2017 CLASSROOM TIMES

Written and illustrated by students in Cape and Islands schools

CONTENTS ■ News/Features 1 Photography (Schoolwork), ■ Opinion 12 grades 10-12 ■ Reviews 20 JACK HINSON, grade 10, ■ Sports 26 Nantucket High School

If you’d like to view this section online — or give off- Cape friends and relatives the chance to see it — visit www.capecodtimes.com/ classroomtimes. NEWS/FEATURES Falmouth lost a piece of its heart EDITOR: Patti Bangert By Leah Hidenfelter [email protected] GRADE 9-12 or James Lavin, of Falmouth, who were killed in a car crash on Dec. 22, COMMUNITY MARKETING s a teenager, I dream and 2016. COORDINATOR: I hope, often for small When I first heard the news, Pat Switchenko A things, such as the upcom- though, my stomach could not settle, ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER: ing prom or my volleyball game and my brain could not fathom the Kevin Karras next weekend, but also for the more reality that they would no longer be important things. here with us on this earth. DESIGNER: I find myself daydreaming of grow- They could no longer dream their Grace McConnell, ing up with my friends, experiencing own dreams or hope for what they Center for News and Design college, traveling the world and hoped for. maybe settling down one day with a But as I continued to read the large family. articles and listen to the news We think of our futures every day, reports, my heart ached, not only for maybe for the worse, or maybe for the hope when other people around me the fact that their dreams could no 319 Main St., Hyannis, MA 02601 better. no longer can? The answer is simple: longer come true but rather the effect capecodtimes.com But now, when I start to think It is not fair. on their friends’ and families’ hearts capecodonline.com about my future, I hesitate. How is Personally, I did not have the plea- 508-862-1200 it fair for me to be able to dream and sure of knowing either Owen Higgins CONTINUED ON PAGE 2 2 | Tuesday, April 4, 2017 | Classroom Times

CONTINUED FROM COVER PAGE piece in Falmouth’s heart as a community. forever. Everyone watched as their jerseys The titles best friend, son and were paraded around the ice, rather teammate would no longer be given. than where they belonged, on the CLASSROOM TIMES 2017 I thought of their families, and how backs of both James and Owen. their presents would No more memories remain wrapped, under would be made, no more Dear readers, the tree on Christmas “Life can change dreams would come true, morning. so quickly, and no more hopes and It shook me when I saw wishes would be granted My goodness, Cape Cod kids are pretty amazing! the images of their friends so instead of for the families, friends, gathered together, mourn- dreaming and teammates and this Cape They’re smart, they’re funny, they’re passion- ing on the field where they hoping, we community for James once were celebrating with Lavin and Owen Higgins. ate, they’re thoughtful, they’re honest and even should live their teammates for the So, when catching profound. state championship title, life and make myself daydreaming in or the idea of their hockey memories...” class, I will now always It is a privilege to continue the tradition of Class- teammates entering their think of Owen and James locker room with their — Leah Hidenfelter and their dreams that room Times showcasing some of the best student jerseys still hung and their will not be pursued. writing, photography and advertising design pro- names still labeled, like Life can change so time was frozen and it was all just a quickly, so instead of dreaming duced by kids in grades 4 through 12 from all over dream. and hoping, we should live life and Everyone their lives impacted make memories in honor of James the Cape and Islands. would be left with just the memories. and Owen, because we never know As I stood in the Falmouth stands when that will be all we have left. Students whose work made it into this 2017 issue with over 500 people a few weeks after Leah Hidenfelter is an 11th-grader of Classroom Times should be super proud. We the crash, I could still feel a missing at Bourne High School. received 597 essays, 320 photographs and 363 ads. That’s some competition! Our judges are the cream of the crop as well — many award-winning journalists, photojournalists and advertising executives. They know their stuff. Students whose work is not in this issue need to know that our judges don’t take their task lightly. You made their jobs very difficult with all of the top-notch work you submitted. Thank you to every student who participated. Your enthusiasm is palpable. Thank you so much to all of the teachers who encourage their students to go for it and who go above and beyond to make this happen. I’m sure your students and their parents know how deeply you care, and it’s very obvious to us as well.

Sincerely, Patti Bangert Special Sections and PrimeTime Cape Cod editor Classroom Times | Tuesday, April 4, 2017 | 3

NEWS/FEATURES Human trafficking Turbulent Waters: Norovirus and vibrio affect knows no borders Wellfleet’s shellfish industry By Maya Krieger-DeWitt GRADE 9-12 By Ben Pickard GRADE 9-12 ccording to the Depart- ment of Homeland he quaint fishing village A Security, human traffick- of Wellfleet is famous for ing is forced labor of individuals for T its oysters. Tourists travel sexual or work purposes. Perpetra- from across the country to summer tors use “force, fraud or coercion” on the town’s sandy shores and to profit from the acts of victims. consume its invertebrate delicacy. Human trafficking is an interna- However, a stain has appeared on tional issue that is largely hidden from the oyster’s pristine reputation. The the public eye. Human trafficking famous Wellfleet oyster has become knows no borders, and the trends of associated with foodborne illnesses. victimization even occur on Cape Cod. On Oct. 13, 2016, state officials The Massachusetts chapter of the use to brand and identify their closed Wellfleet Harbor to shellfish- infection. The vibrio bacteria National Human Trafficking Hotline workers. ing after 75 people became ill from become active if the shellfish is not reported 88 cases in 2016 alone, and Isabel Pellegrini, Nauset consuming raw Wellfleet oysters. properly iced or kept at a cool tem- 67 of these cases were sex traffick- Regional High School junior, has The state Department of Public perature.The plan came after a great ing. The hotline acts as a resource for been studying trafficking on Cape Health presumed the illness to be the number of individuals became ill victims, survivors and those looking Cod as part of a yearlong advo- norovirus. with food poisoning after consuming for trafficking information. cacy project. She was trained by Norovirus is a common cause of raw shellfish in Duxbury. In January 2014, Cape Cod Cape Cod PATH in advocacy and food poisoning, sometimes referred Now, shellfishermen throughout locals banded together to form education, giving her the ability to to as the stomach flu. the state have to fill out exten- Massachusetts’ first human traf- share her anti-trafficking message This closure was just days before sive log books chronicling time of ficking education group, Cape Cod with her peers. the 16th annual Wellfleet Oyster- exposure, time of icing and various PATH, which stands for People Pellegrini points out, “the Fest, held Oct. 15 and 16. This meant other details to ensure the safety Against Trafficking of Humans. majority of people living on Cape no Wellfleet oysters were allowed in of consumers. The harvesters are The organization focuses on out- Cod disregard or ignore the pres- the festival, a festival that glorifies also required to extensively ice their reach and education to schools and ence of trafficking in a place so the Wellfleet oyster. product with at least 6 inches of ice communities. close to home. … A problem can’t Mac Hay, board president of Shell- on each side to minimize the possi- Meridith Baier, chairwoman of be fixed if people continue to fish Promotion and Testing (SPAT), bility of vibrio occurring. PATH, says “the influx of foreign ignore the actuality and perva- which is in charge of the OysterFest, However, not all of the regulations nationals serving the tourist indus- siveness of the problem.” described the abrupt closure as, “It’s are fully enforced by the shellfish try in the summertime is a welcome In 2012, a Massachusetts law life, you have to roll with it.” constables and the Massachusetts mat for labor exploitation.” Cases went into effect that created an According to SPAT, roughly Environmental Police. Laws that are “are all heart-wrenching and trau- anti-trafficking task force. How- 25,000 people attend the two-day not enforced are ineffective matic,” adds Baier. ever, the largest legislative problem event. That translates into an unbe- at keeping consumers safe. “Pimps,” or those who organize for trafficking is that victims over lievable amount of Wellfleet oysters This may be the catalyst for the trafficking rings, are known to the age of 18 can be prosecuted that were not able to be sold by local recent increases in the foodborne “shop” for girls and other victims under prostitution charges, despite fishermen, which is a substantial loss illnesses. in public spaces such as malls and their helpless role. Because the sex in income for the town. With concerns about disease and parties. The pimps will continue to industry is so taboo, sex victims are In fact, it is believed that revenue turbulent times for the shellfisher- woo the victims and coerce them seen as perpetrators. from the festival was down by at men, the question must be asked: Is into performing sexual acts for them With the continued increase of least 25 percent from the estimated it safe to eat raw oysters? and others. By the time the victims education forces in Massachu- $100,000 that is normally brought Well, there is always a risk when realize they are enslaved, escaping setts, the hope is that trafficking in. consuming raw shellfish, but if the the ring is usually dangerous and victims in this state can be aided. Michelle Insley, the executive product is properly handled then it is terrifying. If you or someone you know is a director of SPAT, stated that the ban safe to eat. There are several trafficking victim of human trafficking trying was “devastating to festgoers and With proper education in the warning signs you can look out for. to escape, please call the National shellfishermen alike.” handling, growing and consumption For example, victims may be young Human Trafficking Hotline at On a different note, in 2012 the of Wellfleet shellfish, the industry’s girls accompanied by much older 1-888-373-7888. Massachusetts Department of marred reputation could become boyfriends or brag about money and Maya Krieger-DeWitt is a 12th- Marine Fisheries implemented a history. parties. Another sign is new and grader at Nauset Regional High control plan to combat vibrio, a Ben Pickard is a 12th-grader at unexpected tattoos, which pimps School. bacterium that causes foodborne Nauset Regional High School. 4 | Tuesday, April 4, 2017 | Classroom Times

Photography (Snapshot), Grades 7-12

KYLIE HATHAWAY, grade 12, Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School, Oak Bluffs

