Created By

Avon School’s Grades 5 & 6

Writing Enrichment

Volume III

Issue III

Serendipity! Literary Magazine!Literary Magazine!Literary Magazine!Literary Magazine!

Table of ContentsTable of ContentsTable of Contents

Cover Page….…………………………………….....page 1

Table of Contents…………..…………………..page 2

Favorite Childhood Books…………………….pages 3-5

Reviews…………………………………………………...pages 6-9

Story Time……………………………………......pages 10—13

Poems……………………………………...….......pages 14-17

Recipes…………………………………………………….pages 18– 19

Essays…………………………………………………...pages 20-25

Quotable Quotes………………………………..page 26

Editors - Caroline Greeley and Ellie Farrington

Co Editor - Ally Vernaglia, Shawn Saulys Writers - Caroline Greeley, Ellie Farrington, Shawn Saulys, Ally Vernaglia, Indigo Southard, Karly Nolan Erin Weber, Corbin Nelson, and Lili Krupinski

Our Favorite Childhood Books

The Lorax

By Dr. Seuss

Review by Indigo Southard

When I was really little, my most people in my family would read to me,

but the problem is, I don’t really like reading. But, I do have a favorite

book, called “The Lorax” By Dr. Seuss, one of my favorite writers. So, a

boy (The narrator) is traveling to a desolate part of the world and is

told the story when the land was beautiful then turned ugly. Here’s how:

when the Once-Ler come to chop down all the Truffula trees to turn

them into “Thneeds” (Apparently things everyone needs) it turns bad,

but the lorax, (That orange thing with a mustache) tries to speak for the

trees. The sad thing is he kinda fails and all the trees are cut down. I

think it is suppose to resemble how people destroyed forest to make pa-

per and build factories and malls, and how those parts of the land are

ulgy. I really love the book because it has nice illustrations and is a

I Love You Like Crazy Cakes

By Rose Lewis Review by Ellie Farrington

“I Love You Like Crazy Cakes,” my mom used to say to me from

the book of the same name. It just seems to be stuck in my mind now. It

is written by Rose Lewis.

Every time my mom and I read it together she “has a moment!”

We say that every time my mom tears up. It’s kind of funny. I love this

book because it’s similar to things about me. My mom used to substitute

words to fit my adoption like instead of China she would say Korea. It

always made me feel so important! I wanted her to read it over and over

again. I liked to look at the pictures because the baby kind of looked a

little like me except my mom used to say I was cuter. My favorite part of

this book is when the baby comes into her “new room and smiles as if to

say I’m home.”

I think the book is wonderful and I recommend it for anyone espe-

cially me. In fact, my mom even got it for me so we could connect and

share my story together. Let me say we certainly have connected and

have talked about my adoption many times. This book will be special to

me and I will treasure it forever. I Love You Like Crazy Cakes will always

Mc. Duff’s New Friend

Ally Vernaglia Have you ever read a book that gets you from the start? A book you just want

to read over and over again? A book that you love? Well, I have. My book that I fell

in love with is the picture book, Mc. Duff’s New Friend. I remember reading this

book over and over again until I pretty much knew word for word. This book was a

part of my childhood. Rosemary Wells and Susan Jeffers made this book come to

life!! Once you stop reading you still see the characters playing through your mind.

By the words, the characters, and the wonderful artwork you will fall in love as soon

as you read it.

Mc. Duff’s New Friend is different than most other books. This story is about a

little white dog – Mc. Duff. It’s Christmas Eve and a big snow storm is outside. Sud-

denly, Mc. Duff gets lost and is found in a weird place with a special someone. Once

everyone is back inside they fall asleep. The next morning everyone gets exactly

what they wanted. Especially Mc. Duff!!

My opinion for this book is a very high one. This book is great for the little

children, but gets a kick out of the older kids, too!! So if you want a fun puppy, and a

wonderful story to tell you should get this book. Mc. Duff is a loving pup just waiting

The Seven Silly Eaters By Erin Weber

My mom and I used to have story time when I was little. Right before I

went to bed I’d have some milk and Oreos. Then, I’d brush my teeth and get

in my pajamas. Afterwards, I’d snuggle up in my bed with my mom and each

night she’d read me a story. Now my mom read me a lot of stories. They

were all very good, but one stood out the most.

Like I said, I was little and had an attention span of a fly, but this book

kept me interested and was by far my favorite! The illustrations could tell the

story if they wanted to! Plus, it’s an easy read! It’s called The Seven Silly Eat-

ers, by Mary Ann Hoberman. To be honest, it’s still my favorite book to read!

This book is creative, funny, and even interesting. The Seven Silly Eaters is

for any age. I loved it when I was four and I love it now! Even my mom

loves the book. It’s about a family with seven kids. They all have different

eating habits. One child likes only bread. One kid only likes milk! Now don’t

worry, that’s not all. It has a wonderful story to it. As most people say though,

“You’ll just have to read the book yourself!”

