senior scribes
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‘We are the Majority’ Peer Leaders attend Leadership Training, By Molly Hunt
On February 7, 2015 youth from Darke and Shelby County attended a Youth-Led Prevention workshop at Edison Community College in Piqua. Jim Ryan, Ohio certified consultant, led the workshop. The training was organized and sponsored by the Tri-County Board of Recovery and Mental Health Services. Youth teams attending represented We Are the Majority in Darke County, originated by the... read more
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Not an easy choice, By Brittany Ulman, Sophomore Creative Writing Student
Ball State University - Hello, my name is Brittany Ulman, a sophomore Creative Writing student with a minor in Professional Writing and Emerging Media and another in Spanish.  I have contributed to County News Online several times through my column “Just Chirpin’” located in the Youth Section.  In those columns, I discuss all of my personal experiences in college, whether they were... read more
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My summer study abroad, By Brooke E. Robinson, Senior Scribes Scholarship Fund recipient, Versailles High School graduate -- Brooke is studying Strategic Communication in the Scripps School of Journalism at Ohio University. She is minoring in Theatre and specializing in Marketing. She is a 2013 Versailles High School graduate and a SSSF scholarship recipient. On her blog, she writes: "This is not magic. This is the way the world is, only very few people take the time to stop and note it." Her blog... read more
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Tutoring With A Twist, By Kayli Duncan, We Are the Majority Peer Leader
Does your child need after school help? We Are the Majority, a group founded by Recovery and Wellness Centers of Midwest Ohio, is now offering study sessions after school. These study sessions are held for students third through sixth grade at Gateway Youth Programs. Gateway is located at 116 East Third Street in downtown Greenville. Study Sessions begin at approximately 3:45 and end at 5:15... read more 
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The Post: Ohio University… ALiCE program trains students how to react in active-shooter situation, By Brooke Robinson -- Thursday, October 24, 2013 -- Schools throughout the nation train their faculties in proper lockdown protocol in case of an active shooter situation, but according to Ohio University police officer Brandon King, this isn’t enough anymore. The Ohio University Police Department provided an ALiCE training session Thursday night in Bentley Hall 306 at 7 p.m. About... read more
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The Christmas Train, by: Elizabeth Horner
I have a long commute: two subways and a train. Most of the time I don’t mind. The alone time with just my school books practically forces me to study and, as I stand-- bracing my legs against the rocking of the car-- I tell myself that I am helping to make up for the amount of time I spend sitting in a day. And yet, there is one problem with relying on public transportation to get you from Point A to Point B... read more
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Just Chirpin’… Introducing Act II: Scene I, by Brittany Ulman
It is simply unbelievable that an entire three months passed so quickly—seemingly without my knowledge.  It feels like just yesterday I was packing up all of my things in my miniature dorm room in Dehority, about to head home for the entire summer. Where did all of the time go exactly? Well… First there was my online Spanish class that lasted a grueling five weeks—five weeks that seemed like an eternity.  Numerous compositions... read more
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Teen to Teen Talk: Waiting for a Good Thing, by Elizabeth Horner
If you go and stay in London for a year, like I did as a freshman college student, you are destined to acclimate to three things: British accents, the pitter patter of rain, and some person getting excited about Doctor Who or Sherlock, two of the hit shows on BBC. Which is why I think it is a testament to my self control that I did not start watching Steven Moffat’s modern-day interpretation of Sherlock Holmes until I had wandered my way back to the United... read more
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Teen to Teen Talk:  Being Practical, by Elizabeth Horner
My dad has never made a particular secret of the fact that he wants me to be a lawyer or a business-woman. I’ll call him up on the phone, as I do every week, talking about my American Literature class, and after I’ve finished my ten-minute long speech, he’ll say, “Why don’t you talk to some people about taking a business class. You know, you have to ask questions early or the opportunity will just slip away from you”. Thanks, Dad. Real supportive... read more
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Homesick, by Elizabeth Horner
A couple of weeks ago, I was craving fried chicken. My Spanish class was learning the words for different kinds of food, and while “pastel” and “papas fritas” sounded good, I felt a sudden, inexplicable temptation for “pollo”. Now, if I was back in Ohio, I knew the first thing I would do after school ended for the day would be to head over to Vint’s, and order a chicken dinner with a slice of strawberry... read more
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A Reason to Celebrate, by Elizabeth Horner
The church across the street from my apartment is perpetually busy. One Sunday, as I was coming home from grocery shopping, there was a boat blocking off the road, as the driver towing it tried to weave his way into the church’s parking lot. Then about a month ago, they sponsored a fair that was so popular that a park on the other side of the highway had to be commandeered for their use. You can understand then why, upon seeing signs advertising a music... read more
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County Door Systems reaches 25 years of service, By Mitchell Eversole, Versailles High School Class of 2015 - Located on 9422 Day Road, Versailles, Bill and Connie Grillot, the owners of County Door Systems, Inc. are no strangers to ever changing situations.  Started in 1978, and continuing today to operate as a small family business, Bill and Connie have been installing garage doors and door operators for years, no matter the circumstance.  The whole family has worked with the business over the years, but their eldest son... read more
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Brown’s Sweet Shop Celebrates 75 Years, By Cassidy Condon, Versailles High School Class of 2014, Senior Scribes Scholarship recipient - Fried rolls, glazed donuts, and fruit pies are among the several mouth-watering treats customers have craved at Brown’s Sweet Shop for 75 years. For the past several decades, the late Harry Brown and his son, Larry, have dedicated their lives to The Sweet Shop because they love all that comes with it. The loyal customers and the baking are among the many reasons of why they love this bakery. It all started in... read more
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Just Chirpin’… Curtain Call for Act One, By Brittany Ulman
Only two weeks after the end of freshman year, the shock is still wearing off.  Reflecting back on the previous two semesters, it is unbelievable that my first year of college is already over.  I feel like just yesterday, I was at Ball State on that rainy June morning for my two-day freshman orientation.  Scared out of my wits of what was to come, I was beyond nervous for that first day of collegiate life. Now I am officially a college sophomore. As I was... read more
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The Happy Ending, by Elizabeth Horner
I miss happy endings. I miss Sailor Moon, the Power Rangers, Boxcar Children books, stories about Thomas Edison trying a thousand different ways of making the light-bulb until his persistence paid off and voila. The older I’ve gotten, the more they have seemed to disappear, like Cinderella’s glass slipper once the clock struck midnight. I will avoid giving out spoilers, but for my fellow readers out there, I’m starting to ring a few bells, am I not? You can all recall... read more
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Love Vaster than Empires, and Judge More Slow, By: Elizabeth Horner
The rest of the crew couldn’t understand him. As an empath of sorts, Ogsden should be the nicest of them all, the most careful to preserve good relations among the few people who would be going with him to an unexplored, and likely, uninhabited new world. Instead, he called up every negative emotion they had, like drawing water from a well. Eventually, they learned to ignore him, and then to avoid his existence--- until one day, Ogsden ventured into the... read more
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A Study in Symmetry, by Elizabeth Horner
I’ve been writing articles since I was nine years old. And, in all that time, I cannot remember having penned any about Valentine’s Day. Of course, my memory could have swallowed one or two up: some reference to the card exchanges in elementary school or the abundance of chocolate spilling out of the grocery aisles come February--- but I’m sure I never discussed the issue itself. Why? I didn’t like admitting that... read more
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Nearly Impossible To Compare, By Ashley Studebaker
The latest blog by Teen Scribe and SSSF scholarship recipient Ashley Studebaker… You are all familiar with the term 'rivalry,' right? Maybe you all have heard of a specific rivalry that I will writing about... Tom Brady vs. Peyton Manning? It is pretty well-known in the sports world, you may have heard of the two. Peyton Manning and Tom Brady will be facing off for the 15th time this Sunday in the AFC Championship game. This is also known as the "Branning Bowl... read more
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Just Chirpin’… Act I:  Scene I, By Brittany Ulman
It is official, I have now completed my first semester of college. Even though there were definitely a fair share of ups and downs, it is finally over. After months of incessant studying, reading, writing, and memorizing, my brain can finally take a well-deserved vacation.  No more ideal gas law equations.  No more research papers to concoct.  No more historical dates to remember.  And finally, no more labs to complete... read more
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Teen to Teen Talk…The End of the World, by Elizabeth Horner
