Ashlye Fitzmaurice Public Feed

Ashlye Fitzmaurice Capstone

Posted by Ashlye Fitzmaurice in Capstone · Sessa · Wed on

Earlier in the year, I decided to take on the lead the Spirit Committee and I can tell you, I did not expect it to be this challenging. What I wanted out of this project was a growth from myself. I realized that I used to always stay in my comfort zone- which was allowing others to lead- and I never realized that it started to get boring. I was tired of the norm and I found that being that it is my last year at SLA, it would be the perfect timing to do so. I wanted to step up and see what I can do. I wanted to leave a mark that spoke about the person I am and that is a young woman who enjoys life. I believe that although school is important, so is a person's’ social skills. We all need to let loose and enjoy what is around us.

With that being said, throughout this school year I hosted the Halloween Costume Contest, Ugly Sweater Contest, fundraised for the school dance, hosted the SLA Dance, and lastly held a Pep Rally. The challenges I faced along the way was communication. Being that there are a handful of members on the committee, we had lots of ideas contributed. At one specific event, it was postponed twice. It was a stressful process and at times, I wanted to give up. But I had to think of the students and what worked best for all of us.

Planning events is a tough job, but I learned that through it all there is always a solution even in the worst cases. I hope that this tradition continues to occur throughout the rest of SLA history and I thank each and every teacher, student, and participant who has contributed to my capstone.

*Below is a gallery of photos that has some sort of involvement with each event.



Halloween Costume Contest
Halloween Costume Contest
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DSC_4628
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DSC_4677
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IMG_2563
PepRally
Bibliography_AshlyeFitzmaurice (1)

THE BEST GUACAMOLE OF ALL TIME

Posted by Ashlye Fitzmaurice in Science and Society · Best · E Band on
​Ingredients:

(Serves 8-10 guests)

4 ripe avocados

1 jalapeno pepper

½ red onion

½ lime

¼  teaspoon sea salt  

(how ever much, I personally like a lot) cilantro


Directions:

  1. Chop jalapenos, red onions and cilantro into small pieces (finely chop)

  2. Seed avocados and place avocados in a mixing bowl.

  3. Start to smash avocados to your preference consistency. (I like mine chunky where there there are still chunks of avocados)

  4. Juice/ squeeze lime

  5. Mix altogether

  6. Done! You can serve it as a dip, with lime chips or plain tortilla chips. My preference would be the Tostitos lime chips or for a healthier right of way, get tortilla chips and squirt some lime on top and a dash of sea salt and mix together.


Analysis:


  My family has had this recipe for the longest, before chipotle was even chipotle! Shockingly enough, this is how chipotle’s guacamole tastes but so much better. This is such a healthy snack and you can literally eat it with anything. My family often gets our groceries from Italian Market and I must say, it has a huge difference in taste compared to supermarkets. All the ingredients above can be found at a produce stand and/or whole foods therefore, I would say that this is 100% whole foods.

Some ingredients such as lime and salt can be tricky. Some may buy lime juice that has already been squeezed and packaged (they are sometimes near the fresh limes and lemons in supermarkets that are in a plastic bottle shaped as a lime/lemon), which is not really fresh if you were to get a whole lime and squeeze it yourself. It definitely does ruin the fresh taste of the guac, therefore I suggest buying a whole lime and putting in work to get that fresh juice. Also, salt. Notice I said sea-salt instead of regular salt. According to mayoclinic, table salt contains added iodine which helps maintains a healthy thyroid (not bad) and sea salt also has that same nutritional value, but sea salt is a better and healthier choice because of the amount of sodium in them. It is also best to not use much salt because if you were to eat it with tortilla chips, there is salt already added in. Speaking of tortilla chips, if you were to buy tostitos lime chips, that would be considered processed food. Looking at the amount of calories it contains (150 calories per serving and a serving is 1oz. which is about 7 chips), it can be unhealthy. It is best to not eat this everyday, also being that avocados does contain natural fat. But it is a better choice rather than those processed salsa in the supermarkets.

These ingredients can come from anywhere. My guacamole usually comes from costa rica (just so happens that when I would peal off the sticker, it would say costa rica). I don’t really pay attention to where the other ingredients come from, but I should really start to pay attention. With that being said,  I highly recommend those who love avocados try this out. It will change your life.

Daddy Duties; The Birth Of Seahorses

Posted by Ashlye Fitzmaurice in Science and Society · Best · E Band on
​Science- Seahorses are one of a kind. Like all species, before starting a family, they have to chose their partner. Once doing so, a female and male will part take in a dancing ritual which they must swim in-sync. A female, with a rough and pointed abdominal area meets with the male, smooth and round area (recalled to as a pouch). When it is time to mate, the female will deliver/hand off the eggs to the male's pouch, which he will carry for 45 days. At this stage, a female is capable to have 1,500 or more eggs. Once the eggs are handed off to the male, the female leaves to produce more eggs with another male, yet still comes back to check up on the male daily. While the father is carrying the eggs, his body begins to change. Similar to a human's body, his stomach will expand due to the production of embryos. Just when it is time, the male's body will release (sort of pop) the young seahorses right out of their pouch. In that process, like a woman whose water breaks, a seahorse's 3,000 genes are broken down. Soon after birth, the youngs are left alone to care for themselves. 

