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Mélange2012

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MélangeWriting and Art from

Morristown-Beard School2011-2012

“Mélange mine own, the unseen and the seen,mysterious ocean where the streams empty.” - Walt Whitman

Cover photo - Hailey Winterbottom

Mélange editorial staff - Priya Aggarwal, Amogh Anakru, Jeana Henderson, Blake Kernen, Olivia Land, Arielle Moss, Lucy Thoroman, and Sarah Yamashita Faculty advisor: Holly DarbyArt faculty advisor: Cynthia Hamilton

Special thanks to all the faculty who contributed pieces from their students and helped to proofread the edition, the individual students who submitted their pieces and helped with word processing, and Mrs. Lisa Swanson, Interim Head of the Middle School, and Mr. Peter Caldwell, Headmaster, for their support.

Mélange has been designated “Superior” by the NCTE.

Photo - Ryan Waters

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Table of ContentsLiterature Art and Photography

Amogh Anakru p. 4, 13, 22, 35Gus Capatides p. 5,8Alissa Masini p. 5, 43, 62William Mallen p. 6, 10, 63Patrick Davis p. 6, 29, 40Hailey Winterbottom p. 7, 9Annabel Pruitt p. 7, 62, 68Grayson Everett p. 8Bella Cuomo p. 8Mark Timchenko p. 9Alexie Snook p. 9, 44Meg Damstrom p. 10, 11, 13, 29, 42Corey Joskowitz p. 10Jeana Henderson p. 10Emily Hromin p. 10, 54, 55Madeline Carroll p. 12Patrick Ryan p. 12William Segal p. 12, 42Harris Johnson p. 12Spencer Bridges p. 13Sophie Richman p. 14Grace Hromin p. 14Olivia Lombardi p. 14, 39Isabelle Fagan p. 16, 36, 48Matthew Enman p. 16, 17Brady Wilson p. 17, 18, 30William Stitt p. 18, 31, 34, 63Priya Aggarwal p. 18Colin Patterson p. 18, 44Alex Borowiec p. 18Sara Seuffert p. 19, 31Daniella Petrocelli p. 20Lara Gajewski p. 21Casey Andrews p. 24, 41Connor Heffernan p. 24Julia Rogala p. 24Caroline Bernardon p. 24Courtney Ober p. 25Hannah Fuller p. 25, 66

Jadyn Lawrence p. 29Jared Cohen p. 29Jenna Dertouzos p. 33, 61Sarah Yamashita p. 38, 39Blake Kernen p. 38, 67Ellie Buscemi p. 39Laurel Parker p. 39Arielle Moss p. 49Jack Collins p. 50, 52Kendall Cairoli p. 51Zaire Alston p. 53Ryan Fisher p. 54Lauren Conway p. 55, 62Thomas Pickthall-Healey p. 55, 59Peter Smith p. 56, 61Liam Garland p. 58Danny Porth p. 58, 61Natalie Pruitt p. 59Allie Esposito p. 59Dylan Henry p. 60Maeve Logan p. 60Tatiana James p. 61Connor Murray p. 61Steven Karbachinskiy p. 62Alexander Ives p. 62, 66Calvin Wetmore p. 62Sam Nickson p. 62Trevor Clemson p. 67

Hailey Winterbottom cover photoRyan Waters p. 2, 7, 8Calvin Wetmore p. 4, 11, 50Justin Connell p. 5, 67Connor Murray p. 6Meg Damstrom p. 9Tommy Margosian p. 10Zachariah Buteux p. 10Mollie Kiel p. 11Blake Kernen p. 13, 16, 28James Gorayeb p. 14Harrison Kusnierz p. 15Joshua Aracena p. 15Paige Williams p. 17Jaime Sheppard p. 18, 34, 57, 64Daniella Petrocelli p. 18Daniel Lombardi p. 23, 30, 37, 52Thomas Pickthall-Healey p. 25Taylor Jaskula p. 26Sarah Evans p. 27Emily Hromin p. 28Sarah Evans p. 31Spencer Bridges p. 32Julia Papas p. 33, 57Daniel Francis-Manshel p. 34Vincina Bivona p. 35, 51Alexa DiNorsico p. 36Ian Schramm p. 38, 45Mackensie May p. 39Casey Andrews p. 40, 46Kendall Cairoli p. 41, 55Madeline Carroll p. 42, 53Jackson Robillard p. 43Mikaeel Jan p. 44Matthew Enman p. 42Jake Kurz p. 48Jadyn Lawrence p. 49Zaire Alston p. 54James Duffy p. 58Grace Kellogg p. 59John Crispo p. 60Arabella Berman p. 62Olivia Land p. 65Gus Capatides p. 66Lauren Conway p. 68

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The Meaning of Poetry to Me

Poetry is a representation of one’s feelings, beliefs, and minds. In the form of verse, and embel-lished with rhyme, it is aesthetically pleasing to others. Ideas must be put like this because a work of poetry shows an idea hidden within the folds of rhyme and verse. Readers come to appreciate the inner meaning of poems as they do books. A good poet, while weaving the folds of poetry, must keep readers hooked by having them explore and analyze the poem. It is this exploration that and analysis that makes the reader crave more and keep reading as well as appreciate the poem and its significance.

by Amogh AnakruPoem About a Poem

Hidden deep insideIs a theme so broad and wideThe beautiful folds of rhymeLines, there are nineThree triplets make the verse.Banker, lawyer, nurse,All enjoy the poem’s meaning.Thinking, not noticing that they are leaning,

So engrossed are they in the masterpiece…

by Amogh Anakru

Calvin Wetmore

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The Great Outdoors

Nature.Surrounds us all.Provides for living things.As beautiful as a flower.Outdoors.

by Gus Capatides

A Blend of Two Worlds:Humanity and Nature

Traveling Through the Seasons

The colors change,And the leaves begin to fall, The road gets colder,And the nights come faster.

The moon howls like a wolf,Snow covers the ground like a white blanket,The New Year approaches,Hooray!

The flowers begin to bloom,And the birds begin to sing,The air is fresh,And the breeze runs by your ears.

The sun burns hot,And the days run long,School is out,Summer time fun by Alissa Masini

Justin Connell

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Approaching Winter

As temperatures drop and time passes byLeaves seem like they are waving to us from the skyQuickly, winter is approaching

Scarves and coats begin to appearAs children know, snow is almost hereQuickly, winter is approaching

For snow is in the forecast!But to children, it is amazing how slow time will passQuickly, winter is approaching

Today is the day that snow should comeNone has come yet, so kids go to sleep sad there is noneQuickly, winter is approaching

Kids wake up as surprised as can beThere is snow as far as the eye can seeAnd nowWinter is here

by Patrick Davis

Connor Murray

The Top of the World

Arctic Northern lights showChrome colors cross the skyBright blue and green blow up aroundColdness

by William Mallen

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Ski Lift

Sara, you know,Everyone seems to say something philosophical On the ski lift.It’s like your own timeTo just say anythingAbout life, love, anything.You could saySomething poetic, like“This sunset is a memory,That has just begun,”And no one will think you’re loopy,Because they appreciate your sentiments.Because I have this opportunityTo say whatever I please,I feel better.

by Annabel Pruitt

Ryan Waters

Vermont Mountains

I come to the green mountains Full of nature and life The air is clearAnd the silver waters are smooth as glassThe rain splashes across the lakeTurning it into an endless sea of ringsThe sky is blueThe sun is brightAnd even when it rains, The peace isn’t gone.

by Hailey Winterbottom

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Holiday, Oh Holiday

The snow was falling down from the sky.As soft as silk.The gifts were wrapped, The turkey was in the oven.The tree was up,Decorated and all.The children in suspenseFor Saint Nick’s annual ride.The houselights are lit, and cars start pulling in.The guest gather ‘round the warm fire.A time for family and friends, it is Christmas Eve.

by Gus Capatides

What it is Like to Snowboard

Well I tell you, snowboarding is like being one with yourself.If you don’t believe me, it’s like the peanut butter to your jelly. it’s the syrup to your pancakes, I think you get the point. You are with your friends having a great time; your board slides swiftly through the snow. You are connecting all your turns, dude; it’s like a flow you can’t comprehend. Swiftly moving catching air, I tell ya I have so much fun snowboarding. Even waiting on the lift with my friends; it’s fun as we decide what run we are going to do.

