The Lighter Side of History/Fashion, Sports, and Fashion, Sports, and

Entertainment: Entertainment: Where Does Social Studies Fit In?Where Does Social Studies Fit In?

The Lighter Side of History/The Lighter Side of History/Fashion, Sports, and Entertainment: Fashion, Sports, and Entertainment:

Where Does Social Studies Fit In?Where Does Social Studies Fit In?

Ditmas I.S. 62Classes 801, 802, and 803Barry Kevorkian, Principal

Mr. David Liotta, Social Studies Educator/Film Director and Creator of DNN News -

801, 802, 803-Coach

Mr. Terence Caufield, Social Studies Educator 803-Coach

We, The Students - Writing Institute Press Dr. Rose Cherie Reissman,

Founder of the Writing Institute

Ditmas Offi ce Team whose efforts support the Writing InstituteKathie CarrollMary ErricoJoey LeoneRosalie Pinto

Production/Press Preparation TeamProduction/Press Preparation TeamChief Editors: Ambre Hall Faith Iyahen Rosalie Goldhagen

Art Editors/Cover Designers Joshua Swaby Afik Comedie

Writing Editors: Dylan Canete Sumaira Butt Sahbreena Jasmin Ricardo Jones Amanda Xavier, Proofreader-English Language Arts Teacher

Ismael Batista, Designer

Jesus Berenstein, Photographer

College Commentary: Peter Pinto, St. Francis College

High School Commentary:Elizabeth Valenzuela, Editor-in-Chief of The Cabrini Courier, Mother Cabrini High School

Students from the Marilyn David Ivdu High School

Thanks to Ivdu Principal Ms. Chavie Khan and Braha Einhorn, Ivdu Language Arts Specialist

Published June 2012-Writing Institute PressWriting Institute Press700 Cortelyou RoadBrooklyn, NY 11218Dr. Rose Cherie Reissman, Founder

Special thanks to : Kathie Carroll, Maria Errico, Joey Leone, and Rosalie Pinto-Ditmas Office Staff- They make the Writing Institute possible

Joshua SwabyJoshua SwabyIt was easy to find a picture of the title Light Side

of History because I knew the three main topics that Dr. Rose talks about in class are Fashion, Sports, and Entertainment. I have a creative mind for envisioning imagery in a picture. I am very pleased with how my drawing came to be, and want to thank the class for

voting for our title.

Ditmas Student ContributorsDitmas Student ContributorsClass 801Class 801

Aneesa AhmedAndy BravoTiffany BrissettDylan CaneteBrandon EddyAmbre HallJunior JeangillesGenesis OreaMichael PashayevKaalel RobinsonKimberly RochaZanaya RogersChristina SmallsIvan Vazquez

Class 802Class 802

Alexey AulovSumaira ButtVanessa CamposRicardo CondadoKevin DamierJohn DavalosRosalie GoldhagenMarvin HenriusCesar HernandezFaith IyahenSabina KahramonovaTimothy MartineauBrandon MartinezSabrina ShahidEduardo VazquezAssata Johnson-Wil-liamsDiamond Williams

Class 803Class 803

Kriselle AlvarezQamar AwaisClar BellegardeMauricio CoheteroAfik ComedieJoseph CuatlacuatlKayla DanversAnaya DeslandesKhym DupreMiguel GenaoAsanta HawthorneSahbreena JasminRicardo JonesRehman NaeemNeshat PatwaryLinda RamirezShiyanna RuizJennifer ShalmiyevJanet ShumshumovaEnmanuel SibrianJoshua SwabyVanessa VeraArielle ThomasJahsen WintJavier Zamudio

Ditmas Offi ce Team whose efforts support the Writing InstituteKathie CarrollMary ErricoJoey LeoneRosalie Pinto

The kernel idea for this book came from Mr. David Liotta, who suggested that we approach the varied topics of the 8th grade Social Studies curriculum through the engaging lens of three pop culture topics that would engage the students. These topics suggested by Mr. Liotta were: sports, entertainment, and fashion. The students were first asked to connect these topics to the mandated Social Studies Curricula and themes. Next they had to react to it as 21st Century students. Then to anticipate the audience for the digital book including those who have viewed the DNN Ditmas News Network , other responders to the students voices were invited to react in print. They included: a cohort of high school students from our Jewish special education partner school Ivdu, a high school junior from a Catholic parochial school who edits her schools newspaper, a college freshman from a Catholic college, and a teacher of English Language Arts completing her masters degree. In addition to their commentary as Kensington students, other distanced/parochial/public responders were added to the mix, so the students could immediately get feedback from older peers and adults. The selected peer age and older peers were reflective of different cultural and educational perspectives. The idea behind these other perspectives is that they started the ongoing discussion that the e-book edition of this book will prompt. As a Social Studies and a Literacy education teacher/researcher, I am excited by the ways in which technology, literacy, and the Liotta television news project supported and vivified Common Core Social Studies and English Language Arts Literacy. In addition, the on air broadcasting and on site Workshops at York College and the Brian Lander Expo, offered Liottas students who wrote this book the chance to voice their civic citizenship and Common Core SS/History and ELA skills immediately in 2012.

The Lighter Side of History enlightened, engaged and enrolled proactive citizens in middle school.

We look forward to your voices.

Dr. Rose Cherie ReissmanDr. Rose Cherie ReissmanFounder of the Writing InstituteFounder of the Writing Institute

IntroductionIntroduction

Table of ContentsTable of ContentsStudent ForewordStudent Foreword-Rosalie Goldhagen-Rosalie Goldhagen

High School Student Editor ForewordHigh School Student Editor Foreword - Elizabeth Valenzuela, - Elizabeth Valenzuela, Editor in Chief of the Cambrini Times Editor in Chief of the Cambrini Times

Chapter 1: Winning or Losing? Is just playing and competing enough?Chapter 1: Winning or Losing? Is just playing and competing enough?Marilyn David Ivdu High School Students Point of ViewMarilyn David Ivdu High School Students Point of ViewCommentary by Elizabeth Valenzuela, Editor-in-Chief of The Cabrini Courier, Commentary by Elizabeth Valenzuela, Editor-in-Chief of The Cabrini Courier, Mother Cabrini High SchoolMother Cabrini High School

Chapter 2: A Day at the Ballpark-From Joy to TragedyChapter 2: A Day at the Ballpark-From Joy to Tragedy

Chapter 3: New Start for Mother Chapter 3: New Start for Mother In March 2012, Denis Hamill paid a visit to the Ditmas News Network and Ditmas In March 2012, Denis Hamill paid a visit to the Ditmas News Network and Ditmas Bulldog Bite news reporters. The story he was working on inspired these writings. Bulldog Bite news reporters. The story he was working on inspired these writings. Commentary by Elizabeth Valenzuela, Editor-in-Chief of The Cabrini Courier, Commentary by Elizabeth Valenzuela, Editor-in-Chief of The Cabrini Courier, Mother Cabrini High SchoolMother Cabrini High School

Chapter 4: Bullying/ Sports: The Social Sports and Fashion ConnectionChapter 4: Bullying/ Sports: The Social Sports and Fashion ConnectionCommentary by Elizabeth Valenzuela, Editor-in-Chief of The Cabrini Courier, Commentary by Elizabeth Valenzuela, Editor-in-Chief of The Cabrini Courier, Mother Cabrini High SchoolMother Cabrini High School

Chapter 5: The Death of Whitney HoustonChapter 5: The Death of Whitney Houston

Chapter 6: Fashion, Sports, and EntertainmentChapter 6: Fashion, Sports, and EntertainmentCommentary by Chana R. Stein, Student Teacher at Ditmas I.S. 62Commentary by Chana R. Stein, Student Teacher at Ditmas I.S. 62Marilyn David Ivdu High School Students Point of ViewMarilyn David Ivdu High School Students Point of View

Chapter 7: Fatal Focus on FashionChapter 7: Fatal Focus on Fashion

Chapter 8: Book Reviews: The Hunger Games Chapter 8: Book Reviews: The Hunger Games Commentary by Elizabeth Valenzuela, Editor-in-Chief of The Cabrini Courier, Commentary by Elizabeth Valenzuela, Editor-in-Chief of The Cabrini Courier, Mother Cabrini High SchoolMother Cabrini High School

Chapter 9: Coaching as Sports in ActionChapter 9: Coaching as Sports in Action

Chapter 10: Life at D.N.N.Chapter 10: Life at D.N.N.

Table of Contents - Cont.Table of Contents - Cont.