Wi“nning Words NEWS/FEATURES Photography (Snapshot), “I have been slowly Grades 4-6 peeling it off of me, but we know the easiest IZZY GHERARDI, way is to just rip it off grade 6, St. Francis Xavier fast — shut my eyes Preparatory tight and grit my teeth.” School, Hyannis —Hope Oliveira, Grade 7, Lawrence School, Falmouth Classroom Times | Tuesday, April 4, 2017 | 5 NEWS/FEATURES Teachers weigh in on Trump’s travel ban By Kyleigh Macedo down the Statue of Liberty, consid- “ GRADESGRADES 7-8 Winning ering that it signifies freedom and ontroversy was sparked respect. We aren’t seeing too much when Donald Trump of either. Words C decided to run for president The next teacher I interviewed was NEWS/FEATURES of the United States. Now elected, for the Trump ban but thought it was President Trump has made many poorly implemented. “‘Roof! Roof!’ Did you decisions that are causing great dis- She said, “My immigrant grand- agreement across the globe. parents came to the country legally, hear that? It’s a chinook There have been protests through- they were carefully vetted, and coming your way!” out the world because of his travel Italians did not have a history of ban. terrorism against Americans. I don’t —Haleigh Burchill, Grade 7, St. For those of you who do not know, want another 9/11 or an Orlando Pius X School, South Yarmouth Trump ordered a temporary ban on shooting. In fact, I’m a believer in citizens from seven mostly Muslim strong vetting of all countries.” countries; he later reduced that to I interviewed a 10th- and 11th- My interviewees’ opinions are a lot “The click of the keys six countries. grade English teacher who thought different from each other’s, but we soothe my ears like a He believes this will protect citi- the ban was very “interesting” but should still respect what they think ticking clock.” zens of the United States. believed it caused more chaos than is right. I spoke to two English teachers at peace. What are your thoughts on Presi- Monomoy Regional High School and She said because they are ban- dent Trump’s ban? —Ali Hawk, Grade 5, Orleans asked for their opinion on the presi- ning immigrants from coming into Kyleigh Macedo is an eighth-grader Elementary School dent’s plan. our country, they might as well take at Monomoy Regional High School. 6 | Tuesday, April 4, 2017 | Classroom Times

NEWS/FEATURES The selling of slime in schools

By Viveca Stucke GRADES 7-8 new and messy trend is sweeping across the A nation, leaving adoles- cents’ bright pink ceramic piggy banks empty. You can poke it, squish it and even pull it! A jab at this matter can be heard from miles away. Homemade slime is the new, pop- ular fad produced from Borax, liquid Photography school glue and shaving cream. The (Schoolwork), ingredients may have different ratios Grades 7-9 depending on how the buyer prefers the texture of the substance. At Bourne Middle School, selling finish undone homework or social- ANNABELLE CUTRER, slime has become many crafty teens’ izing with friends. grade 9, way of making money. The profit The most important question is Martha’s Vineyard for these students is the remainder if slime is simply a trend or will be Regional High of the money earned after the slime a lifetime obsession. Are parents School, Oak Bluffs maker purchases the supplies. One going to be dashing to the nearest student in the seventh grade at BMS Michael’s or A.C Moore at 7 p.m. so earned $70 in a single week from her their children can finish an impor- thriving slime business! tant order of slime many years from If you walked into the buzzing now? Bourne Middle School seventh-grade Slime hasn’t been a craze long hallway during the short homeroom enough for these wise questions to period from 7:45 to 8:05 a.m., you be answered, but, for the time being, would find about half of the sleepy green bills are being traded for the students playing with slime, then common passion of frolicking with another several students graciously slime. investing in the business. The rest Viveca Stucke is a seventh-grader of the students would be rushing to at Bourne Middle School.

Winning“ Words NEWS/FEATURES

“Olive oil spills out of the bottle and into the pan. I put the sliced potatoes into the pan. Steam rises up into the air Photography as I put the Lawry’s seasoning salt on the potatoes. I get (Schoolwork), another molded metal pan, crack four eggs into it, and the grades 7-9 yolk drips down the side of the shiny copper.” BRIANNA BRANN, —Lydia Morse, Grade 5, Orleans Elementary School grade 9, Barnstable High School, Hyannis Classroom Times | Tuesday, April 4, 2017 | 7

NEWS/FEATURES The Ghost Light Project celebrates inclusion, compassion

By Lucy Blood express what it was they stood for. GRADES 7-8 to create a ‘light’ for dark times At 5:30 p.m. everyone assembled ahead, and to make, or renew, a ot long after the sun had outside and held their lights and pledge to stand for and protect the sunk below the horizon, signs toward the sky. Hope filled values of inclusion, participation and N thousands of people the crowd, and, after a few minutes, compassion for everyone regard- across the country gathered in sup- everyone congregated inside the less of race, class, religion, country port of inclusion and compassion. theater. of origin, immigration status, (dis) This demonstration, called the People from theaters all over the ability, age, gender identity or sexual Ghost Light Project, occurred in Cape spoke to the crowd, including orientation.” early January at hundreds of the- Janet Lesniak, executive director Although it may have seemed like aters nationally. of Wellfleet Preservation Hall. She a protest, this gathering was very One of these theaters, Wellfleet said, “Together, I really believe that focused on hope, gratitude and joy: Harbor Actors Theater, invited we can create some change.” hope in knowing that there were so members of the public to join in the Jeffry George, executive and many people coming together for an celebration. artistic director at Wellfleet Harbor theater in our community, instruct- important cause; gratitude toward As people arrived, they were Actors Theater, also spoke. He ing the crowd to, “Go to the theater. the theaters, as a sanctuary and a provided with signs to complete, explained that the Ghost Light was It’s an incredible experience.” place of welcome; and joy, because emblazoned with the messages important because it was a welcom- On the Ghost Light Project web- there were tea and cookies! “I Fight For” and “I Welcome,” ing sign and it was designed so that site, a statement is made about what Lucy Blood is an eighth-grader enabling each and every person all could “see safety in the dark.” the project is and why people did it. at Nauset Regional Middle School, to hold their own and to proudly He also discussed the value of “We will gather outside of theaters Orleans. 8 | Tuesday, April 4, 2017 | Classroom Times

Photography (Schoolwork), grades 10-12

COLIN HENKE, grade 10, Marthaís Vineyard Regional High School, Oak Bluffs

Winning“ Words NEWS/FEATURES

“It was the end of spring, beginning of summer when he fi rrstst bit.bit. They wwereere Photography (Snapshot), friends, so it was not necessary for him to grades 7-12 bite. Coming through the gate, the father jumped in front of his daughter. He was the EMILY GAZZANIGA, person who was bitten. I’m sure Charlie grade 9, Marthaís Vineyard thought he was someone bad though.” Regional High School, Oak Bluffs — Olivia Richards, Grade 4, Eastham Elementary School Classroom Times | Tuesday, April 4, 2017 | 9

NEWS/FEATURES Legalizing marijuana use raises health and safety concerns

By Bailey Hewson GRADESGRADES 4-6 a basket of marijuana was found in worldwide. In the United ith the legalization of China dating back to 2,500 to 2,800 States, 44 percent of 12th-graders marijuana in Massa- years ago. have tried marijuana at least once. W chusetts, many issues Explorer John Bourke described The marijuana market is at least concerning health and legality will the use of what he called “mariguan” a $36 billion business. The price of begin. Marijuana will be easier to for the treatment of asthma, to keep marijuana varies depending on its obtain for adults. It has many effects away witches, and as a “love-phil- source. It is approximately $10 to that change a person’s mental tre.” Mariguan was also known as $15 per ounce, according to the 2008 health. “locoweed.” World Drug Report, and street prices While marijuana has some health Marijuana soon started to be can range from $40 to $400 per benefits such as slowing cancer or restricted in many areas. In 1906, it ounce. glaucoma, decreasing anxiety and was banned from being sold in the Marijuana is called the “gateway slowing the progression of Alzheim- United States. drug” because when people use er’s disease, marijuana, also known It was also being ruled out in many marijuana they often progress to as cannabis, can be used for danger- other countries like Jamaica, South harder drugs. ous recreational use such as smoking concentration and pleasure centers Africa, United Kingdom and New Authorities will face many chal- or vaporization. in the brain. Marijuana can cause Zealand before 1930. In 1937 the lenges as they try to balance health The main active part of marijuana an increase in appetite. Long-term Marihuana Tax Act, which restricted and safety with the voice of the is tetrahydrocannabinol, also known effects of marijuana are memory the production of hemp in addition people. as THC. THC attaches to cannabi- problems and the risk of addiction. to marijuana, was passed. Bailey Hewson is a sixth-grader noid receptors and affects a person’s There is evidence of marijuana In 2014, there were an estimated at St. Francis Xavier Preparatory memory, thinking, movements, in Asia back to 2727 B.C. In 2003, 182,500,000 users of marijuana School, Hyannis. 10 | Tuesday, April 4, 2017 | Classroom Times

NEWS/FEATURES Artifi cialcial intelligence:intelligence: friendfriend oror foe?foe?

By Roisin O’Brien GRADES 4-6 and even in homes. switches would be able to shut off a Although Pepper is currently being robot in case of an emergency. s technology advances, we used only in Japan, Pepper’s com- “A growing number of areas of our see robots rise in popular- pany, SoftBank Robotics, plans to daily lives are increasingly affected A ity in factories, in stores have Pepper help people around the by robotics,” says Mandy Delvaux, a and in the home. One robot can world. Another example of this is a lawmaker who passed this law. replace an entire team of workers, robot that can complete a 300-word “To ensure that robots are and and it doesn’t have to be paid. report in one second, whose first will remain in the service of humans, A study done at Oxford University article was in a Chinese newspaper. we urgently need to create a robust found that 47 percent of U.S. jobs Scientists still think that robots European legal framework.” could be replaced by artificial intel- will not entirely replace journalists, So far, the U.S. has not done much ligence (AI) in the next 20 years. but this still shows how easily human to prevent the robot revolution. An example of this is Pepper, an jobs can be replaced by AI. Even though it hasn’t, we should automated assistant. He has facial The only worry is not just about not worry too much about robots recognition that helps him deter- robots replacing humans. People are taking people’s jobs rising up against mine gender and age. He can also tell how a conversation also worried about robots rising up us, as this will not happen anytime This allows him to find informa- is going based on your expression. and becoming too intelligent. soon. But we will soon need to be tion from the cloud to help him know People seem to love Pepper’s design European lawmakers have already prepared for the future. what topics would be relevant for and humanlike actions. Pepper is called for mandatory kill switches Roisin O’Brien is a sixth-grader at that person. being used in Nescafe stores, banks in every robot in Europe. These kill St. Pius X School, South Yarmouth. Classroom Times | Tuesday, April 4, 2017 | 11

NEWS/FEATURES The weigh-in GRADES 9-12

By Ella Keene

stepped out of the Keefes’ min- ivan. Allie’s dad, Craig, pulled I the cooler out of the back of the car. I smelled fish! I knew I was going to smell fish because we were at the Martha’s Vineyard Striped Bass and Bluefish Derby weigh-in. It was the second night. This was my firstirst timetime thisthis season.season. I hadhad twotwo weigh-weigh- ins, a bluefish and a bonito. It was my made it onto the board! firstirst timetime catchingcatching a bonitobonito andand itit defi-defi- It was my turn. My fish were on nitely put up a fight. First Craig pulled the scale. First, my bluefish went on. out his two fish, which were way “5.37!” Joe, the weigher, said. Next, bigger than mine. Then came mine. my bonito went on. “Let me stretch them out,” Lath- “Four pounds!” he said. Everyone rop, my brother, said. cheered. I went to sign the paper, then “Can I see if they are big enough?” out back. We kept our bonitos and threw our bluefish into the bucket. We Grady, Allie’s brother, asked. Photography “Guys, they are big enough for a watched the people fillet our fish. As we drove away with our hot (Snapshot), fact and you don’t need to stretch grades 7-12 them at all,” I replied. chocolate, I thought, for my first time weighing in a bonito, I did well. We all walked in together. Craig, ABBY JONES, Allie and I waited in line. Allie was Allie’s mom, Lori, looked up whether grade 7, Cyrus Peirce behind me and a guy with a striped or not I got a place on the board. bass was in front of me; the striped “Ella got first for bonito! And Allie Middle School, Nantucket bass was huge. got second!” Lori screamed, excit- It was a long wait, and my fish kept edly. I was so proud. We drove away slipping out of my hands. Finally, celebrating. Next year during the there was one person until it was derby, I will try hard to get first. my turn to weigh them in. The guy Ella Keene is a sixth-grader at West in front of me with the striped bass Tisbury School.