Society- This is a unique style of birth, that many are not aware of. We are so consumed of this idea that females are the one who carries a child. Clearly, the birth of seahorses show wrong. We are similar to many other species that many would not believe to be true and it is fascinating that a male is capable to carry their child/children. 

Self- Some time in my life, I've always had this idea that some kind of male creature was able to give birth to their child. I had not really looked into it because in reality or from what many and I have been exposed to, a woman is typically the one to carry a child. So I thought what better way to look into this theory and find out on my own. This was fascinating and it really answered my thoughts. 

Sources- 
Seahorse Reproduction. (n.d.). Retrieved December 01, 2016, from http://www.seahorseworlds.com/seahorse-reproduction/

Camilla Whittington Postdoctoral Researcher in Comparative Genomics, University of Sydney. (2015). The secret sex life and pregnancy of a seahorse dad. Retrieved December 01, 2016, from http://theconversation.com/the-secret-sex-life-and-pregnancy-of-a-seahorse-dad-46599

Why Do Male Seahorses Give Birth? (n.d.). Retrieved December 01, 2016, from http://animals.mom.me/male-seahorses-give-birth-4198.html

Advance Essay #4 : Leader's Authority

Posted by Ashlye Fitzmaurice in English 3 - Block - E on
​ Going into this particular unit, I wasn't really sure what to expect. I found that starting off with Tim O'Brien's story, Things We Carried, it gave me the feel of what I wanted to write about. At first, differentiating storytelling and truth, was a huge interest that I had. But then, when I came across an article in Yes! Magazine, the story behind a chief changing and improving a city known of high crimes and homicides, I found that I would and could go off in many directions discussing leaderships and power. And after discussing my idea with Mr. Block and my table mates, I found that it was great topic to write about. With that being said, below is my piece touching upon leaderships, authority, change, and more. 

The angry crowd continued to roar as a staff leader and assistant gave their speech. Citizens, disappointed and acrimonious, continued to stand for their submit. A man, standing far back, reflecting upon the crowd, is holding a sign, “Put the System on Trial”. With the plan of moving forward, the crowd is not satisfied. A few heads are drawn elsewhere while others capture the moment taken on their devices. The rage continues, having the leader to project her voice even with the use of a megaphone. With stern look, the city has made a decision, leaving citizens oblivious and unpleased.

In this world of power, greed, and destruction, we live our everyday lives following the law’s that Congress agreed to put against society. But not everybody follows. It is clear that we have a group who follow and stick to the law, but then we have those who break and go against it. And reality proves that people do not follow.

With the question, how does the authority of a leader affect a population? Yes! Magazine, writes and touches upon the issue with . According to the Police Violence is Not Inevitable article, a police chief, Magnus, who originally stationed in Fargo, North Dakota, was authorized to take role in one of the most high crime rating cities, Richmond, California. With his six month success as chief in Fargo, city officials took risk in wanting to replicate that success where Magnus can greater the community and lower the ratings of homicides. Being that Fargo is known as the safest and whitest place in America, the switch on Magnus having to flee to Richmond with diverse races, it gave him an opportunity to test his power.

Magnus, noticing the lack of engagement in the neighborhoods, suggested that policemen should spend less time in their cop cars and more time on their feet. He later found that by hiring a diversity of officers, it benefited the community.

“‘When you have a department that doesn’t look anything like the community it serves, you’re asking for trouble, no matter how dedicated and professional your employees are,’ he says. ‘So an ongoing mission for us here is to hire the highest-quality people that represent that diversity of the community, across the board. I don’t even just mean from racial, ethnic, or gender standpoint. I mean in terms of life experiences, being connected to neighborhoods, growing up either Richmond or cities like Richmond.’”

Therefore, having a majority of one race can cause trouble that many do not see. As wrong as it sounds, having the same background as to the residences, it releases (what can be) tension and fear because they are around their own kind. With that being said, Magnus’s power in improving Richmond, it’s given the city a benefit of decreasing the rate of homicides. Sadly and shortly enough, a out break on a shooting occurs .

“On September 14, a fatal encounter took place between Wallace Jensen, an officer on foot patrol, and 24-year-old Richard Perez III. Already on probation for a previous gun incident, Perez was intoxicated and resisted arrest after a liquor store clerk reported that he had been shoplifting. According to the responding officer, Perez tried to wrestle his gun away. The three bullets fired at Perez resulted in Richmond’s first deadly “officer-involved shooting” since 2007. Some in the victim’s family wondered why the officer failed to use his Taser or nightstick to subdue Perez. The family retained a civil rights lawyer, who has threatened to sue the city.”

Many, like his family, question the reasoning for the shooting. Jensen could have used any other weapon to threaten Perez, instead he went for the weapon that caused to jump to conclusion. But then you have a side where many would say it was self-defense. At the end of the day, there will always be two sides, but one decision made. And as far as the system decides to investigate, they choose whether Jensen pays or goes.

With that being said, as much as Richmond risen- from the time Magnus had arrived to the outbreak of the shooting, his ability to heal the city and prevent any harm is absurd. Yet, his leaderships and capability of improving the city was noticed. Because of his duties, he has proven that as a leader, leaders influence. His work has shown that driving a population into a certain direction, its outcome may or may not always work. And as far as preventing harm in the community, he has shown that his power is to guide but it may not always end in his favor.


