2016 2017 Yearbook

The Greek mythological version regarding creation is a rather confusing tale. While
Mother Earth or Gaia was sleeping, she gave birth to Uranus. Uranus caused fertile water to
rain down on her. This caused Gaia to grow vegetation, beasts, and birds (Graves 31). Later on,
Uranus’s son, Cronos, had two children. Both times his wife, Rhea gave birth, he would devour
the child. Outraged, Rhea hid the third child, Zeus, she gave birth to and he grew up without
Croonos’s knowledge (Graves 39). Once old enough, Zeus became Cronos’s cupbearer and
tricked him into drinking mustard and salt in his drink. This caused Cronos to throw-up Zeus’s
siblings, who strangely stayed alive even in Cronos’s stomach because of their immortality.
Feeling grateful, Zeus’s siblings, the gods, agreed to follow him into battle (Graves 40). This is
the confusing creation of the world and the gods according to the mythology of Greece.

The mythological world of the Greeks was full of tales of heroes who defeated
monsters. One of the most famous, aside from Hercules, was a demigod by the name of
Perseus. He was Zeus’s son and slayed Medusa. Another popular demigod was Bellerophon,
son of Poseidon. He tamed the magnificent, pulchritudinous, and wild Pegasus and defeated
Chimaera. These heroes of Greece slayed monsters and completed seemingly impossible tasks.

Greek mythology, from creation to heroes, is dominated by the confusing tales of gods
and goddesses. Stories like that of Perseus and Bellerophon are packed with references to gods
and visits from gods. Even in the Greek’s creation stories, there is acknowledgement of Uranus
being the gods’ grandfather. Confusing its readers, these tales of creation, gods, and heroes
encompass the Greek’s mythology.

Originated in Germany, England, and Arabia, many folktales were written that are still
popular today. Consequently, many of the classic stories have been made into various movies,
some even by one of the most popular movie industries in the world, Walt Disney. In some
Disney movies, such as the retellings of the German Brothers Grimm’s stories, the film stays
mostly true to the original tale. While others, such as Aladdin differ greatly from the initial
story from Arabian Nights. These and other original tales show the value of the culture in
which the stories were written. Showing that the English at that particular time highly valued
cunningness, the majority of English stories contain a clever person or animal who wins.
Perhaps, the reason why German, English, and Arabian folktales are still popular is because
today, we still hold the same values.

Many famous stories originate from Germany. Both “Snow White,” “The Frog Prince,”
and “Little Red Riding Hood” are from Germany (Cole x and xi). Also, two of the most influential
writers of all times, the Brothers Grimm, were from Germany. Throughout their lives, they







Rachel M.

The Struggle of Survival

Imagine you are running with wolves, feeling the wind in your fur as you race along,
tracking a herd of frightened elk. It would feel incredible working together with so many other
skilled wolves in the rush of a hunt. Wolves have populated the world from the beginning of
creation, packs of completely different breeds located all around the globe. Although there are
multiple different types of wolf. No matter what breed, they are always skilled hunters which
use teamwork in almost everything they do because it keeps them alive and thriving. As
incredible animals, wolves possess great skill and stamina.

Wolves are incredible creatures who come in many different behaviors, shapes and
sizes. They all survive in different habitats scattered around the world. They also endure
drastically different climates, and each breed is equipped with the different tools they need to
carry on in their location. Wolves have many different breeds, places to live, and colors, but
they are all similar in some big ways. Wolves are all very protective of their pups, because
young pups are practically defenseless. While pups are young the pack takes care of them and
teaches them all they need to know to survive themselves.

Wolves live in many drastically different habitats scattered around the world, depending
on their breed. While wolves abide in the Himalayas, Africa, and India, they also live in many
other places around the world. The rarest wolf, the Indian wolf, only holds numbers of around
3000. Therefore, extinction threatens their breed (Wolf Facts). The Grey wolf which is the
largest wolf of all the breeds and it is also the most well known. The incredible Arabian wolf is
the smallest of them all. Females, when full grown, only weigh about 22 pounds (“Wolf-Facts”).
Wolves can live until they are 13-18 depending on the breed, but normally they do not live that
long in the wild (“Wolf Country”). The many different breeds all have something unique about
them.

Wolves live in dens. Because there are numerous different kinds of wolves, there are
also many different types of dens, including dens in the ground, in a cleft of rock, and many
other types (“Wolf Country”). Since wolves, who can survive in the most inhospitable climates,
can adapt to their surrounding quite quickly, they can survive in temperatures -40 degrees
Celsius with bitter winds. They howl to declare their territory to other packs. They need to live
near a steady food and water supply and are forced to move if that is not available where they
are (“Wolf-Facts”). The many different types of dens are different in different parts of the
world.

Young wolves, which are called pups, are born blind and deaf but have an incredibly
strong sense of smell. Within 7-8 months from birth they begin hunting with their pack. Pups
survive 30-60% of the time. If a pup does die, the pack normally buries it (“Wolf Country”).

When pups are 4 weeks old, they begin to wean off their mother’s milk and start to eat
regurgitated food. Because while the pack is out hunting it is unsafe for the pups to be left
alone, one to two adult wolves will stay to protect them (“Wolf-Facts”). When the pack is back
from its hunting trip, it will bring regurgitated food for the pups in order to keep them healthy
and growing. Pups grow out of their blindness and deafness fairly quickly; their sense of smell
normally stays the same.

Every breed of wolf is immensely special. They inhabit areas in normally large numbers
all around the world. They love their families and all the other members of their pack. Since
wolves are incredible creatures which come in a variety of different types, the most important
thing about them is that they have many different breeds that live all around the world because
people can enjoy them everywhere, and the wolves themselves are pretty safe from extinction
because of their large numbers.

Wolves are extremely smart hunters, which normally like to hunt at dawn to keep
cooler. They hunt around areas that large herds of animals commonly come to graze. Because
they eat mostly meat, they have to work really hard to be able to put food in their stomachs,
although hunting is extremely dangerous for them and they are sadly, very commonly injured.
They hunt very intelligently, and know how to pick the right time, place, and animal.

Viciously wolves devour food. Wolves love eating, their favorite kind of food is meat,
specifically large hoofed animals like elk, caribou, and deer, elk being the most popular
although they do enjoy other smaller animals like hares (Dutcher). Wolves are at the top of the
food chain. If they have enough meat, they can sometimes devour around twenty pounds of
food in one feeding. Because wolves are an animal which does not want to waste time, not
even to chew, wolves normally swallow their food whole after they rip it off the animal. Wolves
don’t waste food and always eat the whole animal (“Wolf-Facts”). Being able to eat until they
fill their belly with meat is always an extreme pleasure for any wolf.

Impressively, wolves are incredible hunters which know how to target the old, weaker
animals in any pack of animals. They have powerful, interlocking jaws that help them keep their
bite on a struggling animal (“Wolf Facts”). Wolves know how to stay upwind and out of sight of
their prey when needed. When the opportunity arises to strike at their carefully selected
animal, wolves normally seize the nose or rump of the animal while trying to stay clear of
dangerous hooves (“Wolf County”). Because wolves have incredible stamina, they can chase a
herd of animals over many miles of land. They also use weather conditions to their advantage.
Like in the snow, wolves can run on snow without breaking through it, unlike large animals,
which have struggles running in snow, making them increasingly slower and easier to catch
(Dutcher). Being able to target the weak and old really helps wolves be able to take down much
larger animals then themselves.

Obviously, being at the top of the food chain does not prevent wolves from having to
suffer from injuries, sickness, and death which keeps some wolf breeds endangered. Wolves

mainly get sick from bugs like parasites, fleas, and ticks, just like their prey, although injuries are
extremely common while hunting. Wolves are often injured or killed on hunting trips when they
get kicked or trampled, by their larger-hoofed prey (“Wolf Country”). Wolves have to be
extremely alert to be able to come out of a hunting trip uninjured, and with food (“Wolf Facts”).
Large horned animals are some of the most dangerous, because they try to protect themselves
with their horns by trying to impale them, killing the wolf (“Wolf-Facts”). Wolves have to stay
super alert all the time to prevent from being uninjured and not dead.

Evidently wolves eat meat. It nourishes them. In order to be able to eat, they have to
hunt. In order to have a successful hunt, they have to be smart and work together so they can
prevent being injured. Wolves working together to hunt down an animal twice their size in
incredibly possible if they work together. If they didn’t work together, wolves would probably
go extinct from starvation because without teamwork wolves would have no food. The wolves
which have the amount of skill and teamwork they use to hunt their meaty animal is incredible.

Since wolves, which live peacefully together, stay in healthy and thriving
packs, they work together to help each other because they know without each other, they
probably wouldn’t survive as well. If wolves don’t work together to protect each other and their
territory, they would probably be an extinct animal. Wolves know how to be territorial when
needed; they all have different ranks which do different jobs. They also have enemies they
need to work together to defend against. A peaceful pack will always thrive more than a
fighting one.