My high school graduating class was obsessed with predictions of the end of the world. We all knew that the same year we would walk across the football field to receive our diplomas--- green and white ceremonial gowns flapping around our ankles, nervous eyes scanning the sky for clouds--- was also supposed to be our last year of existence, if the Mayan’s highly accurate calendar suddenly ending meant anything. I doubt any of us actually believed... read more
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Teen to Teen Talk... Thanks Giving, By Elizabeth Horner
Two separate images pop into my head when I think of Thanksgiving. There is what actually happens--- three people around a table meant for eight, turkey and slightly over mashed potatoes (my fault), and then, as the evening drags on, a draw towards other things. And then there is this idea I have of Thanksgiving, not as a series of tasks, but as a warm, kind of orange glow--- the kind that surrounds happy families in TV commercials right before it fades to... read more
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More Important Than Fear, By Elizabeth Horner
Standing on a street in New York is a scary thing. For someone who is used to the way sunlight pools on green grass, warms the bark of trees to a warmer shade of brown, turns the golden heads of dandelions from weeds into beautiful flowers--- it is weird to see the sky so white, a background screen for the metal and glass sky-scrapers of the city. Not to mention, it is loud here. Cars move slowly, constantly having to inch their way around pedestrians, so... read more
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Just Chirpin’… A Major Change…Literally, By Brittany Ulman
Before I dive into my first published article, a short introduction of myself should be given.  Some of you may know me as Levi Olson’s Aunt Bees or Amanda Rodeheffer-Olson’s little sister; others may not know me at all.  Other than being related to the Olson clan, I am currently a freshman creative writing major at the Ball State University’s Honors College.  But before I started college, I attended Ansonia High School and was the 2013 graduating... read more
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Teen to Teen Talk… Reaching the Bull’s Eye of Success, by Elizabeth Horner
I’m no Annie Oakley. The one time my dad took me for practice shooting, I did OK, but it wasn’t something I was really into--- which is why I think it surprised both him and me when I started following the History Channel’s Top Shot. The shooting competition features some of the best marksmen from around the country, from around the world. In addition to the amazing talent of these men and women, I was also impressed by the show’s lack of politics. Whether... read more
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Teen to Teen Talk… Affirmation, by Elizabeth Horner
Television loves the drama of long, will-they-or-won’t-they romances. And for hit comedy show, New Girl, the tension between title character Jess and her roommate Nick is no exception. During a favorite episode of mine, when it seemed like they might actually declare their relationship, the two of them sat across from one another at a bar trading compliments back and forth. Nick revealed that he found it attractive when... read more
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Teen to Teen Talk…I Think, Therefore I Am, By Elizabeth Horner
“One step short of crazy, what do you get?” the character of Ben Gates asked, as he and his friend Riley walked the length of the Washington Mall. The sun was bright as an interrogator’s desk-lamp. “Obsessed,” the young computer-tech answered with a snort. “Passionate,” came Ben’s quick correction. ~oOo~ It is commonly believed--- not just by the writers of “National Treasure”--- that people are led by their passions. And if I traced the course of ... read more
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Teen to Teen Talk…Find your interest, find your passion, By Elizabeth Horner
I’m always looking for something to read. My shelves at home are filled with well-loved hard-and-paperback books. I have several library cards with my name on it. And I scan the internet regularly for recommendations from my favorite authors. And yet, in spite of that, it has taken me several years to get to The Catcher in the Rye, by J.D. Salinger. I’d heard of it since I was a little girl, but it wasn’t until I watched an episode of 8 Simple Rules, and I saw Kaley... read more
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Teen to Teen Talk…  Assertiveness, by Elizabeth Horner
(2nd of 12 Article Series) “What’s this?” my dad asked one day, somewhat annoyed as he stared at the mountains and mountains of books I had heaped on my bedroom floor. I was dusting, I explained, to clean the shelves all the way to the back instead of just brushing a paper towel or feather duster across the visibly dirty section. Understanding that I am an avid book lover, I told my dad, “my books deserved that”. And yet, in spite of my insistence in that situation... read more
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Where Do I Go From Here? By Ashley Studebaker
My freshman year of college is in the books and I think to myself… “Where do I go from here?” Thinking about what I could do next gives me a few options. Options such as continuing my education at Wright State University, transferring to somewhere else that I feel may give me better opportunities, or I could do the not-so-wise thing and drop out. One thing is for sure, I definitely will not be dropping out. My other option that I will be crossing off is .. read more
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Teen to Teen Talk… Effects of Alcohol on a Fetus, by Elizabeth Horner
Every family has traditions--- the moments played on repeat where you go through the same actions, have almost the same conversations over and over again. For my mother and me, we don’t have to wait for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner to roll around in order to partake in a well-established and beloved family tradition; any meal will do. And it goes like this: I will get soda, while Mom takes up a glass of water. Now, I don’t care if it’s got ice and a... read more
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Citizen of the World… Home on the Range, By Elizabeth Horner
It took me years to appreciate the irony. When I was younger and going on long car trips with my mom, it was not uncommon for me to take out a battered-and-bruised Little House book and read it out-loud to her. I would imagine that the sun streaming through the windows did not belong to this century or to that particular stretch of blacktop; instead, it was the mid to late 1800s, and the light was baking the head of... read more
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Musings of a Teen Scribe… Crazy Chicken Lady, by: Tiffany Beumer
Those who go out catching night crawlers, are usually into fishing; my family is into chickens. You read that right, my mom is becoming known as "the crazy chicken lady." I showed chickens for eight years, in that time I thought I had a lot of knowledge on the subject. Recently I have found that you can never know everything there is to know. My mom has been doing some reading on chickens and has given me some very interesting facts that I would ... read more
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Citizen of the World… Citizens of the World, by: Elizabeth Horner
My friends and I wandered down Oxford Street, shopping bags on one arm, vessels full of sugary-sweetness clasped in the opposite hand. In each of our pockets was a blue-and-yellow Oyster card ready to be used at the Bond Street Station. And while some people might claim that this sort of scene is very characteristic to downtown London, at the time, I felt a strange sense of camaraderie to the people in New York City who will I be among next fall... read more
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Musings of a Teen Scribe… I dare you…, By Tiffany Beumer
In a “short” period of time electronical gadgets have taken over many aspects in the lives of many people of all ages. Just the other day I saw what looked to be a ten year old child playing on his own iPhone. This child was with his family who all had iPhones that they were focused on. When I was ten I was outside exploring, or playing with actual toys. I am guilty though, I do own an iPhone but I have recently realized I was becoming too “addicted” to it. ... read more
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Musings of a Teen Scribe… Spaying Peaches, By Tiffany Beumer
As I have stated in the past, in July 2012 I took in a beautiful kitten that I named Peaches. She is one of those rare kittens that is not extremely hyper, and is very relaxed and quiet. Peaches only “speaks” when she wants her food bowl filled, as soon as food hits the bowl she is calm as could be. A couple of months ago it all changed, her hormones had taken over. She is the only cat in the household, which made me think her coming in heat would be... read more
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A Word of Caution… Disagreeing with the Road, By Tiffany Beumer
A year ago everyone was out in shorts and no jackets, this year it’s snow boots and layers of clothes. I understand we live in Ohio and they say the weather changes in a split second, but this weather is unbelievable. One day the sun is shining a beam of warmth, the next we are out building snowmen. Not only does the weather affect what we wear but also our driving can become hazardous. I’ve heard someone once say that when you live in Ohio you... read more
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Musings of a Teen Scribe… Clothing choices make me wonder, By Tiffany Beumer
Since when did style become wearing a pair of tights and a short t-shirt? Tights and a medium length flowy dress? That’s just fine! Yoga pants, everyone of all sizes seems to think those are okay to wear in public on a daily basis. The yoga pants show every crease and crevice! Granted I am one of those girls who enjoys some comfy jeans and a shirt that is a “perfect fit.” I understand that everyone is unique and I think that is wonderful, but the things ... read more
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Citizen of the World… A Picture Inspires a Thousand Words, By Elizabeth Horner
Two pictures. One features an old man, sitting on a bed in a decrepit apartment. The gun in his hand provides a sharp contrast to the lax expression on his face. Looking at it, I think my expectation of tension is stronger than what I would have felt if it was depicted as an actual tension-filled scene. The other photograph couldn’t be more alike --- or different. A woman is poised on a parking lot curve. Her perfect 80’s hairstyle and icy glare seem like a part of her... read more