By Grayson Everett

Ryan Waters

Winter Has Come

The snow is singingThe tall trees are whisperingWinter is alive

by Bella Cuomo

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Back to December

Without you, againIn the brisk of December My cold heart screams

Alexie Snook

Just One Day

It was December the day was crisp. The trees were stripped of their leaves and snow covered the ground. The wind blew slightly, making the trees sway with it. A man in the street huddled up in his coat, walking through the slush. The wind became faster; he had to bundle up tight. The strong wind took his hat off and ran with it. He had to chase it down. A nice man caught it for him. He thanked him. Hours later, as the day went on, it began to flurry. The snow covered trees started to sag with the weight of the snow. The snow began to come down harder, making the hard, frozen ground become covered in the fluffy, white snow. A red painter’s van was driving along. It had to go slowly due to the snow. Finally a plow came and salted the wet, slushy ground. The slush was turned into runny water by the salt. Day turned into night, and it became cold. The wind picked up, swaying the trees, blowing the snow off of them. The temperature dipped more, turning the snow into ice, making the roads unsafe. Now at this hour, most of the small towns’ residents were sleeping. As the night faded away, the morning came. The town came back to life, ready for another beautiful winter day. by Mark Timcenko

Meg Damstrom

Snowflakes

Snowflakes Silver DiamondsSparkling as they fall downLovely as a glass chandelierCrystals

by Hailey Winterbottom

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Post Storm

Tress breezing brisklyThe skyline’s soaring snow sleepsCloudy cast clears up

by William Mallen

Rain...PLEASE!!!!!

We are hot and dryOh G*D will you try?Our plants won’t growThere is no grass to mowWe are in need of rainWill you relive us of our PainIf you please help,I will eat a lot of kelp

by Corey Joskewitz

Rain

Trees dance in the windRain pours down onto the roofWait for the rainbow

by Meg Damstrom

Waterspouts

Zachariah Buteux

The Lone Lily

A lily lingers Alone in the azure poolFloating far, far away

by Emily Hromin

Tommy Margosian

Grandfather Tree

The grand oak tree swaysAs it goes about its dayThe bright sky turns gray

by Jeana Henderson

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Flower Sunshine

Flowers are like bursts of sunshineAlways brightening your dayFrom tulips to rosesThey are beautiful in every single wayPink, Yellow, and orange are just a few colorsMaking you smile, and never greyYou can find them anywhereEven by the bayWhenever sad just pick up a flowerAnd that bad feeling will suddenly go awayAlthough not for touchingPeople seem to always want to playFlowers are a beautiful presentBut sadly, they are not long to stay.

by Meg Damstrom

Calvin Wetmore

Mollie Kiel-Water Hyacinth-Scence Class

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Sunscreen

Sunscreen is the bomb. Protects you in the summer.Somehow I still burn.

by Madeline Carroll

A Sunny Day

A sunny dayWaking up lateListen to children playing BounceBounceA war of ants running away from the humansLeaves falling in the air in your happy hairThe warm breeze in your face like you ‘re on vacation In HawaiiSwoosh SwooshCrunching every step you walk on the leaves Crunch CrunchAs the day goes on the sun went down and The children went to bed getting ready for the next day

by Patrick RyanOde To Water

There is lots of it, as far as the eye can see,Whether it be in a glass, a river or the sea.It is an important resource on this earth, one that makes the world go round,And one that keeps us safe and sound.

It is all around us, every which direction you go.When it is melted, it is even found in the ice and snow.It is something used in many ways.Like keeping plants hydrated for days.

It is also used for washing and drinking And keeping the ships floating not sinking.One use is also to create nice scenes, It’s places like Niagara Falls, if you know what I mean.

It’s this resource that a living being cannot live without,And I definitely say this without a doubt. The thing I am speaking of is something that people like in their drinks colder, not hotter, And what it is, is none other than.... WATER!

by William Segal

Summer Time

SummerSandy, wet beachKite flying in the airCold water washing on my feetWarm sun

by Harris Johnson

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The Sea

The sea pulls back,Prepares for its attack,Then pushes out a great wall,Moving toward land,Fishing boat, swept aside As if it were a toyThe great wave, white-crestedBring disaster in its wakeNot like any other,Too much to sustain,The wave destroys allOblivious of its path.

by Amogh Anakru

Blake Kernen

Beach

Waves roll in the surfSun beats downBurning cool water

by Meg Damstrom

Ode to Ocean

There is no other feeling when I ride the waves you make.It feels like I am flying,Like a bird.

The thrill when you go down the face of the wavesIs both terror and exhilaration.No wave is exactly like the one behind it,Every one is different,Just like someone’s fingerprints.

Nothing comparesTo the excitement you give me. Riding waves is my addiction.

by Spencer Bridges

White Caps

The big waves roar like thunderPeaking white caps look like snowDaring me to surf

by Spencer Bridges

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A Day in High School

The chairs are as hard as rocksThe students eat their own socksThe lockers are as small as antsThe kids don’t wear their pantsThe smart board is unclear as foggy glassesThe chairs make me itchy and give me rashesThe doors are stuck as thick wallsThey don’t let us walk so we have to crawlThe janitors are as gross as pigsThe teachers wear distracting wigsThe posters on the wall are telling you to dieThe kids are making me want to cryWhat’s that you say? I WENT TO THE HIGH SCHOOL TODAY!

by Olivia Lombardi

Life is a Book

When you open the first page you feel like someone was just born.As you continue, sometimes it is good, sometimes it is bad.There are interesting parts and some very boring parts.In the middle, things seem not so easy.At the end, things start to slow down, and you take it much more seriously.When you are in the final chapters, you look back and see how good things Were.

by Sophie Richman

Stupid School Shoes!