To keep their territory protected, wolves will howl a warning to other wolves in attempt
to keep others off their land (“Wolf-Facts”). They are very territorial animals, although they
don’t really fight with other wolves unless they are fighting over their precious food. In every
wolf pack there is a “core” in the territory, a place normally in the middle of their land where
the dens are (“Wolf Country”). Wolves have to worry about people on their land as well as
other predators because wolves sometimes kill farmers’ livestock, and some people, who do
not know a lot about them, think wolves are bad. Wolves and people have a ongoing conflict
(“Wolf-Facts”). Wolves protect their territory to keep their pack and family safe and also to
keep their good hunting grounds.

Alpha is the highest ranking member of a wolf pack. Alphas are not technically leaders in
the way that humans are because they are less bossy and controlling, but they do have more
social freedom then any of the other wolves (“Wolf Country”). When alphas mate the female
becomes beta female. Higher ranks of wolves can change easily due to the death of the alpha
or something similar, but changes do not occur often, although the lower ranks can change
quite easily and often (“Wolf Facts”). Other ranks of wolves such as betas and omegas are also
part of the pack. Betas which are second in command, next to the alpha, normally raise the

pups. Omegas are the lowest ranking member of the pack ( Wolf Facts). Although wolves are
“ranked” they all have special jobs specifically designed for them just like people.

Even though wolves have predators, they have to keep an eye out for their enemies
which do not usually want to attack an entire pack of wolves and rarely attack them. If a wolf is
alone, he is very vulnerable to hunting predators because he cannot fight off a larger animal by
himself successfully. Young wolves are the most vulnerable to predators due to their
unpreparedness (“Wolf Facts). Wolves work together when attacked by enemies, helping each
other drive the enemy away. Wolves’ most dangerous enemies are coyotes, bears, and foxes
(“Wolf Country”). Wolves are enemies with other wolf packs, but they do not fight often (“Wolf
–Facts). Not keeping an eye out for enemies around them can have some serious
consequences.

During a fight wolves are obviously smart when it comes to protecting their land. They
work together to fight off predators a lone wolf couldn’t fight alone. Wolves, which all do
different jobs, all are important to the survival of the pack. Without all members the pack doing
their job, the pack would probably struggle because without each other they
cannot protect themselves and each other well. The fact that all wolves need each other no
matter how low they are in the rankings is incredible since they all need each other to survive in
their dangerous surroundings. They have incredible teamwork. Obviously working together
keeps them alive. That’s why there are few one wolves.

All wolves posses the amazing skill and stamina needed to survive their hostile
surroundings. They do not struggle when having to run miles at a time nor do they lack
teamwork. Wolves live globally. Different breeds live in different countries that best suit their
body types and unique skills. While wolves are all unique, they are all smart hunters, territorial
and always working together. Every pack has different rankings, each rank has their certain job
because every job is important. It is also extremely impotent that wolves work together in
everything. If wolves did not work together, they would struggle to survive and possibly go
extinct.

Bibliography

Datcher, Jim, Jamie Datcher. "How Wolves Hunt." Living with Wolves, CEnterlyne Publishing,
www, livingwithwolves.org.

"Types of Wolves." Elegant Themes/ Wordpress Publishing, wolfworlds.com.
“The Wolf Pack.” wolfcountry.net.
“Wolves.” Animal Corner, 2005, animalcorner.co.uk.

Sarah M.

Unforgettable Christmas Memory

Star died on the same day as our Christmas banquet at our church, which was being
held in the evening. She died at the incredible age of 29, on December 13th, 2014 at 3:17 in the
afternoon. She was in our 3 sided, run-in horse barn when she died. Star's death was painfully
heart-breaking, because it was so sudden. Burying her was hard, since horses do not measure
the typical size. I am so thankful to have been a part of Star's life.

I was at Serena's house when mom call and told me that my beautiful, little, Star was
dying. I came home immediately to find Star laying on the ground breathing hard. Star's bay
coat was muddy and the white star on her forehead was brown. The vet arrived suggested we
put Star peacefully to sleep, because she broke her leg. That evening was the Christmas
banquet at our church. Star died of a dreadful fall in the mud, which stimulated a stroke.

We located a place to bury Star, which was under a little tree. Our neighbors, the Nolts,
drove over to dig an enormous hole, because we did not have the equipment to dig such a huge
hole. They brought her from the barn and carefully placed her in the hole. Dad put his coat over
Star's head before they covered her up. I found a sizeable rock, near the burial site, that looked
like a horse’s head and stood it up on Star's grave under the little tree.

Star's life was an enormous journey of love, friendship, and fun. I proudly learned how
to ride a horse on Star's back. I'd have my friends over, and we would go, saddle her up, and sail
around the pasture. She was a sassy, little horse, who loved to be the star of the show, and she
liked to boss the other horses around. My favorite thing to do with her was to ride bare-back
and just simply enjoy her company. She loved to be brushed, when we were done riding. I loved
to canter around the pasture and spent time talking to her. Being a part of Star's life was like
living in a perfect dream, because it got better whenever I was with her.

That day when star died was one of the saddest days of my life, although people say,
"She was just a horse," she meant so much more to me. Digging the hole to bury Star was like
digging a brutally enormous hole in my heart, because she was like a best friend to me. Her life
before she died was overflowing with joy and happiness. The most important part is before Star
died. I learned how to ride, take care of a horse with her, and she boasted my confidence with
horses, which must have been rather trying for her.

David N.

My name is David N. I am 13 and in 8th grade. My favorite foods are tacos, burritos,
pizza, cheeseburgers, hot dogs and tootsie rolls. My favorite sports teams are the New York
Giants, Philadelphia Phillies, Philadelphia 76er’s, and the Philadelphia Flyers. I enjoy playing
every sport, but my favorites are basketball and football. I play for a real basketball team called
the Rock Solid Lions. I also like video games. If I would have to choose my favorite writing
assignment this year, it would probably be “The Three Billy Goats Gruff.”

Goats and Trolls

Wonderfully this is an amazing Norwegian folk tale titled “The Three Billy Goats Gruff”
written by J Moe and P.C Asbjornsen. Because this tale is short, it fits on one page. There is one
creative black and white picture as there should be on the top right corner. The picture
helpfully shows the goats, troll and the bridge, which helps the reader visualize the area.

Potentially the story begins on a windy spring day. One illustration skillfully helps the
reader visualize the hilly countryside with a stream flowing around rocks. The authors portray
the protagonist as three Billy goats. One is small, one is hefty, one is humongous which causes
him to have big horns. They are all hungry and want to gobble green grass until they get fat.
The authors also include an antagonist who is an ugly, mean troll. The troll has scary, huge eyes
and a long nose. He does not like anyone crossing over the bridge since he lives under it and
because he is greedy.

Obviously, the problem of this story is the goats cannot cross the red, wooden bridge. if
they try the old, stinky troll will threaten to eat them, because he is mean. Since the goats are
smart, they tell the troll to patiently wait for the bigger goat that is trotting up the hill. Saying
that, which shows they are smart, work out for them. The troll agrees to wait. The troll is
greedy so he wants more food.

Fearlessly the largest Billy goat who is crossing the bridge, bravely stomps all over the
troll. With his massive sharp horns, he tosses the troll into the stream. Because the troll is
scared, he never messes with them again. So, the goats go to the wide hillside and eat green
grass. Since They eat so much, they become fat. They are so chubby they can barely walk home.

Strangely readers might fear this tale. Because the troll is mean, people may dislike this
tale. When children are little, the troll could have scared them, which could cause them not to
like the tale. As the troll acts, violently it could scare children. It could fearfully scare other
children, although in the end the smart, brave goats win and the mean troll dies.

Rachel P.

As Narnia was slowly coming to life, Digory and Polly watched in amazement. So much
was happening. Digory noticed trees coming up from the ground, Polly realized a connection
song to what was happening. Not even a little bit of fear crossed Polly’s mind. She was overly
excited to see a whole new world appear right before her own eyes. Digory’s thoughts were
also excitement, but he glanced over his shoulder and saw a lion crawling nearer to him which
made his nerves jump into his throat.

Uncle Andrew’s reaction to the creation of Narnia was quite different then the
children’s of course. Uncle Andrew had nothing but fear rushing though his body. His teeth
were clashing and his knees were shaking constantly. He was afraid of everything going on
including the lion and the white witch. The lion got closer to Uncle Andrew which made him
dash off and fall face first to the ground. Uncle Andrew had no excitement for this change.

John T.

Hello! My name is John T. I am 14 years old, and my birthday is January 27. I live in
New York State in a little town. I am homeschooled by my mom. I have three brothers and
four sisters. I have friends in the USA, Australia, and Europe. My hobbies include Legos, playing
outside, building things, landscaping, hiking, biking, and swimming. With Legos, I make
buildings, tops, castles, and many other things. I love playing outside, especially going
swimming. I love fishing. Although I went several times, I never caught anything. I love mowing
lawns. I know how to play a little on the piano. I like reading some books. I also like archery
and hunting.