Winning“ Words REVIEWS

“It not only made me appreciate my dog as the lovable, stubby thing that he is, but it also made me realize that I can make a big change in a person’s life based solely on how I act.” Photography (Schoolwork), —Kaitlin Meredith, Grade 12, St. John Paul II High School, Hyannis grades 7-9

ALICE MURPHY, grade 7, St. Francis Xavier Preparatory School, Hyannis 12 | Tuesday, April 4, 2017 | Classroom Times

OPINION Reliance on group identity A letter to society adds fuel to polarization fi rere By Whitney Meritus GRADESGRADES 99-12 By Tim Cejka ear Society, GRADES 9-12 We need to have a talk. ooking for encouragement D For a while now, you after the presidential elec- haven’t really been making the best L tion, I blew the dust off of “life” decisions. As a result, many the surface of a book by Henry David innocent people have paid the price Thoreau. for your careless wrongdoings. I contemplated the words of the Now, I’m not one for confronta- American philosopher who revolu- tions; however, sometimes you tionized the way we think about civic need to let one know how much duty. I found his words to be sur- they have hurt you, or those around prisingly relevant in our post-truth you. America. I write to you in my 15th year. In the middle of the 19th century, I guess one could say that I’m Thoreau set himself apart from the not the same person I was before U.S. government, whose tolerance of high school, and that’s because of Yes, her dad is still around, and slavery and the Mexican-American you. You have changed me for the even if those answers were any War he deemed unjust. But Thoreau demands that the better. different, who cares? In his essay “Civil Disobedience,” speaker be not silenced at all: “The However, I wish you could’ve Look at her; that’s one strong he admirably proclaimed, “I ask for volatile truth of our words should found a softer approach, and I wish woman. not at once no government, but at continually betray the inadequacy of you hadn’t left such a huge mess for Society, you’re a real fool, and once a better government.” Many the residual statements,” he con- me to deal with. I really dislike you for that. of his lessons still apply today when cluded in Walden. Although that is just my optimis- You’re so foolish that you we consider our perspective on our Today’s America should stand not tic view trying to shed some light let him walk around with his government and each other. only for diversity of color, gender on this situation. joe boxers out, but she has to Out of Thoreau’s immortal legacy, and sexuality, but also for the diver- Do you know how hard it is to try change because her shoulders one message speaks to me the most: sity of thought and expression. to stay positive when you’re sur- are a distraction to the learning People should aspire to be “men The rise of a demagogue distracted rounded by so much negativity? environment. first, subjects afterward.” many people from noticing a poten- No, you probably have no clue. In You’re so foolish that it’s sud- Thoreau was a liberal in the origi- tial wound to our freedom — the fact, you were the one that set up denly not her decision to have nal, 19th-century sense of the word emergence of “safe spaces” and trig- all of this negativity, and we walked that baby or not. — he respected his fellow citizens for ger warnings that silence students right into your trap. It’s your fault that he’s getting the very fact that they were human. on campuses. She blames you. He blames you. let off easy for that murder, yet Today, one can’t help but notice Assuming they are not hate- They blame you. I blame you. We some baby is gonna have to grow the increasing number of people who ful, words should not be subject to ALL blame you. up without a dad. identify primarily as members of a restrictions, since “The lawyer’s Why? Please, tell me why her hair It’s your fault she throws group rather than as independent truth is not Truth, but consistency or is considered nappy? She loves her up at night to look like those individuals. a consistent expediency.” hair. other girls. It’s your fault that The problem is that when a group Only when it thought inde- Why do they speak poorly of her they can’t hold hands in public tries to become louder, the voices of pendently and spoke freely has weave behind her back, yet to her because it’s wrong. its individual members become lost this country moved forward. But face, they are so “in love” with it, When they say that black lives in the group’s streamlined outcry. America has recently experienced and even feel the need to pet her matter, that doesn’t mean that Consider how groups compete too many crowds and too few like she is some animal? others don’t. with each other for the attention of discussions. Why do they care if it’s real, but She doesn’t hate men because politicians. Would the members of We have silenced those whose don’t seem to care if their questions she believes that women deserve Black Lives Matter have halted the ideas seemed inappropriate to us, keep her up at night? fundamental human rights. gay pride parade in Toronto last year and for our own ideas, we have asked However, she’s too nice to tell Stop twisting their words, and if each of its members had listened others. them how much it bothers her. take responsibility for your own not to his group’s agenda but to his If we want to become the coun- Even if she did finally gain actions. conscience? ter-friction to what we may see as enough strength to tell them to It’s your fault, now do some- It is perhaps this reliance on group the friction of the governmental stop, they would just call her sassy, thing about it. identity that has added fuel to the machine, we need to restore proper and she’d fall right into that angry Sincerely, polarization and lack of construc- respect for each other - not because black woman stereotype. A girl with a dream tive dialogue in this country. It is we are members of some group, but While we’re addressing stereo- Whitney Meritus is a ninth- easier to silence a speaker in the because we are humans. types...no, she is not bald. grader at Sturgis Charter Public name of a group than with one’s own Tim Cejka is a 12th-grader at Fal- Yes, she is American. School, Hyannis. arguments. mouth Academy. Classroom Times | Tuesday, April 4, 2017 | 13 OPINION

he is the people’s candidate. Trump bigoted chief strategist, a secretary of Actions trump words: Why the declared, “We are transferring power energy who once vowed to disband the from Washington, D.C., and giving it energy department, and a secretary of back to you, the American people” — a education who believes that teachers inaugural address is meaningless statement that would resonate more should be armed as protection from By Jacob Potts if he hadn’t lost the popular vote and grizzly bears. GRADES 9-12 appointed the richest cabinet in his- This is real. These are the people hoped that President Trump tory (that, for the record, contains its charged with running our country. would use his inaugural address fair share of establishment politicians And, at the helm is a former reality I to demolish his prior per- and lobbyists). He also claimed, “The TV star. Despite my post-election sona and assume a presidential air. oath of office I take today is an oath of anxiety, my heart is not devoid of hope. I thought Trump — or, realistically, allegiance to all Americans.” Only time We still have ardent Democrats and a more level-headed and articulate will tell if Trump will stay true to this resilient “Never Trump” Republicans speechwriter — might be able to usher pledge, but now it seems preposterous. in Washington. We still have a patriotic in a less tumultuous year with some His rhetoric has alienated Muslims, fire burning in our hearts that wants us unifying language. Latinos, African-Americans, disabled to be proud of our nation and what we Now, I feel silly for letting this opti- people, and women, all of whom took do on the world stage. Unfortunately mism color my vision. Trump’s address to the streets the day after the inaugu- for Trump, America is populated by demolished not the idiocy he exhibited ration in protest. Neither Trump nor I nasty women and bad hombres that during his campaign, but instead the Trump who now sits in the Oval Office. can shake the image of a dark, dismal will never stop fighting to keep America hope that he could bring anything to He used his pulpit on Jan. 20 to perform America, but there is a stark difference. great. He may characterize these the table besides his unwavering belief his same old party tricks: decrying To the President, this dark America people as “losers,” but they are far from that he is the infallible messiah who will the establishment, characterizing our is in the immediate past. For me, it’s defeated. Their stamina will prove to be pull our country backwards into the nation as anemic, and promising to in the immediate future. As much as I Trump’s greatest enemy and, with any spray-tanned, gilded days of yore. The “Make America Great Again.” try to find silver linings in his admin- luck, our country’s savior. Trump whose apocalyptic vision ener- He continues to pretend that his istration, all I can see is swampy gray. Jacob Potts is a 12th-grader at Barn- gized his campaign rallies is the same election brings positive change — that His cabinet consists of an objectively stable High School, Hyannis 14 | Tuesday, April 4, 2017 | Classroom Times

OPINION The election results: He is our president

By Brianna Johnson GRADESGRADES 7-8 rom sea to shining sea, anti-Trump protests have F swept the nation. The pro- tests have taken many forms: big, small, violent, peaceful, on screen and in person. Protesting began as Photograohy soon as the election results were in. (Snapshot), Thousands of people rallied grades 4-6 together in front of President Trump’s New York residence and DYLAN OAKLEY, Trump Tower. grade 6, Those particular rallies were Quashnet mostly peaceful, but at least 15 Elementary people were arrested. In Oakland, “Remember, School, Mashpee California, approximately 7,000 individuals flooded the streets to we are all protest the election outcome. citizens of the This protest turned violent, United States, some people throwing rocks at law enforcement and starting about 40 and maybe if fires. we all came During the days after the results were released, thousands of high together as school and college students walked one, we could out of classes in protest. make America As citizens of the United States, we’re fortunate to have the right to great again.” protest freely and peacefully, but we must use it wisely. Some Americans aren’t protest- ing Clinton’s loss or Trump’s win, For the past few months, social but the government itself and some media has been filled with people of the changes planned. However, not willing to accept the newly some people are protesting the inaugurated president. election results, some standing Many protested on social media up for Trump and others trying to platforms with hashtags such as sully his reputation. #NotMyPresident, Citizens across the country #DisruptJ20, #ImStillWithHer, continue to organize protests and #NoFascistUSA, along with many rallies, primarily against Donald others. Social media has also helped Trump. There have been pro- to spread the word about protests tests planned at Trump Tower and rallies across the world. and hotels, and a general strike If you intend to protest, whether HONORABLEHONORABLE MEMENTIONNTION on work, school, and shopping on it be online or in person, act wisely Inauguration Day. and be safe. Remember, we are all Photography There have been walkouts, ral- citizens of the United States, and (Snapshot), lies, and strikes organized in almost maybe if we all came together as grades 4-6 all fifty states in the days leading up one, we could make America great to, the day of, and the days follow- again. WILLIAM CHAPMAN, ing his inauguration. Brianna Johnson is an eighth- grade 6, Social media has a tremendous grader at St. Pius X School, South Quashnet Elementary School, Mashpee impact on our opinions and actions. Yarmouth. Classroom Times | Tuesday, April 4, 2017 | 15