Student ForewordStudent Foreword

AfterwordAfterword - Kimberly Drelich, Student Reporter at Columbia Journalism School - Kimberly Drelich, Student Reporter at Columbia Journalism School

Writing Standards for Literacy in History/Social StudiesWriting Standards for Literacy in History/Social Studies

Student Alignment of Liotta Method to Common Core by Faith IyahenStudent Alignment of Liotta Method to Common Core by Faith Iyahen

Student ForewordStudent ForewordRosalie Goldhagen Rosalie Goldhagen

Working with Dr. Rose is an amazing experience. Ive been working with her Working with Dr. Rose is an amazing experience. Ive been working with her for three years. Writing stories and being able to have them published is a really for three years. Writing stories and being able to have them published is a really extraordinary experience. My classmates and I are very lucky to be able to work extraordinary experience. My classmates and I are very lucky to be able to work with Dr. Rose and to meet with authors like Andrea Pinkney. I personally have with Dr. Rose and to meet with authors like Andrea Pinkney. I personally have developed a great relationship with Dr. Rose, and am very thankful to be able to developed a great relationship with Dr. Rose, and am very thankful to be able to publish my writing and see it as it is developed into a book. I love working with publish my writing and see it as it is developed into a book. I love working with Dr. Rose and her crew of student publishing team writers. I can see how mature my writing has become.me.me.

ForewordForewordHigh School Student Newspaper Editor ForewordHigh School Student Newspaper Editor Foreword

Elizabeth Valenzuela, Elizabeth Valenzuela, Editor-in-Chief of The Cabrini Courier, Mother Cabrini High SchoolEditor-in-Chief of The Cabrini Courier, Mother Cabrini High School

I greatly enjoyed meeting the students of 801, 802, and 803, and reading I greatly enjoyed meeting the students of 801, 802, and 803, and reading their writings on various topics related to fashion, sports, and entertainment. I their writings on various topics related to fashion, sports, and entertainment. I admire the way Dr. Rose introduces topics straight from the headlines of admire the way Dr. Rose introduces topics straight from the headlines of newspapers and media and makes students become aware of them and form newspapers and media and makes students become aware of them and form opinions about them. opinions about them. I found that the students writings were mature and creative. In their I found that the students writings were mature and creative. In their discussion of Winning or Losing they drew from their own experiences to form discussion of Winning or Losing they drew from their own experiences to form their opinions. Many students stood out to me when they responded to A Day their opinions. Many students stood out to me when they responded to A Day at the Ballpark. One of these was Neshat Patwary, who expressed a strong at the Ballpark. One of these was Neshat Patwary, who expressed a strong emotional response upon reading the article about Sharon Stone, who died while emotional response upon reading the article about Sharon Stone, who died while trying to catch a foul ball for his young son. I noticed that she thoroughly trying to catch a foul ball for his young son. I noticed that she thoroughly thought through her stance on whether foul balls should continue to be thrown thought through her stance on whether foul balls should continue to be thrown into the stands. Students showed compassion in their responses to New Start for into the stands. Students showed compassion in their responses to New Start for Mother and maturely handled tough topics like drug abuse, the price of fame, Mother and maturely handled tough topics like drug abuse, the price of fame, racism and death in The Death of Whitney Houston and Fatal Focus on racism and death in The Death of Whitney Houston and Fatal Focus on Fashion, which discussed the Trayvon Martin case. Fashion, which discussed the Trayvon Martin case. I also enjoyed reading the students poetic pieces. Khym Dupre wrote a I also enjoyed reading the students poetic pieces. Khym Dupre wrote a great poem about bullying in which she said: Less crime, less harassment/ Take great poem about bullying in which she said: Less crime, less harassment/ Take time to think it over/ Please no conflict/ But/ Gain a friendship between teams/ time to think it over/ Please no conflict/ But/ Gain a friendship between teams/ Less judgment, share the love. This poem stood out to me because in it, Khym Less judgment, share the love. This poem stood out to me because in it, Khym sincerely expressed her emotions and desire for unity among all people.sincerely expressed her emotions and desire for unity among all people. After reading the writings of the students of 801, 802, and 803, I am After reading the writings of the students of 801, 802, and 803, I am confident that many of them will continue to work in media and publications confident that many of them will continue to work in media and publications in high school and will succeed. Personally, I have greatly enjoyed being a staff in high school and will succeed. Personally, I have greatly enjoyed being a staff member and editor of my school newspaper, The Cabrini Courier. Through my member and editor of my school newspaper, The Cabrini Courier. Through my work with the newspaper, I have gained new skills, have formed great friendships, work with the newspaper, I have gained new skills, have formed great friendships, and have discovered an interest in journalism that I would have never become and have discovered an interest in journalism that I would have never become aware of if I had not joined the staff. I encourage students to participate in aware of if I had not joined the staff. I encourage students to participate in their schools media-related extracurricular activities because in doing so they will their schools media-related extracurricular activities because in doing so they will learn more about their schools, communities and selves.learn more about their schools, communities and selves.

Chapter 1:Chapter 1:Winning or Losing? Is just Winning or Losing? Is just

playing and competing playing and competing enough?enough?

Brandon MartinezBrandon MartinezWinning or losing is not all fun, no matter which result you get. If you win you are Winning or losing is not all fun, no matter which result you get. If you win you are happy and surprised, but if you lose it doesnt matter once you had fun. When happy and surprised, but if you lose it doesnt matter once you had fun. When you practice a lot, you are sure you are going to win. However, winning isnt you practice a lot, you are sure you are going to win. However, winning isnt everything unless you had fun. You dont feel like a winner when you know you everything unless you had fun. You dont feel like a winner when you know you didnt have fun or that you cheated to win.didnt have fun or that you cheated to win.

Response to Brandon Martinez - Ricardo Jones Response to Brandon Martinez - Ricardo Jones I agree with this piece of writing because it tells about winning and losing. I agree with this piece of writing because it tells about winning and losing. It shows that he knows what winning and losing are about. It shows that he knows what winning and losing are about.

Khym DupreKhym DupreI think that winning isnt everything. I say that because when you win something I think that winning isnt everything. I say that because when you win something you start to brag. When you brag, you become a sore winner. When you are a you start to brag. When you brag, you become a sore winner. When you are a sore winner you make people feel bad. I hate winning because I hate seeing sad sore winner you make people feel bad. I hate winning because I hate seeing sad faces on people. If the Giants do win, I will congratulate them. faces on people. If the Giants do win, I will congratulate them.

Response to Khym Dupre - Ambre Hall Response to Khym Dupre - Ambre Hall I feel (also) that winning isnt everything. I say this because people who I feel (also) that winning isnt everything. I say this because people who are used to winning become cocky and arrogant. Then, when the world turns are used to winning become cocky and arrogant. Then, when the world turns the wrong way its the end of the world. Thats why many people feel badly the wrong way its the end of the world. Thats why many people feel badly when they win. So I guess youre right. when they win. So I guess youre right.

Dylan CaneteDylan CaneteVictory and DefeatVictory and DefeatIn life, its winning or losing, even if its not against people. When the Patriots lost In life, its winning or losing, even if its not against people. When the Patriots lost this last Super Bowl, it was devastating for them, for their lives, for their futures, this last Super Bowl, it was devastating for them, for their lives, for their futures, and possibly their demise. It changes everything. Its tattooed in history. Dont and possibly their demise. It changes everything. Its tattooed in history. Dont listen to people when they say winning or losing isnt important. Winning and listen to people when they say winning or losing isnt important. Winning and losing takes place against nature, government, and between people. You can turn losing takes place against nature, government, and between people. You can turn the governments tables, you can actually win and hear those pens of change click the governments tables, you can actually win and hear those pens of change click as they furiously scribble words on paper. History cant repeat itselfunless youre as they furiously scribble words on paper. History cant repeat itselfunless youre there to do it.there to do it.

Response to Dylan Canete - Ricardo Jones Response to Dylan Canete - Ricardo Jones I agree with Dylan because he is right about what people say. I agree with Dylan because he is right about what people say.

Kimberly RochaKimberly RochaIn winning or losing it really depends on the occasion or event. If the occasion is a In winning or losing it really depends on the occasion or event. If the occasion is a war it is important to win, but if it is a little competition it isnt too important. war it is important to win, but if it is a little competition it isnt too important. If it is a national competition, it could be important. If you dont win it is okay If it is a national competition, it could be important. If you dont win it is okay because there will be more. I think that war is the only important competition because there will be more. I think that war is the only important competition to win. Any other competition really isnt important to me unless its for a good to win. Any other competition really isnt important to me unless its for a good cause. If I could do something in a competition with an opportunity to win prizes cause. If I could do something in a competition with an opportunity to win prizes or money to help causes, I would do it.or money to help causes, I would do it.

Cesar HernandezCesar HernandezWinning or losing really isnt that important, depending on the situation of the Winning or losing really isnt that important, depending on the situation of the competition. The importance depends on whether it is a one time war or an competition. The importance depends on whether it is a one time war or an event /option that can be repeated. If it can be repeated, then winning or losing event /option that can be repeated. If it can be repeated, then winning or losing is not that important. is not that important.

Response to Cesar Hernandez - Ricardo Jones Response to Cesar Hernandez - Ricardo Jones I disagree because you dont depend on the situation of the competition, I disagree because you dont depend on the situation of the competition, you work your hardest to win. Its okay if you lose, but its not okay if you you work your hardest to win. Its okay if you lose, but its not okay if you lose because you did not try. lose because you did not try.