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Thoughts on Life… See Every Little Thing for What it is, By Tiffany Beumer
There are times in life when one comes to realize the meaning of “life is short, live every minute to the fullest.” I have been raised in a small family, I mean small. When a death occurs it seems to turn everything upside down. On my foot I have a tattoo that I can honestly say holds a piece of my heart. There is a dandelion blowing, as if a wish had just been sent to it. Along the side the words “to the moon an... read more
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Introducing Tiffany… My Love of Animals, By Tiffany Beumer
My name is Tiffany Beumer, and I am twenty years old. I am the only child of Kevin and Angela Beumer. My parents own the Chicken Kitchen II, where I have worked for seven years. I grew up and live on a farm in Greenville. I am a 2010 graduate from Greenville Senior High. I was an eight year member of the Fun Bunch 4-H club; I showed poultry at the fair and was in the showman of showman competition in 2009 and 2011. I was the Second Runner up ... read more
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Mississinawa Valley FFA… Students seek leadership skills; carry on family traditions
By Kara Jessup, CNO Teen Correspondent - There are many reasons to participate in the Mississinawa Valley FFA, ranging from the opportunity to play basketball to family tradition. The Mississinawa Valley Chapter offers a program called the AG ball team. Kids that are not on the high school basketball team have an opportunity to play basketball through FFA. The team travels to different tournaments throughout February. Last year Mississinawa... read more
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Citizen of the World… Diamond in the Rough, By Elizabeth Horner
We are the result of all our life’s experiences. From the moment we open our eyes to the world as babies, we are collecting, storing, and interpreting data--- discovering not just how to look at things, but different ways of seeing them. Every book I encounter changes my relationship with words. Every time I meet someone new, it changes the manner in which I will view the person after that. And every place I travel to, alters... read more
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Citizen of the World… One Moment in Time, by Elizabeth Horner
I have always thought of life as a series of big events strung together only tenuously by more commonplace items. For example, there are hard-records of the day I was born, the first wobbly steps I took across the living room floor, and of my acceptance into the New York University Global Liberal Studies Core Program--- all of which are considered defining moments in my personal history. My mom has filled scrapbooks... read more
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Citizen of the World… Very Harry Christmas, By Elizabeth Horner
There was a sense of camaraderie in the air. For once, when I looked right or left, I glimpsed more than my fellow New York University Student and a face that I had noticed briefly while passing through the Academic Center lounge. I saw more than the tenuous connection between them and me that led us both to choose London as our Study Abroad location of choice. I recognized… another Harry Potter fan. In addition tol... read more
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Thankfulness, By Naiesha Thobe, Teen Scribe
First off, let me say sorry for the sudden vanishing of me and my writing. I'll write up a blog soon and explain everything. Second off, happy Thanksgiving. What are you thankful for? I started listing things that I was thankful for and realized, a few items through, that I'm thankful for a lot of otherwise immaterial things. Maybe that makes me a bad person. I'd like to think not, though. I just have very strange priorities. I'm thankful for my family. I appreciate everything... read more
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Citizen of the World… Dream Come True, By Elizabeth Horner
 The first three months of my freshman year have been challenging. There are the expected adjustments that come with having lived my entire life in Greenville , Ohio USA, a small farm town of approximately 13,000 people, and then overnight, moving here, living in the capital city of England with a population in the millions. More than that, college is like its own country, possessing its unique culture and traditions. My study habits, my patterns for eating... read more
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The High School Years: Savor Them , By Kara Jessup, CNO Teen Correspondent
I’ve been told many times not to wish my high school years away because they are the best, carefree times of your life. As an underclassman I didn’t understand that as a senior you have to make so many decisions. Figuring out what college you want to go to and what you want to major in is only a couple of the decisions you have to make. Another decision you have to make is if you want to commute to college or stay on campus. Living in a dorm... read more
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One Last Goodbye, By Christy L. Riley
1 just a face in the crowd numbering the thousands; purpose and reason, so much love and life, much to live for-too short of time, why so dreadfully early to leave so much behind? 2 may these words be in memory of those we have loved for so very long oh how it hurts to say so yet we must part if not just for awhile before again we see each other face to face - goodbye to the one who I love, goodbye to the one whose beauty... read more
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Third Star to the Right, By Naiesha Thobe, Teen Scribe
I recently had the pleasure (note: wary pleasure) of finding out about the movie Third Star. Pleasure because it stars my favourite actor of the time- Benedict Cumberbatch. Wary because... well, I found out the plot. Of course I found out the plot. Why would I want to see a movie that I didn't know the plot of? (I'm a terrible critic. And I also get bored very easily.) So, I found out the plot, I was immediately wary, but... read more
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Citizen of the World, Part II… All of us survived until graduation, By Elizabeth Horner
I think that to many new graduates, the statement that “All of us survived until graduation” would be met with an understanding smile and maybe, a sigh of relief. From my experience, senior high school was tough, and I know that I am not alone on this.  Between the SAT, ACT, and AP tests to filling out the "Common Application" along with supplemental essays, going for interviews, completing what seemed like un-ending... read more
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Toastmasters… Public Speaking with Confidence, By Christy L. Riley
Toastmasters makes and builds leaders; in addition, you gain confidence while developing listening and communication skills. “Toastmasters is an educational program. You did it because you wanted to. Because it keeps you going and motivated.  Everything that we do is to help you grow. When [someone] wants to learn something, they look towards [a mentor] to learn from. We find something new to learn and we pass it on. We learn something new and... read more
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The Next Journey… My Country Tis of Thee, By Elizabeth Horner
The decision to spend my freshman year abroad was not made lightly. Many people warned me about “culture shock”, the uneasy feeling that comes from being in a new place, surrounded by people whose way of life is different than my own. And so, I tried to prepare myself. In the days and weeks leading up to my journey, I did additional reading about the English monarchy, tried to learn the proper English etiquette... read more
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Greenville First Fridays… The Rain Won't Slow Us Down, By Naiesha Thobe, Teen Scribe
This past Friday was this reporter's first chance to experience Broadway's "First Fridays". It was a remarkably interesting prospect, reading about fire breathers and belly dancers and magicians that were going to be wandering through our hometown. It was exciting and, thus, I appealed to my friends to get a group together and we'd all go hang out and watch the entertainment. And then the rain. Oh, the rain. It left us wondering is this even happening now?... read more
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College Bound 2012… The Last Journal Entry, by Elizabeth Horner
 It’s been a few years since I started imagining and writing about heading to college. It’s finally here!  Usually, the week before school started, I would be enjoying myself at The Great Darke County Fair in my hometown in Greenville , Ohio , relaxing, having fun before hitting the school books.  This year, I spent those days thinking about London while I sorted through my stuff factoring in what the weather would be where I was heading and what clothes and... read more
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Darke County Fair... A Night Out With Foreigner
, By Naiesha Thobe, Teen Scribe
The Greenville High School Wavaires had the opportunity to perform live with Foreigner Sunday night. The performance went great and the crowd loved the display of not only the professional, well-known band, but the Wavaires performance as well. Jeanna Gnade, Senior member of Wavaires, said that they were very excited about the chance to perform with Foreigner: "... We'd already gotten to perform... read more
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Darke County Fair… Deep Fried Food, By Naiesha Thobe, Teen Scribe
This reporter, for one, can't get her mind around the amount of food that they're deep frying. That said, I'm fairly adventurous when it comes to food, so I've made it a personal goal to try something new deep-fried every year. Last year, it was deep-fried Coca-Cola. This year? Deep-fried brownie. I spent about two hours wandering around the farm and looking for concession stands with actual deep-fried... read more
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Welcome to the Great Darke County Fair, By Naiesha Thobe, Teen Scribe
The crunch of the first day of the fair doesn’t seem to deter people from visiting the fairgrounds. On the opening day, the fairgrounds were already packed with people searching for food, fun, entertainment, or social meetings. For the adults visiting the fair, there’s the food. There’s plenty of concession stands to choose from, and even a few new ones this year! There are also rides for the excitement-seeking adults... read more