The Emperor’s New Clothes

The story takes place in a Medieval happy little city, and the protagonist is the silly
emperor who is selfish and greedy and loves new clothes. His goal is not towards God but to be
well dressed. Antagonists in the story are two swindlers who lie to steal all the emperor’s
money. The swindlers lie and tell the people that they can weave cloth that is invisible to
people who are unworthy and stupid.

There is a big problem because the emperor is not fit to rule. The weavers become
successful because of their lie. The greedy emperor asks the weavers to make him a new suit.
The weavers pretend they are real weavers and ask for tons fo money. The proud people do
not admit they see the cloth because they are so proud, and the emperor decides to wear this
unusual cloth in a parade in his honor.

When the parade starts at first all the people distinctly praise the clothes which are not
real. Then finally out of nowhere a child says there were not clothes. But he doesn’t know any
better, and he is not proud. Then finally all the people admit the truth too just like the child.
The emperor learns that he is too proud for his kingdom, and in the end he is brave enough to
finish the parade.

This story is entertaining because of being tricked and made a fool of. The story isn’t
suspenseful, and some people think it is boring. It isn’t modern. Some people are not familiar
with it, but the author decided the character well. It is funny because the swindlers pretend
they are real. The emperor learned not to be selfish and proud from the swindlers.

Maria T.

Hello there! My name is Maria T. I am 12 years old. I live in the state of New York.
There are eight children in my family including me. My dad, who is a hardworking and kind
man, who I admire, is a dentist. My mom, who I also admire, is a wonderful mom. She does
practically everything in our house. I also like my brothers and sisters who play with me often.
I also like to play games and sports such as kickball, tennis, kick the can, swimming, and a few
other games. I like to go to amusement parks and ride many things but, although I have
acrophobia, at an amusement park, I once took a ride on the “Salt and Pepper Shaker.” I like
dogs, and I have wanted one for a long time. I also like to write. My favorite story here is the
one about flamingoes, and I really enjoyed all of my classes on Intermediate 1.

Fantastic Flamingoes

Flamingoes are interesting and beautiful creatures. Flamingoes are elegant, interesting,
and wondrous creatures. Flamingoes have lovely long necks and fascinating webbed feet. They
are very large and colorful birds. Flamingoes also have flight feathers, which appear black in
flight. The flamingoes’ legs splendidly bend backwards. In flight they look like pink sticks. Their
wingspan in height equals 55 inches. Flamingoes are very beautiful and interesting birds.

Flamingoes exist in salty places. They eat fish which are usually unwelcome.
Flamingoes live in tropical and subtropical areas. They build mud nests, which look like
volcanos, that keep their eggs safe.

Flamingoes have many social habits. Flamingoes are most happy on ground. When a
flamingo stretches, its wings spread out beautifully. They also spread their wings to salute each
other or to stretch. When they dance they flap their wings. Flamingoes devour their food
together, fly together, and nest together. Flamingoes live in groups which are called colonies.
Flamingoes have a lot of social habits.

Lucia S.

Hello, there! My name is Lucia S. I am from Illinois, and I'm 11 years old. My favorite things
to do are dance, make crafts and bake, swim, play tennis, and film videos for my YouTube
channel. My dream places to visit are Italy, Los Angeles, and Bora Bora, but my favorite place to
visit is Mexico. I would love to visit all of them for the beauty, amenities, and most importantly
spending quality time with my family. My favorite foods are ice cream, sushi, pizza, and mac n
cheese. My favorite movie is “The Space Between Us,” which is a drama, love story, and
comedy all in one about astronauts. Thanks so much for reading my biography!

Chocoholic’s Guide to Chocolate

Chocolate is so popular in the United States and surprisingly in many other countries.
But what most people don’t comprehend is how chocolate is truly made. Did you know that
chocolate actually did not start off sweet and scrumptious. Chocolate can be eaten as a
delicious snack, or as a indulgent dessert. You can eat chocolate in many places, but make sure
you don’t eat it in the blazing sun, it could melt. You will be surprised not only to learn where
chocolate comes from but the chocolatiers who made chocolate that much better. The
popularity of chocolate has grown so much and I hope it continues to grow, so everyone in the
world may taste a sweet bite of chocolate.

It really is extraordinary what goes into making one chocolate bar. There is a lot of time,
effort, and hard work. Chocolate has actually been around for over three thousand five
hundred years. It was first started in Central and South America, but it has grown so big that
almost every country has it. Chocolate begins on a tree, is harvested, and then made into
chocolate. There is a lot of dedication that goes into making chocolate. Almost everybody has
tried chocolate, but very few people know how chocolate is really made.

Most people enjoy indulging in a amazing bar of chocolate, but what they don’t know is
how it came from the ground to their mouths. Chocolate first starts off as a seed, then is
planted and watered, until it wonderfully grows into a tropical tree. These majestic seeds, are
actually called cocoa beans. The beans first originated from the West coast of Africa. These
tropical beans/seeds can grow into gigantic twenty feet high trees. A cocoa pod can have
twenty to forty seeds in it. Not only that, this truly extraordinary tree can produce up to two
thousand pods a year. It is quite amazing to hear about process of where chocolate comes
from, don’t you think?

Now that we know how long the process takes just for chocolate to get started, let’s dig
a bit deeper and look into how the cocoa bean is harvested. The particular period for the trees
to produce pods and the pods to produce seeds, is actually in October to March. All the pods
are sliced down from the tree by hand. They carve them down using a sharp, towering pole.
You know the pods are ripe because you may rattle and shake them. After they know the pods
are ripe, the will sit out in the blazing sun to let the moisture out. The next time you eat a
chocolate bar, just think about the long process it takes just for a sweet bite.

Before indulging in delicious chocolate, be sure to thank the people who process it from
bean to bar. After letting these incredible pods absorb the scorching sun, they will clean them
with special equipment to make sure there are no detrimental nails or stones. After removing
these truly toxic impurities, they will crack the shells open and separate the cocoa nibs. If you
have never tried cocoa nibs, they are small, pebble shaped pieces of cocoa. Surprisingly they
actually taste like wine. After separating the nibs, they heat up the oven and roast the nibs.
After roasting the in the oven, they smash the nibs with a hydraulic press. After doing

numerous amounts of work to these nibs, It is time to make them into chocolate. First, they add
sugar, butter, milk, and other ingredients. Then they will make it into chocolate. This process is
called making the chocolate, and without this you would just have bitter old cocoa.

I really hope you enjoyed learning how you can turn bitter cocoa into sweet chocolate.
Cocoa starts on a tree, then is harvested, and then they finally turn the bitter old cocoa into a
sweet, creamy, rich chocolate. The most important part is the harvesting, because it is what
turns bitter cocoa into a delicious indulgence. It is very important to learn about this, so you
may thank the chocolatiers who made bitter cocoa into a great chocolate treat.

Today we will be talking about three of the most famous chocolatiers. There fame
started between the 1800’s and the 1900’s. These extraordinarily famous chocolatiers have
created in not only the USA, but also in Europe. That’s living the sweet life! First there was
Milton Hershey the inventor of the delicious milk chocolate. Then there was the Mar's family
creators of the truly wonderful Mars Bar, Milky Ways, M&M’s, Skittles, Snickers, and personally
my favorite the Twix Bar. Last but definitely not least, Domingo Ghirardelli, who was actually
the maker of the delicious drink Hot Chocolate. You will love to hear more about these three
famous chocolatiers.

Milton Hershey is actually one of the most famous people in the candy world. He began
making candy at a very young age. He was in his thirties when he tried starting numerous
different businesses. They all ended up truly failing. Although many of his businesses failed, he
was very positive he would not. So, in 1883 Milton decided to open the Lancaster Caramel
Company. Right before Milton’s eyes, the Caramel Company took off. In 1893 Milton went to a
truly incredible exposition in Chicago where he saw a German company showing how to create
chocolate. So, Hershey decided invent the first ever milk chocolate recipe. Hershey knew
chocolate was only for the rich, but Milton had a dream of turning it into an inexpensive,
everyday treat. After doing dozens of experiments to make the perfect milk chocolate recipe,
he finally found it. So, in 1895 Milton opened the Hershey Chocolate Company. In 1900 Hershey
introduced the first Hershey Bar. Later on he made syrups, kisses, even teddy bears with
chocolate attached to them. The Hershey Co. also owns Reese's, Jolly Ranchers, Kit Kat,
Twizzlers, and Brookside. Next time you see these delicious treats in stores, just remember
without Milton, you would never see milk chocolate. So that is the story of Milton Hershey, and
all that he did for the candy world.