Fox in Socks

By Dr. Seuss

Review by Liliana Krupinski

Going to bed was never a problem for me. No whining or pouting. After a long day of

pre-school or just playing in general, I was always wiped out. I loved my bed time, getting

snug in blankets and stuffed animals. But those aren’t even close to what I really loved. One

word… story time!

You know, I asked for a lot of books. Where the Wild Things are, and There’s a wocket

in my Pocket, and Little Bear, and SO much more. But, there is one that got me interested and

“pulled in” every time. That was Fox in Sox. The best Dr. Seuss book of all time. Just in my

opinion.

When my dad read it to me, he made silly voices for the characters’. Both my mom and

dad struggled with the quick, impossible tough twisters. My favorite was the last, biggest, and

hardest. The one that even now, I fail at saying and Cleary.

Nothing has changed ever since I was little. Sometimes today, I take the book off of our big

bookshelf. Then I attempt to say them all aloud.

My younger siblings sometimes stop their playing and ask me to start from the beginning. I

guess it’s my turn to be the reader. It’s enjoyable to see the little ones laughing when I mess up.

I laugh to.

You probably know that my parents don’t read to me anymore. No matter. I can just lis-

ten to my Fox in Sox when they read Velia and Vincent their bed time stories. Maybe they like

Fox in Sox as much as I do. Dr. Seuss, I think, one of the best children’s book authors. It’s hard

to pick my favorite. Even though no book will ever take the place of Fox in Sox.

Magic Tree House Night of the Ninjas By Mary Pope Osborne

Review by Shawn Saulys

I have read many books, but the book that got me started on reading

was Magic Tree House Night of the Ninjas which was written by Mary

Pope Osborne. If I did not read that book then I probably would not love

reading as much. All the action and adventure really got me into it. I re-

member finishing this book in the hallway in front of my room around

midnight. It felt so good and made me so happy to finish my first book. It

was awesome! Now, whenever I finish a book it, makes think about that

night when I finished my first book-a book I loved.

Mars 2112

By Caroline Greeley and Ellie Farrington Blast off in 5, 4, 3, 2, 1! I feel a sudden commotion. Oh wait that’s just the simula-

tor at Mars 2112, a dining place where costumers agree to have the time of their lives as

the location makes you feel like your on Mars! You take a simulator ride where you sit

down and watch the screen that takes you through planets and meteors until you reach

Mars. Aliens walk around all over, take pictures, give hugs, play games, and make your

surrounding even more Mars like. Be careful on the simulator you may become sick.

When you reach your destination you enter a tunnel made of red rock. It looks like a mine

on Mars. In the rocks there are big clear windows on the sides where occasionally you can

see aliens dancing. The experience is exhilarating and a journey you won’t forget! As you

enter the dining area you are approached by aliens who show you your awaited table.

When you look on the menu you will find common things like spaghetti, cheeseburgers,

etc except they will have Martian names. You will also find vegetarian dishes. I hate to be

such a downer but I do not recommend the food. It is never cooked just right and they

don’t do the best job selecting ingredients. Also be careful when you order, the Martian

waiters and waitresses have out-of-this-world names! While you eat you get to listen to

odd techno music. When you finish eating you get the privilege of going to the space ori-

ented game room. If you’re lucky you will run into the queen alien. On your way out be

sure to stop in the expensive gift shop that sells fun alien attire and toys. Our overall re-

view is to go there for the thrilling experience and not for a great meal. This is Caroline

and Ellie signing off from Mars 2112!

Restaurant Reviews

Avon Hometown Deli - A Review

By Ellie Farrington

First, let me say that I like all kinds of food and all kinds of restaurants or in this case, delicatessens! I’m

telling you this just in case you are a picky eater and enjoy only certain things.

The Avon Hometown Deli is located at 410 Main Street in Avon by the Sea, New Jersey. Avon’s so small

that if you drive along Main Street, you’re bound to find it. If you live in Avon, the drive is not far at all. In fact,

some people might prefer to walk or ride a bike. This is a good idea because the parking is very limited. Main

Street is very busy and that’s your only parking option. Since it’s a deli, you don’t have to make reservations in

advance, and you almost never have to wait. The hours of operation are as follows: Monday-Friday 8am to 5pm;

Saturday 8am to 4pm; Sunday 8am to 2pm.

The venue is small but very café-like. It’s a calm and quiet atmosphere. Everyone is welcome, including

kids! The Avon Hometown Deli is very neat and well lit but not fancy. You can wear almost anything- however

shoes and shirts are required.

The menu is limited but great for a quick bite. They serve breakfast, lunch, salads and some desserts. For

breakfast they have the usual: eggs, omelets, French toast, and pancakes. My dad suggests the Western Omelet

because it’s tingling with flavor, with good spices and it’s just plain delicious. For lunch, they have salads,

sandwiches, subs, burgers, and dogs. They also have really good French fries! They’re hot, crispy, and cooked to

perfection. I also recommend the subs because they are AMAZING! I personalized a sub to my liking, and it was

prepared perfectly. The meat was fresh and sliced nice and thin, just the way I like it! My sub was so good I

almost ate the whole thing, and when I took that first bite I felt like I was on a cloud! So anyone who likes subs-

this is the place for you!

