Great Job Tiffany! This is a well thought out, well researched and very well written essay. All of the judges absolutely loved it! It is obvious you truly do admire Julia Childs. Keep cooking...and keep writing, both are talents you certainly seem to excel in! Kylie
Tiffany O.
Spring Creek Middle School
7th grade
If I could meet anyone in the world, from any country, during any time period, it would be Julia Childs. Julia Childs is a great role model and a lot like me. Julia was always happy, positive, and fearless, and of course loved to cook. Let me tell you why I think Julia Child represented these characteristics.
One: before she married Paul she was known as a very spontaneous, friendly party-girl; people adored her. Two: whenever Julia made a mistake on her show (The French Chef), she would simply put it back together. For instance, if she flipped an omelet and it fell apart, she would simply say, “Since you are in the kitchen, you can always put it back together, who is to see.” This is showing Julia Childs' positive attitude. Three: Julia Childs was fearless. During the war she got restless and decided to leave her comfortable home in California and join the WASP (Women Air Force Service Pilots). This was a program where women pilots scanned the air for enemy planes. Also, I don’t know about you, but anyone who can pierce a lobster between the eyes with a knife and not get sick or woozy is pretty fearless to me. Four: I would love to meet Julia Childs because she is a real chef, and I would enjoy learning from her. Not many people know this, but Julia was not always a chef. She spent most of her time avoiding cooking. To her it was a chore that was hard to master, but it was food that brought her and her husband together. They both shared the love of good cuisine.
Years into their marriage Paul and Julia moved to France. Julia was unable to have children and once again became antsy, so she started looking for a career. She thought it was about time she learned to cook, so she went to a cooking school called the "Cordon Bleu," where her whole life changed. Julia Childs took flight, and started to write her a cookbook with her two friends. “This is my advice to people, learn to cook, try new recipes, learn from your mistakes, be fearless and above all have fun!” said Julia Childs. Wouldn’t you want Julia Childs in your home? She could teach me so many things.
I would want Julia Childs to feel comfortable, so I would insist we meet at my house where I would invite her to come into the kitchen. I am sure Julia and I both share the love of the kitchen; it is a place where we can think, create, teach and say things out loud one might not otherwise say in front of others. You can create things in the kitchen that either turn out great or are a complete failure. But either way who’s to see your mistakes? The kitchen is not only a place to teach, but it is a place I learn. I learn coping skills, like when things don’t always go the way I want, I learn to manage. The kitchen is also a place to share your talents with others when you are done cooking, everyone loves to eat! This is why I think Julia Childs would feel most comfortable in the kitchen at my house.
Julia Childs would most likely be more comfortable if my kitchen were more like Julia’. I learned that Julia Child’s kitchen was designed by Paul to make it easy for Julia to have fun, stay organized and not be stressed out by the mess after cooking. The kitchen walls were a cream color and the cupboards were painted a greenish blue, easy to clean. On the right side of the room, one of the largest walls, there are many holes with hooks; each hook has a shape of a pot or pan traced around it so she knew where everything was. This was a great place for Julia to hang her kitchenware. There was also a large metal sink split into two sections, a white cutting board, an oven that was attached to a wall, and a circulator wooden table in the middle of the room with a tablecloth on top of the table for either meals or extra counter space. Julia donated her kitchen to the Smithsonian Museum in Washington, DC.
The first question I would ask Julia Childs is maybe something silly like, “What is your favorite thing to cook?” “What’s it like to be so tall?” Or, "what’s your middle name?” Maybe I would ask sophisticated questions such as, “How did the war affect your life?” “Why is it that you started out hating cooking?” “Did you ever have any other interests other than just cooking?” I may even ask questions about cooking. “How is it possible for tapioca pearls to create enough thickener for a pudding?” “What is the best recipe for French bread?” “What is yeast made out of?” “And how does it make bread rise.” But the first question I would ask would be, “What does it feel like when you have reached your goals and found success?”
I would like Julia to know how she changed American cooking and how she affected my life. Julia Childs was an amazing woman in many ways; she did things not just because she had to but because she enjoyed it! She loved life very much; Julia Childs shared her joy of life with others! Before Julia Childs came around with this amazingly yummy food, American food was becoming flash-frozen, pre-packaged, with one hundred ingredients that you can’t read, garbage! I call this the dark ages of American cuisine. Julia Childs accepted this remarkably hard challenge of changing food. Julia started by cooking a simple omelet for one of her books on a TV show called the WBYC. The people who lived in Boston loved it and wanted her back! Julia started her new show called “The French Chef.” On her show it was the real deal! Julia worked with huge chunks of fish, different types of chickens, fresh lobster, beautiful vegetables, and at the time rare onions. Americans loved her and her cooking. Julia set up these difficult recipe’s for home cooks so they could not fail. When “The French Chef” was over, she visited now-famous chefs in the area and interviewed them. Julia Childs brought back to life the joys of cooking.
Julia Childs affected my life because my family and I are extremely into cooking with fresh ingredients. Healthy comfort food is always on the table at night to warm our bellies and make us forget about the busy day behind us. All of my dreams are based on cooking. I am saving my money for college, practicing my skills on different types of ingredients, and even writing my own cook book. Julia Childs taught me to strive for my dreams, think big, to be fearless, to laugh always, to be able to cope with things when they go wrong, to be creative, to share what you love with others, and to never just sit and let life make all the decisions for you. But most of all she taught me to love cooking!
Friday, May 20, 2011
7th Grade Winner - George Washington
Great job Tanner! This was a well-researched, well thought out essay, and well worth the $100 prize! Although I have heard George Washinton was really intimidating, I'd like to meet him too. Kylie
Tanner H
WVMS 7TH
George Washington, A True Hero
If I could meet anyone in the world from any country in any time period, George Washington, the father of our country, is the person I would most want to meet. He led our country to victory in the Revolutionary War and he asked for no pay. He served as the first president of the United States and set the standard for all the rest of the presidents. He left his beloved plantation behind for many years to serve his country.
He was brave, courteous, and kind. He even wrote some standards about what a well-mannered gentleman should do. For example, one of his rules was “show not yourself glad at the misfortune of another though he were your enemy.” Another one is “Be not hasty to believe flying reports to the disparagement of any.” These show that he had great respect for others. One of my favorite of his rules is “When a man does all he can, though it succeed not well, blame not him that did it.”
He also treated his slaves with respect and kindness (unlike some people at that time). He arranged for his slaves to be freed when he died. He was a great American, and I look up to him. He was smart and tactical and he was determined. On Christmas day he led his troops to attack the Hessians (German troops hired by the British to fight for them). They crossed icy rivers and treacherous, snow covered land. Some of his troops didn’t even have shoes and had to wrap their feet with cloth. Yet George Washington and his troops pressed forward and completely took them by surprise. Some of the Hessians didn’t even have their pants on. He conquered them quickly and few escaped. He led our country to victory during the last battle of the Revolutionary War, the Battle of York Town. He got the French to help him with that battle.
George Washington was very smart. In fact, he became the first American president. He won with every vote. He was a true hero. He was well respected by almost everybody both in the Revolutionary War and as the first President of the United States. It would be great to meet George Washington.