OPINION Inauguration weekend: a contrast in events

By Sam Knight GRADES 7-8 the president arrived at the White Every Metro station was crowded House, the streets of D.C. were still with people spilling out from the was lucky enough to be able well maintained and free of litter. escalators onto the streets. to go to President Trump’s Crowds of attendees found a way Attempting to board a train was I inauguration. Arriving on to navigate the city in an organized difficult, as some protesters began Thursday, I attended a well-orga- fashion, and Friday was a chaos-free shouting at the authorities trying to nized event at the Lincoln Memorial, day in Washington, D.C. organize the station. and Washington, D.C., maintained The next day, I woke up to read Experiencing both events, I was quiet streets. about riots that had occurred the able to take in the reality of politics The next day, I walked down to night before, around the block from and society. the Red Gate of the Capitol Build- my hotel. I was able to understand how ing to witness the 58th Presidential The Women’s March started events that occur in the country can Inauguration. Saturday. It was supposed to be a upset many people. In the early morning, the streets peaceful protest for people to share These two events were almost were completely tranquil and clean their opinions about human rights. opposite of each other, in terms of with National Guard troops on every Washington’s streets were flooded organization, control and profes- corner. Crowds of people started to with people holding signs: some sionalism. Being able to witness both line up at the gates to enter. By 11, Shortly after, the president and vice practical, some extremely vulgar. helped me contrast them and see the ceremony began. president were sworn into office. After this event, the streets were both sides. Former politicians were called The presidential parade began completely trashed with leftover Sam Knight is an eighth-grader at up to the steps of Capitol Hill as after, with politicians parading with signs and wastepaper. Leaving the Cape Cod Lighthouse Charter School, the Marine Corps band performed. the marching bands. Even after city was also challenging. Harwich. 16 | Tuesday, April 4, 2017 | Classroom Times Classroom Times | Tuesday, April 4, 2017 | 17

HONORABLE MENTION Photography (Schoolwork), grades 7-9

TIANNA RAMBONGA, grade 9, Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School, Oak Bluffs

HONORABLE MENTION Photography (Schoolwork), grades 10-12

MYLLENNA DEOLIVEIRA, grade 11, Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School, Oak Bluffs

HONORABLE MENTION Photography HONORABLE MENTION (Snapshot), Photography (Schoolwork), Photography (Snapshot), grades 7-12 grades 7-9 grades 4-6 PhotographyPhotography (Schoolwork),(Schoolwork), SKYLA HARTHCOCK, SHELBY ELDREDGE, grades 10-12 MIKAYLAH TEIBEL, grade 9, grade 8, grade 5, Oak Ridge School, Martha’s Vineyard Regional Falmouth Academy RACHEL CARDILLO, Sandwich High School, Oak Bluffs grade 10, Monomoy Regional High School, Harwich 16 | Tuesday, April 4, 2017 | Classroom Times Classroom Times | Tuesday, April 4, 2017 | 17

HONORABLE MENTION Photography (Schoolwork), grades 7-9

TIANNA RAMBONGA, grade 9, Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School, Oak Bluffs

HOONORNORAABLEBLE MENNTTIOONN Photography (Schoolwork), grades 10-12

MYLLENNA DEOLIVEIRA, grade 11, Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School, Oak Bluffs

HONORABLE MENTION Photography HONORABLE MENTION (Snapshot), Photography (Schoolwork), Photography (Snapshot), grades 7-12 grades 7-9 grades 4-6 Photography (Schoolwork), SKYLA HARTHCOCK, SHELBY ELDREDGE, grades 10-12 MIKAYLAH TEIBEL, grade 9, grade 8, grade 5, Oak Ridge School, Martha’s Vineyard Regional Falmouth Academy RACHEL CARDILLO, Sandwich High School, Oak Bluffs grade 10, Monomoy Regional High School, Harwich 18 | Tuesday, April 4, 2017 | Classroom Times

OPINION My sister’s journey to Christianity We need to increase By Shaylyn Kelly GRADES 7-8 s I sat at the Easter Vigil Mass and watched a priest homeless shelters A pour water on my 16-year- old sister’s head, I witnessed Maya becoming a Christian. Maya is the third oldest child in our around the world family, born just two minutes after her twin brother. None of my other sib- By Amanda Mulligan lings, nor I, have ever been drawn to GRADESGRADES 4-6 religion, but Maya felt differently. My here should definitely be siblings and I never went to church, more homeless shelters, with the exception of our cousins’ T not just in America, but baptisms. We are not a religious in every country, yet we’re doing family. When I asked Maya what made led to the decision to get baptized, absolutely nothing about it. her become a Christian, she told me receive Communion, and get con- Everyone is created equal, so that ultimately it was the realization firmed in the Catholic Church. She why don’t we all have a home? We that she believed that God is all of the started attending Mass every Sunday have to do something about it. love in the world. Her desire to pray to and saying grace before each meal. If anyone will stand up, it should that God was inhibited by her idea that She made friends at her church and be the U.S. We should stand up for she was not worthy, and that she did found rides when our parents were the homeless. Everyone deserves not know how to pray. not available to take her. So on that a home. She told me she was really scared Sunday in 2016, Maya received the First of all, more people are of the judgment she would face, that sacraments of Baptism, First Com- becoming homeless, especially in people would think that maybe it munion, and Confirmation all in one cities. A lot of people die because was just because her closest friends night. Finally, she was officially part of sickness. And guess what? They “Everyone were Catholic and she wanted to be of the Catholic church. can spread that sickness. We need is created like them. It took strength and cour- My family and I were incredibly to step up. All of us. equal, so why age for her to make this choice, and proud. And we all continue to support My second reason is because she had to decide that her relation- her as she happily continues to prac- people can raise money to build don’t we all ship with God was more important tice her religion every single day. the shelters. We can do fundrais- have a home? than the judgment of others. Shaylyn Kelly is an eighth-grader at ers through schools, and set up We have to Though it took time, Maya’s Cape Cod Lighthouse Charter School, lemonade stands. commitment to her faith eventually Harwich. Just think — there are tons of do some- ways to raise money. thing about Also, raising money for homeless shelters can spark ideas to solve it ... everyone more problems. I think this can deserves a definitely make people happy. home.” So I know you’re probably think- ing: It’s too much money and it “ takes space from the environment. Winning Words But don’t worry. I have solutions. First of all, we can raise money OPINION to build the shelters. We can set up fundraisers. Scared. But one emotion homeless “Even I, at only 11 years old, know that nothing in life is for sure. Second, it’s worth that money, in order to give people a home. people don’t feel is happy. The last chocolate-covered strawberry that you announced to Third, we can demolish buildings A lot of them don’t have families, your whole entire family that it was yours, and placed in the we don’t use and build a homeless and the ones who do? The parents shelter in their place. can’t take care of the children. Help fridge in a container that says your name on it in bold, black That way, we can save some them. They need a home. sharpie, that you believed would be safe from everyone, it was space for the wildlife and nature. I There are shelters in America, but what about other countries? All not safe for long.” just solved your problem! Help these people. What if it those people. Homeless. I hope you were you? Homeless people don’t take this seriously. We need to help. —Sloane Contrino, Grade 5, Barnstable United Elementary School, Marstons Mills have a home like you and me. All of us. How would you feel if you were Amanda Mulligan is a fifth-grader living on the streets? Sad. Alone. at Oak Ridge School, Sandwich. Classroom Times | Tuesday, April 4, 2017 | 19

OPINION Captivity days must end for orcas

By Anna Cannistraro While the animals seemed well and wealth. GRADES 9-12 cared for and the workers loved Several trainers have been killed have been obsessed with orca them, it still doesn’t make it right. by orca whales, but wouldn’t you be whales since third grade. One One reason keeping orcas in cap- mad if you were confined and taken I of my dreams since then was to tivity is extremely cruel is that they away from your family? meet Shamu and watch him and his are social, and typically travel in They are killer whales, not cute friends in shows at SeaWorld. groups of 50. little stuffed animals. The ocean is This summer that dream came At SeaWorld, they swim around a where they belong. true. Seeing the orca whales up tiny pool and travel in packs of three This goes for zoos and aquariums, close was a once-in-a-lifetime or four. Experts agree this is very too, unless they are used for rescue experience. unhealthy for them. reasons only. They are one of the most beautiful According to an article on CNN I am a lover of all animals, but creatures ever. It’s breathtaking to by the National Oceanic and Atmo- especially orcas. I don’t think it’s watch. spheric Administration, orca whales right for them to be held hostage, no However, despite how beautiful easily travel more than 100 miles matter what the cause. the whales were, it was somewhat daily. It might seem different because it is with humans. The bottom line is depressing to see. Keeping them in their pool is like they’re animals, but it’s not . Just that it’s not right on any level, or by No matter how great the show students being held captive in the imagine yourself being held hostage any standard. was, it is not right to keep an animal classroom for their entire lives. to show off one of your skills, such as Anna Cannistraro is a sixth-grader captive or take them away from their And this is all just to show off their soccer. at Quashnet Elementary School, homes. tricks for somebody else’s pleasure It’s no different with animals than Mashpee. 20 | Tuesday, April 4, 2017 | Classroom Times

OPINION Women’s rights are human rights GRADES 4-6

By Emma Abramson the Golden Rule, “Do unto others as participants will forever be a part of you would have them do unto you.” an important date in history. am too young to vote but defi- Usually when one breaks the Women have been making a stand nitely old enough to follow this Golden Rule, a reaction will occur. all over the world. In European I past year’s presidential elec- In this case, Donald Trump’s words cities, including Berlin, Paris, Rome, tion. The more I became engaged in and actions triggered about 500,000 London and Amsterdam, there were the political events, the more I came women to march in Washington, hundreds of thousands of partici- to believe that a president should D.C., while millions more marched pants. Residents from Cape Cod also bring peace before chaos. across the world. During the protests took part in the March on Washing- disrespectfully and unequal to men. Watching the debates and listen- there were motivational speakers, ton. Karen Jones was quoted in the If that happens, we will be going ing to Donald Trump say demeaning chants and people of all ages. Sandwich Enterprise saying, “This back to before 1920 when women remarks about women, disabled One marcher, Myles Pellegrini, is what America looks like. Peace- were not allowed to vote. people and immigrants motivated was quoted in the Cape Cod Times ful, polite and compassionate people The principal purpose of this cam- me to go to the voting booth with my saying, “We’re hoping to raise coming together to support each paign is to remind everyone that our mother. awareness of gender discrepancies other.” I learn about those important voices are strong and will be heard. On Jan. 21, the day after the inau- that happen in our society today, qualities every day at school and at Women’s rights are human rights! guration, the Women’s March on and to create a culture of kindness home. Emma Abramson is a sixth-grader Washington happened. I supported and spread love in a time where I do not want to grow up in a at Oak Ridge School, Sandwich. this campaign because I believe in hate is being propagated.” These society where women are treated