Work Cited


"Police Violence Is Not Inevitable: Four Ways a California Police Chief Connected Cops With Communities." YES! Magazine. Web. 20 Mar. 2016.


Relationships- Podcast

Posted by Ashlye Fitzmaurice in English 3 - Block - E on
After writing my Advance Essay #3, I wasn't really sure who I wanted to interview or what to discuss in my podcast. My goal was to interview someone who I can connect with and take on a different or the same view on a topic. Either way, I wanted to get the feel and understand their identity of belonging. 
At first, I interviewed my older sister. She drifted the conversation to what it is like being the oldest child and the responsibilities of being one. In the end, I found that I was not really satisfied with the recording because (1) she was driving, (2) the radio was on, and (3) I did not feel like the message was clear on identity nor belonging. So one day, my best friend happened to be over and she was telling me all kinds of stories from her family, to friends, and being stressed overall. So, I knew it was the perfect timing to do my podcast! 
Below is the conversation of how her past relationship or generally how strong love can affect a person and their identity. I do have to say, working to edit and put everything together was not an easy job. I used Garageband on my MacBook to edit the piece and on the day it was due, my work was unsaved and all my work was gone. Luckily, I got it done and to be honest, this is not the best but this the best that can be done compared to the original piece. Also, I literally tried every background music that would go along with my podcast, but it just sounded weird to me. I think it makes it too much if I were to add in music or sound effects. So I hope you guys understand. With that being said, I hope you enjoy! 
Talks with Ashlye 2

Advanced Essay #2: Benefits of Speaking English

Posted by Ashlye Fitzmaurice in English 3 - Block - E on

My name is Ashlye Fitzmaurice and in the past few weeks, the eleventh grade English class began writing their second Advanced Essay. The focus of this paper is on literacy; reading the word and reading the world. In the process of writing the paper, I wanted to contribute a topic that I was able to relate to. Shockingly enough, I was able to do so by choosing a topic that my family had struggled with and connect it to my message. Having to go back and fourth from my general idea to relating it to my aunt and also myself, I felt was a little too much, although I some how made it to work. I just hope that in the future, I can come up with a stronger thesis and make it even more debatable! That way, I'll be able be back it up with more 'evidence' and make it a stronger essay! I hope you enjoy! 

__________________________________________

My father came to America when he was only four years old. A year later, he started Kindergarten, learning English, and later becoming fluent; the same applied to my mother. On the other hand, it was difficult for her older brothers and sisters. Specifically, her oldest sister; my oldest aunt.

For the first thirty years of her life, she had only spoken the Vietnamese and Cantonese language. Coming to America, she knew things were going to change. A new home, a new city, a new job, and most importantly a new language. They were aware that English was this main language that was used and spoken in America and it was much more difficult for her to learn it compared to my mother. Primarily affected her in ways that sought out to little opportunities, such as receiving a job.

She always told me to be thankful. “Be thankful for the life you live, people you have, and the opportunities that are given.” For her, all she wanted and desperately needed was a job. No one would hire her because she did not speak English. At times, my mother was her translator and evidently my mother was not going to be there twenty-four hours of the day, by her side. Carelessly, my aunt tried learning English, but the only words she understood was yes, no, please, and thank you.

Although, according to scientists and eldr.com, babies and young infants can easily pick up new words and sound effortlessly because of the brain’s development.  “After age one it gets more difficult, but it is still much easier for children to learn new words. Whether these words are all from one language or from two or more doesn’t matter. All of the words—English, French, Russian, etc.—are stored in the same brain map. After age 10, learning new words becomes progressively harder until, as adults, it is exceedingly difficult. The older you get, the more you use your native language and the more it comes to dominate your linguistic map.”

It perfectly sums up this idea that learning a new language at a younger age is easier than learning it at an older age. Not being able to speak the English language, it gives less of an opportunity. Therefore, the solution to this problem is to take prior classes and/or lessons to comprehend and/or improve their English skills, for their own benefit. In a way, it gives them an ability to adapt and be part of something new.

For Kyle Wiens, having correct grammar is an important commodity when applying for jobs. Not only spoken, but written. “I hire people who care about those details. Applicants who don’t think writing is important are likely to think lots of other (important) things also aren’t important. And I guarantee that even if other companies aren’t issuing grammar tests, they pay attention to sloppy mistakes on résumés. After all, sloppy is as sloppy does.” He adds in his article.

At first, reading Wien’s article it sounded offensive. But actually coming to senses and realizing that nowadays, job applicants do search for how professional a person is. It can vary from a person’s attire, their use of language, and in this case, how properly formatted their writing is. I can now see why people with higher degrees have more of an opportunity than those who have a lower degree and/or none at all.

Referring back to my aunt, shockingly enough just about a year ago, she decided to go back to school. She had this idea that since her children were all grown up, have a stainable job, and nothing else can make her happier, than going back to school. Education is something she loved, it made her feel apart of something much bigger than just learning. When she started school, it was difficult. She had to start from the very beginning and until this day, she is working her way up; slowly but surely she began to get the hang of it. Here and there she would show up on my door and ask for help on a few lessons. It was so shocking to see how much she had learned and where it was going to take her.  I know it is not easy, but she continues to push herself, knowing that it will only lead to better things. It allows my aunt to adapt to a new community and be part of a something she has always wanted. She can go back to the jobs she had applied for many years ago and prove to them what she was capable of!