I would want George Washington to feel comfortable so I would insist that we meet at Mount Vernon. It was his home and I am sure he would be most comfortable there. He always loved to go there. He used to farm on Mount Vernon. I think George Washington would like my choice. His mansion on Mount Vernon had twenty rooms and was 2 ½ stories tall. It was made of wood. That is a pretty impressive house especially for that day.
Mount Vernon got its name from his half-brother’s commander. He loved and respected his half-brother, Lawrence, who later died of tuberculosis. He tried to move to a warmer climate to improve his health, but he died anyway. Lawrence had a commander in the British army and his title was Admiral Edward Vernon. That is where Mount Vernon got its name.
The landscaping at Mount Vernon is also beautiful. The estate covers about 502 acres. It is covered by green lawn, flowers and trees. George Washington, himself, planted a majority of the trees. So he put lots of hard work and effort into his home and property and his farm.
The first thing I would ask George Washington would be political advice. In a few years I will be voting and I want to make the right choices. I am sure he would give good advice because he was the first president and he helped get this county get started. He knows and understands the constitution and the principles that our country was founded on. He knows why he fought so hard for these things. I am sure he would give me good advice because so many brave lives were lost in starting our government and the defense of our country. For this reason, I can’t afford to make a mistake in how I vote.
Another of my many questions would be what his policy would be on when we should go to war. Should we only go to war in the defense of our country? Should we help other countries or allies out? Should we help small countries who cannot defend themselves and are getting conquered? Should we help rebellions against a bad government, like the French helped us? Or should we do none of these, and do you have a different suggestion?
I would want like George Washington to know how his life changed the world. I would show him a map of the United States. This would show him what America has become because of what he started. I also think he would be interested in seeing Mount Rushmore where his face is carved in the rock along with other great presidents. I would also like to show him the Washington Monument to tell of the great respect and love that people have for him and for all that he has done for our country. I would like him to meet the current President of the United States so he could give President Obama some advice. I would like to show him that many of his policies are still in place, like a president serving only two terms. There is still a president’s cabinet, which he started.
Most of all, I would like to thank George Washington for all of the great service he gave to start our country. I think that sometimes we don’t realize what George Washington and our other forefathers sacrificed to start this great country where we can live without fear of the government or mistreatment by them. So when you think about hero, remember George Washington, a true hero.
Tanner H
WVMS 7TH
George Washington, A True Hero
If I could meet anyone in the world from any country in any time period, George Washington, the father of our country, is the person I would most want to meet. He led our country to victory in the Revolutionary War and he asked for no pay. He served as the first president of the United States and set the standard for all the rest of the presidents. He left his beloved plantation behind for many years to serve his country.
He was brave, courteous, and kind. He even wrote some standards about what a well-mannered gentleman should do. For example, one of his rules was “show not yourself glad at the misfortune of another though he were your enemy.” Another one is “Be not hasty to believe flying reports to the disparagement of any.” These show that he had great respect for others. One of my favorite of his rules is “When a man does all he can, though it succeed not well, blame not him that did it.”
He also treated his slaves with respect and kindness (unlike some people at that time). He arranged for his slaves to be freed when he died. He was a great American, and I look up to him. He was smart and tactical and he was determined. On Christmas day he led his troops to attack the Hessians (German troops hired by the British to fight for them). They crossed icy rivers and treacherous, snow covered land. Some of his troops didn’t even have shoes and had to wrap their feet with cloth. Yet George Washington and his troops pressed forward and completely took them by surprise. Some of the Hessians didn’t even have their pants on. He conquered them quickly and few escaped. He led our country to victory during the last battle of the Revolutionary War, the Battle of York Town. He got the French to help him with that battle.
George Washington was very smart. In fact, he became the first American president. He won with every vote. He was a true hero. He was well respected by almost everybody both in the Revolutionary War and as the first President of the United States. It would be great to meet George Washington.
I would want George Washington to feel comfortable so I would insist that we meet at Mount Vernon. It was his home and I am sure he would be most comfortable there. He always loved to go there. He used to farm on Mount Vernon. I think George Washington would like my choice. His mansion on Mount Vernon had twenty rooms and was 2 ½ stories tall. It was made of wood. That is a pretty impressive house especially for that day.
Mount Vernon got its name from his half-brother’s commander. He loved and respected his half-brother, Lawrence, who later died of tuberculosis. He tried to move to a warmer climate to improve his health, but he died anyway. Lawrence had a commander in the British army and his title was Admiral Edward Vernon. That is where Mount Vernon got its name.
The landscaping at Mount Vernon is also beautiful. The estate covers about 502 acres. It is covered by green lawn, flowers and trees. George Washington, himself, planted a majority of the trees. So he put lots of hard work and effort into his home and property and his farm.
The first thing I would ask George Washington would be political advice. In a few years I will be voting and I want to make the right choices. I am sure he would give good advice because he was the first president and he helped get this county get started. He knows and understands the constitution and the principles that our country was founded on. He knows why he fought so hard for these things. I am sure he would give me good advice because so many brave lives were lost in starting our government and the defense of our country. For this reason, I can’t afford to make a mistake in how I vote.
Another of my many questions would be what his policy would be on when we should go to war. Should we only go to war in the defense of our country? Should we help other countries or allies out? Should we help small countries who cannot defend themselves and are getting conquered? Should we help rebellions against a bad government, like the French helped us? Or should we do none of these, and do you have a different suggestion?
I would want like George Washington to know how his life changed the world. I would show him a map of the United States. This would show him what America has become because of what he started. I also think he would be interested in seeing Mount Rushmore where his face is carved in the rock along with other great presidents. I would also like to show him the Washington Monument to tell of the great respect and love that people have for him and for all that he has done for our country. I would like him to meet the current President of the United States so he could give President Obama some advice. I would like to show him that many of his policies are still in place, like a president serving only two terms. There is still a president’s cabinet, which he started.
Most of all, I would like to thank George Washington for all of the great service he gave to start our country. I think that sometimes we don’t realize what George Washington and our other forefathers sacrificed to start this great country where we can live without fear of the government or mistreatment by them. So when you think about hero, remember George Washington, a true hero.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
6th Grade Honorable Mention - JK Rowling
I received a lot of essays about JK Rowling. This one rose to the top of the pile. Great Job Sarah! This was a great essay. I hope you continue to follow your dreams and continue to write, you certainly have the gift! Kylie
Sarah
Ecker Hill International Middle School
Sixth Grade
Her Spellbinding Story
This woman started out writing her bestselling series on napkins and later became the first billionaire writer. If I could meet anyone in the world, from any country, during any time period, it would be J.K. Rowling. I would like to meet her because she inspires me every day, as she was the creator of the Harry Potter series. Harry Potter is a seven book series about a young boy who discovers he is a wizard and enrolls in, and is accepted into, Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, which is the best school around. During the series, Harry fights evil, grows up, makes friends, and finds love, all while going through the process of becoming a powerful wizard.