OPINIONREVIEWS Every last, honest and beautiful word

By Caroline Conlan GRGRADES 9-129-12 exclusion, Sam feels herself drifting discover the differences between apart from the girls she has always who she has always been and who bsessive compulsive considered her best friends. She she wants to be. disorder, more commonly finds herself alone due to both her This book is a great read for any O known as OCD, is often disorder and a broken friendship. teenager because it deals with many misconceived. She struggles to form healthy common issues and struggles of a Frequently, people claim to have bonds and is constantly falling back typical high school girl. this disorder solely because they to her obsessive behaviors, such as Samantha’s daily life involves prefer to be organized and have checking everything so it ends in her conflicts that people can relate to everything perfectly clean. This is favorite number, 3. and connect to their own life. Stone not an accurate diagnosis. OCD is After stumbling upon a hidden creates a character that is not only characterized by obsessive thoughts room that becomes The Poet’s relatable but real. and irrational fears that become Corner a couple days a week during The qualities of OCD and the uncontrollable behaviors. lunch, Samantha finds an eclectic resulting behaviors are amplified In “Every Last Word,” Tamara group of other students who she in Samantha to accurately display Ireland Stone accurately depicts a As the summer comes to an end, would have otherwise never gotten a person with this disorder. Stone girl suffering from OCD. The story Sam knows her summer-self will be to know. She instantly forms bonds brings up the difficult topic of Stone creates exemplifies ample lost as the popular, school Samantha with members Caroline and AJ. mental illness and its treatments that research into the misunderstood will return. For as long as she can Samantha begins to tell Caroline are commonly ignored by authors disorder in order to be honest to the remember she has had her friends, everything about herself and her and people in society. character. the “Crazy Eights,” by her side struggles. In Caroline, Samantha “Every Last Word” by Tamara Samantha McAllister, the protag- throughout her life. sees every quality that she wishes to Ireland Stone is both an informative onist, is a high-school girl battling Though they are more of the mean be. While in AJ, Sam finds a love that and relatable novel that you won’t be her OCD-related obsessions in daily girl clique of the school, outsiders she has never experienced before able to put down as you are caught life. Aside from her OCD, Saman- view them of having everything they that proves to provide an emotional up in Sam’s journey of finding her tha deals with the dramas — friend could ever want. relief from all of her stress. true self. groups, boyfriends, and self-iden- But Sam’s life is far from perfect. Samantha is taken on a new jour- Caroline Conlan is an 11th-grader tity — that face all high-schoolers. After many incidents of betrayal and ney, led by mysterious Caroline, to at Sandwich High School. Classroom Times | Tuesday, April 4, 2017 | 21

OPINIONREVIEWS Album Review: Chance the Rapper’s ‘Coloring Book’

Dakota Lopes GRADES 9-12 a metaphor that his childhood inno- Chana” also follows this trend in hance the Rapper wasn’t cence was cut short by the illegal his own work, hinting black culture, afraid to color outside the actions happening all around him. pride, and history all throughout C lines in his latest mixtape The album offers unique personal “Coloring Book.” “Coloring Book.” insight into Chance’s, allowing In the song “Blessings,” Chance The Chi-Town native has shown the listener to become aware of his sings “Jesus’ black life ain’t matter, musical mastery in 14 tracks that personal journey and realize the I know, I talked to His daddy”. blend black gospel and hip-hop, a hardships that come whilst living in This line speaks satirically on how mixture that has awarded him seven the inner cities. many people believe that Jesus was Grammy nominations. Part of his personal journey white, and the Black Lives Matter “Coloring Book,” even consider- includes his decision to remain movement. ing it is officially a mixtape, has been without a label for the entirety of his On the song “How Great” Chano thought by many, myself included, to music career. Chance has decided to also outlines slave historic slave be the greatest album of 2016. Chance, choose artistic freedom over large rebellions “Hosanna Santa invoked seemingly assisted by God himself, The lines “First day, ‘brothers’ sums of money, and even gives all and woke up slaves from Southamp- guides us through a testament of his shootin/Summer school get to losing his music away for free. This artistic ton to Chatham Manor.” life and black history in order to create students/But the CPD gettin new freedom allows Chance to experi- Every theme found in this mas- the best album of 2016. recruitments” speak powerfully ment in ways that we haven’t seen terpiece of a mixtape is convincing Growing up in Chicago, Chance about the state of Chicago as well as before in terms of the genre of the and every melody executes on a level witnessed his fair share of drugs, the conflict the community had with album. very rarely seen before, ultimately gang violence and the destruction the police. Black pride has been a recurring convincing me and a large percent- of his own childhood innocence. Continuing with the same mes- theme throughout 2016, with albums age of the albums listeners that this He writes about these experiences sage, he cries out in another line “We “4 Your Eyez Only” by J.Cole and is an amazing piece and will surely on the track “Summer Friends,” were still catching lightning bugs/ “Awaken, My Love!” by Childish stand the test of time, even in a con- describing the murders of his friends When the plague hit the backyard/ Gambino detailing the mistreatment stantly evolving genre of music. from gang violence, but still trying to Had to come in at dark because the of African Americans in American Dakota Lopes is an 11th-grader at remain childlike and immature. big shawtys act hard,” again creating society and modem culture. “Lil’ Bourne High School.

‘Tangled’ much more than a Disney princess movie

By Kerry Bresnahan happily-ever-after, but it is so much GRADES 9-12 deeper than that. “ angled” is a Disney First of all, neither main character movie that came out is perfect, and they make a point of Winning “T in 2010. It is about showing it. the kingdom’s princess, Rapunzel, Flynn is a thief after all. And who was captured as a baby and held Rapunzel is an innocent, naive girl Words captive in a tower her whole life. who has never stepped foot outside, REVIEWS A thief, Flynn Rider, stumbles literally. upon her tower as he tries to escape The creators are sending a great capture. message that you don’t have to be “No musical or movie Flynn and Rapunzel strike a deal. perfect to find true love. is attention-grabbing If Flynn brings Rapunzel safely to They also send the fairly unusual good if the ending is see the “floating light” (lanterns) message that you don’t have to that appear every year in her birth- change who you are to be accepted It is after this that they start falling predictable.” day, she will return to him what and loved. deeply in love with each other. he arrived with (the stolen crown). Rapunzel has lived in isolation her The movie also has an amazing —Kailei Hoehlein, Grade 7, They go on a crazy adventure and entire life, so she doesn’t know how soundtrack and wonderful anima- Falmouth Academy fall in love. to be anyone else, but Flynn hides tion. I thought it was a great movie, It may seem like a typical Disney himself for half the movie. and I would definitely recommend princess movie, but I assure you it is He eventually reveals that his watching it. so much more. It has all the char- real name is Eugene Fitzherbert and Kerry Bresnahan is an 11th-grader acteristics of a classic Disney film, his personality is truly different at St. John Paul II High School, such as adventure, romance, and a than what he has been letting on. Hyannis. 22 | Tuesday, April 4, 2017 | Classroom Times

OPINIONREVIEWS An inconsolable investigation into unfortunate events

By Kai Chen GRADESGRADES 7-8 long time ago I inves- tigated “A Series of A Unfortunate Events” by Lemony Snicket, also known as Daniel Handler. The books follow the woeful life of the three Baudelaire orphans in 13 appalling volumes. HONORABLE MENTION Snicket warns that the books will Photography (Snapshot), be nothing but sorrow and despair. Grades 7-12 I’m sad to say that the books are incredible. Despite the dark story, these CAROLINE LYNCH books are entertaining because grade 9, Handler decides to create Lemony “Interestingly, Sturgis Charter Public School, Snicket, a fictional author with a throughout all Hyannis background and personality. Snicket provides fun commen- the books, every tary such as how “Taking one’s adult is ignorant, chances is like taking a bath...” while the children sometimes you feel nice, “...and sometimes there is something are logical.” terrible lurking around that you cannot see until it is too late, and you can do nothing else but scream and cling to a plastic duck.” noble. They’re like chef’s salads, This series is also full of interest- with good things and bad things ing allusions. One character in the chopped and mixed together in series is Mr. Poe. a vinaigrette of confusion and Mr. Poe has a son named Edgar. conflict.” Needless to say, this is a reference The books also criticize to Edgar Allen Poe. problems in society, like the Another character is Dr. Geor- exploitation of low-wage workers gina Orwell. She is a nod to the and the obsession with fashion and creator of Big Brother, George absurd trends. Orwell. Interestingly, throughout all Lemony also claims to know a the books, every adult is ignorant, man who wrote a poem called “The while the children are logical. Road Less Traveled.” “A Series of Unfortunate Events” He says that this man is probably is phenomenal. The funny narra- HONORABLE MENTION tion, references, and the valuable dead because no one can hear his Photography (Snapshot), lessons make these books special. screams on the road less traveled. grades 4-6 There are more references, and If you haven’t read them yet, they’re like a treasure hunt for you give the grim stories a try. As LIZA PALAZESI to find. Snicket once said “The world is The books give some surpris- quiet here.” grade 5, ingly true morals. Snicket states, Kai Chen is a seventh-grader at Oak Ridge School, Sandwich “People aren’t either wicked or Bourne Middle School. Classroom Times | Tuesday, April 4, 2017 | 23