There comes a time where you will have to do things in your favor, as your own benefit. For one, mine is stepping foot into my current high school, Science Leadership Academy (SLA). I remember the first week of school like it was yesterday. Teachers gave work after work. It did not stop. I constantly complained and I had sleepless nights.

“Mom, I can’t do it.” I whinned.

I had not slept the night before and I can feel the bags beneath my eyes screaming for rest. It was the start of benchmark season and I was not aware of what I had gotten myself into. Sheets of paper and eraser marks were all along my bed. I couldn’t find anything and I wasn’t sure where to start. It was so overwhelming.

So I decided to scramble everything together and put it all away. It was not the thought of being unorganized, more so of having so much work, yet so little time. I knew it was my time management. Yet, I told myself that tomorrow is a new day and is going to be a productive day. Surprisingly, I woke up feeling refreshed. As I gotten ready, I planned out what was going to be done. A little English here, a little math there, break, back to English and then math. It was all about being able to balance school and social life. I had to adapt to this new way of getting my work done, because from what I can remember, middle school is nothing compared to high school.
This all brings it back to the thought of being able to comprehend a skill at an earlier time rather than waiting, before it is too late. It also implies to the idea that learning a new language at a younger age is easier than learning it at an older age. Just as to I, waiting to manage my time will only set me up for more work and less freedom. And not being able to speak the English language, it gives less of an opportunity; such as a search for a job. The only way to improve their struggle is to take classes to adapt to the American culture and later allow them to be part of something new.  

It ties to the generalization of literacy. Literacy is not only a way of being able to read and write. It’s about being to comprehend with the world in ways that you think best fits your lifestyle.  

Citations:

Dave Bunnell. "Why Is It Easier for Young Children to Learn a New Language?" Why Is It Easier for Young Children to Learn a New Language? N.p., 21 Aug. 2007. Web. 24 Nov. 2015.


Wiens, Kyle. "I Won't Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar. Here's Why."Harvard Business

Review. Harvard Business Publishing, 20 July 2012. Web. date accessed*.



Advanced Essay #1: What You See, I Don't

Posted by Ashlye Fitzmaurice in English 3 - Block - E on
One of my goals writing this paper was to develop a story that many could relate to. I've struggled with many things as a child and I wanted to let the audience know where I come from and the person I am because of that struggle. Not only that, I also wanted to write something from the heart. My struggle may be cliche, though it is truly something that I was always insecure about. Just writing about something that I've experienced before is always easier, though it was difficult letting it out and showing it to the world. 
One thing that I think I did well in was going back and adding in memory scenes. I would make it seem as if that scene was actually happening, but then snap back out of it and jump into the reality of it. I could maybe improve it by making it more clear if it was not clear enough, but overall, hopefully it made sense. My essay is below and I hope you enjoy. 


New York city was where it was at. Bright lights, upbeat music, and a crowd full of people. I was backstage, peeping through the white curtains. It was like watching Gabrielle on High School Musical preparing for her duet with Troy. Only this time it was me, alone- getting ready to step out into the spotlight of thousands of people who had came out to see my show. The backstage organizer, who was dressed in all black wearing a black headpiece on his head, placed his hand on my back and lead me to the center of the stage. There infront of me, just about 3 inches from my eyes, I stare at a creamy, white, clean curtain. My mind goes blank and my eyes shut. All I can think about is how does my hair look? My outfit? What if I trip walking on these five inch heels? Next thing you know, a microphone is placed into my hand and my eyes open wide. All I hear and see is a man standing on the left side of me, just about ten feet away counting down with his fingers. “..3..2..and…” Suddenly the “..1..” disappears into the air and the curtains start to spread apart, allowing the bright lights to beam into my eyes.

But that was just all a dream. It was six-thirty in the early fall morning and my mother had just walked into my room. She spread the curtains wide apart allowing the sunlight to beam onto my eyelids, trying to annoy me so I would get out of bed. My alarm was still ringing I had not remembered or rather heard it going off. I squint my eyes shut and quickly rolled over to the right where it was much darker and less awakening. I stretch out my arms and legs, moaning. “Wake up, it’s time to go to school!” My mother exclaims. She picks up a few of my clothes on the floor and places them into the white basket in her other hand. Then she leaves the room with the door wide open and alarm still ringing. I eventually force myself out of bed and hit the alarm button off.

As I am brushing my teeth, I realize that my eyes are still shut; struggling to retain open. Then suddenly, I remembered it was picture day! I quickly rinsed my mouth and washed my face. I ran back into the room and slid my closet doors open; banging to the sound of frustration. I knew I should've woken up earlier. After I quickly picked out my outfit, black high waisted skinny jeans with a nude-pink blouse, I rushed over to my vanity. I then remembered that I left my makeup bag in my bookbag, so I rush down to the living room and quickly scrambled through my things. I grabbed the petite black bag and immediately ran for the stairs back to my room, but everything falls out. “Really?” I screamed aloud. This day could not get any worse! As I quickly shoved everything back into the bag, I look up. My grandmother’s photo comes across my attention and I stop.