Ricardo CondadoRicardo CondadoIn life, its not always winning. In some cases winning is everything. In competitions, In life, its not always winning. In some cases winning is everything. In competitions, winning is not always important. You put your best effort and at the end you winning is not always important. You put your best effort and at the end you find your results. Mostly, if you want to win so badly well in that case you get find your results. Mostly, if you want to win so badly well in that case you get too cocky and you start to get over carried with the prize. But in a war, winning too cocky and you start to get over carried with the prize. But in a war, winning is everything. War depends on life or death. If you lose a war you lose everything, is everything. War depends on life or death. If you lose a war you lose everything, your country and freedom. your country and freedom.

Zanaya RogersZanaya RogersWinning is precious to someWinning is precious to some

Winning is a precious thing to some.Winning is a precious thing to some.Just to have powerJust to have powerThe joy of saying I won.The joy of saying I won.

Rejoicing that triumphRejoicing that triumphThat victory at hand,That victory at hand,But then putting behind youBut then putting behind youFeelings of the other manFeelings of the other man

Just for once imagine Just for once imagine Think, letting your mind run freeThink, letting your mind run freeThink about othersThink about othersAnd how they must beAnd how they must be

Winning isnt everything,Winning isnt everything,You shouldnt expect it to come.You shouldnt expect it to come.It comes and goesIt comes and goesJust have fun.Just have fun.

Yet even though one wins,Yet even though one wins,Another loses.Another loses.Even though no ones touchedEven though no ones touchedHateful words are like bruises.Hateful words are like bruises.

Response to Zanaya Rogers - Response to Zanaya Rogers - Faith IyahenFaith Iyahen

Winning is everything.Winning is everything.When you have been rejectedWhen you have been rejectedNeglected--Neglected--

Look at this from my perspective.Look at this from my perspective.Ive been shot down Ive been shot down Thrown to the ground.Thrown to the ground.Everyone I know has turned around.Everyone I know has turned around.

Winning is everythingWinning is everythingSo I will win then I will sing-So I will win then I will sing-This is not just anything..This is not just anything..

Winning is everything.Winning is everything.To my chance I cling, cling, cling.To my chance I cling, cling, cling.Winning is everything.Winning is everything.

Jahsen WintJahsen Wint Winning is good or isnt it? I believe that winning is good for many reasons, Winning is good or isnt it? I believe that winning is good for many reasons, such as you feel good about yourself . If you win, you have the motivation to such as you feel good about yourself . If you win, you have the motivation to continue in what youre doing.continue in what youre doing. Im a football player who knows what it feels like to win and lose. I can tell Im a football player who knows what it feels like to win and lose. I can tell you that winning feels a whole lot better. If you win all the time and then lose you that winning feels a whole lot better. If you win all the time and then lose one time then you have to feel bad. You must know how it feels to lose in order one time then you have to feel bad. You must know how it feels to lose in order to win. Yes, winning is everything. Dont play a game that you dont want to to win. Yes, winning is everything. Dont play a game that you dont want to play to win. I, as a player, have played football ever since I was eight waiting to play to win. I, as a player, have played football ever since I was eight waiting to be number one in the nation and I just lose. I thought that the youth football be number one in the nation and I just lose. I thought that the youth football league would prepare me for high school. Thats why I played for the Brooklyn league would prepare me for high school. Thats why I played for the Brooklyn Renegades. Now its time for high school. In high school, the players are better Renegades. Now its time for high school. In high school, the players are better than you. than you.

Response to Jahsen Wint - Michael PashayevResponse to Jahsen Wint - Michael Pashayev - You should expand more on how it feels like to lose; like what you feel - You should expand more on how it feels like to lose; like what you feel - Tell why you want to be number one in the nation - Tell why you want to be number one in the nation - Good story - Good story - Why do you want to go to high school and compete against other - Why do you want to go to high school and compete against other players whom you feel are better than you? players whom you feel are better than you?

Shiyanna RuizShiyanna RuizTo me, winning and losing is the same. If I win, Im happy. If I lose in my heart and To me, winning and losing is the same. If I win, Im happy. If I lose in my heart and mind I still know that I tried my best. I am still a winner. I dont like the fact that mind I still know that I tried my best. I am still a winner. I dont like the fact that people judge you based on the fact if youre a loser or winner!people judge you based on the fact if youre a loser or winner!

Vanessa VeraVanessa VeraIf I got into the finals and didnt win, I would be upset because I worked very hard If I got into the finals and didnt win, I would be upset because I worked very hard to win and practiced every day. If they didnt like my art work I would never draw to win and practiced every day. If they didnt like my art work I would never draw again.again.

Response to Vanessa Vera - Ricardo JonesResponse to Vanessa Vera - Ricardo Jones I think that practice makes perfect. Therefore it is most likely that you can I think that practice makes perfect. Therefore it is most likely that you can expect to win. expect to win.

Sahbreena JasminSahbreena JasminIf I were in a competition and I lost, I would be pretty devastated. But one thing If I were in a competition and I lost, I would be pretty devastated. But one thing Id do the next time is try harder and have good sportsmanship. So, the next Id do the next time is try harder and have good sportsmanship. So, the next time Im in a competition Ill probably win. One thing I have to always remember is time Im in a competition Ill probably win. One thing I have to always remember is to be fair.to be fair.

Response to Sahbreena Jasmin - Ricardo Jones Response to Sahbreena Jasmin - Ricardo Jones I would be pretty devastated also because I came to win, not lose.I would be pretty devastated also because I came to win, not lose.

Kayla DanversKayla DanversMy point of view about winning or losing is that at some point I will feel terrible My point of view about winning or losing is that at some point I will feel terrible about it and sad. However, at some point Ill get over it. Its better to lose and about it and sad. However, at some point Ill get over it. Its better to lose and try than not try at all. If you do try again, youll know what to do better. Its so try than not try at all. If you do try again, youll know what to do better. Its so much better to have experience to try than not to. For example, I go to step for much better to have experience to try than not to. For example, I go to step for fun. We have competitions with other step teams. Sometimes you lose, but loving fun. We have competitions with other step teams. Sometimes you lose, but loving the thing you love to do is what matters the most.the thing you love to do is what matters the most.

Response to Kayla Danvers - Ricardo JonesResponse to Kayla Danvers - Ricardo JonesYes, you have to keep trying and trying to succeed.Yes, you have to keep trying and trying to succeed.

Arielle ThomasArielle ThomasFrom my point of view, if I competed in a competition and I came in 2nd or 3rd From my point of view, if I competed in a competition and I came in 2nd or 3rd place I would feel upset. I hate it when I dont win and people are better than I place I would feel upset. I hate it when I dont win and people are better than I am at something. I would also be proud of myself that I actually had the guts am at something. I would also be proud of myself that I actually had the guts to even enter a competition. Although I didnt win, at least I still gave it my best to even enter a competition. Although I didnt win, at least I still gave it my best shot.shot.

Neshat PatwaryNeshat PatwaryI love drawing and dancing. But sometimes when it comes up as a competition I love drawing and dancing. But sometimes when it comes up as a competition some people win, some people lose. Those who lose feel badly. They also give up. some people win, some people lose. Those who lose feel badly. They also give up. But I think that if I were to lose in any competition I wouldnt give up. At least I But I think that if I were to lose in any competition I wouldnt give up. At least I have a talent that I could show but maybe its not the way people want. When it have a talent that I could show but maybe its not the way people want. When it comes to drawing well I am not that great an artist but I still try and try to be a comes to drawing well I am not that great an artist but I still try and try to be a professional artist. In competitions, peoples goals are to win and if I won I would professional artist. In competitions, peoples goals are to win and if I won I would feel happy. Winning is also everything and not everything. It is my opinion that feel happy. Winning is also everything and not everything. It is my opinion that if I were to lose, I wouldnt give up because I have my own talent.if I were to lose, I wouldnt give up because I have my own talent.

Qamar AwaisQamar AwaisWhen my team lost, I was so angry I didnt want to play basketball again. But I When my team lost, I was so angry I didnt want to play basketball again. But I got over that loss. I kept playing/ practicing. To me, winning is everything. Whats got over that loss. I kept playing/ practicing. To me, winning is everything. Whats the point of practicing and trying so hard if you think winning is not everything?the point of practicing and trying so hard if you think winning is not everything?

Ricardo CondadoRicardo CondadoIt doesnt matter if you win or loseIt doesnt matter if you win or loseOnce you put your heart in the game you should feel good.Once you put your heart in the game you should feel good.

Rehman NaeemRehman NaeemI believe winning is a good achievement because if I started already whats the I believe winning is a good achievement because if I started already whats the point of leaving? If youve done so much, why should you back out?point of leaving? If youve done so much, why should you back out?