OPINIONREVIEWS Barbra: The music, ‘Life Uploaded’ the new, memories and magic engrossing YouTuber book By Kailee Pierce By Ella Mae Dixon GRADES 7-8 GRADES 7-8 arbra Streisand’s first ierra Furtado, a lifestyle Tampa performance vlogger with over 2,500,000 B was phenomenal. I was S subscribers, recently pub- fortunate enough to be there and I lished a novel called “Life Uploaded.” came to the conclusion that there In 2016, many books by YouTubers is simply no concert quite as magi- were published, but most books are cal as hers. autobiographies. Sierra Furtado has The lights dimmed and clips of taken it to a whole different level with past performances were projected her realistic fiction. onto the big screen in chrono- This new novel is about Harper logical order, beginning with 1963 Ambrose, a girl who started off like until they reached present day. any other high school student. Harper An incredible orchestra mas- was a shy girl who found the social becoming happy on your own terms, terfully built the tension until media outlet, YouTube, and worked and not letting new fame get to you, the queen herself emerged from hard on her videos. which I think sends a very good mes- backstage. Her unique personality brought sage to young readers and supporters. She appeared like in a dream, but many people to her videos, and she Furtado doesn’t consider herself spoke to the audience as if we were “She started gaining subscribers and views famous. In an interview with hel- close friends, and the gigantic appeared rapidly. Eventually, after she gained logiggles.com she says, “I don’t like crowd became intimate at once. like in a over 2.5 million she started going to the term famous. I have always just Her first vocalization was the parties with famous actors and learn- been me, and try to stay true to that.” charming familiar hum that begins dream, but ing what the social media outlet can She is trying to spread that message her classic “The Way We Were.” spoke to the really do for your life. She was forced through her character, Harper. Barbra’s voice is as fabulously to break out of her shell and talk to This is a great story for young powerful as it was 50 years ago. audience the actors socially. readers who might spend too much What made her show even more as if we Also, she realized YouTube is a full- time on social media because Furtado memorable were the incredible were close time commitment. Between making includes her social media influ- stories and anecdotes she shared the videos and new friends, she had ences inside her astonishing novel. that were enough to fill an entire friends, and to figure out how to balance out her I recommend this for people who evening by themselves. the gigantic school and YouTube life. She needed are trying to make their reading and One story told how she learned crowd to realize who were her true friends fluency better because this book is an to play the guitar for her 1976 and who were just acquaintances. exceptional, quick read and is very drama, “A Star is Born,” but the became Furtado does an awe-inspiring job interesting. scene where she plays got cut. intimate at at creating her story through her char- Kailee Pierce is a seventh-grade at She rolled a clip of the deleted once. “ acter, Harper. The book tells a story of Lawrence School, Falmouth. scene where young Barbra plays her song “Evergreen,” which was just a melody without lyrics at the time, and present-day Barbra began to sing along. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house. The stage was set like a gorgeous English sitting room, graced us with her adorable Coton complete with a settee, an ornate de Tulear dog, Samantha. “ vase filled with roses, and fine At 74 years old, Barbra still has Winning Words china from which Barbra sipped the same eternal charisma that she REVIEWS tea in between songs. had six decades ago, she continues For the remainder of the night, to sell out almost every concert, Barbra sang more of her classics and the trek from Cape Cod to “I believe the moral of the story is to work hard and like “Woman in Love,” “People,” Tampa, Florida, was worth every you will achieve something big.” “Papa Can You Hear Me,” and (a mile. personal favorite) “Don’t Rain on Ella Mae Dixon is an eighth- —Harrison Lauf, Grade 4, St. Pius X School, South Yarmouth My Parade.” grader at Nauset Regional Middle After three encores, Barbra School, Orleans. 24 | Tuesday, April 4, 2017 | Classroom Times

OPINIONREVIEWS Swagtron eases worry over hoverboard danger GRADES 4-6

By Parker Keeffe-Jones GRADESGRADES 4-6 are two gyroscopes located near the wheels. magine you are flying through “A gyroscope is a device that spins your home but your feet are not so rapidly it can keep itself upright I moving. A slow purr is coming while spinning about twice every from the ground and then you feel second around its axis” says Diction- heat crawling up your legs. You look ary.com. So if you make a movement down and your hoverboard is on or shift your body weight, the Swag- fire. You jump off, and the myth of tron will slightly tilt the gyroscopes, exploding hoverboards continues. moving the hoverboard forward. Well now you don’t have to worry The Swagtron motto is “starting an with the new brand of hoverboard, adventure with your feet.” Swagtron. Whether you are buying a This transportation machine has so Christmas or birthday present, this far put an end to the myth. I myself ‘Inside Out and new step in technology is worth the have a Swagtron and I would give it a money. these gadgets is that they have a UL 10 out of 10. My parents’ immediate Back Again’: The first fact you should know is certification. That may not sound like response was no, but I would not leave that these future works of mechanics a lot to you, but that means that they them alone. journey through are expensive. They range from $300 are government approved. Did you They finally caved after some to $500. The inventor of Swagtron know they ran a hoverboard full speed research, and my Christmas was like no (Mark Cuban) made an astonishing for four hours and it did not explode? other. If you are looking for the perfect struggle, $11,000,000. Did you know to keep up Sadly, they are still illegal on planes so present, the Swagtron website should with the demand for hoverboards they you can’t bring them across the ocean. be your next location. triumph produce 2,000 a day! Their self-balancing methods are Parker Keeffe-Jones is a fifth-grader I think the most amazing thing about very smart. Inside the hoverboard there at Orleans Elementary School. By Riley Croteau

nside Out and Back Again” is a book “I about a young girl Enjoy a delicious meal at Moe’s Mexican Grill named Hai. Her story begins in the war-torn city of Saigon during the Vietnam War. By Ava Navarro There are free refills and unlimited In this wonderfully crafted GRADES 4-6 salsa. My dad and mom get the salsa story written by Thanhha Lai, she elcome to Moe’s!” while I go to the drink machine and takes you on a epic and moving the employees say get a sizzling soda overflowing with journey through Hai’s struggles “W right when you ice. and triumphs. walk in and zoom into line. You see When we get back to the table, we Hai has grown up without her the glorious menu of all sorts of dif- sit and I unwrap my first taco from father because he was in the Navy ferent tacos. the tin foil. and was captured by enemy forces In the corner of the colorful menu I take the first bite of the taco before Hai was born. hanging on the wall is the purple kids — a savory, spicy but cool, melted This has made life in Vietnam menu with three choices of crunchy cheese, overflowing, beautiful taco. difficult for Hai and her family. tacos, soft tacos, and a cheese que- I start to crunch the shell, meat, Hai has lost many things in Saigon, sadilla, all with a side of chips and a cheese and lettuce in my mouth. including her best friend, who has kids fountain drink. My mom and dad do the same until fled the country due to the war, You can smell the ground beef, there’s only crumbs in the basket. I but still does not want to leave. chicken and steak. The quesadilla do the same to the second taco. She has a difficult choice to stay bread is steaming in the grill, and the The delicious chips, covered in in Saigon with many dangers or lettuce is getting chopped. salt, with a clump of salsa all ready go to a safe country where she will The ordering bar is clean, and you and get rewards and coupons on to go into a lucky mouth, goes right have to start over with nothing can see where the taco builders get your purchase. Next, you get your into mine. but her family. the food, and what they put on your meal and go to a booth or table. All the chips are gone and out Will she start new in a safe taco. Sometimes the tables are dirty, the door we go, satisfied with our country or stay in Saigon, the only Also, they will put as much meat, and we have to get one of the delicious meal, and we can’t wait to home she has ever known? cheese, lettuce, sauce or anything employees to clean it before we eat. come back to Moe’s Mexican Grill. Read this book to find out! else you desire on your taco. We finally put our food down and Ava Navarro is a sixth-grader Riley Croteau is a fourth-grader As you check out, you can pull out go to the fountain drinks and salsa at St. Francis Xavier Preparatory at Barnstable United Elementary your phone, go into the Moe’s app, table. School, Hyannis. School, Marstons Mills. Classroom Times | Tuesday, April 4, 2017 | 25

HONORABLEE MENTIONN Photographyy (Schoolwork),, grades10-122

NOAHH BUEHLER,, HONORABLE grade 10,, MENTION Falmouthh Photography Academyy (Snapshot), grades 7-12

RAHNE HONORABLE MENTIONN TURLEY, Photography, (Schoolwork),, grade 10, grades 10-122 Sandwich High School HANNAH MARTY,, grade 10, Monomoy Regionall High School, Harwichh 26 | Tuesday, April 4, 2017 | Classroom Times

OPINIONSPORTS Community becomes family in time of deep sorrow

By Amanda Gould GRADESGRADES 99-12 to sing “Happy Birthday” to James. here, being surrounded by people stood alongside many of my I didn’t personally know these boys, who care about you and who love friends from Falmouth High but through all of my friends, I had you. I am beyond grateful that I I School cheering on the Fal- much sorrow for the town and the could experience this type of com- mouth boys hockey team, only I did boys’ families. I have not once felt munity and live so close to them as not realize this game would change more love in a group of people, never a neighbor. I am astonished by their my perspective on my own life. mind teenagers, than when this song strength and their humbleness. It had been roughly seven weeks arose. There were not only tears in Falmouth has shown not only me since two of the most loved boys my friends’ eyes but mine; the love but my school that being together in the town of Falmouth tragically that this town has for each other is as one is the only way to get through died in a car accident. This not only breathtaking. life. The people I have grown close to shook all of Cape Cod but all of New There couldn’t have been one from Falmouth will be in my life for- England, and farther on. single person in that arena who ever, and I cannot thank God enough I have watched as my friends’ wasn’t feeling the whole community for putting them in my life. hearts break and still struggle to all of the men and women in our coming together for these boys. The So, thank you to the town of repair; trying to cope with the loss of military. There were two jerseys emotion, as the Falmouth hockey Falmouth for giving everyone the their close friends has been hard for in camouflage hung up behind the team made it known to point up to correct insight to life and for show- everyone to see and be involved in. bench, 10 and 19, in honor of Owen the crowd as the song was sung, was ing us that love within communities The game I attended was against Higgins and James Lavin. even shown during one of their big- makes you a family, and families stay Barnstable High School, a longtime This matchup was on James gest games. together until the end. rival. Camouflage jerseys were worn Lavin’s birthday, and as the rivalry In a world full of hatred, you must Amanda Gould is an 11th-grader at by the Falmouth team to support was proceeding, the crowd started not forget all the love that is still St. John Paul II High School, Hyannis.