For dessert, they have ice cream, milkshakes, smoothies, and candy. They have a nice variety of basic fla-

vors. Their milkshakes are flavorful but nothing special. There are not many vegetarian dishes, except the veggie

sub. The deli also lacks kid or senior menus.

The service there is great. The servers are kind, friendly, and polite. There isn’t a long wait, but could have

been a little faster (I was hungry). The prices are a little expensive. “It’s just a little pricey,” said my dad. I agree!

My overall conclusion of the Avon Hometown Deli is that it’s very nice. I had a good experience there, and

I would go back. The only drawbacks are the prices and the lack of parking. I would definitely recommend this for

a nice snack. Bon Appetite!

Book Reviews The Grand escape

by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor

Reviewed by Corbin Nielsen Outside it’s a beautiful day. A little bee flies from flower to flower. In-

side the nearest house, two tabby cats, Marco and Polo, are resting quietly in

front of the glass window. Polo, the not so intelligent cat, would like to know

his mother; but can only remember something like a soft warm milk fluffy

wiggle purr. Marco, the smart cat, has taught himself to read by using the

newspaper in his litter box. Little did they know that one day, Marco will

plan the greatest escape from the house, only to be hassled by harsh weather,

a mean cat-only club leader, and other challenges yet to be discovered. Will

the cats be tormented to death? Or will they laugh at the word death instead?

One of the best books in a series I’ve read!

My Sister’s Keeper

By Jodi Picoult

Reviewed by Ellie Farrington

My Sister’s Keeper is a wonderful, inspiring story about a girl who is diagnosed

with leukemia at a young age. To keep their daughter alive, her parents had another

child to give her the white blood cells and all the things she needed. Along their cancer

journey they face many problems with both daughters Kate: the cancer child and Anna:

the donor.

The book starts out when Anna goes to a lawyer to sue her parents for the rights

to her own body. The lawyer Campbell Alexander accepts her case. When her mom

finds out that Anna is suing her she freaks out. This lawsuit ends up separating their

family for a period of time. Anna goes to live with her dad at his work; fire department.

While all this is going on Kate is mostly in the hospital and a guardian ad litem comes

to observe what’s going on. She will help make the decision with the judge. In the end,

well you’ll have to read it to figure that out.

I think this book is amazing but if you’re the kind of person who cries in sad

books or movies be ready with a box of tissues. My Sister’s Keeper is a very touching

story that will make you love life the way it is. It is so good that you won’t want to put

it down. I hope you enjoy reading it!!!

“I Fill My Belly at Bing’s Deli”

By Erin Weber When my teacher first told me to write a piece for my school magazine, I immediately thought, “Restaurant

review!” Then, automatically “Bing's Deli” a local town deli, popped into my head! At first I wasn’t really sure why

that came to mind, but when I realized that I’d go there every single day to sample and taste their food, I finally

figured it out. I love this deli so much that I want other people (like you) to love it too! That’s why I’m so excited to

tell you about this wonderful place! But, in order for you to enjoy it as much as I do, I’m just going to have to tell

you all about it!

You may not be familiar with this deli I’m reviewing. It’s not a chain restaurant. In other words: there are

not thousands of them across the country such as McDonalds or Burger King. There’s just the one. It is called

Bing’s Deli!!

“Bing’s Deli is named after the owner “Billy Bing.” You could just call it Bing’s for short. Bing’s also has a

co-owner, Erin Burnes. They are in their twenties and both very nice. The deli is actually built in Avon-By-the-Sea,

New Jersey. It’s in walking distance of the bank, library, school, Municipal building, and even the beach! Plus, it’s

very easy to find. It’s on the corner of Main Street!

The most important thing to know though is how nice the owners are. I introduced them a little bit before,

but that’s not all. They are great with kids. Plus if you get to know Billy well, he jokes around with you. It’s a lot of

fun!

Not only is Bing’s kid-friendly, the dress code is, too! Whether you’re in a bathing suit or a soccer uniform,

it doesn’t matter! You can get service at Bing’s. This is the best when you’re coming from the beach. You also don’t

have to wear shoes. How many food establishments can you say that about? You know what they say: “No shirt, no

shoes,...no problem at Bing’s Deli!”

It all comes down to two things: The prices and the food. I have tried many of their menu items such as

these: Turkey sub, French bread pizza, egg salad sandwich, fresh-baked cookies, and of course, all of the candy!

They are all delicious! Next are the prices. I’m only ten, so I don’t have a lot of money. At Bing’s Deli, I can get a

drink, pizza, and snack for only $2.50! You’d be rich if you walked in there with only $5.00!

Trust me, you won’t regret walking in. Smelling the freshly cut sandwiches, and seeing all the happy people

will wake up your appetite! I fill my belly at Bing’s deli, and you can, too! Enjoy!