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College Bound… Building Solidarity between Generations, By Elizabeth Horner
It was an honor to be given the opportunity to address the National Federation of Filipino-American Association members during the welcome plenary session in their recent national convention held in Detroit Michigan, August 2-5, 2012. I have never envisioned at my age of 18 that I would be privileged to be seated in the podium with the NaFFAA President Ed Navarro, Consul General Leo Herrera Lim and Philippine... read more
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Chance of a Lifetime, By Naiesha Thobe, Teen Scribe
How many times does a person get to say that they designed a float for a parade? Okay, if you’re into some big club or association, then fine, you probably get to do it every year. However, when you’re not particularly involved with much... well, getting that honour is something totally cool. I got the chance for County News Online; some of you probably saw me and a few of my friends in the parade. We were doing... read more
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Building Solidarity Series, Part III... Communication, By Elizabeth Horner
It’s a running joke in the family. When I was applying for admittance into the National Honor Society, I was asked to name my “best quality”, as well as answer a series of other questions about my character. I put down that I was “stubborn”.  Mom thought that it was a terrible idea. Even though she knew I was only jokingly describing my generally determined attitude--- because the word “stubborn” has a different negative... read more
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Colorado Shooting, Another Tragedy, By Elizabeth Horner
In my young life, I have watched so many tragedies on television --- vivid pictures of natural and man-made cataclysms.  I can’t help but be bothered by what I see and hear sometimes. I was only 7 years old when the Twin Towers collapsed and I have this vivid memory of billowing white powder grabbing for people who were trying to run away from it. I was 13 years old when the big tsunami hit Thailand... read more
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College Bound 2012… The Power of Technology, By Elizabeth Horner
Technology has redefined the way our society is run. Instead of laughing, we often “lol” or “rofl”. Smiles are replaced by :). The word “friend” now extends to any number of people we come in contact with on Facebook. People separated by great distances, even by mountains and seas find it easy and inexpensive to stay in touch--- even to work together towards common goals. Information technology has the... read more
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College Bound 2012... Solidarity, By Elizabeth Horner
Every time we breathe or take a gulp of air, we absorb a piece of history. It seems unbelievable but particles of the same air that escaped the mouth of Queen Elizabeth I, Albert Einstein, Benjamin Franklin, Annie Oakley, Dr. Jose Rizal, and countless other outstanding individuals, are journeying through our own bodies right now. The same substances that gave them life help sustain you--- us--- the world today. So when I think of issues of solidarity --- of “harmony... read more
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College Bound 2012... Independence Day, By Elizabeth Horner
It’s the 4th of July --- Time to celebrate. We rejoice over this glorious freedom we now enjoy. In a few months, I will be facing my own, more personal Independence Day. After years of waiting to be eighteen, the occasion is finally here. I will be heading off to college. Not only that, I will be embarking to see how it is like to live in a different country, a different culture, as part of my studies at New York University’s Liberal Arts Core - Global Program. I would.... read more
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Hmm... By Naiesha Thobe
Good morning to those who happen to be awake at two a.m. on this soon-to-be-very-hot day. Or rather, good afternoon to those who will read this later. I hope you enjoy the weather, whatever it may be by the time you read this. Thoughts. Let me see... what am I thinking about? How about writing? This is my time of day for it. (To those who are saying why do you stay up so late?! My answer is I sleep late and I work better... read more
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It’s Father’s Day, By Elizabeth Horner
My Dad only likes a few things in life but when he does, he usually likes it to infinity.  One of those is debating with his daughter.  He and I like to discuss historical information and I very much respect his vast and in-depth knowledge on the subject.  I have to say that he is more passionate about science than I am but we love to stay up late into the night discussing all sorts of topics, and we do like to compete on who can... read more
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Day and Night, A Series of Poems by Christy Riley
Christy Riley is a young lady who simply enjoys life. She has a strong commitment to her faith and her community, and has submitted many articles to County News Online over the past year. Her prose has ranged from assigned feature stories and coverage of local events to thought-provoking poetry… as only a young person can offer. Here is her latest series of poems for your enjoyment... read more
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College Bound 2012... The end of life as I know it, By Elizabeth Horner
When I first heard that 2012 was the supposed end of the world, I wasn’t surprised. It’s not that I put stock in the stories about the Mayans, who might simply have run out of room on their calendar, or on some people’s interpretation of Nostradamus’s doomsday prophecy.  But I had this feeling that life as I know it is coming to a close. From this moment on, I cease to be just a student of history but a part of its... read more
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Thoughts on Memorial Day and Celebrating our Freedom, By Christy L. Riley
We all celebrate Memorial Day in many ways:  for some it is reflection upon the past, others a time to remember and commemorate our veterans current and past from various branches of services: Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marines, Navy, and National Guard; and others view it as a time to catch up with friends and family for an outdoor cookout. Regardless of how you celebrate Memorial Day, here are some thoughts... read more
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Tired, Frustrated, Sad but Happy, By Elizabeth Horner
College Bound 2012 - I was 9 years old when my first submitted article got published.  I wrote an essay about my “Last Day of School” that appeared in the Daily Advocate Newspaper, in June 2003.  Soon after, I received an invitation from the editor of that newspaper to write for their Special Independence Day edition.  I remember having strong feelings of sadness and happiness the day when I wrote that first piece... read more
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A message to my Mother, By Elizabeth Horner
Editor: I’ve known Elizabeth almost the entire 11 years I’ve lived in Darke County. She was in the third grade when she wrote a story for the front page of The Advocate… the youngest writer to ever do so. This summer she will be preparing for her next great journey… a year in England and pursuit of her degree from American University in New York, full tuition paid. On Sunday – Mother’s Day – I received the following from her…... read more
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Graduate to the Next Level, By Christy L. Riley
“You have the brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose. You’re on your own. And you know what you know. You are the guy who’ll decide where to go.” – Dr. Suess - Each year youth graduate from one grade to the next: elementary school to junior high, junior high to high school, high school to college and/or life, college to life, and from life itself. There are so... read more
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Senioritis, By Elizabeth Horner
College Bound 2012 - Am I suffering from a case of high school senioritis?  The common knowledge symptom is “slacking off” in school performance in comparison to my previous level. I will let the readers be the judge. I started to dream about my college life when I was still in fifth grade.  I have been thinking of a university that will embrace my passion and provide me with the opportunities to grow in my chosen field... read more
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Interview with a Senior... Harshbarger, Cech and Savage, By Naiesha Thobe
With graduation fast approaching, a majority of the students at Greenville Senior High School have an idea of what they want to do after high school. For those graduating, I have decided that a few questions to a few Seniors would be a great insight for what today’s generation is planning on doing in the future. For this installment of “Interview with a Senior,” we have three particular students: Marlaina... read more
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Why Creative Writing? (College Bound 2012), by Elizabeth Horner
Why Creative Writing?  A common question I have been asked as I get busy with college applications. Here’s my thinking.  Our body is made up mostly of oxygen, carbon, hydrogen, etc., and when we die, our bodies will decompose and become worm-food.  I want something, SOMETHING I can leave behind that says who I was and what I cared about… and share the knowledge I have gained in life with the next... read more
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Linens, By Sam Armstrong, Teen Scribe
Author: “I tried to put a more human, modern twist on old history.” Mary died in the month of March, and John took her body and wrapped parts of her arms in the swaddling clothes she’d saved in a wooden box in the second drawer of the maple dresser in her bedroom. They were old and dusty, but John knew how much they meant to her, and besides, it was what Joseph would have wanted. Jesus couldn’t believe she’d... read more
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T.V. Wars, By Naiesha Thobe, Teen Scribe
I wanted to start off by wishing a very Happy New Year to all of the readers of CNO. It’s been awhile since I’ve been heard from, so I’m a little behind on the cheerful tidings, but better late than never. Now, my real reason for writing (and the conspicuous title) and one of America’s favorite pasttimes: television! Who doesn’t like a good T.V. show? Honestly, I don’t watch much T.V. I either don’t have the time or I’m just not... read more
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A Weekly Thing... Happy New Year!