I really hate my new school shoesThey hurt so much I have the bluesClank, Clank, Clank is the noise they makeAnd after a while my feet acheAll the girls have really cute flatsAnd I have shoes that look like ratsThe shoes are gray, definitely not pinkI feel bad for my poor little feetBut hopefully they forgive me in a weekAt least you don’t have to wear the shoesAnd suffer through all this abuse! by Grace Hromin

James Gorayeb

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Harrison Kusnierz

Joshua Aracena

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The Intruder

“Woof, woof,” says the dog. “I don’t like you.”“Growl- look how ferocious I am.”“You should be scared of me.”“I will chase you for miles and miles because I can run forever.”“Sniff- you smell like trouble.”“Don’t give me that look- just leave.”“Leave, I say. This is my house and I am the boss around here.”“Ruff. How come every time I bark at you, you bark back at me?”“And how come every time I walk by, you’re standing there, watching me?”“But, I must say- you are good lookin’.”“Almost as good lookin’ as me.”“But I still hate you, dog in the mirror.”

by Isabelle Fagan

How to Get a Treat by Sitting

Be calm like the dead.Butt down and tail out, wagging,Biggest rule- don’t beg!

by Isabelle Fagan

Blake Kernen

The Gentle Giant

Lazy Newfoundlands,Sleeping wherever they can.They look like big bears.

by Matthew Enman

My Valentine

My valentine has…A wet nose, four little pawsFurry ears, a tail

by Isabelle Fagan

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Traits of the New Yorker

A Chihuahua is…A Chihuahua is a small, puny, little, dog.A Chihuahua is a very noisy, yappy dog.A Chihuahua is feisty towards people it doesn’t know.A Chihuahua is a very popular dog for celebrities.A Chihuahua is a very comical little critter.A Chihuahua is VERY difficult to housebreak.A Chihuahua is usually social with its own breed.A Chihuahua is a dog that snuggles with you.A Chihuahua is, finally, one loving pooch.

by Matthew Enman

Paige Williams

I Knew She Was The One

Are we there yet? No, not yet!How about now? In 10 minutes! Ugh, come on! Just be patient.Are we there now? Yes!When we entered the room three little schnauzer Puppies sprinted to me!Immediately I saw her, andI knew she was the one.I picked her up and took her to the car while my Parents paid for her.When my parents came out to the car they asked me, Are you sure?I said definitely, becauseI knew she was the one.

by Brady Wilson

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Flores de Mayo

Duchas de abril.Traen flores de mayo.Mi gusta mayo.

by Brady Wilson

Outside

Out there.Out in the air.Freely roaming. With a lot of freeTime to spare.Outside.

by William Stitt

Autumn Breeze

Autumn Nature’s PartyLeaves dancing to the groundTrees swaying to sounds of the windPeaceful

by Priya Aggarwal

Jaime SheppardOde to the Beach

Ode to the beachSoaking up the sunWind in my hair Swimming in the OceanThe majestic views The seagulls chirping Surfers surfing People talking Sand flying around Packing up the car Watching the beach Vanish Away

by Colin Patterson

Caribbean Vacation

Sparkling blue waterGentle breezes Relaxing days entertaining nightsWater as warm as the sunBright, blazing sunHot, sandy shoresPalm trees as far as the eye can seeMany jet skis zooming pastTropical music in the airThe Caribbean is like paradise

By Alexander Borowiec

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El DC Maravilloso

Una viaje de bus de 5 horas comienza nuestro viaje,La primera parada es en el newseum,En la gira de noche caminamos a través de los monumentos,Al día síguente a Arlington fuimos,A continuación, en la 4-H nos paramos para el descanso de la tarde,Para un desafío de casas, Ganado por los Athenians,Termina con otro viaje de bus de 5 horas.

DC The Marvelous

A five-hour bus ride begins our trip,The first stop is at the Newseum,On the night tour we walk among monuments,The next day, to Arlington we go,Next, at the 4H we stop for the afternoon break,For a house challenge, won by The Athenians,It ends with another five-hour bus ride.

by Sara Seuffert

Daniella Petrocelli

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New York

It is Monday. It is 8 o’clock in the morning. The Picon family is going to New York. Mr. Picon and Mrs. Picon and their kids take a train to the airport and arrive in New York at 10:30. Therese yells, “I want to go to the M&M store.” “Yes, me, too!” Arnaud responses. They take the train and they walk to the M&M store, but the M&M store is closed! Mrs. Picon says, “We can go to Dylan’s Candy Bar.” They go to the store and buy a lot of candy. Arnaud and Mrs. Picon buy Snickers and Twix, but Mr. Picon and Therese buy Reeses and Jolly Ranchers. After, they return to their hotel and they eat their candy. After, they go to bed.

by Daniella Petrocelli

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The Stadium

Arnaud and Therese go to the stadium. They watch a soccer game. Arnaud’s friend wants to play soccer. He runs into the stadium and yells, “I am very excited!” Arnaud and Therese run after him. They go to their place and watch their friend. They eat some hamburgers and watch the game. “Whoosh! Whoosh!” they watch that ball go into the goal. “Bravo!” Arnaud’s friend yells. Therese says, “Your friend is very handsome.” She looks at Arnaud. He responds, “Yuck!” Sud-denly, his friend won!! Arnaud’s friend is very excited.

After the match, Arnaud’s friend says, “Therese, you are very cute.” Therese says, “Thanks!” by Lara Gajewski

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A Breakfast Dialogue Between Scientists

September 30, 1928, Fleming’s laboratory: Fleming had just accidentally contaminatedlab samples of staphylococci bacteria. He put them in an unfavorable place, thus resultingin the samples’ contamination by a certain mold. Alexander Fleming works as assistantbacteriologist to Sir Almorth Wright. Today Sir Wright will hear about this miraclecould-be-medicine.

AW: Good morning, Mr. Fleming. I will quite enjoy hearing about your mysteriousmold today during breakfast.AF: Yes, we shall discuss this over a steaming bowl of porridge. If my mold iseffective as a cure-all, then I wouldn’t be worried if it suddenly develops on mymeal.AW: Ha, very funny. But as you know, I would like to hear the facts.AF: Yes, as you say.AW: So how were you messing around with bacteria that day?AF: Well, it certainly wasn’t planned. On that fateful day, the third of September1928, I placed some samples of bacteria in a place where many molds and othercontaminants are likely to sprout up. Well, they did, and all my bacteria died. Iwas intrigued, and I grew a pure sample. I then knew it was Penicillium notatum.AW: Why keep those samples? They are garbage!AF: On the contrary! That mold killed the bacteria, right?AW: Yes…AF: And that bacterium makes people ill, right?AW: True…what are you hinting at?AF: If a person gets sick, then we can use that mold to cure the person!AW: How absurd and foolish! Whoever heard of feeding mold to people? That is whatmakes us ill.AF: There are different species of molds. This one, my newly discovered Penicilliumnotatum, will have the potential to help people feel better.AW: If you burn a human, no doubt it kills the bacteria, but the human will fare nobetter!AF: Fire and Penicillium notatum differ greatly. Many vegetables and plants areregularly consumed. They do not harm us…they even help us.AW: Mold is not a vegetable.AW: Neither is lettuce or cabbage! They are just leaves! Yet we eat them.AW: …AF: My point is that you cannot judge an organism by its taxonomy- or, if I may quotethe famous adage, a book by its cover.AW: What if I tried to imply that all fire isn’t bad? Or, what if all poisons were notbad?AF: You are making a moot comparison. How is fire and poison similar to this mold?AW: They aren’t.AF: You cannot make an analogy willy-nilly and try to express an idea like that.AW: I see your point…but I see a fatal flaw in your idea. .......... by Amogh Anakru, Science Class

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Daniel Lombardi

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Bad Day

Once upon a time,I woke up in the morning I thought it was going to be a normal day, And then BOOM!I remember that I have a huge Spanish test! First I got scared,But then I remember! There wasn’t a Spanish test! So I gave up, I knew it was all over after that...

by Casey Andrews

Home Alone

I can’t remember why,My mom said goodbye.I’m home alone now,Do I see a pink cow?It’s in the corner of my room,Wearing a green bathing costume.Its seems bigger than the Eiffel Tower,I do wish I had super power.So I turn around slowly,Just to see a colossal ravioli.It smells like a can of rotten sardines,But it’s wearing a par of skinny jeans.This is a fairly awkward situation,Starts giving me brain constipation.I’m feeling cosmically scared,That my short life will not be spared.So I finally decide to open my eyes,Just to see my mom cooking sardine glazed French fries.

