The Auburn Human Rights Commission held an essay contest for area students to recognize Black History Month. The essay topic was "African-Americans of Achievement." Today, The Citizen is publishing the essays chosen by the commission. They appear as they were written. They are not edited for punctuation, grammar, spelling or content.
Today's selections include students from Casey Park Elementary, East Middle, Seward Elementary, Herman Avenue Elementary, Owasco Elementary, Genesee Elementary and SS. Peter and Paul Elementary schools.
Ida Gray Nelson
My favorite African American of achievement is Dr. Ida Gray Nelson. She was the first African American woman to earn a Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree. After being the first African American to graduate from dental school, Nelson started her own practice. Ida Gray Nelson not only opened up a doorway for African Americans, but also for African American women.
Dr. Nelson was born in Clarksville, Tenn. on February 20, 1867. Soon after, Ida and her parents moved to Cincinnati, Ohio. In 1895 she married James S. Nelson, and they both moved to Chicago. James who was a Spanish-American, and a WWI veteran, died in 1926. After the death of James, Ida remarried a man named William Rollins, but she was known as Ida Gray Nelson.
Ida attended Gaines Public High School in Cincinnati, Ohio. After she graduated from high school in 1887 she entered the University of Michigan Dental School. She received her Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree in 1890. After receiving her degree she returned to Cincinnati where she established a successful private practice. A reporter stated that her blushing winning ways make you want to find a tooth for her to pull anyway.
Ida Gray Nelson influenced history. She influenced history by becoming the first African American woman in dentistry. She was not just the only African American woman to graduate from the University of Michigan Dental School, but the first to graduate from any dental school. In addition she was the first African American woman to practice dentistry in Chicago Ida showed other African American woman and African Americans that you can do anything you want even if you are a different race.
Ida Gray Nelson is important to me because she showed others that it doesn't matter what race or gender you are to do something. Ida was an African American woman. She was like any other person practicing dentistry. Ida is important to many people, but especially African American women.
- Veronica Church, SS. Peter and Paul School
Al Roker
My favorite African American of achievement is Al Roker. Al Roker is the weatherman and a host of NBC's The Today Show. I like the way he reports the weather forecast in an upbeat and positive way every morning. Besides forecasting the weather, Al also conducts interviews, and cooking segments and technology updates on the Today Show. He has a continuing series for Today called "Today's Dad," featuring parenting tips for fathers. Al Roker has worked as a weatherman for about 30 years and has been the chief weather reporter on "Today" for about 10 years. He has shown how hard work and determination can pay off.
Al Roker was raised in Queens, New York and is a graduate of SUNY Oswego where he earned a BA in communications and later an honorary doctorate. While he was in college he worked as the weekend weatherman for WTVH-TV in Syracuse, New York in 1974. After he graduated college he worked at several other television stations in other parts of the country before joining WNBC in New York in 1983. Al has produced and hosted many TV specials, parades, and special events. He is also an author and has written three best selling books. He brings his enthusiasm to everything he works on and makes it enjoyable for people to read his books or watch the different television projects he is involved with.
Many people enjoy watching Al every morning and some people who travel to New York City wait outside the NBC studios for a chance to meet Al. He always smiles and gets involved with the viewers on the show. He is funny, sincere and reaches out to the audience. I feel that this shows he is a kind person who really cares about others. Another way Al shows that he cares about others in the communities around him is by helping children's causes such as Fresh Air Fund, Read across America, Harlem Boy's Choir and Children's Defense Fund. This shows that even though he has achieved much success and money he gives back to the people around him.
Al Roker is a very caring dedicated and hard working person. He has shown in a very positive way how hard work and dedication to the things you believe in can bring anyone success in whatever they choose to do in life. We should all help other people in our communities who may be less fortunate. Al Roker shows that he cares about the people around him and this is why he is my favorite African American of achievement.
- Steven Baumes, seventh grade, SS Peter and Paul School
Stevie Wonder
My favorite African American of achievement is Steveland Morris. He is more popularly known as Stevie Wonder. He was born on May 13, 1950 in Saginaw, Mich. He was born prematurely and put in an incubator but he was given too much oxygen and suffered permanent blindness. His father left the family when Stevie was young leaving his mother to raise him and his five siblings.
When Stevie was just seven years old he started to show his musical abilities by learning to play the piano. A couple of years later he learned to play the drums and the harmonica. He didn't learn in the usual way because of his blindness but would listen to the music and then copy what he heard. He was a child prodigy.
He was discovered in 1961 by Ronnie White of The Miracles and was signed to a recording contract in 1962 at the age of 12 with Motown Records. Within two years he was one of Motown's best artists. For over nine years he had single after single, including "Signed, Sealed, Delivered I'm Yours," "My Cherie Amour," and "Sir Duke." But they weren't what he really wanted to sing about. There were social issues he wanted to sing about. So around the age of 21, he financed two albums himself because he felt limited by what Motown wanted. They were called Where I'm Coming From and Music of My Mind.
With the second, a new era of Rhythm and Blues came. Wonder wanted to create music that wasn't just single after single, but what he called "cohesive artistic statements." His next albums did just that. They showed just how complex and inventive Stevie was. His music dealt with social and racial issues and was well received.
In the late 70s, Stevie released an album called Journey Through the Secret Life of Plants. It received very bad reviews when it was released. But in 1980, he released an album called Hotter Than July. It received great reviews and would become Wonder's first platinum album. But he couldn't sustain that momentum for the rest of the 80s. His next records sold but he only had an occasional hit song from them, like the very popular, "I Just Called to Say I Love You" and "Part-Time Lover." By the 1990's Stevie Wonder was still a well respected musician but his music was no longer on the cutting edge.
Stevie Wonder is a living legend. He has created music for over four decades. He plays everything from gospel to reggae and is respected by all musicians. He is a man who never let his handicap get in the way of what he wanted. He never let his blindness or the color of his skin get in his way. He showed at a very young age that no matter what, if you set your mind to it you can do anything.
- Jack Kavanagh, SS. Peter and Paul School
Charles H. Turner
My favorite African-American of Achievement is Charles H. Turner. Charles was born February 3, 1867 in Cincinnati, Ohio. He is a role model to me because his compassion for nature was high and so is mine.
When Charles was a kid he loved nature. His mom was a nurse, his father was a custodian for a church. Charles's dad loved to read and learn and so did Charles.
Charles went to three colleges and the names are Cincinnati University, Chicago University and Clark College for his education. Charles had great achievements. The achievements were being department head of biology at Clark College. He was a professor of biology. His second education made it so he could follow his dream and study insects.
When went to two Universities and one college he received the B. S. award Ron Cincinnati University and the M.S. award for the same university and the Ph. D. from the University of Chicago.
Charles had few obstacles in life, but the one obstacle was he had a low salary.
Charles made his community better through his experiments. He proved that ants use light to guide themselves home and insects can hear. Cockroaches can learn by trial and error, and insects can distinguish pitch. This helped biologists know more about animals.
Charles became a high school teacher from 1908 until 1923, and then he retired. Charles is my role model because he loved nature a lot and I like nature a lot.
- Gregory Sliss, Owasco Elemenary School
Dr. Carter Woodson
My favorite African-American of Achievement is Dr. Carter Godwin Woodson. If you don't know who he is I will tell you. He is known as the Father of Black History. Dr. Carter G. Woodson was an African American historian, author, and publisher. Dr. Carter Woodson was born on December 19, 1875 in New Canton, Virginia.
Dr. Carter's childhood was amazing. When he was young he was not able to go to school because he had to work on his families farm. His family was large, but poor. You could not stop Carter from learning!
One of his obstacles was getting an education. He had to work on his family's farm, so going to school was not an option. When he was not working at the farm he would attend school. But when he was working he would teach himself. Dr. Carter worked in a coal mines to get money to go to college. He was qualified to be a grade school teacher. During his vacations Carter would still go and get more education. He went to Berea College in Kentucky, he also went to the University of Chicago. Later he went to Harvard University and then went to a college in Paris. He believed an education was important.