While writing the books, J.K. Rowling was also going through her own personal struggles as a single mom who was striving to pay her bills, and an author endeavoring to get her works published. J.K. Rowling had her manuscript turned down twelve times before it was finally published! “It took a year for my new agent, Christopher, to find a publisher. Lots of them turned it down. Then, finally, in August 1996, Christopher telephoned me and told me that Bloomsbury had made an offer. I could not quite believe my ears. ‘You mean it’s going to be published?’ I asked, rather stupidly. ‘It’s definitely going to be published.’ After I had hung up, I screamed and jumped into the air; Jessica, who was sitting in her high chair enjoying tea, looked thoroughly scared,” from jkrowling.com. Talk about persevering! I think that it would be an awe-inspiring experience to meet the person who is responsible for my favorite books (that I’ve read four times each), my favorite movies (all of which I own), and my favorite game to play with my Harry Potter-crazy friend, Beth, and my brother Alex. I would be honored to get the chance to meet one of my idols in person!
First of all, I would want J.K. Rowling to feel comfortable, so I would insist that we meet at Nicolson's Café. I know that this is a place where she would feel comfortable meeting at because it is the café that she would go to regularly to write the Harry Potter stories. J.K. Rowling decided to write there because she would not have to heat her house and could stay at Nicolson's Café for hours for the price of one espresso (wikipedia.com on Nicolson's Café). She was a single mom who was watching her money after all. I found it interesting that J.K. Rowling thought up the idea of Harry Potter on a train, even though she wrote most of the book in Nicolson's Café. I can picture me sitting at her favorite spot, looking out a window, waiting for her to arrive. It would be fascinating to see the place where she put in long hours to write this fantastic series. The part that I think is the most captivating about J.K. Rowling when she went to Nicolson’s Café was that she would write Harry Potter longhand — not on a computer; nothing technical. Pen and paper. Now that is something that I know I wouldn’t be able to do.
In addition, the first question I would ask J.K. Rowling is, “Are you planning on writing another book or series after Harry Potter?” I would ask her this because I enjoyed the Harry Potter series so much, and she is a superior writer. I love the way she develops the characters in the Harry Potter series, how she can make me laugh out loud one moment and cry the next, and the fact that she can make me envision something in my mind without getting too descriptive. I would be so disappointed if she didn’t compose another book. However, according to brainquote.com, J.K. Rowling says, “I will carry on writing, to be sure. But I don't know if I would want to publish again after Harry Potter.” This makes me woebegone because I think J.K. Rowling has so much talent in writing, and I think that a lot of people will be disappointed if she decides she’s finished. Neverthelsss, I have read from other sources that she is considering writing an eighth Harry Potter book. Even so, the story would not be about Harry, and she would not start writing it for quite a while. I would enjoy talking to her about the development and completion of the characters, and if she misses them. I think it would be fun to talk about which characters she liked to write about the best, and if she was satisfied with the way they turned out. `
Finally, I would like J.K. Rowling to know how her life changed history. Her books opened up the fantasy genre in young adult literature like no one before her. The Harry Potter series led the way for additional book series like Fablehaven, Inkheart, Eragon, and the Alchemyst, all of them published after Harry Potter. For people everywhere, young and old, Harry Potter got us reading and wanting to be writers. The seven book series appealed to such a large audience that over 400 million copies have been sold (as of 2008) and have been translated into over 67 different languages.
As for me, Harry Potter has inspired me to be creative and showed me the meaning of friendship. As a writer, J.K. Rowling has motivated me to consider taking some creative writing classes and I have often thought about a career in writing. J.K. Rowling has showed me just how imaginative I can be, and that the sky is the limit when it comes to my creativity. This is why I chose her — not a popular singer, not some famous movie star — Joanne Kathleen Rowling.
Sarah
Ecker Hill International Middle School
Sixth Grade
Her Spellbinding Story
This woman started out writing her bestselling series on napkins and later became the first billionaire writer. If I could meet anyone in the world, from any country, during any time period, it would be J.K. Rowling. I would like to meet her because she inspires me every day, as she was the creator of the Harry Potter series. Harry Potter is a seven book series about a young boy who discovers he is a wizard and enrolls in, and is accepted into, Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, which is the best school around. During the series, Harry fights evil, grows up, makes friends, and finds love, all while going through the process of becoming a powerful wizard.
While writing the books, J.K. Rowling was also going through her own personal struggles as a single mom who was striving to pay her bills, and an author endeavoring to get her works published. J.K. Rowling had her manuscript turned down twelve times before it was finally published! “It took a year for my new agent, Christopher, to find a publisher. Lots of them turned it down. Then, finally, in August 1996, Christopher telephoned me and told me that Bloomsbury had made an offer. I could not quite believe my ears. ‘You mean it’s going to be published?’ I asked, rather stupidly. ‘It’s definitely going to be published.’ After I had hung up, I screamed and jumped into the air; Jessica, who was sitting in her high chair enjoying tea, looked thoroughly scared,” from jkrowling.com. Talk about persevering! I think that it would be an awe-inspiring experience to meet the person who is responsible for my favorite books (that I’ve read four times each), my favorite movies (all of which I own), and my favorite game to play with my Harry Potter-crazy friend, Beth, and my brother Alex. I would be honored to get the chance to meet one of my idols in person!
First of all, I would want J.K. Rowling to feel comfortable, so I would insist that we meet at Nicolson's Café. I know that this is a place where she would feel comfortable meeting at because it is the café that she would go to regularly to write the Harry Potter stories. J.K. Rowling decided to write there because she would not have to heat her house and could stay at Nicolson's Café for hours for the price of one espresso (wikipedia.com on Nicolson's Café). She was a single mom who was watching her money after all. I found it interesting that J.K. Rowling thought up the idea of Harry Potter on a train, even though she wrote most of the book in Nicolson's Café. I can picture me sitting at her favorite spot, looking out a window, waiting for her to arrive. It would be fascinating to see the place where she put in long hours to write this fantastic series. The part that I think is the most captivating about J.K. Rowling when she went to Nicolson’s Café was that she would write Harry Potter longhand — not on a computer; nothing technical. Pen and paper. Now that is something that I know I wouldn’t be able to do.
In addition, the first question I would ask J.K. Rowling is, “Are you planning on writing another book or series after Harry Potter?” I would ask her this because I enjoyed the Harry Potter series so much, and she is a superior writer. I love the way she develops the characters in the Harry Potter series, how she can make me laugh out loud one moment and cry the next, and the fact that she can make me envision something in my mind without getting too descriptive. I would be so disappointed if she didn’t compose another book. However, according to brainquote.com, J.K. Rowling says, “I will carry on writing, to be sure. But I don't know if I would want to publish again after Harry Potter.” This makes me woebegone because I think J.K. Rowling has so much talent in writing, and I think that a lot of people will be disappointed if she decides she’s finished. Neverthelsss, I have read from other sources that she is considering writing an eighth Harry Potter book. Even so, the story would not be about Harry, and she would not start writing it for quite a while. I would enjoy talking to her about the development and completion of the characters, and if she misses them. I think it would be fun to talk about which characters she liked to write about the best, and if she was satisfied with the way they turned out. `
Finally, I would like J.K. Rowling to know how her life changed history. Her books opened up the fantasy genre in young adult literature like no one before her. The Harry Potter series led the way for additional book series like Fablehaven, Inkheart, Eragon, and the Alchemyst, all of them published after Harry Potter. For people everywhere, young and old, Harry Potter got us reading and wanting to be writers. The seven book series appealed to such a large audience that over 400 million copies have been sold (as of 2008) and have been translated into over 67 different languages.