by Julian RogalaThe Walk

I need to go the store; won’t you drive me please?Really don’t make me walk in the season of no leaves.The sidewalks use their hands to trip me, can’t you see?Ow! I cannot walk; I think I just broke my knee.The store is hours away;It may take me all day!Crack, crack the ice will go.When I fall down, oh no.Night is here, I can’t see with my eyes.Would you make me walk, please tell me why?The hail is as big as a boulder,What if one lands on my shoulder?The cold… what? What did you say?You will drive me, well okay!

by Connor Heffernan

I Want to Move

The Caribbean is better than a picture with paintEvery time I hear the word New Jersey, I think I will faintWhy does the Caribbean have to be so far?I think there is a murderer in my backyard!If I don’t move there, I will explode,This cold air is more than I can hold.The water here can make me sick,Let’s not forget the gross black ticks!My source of fuel is the Caribbean sand,Please help me move –I really need a tan.If I go, I won’t feel blue.Oh, do you want to come, too?

by Caroline Bernardon

25My Backyard

A sunny dayMid- afternoonMy eyes grasp on to the forest life that are as green as a grasshopper.The sun is smiling down on meAnd the robin’s egg skyI breathe in through my noseAnd out through my mouth smelling the fresh airGoose bumps grow up my armsThe sound of cars passing by, far away, makes my ears jump off my headWhoosh…A lovely breeze blows through the treesI can’t imagine living anywhere else.GRATITUDE

by Courtney Ober

Equine Love

Energetic and beautifulQuite fun to watch playUnique colorsIs fun to rideNoteworthy and majesticExcellent companion to lonely people

Love them like no otherOver the jumps they soarVivacious and vigorous personalityEyes are glistening jewels

by Hannah Fuller

Horse in Summer

Horse grazes in fieldTail whipping because of fliesSun beats down harshly

by Hannah Fuller

Thomas Pickthall-Healey

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Taylor Jaskula

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Sarah Evans

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Emily Hromin

Blake Kernen

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A Dark, Busy Night On 16th Avenue

Cars lined up like a trail of antsTheir bright headlights shining Roar Went the cars as they drove by The army of treesReaching overReady to take me awayClip-ClopA bear of a man walked by my doorThe loud chatter of the people around me Finally came to rest in peaceThe bitter cold air nipping at my fingertips This is 16th avenue

by Jadyn Lawrence

New York City

I love your bright lightsI love the opportunities you provide me withI love the memories you fill me withI love all the history you have to offerI love spending time with my family I love thinking everyday about “The Lion King”I love thinking about my 13th and 14th birthday at Gyu-KakuI love how the energy takes my breath awayI love the personalities of the people walking in the streetsI love the way you overcame that one unfortunate dayI love everything about you

by Patrick DavisA Day At MetLife Stadium

An autumn dayLate at nightThe sounds of roaring fansOn the green fieldThe football players enterBlue for the GiantsRed for the 49ersCovering the field a red and blue like Swarming bees trying to get to their honeyThe third quarter starts The quarterback makes the calls“HIKE!!” the quarterback yellsSwooshThe ball flies in the airFilling the stadium with excitementThe ball, looking at its target,Dives down into a giant player’s armHe gets hit onceTwiceThree times And is finally down,UnconsciousHe falls and his day is over

by Jarod Cohen

The Big Game

Hey fans, are you ready to play?Sunday’s big game will be against Green BayI know from the New York and aroundAll my Giant fans will be coming to townROARRR! Goes the crowd as we score our first downEli’s throwin’ passes to take the Packers downHanding off to Jacobs, running for the teamNow he’s scored a touchdown and has really made a scene.So who says you can’t win right from the start?Our New York Giants hold the win in their hearts.

by Meg Damstrom

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Daniel LombardiOxygen

Oh! Oxygen! Inhaled in and exhaled out.Invisible above and invisible below.It is fairly obvious that I will not see you.But because of you, I am here today!I do not know how to thank you enough.If I expel you, you will turn into CO2.Trust me, CO2 ain’t right for you.Then you will travel across the land Just waiting to be inhaled.But wait! I know someone just for you!

by Brady Wilson

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Movements of Softball

I whipped my arm around,Then came down,I released the ball,

And it flew tall,The batter took a step,

The swing’s prep,Began to move her hands,

They stood up in the stands,Under the bat the ball went,

And to the glove it sent,That was 2nd strike, 2 outs,

In the corner of my eye I saw the scouts,Last pitch to go,

I’m going to aim low,Whip, I let go of the ball,

And I watch it fall,I closed my eyes,

And I had won the prize,Out, I heard,

It was the third,We had won,

Now we were done.

by Sara Seuffert

What I Like

My name is William Stitt, and I likeTo rhyme. Rhymin’ everyday at every Time. But I also like to ski, though it Hurts my knees. Ouch! I say as I Plummet to the ground, feelin’ nothing Other than a big snow mound. ThoughWhat I like more than frostbite on my Lips, is to play a nice game of the sport Tennis. Tennis makes me happy, tennisMakes me proud, even though I’m Sometimes a little too loud. Even though This was very fun to do, I must go make Another poem for you.

by William Stitt

Sarah Evans

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Spencer Bridges

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So Much in Common

Ricky the Rhombus was walking down Right Angle Avenue when he decided to get an ice cream cone. He ordered his cone and sat down at a hexagonal table and he was hoping maybe he would meet 5 new friends. He was enjoying his strawberry cone, when a Parallelogram came up to him and said, “Why hello there, my name is Sally the Square! I think you and I would be great friends! We are so much in common. You like strawberry ice cream and so do I. Also, I can tell that you have 2 pairs of parallel sides, just like me! We are both quadrilaterals. We both have all congruent sides. Isn’t that cool?” Ricky the Rhombus was surprised that he had so many things in common with Sally the Square, and he had only just met her. He said, “Yes! That is so cool. I think we would be amazing friends. You know, there is a new movie out called “Princess Polygon”. It’s all about a princess and how she gets lost and finds all these different shapes. They help her get back to Prince Pentagon in the Pentagon Castle! It seems so exciting! Would you like to go see it with me at the Rectangular Theatre down the street?” Sally the Square was so happy! She said, “Of course! It’s on Perpendicular Way, right?” Ricky the Rhombus said, “Yes! I will meet you at 3:00!”

By Jenna Dertouzos Math Class

Julia Papas

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What I Love About Florida

What I love about Florida, are the big blue seas,as they “Splash” and they “Crash” right on the beach. I love the everlasting sunny days, castingHuge rays of light on every place. I love the smell ofSalt on crisp warm days, as I laughand play everyMinute of every day. I also love the Under-crowdedBeaches, where you can snorkeland dive, without Hearing, “Hey!” Lastly, I love Spending the holidaysat Florida, being able to have a Carefree time at thePlace that I adore.

by William Stitt

Daniel Francis-Manshel

Jaime Sheppard

35

Vincina BivonaThe Castaway

By Amogh Anakru

It was a calm day on Green Isle, sun shining, and leaves lazily waving with the breeze. However, in the palace of the wildcat chief, Crazar, the Sharp Clawed-one, it was anything but peaceful. “Silence!” shouted the wildcat. “You are all here to witness the punishment of a slave who spoke out against me and dared to even mark my face!” Crazar indicated a small scratch on his cheek. He signaled to a guard, and a mouse was dragged out. The mouse was wearing rags, tattered and torn from an apparent skirmish. He was wounded and bruised in several places, but the look on his face showed a spirit so strong, that not even death could make it wilt. He stared at Crazar as the wildcat issued an order to two of his ferret soldiers. “For this slave’s unspeakable crime, he shall receive one hundred lashes!” The slaves positioned on a small wooden bench, flanked by wildcat guards, gasped at the severity of this punishment. The mouse, however, just remained unmoved. “And now, the day has come for my son, the future ruler of Green Isle, to prove himself.” The chieftain’s son, Felazar, walked in. “Felazar, give this slave the hundred lashes!” With trembling paws, the prince took the whip. As he approached the unfortunate slave and lifted the whip, Felazar found that his paws would not obey; he could not whip the slave. Prince Felazar had always been the nonviolent type. That had earned him the displeasure of his father, but nonetheless, the prince was unequalled in the art of swordplay.