Miguel Genao Miguel Genao Winning is everything. Losing makes you feel disappointed and like youre terrible. Winning is everything. Losing makes you feel disappointed and like youre terrible. No matter what anyone says, dont give up. Then, youre just going to show the No matter what anyone says, dont give up. Then, youre just going to show the person who you lost to that youre a loser.person who you lost to that youre a loser.

Janet ShumshumovaJanet Shumshumova Winning to some people is not everything, but for some people winning is Winning to some people is not everything, but for some people winning is their life. My point of view of winning is in between these two extremes. Some their life. My point of view of winning is in between these two extremes. Some things that I really care about then winning is everything. For example, if I race things that I really care about then winning is everything. For example, if I race my friends, I would want to win. I would want to be the best one.my friends, I would want to win. I would want to be the best one. Everywhere is a competition- for everyone; like getting a job, playing in Everywhere is a competition- for everyone; like getting a job, playing in sports or getting a higher grade than somebody else in school. You should never sports or getting a higher grade than somebody else in school. You should never give up just, keep trying at what you do the best.give up just, keep trying at what you do the best.

Asanta HawthorneAsanta HawthorneTo me winning isnt everything because at the end of the day all that matters is To me winning isnt everything because at the end of the day all that matters is that you went out there and had fun. Life isnt all about winning. Growing up, I that you went out there and had fun. Life isnt all about winning. Growing up, I didnt really win a lot but it didnt matter to me because at the end of the day didnt really win a lot but it didnt matter to me because at the end of the day I was still Asanta. I still loved track. It made me happy I didnt join because I love I was still Asanta. I still loved track. It made me happy I didnt join because I love to win. I joined because I wanted to meet new people and have fun.to win. I joined because I wanted to meet new people and have fun.

Linda RamirezLinda RamirezI would feel upset and angry if I lost in a dance competition. But I will not give I would feel upset and angry if I lost in a dance competition. But I will not give up on trying my best by practicing. I will not get down just because I lost at the up on trying my best by practicing. I will not get down just because I lost at the final . Ill enjoy it and try my best. I always believe in myself.final . Ill enjoy it and try my best. I always believe in myself.

Enmanuel SibrianEnmanuel Sibrian I think winning is everything because you train so hard just to lose. If you win, I think winning is everything because you train so hard just to lose. If you win, training was actually worth it. Doing exercises will not be for nothing. What training was actually worth it. Doing exercises will not be for nothing. What youre training for is to win. Why would you train and put your sweat and tears in youre training for is to win. Why would you train and put your sweat and tears in the training, just to lose?the training, just to lose?

FunFunOne shotOne shotOne opportunityOne opportunityTeam workTeam workBad lossesBad lossesAnticipationAnticipationLosersLosersLegacyLegacy

Kriselle AlvarezKriselle Alvarez My point of view about winning is If you win or you lose, its not the end My point of view about winning is If you win or you lose, its not the end of the world. But if I were to win a competition, I would be very happy. I will of the world. But if I were to win a competition, I would be very happy. I will not let another team bring me down. I will never give up.not let another team bring me down. I will never give up.

Anaya DeslandesAnaya DeslandesHead Up or Down?Head Up or Down? One thing that I really enjoy doing is dancing. I dance because its a way One thing that I really enjoy doing is dancing. I dance because its a way that I really enjoy myself. I can relax and be me. If I were to be in a that I really enjoy myself. I can relax and be me. If I were to be in a competition in dance to win first place and I didnt reach my final destination, I competition in dance to win first place and I didnt reach my final destination, I would be really disappointed an upset. I wouldnt consider myself a sore loser. I would be really disappointed an upset. I wouldnt consider myself a sore loser. I would just enjoy it and learn from what I did. You have to know what it feels like would just enjoy it and learn from what I did. You have to know what it feels like to be down, that way you would learn how to not let anything or anyone bring to be down, that way you would learn how to not let anything or anyone bring you down. Its a well known lesson. We have to keep going if you want it. Dont you down. Its a well known lesson. We have to keep going if you want it. Dont let all that trying and practice go to waste. let all that trying and practice go to waste.

Christina SmallsChristina Smalls My perspective of winning counts in different situations. When I try out for a My perspective of winning counts in different situations. When I try out for a contest or competition I usually only do it for the purpose of fun. If I only did contest or competition I usually only do it for the purpose of fun. If I only did it for winning, it would get boring , basically un-fun. As for the Giants winning it for winning, it would get boring , basically un-fun. As for the Giants winning the Super Bowl, I think that winning did count, because they worked very hard for the Super Bowl, I think that winning did count, because they worked very hard for that experience.that experience.

High School Voices High School Voices Marilyn David Ivdu School Students React:Marilyn David Ivdu School Students React:Shlomo Youssoupov, Marilyn David Ivdu School Shlomo Youssoupov, Marilyn David Ivdu School Winning is not everything because if you would win everything, then you Winning is not everything because if you would win everything, then you wouldnt gain so much from the game. Sometimes its better to lose the game, wouldnt gain so much from the game. Sometimes its better to lose the game, and and actually enjoy playing. Winning can make you feel proud, but losing can be a actually enjoy playing. Winning can make you feel proud, but losing can be a good opportunity to improve your skills. The main point is to enjoy the game or good opportunity to improve your skills. The main point is to enjoy the game or competition, and gain experience and respect, no matter if you win or lose.competition, and gain experience and respect, no matter if you win or lose.

Abie Ohayon, Marilyn David Ivdu SchoolAbie Ohayon, Marilyn David Ivdu School I dont think its all about winning. Its all about energy, strength and cour- I dont think its all about winning. Its all about energy, strength and cour-age. Winning is not everything in life. If the other team might lose their age. Winning is not everything in life. If the other team might lose their confidence/ self-esteem, the team that loses might feel badly because they confidence/ self-esteem, the team that loses might feel badly because they probably worked very hard and put in effort. We always have to encourage our probably worked very hard and put in effort. We always have to encourage our friends that were all winners. Were all in this together.friends that were all winners. Were all in this together.

Commentary - Winning or LosingCommentary - Winning or LosingElizabeth Valenzuela, Editor-in-Chief of The Cabrini Courier Elizabeth Valenzuela, Editor-in-Chief of The Cabrini Courier The importance of winning depends on the situation. Winners in a sports The importance of winning depends on the situation. Winners in a sports game or spelling bee should feel proud of themselves for winning, but should never game or spelling bee should feel proud of themselves for winning, but should never brag to their friends about it. Those who do not win should feel pride in their brag to their friends about it. Those who do not win should feel pride in their participation and look forward to the next time they can participate. In other participation and look forward to the next time they can participate. In other situations, victory is monumental. This idea is depicted in The Hunger Games by situations, victory is monumental. This idea is depicted in The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. In this novel, the protagonist Katniss Everdeen must fight to the Suzanne Collins. In this novel, the protagonist Katniss Everdeen must fight to the death in a sport called the Hunger Games. In this case, her life depends on her death in a sport called the Hunger Games. In this case, her life depends on her victory. Thus, the value of a loss or win can be determined by the situation. victory. Thus, the value of a loss or win can be determined by the situation.

Chapter 2:Chapter 2:A day at the ballpark - A day at the ballpark -

From joy to tragedyFrom joy to tragedy

Shiyanna RuizShiyanna Ruiz I think that Cooper should still go to baseball games because the only I think that Cooper should still go to baseball games because the only reason his dad (Shannon) took him was because he wanted to continue the reason his dad (Shannon) took him was because he wanted to continue the tradition that his dad started when he was young. Cooper may have bad tradition that his dad started when he was young. Cooper may have bad memories at the stadium, but hell always have his dad in his heart. Ive been memories at the stadium, but hell always have his dad in his heart. Ive been through my mom dying and I am starting to get that you will always have through my mom dying and I am starting to get that you will always have memories, but youll learn how to handle it only when you get older. The memories, but youll learn how to handle it only when you get older. The memories wont overtake your life.memories wont overtake your life.

Khym DupreKhym Dupre When I was first read this story, I thought it was really sad because having When I was first read this story, I thought it was really sad because having a young kid watch you die is really sad. Their young minds dont know if youre a young kid watch you die is really sad. Their young minds dont know if youre breathing or not. All they know is that you caught a foul ball for them from breathing or not. All they know is that you caught a foul ball for them from their favorite sports player. To fall 20 feet is like jumping off a bridge. their favorite sports player. To fall 20 feet is like jumping off a bridge. When I was young about five or six years old, my dad was in an accident When I was young about five or six years old, my dad was in an accident somewhat like this. It was my older brother, my best friend and me. It was her somewhat like this. It was my older brother, my best friend and me. It was her birthday. She was turning six. It was a fun day. We had ice cream, cake, candy birthday. She was turning six. It was a fun day. We had ice cream, cake, candy and soda. We were playing pin-the-tail-on-the-donkey, hide-and-go-seek, and and soda. We were playing pin-the-tail-on-the-donkey, hide-and-go-seek, and breaking open the piata. What a fun, glorious day. breaking open the piata. What a fun, glorious day. My opinion for letting players throw foul balls into the stands is neutral. I My opinion for letting players throw foul balls into the stands is neutral. I say, let them keep doing because it puts a smile on a kids face when they get say, let them keep doing because it puts a smile on a kids face when they get a ball from their favorite player. Many ball-related accidents happened. Some a ball from their favorite player. Many ball-related accidents happened. Some people survive and some do not.people survive and some do not.