Frank Mars owned one of the largest candy manufacturers in the world. The Mars Candy
Company is actually the only candy company which is more massive than Hershey. The Mars
Candy Company is truly committed to quality and excellence. Frank’s mother taught him how to
han dip chocolate to perfection. M and M’s, which are candies made by the Mars Company, are
surprisingly the most commonly consumed candy in outer space. Isn’t that just out of this
world!

Not only that M and M’s are the official candy of the new millennium. Frank Mars did amazing
things for the candy world by inventing Snickers, M and M’s, Three Musketeers and etc.

Ghirardelli Chocolate Company is surprisingly the second oldest chocolate company. Mr.
Ghirardelli was actually a teen apprentice for a wonderful confectionary company. The
Girardelli Company is a family owned and run business. The Girardelli Company actually the
inventor of the very popular movie snack Flicks. Hershey could not hold a candle to Ghirardelli's
famous hot chocolate. But this was all after Mrs. Ghirardelli decided to open the third most
popular chocolate company, The Ghirardelli Chocolate Company in San Francisco, California.

These three famous chocolatiers all did truly extraordinary things for the candy world.
Hershey did something amazing by making chocolate affordable so it could be a nice everyday
treat. The sweetest of all the Mars Family, who made delicious chocolate bars and wonderful
candies. Then there was Ghirardelli, who made chocolate a rich indulgence, and let’s not forget
about his famous Hot Chocolate. The most famous chocolatier is Milton Hershey because
without Hershey, no other chocolatier would be able to make delicious milk chocolate
products. These three famous chocolatiers didn’t get their fame from their ancestors before
them, they all invented something uniquely different, and worked hard for their name in the
candy world.

Chocolate is such a delicious treat, but it does not get as much credit as it deserves.
Chocolate goes a very long way from tree to mouth, and there is a lot of hard work involved in
it. Chocolatiers have a truly big job by discovering new ways to make chocolate taste better. It
is critical that all chocolatiers are creative, because if they were not, nobody would buy
chocolate. Most importantly, the amazing chocolatiers worked diligently to discover new ways
to use chocolate because without them, we would have bitter chocolate. Chocolate is a
wonderful treat, but the chocolatiers are what make true chocolate.

Bibliography

“Domingo Ghirardelli Inducted into the Candy Hall of Fame in 2012.” Candy Hall of Fame.
National Confectionary Sales Association, 2014,
candyhalloffame.org/CHoF/inductees/2012/domingo-ghirardelli.shtml

“How Is Chocolate Made? From Bean to Bar…” Facts About Chocolate. 2006 – 2012, facts-
about-chocolate.com/how-is-chocolate-made/

Lawrence, Sidney. “The Ghirardelli Story.” California History. The Free Library, 22 March 2002,
ch.ucpress.edu/content/81/2/9

“Mars History Timeline.” Mars. Mars, Incorporated and its Affiliates, 2017,
www.mars.com/global/about-us/history

Mattern, Joanne. The Mars Family: M&M Mars Candy Makers. ABDO, 2011.
---. Milton Hershey: Hershey’s Chocolate Creator. ABDO, 2011.
McMahon, Jr., James D. “Milton Snavely Hershey.” The World Book Multimedia Encyclopedia.

World Book, Inc. 2005.

Teubner, Christian, et al. The Chocolate Bible. Penguin Group, 1997.

“Where Does Chocolate Come from? Does It Grow on Trees?” Facts About Chocolate. 2017,
facts-about-chocolate.com/where-does-chocolate-come-from/

Ziegler, Gregory R. “Chocolate.” The World Book Multimedia Encyclopedia. World Book, Inc.
2005.

Kelly V.

My name is Kelly V., and I am fourteen years old. I have lived just outside of Mexico City,
Mexico, all my life, and have also been homeschooled all my years of education. My mom is an
American missionary, and my dad is a Mexican pastor, and I am the middle child of five kids
whose names are Emily, Caleb, Kelly (me), Nicolas, and Bethany. Ever since I learned to write
basic letters, I have been writing stories and poems, and now my favorite things to do in my
free time are to write poetry and books, one of which I am in the process of editing. Though I
am not notably passionate about music, I teach keyboard at my church and play it in my youth
group. I also teach Sunday School Class to kids ages three to eight on Sunday evenings, which is
surprisingly entertaining and difficult at the same time. I love gymnastics immensely, but I also
enjoy basketball and swimming. A few countries I would like to visit are New Zealand, for its
breathtaking beauty, India, for its vibrant culture, and Great Britain, for its diverse history.

The Service of Lights

A special Christmas church service is a favorite part of the Christmas season for me. My
church comes together every year, on a night the week before Christmas, for a casual activity.
The service is not on Christmas Eve because in Mexico, where the church is, December 24th is
the day of celebration, though the holiday is December 25th. Most of the service is composed of
the singing of Christmas carols and hymns and of several performances. A time is specially set
apart near the end for the congregation to sing Silent Night while the room is lighted only by
the candles resting in the hand of each person. After the service is over there is time for
everyone to have some Christmas fun. This church activity, which is called the Service of Lights,
adds to the excitement and fun that is felt during the Christmas season.

The activity begins with the singing of traditional Christmas hymns and carols, and then
the performances begin. One of the groups of performers is usually the group of little kids, who
sing a different Christmas song each year. The youth sometimes give a performance, which can
be a song that is simply played and sung, or a choreographed song with a Christmas theme.
Other groups that meet at church, such as the women’s group and the men’s group, also often
participate, usually with another special Christmas song, which leads to the fact that there is a
lot of singing in these services! Some years, the older children have put on a short Christmas
pageant, which is very enjoyable because the kids put special touches on it, and the pageant is
especially enjoyed by the parents of those acting. The performers are usually nervous, but try
to concentrate on smiling at the congregation while they sing, or on acting well. Everyone
watching enjoys the performances, and each person displays their delight by clapping at
intervals and some by taking numerous pictures. The performances are a very important part of
this special church activity.

The climax of the service is when the congregation sings Silent Night. After many
candles, which are very small and are different colors, have been passed out to almost
everyone, all the lights are turned out, leaving the place in darkness. Then, one by one, the
candles are lighted, beginning at the front of the church and spreading to the back as more and
more people light each other’s candles. This special act represents the way the gospel spreads
from person to person until there are many “lights” in the world. Soon, candlelight fills the
sanctuary, and everyone experiences joy at the sight of it because it shows how the gospel is
shining in so many hearts. When all the candles have been lighted, everyone joins in singing
Silent Night, accompanied quietly only by the piano’s gentle notes. When we finish singing the
hymn, the lights are turned on again, and all the candles are blown out. This significant part of
the service is fundamental and is the most memorable moment for many in the congregation,
who look forward every year to singing Silent Night while holding a small, glowing candle.

After the service is over, some people stay inside where it is warm, but most head
outside. We gather on a half basketball court in the chilly air, near a playground. The Mexican





Advanced

Conner B.

Setbacks and Failures
The world around us is filled with pain and failure. It seeps into every skyscraper,
suburban house, and alley. Pain and failure slams people into the ground, the whole time
hoping they will never get back up. Every successful man and woman you have seen has faced
this failure. They have experienced pain and defeat like none other. What makes them special is
every time they were set back one step they took two more forward. Throughout the course of
my life, I have experienced the same pattern of setbacks and failures. My most recent setback
took place at Cuesta Community College. Thankfully, through my experience, I was able to
grow and become a better person.
This semester I am taking two classes, Introduction to Business and U.S. History. Both of
these classes have challenged my ingenuity and intelligence. I went in to my history class
expecting it to be a breeze; I would give it half of my attention and still pass with flying colors.
History has never been a problem for me, I always memorized whatever I needed to and
crammed the rest in the night before an exam. Of the two classes I am taking, History is the one
that took me by surprise.
Little did I know, that class would stretch my learning ability to its limit! On the day I
received my first exam grade, I knew I was going to struggle. I walked quickly to the front of the
class and took my Scantron from the teacher with a quick pinch of the fingers. When I sat back
down at my desk and realized that I had gotten a C, I was devastated. The rest of the week I
pondered why. Why did I get such a low grade? Why could I not do better? At the end of the
week I decided that my best available option was to study, and study hard. I began to read
every chapter in my textbook multiple times, highlighting and underlining every interesting fact.
This stretched my brain to its intellectual limit.
One month later I sat back down in the very same chair as before. This time I was ready,
ready to demolish this exam and raise my grade to the letter I wanted it to be. I spent forty-five
minutes on that test, and by the end of it I was extremely confident in my results. The next
week I got my Scantron back and saw that I received an A. I was extremely proud that I was able
to set my mind to a task and achieve the goal I had made for myself.
Throughout the course of my life, I have experienced the same pattern of setbacks and
failures. When I learned that I got a C on my first exam, I could have given up. Instead I used
that failure to fuel my desire to study, and it paid off. The saddest part of failing is not the
failure itself. The saddest part is if one does not pick himself or herself back up and use the
opportunity to improve. I plan on using this philosophy for the rest of my life, always learning
from my mistakes.