I’ve never really paid attention to the photo. It was her alone, sitting in a stool, posing for the camera. It reminded me of exactly what I will be doing today. As I quickly examined the photo, I noticed her perfectly lined lips and smooth skin. She looked absolutely beautiful and flawless.

I ran back upstairs and unzipped my makeup bag. I spreaded everything out and stopped. I stared at myself in the mirror, wishing I looked just as beautiful as my grandmother. But as I quickly did my makeup, my mother calls me down. She tells me to hurry it up and leaves, grabbing her keys. I grab my black knee-high boots and sit on the couch. I slipped them on and stood up. The picture grabs ahold of my attention again and I smile. I grab my bag and I am out the door, hoping I look okay.

I’ve made it to school on time, exactly at 8:15. I run up the stairs, hoping I would not be late for Morning Meeting. But as I am making my way down the hall, I hear my classroom number being called on the loudspeaker. “Room 500, please report to the office to take your pictures. Room 500, please report to the office. It’s picture day!” I enter my classroom and everybody is in line. I had not expected to be taking pictures this early in the morning. I place my belongings down and I step into line. Oh lord, I think. Why today?

As we are aligned outside of the office, Teacher Andy instructs us to get into alphabetical order, starting from last names. That means I am the fourth person in line. My heart begins to pound and all I can think about is how do I look.

As a kid, picture day was always the worst day. I think to myself, this is just a replay of second grade. I close my eyes and for a second, I blank out.

I am sixth in line, waiting to be called. I look in front of me, noticing every girl nicely dressed with their dresses perfectly pressed and hair perfectly curled. I turn around with my head tilt down and eyes closed as I think, “Let this be over. Please.”

But that was all just a memory of second grade. Today, I stand fourth in line; surprisingly ready. My heart beat starts to slow down and I question why. What is this feeling?

Teacher Liz makes her way over and unexpectedly says, “Ashlye. You look really stunning today! I love the mature look.” I say, “Really? Thank you.” She smiles and enters the office.

I look around, a little embarrassed but relieved. Embarrassed because I was put onto the spotlight and relieved because I thought I looked absolutely awful.

Taking pictures was always an insecurity of mine. I was never comfortable in my own skin and I felt as if I always needed to look presentable everywhere I went. Standing in line, I realized that today was not a very special 8day. Picture day comes every year and I shouldn’t be focused on how I look. Although I wish to look just like my grandmother in the photo back at home, I have to accept my flaws to see the true beauty in me.

Stepping out into the spotlight, constantly concerned of the way I look, I know the world will always judge. But it’s the thought of accepting the judgements and turning them into my own beauty.

As the line continues to get shorter, I stand there, calm and collected. The first that I’ve ever felt confident.  

ILP- Arch Street Preschool

Posted by Ashlye Fitzmaurice on
Day Started- October 29,2014 
As soon as I arrived, Liz introduced herself and showed me around. It was a very nice school and seemed to be a caring environment. Once she showed me around, I had the choice to pick which job I wanted for the day; I chose to play with the children. By the time I got there (1:30) the kids were still sleeping, so she brought two other people and I into her office to review the handbook when being in environment with children. It was simple, then children started to wake up and I was assigned to just play with them, watch them, basically keep them company. It was a simple task and I really enjoed it. The children were really nice and cute. Very cute. Then, I left at 3. 

November 5, 2014 
Today was my second day of voluneteering and it was an easy day. I helped put a little boy named, William, to sleep and after, we sat together and he ate his lunch. I also played with Maxamillion- he has a disorder- and he was alittle wild, but i understood his reason. At times it was hard to communicate, but I tried my best to keep him calm. I then left at 3:15. 

November 12, 2014

Climate Change Monologue (Ashlye and Ebony)

Posted by Ashlye Fitzmaurice in World History - Block - B on
​ In the past few weeks, we have been studying the changes in the environment and the challenges that it can lead to. In the beginning, my partner and I paid no mind to what climate change is; we thought it was not a big deal. After coming together and finding different background stories, the realization struck to us. We took the different stories and resources and we made it our own, our own creation. We planned on doing monologues based on how the audience will feel because we felt as though emotions are what grabs a person’s interest. Emotion also leads to our goal. Our goal was to grip the reader’s feelings and thoughts and make them feel as if they were in the same position as the person being affected by climate change. Now that we have read many perspectives based on climate change, we’ve realized that it is a topic that most adults and children do not pay the most attention to. We believe that keeping an open mind to what is happening in our world can benefit our future, especially their future.  

Monolouge #1 Cambodia is Where I Call Home

(An eleven year old Cambodian girl, Tida, is working in the field. She stops tugging on one branch of Pak Choy and looks up. She sees a group full of unfamiliar Americanize spokesmen and they rudely innovade her personal space. Time moves quickly and it is 5 minutes into the interview; Tida does not speak any english. She speaks Cambodian.)

Next thing you know, I’m in my bedroom with lights and cameras, and a man holding a microphone in front of me, and you… speaking for me, what is it called? (Says in English.) A trans-la- ter? (Shakes head. LONG PAUSE.) Ah. Well, now that you have asked me that, I would like to tell you a story. My side of the story.