A tough defeat provides opportunity to improve

By Olivia Bengtson the start of the game. I walked onto GRADES 9-12 the court, feeling self-conscious in the ailure is not about the spacious gym of the opposing team. simple, hard-to-swallow Tip-off was ready and this would be the F fact that you have failed. It last moment of hope I would feel for the rest of the game. Winning“ is about the opportunity to improve and become better in a way that was We quickly fell behind. The Voc- not possible before. My team learned Tech Bears scored the first basket, and Words that the hard way. the one after that, and the one after It was not an NBA game or even a that. It became harder and harder to SPORTS college game for that matter. In fact, it gain possession of the ball and make a was a high school girls basketball game. play. Every possession for them meant “I always like to play a basket, while our possessions ended But it was one of the most important with my teammates learning experiences of my high school in turnovers, which would shortly be career, even though it did not end as converted into points for the Voc-Tech because they always I expected. I was a starting guard on prediction of what would happen when Bears. My teammates became frus- have my back, and I will we faced off in a win-or-go-home trated, and the game spiraled out of the varsity team; we had worked all defi nnitelyitely wworkork aass hardhard season to return to the playoffs, after game later in the season. our control. The game ended after an losing in the second round the previous Warmups began and ended, but- exhausting match of chasing the oppos- and have their back.” year. This was the first season I had the terflies in my stomach throughout the ing team back and forth as they passed, short time. I kept glancing over to the opportunity to start and make major shot and dribbled around our defense. —Angelina Theriault, Grade other side of the court, judging the contributions to the team. We left the gym tired, defeated and 5, St. Pius X School, South talent on the other team and whether My goal from the beginning was to disappointed in our performance. Yarmouth beat New Bedford Voc-Tech, which I would be able to defend the oppos- It was clear we were stunned by our had crushed us the year before, and it ing players. Starting rosters were defeat. Through this failure we became was finally time. New Bedford was the announced over the loudspeaker, and better players, and although I was best team in our division. It had beaten I grasped my teammates’ hands as we upset over our loss, it made me work us multiple years in a row, stealing our stood in the middle of the court, listen- harder to strive for different goals opportunity to advance and crushing ing to the national anthem. Finally, against other teams. our hopes of becoming state champs. the referee blew the whistle, signaling Olivia Bengtson is a 12th-grader at This was our in-season practice, a the players to take their positions for St. Johnohn PaulPaul II High School, Hyannis. Classroom Times | Tuesday, April 4, 2017 | 27

OPINIONSPORTS Life, as in football, often comes down to a matter of inches

By Matt Serdy GRADES 9-12 stretch of unanswered points scored It’s moments like this in which by the Patriots, Edelman’s catch we look to people like Edelman for ootball is a game of being the ultimate moment in the inspiration. Drafted in the last round inches.” This famous Falcon’s demise. The catch came of the 2009 draft, multiple teams “F Vince Lombardi quote inches from hitting the ground, an passed on Edelman before the Patri- was especially relevant in the fourth outcome that would have erased the ots supplied him a home. quarter of Super Bowl LI, a battle significance of the snag completely. Edelman had been a quarterback between the Atlanta Falcons and the Football truly is a game of inches. his whole life but converted to New England Patriots. An emotional Yet the significance of this catch wide receiver once he was drafted. thrill ride, the game ended in an goes further than football. Life is A surplus of doubters surrounded improbable comeback by the Patriots, constantly throwing demanding Edelman early on, but through hard swooping in (pun intended) to steal situations at us. A few inches is the work and perseverance, Edelman the trophy in overtime. difference between life and death. transformed into the elite player he However, this incredible feat Between first and forgotten. Between is today. He made every inch count would not have been achievable Down by eight at this point with a life of happiness or regret. in his journey, with all his tri- had it not been for a circus catch in just under three minutes to play, Again and again, life proves that a few umphs leading up to his Super Bowl the waning moments of the fourth Edelman’s grab gave the Patriots the inches is everything. It also proves moment. So now we are back. quarter. Julian Edelman changed boost they needed to finish out the that hard work and devotion dictate Edelman’s catch, inches from history as we knew it, unbelievably game. Riding the momentum from every inch of your life. You decide hitting the turf, led the Patriots to beating out three Atlanta defend- this catch, the Patriots drove down where that next inch in your life will a title. Football is a game of inches. ers (even going through one’s legs) the field to tie the game up in the final take you. Oftentimes, work ethic is Life is a game of inches. to catch a 23-yard floater thrown by minute, later winning the game in pivotal in whether that inch will make Matt Serdy is an 11th-grader at Tom Brady. overtime. This capped off a 31-point a positive impact on the world. Sandwich High School. 28 | Tuesday, April 4, 2017 | Classroom Times

OPINIONSPORTS Eventing: More Dancing is more than just an activity, it’s a sport than meets the eye By Rachel Mumford GRADES 7-8

By Abby Qvarnstrom oming home, I gently GRADESGRADES 7-8 unwrap the bandages that y heart raced as I listened C cover blisters and healing to Hugo’s hooves pound skin, lovingly coil the ribbons of on the ground. We were worn-out shoes, pack up an old bag M for the next class. galloping, galloping as powerfully as we could. Our movements were in All that for something people call such harmony that it didn’t matter an activity, refusing to acknowledge what was going on around us; it only the strenuous hours of preparation mattered what was straight ahead: that clearly define dancing as a sport. insanity. Dancing is defined as an activity We had to jump a log and drop into involving physical exertion and skill the water and then finish our course. for competition or entertainment. I counted down the strides in my When asked, people explain that a a sport, interaction between dancers is head, and suddenly we dropped in. tired. Instead, you just have to try sport requires hours of practice and required to pull through difficult lifts Hugo, my thoroughbred, and again and again. physical activity. Some people dance and steps. I were training for the cross- As Hugo and I approached the for more hours per week than the Dancing on a regular basis with country portion of our upcoming log, total adrenaline came over typical football, soccer or other sport people in your group is a lot like being competition. me. I was so happy to be gallop- team for their age group. Dancing is part of a team. As they interact, bonds Eventing is like an equestrian ing and Hugo was, too. I counted also a great way of exercising, because form to make a group that some danc- triathlon, made up of dressage, down the strides in my head, and it increases your heart rate and helps ers consider family, stronger than any cross-country and show jumping. suddenly we dropped in and made blood flow throughout your body. field sport team. Dressage is like yoga for the horse; it a splash. I looked around my turn Few people mention that a sport Dancing also activates the brain, as flexes his muscles with each move- to the next jump as Hugo galloped should include some kind of com- you must remember steps and cues to ment. Cross-country requires a out of the water. petition. Some people dance on a form a continuous movement. horse and rider to gallop through a A smile grew across my face; I competitive team, but others dance After a while, the dance move- field with challenging obstacles to was proud of our accomplishment. because they like to. ments create a pattern in your brain overcome. Finally, show jumping There have been (and there will People who dance for entertainment to remember combinations of steps, involves a horse and rider jumping a be) many failures throughout my frequently dance the same amount of which strengthens the dancer’s course of easily knocked down rails. riding career, but my bad days, time per week as competitive dancers, memory. Activities that people cat- This is showing that the horse has falls and losses are a huge part of so there isn’t a difference in ability. egorize as sports keep the brain active enough energy and control after who I am today. Professional dancers, who dance in the same way. cross-country and dressage. I strive to be an emotionally and more than most competitive dance After years of dancing, I believe that In the sport of eventing, you have physically strong rider who will groups, dance for a living. Most people the strenuous physical and mental to be tough and quiet at the same fail but will never fail to get back agree that they do a professional sport, activity required to excel definitely time. into the saddle. even though it isn’t different from qualifies dancing as a sport. You have to have a positive mind- Abby Qvarnstrom is an eighth- people who dance for entertainment. Rachel Mumford is an eighth-grader set. There isn’t room to cry or get grader at Cape Cod Lighthouse Although some people may think at Nauset Regional Middle School, upset if you fall off or if you are too Charter School, Harwich. that you must be on a team to practice Orleans.

HONORABLE MENTION HONORABLE MENTION Photography (Schoolwork), Photography, (Snapshot), grades 7-9 grades 4-6 SAMA ZAMAN, LILLY HADWAY, grade 8, Falmouth Academy grade 5, Oak Ridge School, Sandwich Classroom Times | Tuesday, April 4, 2017 | 29

OPINIONSPORTS Commitment to sports: sacrifi cceses ooff a ggymnastymnast GRADES 7-8 By Meaghan St. Jean With practice schedules so demand- I have learned the hard way that ing, many gymnasts, including myself, gymnasts will never have a pain-free “Hard days are the best days, sometimes have to limit their time body. Something will always be hurt- because that’s when champions are spent with their family. ing, whether it’s your back, knee or made. If you push through those hard Competitive gymnasts are so busy ankle. days, then you can do anything.” practicing at the gym that they hardly Many gymnasts put almost as much — Gabby Douglas have any extra time. A gymnast’s free time into physical therapy and rehab time is usually spent doing homework as they do practice! any competitive gym- or studying. If you are a gymnast, you will always nasts have to make Another sacrifice that gymnasts have callused, ripped and torn hands. sacrifices to reach their make is missing out on social events. On the uneven bars, we do stunts M commitment, I still love it, no matter goals and dreams. Many competitive gymnasts are so involving the rotation of hands. what sacrifices I have to make. Being a competitive gymnast, I dedicated that they can’t skip practice Doing these stunts and rotations Gymnastics is my life, and it always know that some sacrifices are major, for a party or a school dance! causes calluses, which makes your will be. and some minor, depending on the Also, we sometimes have to miss hands hurt. Meaghan St. Jean is an eighth-grader goal the gymnast wants to make. out on sleepovers because of late All in all, gymnastics is an amaz- at St. Pius X School, South Yarmouth. One major sacrifice is family time. practices. ing sport, and even though it is a huge

PARTICIPATING SCHOOLS

Congratulations and thank you to teachers, principals and directors at the The weirdest sport in the world following schools for helping their talented student writers, artists and pho- tographers participate in the Classroom Times contest: By Lulu O’Keefe GRADESGRADES 4-6 ave you ever heard of ele- Barnstable High School, Hyannis phant polo? It started out Barnstable Intermediate School, Hyannis H as a peculiar idea between Barnstable United Elementary School, Marstons Mills two sports fans that evolved as the Bourne High School adventurous sport of elephant polo. Bourne Middle School This sport is just like regular polo Cape Cod Academy, Osterville but is played with two people on Cape Cod Regional Technical High School, Harwich the back of an elephant, while one Cape Cod Lighthouse Charter School, Harwich of them hits a small ball with a long Dennis-Yarmouth Regional High School, South Yarmouth stick that has a mallet on the end of Eastham Elementary School it. It is played in remote areas such Falmouth Academy as Nepal, Sri Lanka, Rajasthan and Falmouth High School Thailand. The elephants are steered The Laurel School, Brewster by people called mahouts, while the Polo Tournament is played every Lawrence School, Falmouth second players tell them where to go year in November. Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School, Oak Bluffs and hit the ball. People from all over the world Mashpee Middle-High School Elephant polo was created in come to the tournament. Five to Mattacheese Middle School, West Yarmouth Meghauli, Nepal. The first elephant eight teams from all over the world Monomoy Regional High School, Harwich polo games were played with a compete. The tournament is a good Nantucket High School soccer ball. These were quickly way to help with elephant conser- Nauset Regional High School, Eastham changed to standard polo balls after vation because it raises money to Nauset Regional Middle School, Orleans it was realized the elephants liked to save the elephants. It is also fun and Oak Ridge School, Sandwich stomp on and pop the soccer balls. entertaining for the people of Nepal. Orleans Elementary School Some players train by sitting The famous tournament in Thai- Cyrus Peirce Middle School, Nantucket on top of a slow-moving jeep and land is the King’s Cup and it raises Quashnet Elementary School, Mashpee swinging at a ball using the polo millions of dollars for conservation Riverview School, East Sandwich stick or by swinging a golf club and for people, too. Sandwich High School one-handed through the water in a Elephants are used in animal ther- Sandwich STEM Academy swimming pool to strengthen their apy for children with autism. I hope St. Francis Xavier Preparatory School, Hyannis wrists. you learned a lot about elephant polo St. John Paul II High School, Hyannis The World Elephant Polo Asso- and if you would like to go to one St. Pius X School, South Yarmouth ciation was established in 1982 and of these countries and see the polo Sturgis Charter Public School, Hyannis is located at the Tiger Tops Jungle match you will have fun while help- Trinity Christian Academy of Cape Cod, Hyannis Lodge in the Royal Chitwan National ing people and the elephants. Upper Cape Cod Regional Technical School, Bourne Park in Nepal. Lulu O’Keefe is a fifth-grader at St. West Tisbury School This is where the World Elephant Pius X School, South Yarmouth. Nathaniel H. Wixon Innovation School, South Dennis 30 | Tuesday, April 4, 2017 | Classroom Times