Miriam B.

Hi, co-writing mates! My name is Miriam, and I am seventeen. Being the second in my
lively family of eight siblings, with varying ages and stages, helps to supply me with an
abundance of things to do. I live on a farm in Pennsylvania, which my Dad crop farms, and also
we do a little shepherding. I do not get very involved in the shepherding thing with brothers
who are better at it than I. ☺ My school years are coming to an end as I will be graduating!
Graduation looks exciting and daunting at times.... a speech? Happily, my brother, a cousin, and
a friend will also be graduating with me. What do I enjoy doing? Sewing, especially the end
product, can be rewarding and enjoyable. Portraiture drawing and photography are challenging
fun, with adorable siblings as my main subjects. I also like to write stories when I’m inspired. I
enjoy events with youth, a few friends, or family times with grandparents and cousins. I am
looking forward to meeting you through your paragraphs. Have a good summer.

Remember Home When You Go to Roam

Let’s take a vacation and go on a trip out west! With my entire family of 10, we started
off on our much-awaited trip. Zipping into Iowa and then on to Montana, we made it the whole
way out to Alberta, Canada. It was good to get away from our daily life because it provided an
extended opportunity to have family times. We toured various national parks. Reconnecting
with old friends and creating new ones was a highlight which we don’t get to enjoy every day,
and we wouldn’t want to forget the adventures we had that fortunately added to the
excitement. Our dreams and plans of taking a vacation out west finally came true!

Our trip out in the west was packed with places that I had never ventured before. Iowa
made for a special start on our travels because there we went to the wedding of Willie and
Susan. After arriving in the Badlands, we took our leisurely time to crawl and explore those
huge, yellow rocks. The snow in Glacier Park and sandals made our hike a little more
interesting. We crossed the borders of Canada safely before staying with some friends for
three nights. The fish which my brother caught in Yellowstone was the trophy of our trip.
Kansas and Ohio brought us closer to home! A trip to new places is certainly worth it!

Many of the highlights on our trip were spend with friends and people we met who all
made us feel welcomed and at home. Thanks to Ben and Debbie, we had a place to park our
whole kit and caboodle of maxi van, camper, and the ten of us when we were in Iowa. Laban,
who is Dad’s cousin, and his family, hosted us in Montana before we all went to see Glacier
Park. Willie and Dora graciously welcomed us into their lovely Canadian home. Up on windy,
rolling Alberta hills, they spread out quite a picnic feast for us. With our faces toward home, we
arrived in Kansas where we stopped by at John’s, who goes to a horse and buggy church.
Several of us enjoyed a horseback ride. Next “friend” stop in Kansas brought us to Lawrence
and Beth’s. Younger children finally had other little children to play with. Ohio came next on
our trip homeward, and we were happily greeted by our dear old time friends, Ben and Lucy
(who we like to call Uncle and Aunt). Now we have many happy memories of our rip spent with
friends.

Interesting and out-of-the-ordinary adventures added to the excitement of our trip. We
were so thankful for the safety that was granted us after we left Iowa and had stopped in at the
Corn Palace. My older sister, Kaitlyn, who was sixteen at the time, decided to try driving our
great caravan. We were listening to singing and driving blithely away when Kaitlyn yelped. A
pick-up truck of some sort was zooming across the median toward us. She started pulling off to
the side when the truck gained more control and swerved away. An exhilarating ride was taken
in a helicopter for some of us. Indian dances and buying baby moccasins (for the new baby)
was educational. Even Dad became understandably a little light headed when we drove Going-
to-the-Sun-Road in Glacier. POP! Two tires had decided their duty was finished in the barrens
of Montana and popped on us as we were zipping down a highway. We then had to unhook
the camper and drive 40 miles to get tires and drive 40 miles back before we could proceed in
our usual manner. Aside from most of the floor under the bathroom sink breaking out because
when the tires blew it went along, we were alright. A creek in Yellowstone gave us refreshing
wading, swimming, and some fishing. A few of our exciting adventures were worth the ride.

Sometimes it is just good to take a vacation away from our normal life. We certainly
visited many different and unique places. Building new and old friendships became a special

part. We had unexpected adventures and excursions which created memories to treasure.
Enjoying the experiences with just our family was important, and because we did not have

many other responsibilities, we could enjoy them even more. Growing relationships inside and
outside of our little world was encouraging. Yes, it is great to take a vacation, but it is also

wonderful to come back home.

Matthew C.

My name is Matthew C. I am 17 years old, and I am a senior currently living in
Pennsylvania. I am an Eagle Scout and highly active in my Boy Scout Troop 518. Next year I will
be attending Marywood University in Scranton, Pennsylvania, to pursue a degree in
Architecture. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with friends, going on scout campouts,
filmmaking and animation, and video games. Plans for the future include getting my degree in
Architecture and becoming a registered professional architect.

Do Violent Video Games Cause Permanent Harm to Teenagers?
Matthew C.

Write for Success

Abstract

This research paper discusses the effects of violent video games on the minds of teenagers and
whether or not these games are harmful. Violent video games have been the subject of many
articles and studies, but different studies have different findings. This paper will focus mainly on
the long-term effects of violent video games instead of the short-term effects. For research,
scientific and psychological journals were consulted which summarized many of the recent
studies concerning this area. The purpose of this paper is to explore some of these studies and
determine what long-term effect result from playing violent video games.

Do Violent Video Games Cause Permanent Harm to Teenagers?

Ever since video games emerged in arcades, and eventually into people’s homes,
parents have worried that these games could be causing harm to their children. Many of the
early games were relatively innocent. Pac Man and Space Invaders were completely unrealistic
but still provided hours of fun for children who played them. The violence in these games was
minimal, and what violence did exist was cartoon violence and did not at all simulate real life.
However, as video games developed and became more realistic, concerns also developed
around whether or not these games were harming those who played them. Games changed
from Pac Man and Mario into First Person Shooters such as Call of Duty and Battlefield which
featured realistic graphics and lots of violence. Many studies claimed that these games were
permanently harmful to the minds of those who played them. However, more recent studies
indicate that no conclusive evidence exists supporting the idea that video games incite long-
term mental harm or violent behavior in children.

There have been many studies that claim that video games cause youth violence and
reduce empathy. While video games are certainly not a cause of youth violence, they can cause
changes in the levels of empathy that children have and how they treat others. Brad Bushman,
a social psychologist from the Ohio State University, explains that “playing violent video games
probably will not turn your child into a psychopathic killer, but I would want to know how the
child treats his or her parents, how they treat their siblings, how much compassion they have”
(Vedantam 2011). Video games do not cause youth violence, although many studies have
attempted to find a link between the two. However, while video games do not cause children to
commit mass shootings, they have been linked to increased aggression on a much smaller scale.
Violent video games have been proven to cause increased aggression when dealing with other
people such as parents and siblings, although experts are unsure whether this change is caused
by the actual violent nature of the video games, or by the competitive nature of many of the
games in this genre. "Many of the games do have morally objectionable material and I think
that is where a lot of the debate on this issue went off the rails," says Chris Ferguson, a
psychologist at the Texas A&M International University. He continues to say that "we kind of
mistook our moral concerns about some of these video games, which are very valid — I find
many of the games to be morally objectionable — and then assumed that what is morally
objectionable is harmful" (Vedantam 2011). Many of the studies done automatically assume
that the violent content is harmful simply because it is morally objectionable to some people
and then attempt to find information to support that claim. While the morally objectionable
content is certainly a real concern, scientists and researchers are unsure whether this is actually
what causes the change in aggression. Morally objectionable content such as adult themes,
nudity, and drugs, certainly do not belong in any video game, and should thus be avoided by
everyone. However, the violent content does not harm youth, nor should it be assumed that it
causes them to commit acts of violence. Ultimately, while playing violent video games has been
shown to cause minimal short term spikes in aggression, this should certainly not be deemed as
“harmful,” and should not prevent anyone from playing them unless the game in question also
features morally offensive content.

Although there have been many studies claiming video games are harmful, many of the
studies that examine the harmful effects of video games are flawed. Ferguson (2011) states
that, “Since most video game experiments only have players play for short periods of time,
often for as little as 10 minutes, and violent games tend to be more difficult to learn and have
more complex controls than non-violent games, it appears that many participants in these
experiments may simply have been frustrated by being cut off so quickly before they even
learned how to play, rather than by the violent content of the game”. These studies only give
participants a short period of time to play the games before evaluating them. To then assume
that the results of the study also apply to the long term is foolish. Many violent video games
have a steep learning curve and require hours of practice to actually become good at the game.