As for me, Harry Potter has inspired me to be creative and showed me the meaning of friendship. As a writer, J.K. Rowling has motivated me to consider taking some creative writing classes and I have often thought about a career in writing. J.K. Rowling has showed me just how imaginative I can be, and that the sky is the limit when it comes to my creativity. This is why I chose her — not a popular singer, not some famous movie star — Joanne Kathleen Rowling.
6th Grade Honorable Mention - Archimedes
This writing competition is difficult to judge, because many, many essays were very well researched and very well written. Spencer's essay on Archimedes must be included in the best of the best. Great Job Spencer, this is awesome. Kylie
Spencer
Ecker Hill
6th Grade
If I Could Meet Anyone...
If I could meet anyone in the world, from any country, during any time period, it would be Archimedes. I want to meet Archimedes because he is one of the greatest mathematicians of all time. Archimedes was also a physicist, engineer, inventor, and astronomer. He discovered and created many things in his lifetime. His discoveries were even more miraculous considering he lived in Ancient Greece.
I would want Archimedes to feel comfortable so I would insist we meet at Syracuse, Sicily. It is important we meet here because when he was alive people didn’t know about the new world. I wouldn’t want to overwhelm him with a lot of new sights. Archimedes lived in Syracuse for most his life. If we met there he might even be able to find some buried historical sites. I could also ease Archimedes into modern life. I wouldn’t want to take Archimedes to his house though, he was killed there by a Roman soldier who didn’t know who he was.
I would then show him modern day cars and odometers. He invented the first odometer so he would be fascinated by modern day ones. I would then show him images of outer space on the internet so he could see what astronomers now days do, him being an astronomer and all.
The first question I would ask Archimedes is, if there was anything he’d invented or discovered that was never recorded. I would ask that question because it could change history, if someone stole one of his ideas they could be credited for it. It could also change some of the modern day theories. Who know’s he may have discovered some freaky source of fuel that is twice as efficient as fossil fuels. He might have invented a machine to make metal twice as strong, it may have been destroyed when Syracuse was overrun by Romans. I would also ask him if there was anything he could tell us about history. I would ask that question because people don’t know that much about history. He might say that the Persians conquered India but where driven back by war elephants. He might say that there was actually was a library full of secret documents about Atlantis and aliens, under the Sphinx.
The third question I would ask Archimedes would be how was life in ancient Greece. This question is personal, I am really fascinated by ancient Greece and Sparta. The other two questions were for the sake of history. I’d really like to see a window into the past, he might even be able to right some really good books. We’d have to translate them from Ancient Greek into English. That question would also help more people understand Ancient Greece as well.
Those are just some of the many, many, many questions I would ask the great mathematician Archimedes, if I ever met him.
I would like Archimedes to know how his life changed history. Archimedes changed the world in many ways, probably the most famous way was by creating a way of formulating the mass of an irregular shape. There is a story that goes along with his formula. The king of Syracuse had a crown, he wanted to find out how much gold was in it, but he couldn't damage the crown. The king decided to go to the brilliant Archimedes. Archimedes couldn’t think of a way to find out the crown’s mass. So he decided to take a bath, as he got into it he noticed that the water rose. Then he realized he could use the same technique to find out the crowns volume. That is the same technique we use nowadays to calculate the volume of an irregular shape.
Archimedes also created the Archimedes screw, an efficient way to raise water. It is a revolving screw shaped blade inside a cylinder. You turn a crank at the bottom to make the screw turn and it moves the water up the pipe. The Archimedes screw pump is still used today to move solids like coal and grain. It was used to irrigate the Hanging Gardens of Babylon as well.
Archimedes created the odometer. If he had not invented the odometer the world would be at a loss and it would be much harder to take a car into a body shop for an annual repair. Nowadays people take their cars in every time it has another 5,000 miles and without the odometer we wouldn’t be able to do that. He originally put it on a cart attached with a gear mechanism that dropped a ball into the container every mile. I do not know why he created the odometer considering you don’t need to repair a wagon until it breaks. People might have just thought it cool back then. His invention of the odometer changed the world as we know it.
Archimedes invented the block and tackle pulley system too. It is when one uses two pulleys and a rope to lift heavy objects. That technique is often used today to lift heavy objects as well. It is most often used on boats. In conclusion, that is how Archimedes changed the world.
Now you can obviously see why if I could meet anybody in the world it’d Archimedes.
Spencer
Ecker Hill
6th Grade
If I Could Meet Anyone...
If I could meet anyone in the world, from any country, during any time period, it would be Archimedes. I want to meet Archimedes because he is one of the greatest mathematicians of all time. Archimedes was also a physicist, engineer, inventor, and astronomer. He discovered and created many things in his lifetime. His discoveries were even more miraculous considering he lived in Ancient Greece.
I would want Archimedes to feel comfortable so I would insist we meet at Syracuse, Sicily. It is important we meet here because when he was alive people didn’t know about the new world. I wouldn’t want to overwhelm him with a lot of new sights. Archimedes lived in Syracuse for most his life. If we met there he might even be able to find some buried historical sites. I could also ease Archimedes into modern life. I wouldn’t want to take Archimedes to his house though, he was killed there by a Roman soldier who didn’t know who he was.
I would then show him modern day cars and odometers. He invented the first odometer so he would be fascinated by modern day ones. I would then show him images of outer space on the internet so he could see what astronomers now days do, him being an astronomer and all.
The first question I would ask Archimedes is, if there was anything he’d invented or discovered that was never recorded. I would ask that question because it could change history, if someone stole one of his ideas they could be credited for it. It could also change some of the modern day theories. Who know’s he may have discovered some freaky source of fuel that is twice as efficient as fossil fuels. He might have invented a machine to make metal twice as strong, it may have been destroyed when Syracuse was overrun by Romans. I would also ask him if there was anything he could tell us about history. I would ask that question because people don’t know that much about history. He might say that the Persians conquered India but where driven back by war elephants. He might say that there was actually was a library full of secret documents about Atlantis and aliens, under the Sphinx.
The third question I would ask Archimedes would be how was life in ancient Greece. This question is personal, I am really fascinated by ancient Greece and Sparta. The other two questions were for the sake of history. I’d really like to see a window into the past, he might even be able to right some really good books. We’d have to translate them from Ancient Greek into English. That question would also help more people understand Ancient Greece as well.
Those are just some of the many, many, many questions I would ask the great mathematician Archimedes, if I ever met him.