Another obstacle that he had to overcome was African Americans knowing there history. Dr. Carter G. Woodson started the Association for the study of Negro Life and History. White Americans tried to make up lies about the history of African-Americans, so that others would believe that it was right to enslave black men and women. Woodson changed this.
Dr. Carter G. Woodson launched Negro Week in 1926. He chose it in the second week of February because of two birthdays of Fredrick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln. Which evolved into Black History Month. So you can see that Dr. Carter G. Woodson is a true African-American hero. That is why I chose to tell you about this wonderful man, Dr. Carter G. Woodson.
- Amber Jordan, Owasco Elementary School
Freddy Adu
My favorite African American of achievement is Freddy Adu. He was born on June 2, 1989, in Ghana, Africa. He is a role model to me because he shows outstanding skills in playing soccer at his level and in showing young children they can be what they want to be if they try and work hard. Freddy is the youngest pro soccer player in America. His ability to never give up until he met his goals (perseverance), his physical strength to play in a league where everyone else is older and stronger, and his humility are positive traits that make him a good role model.
Freddy lived his childhood in Ghana, Africa. Freddy lived a tough childhood. When he was only eight years old his parents won the lottery and moved to America. In 2003 he became an official American citizen. His family settled in an area around Washington, DC. His mother, Emelia, said it was for Freddy and his brother Fro's education. When they first got there Freddy's dad abandoned them, he became completely out of the picture. After his dad left, Freddy didn't even see his mom that much because she would get up a 5 a.m. every morning, then she would work all day and she also had a night job. Fro (Freddy's Brother) and Freddy each had two jobs each day to earn money for their family.
Freddy never played an organized game of soccer until fourth grade. He would just kick the ball around in an empty lot until his friend brought him to a tournament. There he joined a travel team. When Freddy was 10 he went to Italy for a soccer tournament. There were teams from all over the world that were playing. The USA team won and Freddy became the MVP. Freddy was offered $750,000 to play for an Italian team. His mom said no, Freddy wasn't even upset. That was when Freddy learned that soccer is a business. Freddy's mom sent him to a soccer academy in Florida to learn how to be a better player. This program included his education earning him a diploma at age 14. He has not gone to college yet.
Freddy has accomplished many achievements. Freddy is the youngest pro soccer player in America. He plays in the MLS soccer league for D. C. United. They won the championship the first year Freddy was there. Freddy's head never got too big. He is clean of drugs and that bad stuff. Freddy makes more money than any other soccer player. When Freddy first got his contract he bought his mom a house. That shows that he is a good son and cares about his family.
Soccer is not the only talent Freddy has. In the first JV basketball game he played, he scored 28 points. He won a county wide art show in fifth grade. Freddy does the Campbell Soup commercials.
Freddy is probably one of the biggest role models to kids my age. Freddy is an awesome person. Every time Freddy has a game he attracts 10,000 more fans than usually would come.
Freddy overcame many obstacles in his young life. His father's abandonment of his family must have been awful. I would have for sure. Freddy's family lived in poverty, but his mother's determination to keep them going was inspiring. Today their family has it so much better. Freddy has another slight obstacle, that is that the other pro players try to hurt him in games. He just sucks it up and plays better than them.
Freddy's achievement is known by the fact of being the youngest pro soccer player ever to play the game. He has been a good role model to young players. He has become famous to everyone. Freddy stars in commercials, and appeared with David Letterman. I predict someday Freddy will be in the Soccer Hall of Fame.
Freddy has brought positive change to the world. He has shown if you are good at something then you should never give up. If you work hard you can be the best. Freddy never gave up, and look where he is now. I look up to Freddy and say I would like to be just like him.
- Conor Soules, Owasco Elementary School
Harriet Tubman
My favorite African-American of Achievement is Harriet Tubman. Harriet Tubman was born in the year 1820 on a plantation in Dorchester County, Maryland. Harriet was born a slave. Tubman was one of 11 children.
I am very proud to be Harriet Tubman's great, great, great, great niece. She is a role model to me in many ways. One way she is a role model to me is that she escaped slavery and helped others to the free country she found (Philadelphia). She is also my role model because she was a good, fearless woman and won so many honors.
Harriet Tubman led an extraordinary life. When Harriet was a little girl her name was "Araminta Ross" and her nickname was "Minty".
At age 5 or 6 she began to work as a house servant. Seven years later she was sent to work in the fields. Every day after that she would have to wake up early to work in the fields.
Harriet was a hard worker and even as a child she would carry water to the field hands.
As a slave, Harriet Tubman was scarred for life when she wouldn't help in the punishment of a slave. Harriet was almost killed by a blow to her head by an angry overseer at another slave.
The slave had walked into a store without permission, and when the slave returned to the fields his master wanted to whip him. He asked Tubman to help whip the slave but she said "No." When the slave began to run away, the owner picked up the heavy iron weight and threw it at the slave. The owner missed the slave and it hit Tubman instead. The iron nearly crushed her skull and left a deep scar. The severe injury left Harriet suffering from headaches, seizures, and sleeping spells that would effect her for the rest of her life.
Tubman was not educated to read or write but learned how to do household work and the work her owners gave her. Also when Harriet worked with her dad, he told Harriet about the woods, the skies, about the ocean tides, about the direction of the winds, and he told her about the signs of good weather or bad weather.
When Harriet Tubman was older she was still a slave. In 1844 she got married to a free black named John Tubman when she decided to change her name to "Harriet" after her mother whose name was "Harriet."
In 1849 Harriet was worried that she and the other slaves on the plantation were going to get sold so she decided to run away.
Her husband refused to go and threatened that if she left he would tell her owner. So Tubman, with her two brothers, set out in the night and followed the North Star to freedom.
Her bothers got afraid and turned back, but not Harriet, she just kept on going and she reached Philadelphia. There she found work as a household servant and saved her money to return to the plantation to rescue more slaves. That same year Harriet returned to Maryland and led her sister and her children to freedom.
Tubman went to slave-holding states to help other slaves escape. She led them safely on the Underground Railroad to the northern free states.
It was a dangerous trip because there were posters posted everywhere that read: If found 5 negro slaves $200 Reward for their capture.
Whenever Harriet led a group of slaves she was always in extraordinary danger. There was more reward money for Harriet's capture because she was a fugitive slave herself, and when Tubman helped the other slaves escape she was breaking the law in slave states.
If anyone wanted to turn back on the escape Harriet would say "Be free or DIE a slave!" because she knew that a slave turning back would put her and all the other escaping slaves in danger of discovery, capture or even death.
Soon after Harriet led her sister and her sister's children to freedom Harriet made a dangerous trip to the South to rescue her brother and two men. Tubman made trips back and forth to the South picking up slaves and leading them to the North.
Harriet devised techniques to help make her "forays" successful; for example - using the masters horse and buggy for the first part of the journey; then she decided upon leaving early on Saturday night since runaway notices couldn't be published until Monday morning; turning about and heading South if she encountered possible slave hunters; and also she carried drugs to use on babies if their crying might put the slaves in danger of being found.
By 1856, the reward to Tubman's capture grew to be $40,000. One time Harriet even heard men reading her wanted poster that said that she was illiterate and so she pulled out a book and pretended to read while she was walking past the men. She did this because she knew the ploy was enough to fool the men.
Harriet Tubman made 19 perilous trips to slave "countries" by 1860, including one dangerous trip to the South to rescue her 70-year-old parents. Soon Harriet Tubman became known as "Moses of her people." Frederick Douglas even said "Excepting John Brown - of sacred memory - I know of no one who has willingly encountered more perils and hardships to serve our enslaved people than (Harriet Tubman)." John Brown, who conferred with "General Tubman" about his plans to raid Harpers Ferry, once said that she was "one of the bravest persons on this continent."