First Person Shooter (FPS) games such as Call of Duty, Battlefield, and Counter Strike Global
Offensive place you head to head with other players, many of whom spend many hours a day
practicing and playing. Of course, participants in the study would become frustrated at being
the worst player in the game. Researchers cannot tie increased aggression to the violent
content of the video game without a much more substantial study of gamers over a long period
of time. A recent study by a team of German researchers attempted to provide a better
understanding of the long-term effects of video games. An article in Science Daily gave an
overview of the study which explains that “researchers used functional magnetic resonance
imaging (fMRI) on long-term players of violent video games and found that they had the same
neural response to emotionally provocative images as non-gamers” (Science Daily 2017). The
study itself examined regular gamers who spent an average of four hours a day playing violent
video games like Call of Duty and Counter Strike. The gamers were all male and had been
playing the games for at least four years. The study also required that they refrain from playing
the game for a minimum of three hours before the study took place (Science Daily 2017). The
results of the study showed no difference in empathy and emotional response between gamers
and non-gamers. MRI scans revealed the same areas of the brain reacting with similar levels of
activity. This study refuted the hypothesis that video games were harmful in the long run and
could steadily increase aggression over time. Instead, the negative effects of violent video
games were proven to be only temporary. Over long periods of time, violent video games are
not harmful to either the development of children, or their personality.

While violent video games do cause minimal amounts of short term aggression,
researchers have linked the spikes in aggression to the competitive nature of the game and not
the actual violent content. A peer-reviewed study in Psychology of Violence determined that
the competitive nature of a video game was related to aggressive behavior, regardless of
whether the game contained violent content or not (ProCon.org). A recent study tested the
reactions of people playing a violent medieval game against the reactions of people playing a
racing game. Both of the games were considered to be equally as competitive and difficult.
Participants were then given a task and their levels of aggression towards other people was
measured. The researchers found similar levels of aggression in both groups (Adachi 2011). This
means that researchers have been falsely linking the aggression to the violence in the game
instead of other factors. People watching violent movies show no such signs of increased
aggression while gamers playing violent games do. The difference is in the interactive feature of
the game. It is quite easy to get frustrated with a game whether because of a lack of skill
compared to other players or because the game is just too difficult. The competitive nature of
these games is what sparks increased aggression, not the content of the games. The violent
content has not been proven to cause any long-term psychological effects. An article in
ProCon.org goes on to explain that “because past studies have failed to equate the violent and
nonviolent video games on competitiveness, difficulty, and pace of action simultaneously,

researchers may have attributed too much of the variability in aggression to the violent
content. Previous studies have compared violent video games to non-violent video games.
However, the competitive nature of the games was drastically different. In order to properly
draw a conclusion about the adverse effects of the violent content itself, researchers would
need to find a way to isolate the content from the competitive nature of the game. Albeit,
many violent video games are competitive by nature, facing players off against other players
around the world. So, is it fair to separate the violent content too much from the gameplay
style itself? Regardless, many experts and researchers alike agree that it is not the violence in
video games that causes aggression, but the nature of the gameplay and the competitive side
of these games themselves.

Because of these short-term findings about the influence of competitive games, many
people have claimed that violent video games have caused an increase in youth violence and
crimes by desensitizing them to violence, but the evidence simply does not support this claim.
“Quite simply, the research just hasn't panned out,” explains Christopher Ferguson (2011) in an
article in Time Magazine. “For one thing, even while video game sales have skyrocketed, youth
violence plummeted to its lowest levels in 40 years according to government statistics”
(Ferguson 2011). Video games have become increasingly popular in recent years, with the
markets being dominated by violent titles like Call of Duty and Grand Theft Auto. Games are
constantly being updated and released to teens and adults alike who consistently buy the
newest games and spend hours a week playing them. If violent video games and youth violence
are linked, then should not an increase in the popularity and sale of violent video games also
lead to an increase in youth violence? However, this has not been the case. Youth violence has
dropped to its lowest level ever in a long time. Perhaps video games are to thank. In a paper for
the American Psychological Association, Patrick Markey, Charlotte Markey, and Juliana French
(2014) discuss the correlation between violent video games and real life violence and found
none. “If video games are really the equivalent of flight simulators training people to kill... it is
difficult to explain why homicide rates would go down after millions of these 'murder
simulators' have been sold. When the media, politicians, or researchers link the murderous
rampages of male adolescents with violent video games, they are conveying a classic illusory
correlation... These individuals are ignoring that 90% of young males play video games.” Many
people falsely assume that video games are training young people how to be soldiers or
criminals. Violent video games claim to be “realistic,” but the reality is that nothing can
accurately simulate real world violence. Just because a teenager is good at a violent video game
that involves his avatar shooting a gun, does not mean that that teenager is adept at using a
gun or has even ever fired one. A popular game called Rainbow Six is a game that places players
in the shoes of elite counter terrorist forces such as SWAT and Seal Team Six. However, in the
real situation, players wouldn’t have a clue what to do. Video games do not train people to be
soldiers or killers. Yes, many of these games depict violence that mimics real situations. But it is

still only a game. Soldiers do not train using video games. They go out on the field and practice
real world skills with their team. If 90% of young men play video games, it is beyond foolish to
assume that just because a criminal plays Call of Duty, the video game must be the cause of his
actions. As the authors from the American Psychological Association explain, if video games
truly did turn people into killers and criminals, then crime and murder rates should increase the
more video games are sold. However, this is simply not the case.

While video games do not train real world soldiers, they do have real world applications.
Violent video games allow players to release their stress and anger in the game, leading to less
real world aggression. A study published in the Journal of Adolescent Health found that, “Many
children seem to use games to manage their emotions, particularly boys; 61.9% of boys played
to ‘help me relax,’ 47.8% because ‘it helps me forget my problems,’ and 45.4% because ‘it helps
me get my anger out’” (Olson, et al 2007). Many people find that video games are a source of
stress relief especially ones that fall into the violent genre. For many, nothing is quite as
satisfying as shooting a group of aliens or taking place in a virtual car chase. Violent video
games can get adrenaline pumping, and defeating the enemy rewards players with a certain
satisfaction. For some people, violence is their only form of stress relief. However, there are
certainly more productive ways to manage that stress than punching a wall, and one of these
ways is playing violent video games. Video games are a way to remove oneself from reality for a
while and focus on something else that is not stressful. An article in the Journal of Adolescent
Research explains that “[b]oys use games to experience fantasies of power and fame, to
explore and master what they perceive as exciting and realistic environments (but distinct from
real life), to work through angry feelings or relieve stress, and as social tools. Boys did not
believe they had been harmed by violent games but were concerned that younger children
might imitate game behavior (especially swearing) (Olson, Kutner, Warner 2008). Video games
are fantasy. They allow players to be something that would never be possible otherwise – a
super soldier, a robot, or superhero. Video games allow players to use their imagination to
create new worlds and adventures.

Not only are video games a source of stress relief and anger management for many
teens, studies also have shown that there are fewer instances of gun violence in countries
where video games are very popular. An article on ProCon.org states that “per capita video
game sales were $5.20 in the United States compared to $47 in Japan. In 2005, the United
States had 2,279 murders committed by teenagers (27.9 per million residents) compared to 73
in Japan (3.1 per million).” This study shows that violent video games are not the cause of gun
related crimes. Violent video games may actually be a way to keep potential criminals busy and
keep them out of the crime world. Obviously, it is better for a person with naturally violent
tendencies to spend their time playing video games than to exercise violence on other people.
Many people claim that violent video games are a cause of increased gun violence, but these
claims do not match the statistics. Perhaps a way to reduce gun violence is to promote video

games that have been shown to minimize that. The article at ProCon.org goes on to say that “a
study of the countries representing the 10 largest video game markets internationally found no
correlation between playing video games and gun-related killings.” If violent video games truly
caused young people to be violent, then the top ten countries with the largest video game sales
should also have the most violence. People are quick to blame violent video games for an
increase in violence, but the evidence just does not support that. Instead, the statistics and
evidence show the opposite; that the more video games are played, the less gun violence
occurs.

Finally, a Supreme Court case, Brown v. Entertainment Merchants Ass'n, that occurred in
2011 ruled that violent video games do not cause increased aggression. The case, which
declared that the state of California could not ban the sale of M-Rated video games to minors,
states “California cannot meet that standard. At the outset, it acknowledges that it cannot
show a direct causal link between violent video games and harm to minors” (Brown v.
Entertainment Merchants Ass'n 2011). The Supreme Court ruled that the First Amendment
protected the sale of violent video games to minors because the state could not prove that they
are harmful. California, like many others, failed to find a strong link between violent video
games and violent crime or harm to gamers. The Majority Opinion goes on to say that “these
studies have been rejected by every court to consider them, and with good reason: They do not
prove that violent video games cause minors to act aggressively (which would at least be a
beginning). Instead, '[n]early all of the research is based on correlation, not evidence of
causation, and most of the studies suffer from significant, admitted flaws in methodology’”
(Brown v. Entertainment Merchants Ass'n 2011). The Court acknowledges the many flaws in
previous tests and studies around violent video games and found that these studies do not
actually prove that video games are harmful, despite their attempts to do so. Brown v.
Entertainment Merchants Ass'n is one of the first examples that publicly discredits many of the
studies done based on flawed research. It is easy to accept these studies without further
research, but the studies that have been performed recently, which strive to truly discover the
truth and ensure that the results are accurate, find that video games are not harmful in the long
term, and may even provide long-term benefits.