Short Story Time

“On Another Accident” By: Karly Nolan

“Oh, my, goodness!” I cannot believe you think this is my fault!” Alexis angrily screamed at

her sister, “I’m not even the one with your creepy, FAKE magic tricks!” Alexis and her twin,

Sam, were stuck in the middle of a black hole with absolutely no way out.

“Come on, Alexis, Miss “I Know Everything” You figure a way out of here. Like I al-

ways say, ’Anything you want, you can have it with a little bit of magic’,” said Sam; however

she seemed fine, but her eyes were brimmed with doubt and worry. Alexis took Sam’s ad-

vice and snapped her fingers after pled on her hands and knees to go back home. Surpris-

ingly, this worked. The two girls were back in their shared, pig-sty of a bedroom, and it was

already two ‘o ‘clock in the morning, and obviously it was too early to handle this kind of

scene. “Well, that was easy. Now can we please go to sleep?” Alexis whined; unfortunately,

Sam was not ready to put that little episode to bed just yet. She exploded at Alexis, and of

course Alexis just had to join right in, shooting the insults right back at her.

This continued until finally, their mother walked in." What is the meaning of this?”

the girls’ mother said furiously with a hint of curiosity.

“I’ll tell,” Sam said.

“No, I’ll tell you what happened, mom.” Alexis finished. She then, began, “I was

peacefully dozing while Sam was snoring like a dying cow. After what felt like an hour into

dream mode, Sam woke me up. She was like, ‘Hey, hey, wake up. I’ve figured out how to do

a new trick. Isn’t this magic stuff awesome?’ Of course magic is just the opposite of that.

Ever since Sam got that magic set two years ago, all she thinks about magic. I mean its’ not

even real! Or so I thought. Ignoring the obnoxious interruption, I peacefully dozed off into

another wonderfully, deep sleep. Then, all of a sudden, my head banged on the floor and I

woke up in a never ending black hole. The room was vast and the walls had an ugly color.”

Alex wanted to speak, but was cut-off by Sam. “I will tell you the real story, mom.”

Then Sam started from the beginning, once more.

“Well, I was trying to sleep peacefully, but some nights, I don’t even think to bother with the

horrendous snoring coming from that side of the room. I mean, who could sleep? But, any-

way, exactly one hour later, I gently tapped Alexis to tell her about the wonderful trick I

learned. I did this because it could increase her knowledge, not to annoy her. So, I was really

doing her a favor. After that, I continued to practice until I fell asleep on the floor. I dozed

into a wonderfully deep sleep, but then I felt myself falling, but I hadn’t woken up just yet. I

suddenly felt my head BANG against the floor, and we were in a black hole, which doesn’t

make sense because there technically was no floor. Then after trying about a million spells,

guess who saves the day, Alexis! And, well. That brings us up to right about now.”

When Sam was done talking, Alexis just could not control her insults toward Sam. Of

course, Sam had to join right in, and pretty soon, everyone was doing it. Then a small voice

announced, “Mommy, I can tell you what really happened.” It was Jake, their four year old

brother. For the third time someone else told the story. “I had to got, I mean get, some juice,

but when I walked by the bathroom and all of a sudden, I really had to go, but I wanted my

juice box first. Then on my way to the bathroom, I found Sam’s wand on the floor. It had a

pretty light coming from it, so I took it with me. But, on accident, I spilled juice on it. Then,

clean it off, I dropped it in the toilet and swished it around a little. But, on another accident,

I flushed Sam’s wand! This wasn’t very good, so I dashed to the girls’ room, and poof! They

were gone. And that’s all I saw.” Apparently, that was all the explaining their mother

needed. With a look of confusion upon her face, the girls’ mother told them, “Okay, that’s

enough for one night. Let’s just bring this up again in the morning.” This wasn’t exactly sat-

isfactory for the rest of them, but they took it. So, with the problem resolved, Sam, Alexis,

Jake, and their mother went back to bed. And of course that was that, because who know

what tomorrow holds? Apparently, that was all the explaining their mother needed. With a

look of confusion upon her face, the girls’ mother told them, “Okay, that’s enough for one

night. Let’s just bring this up again in the morning.” This wasn’t exactly satisfactory for the

rest of them, but they took it. So, with the problem resolved, Sam, Alexis, Jake, and their

mother went back to bed. And of course that was that, because who know what tomorrow holds?

“Rowing Along”

By Liliana Krupinski

You know that saying “it’s the small things in life that are most extraordinary?’’ Well, That’s

happened to me a lot, but the one time it really stood out to me is when my dad, my sister Velia, and I

went to Shark River Bay. This is when I rowed our small yet strong row boat far and for the first time,

without turning in circles.

It was getting close to night time and I had recently come home from a friends’ house. Earlier

that day, my dad, mom, and three year old brother Vincent went to Shark River Bay. They set up the crab

trap (just for fun), and went on the boat. When I went, we checked the crab trap and there were at

least eight or nine. There were so many! After they all got out of the trap, we decided to stay

longer, and when you’re at a bay, what better way to pass the time than row?