I would like Archimedes to know how his life changed history. Archimedes changed the world in many ways, probably the most famous way was by creating a way of formulating the mass of an irregular shape. There is a story that goes along with his formula. The king of Syracuse had a crown, he wanted to find out how much gold was in it, but he couldn't damage the crown. The king decided to go to the brilliant Archimedes. Archimedes couldn’t think of a way to find out the crown’s mass. So he decided to take a bath, as he got into it he noticed that the water rose. Then he realized he could use the same technique to find out the crowns volume. That is the same technique we use nowadays to calculate the volume of an irregular shape.
Archimedes also created the Archimedes screw, an efficient way to raise water. It is a revolving screw shaped blade inside a cylinder. You turn a crank at the bottom to make the screw turn and it moves the water up the pipe. The Archimedes screw pump is still used today to move solids like coal and grain. It was used to irrigate the Hanging Gardens of Babylon as well.
Archimedes created the odometer. If he had not invented the odometer the world would be at a loss and it would be much harder to take a car into a body shop for an annual repair. Nowadays people take their cars in every time it has another 5,000 miles and without the odometer we wouldn’t be able to do that. He originally put it on a cart attached with a gear mechanism that dropped a ball into the container every mile. I do not know why he created the odometer considering you don’t need to repair a wagon until it breaks. People might have just thought it cool back then. His invention of the odometer changed the world as we know it.
Archimedes invented the block and tackle pulley system too. It is when one uses two pulleys and a rope to lift heavy objects. That technique is often used today to lift heavy objects as well. It is most often used on boats. In conclusion, that is how Archimedes changed the world.
Now you can obviously see why if I could meet anybody in the world it’d Archimedes.
6th Grade, 5th Place, Jesus Christ
This is a sweet, heartfelt essay, beautifully written and simple in its message. Nice job Jacquel, keep up the good work. Kylie
Jacquel
Lava Ridge Intermediate
6th grade
If I could meet anyone, it would be...
If I could meet anyone in the world, from any country, during any time period, it would be the Savior of the World, Jesus Christ. I want to meet Jesus Christ because He is the one person who is pure in heart, unforgettably perfect, and understands who I truly am.
I would want Jesus to feel comfortable, so I would insist we meet at the manger where He was born. This manger is very important to Jesus and me. This is the place where He entered into the world. The place where His parents showered Him with love and hope. This is the place where everyone came who saw the sign of His coming.
The first question I would ask Jesus is “How does it feel to know you helped so many people reach their goals and to see the path they should follow?” I would ask this question because it touches my heart deeply. Jesus spent His whole life telling people what’s good and bad, right and wrong, and which way to go. He taught the people that wanted to learn about the gospel and how there is really only one mighty God. Most people didn’t believe Him at first, but He never stopped trying. I would ask Him a few other questions such as “How does it feel to be perfect in every way and be the good example?” and “Your love for us is so strong that you would die on the cross and take upon all the sins in the world for us, why would you do that for mankind?” I do know that Jesus loves us with all of his heart and will never stop. He is perfect in a way I will never know and cannot describe on paper.
I would like Jesus to know how His life and decisions have changed history entirely. Like how Jesus started Christianity in Roman province of Palestine or as we know of it today Jordan and Israel, and how He preached about forgiveness and mercy. He taught the Romans and Greeks of the one mighty God. He also taught people of the Ten Commandments. He said that if people followed what He said and believe in God they would go to heaven. Jesus has affected me by leading and guiding me away from sin; He has affected my family by showing us love and helping us know what to do; He has affected my community by introducing church, which church is true, and to join; and the most important of all He has affected the world by giving us scriptures which are called the Bible and the Book of Mormon and also sending out personal missionaries to teach those who are blind and need a boost in the right direction.
I know that sometimes it’s hard to stay away from temptations and you so badly want to do things that Jesus and God ask us not to do. If you plan out your life wisely and try to stay away from things that tempt you most, I believe that all of us will go to heaven. A few examples to stay away from are watching bad T.V. shows, looking at bad stuff on the computer or swearing. Another example is sometimes people gossip and it really hurts others feelings. So next time if your friend is talking badly about someone, just walk away. If we lose our way in sin, you will always be able to find the right path and get back on track. As humans, let’s make the best of life and do what feels right in our hearts. Jesus has taught me already to accept people as they are and love everyone, even if they do look a little funny or don’t dress as nicely as everyone else. Jesus loves everyone equally even if the person right next to you has sinned more than you have, Jesus still loves you both the same. Don’t put people down to make yourself feel better than them, just make the best of your day and restart tomorrow. Nobody’s perfect except for Jesus Christ, the first son of God. We all are brothers and sisters trying to get back to Heaven to live with our brother Jesus Christ and our Heavenly Father.
Some kids have never heard of the name Jesus Christ. So one day I would like to possibly go on a mission and serve somewhere in the world to people that don’t know about the Gospel. I know that Jesus Christ died for all of us, and that our life here on earth is not just about money, T.V., electronics, or any other earthly possession. When we all go to heaven, your going to need to leave the X box, Wii, and DS behind. Deep in everyone’s hearts, we know it’s true, that living here on earth is not about worldly items, its about getting back to Heavenly Father.
Have you ever had that really strong, warm, tingly feeling in your heart? That is the Holy Ghost speaking to you. That warm sensation is telling you this is true. That what I am saying is right. That Christ is really there and loves us all. And I know that we really have to prove ourselves to Jesus if we are worthy enough to go to heaven.
Jesus Christ is so special. Who wouldn’t want to talk to the one man that matters the most? The one person that understands it all, the one person who understands me, and accepts me for who I am. The person who loves me incredibly and loves you too. The one person who all His life worried about you and what you really cared about here on earth. Don’t you think He matters? Don’t you think you could try to follow Him, to at least try to pay Him back for all He did for you and me? He is the one true Savior. No one could have done a better job than Him.
The life of a baby born in a manger with loving and caring parents to teach Him and guide him ended up turning into a man who saved the world from sin by sacrificing Himself on the cross for us. That shows unconditional love from Jesus to us. I know that my Savior loves me, and that the scriptures are true. That one day I really will be able to have a private conversation with Jesus Christ. If I could talk to one person privately about anything, I know I would automatically choose Jesus the Son of God, my beloved brother, and the true Messiah.
Jacquel
Lava Ridge Intermediate
6th grade
If I could meet anyone, it would be...
If I could meet anyone in the world, from any country, during any time period, it would be the Savior of the World, Jesus Christ. I want to meet Jesus Christ because He is the one person who is pure in heart, unforgettably perfect, and understands who I truly am.
I would want Jesus to feel comfortable, so I would insist we meet at the manger where He was born. This manger is very important to Jesus and me. This is the place where He entered into the world. The place where His parents showered Him with love and hope. This is the place where everyone came who saw the sign of His coming.
The first question I would ask Jesus is “How does it feel to know you helped so many people reach their goals and to see the path they should follow?” I would ask this question because it touches my heart deeply. Jesus spent His whole life telling people what’s good and bad, right and wrong, and which way to go. He taught the people that wanted to learn about the gospel and how there is really only one mighty God. Most people didn’t believe Him at first, but He never stopped trying. I would ask Him a few other questions such as “How does it feel to be perfect in every way and be the good example?” and “Your love for us is so strong that you would die on the cross and take upon all the sins in the world for us, why would you do that for mankind?” I do know that Jesus loves us with all of his heart and will never stop. He is perfect in a way I will never know and cannot describe on paper.