Neshat PatwaryNeshat Patwary This story made me emotional. There was a reaction to it. I felt so sad This story made me emotional. There was a reaction to it. I felt so sad because Shannon Stone, who was trying to catch a baseball for his 6-year old because Shannon Stone, who was trying to catch a baseball for his 6-year old son, Cooper. I feel so badly because he died catching the baseball for his son, son, Cooper. I feel so badly because he died catching the baseball for his son, Cooper. It was very dangerous because he fell from 20 feet. The part that I Cooper. It was very dangerous because he fell from 20 feet. The part that I loved most was he was trying to catch the ball for his son. When I had read this loved most was he was trying to catch the ball for his son. When I had read this story, I remembered my grandma who used to take me to her garden which was story, I remembered my grandma who used to take me to her garden which was beautiful and I always wanted to go there. After she died, I didnt feel like going beautiful and I always wanted to go there. After she died, I didnt feel like going to garden. It makes me think of her.to garden. It makes me think of her. This story made me remember about my grandma, whom I miss a lot. This story made me remember about my grandma, whom I miss a lot. Every time I go to visit her, she always used to take me to her garden, which was Every time I go to visit her, she always used to take me to her garden, which was so beautiful. She knew that I loved her garden and whenever I was so sad that so beautiful. She knew that I loved her garden and whenever I was so sad that place made me happy and it was special for me. But since she died, I dont feel place made me happy and it was special for me. But since she died, I dont feel like going to the garden because when I go there it makes me remember her when like going to the garden because when I go there it makes me remember her when she used to take me there. she used to take me there.

Asanta HawthorneAsanta Hawthorne When reading A Day at the Ballpark, my heart filled with sorrow. It was so When reading A Day at the Ballpark, my heart filled with sorrow. It was so sad that this boys father only wanted to catch a ball for his son. It means every-sad that this boys father only wanted to catch a ball for his son. It means every-thing that your dad would die to catch a ball for you. I feel as if he was trying thing that your dad would die to catch a ball for you. I feel as if he was trying to give his son the best day at the ball park.to give his son the best day at the ball park. A memory of a good time with my family is on vacation with my family. I A memory of a good time with my family is on vacation with my family. I feel every moment youre with friends or family you have to make the most of feel every moment youre with friends or family you have to make the most of just that one moment because you only live once.just that one moment because you only live once. I personally think that they should STOP throwing foul balls into the stands I personally think that they should STOP throwing foul balls into the stands because people are getting hurt. Its traumatizing seeing someone you love die because people are getting hurt. Its traumatizing seeing someone you love die because theyre trying to catch a ball.because theyre trying to catch a ball.

Anaya Deslandes Anaya Deslandes During Social Studies, Dr. Rose read a story to our class. The title of the During Social Studies, Dr. Rose read a story to our class. The title of the story was A Day at the Ballpark. The story is about a man named Shannon story was A Day at the Ballpark. The story is about a man named Shannon Stone, taking his son to baseball game and passing away trying to catch a ball Stone, taking his son to baseball game and passing away trying to catch a ball for his son. He was only 39 years old. This was a true story. I know that I didnt for his son. He was only 39 years old. This was a true story. I know that I didnt do anything however I felt extremely bad just reading that story. A child do anything however I felt extremely bad just reading that story. A child witnessed his father dying right in front of his face.witnessed his father dying right in front of his face. I have many good memories with my family like parties, hangouts, and I have many good memories with my family like parties, hangouts, and movies. I love spending time with my family. Its such a good time. There was this movies. I love spending time with my family. Its such a good time. There was this one time my family and I joined our hands during Carnival time. It was so much one time my family and I joined our hands during Carnival time. It was so much fun. We danced and partied together. Spending time with the family is always a fun. We danced and partied together. Spending time with the family is always a good time.good time. My opinion is that maybe the fans shouldnt be able to catch foul balls My opinion is that maybe the fans shouldnt be able to catch foul balls because of this accident. For example, the guy that passed away. Lets not wait because of this accident. For example, the guy that passed away. Lets not wait for things to get worse.for things to get worse.

Mauricio CoheteroMauricio Cohetero It was awful that the dad died but what was more painful was his own son It was awful that the dad died but what was more painful was his own son saw his father die getting the foul ball for him. I think his son is going to remem-saw his father die getting the foul ball for him. I think his son is going to remem-ber that awful moment, but he is going to keep on going to baseball games ber that awful moment, but he is going to keep on going to baseball games because one its a tradition and second to remember his father.because one its a tradition and second to remember his father. The best memory I had was when I wanted to go play soccer in Queens with The best memory I had was when I wanted to go play soccer in Queens with my mom. It was the best time because I actually spent the whole day with my my mom. It was the best time because I actually spent the whole day with my mom. I played my favorite sport and most importantly my mom was there to mom. I played my favorite sport and most importantly my mom was there to see me and cheer for me. see me and cheer for me. My opinion is that people should keep on trying to get the foul balls My opinion is that people should keep on trying to get the foul balls because it makes baseball fun for the people and not boring. because it makes baseball fun for the people and not boring.

Janet ShumshumovaJanet Shumshumova When Shannon Stone died trying to catch a baseball for his 6-year old son, When Shannon Stone died trying to catch a baseball for his 6-year old son, Cooper, I think it was devastating for Cooper to watch his father die. It was really Cooper, I think it was devastating for Cooper to watch his father die. It was really sad, Shannon was only 36 years old, and thats young. Shannon was also working sad, Shannon was only 36 years old, and thats young. Shannon was also working as a firefighter. If I were Cooper, I wouldnt know what to do about the future. as a firefighter. If I were Cooper, I wouldnt know what to do about the future. It would be so hard to lose a father trying to catch a baseball for you and try-It would be so hard to lose a father trying to catch a baseball for you and try-ing to keep a tradition that Shannon had when he was younger.ing to keep a tradition that Shannon had when he was younger. I remember when my brothers and I went bowling together. They also took I remember when my brothers and I went bowling together. They also took me ice-skating once. I love them. I would never want to lose them. It may be me ice-skating once. I love them. I would never want to lose them. It may be really hard for Cooper Stone but when he grows up I think he would understand really hard for Cooper Stone but when he grows up I think he would understand everything his father went through. everything his father went through. My opinion about players throwing foul balls into the stands for the fans to My opinion about players throwing foul balls into the stands for the fans to catch parallels the quote contributed by Shannons mother. She said, Thats why catch parallels the quote contributed by Shannons mother. She said, Thats why daddies bring their little boys to the ballgame is for memories like that, please daddies bring their little boys to the ballgame is for memories like that, please dont stop. I agree that overall in the majority of cases, the balls caught will dont stop. I agree that overall in the majority of cases, the balls caught will generate positive memories for the fans.generate positive memories for the fans.

Jahsen WintJahsen Wint The freak accident was a true story that hurt me mentally and The freak accident was a true story that hurt me mentally and emotionally. A day that was supposed to be exciting and fun turned out to be emotionally. A day that was supposed to be exciting and fun turned out to be a day that was very hurtful and tragic. It will always be remembered by Shannons a day that was very hurtful and tragic. It will always be remembered by Shannons son. Shannons son was only 6 years old when he saw his father die reaching over a son. Shannons son was only 6 years old when he saw his father die reaching over a chair to catch a foul ball for him.chair to catch a foul ball for him. I remember when I went to a football game with my aunt. It was exciting I remember when I went to a football game with my aunt. It was exciting at the time for me because it was my first football game Id ever gone to. There at the time for me because it was my first football game Id ever gone to. There were people everywhere. That same day my aunt and I were trying to catch a were people everywhere. That same day my aunt and I were trying to catch a football. It was a crazy thing to do or it was something that wouldnt happen football. It was a crazy thing to do or it was something that wouldnt happen but we tried any way. The end of the game came. We didnt catch anything, but we tried any way. The end of the game came. We didnt catch anything, but I didnt care because I still had fun with my aunt.but I didnt care because I still had fun with my aunt. I believe that rule forbidding fans from catching foul balls should be I believe that rule forbidding fans from catching foul balls should be established. First off, somebody can get hit with the ball and get hurt badly. established. First off, somebody can get hit with the ball and get hurt badly. Second is that the same thing that happened to Shannon can happen again.Second is that the same thing that happened to Shannon can happen again.