So, we went up the short path to the road where my dad’s big work van was (he is a carpenter). We

got life jackets and ores. Then, we were ready. My dad started us of out into the middle of the bay. Then it

was my turn. (Quick tips for rowing)

Grip the ores firmly

Keep the tips close to your knees

Go a little fast or you’ll keep turning)

I have to say, I rowed for a long time, and I went really far. While I was rowing, the sun started to set.

The most beautiful place to watch a sunset is on the water. So we stayed to watch. The glis-

tening water reflected the setting sun. It seemed as though we were in a perfect place. Never before

have I experience something more glamorous, yet natural in my life.

After it was over, we started to row again. I could hear the water bubbling and moving un-

der my paddles. I knew this moment should be savored. So I stopped to take it all in. Finally, we

docked the boat and went home.

I think the things in life we admire most, is being able to spend time with our family, two

parents or one. When we spend time with them, it really is special. I’m pretty sure a lot of people

feel the same way as I do. Because nothing could matter more.

By Liliana Krupinski

“Gletsher the Ice Dragon” By Indigo Southard

Let me tell you about how the Arctic was created.

One day, before time itself, there lived a dragon named Gletscher. Before the world ex-

isted it was cold, for there was no sun. Since this was his world, he loved it! He loved the cold!

But, when the world was created, the sun warmed the world and the coldness melted into water

and there was so much brightness.

The dragon was so confused and was upset and missed his world. He remembered the

cold air and the shining ice everywhere, and because it was hot to him because he was used to

his cold world. He wanted to make his own place all cold, but everywhere that was close, had

animals and things that would die if they had to live in the cold. He went on a journey to the top

of the Earth to find a place where nothing lived. He had to look everywhere for a place where

there was nothing, but no. He kept looking, and eventually flew into a small dove.

The dove said “What are you?”

Gletscher said “I am an ice dragon looking for a place where nothing lives, for I want to

make a cold place!’’

The bird said that he heard that a place on the top of the Earth was just Ocean and noth-

ing lived there, so the dragon went on for his journey. He came to the top of the world and did-

n’t know what to do.

He cried out “I wish it was just a little colder! He said and he had an idea. He was an Ice-

Dragon! He just had to breathe snow, ice, hail, and frost on everything! He flew up high above

the clouds where it was very hot, he felt like he was not going to make it. He took the last bit of

might to blow tons and tons of ice, frost, and hail, and then he ran out, he started falling down

through the clouds.

He was hoping that his idea worked and that he would fall into a pile of snow. He closed

his eyes. 5,4,3,2,1 and Bam! He hit the pile of snow. He didn’t move for a few seconds, and the

animals began to gather around him but suddenly he instantly regained health and felt better. He

decided to live here forever, and if you go to the arctic and climb the highest glacier you might

catch a glimpse of Gletscher, the ice dragon!

POETRY “Bubbles”

By Ally Vernaglia

Blow, Blow, Blow

Only a little blow

To make a clear

Soap bubble to

Make the bubble show

Now going up, up, up

Way up high

Almost touching the sky

Falling down and down

Halfway to the ground

Then a little pop

And it all stops!

“Float With Me”“Float With Me”“Float With Me”“Float With Me”

By Caroline GreeleyBy Caroline GreeleyBy Caroline GreeleyBy Caroline Greeley

The leaves fly by,The leaves fly by,The leaves fly by,The leaves fly by,

Like birds in the sky.Like birds in the sky.Like birds in the sky.Like birds in the sky.

All their different colors to show,All their different colors to show,All their different colors to show,All their different colors to show,

They don’t know where to go.They don’t know where to go.They don’t know where to go.They don’t know where to go.

They glide along weightless in the They glide along weightless in the They glide along weightless in the They glide along weightless in the

air,air,air,air,

Some even land in my hair.Some even land in my hair.Some even land in my hair.Some even land in my hair.

Some fly away to high to see,Some fly away to high to see,Some fly away to high to see,Some fly away to high to see,

Oh why can’t that be me?Oh why can’t that be me?Oh why can’t that be me?Oh why can’t that be me?

Why can’t I float where there’s no Why can’t I float where there’s no Why can’t I float where there’s no Why can’t I float where there’s no

worry,worry,worry,worry,

And no where to go in a big And no where to go in a big And no where to go in a big And no where to go in a big

hurry?hurry?hurry?hurry?

So why don’t you come with me?So why don’t you come with me?So why don’t you come with me?So why don’t you come with me?

We’ll float over land and sea.We’ll float over land and sea.We’ll float over land and sea.We’ll float over land and sea.

I don’t know how,I don’t know how,I don’t know how,I don’t know how,

But I am going goodbye nowBut I am going goodbye nowBut I am going goodbye nowBut I am going goodbye now.!

“I Can’t Stay Focused” By Erin Weber

I cannot stay focused; it’s hard to write

My brain feels crowded, my brain feels tight

I just can’t work, I don’t know why?

I feel rushed, I’m going to die!!

Why are there so many distractions?

Come on, I have to make good actions!

Tell me why, why can’t I pay attention?

If I don’t finish now I’ll get detention!