He did not know it at the time, but his show of mercy changed his future forever.

“Fool! This is the last time that I will put up with your cowardice!” roared Crazar with inordinate fury. “I’ll make such an example of you that no beast will ever be a coward!” Later, the unconscious form of Felazar, the castaway, was seen bobbing away from Green Isle on the mechanical movement of the waves...

36Love At First Sight

We walked into Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter on October 30, 2010.The first dog we saw was a cute, playful yellow-lab.The next dog we saw was the most adorable dog I have ever seen-A small, white and brown puppy named OllieWith the cutest ears and a wagging tail.For all six of us, it was love at first sight.We knew she was the one.My brother threw a toy for her, and she went and fetched it,My dad reached his hand into Ollie’s pen to pat the floor to get her to come,But he patted his hand in her pee.We knew she was the one.We learned that Ollie was a special needs doggie- she had a problem with her motor skills.This adorable puppy didn’t have a home just because she had a small problem.How sad is that?Anyway, it just made her even cuter.We knew she was the one.We went into a room to play with her.Ollie loved fetching the toys we threw for her, and she was playful.We heard that she was all the volunteers’ favorite dog,And that she would sleep on their laps all day.She was the perfect size.We knew she was the one.Forty-five minutes after we arrived,We heard an announcement over the loudspeaker in the shelter;“Ollie is going to a new home. If you would like to say goodbye to her,Please go to the front desk.”Five minutes after that,Six humans were walking out of the shelter with their new, beloved puppy.Do I believe in love at first sight?Thanks to Ollie, now called Abby, definitely.

by Isabelle Fagan

Alexa DiNorsico

37

Daniel Lombardi

38

The Poet

The poet sits at his deskThe only noise his aging ears grasp is his pen scratching parchment

He looks up, a dark shadow on his face, Wrinkles are the only marks

Stains of old ageHe is a lifeless descriptionIn a room white and bland

His colorful words concealed in black inkHe pricks his finger on his paper

Ink leaks from his handHe flutters to the floor

Resting thereFor eternity

by Blake Kernen

Commuters

Commuters are a school of fish.Traveling on the main current,They are tightly packed together,All heading in the same direction,Moving at the same speed.Steering clear, avoiding the many dangers of the sea,They are determined to reach their destina-tionOn time and unharmed.

by Sarah Yamashita

Ian Schramm

39

The Maid

has been doing her job for many years, and she is quite experienced.Although she is reliable and hard working, The racket she makes when cleaning is deafening.Since the sound is incredibly loud, Small pets hide and babies wail.

When she spots a banana peel or lone soda can,her eyes start glowing,her engine lets out a ferocious roar, and she zooms across the room with record breaking speed.Then she makes a strange sucking sound, And suddenly, the unwanted junk disappears.When all her work is done, she lets out a sigh and powers down for the day…

by Sarah Yamashita

The Chef

Is in the kitchen, Wearing a chef ’s coat,Sporting a bushy mustache.He stirs the pasta, Smells it, tastes the long noodle.He leans over the pot to smell,The boiling water in his face, Going up his nose and down his throat,Feels water all around.He feels as if he’s floating, free, Next thing he knows, he is in a bowl.

by Olivia Lombardi

The Designer

Sits in her chair staring at her sketch pad.She grabs her pencil and sketches her design.Staring at her work, she feels satisfaction.Quickly, she grabs her sewing supplies.She looks at her design and cuts out a piece of fabric.The needle weaves the fabric leaving a mark of thread.As she sews, she feels herself weaving through the design.Up and down she goes, creating a stylish masterpiece.

by Laurel Parker

The Gardener

He puts down his shovelWiping the cold, wet sweat and dirt from his face,Tired, stiff, and aching as he finishes up his day.He sits down, his skin covered in fresh, cool dirt, closing his eyes,And letting the cool wind whip through his leafy hair,Content never to move again.

by Ellie Buscemi

Mackenzie May-Gypsy MothScience class

40

Unbreakable Bonds

Son, I want you to sit down for a momentI just got a call, and unfortunately, Grandpa has diedI just want you to know I am here for youAnd I know Grandpa never had the chance to tell you…But he loved you so very muchHe would have done anything for youHe knew you were one very special kidHe was on cloud nine when we brought you home from the hospitalHe held you in his armsAnd rocked you back and fourth while smiling over youThat night, he put you in your cribAnd sat next to you in his chair until you fell asleepNever in my life time have I seen your Grandpa smile so muchYou had a special bond with your Grandpa, and he knew thatAnd that bond was something so specialThat no matter where he isHeavenOr on EarthYour bond with Grandpa can never be broken

by Patrick Davis

Casey Andrews

41Bird of Paradise

Beautiful plantIndigenous to South AfricaRadiant, bright colorsDelicate flower petals

Outrageously ornamentalFascinating flowers bud their stems

Pretty perfect petalsAlluring any onlookers to admire its maturing flowersRefined over hundreds of yearsAppealing to anyoneDivineIgneous designStunning architectureExquisite

by Casey Andrews

Kendall Cairoli

42

Humanity No More

The night has passedIn this volatile situation, who knows if we will last.

The morning star is shining brightProviding us with a myriad of light.

My original self, engrossed in flamesWe no longer have our own names.

My soul has been burned in a flame that is blackOur entire humanity is under attack.

Stripped from our identitiesNow we are nonentities.

Becoming free from this mess is my only wishLiving like this causes me much anguish.

Hitler is evil, Jews are his scapegoatsAll of the Jews want to bludgeon his throat.The holocaust is deplorable, one can’t deny,

Obey Hitler’s commands, or else you will die.

by William Segal

Too Young

Sixteen years old,Cramped in a cattle carThe smell of death surrounds meIt is way too much for me to seeGrown men jostling each other for a crumb of breadWaiting for something to be saidWanton people, having nothing leftFighting for scraps of foodEverybody looking haggard and gaunt,Like hundreds of homeless menNot knowing where we are going to end upI am in anguish, screaming inside, but yet so tired and wornShould I just die, or stay alive. Oh I am so tornI watched the little boy attack his father, just after he had fallenJust so hungry, so much trepidationAlmost all of my faith is goneCongested, I sitWondering what is going to happenIf these men will ever stop wranglingSomebody help meI am sixteen years old

by Meg Damstrom

Madeline Carroll

43

Jackson Robillard

Silence of Sound

In the dark of night,In the silence of sound, My thoughts speak the loudest.They scream in my ears,Pound in my brain,And rattle my head.Everything in life becomes a question, Everything becomes impossible.Longevity and purpose, Of our dimly lit life,Quickly slip away,And loses the drive to fight.The light fades,The opening disappears,And my faith weakens like a wilting flower.My love for Him plummets,Down a deep, dark well,Never to return,For He dug this well, A previous vigil,To watch us at night, Has vanished from His citadel,