Rehman NaeemRehman NaeemWhen I read this story it had me horrified. He died in front of his son! I When I read this story it had me horrified. He died in front of his son! I

believe its sad if your dad dies over a ball. It was shocking, falling from 20 feet. believe its sad if your dad dies over a ball. It was shocking, falling from 20 feet. But may he rest in peace.But may he rest in peace. My family had a wonderful time on my birthday. We all got together and My family had a wonderful time on my birthday. We all got together and sat, talked, and called over our cousins. It was fun. Hopefully I have another sat, talked, and called over our cousins. It was fun. Hopefully I have another birthday like this. birthday like this.

Rosalie GoldhagenRosalie Goldhagen There Must Be A Law There Must Be A Law A man brought his son to a baseball game to have fun and enjoy quality A man brought his son to a baseball game to have fun and enjoy quality time with his father. Ironically, the father, Shannon Stone had tragically lost his time with his father. Ironically, the father, Shannon Stone had tragically lost his life trying to get a foul ball. How could that have happened?life trying to get a foul ball. How could that have happened? Stone reached over the railing and ended up flying out of the stands and Stone reached over the railing and ended up flying out of the stands and falling 20 feet. Besides Stones tragic accident, think about the poor son, Cooper falling 20 feet. Besides Stones tragic accident, think about the poor son, Cooper as he witnessed his fathers death. Stone was a young man, 39, who was a as he witnessed his fathers death. Stone was a young man, 39, who was a firefighter. Stones death is terrible and theres only one way to stop this from firefighter. Stones death is terrible and theres only one way to stop this from happening. Its time to create a law stopping people from harming themselves happening. Its time to create a law stopping people from harming themselves and from harming the feelings of your loved ones. As much as fans love to get a and from harming the feelings of your loved ones. As much as fans love to get a foul ball to have as souvenirs, this practice needs to be halted.foul ball to have as souvenirs, this practice needs to be halted.

Jennifer ShalmiyevJennifer ShalmiyevWhat do the words freak accident mean to you? Well, to little 6 year-old What do the words freak accident mean to you? Well, to little 6 year-old

Cooper those words described the possibly worst day of his life. This has actually Cooper those words described the possibly worst day of his life. This has actually taught me that I should keep my family close. Accidents do happen and they taught me that I should keep my family close. Accidents do happen and they can result in death. Losing someone in your family can seriously damage people can result in death. Losing someone in your family can seriously damage people and might change them for the worse. and might change them for the worse. Actually, in the beginning of the story, I remembered back to one of my Actually, in the beginning of the story, I remembered back to one of my own family trips. I looked up to the sun and it reminded me of the Pennsylvania own family trips. I looked up to the sun and it reminded me of the Pennsylvania sky. Almost every year we got there for vacation. I always want my mother to sky. Almost every year we got there for vacation. I always want my mother to sit in the middle section of the car. I dont want to lose her. Every summer at the sit in the middle section of the car. I dont want to lose her. Every summer at the pool I stay with my mom. She gets scared very easily so she always finds the best pool I stay with my mom. She gets scared very easily so she always finds the best way to keep us safe. My sisters have pretty much raised me. My father is very way to keep us safe. My sisters have pretty much raised me. My father is very strict with everything. You can say hes over-protective.strict with everything. You can say hes over-protective. Many things ran through my head as the story was read. You see having Many things ran through my head as the story was read. You see having to keep a foul ball from an actual baseball game. This actually brought tears. to keep a foul ball from an actual baseball game. This actually brought tears. I think that it should be allowed to still throw balls in the stands. However, the I think that it should be allowed to still throw balls in the stands. However, the safety issues have to be raised.safety issues have to be raised.

Javier ZamudioJavier Zamudio It was tragic for this man to die like this. It was tragic for this man because It was tragic for this man to die like this. It was tragic for this man because he died with his son seeing him fall to his death. When I read this story I felt so he died with his son seeing him fall to his death. When I read this story I felt so sad because his dad died and his son was going to have no father for the rest of sad because his dad died and his son was going to have no father for the rest of his life. I also wonder if his son will go to games like his dad used to do.his life. I also wonder if his son will go to games like his dad used to do. I went to Mexico with my family and had a good time. I had a good time I went to Mexico with my family and had a good time. I had a good time because we had fun and we played soccer, fed cows, watched movies, lit fireworks because we had fun and we played soccer, fed cows, watched movies, lit fireworks and watered the plants.and watered the plants.

Joshua SwabyJoshua Swaby My reaction to this story was disappointing and shocking to have a father My reaction to this story was disappointing and shocking to have a father named Shannon Stone, a 39 year-old firefighter, try to catch a foul ball and wind named Shannon Stone, a 39 year-old firefighter, try to catch a foul ball and wind up dying in front of his son. This is very tragic and sorrowful story.up dying in front of his son. This is very tragic and sorrowful story. I had many memories in the past with my family. One memory Ive I had many memories in the past with my family. One memory Ive remembered is being with my sister walking around in Rhode Island as we laughed remembered is being with my sister walking around in Rhode Island as we laughed together at night. Though she had trouble with mom and moved to the Bronx together at night. Though she had trouble with mom and moved to the Bronx we were very close. She took care of me a lot and being without her made me we were very close. She took care of me a lot and being without her made me very glum. I was disappointed to lose her and to that I always call her to see if very glum. I was disappointed to lose her and to that I always call her to see if she was okay. she was okay. My opinion on catching a foul ball into the stand is they should still My opinion on catching a foul ball into the stand is they should still continue it because death is constant every day. Its the family baseball continue it because death is constant every day. Its the family baseball tradition. It is what it is. A fan will always remember his first foul ball catch!tradition. It is what it is. A fan will always remember his first foul ball catch!

Qamar AwaisQamar Awais Im really sad for Shannon Stone. He died trying to catch a baseball for his Im really sad for Shannon Stone. He died trying to catch a baseball for his son. Its really sad how his six year old son saw him die. He was a firefighter, 39 son. Its really sad how his six year old son saw him die. He was a firefighter, 39 years old. He fell 20 feet.years old. He fell 20 feet.

Joseph CuatlacuatlJoseph CuatlacuatlWhen I heard the story about Shannon Stones death I felt sorry and terrible. When I heard the story about Shannon Stones death I felt sorry and terrible.

Shannon died trying to catch a baseball for his 6 year old son. He fell down 20 Shannon died trying to catch a baseball for his 6 year old son. He fell down 20 feet. Shannons son Cooper watched as his dad fell down.feet. Shannons son Cooper watched as his dad fell down. This story reminds me of the time I went to Six Flags with my brother and This story reminds me of the time I went to Six Flags with my brother and our uncles and aunts. our uncles and aunts.

Chapter 3:New start for

Mother

In March 2012, Denis Hamill paid a visit to the Ditmas News Network and Ditmas In March 2012, Denis Hamill paid a visit to the Ditmas News Network and Ditmas Bulldog Bite news reporters. The story he was working on inspired these writings. It Bulldog Bite news reporters. The story he was working on inspired these writings. It dealt with a woman who shoplifted yeast to bake a loaf of bread for her family, dealt with a woman who shoplifted yeast to bake a loaf of bread for her family, since she couldnt afford to buy the yeast.since she couldnt afford to buy the yeast.

Kriselle AlvarezKriselle Alvarez I believe that the woman with six kids should be excused because she didnt I believe that the woman with six kids should be excused because she didnt steal for the fun of it. She had no food stamps for her six children, I believe she steal for the fun of it. She had no food stamps for her six children, I believe she should not be charged. They should let her off for this time.should not be charged. They should let her off for this time.

Eduardo VazquezEduardo Vazquez I dont think she will go to jail. One main reason is she had a family to feed I dont think she will go to jail. One main reason is she had a family to feed and care for. I know she shouldnt have stolen but the motive was something and care for. I know she shouldnt have stolen but the motive was something important. She needed to feed her family, rather than having them suffer from important. She needed to feed her family, rather than having them suffer from hunger. hunger.

Assata Johnson-WilliamsAssata Johnson-Williams I think the lady should keep the record. I say that because she still stole. I think the lady should keep the record. I say that because she still stole. Just because she didnt have the money, doesnt mean she had to steal. She Just because she didnt have the money, doesnt mean she had to steal. She could have asked for time to pay on an account. Same goes for the lady who could have asked for time to pay on an account. Same goes for the lady who stole the makeup. She should be finger-printed and put into the system. At stole the makeup. She should be finger-printed and put into the system. At least Margaret Deming had a reason. This particular lady did that because she least Margaret Deming had a reason. This particular lady did that because she wanted to, not because she had to.wanted to, not because she had to.

Alexey AulovAlexey Aulov Margaret Deming was arrested for shoplifting, to feed her family because Margaret Deming was arrested for shoplifting, to feed her family because she couldnt afford a loaf of bread. I think that they should take off the she couldnt afford a loaf of bread. I think that they should take off the criminal charges that were pressed against her. At least she did it for a good criminal charges that were pressed against her. At least she did it for a good reason, its not like she did it for fun. Imagine if you were in her situation. I reason, its not like she did it for fun. Imagine if you were in her situation. I wouldnt last a day. I hope that some people can help her by giving her the wouldnt last a day. I hope that some people can help her by giving her the assistance that she needs.assistance that she needs.