Naiesha Thobe, Story Editor, Amy Whittington, Cartoonist, Teen Scribes - Naiesha and Amy are both seniors at Greenville High School. Naiesha has written for our Teen Scribes section for months and introduced Amy to partner with her on the second of many cartoons and cartoon strips to run on a weekly basis. This week’s offering is a Happy New Year from Naiesha and Amy and all of the students who... read more
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Welcome 2012,By Elizabeth Horner, Teen Scribe
December 29, 2011 - I hope that you had a Happy Christmas, an Epic Holiday, and I wish you all a Blissful and Merry New Year! I am praying for special blessings in 2012 --- a year I have been waiting for all my life. In 2012, I turn 18 years old. While many girls in the Filipino-American community get presented to the public as a lady through a ceremony called debut, I opted out of that in favor of a Kindle Fire and Netgear 300 Wireless Router connection... read more
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Given Unto Us, By Christy Riley, Teen Scribe
1 for such a time as this
    let us all reminisce the very night
        heaven came down to earth
        and history was forever changed, ... read more
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The Spirits of Christmas, By Elizabeth Horner
Sometimes during the heat of summer, I’ll hum a few bars of “Jingle Bells” or “Silent Night” to myself. It’s never by design, and I’ll switch over to a pop or country song as soon as I realize how off-key I am … or I get this little embarrassing feeling of how off-season I’m being but the words will still cycle through my head: Dashing through the snow… making spirits bright. What fun it is to ride and sing a sleighing song tonight... read more
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A Weekly Thing... Merry Christmas!
Naiesha Thobe, Story Editor, Amy Whittington, Cartoonist, Teen Scribes - Naiesha and Amy are both seniors at Greenville High School. Naiesha has written for our Teen Scribes section for months and introduced Amy to partner with her on the second of many cartoons and cartoon strips to run on a weekly basis. This week’s offering is a Merry Christmas from Naiesha and Amy and all of the... read more
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Tea Regime, By Sam Armstrong, Teen Scribe
Editor’s Note: In submitting this, Sam said: “I recently wrote this piece comparing making a cup of tea to brutal war tactics. I couldn’t think of two more opposite things to compare, but in the end I guess I found a lot of similarities to their processes! Hope you enjoy it. Oh, and I used a fictional name for a general in my piece. It is not a subtly political move to speak out against any current warfare.” He added that while he... read more
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A Weekly Thing... Christmas Break
Naiesha Thobe, Story Editor; Amy Whittington, Cartoonist, Teen Scribes - Naiesha and Amy are both seniors at Greenville High School. Naiesha has written for our Teen Scribes section for months and introduced Amy to partner with her on the fourth of many cartoons and cartoon strips to run on a weekly basis. This week’s offering is a look students waiting… waiting… and waiting for the much anticipated... read more
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A Weekly Thing... Ohio Weather
Naiesha Thobe, Story Editor, Amy Whittington, Cartoonist, Teen Scribes
Naiesha and Amy are both seniors at Greenville High School. Naiesha has written for our Teen Scribes section for months and introduced Amy to partner with her on the fourth of many cartoons and cartoon strips to run on a weekly basis. This week’s offering is a look at our weather.... read more
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Though he will be missed dearly, It is his turn to enjoy eternal peace, He is being welcomed into a new world, As his toils on Earth cease - Elizabeth Horner - Thank you, Mr. Hamilton - I would like to send my thoughts and prayers to Mrs. Phyllis Hamilton and her family on the death of her husband, Lowell Hamilton of Greenville, OH. While my mom met Mr. and Mrs. Hamilton long before I knew them, my first recollection was at CJ Highmarks when I was about ten years old. I was new to contributing articles to the Daily... read more
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Giving Thanks, By Elizabeth Horner
While family gathers in front of scrumptious meals, and parties begin for the holiday season, we know people around us that are encountering hardships or dark periods in their lives. The road to their future may not only be hidden, but they can scarcely tell what is up or what is down. I happen to believe things happen for a reason and we have free will to make noble choices when life throws us those curve balls... read more
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A Weekly Thing, Naiesha Thobe, Story Editor, Amy Whittington, Cartoonist, Teen Scribes
Naiesha and Amy are both seniors at Greenville High School. Naiesha has written for our Teen Scribes section for months and introduced Amy to partner with her on the second of many cartoons and cartoon strips to run on a weekly basis. This week’s offering is a look at Thanksgiving and the traditional Turkey Day dinner... read more
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Giving-Thanks on Thanks-Giving, By Christy L. Riley
As former President John Fitzgerald Kennedy once said, “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” Psalm 100:4-5 says, “4 Be thankful and praise the LORD as you enter his temple. 5 The LORD is good! His love and faithfulness will last forever.” So let us all as we gather around the table, give thanks remembering all the ways we are so blessed... read more
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It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas, By Naiesha Thobe, Teen Scribe
Greenville, Ohio was not the exception to the rule on Friday evening. Broadway was bustling with people as the festivities took place - and it was only the beginning. The annual Holiday Open House – a prelude to the Annual Greenville Horse Parade Saturday night - took place all over downtown, each business welcoming visitors in to browse, buy, or just to check out the new stores making home there. Holiday sales and... read more
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A Weekly Thing, Naiesha Thobe, Story Editor, Amy Whittington, Cartoonist, Teen Scribes
Naiesha Thobe and Amy Whittington are both seniors at Greenville High School. Naiesha has written for our Teen Scribes section for months and introduced Amy to partner with her on the first of many cartoons and cartoon strips to run on a weekly basis. “Our first comic… it’s an introductory bit,” Naiesha said. “We’ll make some center around GHS and some not, but if something.... read more
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Pixels By Sam Armstrong, Teen Scribe
The little bricks went together piece by piece, a section at a time, a small structure of a world, of the world, of a world he would have rather lived in. It was a universe on the living room floor, a testament to lives lived with larger pixels, so things weren’t as detailed and you had to look and squint to understand people and their places. People in their places, peepholes over faces. His fingers assembled the bricks in patterns only he could choose, because their colors had sounds and feelings, and the drums in his ears hadn’t understood  ... read more
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The Power of the Brush, By Naiesha Thobe, Teen Scribe
I had the pleasure of ‘getting my paws’ on the Wii video game, Ōkami. I’m punning on that statement, because Ōkami Amaterasu is a wolf. The story behind Ōkami... Long ago, a protective god named Shiranui managed to seal away a demon that was threatening the land of Nippon. Now, 100 years later, that seal has been broken. A lone white wolf, Ōkami Amaterasu, who is a sun god, is called forth to save the land from the once again impending doom.... read more
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A New Yellow Brick Road, By Naiesha Thobe, Teen Scribe
SyFy managed to get their miniseries Alice to be quite the hit, but before Alice came Tin Man. As most would be able to guess from the title, this miniseries revolves around a futuristic Wizard of Oz. Starring Zooey Deschanel, Neal McDonough, Alan Cumming, Raoul Trujillo, and Kathleen Robertson, this story follows the adventures of a girl named DG after she is, literally, swept away into a strange world that goes by the... read more
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Welcome to a Brand New Wonderland, By Naiesha Thobe, Teen Scribe
Recently, while going on a movie-watching binge with a few of my friends, was treated to the wonder of a brand new Wonderland. This TV miniseries, hosted by SyFy, proved to be quite a twist on the original adventure of a much beloved story. Alice is the SyFy remake of the ever popular Alice in Wonderland. Knowing that the miniseries comes from the SyFy channel, viewers have to be prepared for elements... read more
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Homecoming Preparations in Full Swing, By Naiesha Thobe
The week of Homecoming has finally arrived! Talk of the game, the parade, and of course, the dance are only a few topics squirreling through the hallways of Greenville High School. Naturally, most people only care about those three events, but there is much going on for Homecoming week that is often overlooked. First off, the school clubs unite! Meetings once a day, every day, as each club hurries to find... read more
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Fall... A Season of Change, By Christy L. Riley