And abandoned the fight.He becomes impossible,He becomes unimaginable,He begins to feel like a figment of my imagi-nation.He becomes unreliable,He becomes untrustworthy,He begins to cease to exist.He left us alone,In the dark of night,To hear the silence of sound.Alone. Our impending fate,Has taken its toll,All hope has gone,Vanished from my soul.Our new world is scary,Murky and oblique,Devoid of strong faith,In a mountain of rubble.Abandoned and discardedUnimportant and disregarded,He has left us alone.

by Alissa Masini

44

Out Of Tears

My mind went blank,It was like my heart was being ripped out of my chest.A grapple pulling me to the floor,Laughing in my face.All the detriment that I was feeling went away,And I was left with nothing.Everything had veered,No longer thinking about where I was or what I was doing.I was aghast, and yet still filled with distain Not at him, yet myself. I had venerated him so much,Without it being shownBut now he was gone.And there was nothing left I could do. Everything felt frivolous to me now,As if nothing even mattered,Not a care in the world.The residue of him in my memory,All that was left of him was that.The thought of him calling out my name,And me leaving it there, ignoring him.Barely living,Just existing.

by Alexie Snook

Mikaeel Jan

45Condemned To Death

Belittled to nothing Caged like wild animalsTied up with no where to goLooking Death right in the eyeAbashed in front of their fellow prisoners Waiting to be lynchedThe time creeping slowly up on themTo be minimized and maimedAbout to be ostracized from the Human race because of Judaism

Praying to God for one last chance To the Germans, these men were nonentities All of the prisoners watching aghastWishing they could help these condemned men revert and head backThose wishes will not come trueThe camp deathly quiet

Walking up the stepsNooses placed around their necksSweat dripping down their foreheads Scared and not knowing what to doLosing all faithLynched for doing nothing wrong Hovering over the ground like rag dollsPulse stopping and eyes shuttingDying in the clutches of Buna.

by Colin Patterson

Ian Schramm

46

Black World

The idea of a peaceful world was impossible.It was almost like the world was black andDeath would be a better word.I cowered at the word “death”;Sleeping meant death!I was solicitous that I would die in my sleep;Death was not a word or idea for me.Even for how close I was to death,Sleeping would steal my body.My soul would be sold to the Angel of Death;The world was dark to me,I was on a battlefield,Fighting for my own soul-Fighting for my own survival -I was a ghost, an apparition;I was aghast by their terrorism.They pulverized my soul,Crushing it like it was nothing these myriad times.How can half of the world be turncoatsAnd turn their backs on people like me?

by Lauren Conway

Casey Andrews

47In The Blink of an Eye

Boom! In the blink of an eye my car is engulfed in the murky waterI flail my arms wildly in an attempt to escape the water pushing me downHeeelllp me! I gurgle under the water that is slowly filling the vanI am freezing, the frigid water pierces my skin like needlesWith all the strength I have left in my weak body I give my seatbelt a hardy tugMy head falls back against the seat with a loud thud!I am surely going to die, it is only a matter of time before I pass outAs I open my mouth in an attempt to let out a blood curdling screamThe water cascades down my throat, gushing down my windpipeI know not to panic but it is hard not to as I am drowningI attempt to relieve my lungs of this suffocating fluidBut I am only met with an unpleasant salty mouthful of waterIn one last attempt to escape this watery graveI attempt to break the passenger window and escapeBoom! My fist collides with the solid glass ricochetingSending searing pain through my armI fall back against the seat and I know it is only a matter of minutesHypothermia is setting in, resulting in swift chills fiercely trickling down my spineMy lungs are filled with murky water; I know this is the endI slowly close my eyes and wait to be taken away to an empty world of bliss “Clear!” yells the doctor as a thousand volts of electricity rack my lifeless body Charging! Clear! Ten thousand volts of electricity are transported through my bodyBeep, beep, beep, good job guys she is backGive her fifteen grams of morphine for the painI take my first breath of fresh air; I am confusedI should be dead; I died in the accidentBut strangely enough I feel the blood circulating through my body andThe steady rise and fall of my chestCould I be alive? Was I saved? Or am I stuck in a place just out of reach of heaven?As my eyes flicker open and I see a blurry figureWhere am I? Am I alive?As my blurry vision clears, a petite doctor comes into my view,Plastered on her face is a warm, welcoming smileI look to the left and see tear-stricken faces of my loved onesHolding my hands and shedding tears of joyI am in awe!I miraculously survived the accident.

by Hannah Benton

Matthew Enman

48

El Autobús

El autobús trae los estudiantes a DC y a New Jersey de regreso. El autobús es apestoso y grande.

Los estudiantes ven las películas en el autobús. Los estudiantes escuchan música en el autobús.

El autobús es blanco, azul, y verde en el exterior. El autobús es y gris y negro en el interior.

Los estudiantes hablan con sus amigos en el autobús. Los estudiantes duermen en el autobús.

Los profesores hablan y duermen.NO ME GUSTAN LOS AUTOBUSES!!

Translation:

The Bus

The bus brings the students to DC and back to New Jersey.The bus is stinky and big.

The students watch movies on the bus.The students listen to music on the bus.

The bus is white, blue and green on the exterior.The bus is grey and black on the interior.

The students talk with their friends on the bus.The students sleep on the bus.

The teachers talk and sleep.I DON’T LIKE BUSES!

by Isabelle Fagan

Jake Kurz

49

Zoologico en mi Casa

Yo tengo cinco perrosSus nombres son Coconut, Teddy, Bella, Piere, y CosetteYo tengo dos gatosSus nombres son Cappucino y CinnamonYo tengo dos ranasNo tienen nombresYo tengo un conejoSu nombre es TrixieYo tengo un zoologico en mi casa

Translation:A Zoo in my House

I have five dogsTheir names are Coconut, Teddy, Bella Pierre and Co-setteI have two catsTheir names are Cappucino and CinnamonI have two frogsThey don’t have namesI have a rabbitHer name is TrixieI have a zoo at my house

by Arielle Moss

Jadyn Lawrence

50

Calvin Wetmore

Darkness

Pitch blackLost in shadowsDraining people’s livesThe blinding night crowIn shadows

by Jack Collins

Night

Wind blowing harderShivering cold is reachingRepelled by the fire

by Jack Collins

The Moon

The shining bright moon,Glowing white,In the black of night

by Zain Asif

51

Silver Birch

There is this tree That I pass it everyday It enchants me, makes me stop and stare It looks whimsical in the December air,Glowing, shining without even a light to ignite Its beautiful branches are tall, reaching high for the gleaming sky Its roots are embedded into the snow-kissed field, holding on tightly It is perfectly shaped as if it were placed there by heavenGlimmering proudly as it lonely sits in the empty field The bright burning sun nor the beautiful painted sky could never compare Its sparkling branches curve so delicately, they look like pure glass Its silhouette in the foggy distance is like a breathtaking portraitThis tree is imprinted into the scene like it is in my mind,Its radiance will last forever.How badly I’d like to run and touch it Feeling the beauty between my hands.

by Kendall Cairoli

Vincina Bivona

52

Creature

The creature of the night stays away,Silently creeping, watching its prey.It hides in shadows, under deep sewer bars,Using mind control to kill czars. He then *swoops*s up out of the dark,Returning to his rightful place as Stormegedden the Lark.He rules until his time cannot hold the world,His disaster struck the world all crumpled and curled.Only then will he leave without taking a thing,Moving on to the next world, to live like a king.

by Jack Collins

Daniel Lombardi

53

Madeline Carroll

Dropped News

There was a guy called PopsAnd he loved to eat gum dropsIt was all okay until that horrible dayWhen the gumdrops got up and walked away

by Zaire Alston

My Sweet Love

It is not you; it is meMy parents don’t approveIf only they wouldIt’s a forbidden loveSomething no one understands But you are just so sweetI can’t live without youIf only I couldWe can secretly be togetherAll alone in my roomIf only I wereAble to have youMy forbidden cookie

by Zaire Alston

54Ode To Broken Bones

In the past I have cracked my bonesWrists ankles elbows and toes

They swell up and turn black and blueDid I mention they hurt?