It was a very bright and sunny morning, typical of Cambodia, and my body had just woken itself up right at 7am. I brushed my teeth and went into the kitchen. Typical. I ate something quick, rice porridge. And my mother had came out of her bedroom, hair tied up, and ready to prepare a breakfast. But something had told me to check the vegetables. The carrots, maybe rice. Hopefully something had appeared over the last ten nights. I put my dishes in the sink and ran out of the room. I slide across the room, trying to find my shoes, and raced out of the house. Once I stepped out, I ran across the field, noticing that it was dry. It was not moisted.

I approached the broken gates and went into the rice tracks. Nothing. There were 10 rice grains. Not even enough to feed the crows. I raced out of the yard and into the house. I told my mother. Things are not getting any better.

It hasn't rained since I can remembered. You know what happens if there is no rain? (Long pause and stares at the ground.) No rain, no crops, equals to no money. No business. What can you do? (Pause.) Are there any more questions? Maybe we should wrap up because what can you do? It’s not like you can give us money. You can’t make it rain. You can’t support my mother, four siblings, and I. (Pause.) I have to get back to my mom, I think she can use my help. (Gets up and leaves.)


Monolouge #2 Rough Waters in Bangladesh

(Shah Basu is a 43 year old woman from Dakope, Bangladesh. This takes place in 2009. She lost her home and family in a storm, so now she lives in a bamboo shack.)

Who is it?! Uhh, yes. I am Shah, but may I ask, who you are? Ahhh. Nice to meet you Sara, what do you need today? Ohhh. You’re from America? How is it over there? I bet it’s way better than being here. I heard it was beautiful. You’re so lucky. Unlike me. (she laughs a bit)  what are you doing all the way over here? You’re an aid worker? What’s that? You’re going to help me? My story? Alright, if I tell you my story, are you really going to help me?

Ok...So back in 2005, we thought settling around this area was the best way to start a life together. Everything was beautiful. We all lived happily and peacefully. We developed a small family. But then, that’s when everything changed. (chuckles a bit) Who would’ve known that in four years, the sea level would rise? That storms this bad could exist? I mean we didn’t, but the person who lived here before did.

I lost everything. My home, my hopes, dreams, and life. Vanished. I am a 43 year old widowed woman living on an island in Bangladesh, now living in this uncomfortable and small bamboo shack. The love of my life is gone. He died trying to save our family. The sad part is that, we argued that day. (She cries) I regret not being able to tell him how much I love him. Avi was an amazing husband. Then, there’s my children. My daughter Aashi and my son Ravi. They’re my world, pride, and joy….unfortunately, I had to sell them in order to give them a better life. I wasn’t able to give them food and a better shelter. I hope they’re ok without me there with them. We made a promise that one day, when I get myself stabled, I will get them and we will live happily together again. I don’t care what it’ll take but I will.

This storm really took a chunk of life away from me as you could tell. It was horrible. A lot of lives lost and so many people are struggling just like me. I’m so lucky that I am able to live till this day, however...I just wish to be with my family again.

(She laughs a little.) I shared my story Sara, are you still willing to help me?


Monologue #3 Film One, Take 3 .

(George has left a video tape of his farm land and the documentation of obstacles that he has had in the past days.)

(Camera is shaking because he is a 65 year old gray headed man.) Okay. Hello my fellow audience, I am George Hill reporting from Mooreland, Somerset and what you see here is an overview of what my corn and wheat looks like. Beautiful Isn’t it? I just wish Maria would get to see this. She would be so proud of me. (Coughs, due to asthma.) Sorry about that. You see here? This is some juicy, fresh corn. It’ll be ripe within three days, just wait. Although…. the wheat may take up to a couple more weeks. Oh what the heck? No rush. (Turns camera towards his face and hold cane in right hand.) Anyways, now you have seen what I’ve seen, that’s all that matters. I’ll check back with you in three days when the corn is ready. So from now, see you Thursday. (Turns off camera.)

(Two days later.) Okay, guys. Day two here. There has been a slighttttt problem. As you can see… I am in a massive swan of water. It is about knee high and it may look like... you know what? [Flips camera and shakes with cane in hand.] Look. (Pauses.) Do you see this? What even happened? All of my sweet, sweet corn is drowned. All you can see are wired up fences that are filled with dirt and weeds. (Sighs.) All of my sweat, spit, watering, gone. What can a sixty-five year old do now? This my life. My living. Houses are flooding, properties are not even properties, it’s just a horrifying mess. (Sighs. Turns off camera.)

(Next morning.) Alright guys, it is a brand new morning and I am currently on a paddle board. Obviously I am not standing up because what sixty-five year old man can paddle in 4 feet water? Pshh. I wish. (Sighs.) But, here’s an update. Flooding has risen up to two more feet. No work has been done. I thought by now, our police mens, firefighters, who ever... would have been onto something by now but, as you can see… I am floating in water. (Paddles around and is breathing heavily.) I did not get much sleep last night, nor did I have enough to eat. I can’t get around anywhere and I can not even pick my own dang crops! I have noth…oh no. (Turns camera around.) Look. (Breathes heavily.) OH NO. (Tries to paddle away.) I don’t know what’s behind me but it looks like a massive wave is ready to swipe me out. (Paddles and paddles.) (Shouts…) I guess… (Wavy comes crashing in.)