Fall is clearly a season of change; because it is the time of year when the leaves change colors and fall to the ground for us all to jump and crunch beneath our feet. To fully define this season of change and remembrance, here are what others have to say: what do you like most about fall; tell your favorite childhood memory; and what does “Fall” mean to you. “The colors of the leaves on the trees, because it... read more
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Creative Writing “outside the box” By Sam Armstrong
I wrote these for my Creative Writing class. The first piece was originally written to describe one object that we chose to observe. I observed a bicycle. After that, we had to describe that same object in terms of something else. I learned that this was called conceit. And I decided to try to describe a bicycle using nouns, verbs, and adjectives that would normally be used to describe a whale. In the second piece... read more
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For Every Action, By Elizabeth Horner
Science is only interesting when I can see its real life applications. Newton’s claim that “for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction” meant that when I sat on one end of the teeter-totter, the other side would shoot skyward. Without going into details, at age nine, that was some pretty useful stuff and I had to agree with teachers… this guy was smart! Over time, more of his theorems became very... read more
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Many ‘Roll In’ For ‘Cruise In’, By Naiesha Thobe, Teen Scribe
The annual Rolling 50’s Cruise In was held recently in Greenville from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. Broadway was packed with hundreds of cars amongst hundreds of people who had all turned up for only one reason: revisiting the past. Various vehicles dating from not only the 50’s but from the 40’s and so on lined Greenville’s downtown for a majority of the day on Saturday. Chevrolets, Willys, Pontiacs, amongst various... read more
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Promises of Fun Drew In Many, By Naiesha Thobe, Teen Scribe
The First Church of God in Ansonia, Ohio had promises of fun at the event held September 10th. It was dubbed the Outdoor Family Fun Day, hosted for four hours and the public was strongly encouraged to join in on the fun. The children were taught to shoot a bow and arrow in the archery range, to try their hand with an air rifle, or to try something more difficult: a clay bird range. Also, a fishing contest was held in the pond... read more
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Documents of our Existence, By Elizabeth Horner
I have been to Washington D.C. three times.  My first trip was with my 8th grade school field trip.  The second time, I met U.S. Congressman Steve Austria in an event in Dayton, Ohio where he invited me to visit his office and tour the US Capitol Building.  My third trip happened because I bugged my mother enough about wanting to see the National Archives and the Library of Congress, since I did not have the... read more
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Televised Violence, By Dorothy Gilbert, Teen Scribe
I believe TV violence does have an effect on the way people act. A prime example of this would be UFC, also known as Underground Fighting Championship. In the past few years I have just started hearing about this UFC. The first time I heard of it, was in my freshmen year. I overheard a couple of boys engaging in a conversation about the most recent fight. As the conversation went on, I also noted that these... read more
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Rain, Rain, Go Away, By Naiesha Thobe, Teen Scribe
Unless you have been living under a secluded rock, you will know that Hurricane Irene is battering the East Coast as you read this article. Of course, the weather couldn’t be any nicer here - it’s cool for once (mildly), there’s no rain (which we need), and the winds are calm (for now). So, a lot of people are probably growing tired of hearing nothing except Irene this, Irene that, 100 MPH, New York, Obama’s... read more
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A Chapter in My Life – Part 2, By Elizabeth Horner
The Great Darke County Fair is here and while it brings back many fond memories, it is a reminder that the start of my last school year at Greenville Senior High School is about to begin.  No doubt, the year 2011-2012 will take pretty good space in my journal ending this one chapter of my life as I venture into the next. There is something I am pretty sure will carry forward through many years to come.  I have grown into... read more
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A chapter in my life, By Elizabeth Horner
When you’re nine, you don’t stop to think about how the book you’re reading could change the entire course of a life. All I knew was that my best friend, Alison, didn’t believe my claim that I could read a whole page in “under sixty seconds” and when I told her, “I could too”; she pulled a thick, colorful tome off a shelf in our school media center, gleefully thrusting it into my hands. Okay then, challenge accepted... read more
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Alas? Fair Time Again, By Naiesha Thobe
You'd be hard pressed to find a seventeen year old who's not excited for the Great Darke County Fair. Granted, I am not that teenager... the fair loses its luster after so many years, don't you think? I can remember when I was really young - my dad brought home a life-sized stuffed tiger through one of the many games. I don't particularly remember that year at fair, or the game, but I remember the tiger... read more
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It’s Annie’s 151st birth anniversary! By Elizabeth Horner, Teen Scribe
August 13, 2011 --- Today is Annie Oakley’s 151st birth anniversary.  I dedicate this article in her honor. Growing up, I had this collection of books featuring the childhood of famous Americans.  The characters described in those books were like my friends---George Washington, Thomas Edison, Walt Disney, and yes, Annie Oakley and so many others, became remarkable in my eyes, not because of what... read more
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The Gathering at Garst... an unexpected pleasure, By Christy Riley
When I first heard of “The Gathering at Garst,” I did not think much. After a hard week of working, I was not intrigued to attend; yet I was soon proved wrong. It was amazing to see all the artists out there selling piece of themselves in their artwork, seeing history and the past come alive, enjoying good music, hanging out with strangers as I learned what makes their work awesome, and enjoying... read more
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Animal Cops, By Sammy Lobenstein, Teen Scribe
Animal cops respond to calls about alleged abuse and neglect of animals. They help enforce the laws that protect animals from being treated as objects of torture and cruelty or neglect.  Sometimes agents go undercover to bust illegal activities such as dog fighting. There are also illegal drugs and illegal gambling usually where they have dog fights. Hoarding animals is another problem the... read more
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Preempting the New Year’s Resolution Madness... Be Less Stressed, By Kayla Lemar, Teen Scribe
Maybe your mom just had a baby—a wonderful baby, that poops and slobbers and hogs attention.  Trig could be on your course list for fall, which means serious rejection potential for that academic scholarship.  Maybe you just have poor time management skills.  Or home life could be rough.  There are lots of things that cause stress in our lives: major life changes, difficult family situations, and... read more
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Daniel Fitzgerald Designs
“I’m looking for new clients… anybody need a website?” Some of my distinct pleasures as an “old guy” are the opportunities I’ve had to meet and get to know Darke County youth… I’ve written about many of them. Each is different and brings his or her own unique personality into the equation. I met Daniel a few years ago when he came to the Eagles with his dad… a smart kid, and a smart-aleck kid. But immensely... read more
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Career Mentorship Program… Introducing… Dylan Hoover
County News Online has had many opportunities to showcase the creative efforts of some of Darke County’s young people. Dylan Hoover is not a writer… he’s a photographer. “I love taking pictures and experimenting with photography,” he said. His photos show a developing talent that ranges from “interesting and creative” to “breathtaking.” The Greenville High School junior came to CNO through the... read more
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Ender’s Game, A Book Review by Elizabeth Horner
Ender’s Game is the type of sci-fi novel I would normally not pick up if I saw it in a store. Doomsday prophecies, war and bloodshed, not even a whiff of romance seemed like a formula for my displeasure. However, I had read several other books by the same author, Orson Scott Card, and loved every moment of it, so I thought that I would give Ender’s Game a try.  It was a shocker as page by page and chapter... read more
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Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part Two, By Elizabeth Horner