I would like Jesus to know how His life and decisions have changed history entirely. Like how Jesus started Christianity in Roman province of Palestine or as we know of it today Jordan and Israel, and how He preached about forgiveness and mercy. He taught the Romans and Greeks of the one mighty God. He also taught people of the Ten Commandments. He said that if people followed what He said and believe in God they would go to heaven. Jesus has affected me by leading and guiding me away from sin; He has affected my family by showing us love and helping us know what to do; He has affected my community by introducing church, which church is true, and to join; and the most important of all He has affected the world by giving us scriptures which are called the Bible and the Book of Mormon and also sending out personal missionaries to teach those who are blind and need a boost in the right direction.
I know that sometimes it’s hard to stay away from temptations and you so badly want to do things that Jesus and God ask us not to do. If you plan out your life wisely and try to stay away from things that tempt you most, I believe that all of us will go to heaven. A few examples to stay away from are watching bad T.V. shows, looking at bad stuff on the computer or swearing. Another example is sometimes people gossip and it really hurts others feelings. So next time if your friend is talking badly about someone, just walk away. If we lose our way in sin, you will always be able to find the right path and get back on track. As humans, let’s make the best of life and do what feels right in our hearts. Jesus has taught me already to accept people as they are and love everyone, even if they do look a little funny or don’t dress as nicely as everyone else. Jesus loves everyone equally even if the person right next to you has sinned more than you have, Jesus still loves you both the same. Don’t put people down to make yourself feel better than them, just make the best of your day and restart tomorrow. Nobody’s perfect except for Jesus Christ, the first son of God. We all are brothers and sisters trying to get back to Heaven to live with our brother Jesus Christ and our Heavenly Father.
Some kids have never heard of the name Jesus Christ. So one day I would like to possibly go on a mission and serve somewhere in the world to people that don’t know about the Gospel. I know that Jesus Christ died for all of us, and that our life here on earth is not just about money, T.V., electronics, or any other earthly possession. When we all go to heaven, your going to need to leave the X box, Wii, and DS behind. Deep in everyone’s hearts, we know it’s true, that living here on earth is not about worldly items, its about getting back to Heavenly Father.
Have you ever had that really strong, warm, tingly feeling in your heart? That is the Holy Ghost speaking to you. That warm sensation is telling you this is true. That what I am saying is right. That Christ is really there and loves us all. And I know that we really have to prove ourselves to Jesus if we are worthy enough to go to heaven.
Jesus Christ is so special. Who wouldn’t want to talk to the one man that matters the most? The one person that understands it all, the one person who understands me, and accepts me for who I am. The person who loves me incredibly and loves you too. The one person who all His life worried about you and what you really cared about here on earth. Don’t you think He matters? Don’t you think you could try to follow Him, to at least try to pay Him back for all He did for you and me? He is the one true Savior. No one could have done a better job than Him.
The life of a baby born in a manger with loving and caring parents to teach Him and guide him ended up turning into a man who saved the world from sin by sacrificing Himself on the cross for us. That shows unconditional love from Jesus to us. I know that my Savior loves me, and that the scriptures are true. That one day I really will be able to have a private conversation with Jesus Christ. If I could talk to one person privately about anything, I know I would automatically choose Jesus the Son of God, my beloved brother, and the true Messiah.
6th Grade, 4th Place, Sonia Delaunay
Great Job Julia! Well researched, well written, and an interesting essay on a person I had never heard of before. You should be very proud of yourself. Kylie
Julia
Ecker Hill International Middle School
6th Grade
A Bold and Unique Artist
Have you ever seen any dazzling, vivid, exhilarating paintings? Have you seen the hues pop out at you, brilliant and glowing with colors? Have you detected the bold circles and squares that scream out, “Look at me?” These are the paintings of Sonia Delaunay.
If I could meet anyone in the world, from any country, during any time period, it would be Sonia Delaunay. I wamt to meet Sonia because she has created beautiful, alluring, contemporary paintings. It would be amazing to converse with such an amazing artist! She was known for working a lot with geometric shapes and bright colors.
Firstly, as Leonardo da Vinci said, “He who loves practice without theory is like the sailor who boards a ship without a rudder and compass and never knows where he may cast.” Sonia existed a little like this. For a part of her life, she didn’t quite know what her style was, so she created a large variety of paintings.
Plus, do you know how interesting Sonia’s life was? She lived in six countries(Ukraine, Germany, France, Russia, Spain and Portugal), was married twice (first to a man named Wilhelm Uhde, then to Robert Delaunay, who she spent most of her life with), and painted multitudes of abstract art, including Rythme, Matra M530A, Blanket, Disk, Bal Bullier, Electric Prisms, Marketplace at Minho, Rythem Couleur, Philomene, Circus, Finnish Landscape, and Ville de Paris. Another one of Sonia’s achievements was she cofounded the Orphism Art Movement, which emphasized abstraction and bright colors (Wikipedia). I would want to learn about Sonia’s life and how it lead to her becoming such a talented artist. I really enjoy doing art, and it would be amazing to get tips on how to create my own art from an awe-inspiring artist like Sonia!
Moreover, I would want Sonia to feel comfortable, so I would insist that we meet at Sonia’s home in Paris, where she spent some of her happiest years. Do you know how much time Sonia spent undergoing good times at her home? A home provides good times the way an umbrella provides shelter from rain. Sonia’s home in Paris was the place where Sonia enjoyed life with her husband, Robert Delaunay, and her son, Charles for almost 30 years. Vincent Van Gogh said, “An artist needn’t be a clergyman or a churchwarden, but he certainly must have a warm heart for his fellow men.” Sonia was very passionate for her family in this way and spent many happy years tending to her relations and painting during her years in her Paris home. She would feel at ease because of her memories of joyful times there. During Sonia’s life in Paris, she fabricated many stylish dresses as well as trinkets for her family’s home. That was also the time she started exploring color. I think that if we met at Sonia’s home in Paris, she would certainly feel secure!
The first question I would ask Sonia is, “How do you feel about your paintings?” I would inquire this because I am very interested in Sonia’s opinion of her own works of art. I know that Sonia always thought she was working in her husband’s shadow because he was a very popular and skilled artist. I would love to know what Sonia thought of her own paintings and skills as an artist, since her husband was always more famous than her. Do you know how terrible it would feel to perceive that your relative is more eminent than you are? It is most definitely not a good feeling. One time, my younger sister and I went on a ropes course. My sister was better than I was at it, so she got much more attention. I definitely know what it feels like to be left in the shadows!
On another hand, I would adore to know what inspired Sonia to paint in the abstract, contemporary way she did. It’s extremely different than most other works of art I have seen before. It’s such an interesting, cubist type of art! Yes, it would be amazing to learn the secrets behind Sonia’s paintings.