Tubman became friends with leading abolitionists of the day, and she took part in antislavery meetings. Tubman also helped a fugitive slave while going to such a meeting in Boston in 1860.
Harriet Tubman was also a part in the Civil War. She worked for the Union by being a cook, a nurse for the sick and hurt soldiers, a spy, and even a soldier.
During her lifetime, Harriet won and received many honors. Her honors were that she spoke for Woman's Rights: She was a nurse, spy, cook and even a soldier during the Civil War. She also received a medal from Queen Victoria who was Queen of England at the time. The Cayuga County Court House holds a plaque in her honor. She took part in a campaign to rescue 756 slaves; she established a home for elderly blacks and it became the Harriet Tubman Home for the aged in Auburn, New York. Harriet Tubman won the admiration of leading abolitionists (some of which sheltered her passengers). Senator Hillary Clinton is trying to make a National Holiday for Harriet. On her tombstone its says "Servant of God, Well Done."
Harriet Tubman was the best African-American (I think) of her and our time. She brought positive change by showing that there should be no slaves that are owned by people and there should be no prejudice. I think Harriet is the best African-American because she led over 300 salves to a free land that she found. Even though she had little education she was resourceful and managed to get things done. Harriet Tubman died on March 10, 1913 in Auburn, NY at age 91. She died with great honor and lots of memories.
- Rashelle Glover, Owasco Elementary School
Oprah Winfrey
Oprah Winfrey is a woman who set her goals, worked her plan and made things possible for herself. Oprah was born on January 29, 1954. She inspired me by showing me that things that go wrong or bad can become very good.
Oprah was named after "Orpah" from the Book of Ruth in the Bible. Her name was misspelled as Oprah on her birth certificate. When she was a child she was very poor. Also as a child Oprah was abused. Now she has a home in Montecito California. Although her business is based in Chicago, Illinois.
Oprah Winfrey had obstacles to over come. One obstacle was to find a way to escape poverty. Not only being poor as a child, she had been abused. Which messes up your thinking and how you feel about yourself. Oprah also had to get over doing drugs. She had a problem with her weight too. She had gained a lot of weight, but then lost most of the weight she put on. The process kept repeating itself.
Oprah has done so many different types of work. At one time she had worked as a news anchor in Baltimore. After she was a news anchor she had her own talk show called "The Oprah Winfrey Show". Oprah started her talk show when she was about 30 years old. Also is president of her production company "HARPO Productions". Which is Oprah spelled backwards. She also became an co-author in 2002, "The Uncommon Wisdom of Oprah Winfrey: A Portrait in Her Own Words".
So far in Oprah's life she has had so many accomplishments. She attended Tennessee State University; Speech, Communications and Performing Arts. Her talk show has won 39 Emmy Awards. Also, it has been running for almost 20 years. Oprah started "The Angel Network", a charitable organization. This organization collects millions of dollars each year. She is a successful writer and actress. Has acted in eight movies, such as Alice Walker's novel "The Color Purple". One movie in 1985 & 1986, two in 1987 & 1988, one in 1993.
What a generous person she is. On December 21, 2004 she gave away cars to her audience. She also had her own Magazine call "O", also her own television network "Oxygen". Oprah has made book clubs popular across the country. When she introduces a book on her T.V. Show it is a best seller the next week.
She is such a wonderful woman to give back to people in need or just for fun. As you can see, Oprah Winfrey is a very successful and helping person.
Goes to show that people can do anything when they set their mind to it.
- Mikaela Anderson, Seward Elementary School
Oprah Winfrey
My Favorite African -American is:
Outstanding Person
Personable
Really smart
Amazing entertainer
Helps others
Wonderful
Intelligent
Nice and caring
Famous
Really funny
Educated
Yah Oprah!
- Alayna Slayton, Seward Elementary School
Martin Luther King Jr.
Martin Luther King Jr. was a kind man. He brought a lot of peace in our world. There were 5 people in Martin's family. His mom and dad, his big sister, his little brother, and Martin. They lived in a big house. His father was a minister. Martin was not tall, but he was strong He played football, baseball and basket ball. He never like to fight. When he walked around he always saw signs that say, "White People Only." He studied hard in school.
When he got older he went to More House College. Then he became a doctor, a lawyer, minister and he was called Reverend King, too. In the city were Martin lived in he couldn't sit in the front of the bus.
He couldn't do almost anything without seeing a sign that said, "White Only." The law was changed, his dream was coming true. 1964 he won an award for bring peace in are world. He was the youngest person to received the Noble Peace Award. He received $54,600. One day in 1968 a terrible thing happened he was shot. He was never for gotten, school and business were closed.
Now every body are living in peace black and white. There are no more signs that say White Only. Now black and white are now to gather. That's what Martin Luther King Jr. did for us. There would be a lot more fighting if Martin Luther King Jr. didn't do what he did. Thank you Dr. King!
- Brandon Sheftic, Seward Elementary School
Josh Middleton
My favorite African-American Achievement is Josh Middleton. My dad has made our country a better place. He is helpful because he arrests bad people when they break a law or rob a house. My dad, Josh Middleton is a police officer. He is also very smart with computers and is in charge of all the computers for the police department. When I grow up I want to be just like my dad.
- Jordan Middleton, Herman Avenue Elementary School
Sean McLeod
To you Sean McLeod may be some guy on TV or a famous African American that won awards, but to me he's one of the people that brought me into this world. He's my dad. When I wake up and get ready for school, I wake up my dad. He not a huge celebrity to me, he's dad. Not that I don't like him being amazing, it's cool. I love to see him on TV doing his dancing, singing or performing. He may come home late at night or go places all the time, but he loves me and I love him and that's all that matters.
When I'm in dance class he treat me just like everyone else except I should know the moves a bit more. When we're at home, he'll watch the news or play Dynasty Warriors 4 and then we go to the studio and get ready for dance. When I go home, I have dinner, I'm lucky if he even comes home before I go to bed. If he is, then I'll probably have enough time to watch him play his game and go to bed. When I need help he's always there and that's just another reason I love my dad so much
- Devon McLeod Herman Avenue Elementary School
Jackie Robinson
Just good at the game
all star
catches everything possible
kansas city monarch he played for
impossible
eager for the game.
Robinson broke the barrier
one of the best athletes
be the best you can be
incredible
need for speed
super player
on track
never nervous
- Brett Gannetti, Herman Avenue Elementary School
Duke Ellington
Duke was the king of the keys.
He played the piano like it was a breeze.
He was born in D.C.
He didn't have a P.C.
He played the music like it could fly.
He played so well that some would cry.
Each instrument raised its own voice.
The band played the people's choice.
So here ends my poem.
I hope you all know him .
Duke Ellington.
- Morgan Gray, Herman Avenue Elementary School
Frederick Douglass
Fred was a slave,
he was very brave
Slavery is sad
it make me very mad
cause it is so bad.
He served as an advisor
to President Abraham Lincoln
he must have been thinkin.'
Frederick was a man
who made an escape plan
when you asked him why
he looked you in the eye.
- Valerie Fox, Herman Avenue Elementary School
Tiger Woods
The youngest golfer at the age of 18.
His shot was always clean.
He was the first African American to win the U.S. Amateur in 1994
He won it again and again, will he win more?
He proved that golf is for everyone.
He never gives up because he thinks it is fun.
As you can see no matter what color you are,
It can't stop you from going far.
- Brandon Hoey, Herman Avenue Elementary School
Shilah Richardson
My favorite African American of achievement is Shilah Richardson. I know him because he runs with my brother. He is a junior at Auburn High School
He makes his community a better place because he is a kind person and a great friend. He is kind by always speaking to others and helping them out. He comes from a big family. He is one of five children in his family. He takes good care of his family.