OPINIONSPORTS Basketball is about mentality, Keep calm and play ball morality and physicality By Julia Abercrombie GRADES 4-6 By Jake Ubertaccio GRADES 4-6 ’m on the St. Pius X middle school girls basketball team. play basketball for the JV boys Basketball is my favorite team at St. Francis Xavier I sport. There are a lot of benefits of I Preparatory School in Hyannis. playing on any sports team. Our team has room to improve, but First of all, it raises kids’ confi- winning is not exactly what the game dence. Before kids join a basketball of basketball is about at the fifth- or sports team, they could think and sixth-grade level. they are an outsider. When you join The game of basketball is about three a team, you aren’t alone. You play characteristics. as one, you win as one and you lose My mentality has changed since I as one. As many teachers and adults started playing basketball. I look at say, “There is no I in team.” I believe you can call up your teammates and the world in a way as if everyone has that all the way. talk to them about the hardships you this special talent even if they look like Another benefit to playing on a have been experiencing. they’d have a completely different skill sports team is people become more players light high fives, fist bumps or Many athletes perform better set. You can’t tell if someone is good at social. When you play as a team, pats on the back on the way down to academically when they are playing something by their cover. there are going to be kids who are the other side of the court. sports, according to MUHealth.org. Basketball relates to this because older or younger than you. Physicality is a very important piece Playing a sport requires a lot of time when you first step on the court and You get a confidence boost from to becoming a good basketball player. and energy. you’re looking at the starting five for that alone, because talking and You need to make sure before games Some may think this would the other team, you can’t tell which being with your teammates is good and practices you stretch. distract students and athletes from players look the stars or just the role for your social life. Sports aren’t just Stretching gives you a less likely schoolwork. However, that isn’t players. about fun, though. When you get chance of pulling a muscle, which hurts true. Sports require memorization, In my opinion I think that’s a very out onto the court or field you play and can become a very serious injury. attention and learning skills that good way to look at the world, for you your hardest with the people you Before practices you should also run can help with classwork. Also, the don’t want to be judgmental about how love playing with. laps, which helps your muscles become determination and teamwork skills someone looks without knowing what Sports also provide a health looser and gives you more control over can be used in the classroom. they’re good at. benefit. Running around is good for them. So when you think about it, kids Morality is an important part of your heart. It helps you stay fit, and You need to learn this stuff because should be encouraged to do sports! It basketball. Basketball has taught me to when you are in good shape, you feel it is important if you want to become a benefits their health, confidence and have sportsmanship, which is manners good about yourself. professional athlete. academics. Maybe this will encour- in the sports world. Also, exercising is a natural way to These have helped me not just age you to get involved with sports! When you win a game it’s not against relieve stress. If you are focused on a become an athlete but a better person. Your school team could need you. the law to be excited and celebrate, but sport, then you won’t be so wor- Jake Ubertaccio is a sixth-grader at Julia Abercrombie is a sixth- you shouldn’t be overzealous about ried about anything else. Another St. Francis Xavier Preparatory School, grader at St. Pius X School, South it. My motto is when you score, the benefit is when you are stressed, most you can celebrate is by giving the Hyannis. Yarmouth.

PHOTOGRAPHY WINNERS

SNAPSHOT, GRADES 7-12 SNAPSHOT, GRADES 4-6 SCHOOLWORK, GRADES 7-9 SCHOOLWORK, GRADES 10-12 FIRST PLACE: FIRST PLACE: FIRST PLACE: FIRST PLACE: KYLIE HATHAWAY IZZY GHERARDI ANNABELLE CUTRER, JACK HINSON, Grade 12 grade 6, St. Francis Xavier grade 9, Martha’s Vineyard grade 10, Nantucket Martha’s Vineyard Regional Preparatory School, Hyannis Regional High School, Oak Bluffs High School High School, Oak Bluffs Classroom Times | Tuesday, April 4, 2017 | 31

WINNERS News/Features Reviews Photography GRADES 4-6 GRADES 4-6 SNAPSHOT SCHOOLWORK First place: Bailey Hewson, grade 6, St. First place: Parker Keeffe-Jones, grade 5, GRADES 4-6 GRADES 7-9 Francis Xavier Preparatory School, Orleans Elementary School First place: Izzy Gherardi, grade 6, St. First place: Annabelle Cutrer, grade Hyannis Second place: Ava Navarro, grade 6, St. Francis Xavier Preparatory School, 9, Martha’s Vineyard Regional High Second place: Roisin O'Brien, grade 6, St. Francis Xavier Preparatory School, Hyannis School, Oak Bluffs Pius X School, South Yarmouth Hyannis Second place: Dylan Oakley, grade 6, Second place: Brianna Brann, grade 9, Third place: Ella Keene, grade 6, West Third place: Riley Croteau, grade 4, Quashnet Elementary School, Mashpee Barnstable High School, Hyannis Tisbury School Barnstable United Elementary School, Third place: Mikaylah Teibel, grade 5, Oak Third place: Alice Murphy, grade 7, St. Fran- Marstons Mills Ridge School, Sandwich cis Xavier Preparatory School, Hyannis GRADES 7-8 First place: Kyleigh Macedo, grade GRADES 7-8 GRADES 7-12 GRADES 10-12 8, Monomoy Regional High School, First place: Kai Chen, grade 7, Bourne First place: Kylie Hathaway, grade First place: Jack Hinson, grade 10, Nan- Harwich Middle School 12, Martha’s Vineyard Regional High tucket High School Second place: Viveca Stucke, grade 7, Second place: Anne Needel, grade 8, School, Oak Bluffs Second place: Colin Henke, grade 10, Mar- Bourne Middle School Nauset Regional Middle School, Orleans Second place: Abby Jones, grade 7, Cyrus tha’s Vineyard Regional High School, Third place: Lucy Blood, grade 8, Nauset Third place: Kailee Pierce, grade 7, Law- Peirce Middle School, Nantucket Oak Bluffs Regional Middle School, Orleans rence School, Falmouth Third place: Emily Gazzaniga, grade Third place: Rachel Cardillo, grade 9, Martha’s Vineyard Regional High 10, Monomoy Regional High School, GRADES 9-12 GRADES 9-12 School, Oak Bluffs Harwich First place: Leah Hidenfelter, grade 11, First place: Caroline Conlan, grade 11, Bourne High School Sandwich High School Second place: Maya Krieger-DeWitt, Second place: Dakota Lopes, grade 11, grade 12, Nauset Regional High School, Bourne High School CREATE-AN-AD WINNERS Eastham Third place: Kerry Bresnahan, grade 11, Third place: Ben Pickard, grade 12, St. John Paul II High School, Hyannis GRADES 4-6 Nauset Regional High School Create-an-Ad FIRST PLACE: Sports GRADES 4-6 Rosanna Sullivan, Opinion First place: Rosanna Sullivan, grade 5, St. grade 5, GRADES 4-6 Pius X School, South Yarmouth GRADES 4-6 First place: Lulu 0' Keefe, grade 5, St. Pius St. Pius X School, Second place: ChloeChloe CCahoon,ahoon, gradegrade 5,5, OakOak First place: Amanda Mulligan, grade 5, X School, South Yarmouth South Yarmouth Ridge School, Sandwich Oak Ridge School, Sandwich Second place: Jake Ubertaccio, grade 6, Third place: JuliaJulia DuDunton,nton, ggraderade 44,, SSt.t. PiPiusus Second place: Anna Cannistraro, grade 6, St. Francis Xavier Preparatory School, X School, South Yarmouth Quashnet Elementary School, Mashpee Hyannis Third place: Emma Abramson, grade 6, Third place: Julia Abercrombie, grade 6, GRADES 7-8 Oak Ridge School, Sandwich St. Pius X School, South Yarmouth First place: Andrew Juan, grade 8, St. GRADES 7-8 Francis Xavier Preparatory School, GRADES 7-8 GRADES 7-8 FIRST PLACE: Hyannis First place: Brianna Johnson, grade 8, St. First place: Abby Qvarnstrom, grade 8, Second place: Angel Lawrence, grade 8, Andrew Juan, Pius X School, South Yarmouth Cape Cod Lighthouse Charter School, Nauset Regional Middle School, Orleans grade 8, St. Second place: Sam Knight, grade 8, Cape Harwich Third place: Brianna Johnson, grade 8, St. Francis Xavier Cod Lighthouse Charter School, Harwich Second place: Rachel Mumford, grade 8, Pius X School, South Yarmouth Preparatory Third place: Shaylyn Kelly, grade 8, Cape Nauset Regional Middle School, Orleans School, Hyannis Cod Lighthouse Charter School, Harwich Third place: Meaghan St. Jean, grade 8, GRADES 9-12 St. Pius X School, South Yarmouth First place: Benjamin Cote, grade 11, St. GRADES 9-12 John Paul II High School, Hyannis First place: Whitney Meritus, grade 9, GRADES 9-12 Second place: Nicholas Glaser, Sturgis Charter Public School, Hyannis First place: Amanda Gould, grade 11, St. grade 12, St. John Paul II High Second place: Tim Cejka, grade 12, Fal- John Paul II High School, Hyannis GRADES 9-12 School, Hyannis mouth Academy Second place: Olivia Bengtson, grade 12, FIRST PLACE: Third place: Kyle Frazee, grade 12, Third place: Jacob Potts, grade 12, Barn- St. John Paul II High School, Hyannis Benjamin Cote, grade Nantucket High School stable High School, Hyannis Third place: Matt Serdy, grade 10, Sand- 11, St. John Paul II wich High School High School, Hyannis 32 | Tuesday, April 4, 2017 | Classroom Times