Well, they doA lot

People may think That broken bones means you are weak

But that is a lieThey make you tougher, stronger, and braver

Just because you fall down a lot Doesn’t mean you are weak

Or clumsyOr fragile

Or breakableIt means you are tough

People may be upset about breaking bonesBut they shouldn’t be, They should be proud

They were strong enoughTo take a risk

And fall.

by Emily Hromin

Zaire Alston

Controversy Speaks

I end relationshipsI hurt countriesI destroy religionsI even end lives

But when I ariseAnd rear my ugly headThere is progress madeTo end my reign of terrorAnd when I am finally gone

Peace will be done.

By Ryan Fisher

55

Last Chance

Have you ever felt lonelyLike you weren’t importantLike you blew your last chanceAnd they’ll never forgive youEverybody gets there, you’reNot lonely, everyone feels it,Just inside. It tearsLives apart. Tears the Soul to its final destruction.Burning lives, killing whatMeans the most and justRipping everyone to shredsDon’t let it get to your mind,Don’t let it destroy you, becauseIt will destroy you, it alwaysDoes. I survived, but I know itWon’t stop until it succeeds.Just remember thatYou can do anything.The people who love youWill stay, and your hatersWill go. And walk with yourHead held high

by Lauren Conway

The Artist

ArtistShe sketches and sculptsPaints pictures of people Creates colorful components Of life

by Emily Hromin

Kendall Cairoli

Alone

When I am alone I feel lost Without a way

by Thomas Pickthall-Healey

56

One Blue Door

It was February, and five children, all of whom were more or less healthy, were sitting on the ground in a lazy circle. It was quite dark, and the children had to squint to see one another’s frowning faces.“I wish we were ice skating,” said Robin.“I wish we were eating Mexican food,” said Apu.“I wish we were wearing boots,” said Alastair.“I wish we were playing percussion instruments,” said Lillian. Miranda sighed. She was the youngest of the five children, but nevertheless she was often the leader of the group. She tried not to be bossy about it, but it is difficult not to be bossy from time to time. “We can’t do any of those things,” she said. “We’re not at a skating rink, and we don’t have any skates. We’re not in Mexico, and there’s not an enchilada in sight. We’re not wearing boots, and there’s not a department store for miles around. And we’re not playing percussion instruments, because it wouldn’t be wise to make so much noise. After all, we’re in a puzzling and possibly dangerous situation. I know it’s difficult to believe, but we may have to face the fact that we’re on our own.”“But how can that be?” Robin asked. “Just a few hours ago we were on a picnic with Madame Blatavsky, when all of a sudden a glowing blue door appeared and Madame Blatavsky walked right through the door.”“But she said she would be right back,” complained Apu, “and we haven’t seen her in hours.”“I think we should leave,” suggested Alastair, “Madame Blatavsky might not be coming back.”All of the children were becoming frustrated after a constant vigil for the past few hours. But after those few hours it was getting dark and cold, and the children began wrangling over what to do. Suppose Madame Bla-tavsky was never coming back! Then, just as suddenly as it had happened before, the glowing door appeared. This time it was hovering just a few inches off the frozen ground in front of the five children. Immediately, Lillian said, “I think we should go in after Madame Blatavksy.” “No!” yelled Alastair, “Madame Blatavksy decreed that we stay here until she comes back.”But the enterprising Miranda would have no part in this, “Don’t you remember the old adage? Nothing ven-tured, nothing gained.” Now Miranda gingerly approached the doorway and reached through, groping blindly in the unseen space beyond. The children jostled in the narrow doorway. Nobody wanted to be the laggard who was left behind. “What is this place?” asked Robin when they were on the other side. A tray of boots sat just beyond the doorway, next to a table piled with drums and cymbals. The smell of enchiladas filled the air and a gleam-ing frozen pond was just in front of them. “What a bonanza!” yelled Apu, “How is this possible?”“Can’t you tell yet?” said Miranda, “This is everything we wanted!”But before the children could explore any further they heard a discordant noise, like a falling pot.“That’s Madame Blatavsky!” All the children yelled at once.They ran in the direction of the sound. There, behind a big tree, was Madame Blatavsky. Stirring a big kettle with one hand while she searched through a large bag with the other. “Children!” she exclaimed. “You are just in time, I can’t find the chili peppers anywhere. Can one of you reach in the bag and help me?”“I see one right next to the skates,” said Miranda. And she ran back to get it.Madame Blatavsky smiled broadly. “This place has everything we wanted.”“We see what we wanted,” said Miranda, “but what did you want?”“Don’t you know?” Said Madame Blatavsky. “I just wanted some company, and now you are here. It’s true, miracles happen every day.” by Peter Smith

57

Jaime Sheppard

Julia Papas

58

The Game

The sound of cheers Echo through my earsAs I line up the shot.SwishThe crowd cheersAs loud as a lion’s roarI run down the court,Ready to defend.Nervousness rushes through My bodyI can hear my heart thumpBumpBumpA ball comes my wayMy hand’s a magnet Ready to be attached to the ballThe sound of skin Smashing the basketballsounds niceAs the crowd laughs like hyenas At the boy who gets blocked.Ha ha haI say, “Nice job!” to the boyHe looks at me as if he were a manThat just got marriedI got in my positionThe ball dribbled hard and fastAs I get ready to receive the pass I get determinedPhoomThe pass goes soaring Through the air,As if it were a speeding falconI catchPut up a shot And before you know….We are winning.

by Liam Garland

Life As A Goalie

I like playing goalie, but it hurtsGetting hit with shots in the face doesn’t tickleSometimes getting lucky by the post blocking a shotIt’s entertaining watching the faces of the other players as you deny them a goal I grin because of an amazing save,I groan at could have been the game-winnerOr a blank look because they can’t believe what just happened.Getting blamed for a loss and praised for a win Goals hurt, but I am healed by winsAnd losses hurt, but I’m healed by championships.

by Danny Porth

James Duffy

59

Want

Mom?Yes!Can I have a dollar?Will you respect it?Stop asking me stupid questions. But will you?N-n-n-no!Then you can’t! I respect your decision. Then you may have it.

Victory!

by Thomas Pickthall-Healey

First Day

First day of school is a raceYou have butterflies in your stomach.No idea who your opponents or allies might be.Sometimes it’s an uphill battle,Sometimes it’s a piece of apple pie.They say to focus on yourself,But it’s very distracting and overwhelming.Faces are a blur.But at the finish line it’s all worth it.Everyone is motivated;Everyone is racing.

by Natalie Pruitt

An Open Book

Life is a bookWhen you open the first page, it feels like someone was just born.As you continue, sometimes it is good and sometimes it is bad.There are interesting parts and some very boring parts.In the middle, things seem not-so-easy.At the end, things start to slow down, and you take it much more seriously.When you are in the final chapters, you look back and recall how great things were.

by Allie Esposito

Grace Kellogg

60

John CrispoScience ClassWhat is History?