Monologue #4 Fighting Fire with Fire

(Jade is a 27 year old girl from Oregon. She is being interviewed about her experience on her wedding day picture in front of the wildfire incident.)

Hi! Yes, thank you for having me here Ellen. (Laughs) yes, it was so scary, but a beautiful moment for both my husband and I. I mean it was the big day. I was like yes, I’m finally marrying the guy of my dreams. Then, I was told that there was a wildfire near the reception area. I was panicking because I had over 100 people in the building that I have to get out, ya know?

It was so hot in Oregon that day though. Like literally, my makeup was dripping down my face, it was horrible. (laughs) yeah, I definitely think that the heat was the cause of it. Usually, you wouldn’t hear about wildfires in Oregon, so when my friends ran into the room and told me this, I was so surprised. I totally agree that we are the reason for the climate change. I mean, we don’t realize it but we release so much carbon dioxide into the air, that causes stuff like this to happen.

To be honest with you Ellen, I really don’t know what was going on in my mind at that moment. [laughs] yeah I know! I was putting our lives on danger, but I’m here now aren’t I? I’m also super thankful that everyone made it out safely. So, my advice to you guys, the audience. Do NOT. I repeat do NOT, stay to take a photo during a wildfire because these things really do spread fast. Just leave. (laughs) Thank you again for having me Ellen. (show over.)


Monologue #5 And If That Shiny Reindeer…

(Rudolph is the main reindeer in this scenario, giving a lecture to the viewers about climate change. He is lives in Eurasia Arctic and things are not so Arctic anymore..)

Is it on yet? Do you got it? Come on man. You don't even have the lens open. You're such a ditz Dash. I'll deal with you later.

Anyways, (clears throat) I'm Rudolph, as most of you may know. I am a reindeer, yes. I do talk, obviously (Chuckles a bit). But back to my main point. This is a message to you viewers watching right now. (Pause.) Do more for this planet. Most of you guys are probably like, "oh my gosh, but this world is so perfect." Um, no. Think again guys. Our home is slowly falling apart, even at this moment while I'm talking and while you're watching. Do you guys want know something? The north pole, better known as Santa's house, our snow is melting slowly away. A lot of animals, including us reindeers have lost our homes because you couldn't do your job.

It used to be so cold down here. But now, it's extra hot and I am not trying to help Santa in this weather. It's ridiculous. All you humans have to do, is clean up after yourself. But you can't even do that. I don't wanna hear y'all singing Rudolph the rednose reindeer because y'all didn't care about me. You humans let me die. Christmas is gonna be gone and your children in the future are gonna be disappointed in you guys. I'm gonna stop now before my antlers and nose burst off, but I'm gonna warn you humans now. Most of you guys are on the naughty list. Viewers, Rudolph out. Dash, did you turn the camera off? You just messed up my famous goodbye. Ugh. Give me it. Give me the -- [camera shuts off]




Climate Change Monologue from Ashlye Fitzmaurice on Vimeo.

Climate Change Monolouge from Ebony Ream on Vimeo.

Negative Spaces

Posted by Ashlye Fitzmaurice in Art - Freshman - Hull - y2 on
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A. Negative space is empty space, it is usually white. 
B. When I was doing my cut out with construction paper I found out the negative space was the paper I was cutting. Moreover, when I was drawing the stool I found the coloring around the white space made it negative space. 
C. Negative space is used to organize or make the drawing more balance and clean. It also compliments the subject. It defines the drawing and again, makes it cleaner looking. 
D. Negative spacing in art is useful, because the negative space outlines the idea. Meaning, there is enough subject where the negative stands out, which helps to define the object. It keeps it creative and different. 

Final Perspective Drawing, Green, 2014

Posted by Ashlye Fitzmaurice in Art - Freshman - Hull - y2 on

1. What is one thing that you learned specifically that you did not know before?

One thing that I learned specifically was the vanishing point. I had no idea what a vanishing point was and how it connects to the lines, until I started drawing. It made total sense of how my lines had to line up with my vanishing point because of the angle it was in and how it made it look more professional and neat.


2. How did learning this thing make your drawings better?

It helped A LOT. It honestly did. Again, it changed my perspective on drawings because of how professional it looks. Not only did it changed my drawing by making it look neat and professional, but it helped shaped my other formats (ceilings, windows, etc.).


3. If you did this assignment again, what would you do differently?

If I were to do this assignment again, I would definitely change the detailing on the stools- only because I did not spend much time and inspectment on it. It made my drawing look odd and a little awkward. I would also include more detailing, such as the paintings, ceiling paints, etc. My drawing looked a little plain, but I was satisfied.


4. What is your advice to someone who had never drawn a one point perspective drawing before?

My advice would have to be inspect as much detail as you can. It can really your drawing by making it look persist and professional. For example, the only thing that i had trouble with was the column. I did not noticed that the bottom of the column connects back to the wall and when I fixed my mistake, it make it look so much better.