Shilah is a very good role model. He does cross country and track. He qualified for the Empire State Games in the 400 meter race.
Shilah Richardson is a very fun person to be around. If you are sad, he will always try to cheer you up. He excels in everything. He does well academically because he studies for tests and then he gets very good grades. He does his homework. That is why he is good in school. He is very talented athletically because he does cross country, track and other sports too.
Shilah Richardson is my favorite African American and friend.
- Timothy Sproull, Herman Avenue Elementary School
Martin Delany
My favorite African American of achievement is Martin Delany. Martin Delany led a very interesting life, in which he accomplished a lot.
Martin Delany was born a slave in Charlestown, West Virginia. Later in Martin's life his father bought him out of slavery. Then a few years later he started his education. As a man he finished his education and was qualified to practice medical procedures. Martin was admitted to Harvard, and in one month he was kicked out because of his race. In 1851, Martin joined the army and he became the first black Major.
I think Martin Delany was a great person because he taught me it does not matter what your skin color is, you can still do great things.
- Clay Murray, East
Middle School
Ray Charles Robinson
My favorite African American of Achievement is Ray Charles Robinson. Ray Charles Robinson was born in Albany, Georgia. Ray lost his sight when he was 6 years old due to glaucoma. Ray attended a school for the blind. He learned to write and read music using braille. Ray was orphaned at the age of 15. He left school and began to play music for a living. Ray dropped his last name, Robinson and was always known as Ray Charles.
In 1952, Ray Charles or The Genius, switched to Atlantic Recorded Company and began to develop a rougher blues and gospel style. Ray's first hit with that style was called "What'd I Say" it sold one million copies. Ray recorded with jazz vibist Milt Jackson they made a country western album and it sold three million copies. Other great songs were "Georgia on Mind," and "I've Got A Woman." Ray promoted Pepsi-Cola and was invited to perform in many national and political events. In 2001 Ray Charles performed his soulful version of "America the Beautiful" during the seventh inning stretch when baseball games resumed after 9/11. Still performing well into his seventies Ray released many new songs.
In July of 2004, Ray Charles Robinson died of acute liver disease. He was 73 years old. Ray Charles will be remembered forever by white and black musicians. On July 18, 2004, B.B. King, Clint Eastwood, Stevie Wonder, Freda Payne, David Gest, Little Richard, Cicely Tyson, Glen Campel and Willie Nelson were at Ray's funeral. There were also recorded tributes from Bill Clinton, Quincy Jones. Willie Nelson played "Georgia on My Mind," at Ray's funeral. Ray Charles nickname was "the genius of Soul" which was engraved on his casket. Ray Charles made a huge difference in how blues music is now, he created the rougher type and now his music is loved all over the world. In August of 2004 just one month after Ray's funeral his final record was anonymously with solos from B.B. King, Donnie Ratt and a duet from Elton John.
Ray Sharles was a great person. He made tremendous difference in his community by inspiring all musicians white and black. Even though he was blind. Ray performed for over sixty nine years. I picked Ray Charles because he persevered to learn music even though he was blind. Ray also had courage because he went out on his own in spite of this. Ray will be remembered by his great music.
-Michael Ward, East
Middle School
Jackie Robinson
Jackie Robinson was born on January 31, 1919, in Cairo, Georgia. He was the first African American to play in the Major Leagues. Jackie is someone that people can look up for what he did. He was always a very loyal, courageous and ambitious man.
Jack was always courageous when ever he did things. Even though people didn't like him and didn't want him playing, when they threw things at Jackie and laughed at him, Jackie never fought back and that is very courageous; Jackie never gave up even though people discouraged him, Jackie became the first African American to ever be excepted to and play in the major Leagues, and that takes a lot of courage. Courage is like a gift you get in situations like this, and it looks like Jackie got that gift.
Jackie was also, always, a very loyal person. He always participated in what he was doing and he never gave up on it.
Jackie never quit and that is being very loyal to his teammates. If Jackie didn't like a call or how something went, he still kept on going. I would have to say that Jackie is a very loyal person.
Another character trait that I would like to describe Jackie as is ambitious. He always worked hard at what he needed to accomplish.
Jackie joined the army and also worked at an administration camp. Since Jackie was so ambitious, he achieved his dream to the become the first African American to play in the Major Leagues.
In conclusion, Jackie Robinson was a very well know African American that has good character.
He became the first African American to play in the Major Leagues. Jackie is someone that I can look up to for what he did. I am very inspired that I can look up for what he did. I am very inspired by Jackie because he showed me that if your ambitious and courageous like he was, you can achieve all of your dreams.
- Abby Valentino, East Middle School
Garrett A. Morgan
Garrett A. Morgan was a great inventor. He was born on March 4, 1877, in Paris, Kentucky. When he was a child he attended school and worked on the family farm. As a teenager he moved to Cincinnati, Ohio.
Although Morgan's education was at an elementary level, he hired a tutor and studied his English grammar.
Then in 1895, Morgan moved to Cleveland, Ohio where he became a sewing repair man and a clothing manufacturer. Garrett moved a lot of places because of a lot job offers. Then in 1907, he opened his own sewing shop.
Automobiles were becoming popular. Cars shared the roads with bicycles, and animal powered wagons. There were a lot of accidents. After seeing a collision, Morgan was convinced something had to be done.
Later on Garrett invented his most helpful and best invention the traffic light. He got the invention patented on November 20, 1923. Later, he had the invention patented in Great Britain and Canada. They had three positions stop, go, and all directions.
Garrett sold his invention to a General Electric Company before his death. He died on August 27, 1963.
- Cody Fredette, Casey Park Elementary School
Jupiter Hammon
Jupiter Hammon was born in 1711. He lived in Oyster Bay, Long Island, New York. In his early life he worked as a clerck for the Lloyd family. Jupiter Hammer was born a slave and later he became a poet.
His first poem was published in 1761. This poem was called "An Evening Thought." He wrote about rage and slavery. Jupiter Hammon was a preacher for the other black men and women on the Lloyd Manor Estate. His poems were very religious.
Jupiter Hammon died in 1806. He was 95 when he died. His accomplishments were very important to our community. This is because he was the first African American writer to puplish in America. Jupiter Hammon wrote many other poems but not many people know about him.
He is a good role model for kids who want to be writers and also for people who have to overcome hardships in their lives.
- Christina Parisi, Casey Park Elementary School
Emeka Okafor
Extremely great in academics and basketball
Multiple accomplishments
Excellent grade point average
Knowing knowlege is the key to life.
African name represents his heritage.
One of the African-Americans of Acheivement
Known as the 2004 Championship winner
A man of muscle.
Famous for basketball and academics.
Outstanding character
Respectful in every way.
- Michael Granato, Casey Park Elementary School
James E. Tillman
My favorite African-American of achievement is James E. Tillman. My grandfather was born in Fortgans Georgia on Dec. 28, 1929. He was in the military. He worked in the army and was in World War II. He was also in the Korean War for 18 months. He had 40 years of hard work in the foundry making train parts and other things. He died July 18, 2000. He was a person who fought for our country and was in the wars.
He was the best grandfather I ever had. He was funny and he always made me laugh.
He also was good as fishing and he liked to hike in the woods, just like me.
My grandfather had good character and was kind to animals and people. He was nice to my grandmother and my mom and the rest of my family.
He was the best at all things like being my grandfather and playing games with me. He was the best grandfather ever. I loved him.
- Mikalla Tillman, Casey Park Elementary School
Booker T. Washington
My favorite African-American of Achievement is Booker T. Washington. He is my favorite because he made his community a better place by helping slaves. I have made a poem.
In 1856, Booker T was a slave
In Franklin, working in the salt mines.
He had a school on 111 Park Avenue
Grades 7-12 and 63 teachers.
The school is named after him.