My mind is so cluttered; my pencil led is running out

I want to scream, I want to shout!

But maybe, just maybe, if I keep calm,

Everything will go away and nothing will be wrong!

My idea worked, for once finally!

I’m finished, I’m finished, yippee!!!

“Snow!”

By Ellie Farrington

Every time the snow falls down

New Jersey kids of the Avon town

Shout and play with joy and fun

Plenty of snowflakes for everyone!

There are plenty snow angels and snowman galore

Until the girls brothers come run through the door

Crashing and ruining the beautiful white art

Destroying the details and every fine part!

Now you know what happens when

There’s enough snow to build a snow den

Finally the snow starts to melt away

And all the children fade to gray!

“The Beach” By Liliana Krupinski

I have a lot of favorite places.

I see new things and new faces.

One of them is a place with sand.

Come on, you know -it’s a piece of land.

There are rolling waves and clear blue skies,

There are flying seagulls with beady black eyes.

There are lots of people but there’s enough room

And then near by, cars go zoom

It’s ok just take a guess,

Go ahead do your best.

The beach that’s right

And you should know,

This is a place you’d love to go!

“Spring Haikus”

By Shawn Saulys

FLOWERS ARE BLOOMING,

MANY DIFFERENT COLORS,

SO MANY OF THEM.

LITTLE BIRDIES FLY

FLYING, FLYING THROUGH THE SKY

OH HOW DO THEY FLY?

“Ode to NJ Ask” By Ally Vernaglia

Sitting and waiting for the test- I hope I do my very best.

To the teacher I shall go

And figure my way out of this show.

“I feel sick,” I said right away “No really? Why today?” asked Mrs.

Malay.

“Because I have a headache. And my fingernails hurt

every time I shake.

My brain is too tired to work, And my left leg sure does hurt.

My nose is warm, my feet are numb

I have a pain in my left thumb

My temperate is ninety-nine Boy, I sure don’t feel fine!

My hair is turning gray

And I just don’t feel good today.

Plus the NJASK- Yes that is the worst task!”

“Is that what this is about?” she

asked

I had no comment to borrow “ Cause if it is,” she said

“It starts tomorrow.”

“Ode to NJ Ask”

By Caroline Greeley

4 3 2 1 fun! It’s time to smile!

I know I would walk a mile

For a week of school as much fun

as this.

Now that’s a week I would not

miss!

All right -here’s a hint it is a

task.

I’m talking about the good old

NJASK

We work all morning .

We are so far from snoring.

We bite our nailsK,

And nobody fails……I hope.

How could I fail when im waiting

for so much fun?

Oh no! Its Thursday we’re almost

done!

Wait, you think I’m talking about

the test?

No I hate it - it’s such a pest!

I was talking about the

afternoons!

We relax and listen to tunes.

Recipes Chocolate Mint Cookies

By Ally Vernaglia

Have you ever searched for a good recipe to bake? Well after you read this, your

search will be over. After this you will learn how to make one of the best cookies on

earth. Chocolate Mint Cookies. Here’s the directions:

¾ cup butter

1 ½ cups packed brown sugar

2 tablespoons water

2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

2 eggs

2 ½ cups all purpose flour

1 ¼ teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

36 chocolate Andes candies

First to start us off, preheat the oven to 350 degrees. When that’s done, in a

large pan over low heat cook the butter, sugar, and water until the butter is

melted. Add the chocolate chips and stir until partially melted. Then re-

move from the heat and continue to stir until the chocolate is completely

melted. When that is over pour it into a large bowl and let it stay for 10

minutes to cool off just a little. While that’s cooling, at a high speed beat

the eggs , one at a time, into the chocolate mixture. Reduce the speed to low

and add in the dry ingredients beating until blended. Chill dough for 1 hour.

Roll the dough into balls and place on an ungreased cookie sheet about two

inches apart. Bake this for 8-10 minutes. While the cookies are baking, un-

wrap the Andes mint and cut each one in half. When the cookies are done

baking and brought out of the oven, put half of the mints and the top of

each cookie. Let the mint sit for 5 minutes until melted. Then spread the

mint all over the top of the cookie. Put in your freezer for a few minutes.

Hope you enjoy!!

I fell in love with chocolate mint cookies when I was about 9 almost 10. I was

making these with my mom near Christmas, and wanting to taste just one

the whole time. These cookies are now my favorite dessert and a great

treat. I thought making these where a fun experience. Especially licking

the bowl!! I hope you fall in love with the chocolate mint cookies just like I

did!

Hot Chocolate Balls

By Caroline Greeley

1 cup hot chocolate

1 cup instant hot chocolate mix

1 bag large or small marshmallows

First, take 1 marshmallow and dip it in the hot chocolate. Then, quickly coat

it in the dry instant hot chocolate mix. Let it dry for a minute then enjoy. Repeat

with remaining marshmallows

I love this recipe. It is quick and easy. Not to mention delightful. They are

perfect on cold winter nights or on humid hot summer days. You can have them,

basically, on any occasions parties meetings or no reason at all. They are also nice

to decorate cakes, cupcakes, brownies, cookies, or any dessert. You will not find

this recipe anywhere else because I made it up. I know what you are thinking, a

recipe made up by a fifth grader. Disgusting! But it’s not! I can honestly tell you

that you will love it!