Lots of dead presidentsTons of current eventsTreaties signed and brokenWars are usually badPeople in povertyNever invade Russia during the winter,Having to beat everyone in a race must we?From space to bombs,Makes no difference to me,For I have no interest in such nonsense.

by Dylan Henry

Walking the Dog

Sorry, Mom, I can’t walk the dogMy throat’s dry; I sound like a frog.My legs are broken; I can’t moveMy foot’s turning into a hoove.There is construction on our roadAnd I’ve got frostbite on my toes.It’s cold outside; I’ll catch a chill,“I’ll walk the dog,” said my Uncle Bill.“Oh, really? I’m going out to play.”“Sorry,” said Bill. “It’s a school day.”

by Maeve Logan

61Opera

It is longAnd dryIt seems to only get longerIt is loud and hard to understandI am the only person not captivated by thisThe rest of the audience is like an emergency room, completely silentTheir eyes light up as the notes hit their earsThe man next to me is weepingIt is hard for me to keep from sleepingI will never let my parents drag me to the opera again

by Connor Murray

Fashionista

Follows trends as if they’re in the BibleAdopts the latest stylesSearches for the latest sales like a scavenger Searches for foodHas every Premier Card possibleItems are worn like replays on televisionOutfits are picked like topping on an ice cream coneNeatly organized closetInternet shopping is a blessingStudies the mall map like a history textbookTakes every trip to the mall very seriously Always the best dressed

by Jenna Dertouzos

Personalities of Food

Food you have multiple personalitiesOne is sweet, soft and comforting The other salty, sweet, bitter, just the worstBut when we make the perfect combination, Food you are so, so good

by Peter Smith

Multiple Actions

Oh thank you, Mr. Post.You just saved the game.The puck beat me but was denied by you.Not only saving me the trouble, But helping goalies everywhere Everyone loves it when you shout Sounds like DING, like a bell ringing But then you have a dark side,Of tipping a wide shot in You just ruined the game.

by Danny Porth

Ready Yet?

Passport, checkPlane ticket, checkSuitcase, checkPhone, checkiPod, checkReady?We’re missing something?What?Oh yeah, hey Dad!Let’s go!

by Tatiana James

62

Your Ears to My Music

Music to your earsExhilarating for meRelaxing for you

by Sam Nickson

Colors

Black, GreyRed blood fills themThe sands, skies, and seasWho is responsible for this?Colors.

by Alexander Ives

The Revelation

Nobody is aware of just how crazy we humans as a species areWe fight for land and we fight for “peace”If that makes any senseBut we continueEven though ethical and morally right decisions are ne-glectedWe still fight because it is in our natureTo be the better when we are all the sameJohn suffers because he knows this and it gnaws at himIt bites away every part of his brain and implants itselfAnd though it is eventually forgottenThe thought is still there.Like a tapewormIt goes in, and stays thereIt causes painAnd even when it isOut of your physical bodyThe eggs remainThey are looming in your brainWaiting to grow into a biggerParasite

by Steven Karbachinskiy

Oak Tree

Under the oak treeThere with you in the darknessOur warming embrace

by Calvin Wetmore

Delicate Love

Sweeter than nectar,More beautiful than a mum,My love, you’re a rose.

by Annabel Pruitt

My Heart

Brighter than the sun,My heart skips a beat and growsBigger than the world

by Lauren Conway

Arabella Berman

Eyes

Crystal eyes pierce me,Deep blue like ocean water,Pull me down under by Alissa Masini

63

William Stitt

William Mallen

64

Jaime Sheppard

65

Best Friends

Beautiful inside and outEager about everything that comes their waySupporters of my dreamsTexting, talking, teachingFirst to be told about my dayRunning to the movies and the mallIndescribable memoriesEntertain me when I am boredNag me every time I am wrongDancing, singing, running, jumpingSignal my phone to sing at the end of everyday.

by Jessica Babb

Love is a Mountain Not a River

Some say love is a riverBut I say love is a mountainIt doesn’t flow effortlesslyYou have to climb and set a courseBe prepared and readyThere is workBut once at the top, it’s worth it

by Sam Nickson

Friend or Not?

Are you my friend, or are you not? Our friendship was as solid as a rockWe’ve been through a lotBut now it feels like someone else has my spot

I helped you, and you helped meThat’s why this is getting hard to seeI don’t want to loose you as my best friend,I wouldn’t want to loose you in the end

You are my best friend;You’ve gotten me through a lotNow we hardly even speakAnd it’s making us weak

Let’s fix this friendship once and for allYou are my best friendI can’t watch this fall

by Vincina Bivona

Olivia LandFeral Cat-Science Class

Lucas FaganMile-a-Minute weed-Science class

66

Fearless

To me, fearless is not having NO fears.Fearless is being afraid and showing it.Being fearless doesn’t mean that you are the bravest one,Fearless is making a mistake, and being proud of it.Fearless is doing what you love, even if you are not good at it.When you are fearless, you’ll love something with all your heart, even if you know you will lose it.Fearless is being able to tell someone you are not sorry and walk away.Being fearless is dancing in the rain with your best friend and having the time of your life.I think lots of people believe that they are fearless, but truly, they are the average person trying to fit in.

by Hannah Fuller

Our Crowning Hour

I see the loyalty of those aroundI see the enemy closing inI see trustI see fearI see faces readyReady for our final hourI see fightingI see bloodI see everyone fallingFalling... Down goes anotherI see nothingDeath has come for meAnd I see HimBut I knowThisWas our crowning hour

by Alexander Ives

Gus Capatides

67

The Eagle

The eagle is like a soldierScouring the land for a foeStriking ferocityA look in his eyeBrighter than a forest fireColder than a blizzardDoing all he can for the things that really matterDoing what’s right for his family

by Blake Kernen

Justin ConnellThe Hawk

I sit down on the rocky sidewalkWatching the giant hawkThe hawk is like a magical paintingOther birds are chirping Chirp, chirpCar fumes are poisonI can feel grassGrabbing my fingersThe wind is noisy like thunderWhoosh, whooshBike riders are cometsThe snow is retreating, so all I seeIs puddles.

by Trevor Clemson

68Mockingbird

Last night, I had a dream,That all of us were birds,There were all different breedsThat I cannot say through words.

The eagles roamed the hallways, Big and tall and lean.Ruling the roost, and getting the chicksBy acting handsome and mean.

The proud and primping peacocks,Squawked at one another,About the latest gossip,But no one really bothered.

The one single blue jayStaked out his next victimOf his sorry plot, he crowed,“They never know what hits them!”

The flock of gangly geeseFlew to and fro,Between maturity and childhood,They never seemed to know.

The pretty little swallowsChirped and laughed and sungWith joy and livelinessBut their tiny heads were hung.

Then there were the finches,Golden as the sun.I tried to follow them,But their trust wasn’t won.

For I was a mockingbird,Different, yet not unique.No one wanted to have meAs a friend to love and keep.

I chirped like a swallow, Squawked like a peacock,But no one ever listened. So, for my sorry fate,A loner I was christened.

As I endured my loneliness,Through silence, so no one knew,Out of the dark gray sky,There was a friendly coo.

A small pigeon flew down,But no one noticed him.He landed right beside me.Happy to the brim.

He became my best friend,And him I grew to love.For, I knew inside of that little pigeon,There was a pure and honest dove.

When I woke up from that dream,I knew, and was for certain,Who that little pigeon was.And no one was to hurt him.

So, if you are feeling down,And have on one to trust or love,Just know that for a fact,Somewhere, there is a dove.

by Annabel Pruitt

Lauren Conway