Timothy MartineauTimothy Martineau I think that in her situation she had a right to steal those items. Being a I think that in her situation she had a right to steal those items. Being a mother it must have been hurtful for her to just sit there when her children were mother it must have been hurtful for her to just sit there when her children were crying out in hunger. crying out in hunger.

Vanessa CamposVanessa Campos I dont think she should go to jail because she stole yeast to bake a loaf of I dont think she should go to jail because she stole yeast to bake a loaf of bread. Everyone has to eat. She took the loaf of bread to feed her family. Its bread. Everyone has to eat. She took the loaf of bread to feed her family. Its unfair that she has to go to jail just for feeding her family. Everyone has to eat. unfair that she has to go to jail just for feeding her family. Everyone has to eat. Just because shes poor doesnt give anyone the right to take her to jail. She has Just because shes poor doesnt give anyone the right to take her to jail. She has a family to feed. In the end analysis, shes not the first or last person to steal.a family to feed. In the end analysis, shes not the first or last person to steal.

Qamar AwaisQamar Awais I think the case should be dismissed. She had no food stamps and she I think the case should be dismissed. She had no food stamps and she couldnt get them. She is poor. She has six kids, but not enough money to feed couldnt get them. She is poor. She has six kids, but not enough money to feed them. I also think the judge might feel sorry for her.them. I also think the judge might feel sorry for her.

Commentary - New Start for MotherCommentary - New Start for MotherElizabeth Valenzuela, Editor-in-Chief of The Cabrini Courier Elizabeth Valenzuela, Editor-in-Chief of The Cabrini Courier I believe that the state should drop its charges against Margaret Deming, I believe that the state should drop its charges against Margaret Deming, the mother of six who stole bread and yeast to feed her children. She does not the mother of six who stole bread and yeast to feed her children. She does not deserve to suffer for this minor offense since she did it for the well-being of her deserve to suffer for this minor offense since she did it for the well-being of her children. Furthermore, if the state presses charges against Deming, her children. Furthermore, if the state presses charges against Deming, her opportunities for attaining a good job will be diminished because she will have a opportunities for attaining a good job will be diminished because she will have a record. record.

Chapter 4:

Bullying / sports: the social sports and fashion social sports and fashion

connectionconnection

This chapter was inspired by the premiere of the documentary Bully and the This chapter was inspired by the premiere of the documentary Bully and the controversy over its rating and content.controversy over its rating and content.

Asanta HawthorneAsanta Hawthorne To me, bullying should never be okay. Every school should have students To me, bullying should never be okay. Every school should have students monitored on who theyre having problems with and why. No students should be monitored on who theyre having problems with and why. No students should be bullied because of their color, gender, or country of origin.bullied because of their color, gender, or country of origin. When I was in elementary school, I was bullied everyday in 4-5th grade so I When I was in elementary school, I was bullied everyday in 4-5th grade so I can actually relate to a person who is bullied. It was horrible. Some days I didnt can actually relate to a person who is bullied. It was horrible. Some days I didnt want to go to school. Bullying really takes a toll on its victim. want to go to school. Bullying really takes a toll on its victim.

Neshat PatwaryNeshat Patwary I think people should stop bullying. It hurts the victims who are getting I think people should stop bullying. It hurts the victims who are getting bullied by others. Sometimes the victim who is getting bullied may end up doing bullied by others. Sometimes the victim who is getting bullied may end up doing something drastic. I think the school could stop bullying . Its their responsibility something drastic. I think the school could stop bullying . Its their responsibility because students parents arent next to them. Many victims end up committing because students parents arent next to them. Many victims end up committing suicide due to the bullying and getting badly judged for their looks, clothing, and suicide due to the bullying and getting badly judged for their looks, clothing, and more. Basically to me it isnt important or relevant to judge others, particularly more. Basically to me it isnt important or relevant to judge others, particularly peers. The only thing that is important is being nice to others. peers. The only thing that is important is being nice to others.

Kriselle AlvarezKriselle AlvarezI feel that bullying is a very dangerous thing. I also feel that the school I feel that bullying is a very dangerous thing. I also feel that the school staff members should do something about it. One reason bullying is a dangerous staff members should do something about it. One reason bullying is a dangerous thing is because kids can be forced to commit suicide. In this case, staff should thing is because kids can be forced to commit suicide. In this case, staff should take care of it.take care of it.

Linda RamirezLinda Ramirez Bullying is not a good thing to do. People get hurt and upset. The people Bullying is not a good thing to do. People get hurt and upset. The people who bully think they can control others and feel powerful. But being brave and who bully think they can control others and feel powerful. But being brave and sticking up for yourself helps end bullying.sticking up for yourself helps end bullying.

Janet ShumumovaJanet Shumumova Bullying is a very important part of this world. There are many types of Bullying is a very important part of this world. There are many types of bullying such as cyber bullying and regular type of bullying in school or anywhere. bullying such as cyber bullying and regular type of bullying in school or anywhere. Now they have a documentary entitled Bully. I think its the schools obligation Now they have a documentary entitled Bully. I think its the schools obligation to deal directly and effectively with bullying. In that movie, 2 out of 5 kids to deal directly and effectively with bullying. In that movie, 2 out of 5 kids committed suicide. committed suicide. In the movie, they show you how the victims are bullied . The filmmakers In the movie, they show you how the victims are bullied . The filmmakers include dialogue with expletives and violence perpetrated on the victims by their include dialogue with expletives and violence perpetrated on the victims by their peers. I feel that bullying can be stopped by the principal and other teachers. peers. I feel that bullying can be stopped by the principal and other teachers. There can be a law about bullying but thats not really needed. There can be a law about bullying but thats not really needed.

Khym DupreKhym Dupre

What is bullying?What is bullying?Is it a way of being meanIs it a way of being meanOr is it a way of life?Or is it a way of life?Why do people do it?Why do people do it?Why the conflict?Why the conflict?The behavior is uncannyThe behavior is uncannyWe need a defense mechanismWe need a defense mechanismIts also abuse of powerIts also abuse of powerWhat is bullying?What is bullying?Its a cruel way to treat people.Its a cruel way to treat people.

Bullying in gamesBullying in gamesFootball, baseball, basketball, soccerFootball, baseball, basketball, soccerWhatever game, theres bullying.Whatever game, theres bullying.Why is there so much cruelty?Why is there so much cruelty?People and their behavior People and their behavior More guards, more defenseMore guards, more defenseLess crime, less harassmentLess crime, less harassmentTake time to think it over.Take time to think it over.Please no conflict.Please no conflict.But But Nurture friendship between teamsNurture friendship between teamsLess judgment, share the love.Less judgment, share the love.

Anaya DeslandesAnaya Deslandes Many people have bullying problems. They see someone being bullied. Most Many people have bullying problems. They see someone being bullied. Most of the time, it is usually a child or student in school being bullied. Many of them of the time, it is usually a child or student in school being bullied. Many of them feel as if they cant do anything about it. Nobody usually believes them. How feel as if they cant do anything about it. Nobody usually believes them. How sad when help is urgently needed. sad when help is urgently needed.

Arielle ThomasArielle Thomas Every year millions of children get bullied. When children get bullied they Every year millions of children get bullied. When children get bullied they either speak up and get some help or they are silent about their problems. either speak up and get some help or they are silent about their problems. Often, they keep on getting bullied repeatedly. Some children get tired of Often, they keep on getting bullied repeatedly. Some children get tired of getting bullied and as everyone has they have their breaking point and start to getting bullied and as everyone has they have their breaking point and start to fight back. When students who are being bullied fight back, it creates even more fight back. When students who are being bullied fight back, it creates even more of a situation. When they fight back they get beaten up and injured. They get of a situation. When they fight back they get beaten up and injured. They get in trouble for fighting. Some children do speak up and get help but some children in trouble for fighting. Some children do speak up and get help but some children still get bullied today. still get bullied today.

Commentary - BullyingCommentary - BullyingElizabeth Valenzuela, Editor-in-Chief of The Cabrini CourierElizabeth Valenzuela, Editor-in-Chief of The Cabrini Courier Whenever bullying occurs, there are three kinds of people involved: the bully, Whenever bullying occurs, there are three kinds of people involved: the bully, the victim and the person who stands by. The bullyfinds any excuse to belittle the victim and the person who stands by. The bullyfinds any excuse to belittle his/her victim: whether its the victims sense of style, their race or their customs. his/her victim: whether its the victims sense of style, their race or their customs. Its important to know that bullies behave this way to feel better about Its important to know that bullies behave this way to feel better about themselves. When they see great qualities in their victims that they wish they had, themselves. When they see great qualities in their victims that they wish they had, they make fun of them or abuse them to make them feel small and worthless. they make fun of them or abuse them to make them feel small and worthless. Victims of bullying should try to ignore their bully, always remembering that Victims of bullying should try to ignore their bully, always remembering that they do not deserve bad treatment and never sinking to the bullys level. Victims they do not deserve bad treatment and never sinking to the bullys level. Victims of bullying should also seek the advice/ help of their parents and teachers of bullying should also seek the advice/ help of their parents and teachers without fear. Those who stand by and witness bullying as it happens should without fear. Those who stand by and witness bullying as it happens should immediately seek the help of a teacher. Remember that no one deserves to be immediately seek the help of a teacher. Remember that no one deserves to be bullied and that each of us can do something to stop it from happening.bullied and that each of us can do something to stop it from happening.