Chocolate Chip Cookies

By Shawn Saulys Almost everybody has made cookies at least once in their life. Most of those people just buy

the dough and throw it in the oven. I have a great for you and it’s a lot of fun to make too.

This recipe is also my secret recipe! If you want to know my amazing recipe than read on.

THE DOUGH

When making the dough open up all the ingredients, put them in a large bowl, and turn on

the mixer. After that use the mixer to make all the ingredients into a dough form. Then

when the ingredients are in dough form take the dough and cover a Hershey kiss with the

dough. The Hershey kiss should be inside the dough. If you want to make them colorful

and have even more fun, than get out the food coloring. You can tie-dye or put in any color

you want! How cool is that? My favorite is tie-dye and don’t worry it won’t change the fla-

vor. When making the dough you have to add flour but you DON’T have to put in the wal-

nuts. ( I don’t!)

BAKING THEM

Before you even get out the tray pre-heat the oven to 375 F. That way you can put the

cookies in right away. Now its time to get out your cookie pan. Make sure it is non-stick

when you put on the cookies. When you’ve put the cookies in the oven it’s not hard to tell

when they are done. They should be a light color. If you tie-dye the cookies than its differ-

ent. You take them out when they smell perfect. When you take the cookies out of the oven

you roll them in powdered sugar while they are warm (make sure they end up in ball form).

Then you roll the cookies in the powdered sugar two times --once after they come out of the

oven and once right before you serve them. Since you roll them in the powdered sugar you

might have to color them again. When you eat them it should be a powdery delight for you

and all who enjoy them.

“Who Gets More Attention?”

By Ally Vernaglia

One question that I always wonder is which child gets the most attention? Many

people have many answers. The oldest child might think the youngest child has the most

attention, and the youngest might think the oldest has it. I’m the youngest in my family

and I personally think my brother and I have it pretty good. In other families though,

the children can think that this person gets more attention than they do. Erin Weber

of Avon Elementary School is the youngest person in her family, and she thinks that she

gets the most attention because her oldest brother is never home, and her older

brother is not around as much as she is! Caroline Greeley and Caroline Carter (middle

children) also from Avon, agree with Erin, but they think that it is always the oldest or

the youngest that gets the most attention, never the middle child.

‘’The middle child may not seem to want your attention due to the fact that many

middle children are often more emotionally withdrawn and distant from the rest of the

family than their siblings.’’ Says Scarlett Capelli who writes ways to help families be-

come closer. Many middle children think that they are the ones who get the least at-

tention. Dr. Spock who also writes helpful tips for families says, ‘’ If you fuss over the

oldest because of her great grades and the youngest because she is so adorable, what

does your middle one get noticed for? Take the time to look, really look, at your middle

child. What is it that he does best and makes him unique within your family? Offer him

genuine praise based on his good qualities.’’ And many people who are middle children

think that the youngest child gets the most attention. Caroline Carter says, that being the

middle child, she sees it as the parents always wants to know where the oldest child is, or

who they are hanging out with. Then they care about the youngest because they are always

getting the most attention and mostly everything they want. Where does that put the mid-

dle child? Sadly, this is how most middle children feel.

“Oldest children have mostly been known for being the responsible ones of the

bunch. Even if they have a sibling that is close to them in age, they will always be the old-

est child. And while this has positive attributes, such as the responsible part, it can also

lead to negativities.” Says Kate Beswick, and it is true. Many older children think that

they have the most responsibility, has to be the “Role Model”, but they get the least at-

tention. ”So we are too hard on the oldest child, across the world - we are more likely to

stop their allowances, ground them and generally make them work too hard on school work

or pocket money Saturday jobs, than we would on the next child down and even the next

child after that, in fact, the youngest could set alight to the living room rug and we would

forgive them, but why?” Jake Vernaglia of Avon is the oldest child in his family and he

disagrees with this. ” I like being the oldest” Vernaglia says. “Because you have the most

freedom and I am looked to for advice. I really like it.” We are stone guilty of using our

oldest one, and why? Because the parents use the first born as a punch bag, for want of a

better term - we use them as an example, and a yardstick, to teach the others below

what it means when the parents get angry.

Now, if you’re an only child, life isn’t that bad. Anna Bongiorno of Avon is an

only child and she loves it. “I like being the only child because your parents love you and

its not shared love, and you’re not spoiled like people think you are. It’s nice.” Anna

says. “The way parents teach the first/only child discipline and respect is much how they

will react to situations much later in life. If the child stays an only child, in life the

child will depend on their parents much of their life.” Says eSSORTMENT. Now many

people disagree with this, including Anna. Anna says “I don’t agree with this because

“To Zoo or Not to Zoo”

By Caroline Greeley

We’re finally here! My sister and I rush to the gate with gleaming smiles on

our faces. Is this the way you would start a story of the time your family visited a zoo

or would it go something like this? Our car slowly approached that horrible place

that some call the zoo, though I like to think of it as an animal torture area. People

have many different views on the zoo. Some people think of it as a fun educational

adventure but others view it as a way to torture innocent animals.