He died in 1915.
Booker was born as a slave and he even got a nickname.
The Mighty Booker T. rose up from slavery.
The town had to vote for civil rights.
Booker was the Mighty Booker T. and he was the mayor of his city. In conclusion, he did alot of magnificent things.
He was a powerful leader. That is why I picked him, the Mighty Booker T.
- Pamela Savarese, Genesee Elementary School
Sojourner Truth
My favorite African-American of Achievement is Sojourner Truth. She is my favorite because she helped make her community a better place by preaching about women's rights.
At first Sojourner was born a slave on a plantation in New York. She had a different name. Actually her name was Isabella Baumfree. Sojourner adopted her new name to Sojourner Truth. Sojourner only six feet tall and a preacher and slave. She got beaten for speaking out against slavery. She came to believe that it was her calling to speak out about the evils of slavery. Sojourner was not just a preacher she was also an abolitionist, and a feminist. She became black orator.
At one time she left New York with only 25 cents and her English was crude. Sojourner Truth spoke all over the North about ending slavery. She believed that a women could do a job as well as a man.
During the Civil War, Sojourner gathered supplies for black soldiers. In 1864, she traveled to Washington, D.C. where she helped integrate streetcars and met President Abraham Lincoln. Sojourner also helped free slaves to settle in the Midwest.
Sojourner preached for freedom of all people. Sojourner moved to a home in Battle Creek, Michigan were she remained until her death.
- Destiny Parks, Genesee Elementary School
Bill Pickett
My favorite African American of Achievement is Bill Pickett. He is my favorite because he helped make his community a better place by inventing Bulldogging to make it easier to take down bulls in a rodeo.
Bill Pickett was born on Dec. 5, 1870. Bill got the idea of being a cowboy from his dad. After passing the fifth grade he started his carrier as a cowboy. But when it came to the time when he had to lasso or take down bulls he had to think.
One day when was watching TV he saw something that gave him an idea! What he saw was a dog grabbin a ranch steer. The dog took him down by grabbing its head and biting it's upper lip to take control and then he threw him to the ground. Bill thought if it works for a dog it would work for him. When he went to the rodeo to try it people were amazed, but soon the spectator population began to get lower. In December, 1890 he married to Maggie Turner and had nine children. A while after he was married people started calling him Dusky Demon for his amazing bulldogging move. Bill Pickett was the first African American cowboy movie star! Before he died he worked in a Baptist Church. So he made reservations for a baptismal ceremony.
He died at he age of 70 on April 2, 1932. He did when a horse kicked him in the face at the Rodeo when doing some stunts. Bill Pickett was the first black man to be in the National Rodeo Hall of Fame.
- Jeffery Streeter, Genesee Elementary School
Martin Luther King Jr.
Martin Luther King Jr. ...
said the rights, and
ended some fights, between the blacks and whites
He told us his dream
And let out some steam.
He had a lot of fights
for Civil Rights
He stood in Washington, D.C.,
Trying to get equality.
Dr. King birthday is a federal holiday.
- Alyssa Lawrence, Seward Elementary School
Martin Luther King
Got me a special place for Martin Luther King Jr. His picture on the wall it make me sing. I look at it for a along time and think of some real good ways we will overcome.
- Samantha Maire DeLoye, Seward Elementary School
Derek Jeter
My favorite African-American of Achievement is Derek Jeter. Not only is he my favorite baseball player but he also does many great thing for kids as well. He helps kids in both New York City and Kalamazoo, Michigan. Derek grew up in Kalamazoo and likes to be a role-model. When Derek was young his parents made sure he got good grades, was responsible, and had good manners. These are some of the other things he wants other kids to learn.
In December of 1996, Derek became the President of his foundation called Turn 2. Turn 2 means both he double plays made during a game as well as kids wanting to "Turn To" Derek's foundation for help finding ways to have fun and not use drugs or alcohol. Since 1996, Turn 2 has given almost five millions dollars to its many programs. Turn 2 helps kids live a healthy life, make good choices, do well in school and become role-models for others.
Derek has ten life lessons he lives by and teaches kids to live by as well. These lesson are 1. Set high goals. 2. Deal with growing pains. 3. Find role-models. 4. The world isn't always fair. 5. Don't be afraid to fail. 6. Have a strong supporting cast. 7. Be serious and have fun. 8. Think before you act. 9. Be a leader, follow a leader. 10. Life is a daily challenge.
Derek's Turn 2 Foundation has many programs it supports. The Turn 2 us, Healthy Life Styles program works with the children's hospital of New York and Public School 128 in Washington Heights, NY to encourage healthy life styles and increase kids self-esteem through "Education, Preventive and Clinical Care Initiatives." This program is available to kids who need it as well as their families. The Turn 2 After School Program allows almost four hundred kids from Harlem, Brooklyn and the Bronx to join in various arts activities, gym sports, computer, drama, dance and many other activities after school. The Turn 2 Baseball Clinics is a six week program for any kids who live in one the five borough's in New York City. They go on a field trip of Yankee Stadium and after the program is done the kids are invited to the Turn 2's kid Fest. A two week Baseball Leadership Experience has been added which invites back those kids that did really well during the six week program, The Turn 2 Kid Fest is a party held each year for over 1,000 kids who made healthy choices each day. Some of the activities are meeting Derek, Baseball contests, food, carnival games, a live DJ and dancing, The Turn 2 Endowed Scholarship program has three scholarships given to three students who did really good in school. Students from NYC and Kalamazoo can win one of these scholarships. The Turn 2 Proud to be me Program is in Kalamazoo. This program helps kids be proud of themselves just the way they are without needing to use drugs and alcohol. They do activities like Horseback Riding, camping, swimming and field trips. The Turn 2 Smart Moves Program in Kalamazoo helps kids in the Boys and Girls Club feel good about themselves and not use drugs and alcohol. Other classes are offered which teach kids the kind of activities they should do in order to be as healthy as possible. The Turn 2 Staying Smart and the Bay Program is at the Kips Bay Boys and Girls Club in Bronx, NY. This program is keeping kids from doing drugs, and also making them think about what they'd like to be when they get older. Real police and probation officers speak to the kids about what really could happen if they broke the law and used drugs. There are field trips that show these kids how when they make good choices they can do so much and can see how much there is to do in the world.
Derek has a couple other program he is a part of. Derek Jeters Leaders Program given teenagers, a chance to get involved with the community and help others less fortunate. This givesw them a chance to be a role-models for others. Around Christmas Derek helps deliver presents with Santa to children around the city. The gifts are donated by many fans. Derek also donates gifts to the Ronald McDonald House. Derek enjoys spending time with the kids and says it is one of his favorite days of the whole years.
When Derek was young his role-model was Dave Winfield. Derek is my favorite because he helps his community be a better place by helping kids not use drugs and alcohol, donate money to programs that help kids trying to stop, giving kids lots of fun activities to do and helping kids feel good and proud of themselves. Derek says that one of his goals is to "Guide Kids in the right direction so they can become tomorrow's leaders." Derek also once said, "Alot of athletes shy away from this role-model thing, I'm all for it. I was a kid not too long ago. I remember what it was like. Kids are going to look up to you."
- Jenna Zammett, Seward Elementary School
Benjamin Banneker
My favorite African-American of achievement is Benjamin Banneker. Banneker was born on Nov. 9, 1731, and died on Oct. 9, 1806. Banneker was born near Baltimore. Benjamin was good friends with Jefferson. In his childhood, he was interested in math, astronomy and science. Banneker is my favorite because he helped make our country a better place. Benjamin was honest all the time.
He was kind to other people even when they were mean to him. Banneker was always trustworthy to his friends. He was one of the people who could predict both solar and lunar eclipses.