Lastly, I would like Sonia to know how her life changed history. Thanks to Sonia’s help, the Orphism Art Movement occurred. Sonia’s paintings have also inspired many young artists to paint, including me. Thanks to Sonia, inspiration aroused inside of me to become a contemporary artist like her.
I also want Sonia to know that her art is important! She generated an abundance of delightful paintings! Since Sonia always believed she was working in her husband’s shadow, I want her to know that her paintings are just as great. Sonia accomplished things that her husband never did. For example, Sonia was a fashion designer for a part of her life! Her husband never did that. I would love to obtain fame through fashion design! I really want Sonia to understand how her work was better than she thought. According to Andy Warhol, “Everyone will be famous for 15 minutes.” I want to tell Sonia that she was famous longer than that. She has been commemorated for almost 100 years, and she is still remembered today! I would love to tell her that her works of art do have importance in our world. Her art has been appreciated for numerous years, and I think that Sonia should know that!
In conclusion, Sonia Delaunay was an amazing person! Her art was phenomenal, her life was fantastic, and she should never be forgotten. I would love to chat with an artist with so many interesting experiences in life. I think I could really learn a lot from her. If I got the opportunity to ever meet this unique artist, I would absolutely jump with jubilation!
Julia
Ecker Hill International Middle School
6th Grade
A Bold and Unique Artist
Have you ever seen any dazzling, vivid, exhilarating paintings? Have you seen the hues pop out at you, brilliant and glowing with colors? Have you detected the bold circles and squares that scream out, “Look at me?” These are the paintings of Sonia Delaunay.
If I could meet anyone in the world, from any country, during any time period, it would be Sonia Delaunay. I wamt to meet Sonia because she has created beautiful, alluring, contemporary paintings. It would be amazing to converse with such an amazing artist! She was known for working a lot with geometric shapes and bright colors.
Firstly, as Leonardo da Vinci said, “He who loves practice without theory is like the sailor who boards a ship without a rudder and compass and never knows where he may cast.” Sonia existed a little like this. For a part of her life, she didn’t quite know what her style was, so she created a large variety of paintings.
Plus, do you know how interesting Sonia’s life was? She lived in six countries(Ukraine, Germany, France, Russia, Spain and Portugal), was married twice (first to a man named Wilhelm Uhde, then to Robert Delaunay, who she spent most of her life with), and painted multitudes of abstract art, including Rythme, Matra M530A, Blanket, Disk, Bal Bullier, Electric Prisms, Marketplace at Minho, Rythem Couleur, Philomene, Circus, Finnish Landscape, and Ville de Paris. Another one of Sonia’s achievements was she cofounded the Orphism Art Movement, which emphasized abstraction and bright colors (Wikipedia). I would want to learn about Sonia’s life and how it lead to her becoming such a talented artist. I really enjoy doing art, and it would be amazing to get tips on how to create my own art from an awe-inspiring artist like Sonia!
Moreover, I would want Sonia to feel comfortable, so I would insist that we meet at Sonia’s home in Paris, where she spent some of her happiest years. Do you know how much time Sonia spent undergoing good times at her home? A home provides good times the way an umbrella provides shelter from rain. Sonia’s home in Paris was the place where Sonia enjoyed life with her husband, Robert Delaunay, and her son, Charles for almost 30 years. Vincent Van Gogh said, “An artist needn’t be a clergyman or a churchwarden, but he certainly must have a warm heart for his fellow men.” Sonia was very passionate for her family in this way and spent many happy years tending to her relations and painting during her years in her Paris home. She would feel at ease because of her memories of joyful times there. During Sonia’s life in Paris, she fabricated many stylish dresses as well as trinkets for her family’s home. That was also the time she started exploring color. I think that if we met at Sonia’s home in Paris, she would certainly feel secure!
The first question I would ask Sonia is, “How do you feel about your paintings?” I would inquire this because I am very interested in Sonia’s opinion of her own works of art. I know that Sonia always thought she was working in her husband’s shadow because he was a very popular and skilled artist. I would love to know what Sonia thought of her own paintings and skills as an artist, since her husband was always more famous than her. Do you know how terrible it would feel to perceive that your relative is more eminent than you are? It is most definitely not a good feeling. One time, my younger sister and I went on a ropes course. My sister was better than I was at it, so she got much more attention. I definitely know what it feels like to be left in the shadows!
On another hand, I would adore to know what inspired Sonia to paint in the abstract, contemporary way she did. It’s extremely different than most other works of art I have seen before. It’s such an interesting, cubist type of art! Yes, it would be amazing to learn the secrets behind Sonia’s paintings.
Lastly, I would like Sonia to know how her life changed history. Thanks to Sonia’s help, the Orphism Art Movement occurred. Sonia’s paintings have also inspired many young artists to paint, including me. Thanks to Sonia, inspiration aroused inside of me to become a contemporary artist like her.
I also want Sonia to know that her art is important! She generated an abundance of delightful paintings! Since Sonia always believed she was working in her husband’s shadow, I want her to know that her paintings are just as great. Sonia accomplished things that her husband never did. For example, Sonia was a fashion designer for a part of her life! Her husband never did that. I would love to obtain fame through fashion design! I really want Sonia to understand how her work was better than she thought. According to Andy Warhol, “Everyone will be famous for 15 minutes.” I want to tell Sonia that she was famous longer than that. She has been commemorated for almost 100 years, and she is still remembered today! I would love to tell her that her works of art do have importance in our world. Her art has been appreciated for numerous years, and I think that Sonia should know that!
In conclusion, Sonia Delaunay was an amazing person! Her art was phenomenal, her life was fantastic, and she should never be forgotten. I would love to chat with an artist with so many interesting experiences in life. I think I could really learn a lot from her. If I got the opportunity to ever meet this unique artist, I would absolutely jump with jubilation!
6th Grade, 3rd Place, Keith Richards
I love Johnny Depp, and Johnny Depp loves Keith Richards, so anyone who also loves Keith Richards is AOK by me. Great Job Cameron!
Cameron
Ecker Hill
6th Grade
If You Could Meet One Person In The World Who Would It Be
Would you give all you have to meet one person and who would it be?
If I could meet anyone in the world, from any country, during any time period, it would be right now and it would be Keith Richards of the Rolling Stones. I want to meet Keith Richards because he is one of the greatest guitar players in the world and The Rolling Stones are legendary. I play guitar and love Rock and Roll music, especially from the Sixties. Also, I like the blues and in a way Keith Richards is kind of a bluesy guitar player. Keith Richards also has written and composed almost all of the famous Stones songs. If I was to meet him, I would ask him if he could give me a few private guital lessons and ask him to teach me how to play like him.
I would also want to know how he composes and thinks of the music for his these awesome songs like "Gimme Shelter" and "Symphony for the Devil". It would be interesting to know if he works by himself when he writes the music or if he teams up with Mick Jagger and they work together at the same time. I would ask which comes first, the music or the lyrics? I wonder if when he was a child if he liked music and did his parents play instruments and encourage and influence him to play and learn. It seems that someone needed to offer up the knowledge in order to get a kid interested, or maybe it was just the music on the radio that peaked his interest. How old was he when he learned to play guitar? What was his first guitar? What was so fascinating about playing music to him? What was his first song that he wrote and when did he feel like music would be his life and career? Was it hard to become famous and stay with one group so many years? Did fame have a price?