Jack Hanna a Director at the Columbus Zoo is a Pro at keeping animals in

zoos. He says, “The boundaries of the “wild” are becoming smaller each day. I

have traveled all over the world, and the only places I consider truly wild are

Antarctica, parts of the Amazon, and some places in Africa. But even in Africa,

the “wild” places tend to be in national parks. Our world’s national parks have

boundaries, but we need to ask ourselves what happens when animals stray

from those boundaries. When animals wander beyond these areas into human

territory, their chances of survival greatly diminish. For instance, right now in

the western United States the wolf population is growing and wolves are ap-

proaching local livestock for their next meal. Since these animals are threaten-

ing the ranchers’ livestock, ranchers are faced with a major problem – shoot

the wolves to protect the livestock or let the wolves attack their livestock.

Outside of the boundaries of protected wildlife areas, animals face many

challenges – traffic/development, hunting, habitat loss, poaching, and so forth.

The “wild” is not necessarily such a wonderful place. And anyone who says oth-

erwise is being naïve.

The P.E.T.A. objects to this quote. They state “Life in captivity is so miserable

that it’s inconceivable that we are “helping” animals by confining them and denying

them everything that comes naturally to them. Even animals born in captivity still

have the innate desire to move about and roam freely—for far greater distances than

zoos can provide—to seek out mates and friends, and to engage in natural behaviors,

like flying, swimming, hunting, climbing, scavenging, and raising families, that aren’t

possible in a zoo.”

There is also the argument of capturing animals. P.E.T.A. gives a wonderful ex-

ample. “Zoos continue to capture animals from the wild to put them on public display.

In 2003, the San Diego Wild Animal Park and Lowry Park Zoo in Tampa, Florida, cap-

tured 11 African elephants, a species designated as threatened, from their natural

habitats in Swaziland. Experts, scientists, and researchers who study elephants in the

wild strongly opposed the capture, stating, “Taking elephants from the wild is not

only traumatic for them, it is also detrimental to their health. ... [We believe the time

has come to consider them as sentient beings and not as so much money on the hoof

to be captured and sold and displayed for our own use.

Several zoos have already recognized that they cannot adequately provide for the

complex needs of elephants, and have made the decision to close their elephant exhib-

its. The Detroit Zoo sent two elephants to a sanctuary because, in the words of the

zoo’s director, “Just as polar bears don’t thrive in hot climates, Asian elephants

should not live in small groups without many acres to roam. They clearly shouldn’t

have to suffer winters of the North.”

Jack Hanna objected to that comment with a response of “The African ele-

phants that came to the San Diego Zoo and the Lowry Park Zoo in 2003 were ele-

phants that had been designated for a culling operation in Swaziland. This means

that wildlife officials in Swaziland had decided that there were too many elephants in

the area for that ecosystem to support, and that some elephants would have to be re-

moved. Instead of being killed, which is what usually happens to elephants desig-

nated for culling, these 11 African elephants not only have continued to thrive at San

Diego and at Lowry Park -- they now have an opportunity to motivate US zoo visitors

to support wildlife conservation. And motivating zoo visitors is something that we

know they will do. Again, as a recent Harris poll pointed out, 95 percent of zoo

visitors felt that seeing an elephant in a zoo helped people learn to appreciate ele-

phants more. Furthermore, 85 percent of the respondents to the same poll felt that

visiting a zoo encouraged people to donate money or time to support wildlife con-

servation projects. Recognizing the important role that they play in inspiring peo-

ple to support wildlife conservation, 61 AZA member zoos in North America have

either recently expanded or have committed to expanding or completely rebuild-

ing their elephant facilities in the near future.

As with any controversial topic –global warming, taxes, poverty – people feel

strongly about the way these issues should be handled and addressed. “Facts” can

back up most arguments and approaches – opinions vary across a long continuum.

Although there are no clear cut answers, it has been my experience that those

working in the zoo community are committed to doing what is best for the animals

and are trying to learn new ways every day to ensure they receive the finest care. “

As you can see there are many views about zoos. After learning this how

will you feel about going to the zoo?

Quotable Quotes “Never be afraid to sit awhile and think."

--Lorraine Hansberry,

American playwright

“Life's like a movie, write your own ending. Keep believing, keep

pretending."

--Jim Henson,

American puppeteer

“It seems that we learn lessons when we least expect them but

always when we need them the most, and, the true gift in these

lessons always lies in the learning process itself."

--Cathy Lee Crosby,

American actress

“Hold fast to dreams, for if dreams die, life is a broken winged

bird that cannot fly."

--Langston Hughes,

American writer

“Animals are such agreeable friends, they ask no questions, they

pass no criticisms."

--George Eliot,

British writer

“Everything's got a moral, if only you can find it."

--Lewis Carroll,

British author