a great way home… Farms. As I tore the letter open and it was a tough job and took up quite a where I had to adjust to living in a experience, but nonetheless, this hor- When I came back to Avon for my read it, a feeling of pride and accom- bit of time, I could not see myself as dormitory with forty or so other kids, rific football team was able to produce sophomore year, I was changed. I was plishment rushed my body. The the person I am today without having that did not last long and soon some great memories… no longer the little freshman that I administration had offered me the the experience of being a monitor. enough I was on my way to becoming …We were driving back from once knew; in fact, I thought that I chance to become a monitor, a posi- Throughout my four years at Avon an Avonian. Freshman year was Hotchkiss after being pummeled 42-6 was hot stuff because I had been tion that I had wanted since my first Old Farms I have learned so much. I incredible. I had come to Avon know- on a freezing, fall day. Nobody really around the block. Lucky for me I was days at Old Farms. This job entailed have discovered so much about inter- ing absolutely nobody, and by the end wanted to say anything because we all able to claim the same room for the responsibility and courage. I knew acting with other people, being a of the first week, I felt as though I feared that Coach Roller and Coach second year in a row on Mr. Murphy’s that being a monitor as a junior was leader, and balancing everything that knew everybody. I became involved in Bergenty would tear into us if we did. hall, quite a popular place to be at the really an honor, and I was certain that is important to me. While I am soon the school. I joined clubs, played on In the remote silence, we could all time. I have to admit that sophomore I would do anything not to mess up. I leaving Avon for higher education, I three sports teams, and made an effort barely hear music coming from the year was somewhat strange. I was was told to report to school a few days will never forget the experiences that I to reach out to both other students speakers in the ceiling of the bus. still an underclassman, but I had early so that I could attend a monitor have had here. I will never forget the and the faculty. I was truly thriving. I While it was hard to make out the some authority. I could tell freshman orientation seminar to prepare for the teachers that have had influences on honestly could not believe how well I words of the song, after a few minutes to do this and that, and I could get upcoming year. I was now across the me, and most importantly I will never was doing both socially and academi- we all knew what we were hearing. away with it. This did not last very quadrangle living in Eagle on Mr. forget the friends that I have made in cally. Prior to coming to Avon, bal- Upon request from one of our cap- long. My monitor at the time pulled Crocker’s hall. As the students arrived my time here. Without friends and ancing these two things was a serious tains, Coach Roller was asked to me aside and said, "While I know it is on my hall, I was very excited. I have family, we are nothing in this world problem for me, but with the struc- please turn up the volume on the cool to have some authority now, you to admit, I was a little nervous as well. and Avon Old Farms School has cre- tured life that AOF created for me, I radio. It was truly beautiful. The radio have to realize that you were once in I wanted the kids to like me but also ated and made both of those a reality was able to flourish in both aspects. station was playing Marvin Gaye’s the position that those freshman are respect me. The first few weeks were for me. Page 8 - The Avon Record Friday, May 27, 2005 Closing Remarks

BY DANNY YI ‘05

It has been a long journey since 2001 when I first stepped onto this artistic campus. Having seen three commencement ceremonies and sending off too many close seniors that I have related with every year since freshman year, I thought it was nearly impossible to be in the same position wearing a black hat and gown. Now, in some sense, I am expe- riencing some sort of a condition, which Mr. LaRocque might call, "sep- aration anxiety." Now, I hear the word "last" in every situation. This is your last athletic competition, this is your last class, or this is the last time you will spend your weekend on cam- pus. And yes, this will mark my last issue of the Avon Record, as well. Probably that is what I desperately, unconsciously waited for during my four years here-- to be freed from what we often called "the cell"; yet, it is sometimes disturbing or often times I can feel a little chill creeping down my body when I see the calen- dar count off towards commence- ment. I can remember clearly draw- ing a huge "X" with a black marker on my calendar as a daily routine just to leave campus for home. I can remember the days counting D-Day when it is near vacation. Spring vaca- tion and summer vacation used to be the number one highlight of the year, but now, I regret the days that I have spent in waste during my times here at Avon. I am close to taking off the big "A" uniform with solid, beautiful colors of blue and red after the Track & Field New Englands Champ- ionship. I am near the end, close to separating from friends that I thought I would never depart from. It is from time to time surprising that you do not realize how precious people become until you actually separate from them. That is how relationships form significance and, thus, friend- ship is probably the best thing that I will take from Avon. Yet, I was not always sure of my life here. I was extremely doubtful of a success at Avon when it was time to decide to study in the states; however, the busy time schedule kept me from being terrified. The beginning of my freshman year and looking upon bulked seniors was quite frightening. Not to mention, I was also in some way jealous, pondering and question- ing, "When will I be just like them who seem to be really mature?" When I finally reached my senior year and observed the underclassmen, I sin- cerely missed those days because as an underclassmen not only were you rel- atively relaxed and unrestrained from numerous responsibilities, but you had another three years ahead of you to make lasting memories. An Avon routine was at first PHOTO BY MR. PATRICK MURRAY annoying. Morning meeting was a hassle, traditional sit down meals made me uncomfortable because I letic competition. I am going to miss day. I will probably miss the "What’s and memories that I can reminisce Senior Community Service Day will was a reserved kid, and the relentless the jokes that my next door friend or up?" that I used to hear from every about, I have also seen Avon change be a keepsake to unite the Class of times that were spent in many areas roommate threw out at random student when I walked toward the immensely, including the new science 2005. Sadly, I have come to a point were just too much for me. I look times. I am going to miss the faculty classrooms or the refectory. building, the new Track & Field facil- when I must say good-bye to every- back now and say, "Wow, I am going who were always present from day Although I truly believed once ity, the Winged Beaver mascot, and thing I have done, to every friend, to miss those days." one until the day I will leave campus. that four years would be a long way to the new athletic complex that is under and to Avon. Class of 2005 is, with- I am going to miss cheering and I am going to miss the cool hand go through, I understand at this construction (I have the hard hat to out a doubt, the best class there was, yelling "Avon" that truly brought the shake and a brotherly hug or a pound instant that four years was not mark the moment). The T-shirts that and the only class that I cannot expect team together as one before every ath- on the back that I used to do every enough. Although there are friends were designed for the first annual any more from. Guys, we did it!