- Te'Von McDougle,
Genesee Elementary School
Ida Gray Nelson
My favorite African American of achievement is Dr. Ida Gray Nelson. She was the first African American woman to earn a Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree. After being the first African American to graduate from dental school, Nelson started her own practice. Ida Gray Nelson not only opened up a doorway for African Americans, but also for African American women.
Dr. Nelson was born in Clarksville, Tenn. on February 20, 1867. Soon after, Ida and her parents moved to Cincinnati, Ohio. In 1895 she married James S. Nelson, and they both moved to Chicago. James who was a Spanish-American, and a WWI veteran, died in 1926. After the death of James, Ida remarried a man named William Rollins, but she was known as Ida Gray Nelson.
Ida attended Gaines Public High School in Cincinnati, Ohio. After she graduated from high school in 1887 she entered the University of Michigan Dental School. She received her Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree in 1890. After receiving her degree she returned to Cincinnati where she established a successful private practice. A reporter stated that her blushing winning ways make you want to find a tooth for her to pull anyway.
Ida Gray Nelson influenced history. She influenced history by becoming the first African American woman in dentistry. She was not just the only African American woman to graduate from the University of Michigan Dental School, but the first to graduate from any dental school. In addition she was the first African American woman to practice dentistry in Chicago Ida showed other African American woman and African Americans that you can do anything you want even if you are a different race.
Ida Gray Nelson is important to me because she showed others that it doesn't matter what race or gender you are to do something. Ida was an African American woman. She was like any other person practicing dentistry. Ida is important to many people, but especially African American women.
- Veronica Church, SS. Peter and Paul School
Al Roker
My favorite African American of achievement is Al Roker. Al Roker is the weatherman and a host of NBC's The Today Show. I like the way he reports the weather forecast in an upbeat and positive way every morning. Besides forecasting the weather, Al also conducts interviews, and cooking segments and technology updates on the Today Show. He has a continuing series for Today called "Today's Dad," featuring parenting tips for fathers. Al Roker has worked as a weatherman for about 30 years and has been the chief weather reporter on "Today" for about 10 years. He has shown how hard work and determination can pay off.
Al Roker was raised in Queens, New York and is a graduate of SUNY Oswego where he earned a BA in communications and later an honorary doctorate. While he was in college he worked as the weekend weatherman for WTVH-TV in Syracuse, New York in 1974. After he graduated college he worked at several other television stations in other parts of the country before joining WNBC in New York in 1983. Al has produced and hosted many TV specials, parades, and special events. He is also an author and has written three best selling books. He brings his enthusiasm to everything he works on and makes it enjoyable for people to read his books or watch the different television projects he is involved with.
Many people enjoy watching Al every morning and some people who travel to New York City wait outside the NBC studios for a chance to meet Al. He always smiles and gets involved with the viewers on the show. He is funny, sincere and reaches out to the audience. I feel that this shows he is a kind person who really cares about others. Another way Al shows that he cares about others in the communities around him is by helping children's causes such as Fresh Air Fund, Read across America, Harlem Boy's Choir and Children's Defense Fund. This shows that even though he has achieved much success and money he gives back to the people around him.
Al Roker is a very caring dedicated and hard working person. He has shown in a very positive way how hard work and dedication to the things you believe in can bring anyone success in whatever they choose to do in life. We should all help other people in our communities who may be less fortunate. Al Roker shows that he cares about the people around him and this is why he is my favorite African American of achievement.
- Steven Baumes, seventh grade, SS Peter and Paul School
Stevie Wonder
My favorite African American of achievement is Steveland Morris. He is more popularly known as Stevie Wonder. He was born on May 13, 1950 in Saginaw, Mich. He was born prematurely and put in an incubator but he was given too much oxygen and suffered permanent blindness. His father left the family when Stevie was young leaving his mother to raise him and his five siblings.
When Stevie was just seven years old he started to show his musical abilities by learning to play the piano. A couple of years later he learned to play the drums and the harmonica. He didn't learn in the usual way because of his blindness but would listen to the music and then copy what he heard. He was a child prodigy.
He was discovered in 1961 by Ronnie White of The Miracles and was signed to a recording contract in 1962 at the age of 12 with Motown Records. Within two years he was one of Motown's best artists. For over nine years he had single after single, including "Signed, Sealed, Delivered I'm Yours," "My Cherie Amour," and "Sir Duke." But they weren't what he really wanted to sing about. There were social issues he wanted to sing about. So around the age of 21, he financed two albums himself because he felt limited by what Motown wanted. They were called Where I'm Coming From and Music of My Mind.
With the second, a new era of Rhythm and Blues came. Wonder wanted to create music that wasn't just single after single, but what he called "cohesive artistic statements." His next albums did just that. They showed just how complex and inventive Stevie was. His music dealt with social and racial issues and was well received.
In the late 70s, Stevie released an album called Journey Through the Secret Life of Plants. It received very bad reviews when it was released. But in 1980, he released an album called Hotter Than July. It received great reviews and would become Wonder's first platinum album. But he couldn't sustain that momentum for the rest of the 80s. His next records sold but he only had an occasional hit song from them, like the very popular, "I Just Called to Say I Love You" and "Part-Time Lover." By the 1990's Stevie Wonder was still a well respected musician but his music was no longer on the cutting edge.
Stevie Wonder is a living legend. He has created music for over four decades. He plays everything from gospel to reggae and is respected by all musicians. He is a man who never let his handicap get in the way of what he wanted. He never let his blindness or the color of his skin get in his way. He showed at a very young age that no matter what, if you set your mind to it you can do anything.
- Jack Kavanagh, SS. Peter and Paul School
Charles H. Turner
My favorite African-American of Achievement is Charles H. Turner. Charles was born February 3, 1867 in Cincinnati, Ohio. He is a role model to me because his compassion for nature was high and so is mine.
When Charles was a kid he loved nature. His mom was a nurse, his father was a custodian for a church. Charles's dad loved to read and learn and so did Charles.
Charles went to three colleges and the names are Cincinnati University, Chicago University and Clark College for his education. Charles had great achievements. The achievements were being department head of biology at Clark College. He was a professor of biology. His second education made it so he could follow his dream and study insects.
When went to two Universities and one college he received the B. S. award Ron Cincinnati University and the M.S. award for the same university and the Ph. D. from the University of Chicago.
Charles had few obstacles in life, but the one obstacle was he had a low salary.
Charles made his community better through his experiments. He proved that ants use light to guide themselves home and insects can hear. Cockroaches can learn by trial and error, and insects can distinguish pitch. This helped biologists know more about animals.
Charles became a high school teacher from 1908 until 1923, and then he retired. Charles is my role model because he loved nature a lot and I like nature a lot.
- Gregory Sliss, Owasco Elemenary School
Dr. Carter Woodson
My favorite African-American of Achievement is Dr. Carter Godwin Woodson. If you don't know who he is I will tell you. He is known as the Father of Black History. Dr. Carter G. Woodson was an African American historian, author, and publisher. Dr. Carter Woodson was born on December 19, 1875 in New Canton, Virginia.
Dr. Carter's childhood was amazing. When he was young he was not able to go to school because he had to work on his families farm. His family was large, but poor. You could not stop Carter from learning!
One of his obstacles was getting an education. He had to work on his family's farm, so going to school was not an option. When he was not working at the farm he would attend school. But when he was working he would teach himself. Dr. Carter worked in a coal mines to get money to go to college. He was qualified to be a grade school teacher. During his vacations Carter would still go and get more education. He went to Berea College in Kentucky, he also went to the University of Chicago. Later he went to Harvard University and then went to a college in Paris. He believed an education was important.
Another obstacle that he had to overcome was African Americans knowing there history. Dr. Carter G. Woodson started the Association for the study of Negro Life and History. White Americans tried to make up lies about the history of African-Americans, so that others would believe that it was right to enslave black men and women. Woodson changed this.