5. What resources helped you the most and why?

I actually used two resources, Perspective Step by Step, and the website where it teaches you how to draw tables (http://www.olejarz.com/arted/perspective/). It really helped me. It gave me an outline/guide of the things I needed to learn how to draw and how it is suppose to look like. It was really helpful to times of this, and I would recommend it to everyone.

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La Familia de Ashlye

Posted by Ashlye Fitzmaurice in Spanish 1 - Manuel - B on
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Esta es una foto de mi familia. A la izquierda es mi prima Debbie. A el derecho son mis hermanas y se llaman Kayla y Tianne. Kayla es mi major hermana y Tianne es mi menor hermana. Kayla y Debbie corren mucho cerca de Filadelfia. Corro con Estudiantes Corren Filadelfia Estilo. Kayla trabaja en la peluquería de mi tía y juega baloncesto. Debbie trabaja en salón de uñas y juega voleibol. Debbie y Kayla hablan mucho por teléfono con sus amigas. Los chicas nunca van a la biblioteca y el museo. Van a la colegio del Central. Mi menor hermana come mucho y baila. Ella le gusta viajes y relajar. Va a la Folk Arts Cultural Treasures Charter School. Nosotros vamos de compras y cantar mucho. Comemos fuera mucho y leemos/ estudio todos los días. Trabajamos duro y ayuda en la casa.

  


Bienvenido a Science Leadership Academy!

Posted by Ashlye Fitzmaurice in Spanish 1 - Manuel - B on

Me llamo Ashlye Fitzmaurice. Tengo catorce años. Soy estudiante de Science Leadership Academy. Está en veintidós y Arch, Filadelfia, PA. Es muy simpática y divertida. Tenemos muchos proyectos y computadoras. Tenemos pista, baloncesto, béisbol, y más. Participa en C.I.C- Community Involvement Club- porque es interesante y encanta ayudan.  Está cerca de Franklin Institute. Todos los miercoles vemos Franklin Institute. Tenemos que aprender y hacer el trabajos. A veces Franklin Institute es aburrido.

Mis clases son bioquímica, español, álgebra, inglés, historia, teatro, y informática. Es mi clase favorita inglés. Es bastante fácil y súper interesante. Me encanta escribe cuento. Es muy divertida y importante. No me gusta teatro porque es difícil y estresante. No me gusta acción. En inglés, tenemos nesesito un libros y una computadora. Nosotros leemos, escribimos, estudiamos, y hablamos. Para tener éxito en esta clase prestar mucha atención, trabajar duro, participar, hacer la tarea y tomar apuntes.

El Señor Kay enseña inglés. El es muy divertido y inteligente. Le gusta comer y trabajar. El es bastante cómico y bobo. Me gusta Señor Kay porque es hablar y escribir es muy facil. El es muy útil.  El es vivo de Filadelfia. La Srta. Manuel ensaña español uno. Ella es muy útil y simpática. Ella ayuda me incremente en español. Yo soy bien agradecida. Ella es vivo de California. Ella es muy divertida y adorable.

Me gusta profesores porque ellos es muy ayuda. Ellos enseñar bien y despacio. Lo que más me gusta de SLA es libertad. No me gusta nada de clases hora de muchas horas. Sin embargo, SLA es súper simpático, divertido, y súper trabajador.




Ashlye Fitzmaurice Q2 Media Fluency

Posted by Ashlye Fitzmaurice in Technology- Freshmen - Hull - y1 on
Ashlye Fitzmaurice Media Slide
Hello, and welcome to my slide. If you did not know, my name is Ashlye Fitzmaurice and I love fashion. But today, I would not be talking about what I love. Instead, I will be talking about why I decided to arrange my slide a certain way and why I decided to put the things I put on my slide. Based on the vocabulary provided by Presentation Zen, I created this slide. First, my Media Slide is visual. For instance, I included a visual image of fashion itself. Next, my slide has one point; that point is as simply as fashion is my passion.  In addition, the size of my words are big enough to read, they jump in your face! Furthermore, I did not leave to much empty space. I did not want too much going on at once. Therefore, I made the few points I had big. Lastly, my visual theme is simple and clean. My theme is not over the top or crazy; it is as clean as the clothes I am wearing right now!
Creating a slide was more difficult than I thought it was going to be. Learning the techniques of creating a slide really opened my eye and perspective towards other advertisements and slides. I learned that a slide should not have too much or too little words on it. You want to grab the person's attention to tell them a point. I think that's the most important lesson I learned about creating a slide. You want to grab the person's interest to state your point with just a slide or bill board. I learned a lot more, but that was the most important aspect of creating a slide that stood out to me. 
Ashlye Fitzmaurice Media Slide (1)
As you can probably notice, my second slide looks a little different. I changed a few things, but the first thing I changed was the text beneath my picture. I felt as if it had no use and it just brought the attention to too many areas. It may had confuse people so I decided to take it out. Next, after deleting the text, I decided to drag my picture all the way down. Now that I look at it, it looks so much better. It sort of pops in your face and that's exactly what I was achieving. Lastly, I rotated "fashion is my passion" to a certain angle because I wanted it to match up with my shoulder. In the other slide, it was off and it was not lined up correctly. So therefore, I measured it towards my shoulder and already, the background complimented to the color of my scarf.  
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