Chapter 5:Chapter 5:

The Death of The Death of Whitney houstonWhitney houston

Christina SmallsChristina SmallsThe Death of a StarThe Death of a Star Whitney Houston was one of our generations great musical talents. But Whitney Houston was one of our generations great musical talents. But sadly, the talent was wasted, tragically. She died from a drug overdose. She had sadly, the talent was wasted, tragically. She died from a drug overdose. She had many accidents with drugs, but this apparently was her last accident. So many many accidents with drugs, but this apparently was her last accident. So many beautiful singers have been killed by drug addiction, like Amy Winehouse. Amy beautiful singers have been killed by drug addiction, like Amy Winehouse. Amy Winehouses voice captured the hearts of millions, but she also tragically died Winehouses voice captured the hearts of millions, but she also tragically died from drug use. Whitney Houston is a singer well never forget, not to mention from drug use. Whitney Houston is a singer well never forget, not to mention Amy Winehouse also.Amy Winehouse also. This relates to Social Studies as far as persons, culture, values, regions and This relates to Social Studies as far as persons, culture, values, regions and celebrity.celebrity.

Enmanuel SibrianEnmanuel Sibrian The Whitney Houston situation isnt really that important to me. It really The Whitney Houston situation isnt really that important to me. It really isnt because I didnt listen to her music. I feel sorry for her daughter but its not a isnt because I didnt listen to her music. I feel sorry for her daughter but its not a big matter for me.big matter for me.

Kimberly RochaKimberly Rocha Whitney Houston died at the age of 48. She was an amazing singer. She Whitney Houston died at the age of 48. She was an amazing singer. She was much loved and still is by millions of fans. But maybe she didnt realize it. was much loved and still is by millions of fans. But maybe she didnt realize it. Whitney got addicted to drugs and booze. There were 100,000 downloads in Whitney got addicted to drugs and booze. There were 100,000 downloads in just the first day after her tragic death. She was found dead in the bathtub of just the first day after her tragic death. She was found dead in the bathtub of a hotel. Her daughter had a panic attack right after she heard of her a hotel. Her daughter had a panic attack right after she heard of her mothers death. She also had another attack the next day. For both she had to mothers death. She also had another attack the next day. For both she had to be rushed to the hospital.be rushed to the hospital.

Jennifer ShalmiyevJennifer Shalmiyev What can you say about how fame and fortune can affect a person? As What can you say about how fame and fortune can affect a person? As regards to 48 year old Whitney Houston, it brought trouble, stress and then regards to 48 year old Whitney Houston, it brought trouble, stress and then death at an early age. Other celebrities have overdosed on drugs and passed death at an early age. Other celebrities have overdosed on drugs and passed away. Singer/ dancer Michael Jackson overdosed on drug medication. The doctor away. Singer/ dancer Michael Jackson overdosed on drug medication. The doctor claimed that he hadnt told him to take so much medication but then again claimed that he hadnt told him to take so much medication but then again when answering questions he was drunk. Its surprising and amazing what fame when answering questions he was drunk. Its surprising and amazing what fame can lead to for some celebrities.

Zanaya RogersZanaya Rogers

The Old Die YoungThe Old Die YoungThe old die young?The old die young?This question can make you wonder, This question can make you wonder, What couldve caused this death?What couldve caused this death?One that made millions cry.One that made millions cry.One that left many depressed.One that left many depressed.A young, soulful voice.A young, soulful voice.A young woman.A young woman.With an audience of all ages.With an audience of all ages.Yet with old experience,Yet with old experience,Making her memorable.Making her memorable.Sure shes had hardships,Sure shes had hardships,Everyone does.Everyone does.But why, someone explain why,But why, someone explain why,The famed die young.The famed die young.

Ambre Hall Editorial CommentaryAmbre Hall Editorial Commentary This poem has some connections to Social Studies. Whitney Houstons voice This poem has some connections to Social Studies. Whitney Houstons voice expressed her feelings. She was a strong African-American woman that died expressed her feelings. She was a strong African-American woman that died young. Her songs represented her. This connects music to people, people can young. Her songs represented her. This connects music to people, people can connect with struggle. Struggle connects back in history, struggles that not only connect with struggle. Struggle connects back in history, struggles that not only African Americans but others faced as well.African Americans but others faced as well.

Kriselle AlvarezKriselle AlvarezThe Missed (We all Miss Whitney Houston)The Missed (We all Miss Whitney Houston)

You will be missed,You will be missed,Im sure your family and friends will be p_____.Im sure your family and friends will be p_____.You were loved by many, You were loved by many, Fans and much more.Fans and much more.You were never a bore.You were never a bore.You was very famous.You was very famous.We all know youre not gone foreverWe all know youre not gone foreverYou were so very clever.You were so very clever.You are to be missed, Whitney HoustonYou are to be missed, Whitney HoustonOh, how you are missed.Oh, how you are missed.

Ambre HallAmbre Hall

A Daughters Lament- Bobbi Kristina Browns PerspectiveA Daughters Lament- Bobbi Kristina Browns PerspectiveI miss you.I miss you.I love you.I love you.I wish I couldve helped.I wish I couldve helped.But it wouldnt have changed,But it wouldnt have changed,How you feltHow you felt

Is there anything I couldve done?Is there anything I couldve done?Everyone can play the It gameEveryone can play the It gameWe all know its just a game of torture.We all know its just a game of torture.But can I ask you something?But can I ask you something?Fame, fortune, love they are all balanced-Fame, fortune, love they are all balanced-What happens if one gets unbalanced?What happens if one gets unbalanced?And what does it mean for the daughterAnd what does it mean for the daughterWhat does it mean for me?What does it mean for me?

Social Studies connection: Social Studies connection: When a famous person dies from drug addiction that When a famous person dies from drug addiction that puts the child/ children in a position where they feel emotionally devastated. puts the child/ children in a position where they feel emotionally devastated. Then they might end up using drugs themselves. This relates to Social Studies Then they might end up using drugs themselves. This relates to Social Studies because sometimes history or in most cases, history repeats itself. It also deals because sometimes history or in most cases, history repeats itself. It also deals with the family and community issues of survival, drug addiction, youth citizenship with the family and community issues of survival, drug addiction, youth citizenship and social/emotional well being.and social/emotional well being.

Fashion, Sports, and Entertainment

Chapter 6:Fashion, Sports, and EntertainmentFashion, Sports, and Entertainment

Music for Eternity Music for Eternity By Aneesa Ahmed and Genesis OreaBy Aneesa Ahmed and Genesis Orea

My heart flowsMy heart flowsFor that one song.For that one song.The rhythm is like-The rhythm is like-My heart beating-My heart beating-I sing and dance,I sing and dance,To it all day and night.To it all day and night.I dream of it,I dream of it,I paint my song-I paint my song-On canvas likeOn canvas likeCreating a masterpiece,Creating a masterpiece,Music is entertaining-Music is entertaining-Like chocolate and ice-cream.Like chocolate and ice-cream.The energy flows for eternity-The energy flows for eternity-An addiction to sound.An addiction to sound.An addiction thats foundAn addiction thats foundThis song I love.This song I love.I breathe, I feelI breathe, I feelAnd I paint.And I paint.

This poem is related to Social Studies because it deals with U.S. power and focuses This poem is related to Social Studies because it deals with U.S. power and focuses on how music affects individuals.on how music affects individuals.

Kaalel RobinsonKaalel RobinsonSports, Fashion and Entertainment- The Social Studies ConnectionSports, Fashion and Entertainment- The Social Studies Connection I believe that sports, fashion and entertainment should be in school I believe that sports, fashion and entertainment should be in school textbooks. Personally, I love sports. Football, basketball, and soccer are my best textbooks. Personally, I love sports. Football, basketball, and soccer are my best sports. I like to have friendly games. I dont care if I win or lose, as long as I have sports. I like to have friendly games. I dont care if I win or lose, as long as I have fun playing.fun playing. Sports should be in the school textbooks because they are history and Sports should be in the school textbooks because they are history and deserve to have a spot in my textbook. The textbooks now are boring, but they deserve to have a spot in my textbook. The textbooks now are boring, but they tell you about things that happened a long time ago. Events may that take tell you about things that happened a long time ago. Events may that take place years ago are still considered history, so sports should be considered history place years ago are still considered history, so sports should be conside