In the movie “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part Two”, Harry Potter (played by Daniel Radcliffe), and his two friends, Ron and Hermione (performed by Rupert Grint and Emma Watson), continue their epic adventure hunting down Voldemort’s Horcruxes, pieces of his soul confined to objects that sustain his immortal life. The trail ultimately leads them back to Hogwarts, the famous wizarding school.  The situation... read more
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“I Solemnly Swear that I am Up to No Good” By Naiesha Thobe, Teen Scribe
On Thursday, July 14th. The madness began. Parties were held, theaters prepared, frantic fans scrambled in this last attempt to show their support for the stories that have swept the nation for fourteen years. That series is none other than Harry Potter. With the conclusion to the movie adaptation having drawn to a close at no earlier than 2:50 a.m. on Friday morning, there were many opportunities for fans... read more
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“I’m a Count, not a Saint.” By Naiesha Thobe
“I’m the Count of Monte Cristo, but my friends call me Edmond Dantès!” Recently, I had the pleasure of re-watching the 2002 version of the Count of Monte Cristo. This isn’t the first time I’ve seen the movie, but they do say that true classics never die out. The movie’s based off of the 1844 book “The Count of Monte Cristo” written by Alexandre Dumas père. Both the book and movie... read more
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A Day in the Life of...  By Naiesha Thobe
Have you ever looked at the profession that you're in and wondered 'Well, how did I get here? This job is horrendous.' Or are you on the other end of the spectrum and enjoy your job thoroughly? Looking back, is this the job that you wanted all your life, or is it just something else to struggle through? By high school, a person should have an idea of the profession that they want to go into... read more
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What it Means to be Free, By Christy L. Riley, Teen Scribe
America the beautiful and brave, your song sings true to my heart. Not a moment goes by when I do not think of your trials and wars fought. Not a day passes when I do not think of those who have died for the very word Freedom. So let freedom ring. Freedom, what power such a word holds in our hearts. What power this word holds to have caused so much bloodshed, to bring about the very freedoms that many... read more
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Tuck Everlasting... A Movie Review by Teen Scribes Elizabeth Horner, Leslie Logan, Christal Smith
 The three of us watched the DVD “Tuck Everlasting” starring Alexis Bledel who played the role of Winnie Foster and William Hart as Jesse Tuck. Christal:  This Walt Disney’s bittersweet film, Tuck Everlasting, moves along in seemingly “endless tragic life” of the Tuck family when Winnie Foster unexpectedly walked into it.  It all started when she finds Jesse sipping the water in the woods that... read more
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Survival of the Fittest, By Elizabeth Horner, Grade 11, Greenville Senior High School
When I was much younger, my friends and I enjoyed playing superhero. We loved to imagine what it would be like to have powers, to be the strongest, smartest protector the world could have --- and to always triumph over evil.  We played make believe that we were the Sailor Scouts and the Power Rangers. Recently, I was watching the DVD movie series of the “Godfather”.  I started thinking of gladiators... read more
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An exploration of Emotions, From the Teen Scribes
Teen Editor Elizabeth Horner is a team leader for a group of Teen Scribes who were also participants in the recent Power of the Pen Regional and District competitions. She works with them on a weekly basis to improve their writing skills and to expand their horizons in a variety of areas. The following brief essays explored “Emotions” from a teen’s perspective… and how they drive thoughts and... read more
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Changing Times, By Elizabeth Horner, College Bound 2012
Elizabeth Horner is Editor of the Teen Scribes and advisor to Greenville’s Power of the Pen teams. She has published often on County News Online, in the Early Bird, The Daily Advocate and is now being syndicated in a number of online periodicals out of Chicago. It’s easy to feel like our hold, On the past, is slipping away, We fervently cling to the world, As we saw it yesterda... read more
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Fathers Day, By Christy L. Riley
I wrote this poem for my dad when I was in high school. It still rings true to my heart today. This year for Fathers’ Day may we all thank our dad for everything. If you do not have a dad, then thank all the father figures in your life and/or thank someone you know who is a father today. A helping hand in times of trouble, A smile during times of trouble, And a tender hand... read more
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Something for everyone at Poultry Days, By Christy L. Riley, Teen Scribe
The 60th Annual Versailles Poultry Day Festival was an unforgettable day. As with every year, there were rides, games, activities and events for all ages. This year featured the annual Poultry Days Parade on Saturday, an Antique Car Show & Tractor Show/Parade on Sunday, Kiddie Tractor Pull, Arts & Crafts, Flower and Photography Shows and the greatest “Ultimate Frisbee Tournament... read more
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Preempting the New Year’s Resolution Madness, Getting Organized
By Kayla Lemar, Teen Scribe - 6/12/11 - Processes are my lifeblood.  I spent most of my childhood summers organizing “summer school” lessons for my younger siblings, a sure sign that I longed for the order of school life.  Changing classes, a balanced load of assignments, easily defined due dates and expectations—that’s what I live for. My need for organization hasn’t changed.  I took a position... read more
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Grandma’s Story, By Hannah Cloyd, 8th Grade, DeColores Montessori School
“Hurray Mawma, hurry! I’m all ready for bed. I’m in bed. I’m ready to go to sleep,” I called from the extra bedroom in my grandmother’s house. This typically isn’t the cheering you hear from a four year old girl, but this was no ordinary night. Tonight I would get to hear my grandma’s story, but not just any story tonight! Tonight my grandmother would tell me my favorite story, The Tar Baby. “Are you ready... read more
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I am a Lucky Girl, By Morgan Kelch, 7th Grade, Versailles Exemplified Village Schools
I am a lucky girl. I have a great-grandma. Not just any great-grandma, mine is special. I know what you are thinking; everyone thinks that their grandma is special. Mine really is. Everything she does is for others. One of the many things she does is make homemade applesauce, angel food cakes, and noodles to pass out to family and friends. When someone in the community passes away, she is happy... read more
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Memory Filled Shore, By Olivia Wysong, 8th Grade, DeColores Montessori School
Tiring and out of breath I climbed to the top of the towering sand dune. I holler back down to Grandpa who was only about half way up. I leaped down to him and my feet sunk just enough to allow the fine sand to creep around my toes. I grabbed his rough hand and used all my weight to help him up. He pretended that I was strong enough to pull him, and allowed himself to be drug to the top of the hill. When we reached the... read more
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Grandpa on a Boat!!!, By Christopher Force, 7th Grade, DeColores Montessori School
Splash! As my grandpa let down his blue striped boat into the crystal clear lake, I could fee a soft breeze blow across the water. It was going to be a great sailing day. We were in the boat waiting to start out my grandpa turned the key but the motor replied with no response. My grandpa had forgotten one thing – to get gas for the boat. So, we headed to the gas station. On our way there a crazy thing happened... read more
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My first speech before NPC group, By Elizabeth Horner
I was going through strong emotions as I travelled to Des Plaines , IL memorizing my speech at the back seat of the van --- the speech that I was going to deliver the following day, May 28, 2011 at Café La Cave before National Press Club Phil-USA members.  I wondered how they would receive an 11th grade student discourse. Upon arrival at the event, I was greeted by the President and... read more
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My Thoughts On Stelvideo Christian Church Memorial Day Service
May 29, 2011 - By Christy Riley - If you do not remember the past, you are doomed to repeat it. So let us all never forget those who died and the past wars America fought. May we always remember the mistakes made lest we repeat the same mistakes twice. Point is, go out and thank a veteran, for because of him/her you have freedom. I arrived twenty minutes early. It took me awhile... read more
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Teen Summer... Looking forward
Summer is almost here and four Teen Scribes think ahead to summer days... even the coming school year. Some of them will be entering high school. It can be scary or it can be an exciting challenge... or both. Want to know what some of these young people are thinking? Here are the thoughts of Sammy Lobenstein, Moe Donthnier, Leslie Logan and Elizabeth Horner... read more
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College Bound 2012, by Elizabeth Horner