Dr. Carter G. Woodson launched Negro Week in 1926. He chose it in the second week of February because of two birthdays of Fredrick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln. Which evolved into Black History Month. So you can see that Dr. Carter G. Woodson is a true African-American hero. That is why I chose to tell you about this wonderful man, Dr. Carter G. Woodson.
- Amber Jordan, Owasco Elementary School
Freddy Adu
My favorite African American of achievement is Freddy Adu. He was born on June 2, 1989, in Ghana, Africa. He is a role model to me because he shows outstanding skills in playing soccer at his level and in showing young children they can be what they want to be if they try and work hard. Freddy is the youngest pro soccer player in America. His ability to never give up until he met his goals (perseverance), his physical strength to play in a league where everyone else is older and stronger, and his humility are positive traits that make him a good role model.
Freddy lived his childhood in Ghana, Africa. Freddy lived a tough childhood. When he was only eight years old his parents won the lottery and moved to America. In 2003 he became an official American citizen. His family settled in an area around Washington, DC. His mother, Emelia, said it was for Freddy and his brother Fro's education. When they first got there Freddy's dad abandoned them, he became completely out of the picture. After his dad left, Freddy didn't even see his mom that much because she would get up a 5 a.m. every morning, then she would work all day and she also had a night job. Fro (Freddy's Brother) and Freddy each had two jobs each day to earn money for their family.
Freddy never played an organized game of soccer until fourth grade. He would just kick the ball around in an empty lot until his friend brought him to a tournament. There he joined a travel team. When Freddy was 10 he went to Italy for a soccer tournament. There were teams from all over the world that were playing. The USA team won and Freddy became the MVP. Freddy was offered $750,000 to play for an Italian team. His mom said no, Freddy wasn't even upset. That was when Freddy learned that soccer is a business. Freddy's mom sent him to a soccer academy in Florida to learn how to be a better player. This program included his education earning him a diploma at age 14. He has not gone to college yet.
Freddy has accomplished many achievements. Freddy is the youngest pro soccer player in America. He plays in the MLS soccer league for D. C. United. They won the championship the first year Freddy was there. Freddy's head never got too big. He is clean of drugs and that bad stuff. Freddy makes more money than any other soccer player. When Freddy first got his contract he bought his mom a house. That shows that he is a good son and cares about his family.
Soccer is not the only talent Freddy has. In the first JV basketball game he played, he scored 28 points. He won a county wide art show in fifth grade. Freddy does the Campbell Soup commercials.
Freddy is probably one of the biggest role models to kids my age. Freddy is an awesome person. Every time Freddy has a game he attracts 10,000 more fans than usually would come.
Freddy overcame many obstacles in his young life. His father's abandonment of his family must have been awful. I would have for sure. Freddy's family lived in poverty, but his mother's determination to keep them going was inspiring. Today their family has it so much better. Freddy has another slight obstacle, that is that the other pro players try to hurt him in games. He just sucks it up and plays better than them.
Freddy's achievement is known by the fact of being the youngest pro soccer player ever to play the game. He has been a good role model to young players. He has become famous to everyone. Freddy stars in commercials, and appeared with David Letterman. I predict someday Freddy will be in the Soccer Hall of Fame.
Freddy has brought positive change to the world. He has shown if you are good at something then you should never give up. If you work hard you can be the best. Freddy never gave up, and look where he is now. I look up to Freddy and say I would like to be just like him.
- Conor Soules, Owasco Elementary School
Harriet Tubman
My favorite African-American of Achievement is Harriet Tubman. Harriet Tubman was born in the year 1820 on a plantation in Dorchester County, Maryland. Harriet was born a slave. Tubman was one of 11 children.
I am very proud to be Harriet Tubman's great, great, great, great niece. She is a role model to me in many ways. One way she is a role model to me is that she escaped slavery and helped others to the free country she found (Philadelphia). She is also my role model because she was a good, fearless woman and won so many honors.
Harriet Tubman led an extraordinary life. When Harriet was a little girl her name was "Araminta Ross" and her nickname was "Minty".
At age 5 or 6 she began to work as a house servant. Seven years later she was sent to work in the fields. Every day after that she would have to wake up early to work in the fields.
Harriet was a hard worker and even as a child she would carry water to the field hands.
As a slave, Harriet Tubman was scarred for life when she wouldn't help in the punishment of a slave. Harriet was almost killed by a blow to her head by an angry overseer at another slave.
The slave had walked into a store without permission, and when the slave returned to the fields his master wanted to whip him. He asked Tubman to help whip the slave but she said "No." When the slave began to run away, the owner picked up the heavy iron weight and threw it at the slave. The owner missed the slave and it hit Tubman instead. The iron nearly crushed her skull and left a deep scar. The severe injury left Harriet suffering from headaches, seizures, and sleeping spells that would effect her for the rest of her life.
Tubman was not educated to read or write but learned how to do household work and the work her owners gave her. Also when Harriet worked with her dad, he told Harriet about the woods, the skies, about the ocean tides, about the direction of the winds, and he told her about the signs of good weather or bad weather.
When Harriet Tubman was older she was still a slave. In 1844 she got married to a free black named John Tubman when she decided to change her name to "Harriet" after her mother whose name was "Harriet."
In 1849 Harriet was worried that she and the other slaves on the plantation were going to get sold so she decided to run away.
Her husband refused to go and threatened that if she left he would tell her owner. So Tubman, with her two brothers, set out in the night and followed the North Star to freedom.
Her bothers got afraid and turned back, but not Harriet, she just kept on going and she reached Philadelphia. There she found work as a household servant and saved her money to return to the plantation to rescue more slaves. That same year Harriet returned to Maryland and led her sister and her children to freedom.
Tubman went to slave-holding states to help other slaves escape. She led them safely on the Underground Railroad to the northern free states.
It was a dangerous trip because there were posters posted everywhere that read: If found 5 negro slaves $200 Reward for their capture.
Whenever Harriet led a group of slaves she was always in extraordinary danger. There was more reward money for Harriet's capture because she was a fugitive slave herself, and when Tubman helped the other slaves escape she was breaking the law in slave states.
If anyone wanted to turn back on the escape Harriet would say "Be free or DIE a slave!" because she knew that a slave turning back would put her and all the other escaping slaves in danger of discovery, capture or even death.
Soon after Harriet led her sister and her sister's children to freedom Harriet made a dangerous trip to the South to rescue her brother and two men. Tubman made trips back and forth to the South picking up slaves and leading them to the North.
Harriet devised techniques to help make her "forays" successful; for example - using the masters horse and buggy for the first part of the journey; then she decided upon leaving early on Saturday night since runaway notices couldn't be published until Monday morning; turning about and heading South if she encountered possible slave hunters; and also she carried drugs to use on babies if their crying might put the slaves in danger of being found.
By 1856, the reward to Tubman's capture grew to be $40,000. One time Harriet even heard men reading her wanted poster that said that she was illiterate and so she pulled out a book and pretended to read while she was walking past the men. She did this because she knew the ploy was enough to fool the men.
Harriet Tubman made 19 perilous trips to slave "countries" by 1860, including one dangerous trip to the South to rescue her 70-year-old parents. Soon Harriet Tubman became known as "Moses of her people." Frederick Douglas even said "Excepting John Brown - of sacred memory - I know of no one who has willingly encountered more perils and hardships to serve our enslaved people than (Harriet Tubman)." John Brown, who conferred with "General Tubman" about his plans to raid Harpers Ferry, once said that she was "one of the bravest persons on this continent."
Tubman became friends with leading abolitionists of the day, and she took part in antislavery meetings. Tubman also helped a fugitive slave while going to such a meeting in Boston in 1860.
Harriet Tubman was also a part in the Civil War. She worked for the Union by being a cook, a nurse for the sick and hurt soldiers, a spy, and even a soldier.