After research, it is clear that violent video games pose no real permanent harm to
those who play them. These games have been the subject of many tests and studies which
claim that they are both good and bad. Many of the older studies that claim video games are
harmful and cause aggression, were only short term findings that were misapplied to the long
term. Recent studies, however, have ensured that the long-term effects can be studied instead
of the short term. These studies conclude that violent video games are not harmful and do not
cause long-term aggression. Does this mean a four-year old should play an M-Rated shooter?
No, it does not. However, it does mean that teens and adults who play violent video games are
not harmed by the games they play. Obviously, games that contain immoral content should

















when I was four years old, Christina comforted me as we sat on two large stones in my front
yard while I cried because my brother went away to college for the first time. No matter what
hard situation I faced, I could always count on her to be there for me. Although these are only a
couple of examples, I have thousands of more stories of how Christina has shown the depth of
her loyalty and support.

It has always been a blessing to have a friend like Christina who demonstrates so many
amazing characteristics. Her sportiness has allowed us to develop a closer bond, and her love
of the outdoors has allowed us to spend hours exploring and venturing throughout our yards.
Although these two things have helped foster our friendship, the best thing about Christina is
how good of a friend she is. Knowing that she is always there for me comforts me more than
her ability to run quickly or find a cool bug. This is why she has always been as close as a sister
to me.

Cody G.

Over the years, I have acquired the skill of freestyle cooking which has enabled me to
cook delicious meals using limited ingredients. I will sometimes want to make dinner or a snack
during the day. Looking in the fridge, I see that I do not have many ingredients with which to
work. Using past experience, I know it is helpful to take everything out of the refrigerator and
onto the counter where I can see all that I have. As I brainstorm which dish I can make out of
what I have, I start picking out the ingredients that I will need. After I have a picture of what I
will make, I start mixing and sautéing until eventually I end up with a colorful and excellent
tasting dish. Freestyle cooking has helped me greatly in throwing dishes together with limited
ingredients.

Since freestyle cooking can vary in what I use, some new and interesting dishes are able
to come to light. With all of the different ingredients that I use during a freestyle session, I
either intentionally or accidentally make a new dish. Sometimes the dish can be extremely tasty
or pretty bad tasting. That is just one of the things I like about freestyle cooking, you never
know what you are going to get at the end. The new dishes that I have made I enjoy very much
and hope more will wiggle their way into my cooking.

Over the years there have been a few times where freestyle cooking has helped me to
make a meal on the spot without preparation. Sometimes my mom calls to tell me to make
something for the family, or need to find a meal to make for company coming over. Because of
the practice I have had with freestyle cooking, I can easily and efficiently make a tasty meal with
just the ingredients in the pantry and refrigerator. Having that skill can be very helpful when
you don’t have time to run to the store or just don’t have anything planned for the meal.
Cooking on the spot is just another wonderful skill to have in your pocket.

Marianne G.

My name is Marianne, and I am a freshman. I have been homeschooled for the past few
years and plan on attending Running Start my last two years in high school as I wish to obtain
my doctorate in veterinary medicine and Running Start will help me reduce costs by letting me
take two years of classes tuition free. To become a veterinarian, you must have many hours
with animals; therefore, I joined 4-H to obtain more experience. I am currently the president of
my 4-H cat club and a member on my county’s 4-H council. At my county’s fair, I am the teen
superintendent for the cat barn, show my 4-H cats, and do public presentations on stage. In
addition, I have participated in Washington’s State Fair doing the same activities. I am currently
on the planning team for the Western Washington 2017 4-H Teen Rally as it will be held in my
county this year. I have also attended state events through 4-H like Know Your Government.

Blizzards: From Mother Gaea Inc.

In a world of Greek gods and monsters, an ad starts to play in front of millions of evil
gods and monsters…

These 100% vegan death machines are formed an all-natural way! Using cold air,
moisture, and warm rising air forms a BLIZZARD. Here at Mother Gaea Inc. we keep the process
simple. The cold air rushes towards the equator which forces the warm air to rise and form a
cold front. This front is what creates the precipitation. A blizzard has winds that are at least 35
mph with no visibility within a quarter mile. If your blizzard does not last for more than 3 hours,
you will normally receive 100% of your money back because that would be a snowstorm. Our
blizzards come with free blinding deep drifts and deathly wind chills! We use your product’s
native formation to ensure its performance!

Our blizzards will ensure many dangers to anyone within contact! Traveling is nearly
impossible for any mortals! The snow causes whiteouts which affect mortal eyesight drastically.
Our famous wind-chill temperature is known to cause frostbite, and in some cases
hypothermia! Frostbite will cause permanent tissue damage. Hypothermia is, in most cases,
fatal! It results in death because it causes failure in the heart and lungs. We give you our
guarantee that any mortal against blizzards will be vulnerable!

If your mortals are prepared for such an attack, the death rate decreases. Removing
these key items from play will ensure their demise! Candles, matches, radios, blankets, wood
stove, and food and water rations ensure your mortals will survive when worriedly trapped. If
they store these supplies in a car, they are more likely to survive in fatal conditions. Obliterating
all cell phone usage with an EMP (or your powers) is highly recommended to prevent rescue
missions. Destroy shovels, snow blowers, flamethrowers, and any other snow removal
equipment, because you want to ensure they will not adapt or escape. Making sure the mortals
of your intended region are not prepared is essential.

If that hasn’t convinced you, look at our record that keeps our clients with us for
millenniums! In the U.S. alone we have had some of the most memorable success rates. In 1888
the Schoolchildren’s Blizzard destroyed 235 mortals because the temperature had dropped
more than 100 degrees with no warning. Also in 1888, the U.S.’s most famous blizzard occurred
in the Northeast. From New York to Massachusetts, the Great White Hurricane grew to 30-50
inches of snow. The wind was violently whipping at 40 mph with gusts of 80 mph! This
menacing blizzard destroyed over 400 mortals and over 200 ships were snared by the sea. In
1949 the worst U.S. case occurred. The Great White Death annihilated over 100 mortals and
one million livestock heads. It’s our record that keeps bringing consumers to Mother Gaea Inc.
for their disaster needs for centuries!

Taylor G.

My name is Taylor G., and I’m 15 years old. I’m a sophomore in high school and live in
Wisconsin, USA. I have three brothers: Nick, Cody, and Caden. When my parents aren’t
bothering me about school, I like to game on the computer or Xbox and make videos of the
gameplay I record. I play baseball when there are games and if my parents haven’t grounded
me. My favorite food is Buffalo Wild Wings, Subway, Pizza, and fettuccini alfredo. When I grow
up I want to join the Airforce and be a pilot. My favorite music is rap, although I do like some
pop.

My Best Vacation

My favorite vacation I’ve ever taken was with my family in August, 2016. We went to
the North-West area of lower Michigan. It is a family tradition and a relaxing trip. We could
freely swim on the beach almost every day, which made it a choice event. Because we were
able to go kayaking and tubing on Lake Michigan, it made it a special event for all of us. This
relaxing, happy vacation with my family is my favorite.

Swimming on the beach in Michigan is fun and relaxing. To get to the beach, it is only a
short walk from our house. It is always warm out, and the weather is beautiful. The beaches
aren’t very crowded most of the time, which gives us plenty of space to ourselves. Because
there are so many interesting things to observe under the water, we spend a good amount of
time scanning the lake floor. The sand is always pleasantly warm and not too that it burns out
feet. Being able to swim on beaches in Michigan is very fun and relaxing.

The lakes of Michigan are wonderful to tube on. From our house, it is only a short drive,
but we have to rent a speedboat on our way there. Because we thought it would be enjoyable
to have our lunch (pizza) on the water, we waited till around the middle of the day to start out,
which still gave us lots of time to tube. When we finally got on the tubes, we fought each other
to see who could tip the other one over first. It was a beautifully sunny day, and the water was
warm. At the end of the day we were tired but happy. Tubing is very fun on the lakes of
Michigan.

Kayaking on Lake Michigan is an enjoyable experience. First, we had to drive
from our house to the rental place. Next, because I didn’t want to sail that day, I selected a nice
kayak. My brothers decided to choose a sailboat instead of a kayak, and we got them in the
water. We went far out toward the middle of the lake, which we realized was harder going
back in. We docked our kayaks and sailboat, got some delicious food, and went home. This
was my enjoyably fun experience kayaking on Lake Michigan.