The end of this school year is almost here.  I feel honored to be asked to be the flag bearer in this year’s GSH commencement.  Somehow, at this time of the year, I find the after effect of stopping and reflecting on the things that have happened during the school year soothing, especially after my mind is content with the plan I have for the next leg of my academic journey.  Next year, I will know for certain which... read more
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Happy Mother’s Day, By Elizabeth Horner
At three years old, you coaxed me to sleep, Reading stories that became part of my dreams, “Cinderella”, “Mike and Tony Best Friends”, By five, I flipped through books on my own, I traveled the world from inside our home, Always disappointed when I came to “the end”... read more
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Preempting the New Year’s Resolution Madness, #4 Having a Helping Heart
By Kayla Lemar, Teen Scribe - Volunteerism is officially defined as working without payment.  But just as patience is not just waiting, but waiting with a good attitude, so volunteerism is not just having helping hands, but having a helping heart that extends them. For a long time, volunteering was my duty.  In fact, one of the reasons I didn’t keep a job during High School because I preferred... read more
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The Royal Wedding and the Monarchy, By Elizabeth Horner, Teen Scribe
The international press descended in London to cover what the media is reporting to be the most watched television event in history, the wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton. The television stations crammed the airwaves as I woke up early Friday morning  April 29.  Who designed Kate’s dress? How much did the affair cost? Will the prince and princess live happily ever after? People... read more
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An invitation to all peers
Teenage years are a time for self-expression--- learning how the world works and then finding our place in it. It is important to build our skills, learn our lessons, establish friendships, be allowed to make mistakes and make amends.  It is also important that our voices are heard too! This is where Teen Scribes comes in. It’s a forum where young people can share their thoughts and feelings safely... read more
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Relief, By Leslie Logan, Grade 8, Teen Scribe
As calm as a lady bug, as quiet as the snow drops, it is the serenity of how I feel. I bend down to re-tie the laces on my Chuck Taylor’s shoes when my cell phone rings. “Austyn, oh my God, you have to hurry!!!”. My twin sister Catalina is hysteric on the other end.  “Cat, where are you!? What’s wrong??!  “It’s Jake! He got hit by a car at papw’s, go to Fifth Street Medical Center, he is in the ER”... read more
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Congratulations, Christal!

Congratulations to Christal Smith in winning the Regional Power of the Pen Tournament and welcome to Teen Scribes!... read more
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The value of writing, by Elizabeth Horner
Thank you to the Early Bird Newspaper and County News Online for welcoming the Teen Scribes of Darke County and giving us a forum for our voices to be heard.  Teen Scribes wants to welcome students who want to try their hands in creative writing and journalism. Teen Scribes hopes that as a group, we can promote writing as a form of self expression, to become more familiar with our own thoughts, feelings... read more
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Preempting the New Year’s Resolution Madness - #3 Stick to a Budget, By Kayla Lemar, Teen Scribe
So it’s month number three in our journey to preempt the New Year’s Resolution madness.  What’s up next?  How to stick to a budget. There’s really no good reason not to live on a budget—not for anybody, no matter what age, unless you’re Donald Trump. Why?  Because unless you found gold while diving in the South Pacific, everyone has a limited amount of money, and has to live within... read more
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Computer on the Fritz, By Elizabeth Horner, Teen Scribe
Recently, I suffered a great loss, or at least it felt that way. Our home computer with internet access protracted the electronic version of severe stomach-flu virus that just won’t go away. I am without e-mail… fanfiction… and even plain old Google. We need to call the electronic doctor again, only after 3 days of what appeared to me to be a full recovery! It reminds me of the old saying that sometimes you... read more
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Empowerment, Notes on a Horner speech to “Circle of Empowered Women”
Skokie, Ill. - March 4, 2011 - “Recently, we witnessed people power at play in the streets of Cairo. I hope that with the changes in government in Egypt comes increased respect for basic human rights including those of women,” Elizabeth Horner commented. This eleventh grade student of Greenville Senior High was one of four guest speakers and the only youth to speak at the celebration of “International Women... read more
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World Changers, By Christy L. Riley, Teen Scribe
A world-changer is someone who makes a difference in the world. To be a world-changer, one does not need to be wealthy, born great, talented, famous, or anything else. All you truly need is to be yourself because you can be a world changer by making a difference in the smallest of things. Have you ever wanted to be a teacher yet learn at the same time? As a volunteer at the Darke County YMCA, I am able... read more
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Preempting the New Year’s Resolution Madness - #8 Fall In Love - By Kayla Lemar, Teen Scribe
It’s month two on our journey of Preempting the New Year’s Resolution Madness, and I know you must be heartbroken because I skipped six of the top 12 New Year’s Resolutions, but how many of us can honestly say weight loss and budgeting are on our minds when it’s almost Valentine’s Day?  They aren’t on this girl’s mind (That’s for sure.), because this is my first Valentine’s Day with a... read more
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Power of the Pen, by Elizabeth Horner
Greenville Junior High hosted this year’s “District Power of the Pen Competition”.  Thanks to the Greenville City School’s Board, Superintendent Susie Riegal and Principal David Peltz for their support and for allowing this event to take place in Greenville this year. Many thanks to: Mrs. Elaine Bailey for her tireless effort to support this program and coordinating this event; the Best of Round judges... read more
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Key Club - By Abby Kindley, Teen Scribe
High school is said to hold the key to opportunity. As I entered my first year in high school, I discovered that statement can be true in more ways than one. I found this out when I joined Greenville High School’s Key Club. Ever since the first Key Club started at Sacramento High School in Sacramento, California there have been wide outpourings of students signing up to join... read more
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Preempting the New Year’s Resolution Madness - #1 Quit Smoking, Before You Start
 By Kayla Lemar, Teen Scribe
 It's 2011.  And with it has come the long list of New Year's Resolutions each of us drafted during December. While drudging up a list of my own I did a little research on what everyone else in the world wanted to do with their 2011.  I found twelve priority resolutions that year after year people post on the web, write in their diaries... read more
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Alice in Wonderland: Child Fable or Secretly Sublime? By Dorothy Gilbert, Teen Scribe
Reverend Charles Lutwidge Dodgen published The Adventures of Alice in Wonderland in 1865. This children's book, thought notorious through the years, seems oddly sublime to some. Many assumptions have been made about Dodgen, presuming he was high or in a drunken stupor when writing the fable. Perhaps, with it being the 1800's, he was simply blind with ignorance and innocence... read more
Mississinawa Valley Experiments with E-Days By Dorothy Gilbert, Teen Scribe
With Darke County schools only being allowed three calamity days this year, Mississinawa Valley has decided to excel with the technological advancements and allow students two e-days. An e-day would be when students miss a fourth school day, they are able to go online to the school's website and complete an online lesson teachers have prepared. A survey was conducted and most MV students have internet access. To accommodate for those who don’t... read more
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Christmas Time by Elizabeth Horner, Teen Scribe
It is almost certain that by the time I wake up in the morning of December 12, 2010 I will be looking out at frozen surroundings.  It will be deceptively calm as I peep through my bedroom window.  Our yard will be beautifully landscaped with white fluffy stuff as the snow storm moves through our area. It is also going to be just a little over a week when I will be let out of school for the holidays... read more
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Living by the clock by Elizabeth Horner, Teen Scribe
What significance does the tick of the clock or the sand trickling through an hourglass have for anyone?  It is us humans that have created the concept of time.  Our advanced brains have given us the ability to affect nature--- to farm, to build, to invent machines--- and from that came our desire to structure our days... read more

 
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