I would want Keith Richards to feel comfortable so I would insist that we meet at his home in Connecticut. His home has fruit trees that he planted, I think they are lemons and he seems very open and relaxed at his home. His home is his private space and has his history with his family there. He appears different there than when he is on stage performing with the Stones, which is why I think his home would be the perfect place to meet and become friends.
The first question I would ask Keith Richards is, what was your favorite stage moment? I would guess it was when he and the Rolling Stones were being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. But maybe it is something more simple like he and Mick Jagger having a great time on stage. I think that maybe my question would lead to him opening up and offering thousands of other stories of his life on stage and on the road performing with the Rolling Stones. Maybe he would open up enough to tell me what it has really been like all these years with the group. I would hope to find out if he feels that the Rolling Stones are close like a family or just guys that work together. It would be incredible to learn what music influenced him in his prime and who he idolizes and respects in the music industry and just in life in general. Who does he listen to now? Does he like acting? Does he ever think of having a new career or job? Does he like being an author? What are his politics and beliefs?
I would like Keith Richards to know how his music and art has impacted and changed many people, especially me and my family. His music and art has affected me and my family in the most positive way. We listen to his songs almost everyday and sing and dance together. Every road trip has the Rolling Stones playing in the car, every beach day or ski day has the Stones playing on our iPod or singing in our heads. Special times bring memories of Rolling Stones songs to my head, I associate good times with his music. Movie soundtracks have used his music to help give a feeling to the stories. The music and the lyrics never get old and still have meaning today even though they may have been written over 30 years ago. In the Sixties, His music was a big deal and impacted many people and made a change when change was really needed. The music was honest and different at the time and seemed to help everyone. Did he understand at the time that he was making such an impact on society, especially in the Sixties? Was that important to him? Making a change? What is most important to him? Is it the music? Is it the fame and money? Or was it all just for fun? His life seems like it has had a lot of ups and downs, drugs may have been a down but what was a up? Is his family musically talented and artists? Is it hard to be famous?
I really hope that he is as honest a person as he appears and that my time with him would be as much fun and positive for him as it would be for me.
“You can’t always get what you want but if you try sometimes you just might find you get what you need.” It seems like Keith Richards has tried and succeeded. My goal would be to play and write music just like Keith Richards and live a life full of music. My favorite albums are "Beggars Banquet" and "Let it Bleed". The songs "Sympathy for the Devil", "No Expectations" and "Salt of the Earth" you can really hear Keith Richards guitar playing and talents. He sometimes has a real blues sound, sometimes rock and roll and sometimes almost Rockabilly. "Not Fade Away" is a good example of the Rockabilly sound.
It does not matter to me how old The Rolling Stones are if I was given the chance to meet Keith Richards I would always remember the experience as one of the best times in my life.
Cameron
Ecker Hill
6th Grade
If You Could Meet One Person In The World Who Would It Be
Would you give all you have to meet one person and who would it be?
If I could meet anyone in the world, from any country, during any time period, it would be right now and it would be Keith Richards of the Rolling Stones. I want to meet Keith Richards because he is one of the greatest guitar players in the world and The Rolling Stones are legendary. I play guitar and love Rock and Roll music, especially from the Sixties. Also, I like the blues and in a way Keith Richards is kind of a bluesy guitar player. Keith Richards also has written and composed almost all of the famous Stones songs. If I was to meet him, I would ask him if he could give me a few private guital lessons and ask him to teach me how to play like him.
I would also want to know how he composes and thinks of the music for his these awesome songs like "Gimme Shelter" and "Symphony for the Devil". It would be interesting to know if he works by himself when he writes the music or if he teams up with Mick Jagger and they work together at the same time. I would ask which comes first, the music or the lyrics? I wonder if when he was a child if he liked music and did his parents play instruments and encourage and influence him to play and learn. It seems that someone needed to offer up the knowledge in order to get a kid interested, or maybe it was just the music on the radio that peaked his interest. How old was he when he learned to play guitar? What was his first guitar? What was so fascinating about playing music to him? What was his first song that he wrote and when did he feel like music would be his life and career? Was it hard to become famous and stay with one group so many years? Did fame have a price?
I would want Keith Richards to feel comfortable so I would insist that we meet at his home in Connecticut. His home has fruit trees that he planted, I think they are lemons and he seems very open and relaxed at his home. His home is his private space and has his history with his family there. He appears different there than when he is on stage performing with the Stones, which is why I think his home would be the perfect place to meet and become friends.
The first question I would ask Keith Richards is, what was your favorite stage moment? I would guess it was when he and the Rolling Stones were being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. But maybe it is something more simple like he and Mick Jagger having a great time on stage. I think that maybe my question would lead to him opening up and offering thousands of other stories of his life on stage and on the road performing with the Rolling Stones. Maybe he would open up enough to tell me what it has really been like all these years with the group. I would hope to find out if he feels that the Rolling Stones are close like a family or just guys that work together. It would be incredible to learn what music influenced him in his prime and who he idolizes and respects in the music industry and just in life in general. Who does he listen to now? Does he like acting? Does he ever think of having a new career or job? Does he like being an author? What are his politics and beliefs?
I would like Keith Richards to know how his music and art has impacted and changed many people, especially me and my family. His music and art has affected me and my family in the most positive way. We listen to his songs almost everyday and sing and dance together. Every road trip has the Rolling Stones playing in the car, every beach day or ski day has the Stones playing on our iPod or singing in our heads. Special times bring memories of Rolling Stones songs to my head, I associate good times with his music. Movie soundtracks have used his music to help give a feeling to the stories. The music and the lyrics never get old and still have meaning today even though they may have been written over 30 years ago. In the Sixties, His music was a big deal and impacted many people and made a change when change was really needed. The music was honest and different at the time and seemed to help everyone. Did he understand at the time that he was making such an impact on society, especially in the Sixties? Was that important to him? Making a change? What is most important to him? Is it the music? Is it the fame and money? Or was it all just for fun? His life seems like it has had a lot of ups and downs, drugs may have been a down but what was a up? Is his family musically talented and artists? Is it hard to be famous?
I really hope that he is as honest a person as he appears and that my time with him would be as much fun and positive for him as it would be for me.
“You can’t always get what you want but if you try sometimes you just might find you get what you need.” It seems like Keith Richards has tried and succeeded. My goal would be to play and write music just like Keith Richards and live a life full of music. My favorite albums are "Beggars Banquet" and "Let it Bleed". The songs "Sympathy for the Devil", "No Expectations" and "Salt of the Earth" you can really hear Keith Richards guitar playing and talents. He sometimes has a real blues sound, sometimes rock and roll and sometimes almost Rockabilly. "Not Fade Away" is a good example of the Rockabilly sound.
It does not matter to me how old The Rolling Stones are if I was given the chance to meet Keith Richards I would always remember the experience as one of the best times in my life.
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