My vacation to Michigan with my family was by far the best vacation I’ve ever had. We
swam almost every day of the week on our vacation, because it was fun and refreshing. I liked
tubing with my brothers, which was very exciting trying to flip each other off the tube. When
we went kayaking it was relaxing, and the kayak cut nicely through the smooth water like a
knife through warm butter. It is our yearly tradition to visit Michigan, because it helps us relax
and reset ourselves for the new year to come. My Michigan vacation was the best I’ve had with
my family.

Elizabeth He.

Hi, my name is Elizabeth H. I am 16 years old, the youngest of five, and happily
homeschooled all my life. Being creative, cooking, and baking are some of the activities that I
enjoy. Playing board and card games with my family and friends is always a fun time. I love
doing service. My church’s youth group activities are the highlight of my week.

Preparing for Thanksgiving Dinner

A turkey does not magically appear on your Thanksgiving table, a series of steps occur before
hand; the first of these is raising the turkey. This exhilarating journey starts on a humble farm where
turkeys are bred. This turkey farm is maintained by a lonely farmer named Shem who spends his days
feeding and caring for his prized turkeys. Every day, Shem walks out to the beautiful, green pasture to
feed the hungry turkeys. By the time the Shem arrives at the pasture, tears are in his eyes because he
knows that one day the turkeys will all be sold. As Shem tosses the grain with his tired hands he counts
the days until Thanksgiving. It saddens Shem to seen the turkeys gobble up the food he offers them, not
perceiving what is about to happen to them. The first step, raising the turkeys, is essential to this
lengthy journey.

The next step in this interesting journey is preparing the turkey. After the turkey has been sold,
there is a fair amount of work that still needs completing before it suitable for the Thanksgiving table.
The turkey has to be killed and clean. This journey continues in a cozy house in the suburbs where Mrs.
Walton is rising with the sun in order to make the turkey perfectly delicious. She tiptoes around the
spotless kitchen because Mrs. Walton fears waking her handsome husband and lovely children as she
makes her famous stuffing. Mrs. Walton smiles while she stuffs the turkey because Thanksgiving is her
favorite holiday. Slowly, her family starts to trickle into the kitchen. Everyone is excited, although still
groggy, as they discuss what they will eat that night. Finally, after hours of work the turkey is ready for
the oven. Mr. Walton, who is strong, gently places the turkey in the oven. The Walton family cooks
other dishes and prepares for their guest to arrive. Then after cooking all day, the turkey is finally ready
to come out of the oven. It takes a good deal of work to prepare the turkey, but it is worth it in the end.

Once all the preparations were complete, it was finally time to devour the scrumptious
Thanksgiving dinner. It was late afternoon, around three o’clock, when the Walton family and the food
were prepared. Everyone was dressed in fancy outfits. The adults made last minute preparations to the
dishes that they brought, while the kids ran and had fun. After all the work was completely done, the
family gathered together in the formal dining room. Mr. Walton who was in charge tried to calm down
his exited and noisy family because the dinner was cooling. Eventually, everyone was quiet and smiling
as each member of the family expressed what they were thankful for. Thanksgiving dinner was a great
success due to the extensive preparations beforehand.

Elizabeth Ho.

Hey!! My name is Lizzie H. I am in 10th grade, but I am taking some college courses.
Presently I will start classes for firefighting, which will allow me to contribute more at the
firehouse. As of present, I am just a junior firefighter. I have six brothers, one sister, a dog,
eight laying hens, and a hamster. Yes, it is an eventful household :) I enjoy any sport, which I
use to help coach for Push the Rock, a homeschool ministry. I enjoy working with young
children. One day I hope to be a missionary in a third world country. This summer I am going on
a trip, with my church, to Swaziland, Africa. I cannot wait to go, for it will be an eye-opener. I
also have never been on a plane before. (Not a good idea to watch Sully and Castaways) I love
old comedians, Don Knotts and Dick Van Dycke, and of course Rocky Balboa.

Christianity

The nail thudded, the blood flowed from his open wounds, drip by dip hitting the dew
damp grass, staining over old criminal blood stains. But this one Man is not a criminal, unless
love is a crime. I placed this Man there. I have sinned, His blood is on my hands. It is on us all.
Did this Man have to go through this agony? With a contorted face, stripped of all dignity, He
suffers, for what? Us. What can I do to make His pain, worthwhile for Him?

What is Christianity? Is it just saying yes to God once, going on as before? Some people
also struggle with making Christianity real to themselves. How are they able to fulfill this need?

Throughout history, Christians have been persecuted in some cultures and revered in
others. In America, the Christian faith was the foundation on which the country built its
governing ideals. Because of this, Christianity was an accepted and even welcomed faith.
However, as in other countries, public sentiment can change. Do people, today still have the
high respect once held for Christians? If not, from whose fault does this lack of trust stem?
These are some of the main questions that are being searched out.

On occasion Christians will notice hostility communicated silently, or even verbally from
“friends.” What do they truly think? There was a phase when a considerable amount of respect
was once maintained for believers, but culture has altered its interpretation towards Christian
beliefs. Bible Thumper and Holy Roller are just a limited number of words that have been used
to label Christians over the years, implying that Christians do not practice what they frequently
preach, proving that they do not appreciate this. Hypocrites is a more precise word. “People
just use Christianity to hide behind their evil lives.” Have you ever overheard that before? Much
unfriendliness is intended towards Christians.

There are numerous explanations for this verbal persecution. Mainly, people struggle in
tolerating truth, emphasizing on the phrase, “Kill the messenger.” No one discovers delight
when someone communicates to them that their actions should be adapted, particularly if
they recognize that they themselves truly participate in wrong doings. When Christians are
persistently undertaking right and verbalizing true and holy words, people develop great
agitation. This factor causes a limit of relationships Christians are capable of holding among
non-believers. This is just one of the multiple reasons that Christians are, on occasion, not
accepted in certain social groups.

Though it is more comfortable to continuously choose to indicate that these are false
accusations, can several of them be accurate? When considered extensively, some of them will
expose the reality behind their wounding descriptions. When some people say that religious
people thrust their religion on others, does one search out the motive behind this hurtful dig,
take it as a blow, sitting miserably, nursing hurt wounds, or use accusations to improve
themselves in the area they mistakenly handled incorrect in the situation? Focusing on
“catching people” in the Christian religion, basically “forcing religion,” is an example of what

Christians will frequently attempt instead of focusing on building strong relationships with
multiple others. Some of these accusations can be considered true, can be recycled, and can be
processed to help strengthen a Christian’s walk with Jesus Christ.

Sadly, currently people do not value Christians enough to display plentiful respect. Two
faults essentially cause this mistrust concerning believers. The first stems from non-believers
struggling to accept the truth. The second originates as a result of the believer’s inability to live
as a light, through love. Christians no longer possess the same position as they did with the
founding of the United States as a country.

Prayer is one of the crucial parts of Christianity, if not used, Christians are neglecting
there battle ground. Christians maintain the capability to pray for any reason, though God’s
will, shall always have final rule. Can Christians truly, lightly use their sword, in everyday life?

Is there a true reason behind Christian’s prayer? When Christians pray, they have the
realization with each humble, but heartfelt word, they are triggering an opening door that
allows Christ’s hand to enter the situation. Angels cannot join in the combat for humans, unless
they have opened the door for Christ. If Christians do not pray, Satan has occupied the full reign
of the situation. Many take this particular battle ground of Christianity for granted, not realizing
the true reason they should be praying. Prayer is very essential, for it is a Christian’s sword, and
must not be used doubtfully.

How should Christians pray? Christians must constantly have something to back their
petition. George Muller would never petition God for one single request unless he located in
the scriptures a passage that supported his requests. Locating that passage, he would pray
“with his finger placed on that passage,” lifting his prayers to the father. When praying,
Christians should have the realization that their prayers will be answered. A prayer muttered
halfheartedly will not reach the ears of God. Man must mean every word from his heart.
Christians should pray for Christ’s will to be done.

Will all prayers be answered? Numerous times, prayers will be responded to with a yes.
For God knows the desires of a man’s heart. And just like a parent, He loves his children and
holds the desire for them to be satisfied. Many prayers, however, will remain unanswered.
Some cannot be answered, for it was not meant from the heart. A half-hearted, mumbled
prayer will certainly not touch the ears of God. It must be destined from the heart. Frequently,
God will not answer yes or no, but uses a person’s weak request to further strengthen that
person’s walk with him. When the brethren prays for a request they desire to be fulfilled and
believe God desires it to happen and the answer is no, they must react with a humble
acceptance. Consider a father and his young child accompanying him to the store. As all
children will do, this child gives a plea for candy. Wisely the father declares no, for he realizes
his wife is preparing a dinner for them and if the child consumes candy that he desires, he will
not be hungry enough to enjoy the large dinner. God is the father, and we are His children. If He