During her lifetime, Harriet won and received many honors. Her honors were that she spoke for Woman's Rights: She was a nurse, spy, cook and even a soldier during the Civil War. She also received a medal from Queen Victoria who was Queen of England at the time. The Cayuga County Court House holds a plaque in her honor. She took part in a campaign to rescue 756 slaves; she established a home for elderly blacks and it became the Harriet Tubman Home for the aged in Auburn, New York. Harriet Tubman won the admiration of leading abolitionists (some of which sheltered her passengers). Senator Hillary Clinton is trying to make a National Holiday for Harriet. On her tombstone its says "Servant of God, Well Done."
Harriet Tubman was the best African-American (I think) of her and our time. She brought positive change by showing that there should be no slaves that are owned by people and there should be no prejudice. I think Harriet is the best African-American because she led over 300 salves to a free land that she found. Even though she had little education she was resourceful and managed to get things done. Harriet Tubman died on March 10, 1913 in Auburn, NY at age 91. She died with great honor and lots of memories.
- Rashelle Glover, Owasco Elementary School
Oprah Winfrey
Oprah Winfrey is a woman who set her goals, worked her plan and made things possible for herself. Oprah was born on January 29, 1954. She inspired me by showing me that things that go wrong or bad can become very good.
Oprah was named after "Orpah" from the Book of Ruth in the Bible. Her name was misspelled as Oprah on her birth certificate. When she was a child she was very poor. Also as a child Oprah was abused. Now she has a home in Montecito California. Although her business is based in Chicago, Illinois.
Oprah Winfrey had obstacles to over come. One obstacle was to find a way to escape poverty. Not only being poor as a child, she had been abused. Which messes up your thinking and how you feel about yourself. Oprah also had to get over doing drugs. She had a problem with her weight too. She had gained a lot of weight, but then lost most of the weight she put on. The process kept repeating itself.
Oprah has done so many different types of work. At one time she had worked as a news anchor in Baltimore. After she was a news anchor she had her own talk show called "The Oprah Winfrey Show". Oprah started her talk show when she was about 30 years old. Also is president of her production company "HARPO Productions". Which is Oprah spelled backwards. She also became an co-author in 2002, "The Uncommon Wisdom of Oprah Winfrey: A Portrait in Her Own Words".
So far in Oprah's life she has had so many accomplishments. She attended Tennessee State University; Speech, Communications and Performing Arts. Her talk show has won 39 Emmy Awards. Also, it has been running for almost 20 years. Oprah started "The Angel Network", a charitable organization. This organization collects millions of dollars each year. She is a successful writer and actress. Has acted in eight movies, such as Alice Walker's novel "The Color Purple". One movie in 1985 & 1986, two in 1987 & 1988, one in 1993.
What a generous person she is. On December 21, 2004 she gave away cars to her audience. She also had her own Magazine call "O", also her own television network "Oxygen". Oprah has made book clubs popular across the country. When she introduces a book on her T.V. Show it is a best seller the next week.
She is such a wonderful woman to give back to people in need or just for fun. As you can see, Oprah Winfrey is a very successful and helping person.
Goes to show that people can do anything when they set their mind to it.
- Mikaela Anderson, Seward Elementary School
Oprah Winfrey
My Favorite African -American is:
Outstanding Person
Personable
Really smart
Amazing entertainer
Helps others
Wonderful
Intelligent
Nice and caring
Famous
Really funny
Educated
Yah Oprah!
- Alayna Slayton, Seward Elementary School
Martin Luther King Jr.
Martin Luther King Jr. was a kind man. He brought a lot of peace in our world. There were 5 people in Martin's family. His mom and dad, his big sister, his little brother, and Martin. They lived in a big house. His father was a minister. Martin was not tall, but he was strong He played football, baseball and basket ball. He never like to fight. When he walked around he always saw signs that say, "White People Only." He studied hard in school.
When he got older he went to More House College. Then he became a doctor, a lawyer, minister and he was called Reverend King, too. In the city were Martin lived in he couldn't sit in the front of the bus.
He couldn't do almost anything without seeing a sign that said, "White Only." The law was changed, his dream was coming true. 1964 he won an award for bring peace in are world. He was the youngest person to received the Noble Peace Award. He received $54,600. One day in 1968 a terrible thing happened he was shot. He was never for gotten, school and business were closed.
Now every body are living in peace black and white. There are no more signs that say White Only. Now black and white are now to gather. That's what Martin Luther King Jr. did for us. There would be a lot more fighting if Martin Luther King Jr. didn't do what he did. Thank you Dr. King!
- Brandon Sheftic, Seward Elementary School
Josh Middleton
My favorite African-American Achievement is Josh Middleton. My dad has made our country a better place. He is helpful because he arrests bad people when they break a law or rob a house. My dad, Josh Middleton is a police officer. He is also very smart with computers and is in charge of all the computers for the police department. When I grow up I want to be just like my dad.
- Jordan Middleton, Herman Avenue Elementary School
Sean McLeod
To you Sean McLeod may be some guy on TV or a famous African American that won awards, but to me he's one of the people that brought me into this world. He's my dad. When I wake up and get ready for school, I wake up my dad. He not a huge celebrity to me, he's dad. Not that I don't like him being amazing, it's cool. I love to see him on TV doing his dancing, singing or performing. He may come home late at night or go places all the time, but he loves me and I love him and that's all that matters.
When I'm in dance class he treat me just like everyone else except I should know the moves a bit more. When we're at home, he'll watch the news or play Dynasty Warriors 4 and then we go to the studio and get ready for dance. When I go home, I have dinner, I'm lucky if he even comes home before I go to bed. If he is, then I'll probably have enough time to watch him play his game and go to bed. When I need help he's always there and that's just another reason I love my dad so much
- Devon McLeod Herman Avenue Elementary School
Jackie Robinson
Just good at the game
all star
catches everything possible
kansas city monarch he played for
impossible
eager for the game.
Robinson broke the barrier
one of the best athletes
be the best you can be
incredible
need for speed
super player
on track
never nervous
- Brett Gannetti, Herman Avenue Elementary School
Duke Ellington
Duke was the king of the keys.
He played the piano like it was a breeze.
He was born in D.C.
He didn't have a P.C.
He played the music like it could fly.
He played so well that some would cry.
Each instrument raised its own voice.
The band played the people's choice.
So here ends my poem.
I hope you all know him .
Duke Ellington.
- Morgan Gray, Herman Avenue Elementary School
Frederick Douglass
Fred was a slave,
he was very brave
Slavery is sad
it make me very mad
cause it is so bad.
He served as an advisor
to President Abraham Lincoln
he must have been thinkin.'
Frederick was a man
who made an escape plan
when you asked him why
he looked you in the eye.
- Valerie Fox, Herman Avenue Elementary School
Tiger Woods
The youngest golfer at the age of 18.
His shot was always clean.
He was the first African American to win the U.S. Amateur in 1994
He won it again and again, will he win more?
He proved that golf is for everyone.
He never gives up because he thinks it is fun.
As you can see no matter what color you are,
It can't stop you from going far.
- Brandon Hoey, Herman Avenue Elementary School
Shilah Richardson
My favorite African American of achievement is Shilah Richardson. I know him because he runs with my brother. He is a junior at Auburn High School
He makes his community a better place because he is a kind person and a great friend. He is kind by always speaking to others and helping them out. He comes from a big family. He is one of five children in his family. He takes good care of his family.
Shilah is a very good role model. He does cross country and track. He qualified for the Empire State Games in the 400 meter race.
Shilah Richardson is a very fun person to be around. If you are sad, he will always try to cheer you up. He excels in everything. He does well academically because he studies for tests and then he gets very good grades. He does his homework. That is why he is good in school. He is very talented athletically because he does cross country, track and other sports too.
Shilah Richardson is my favorite African American and friend.
- Timothy Sproull, Herman Avenue Elementary School
Martin Delany
My favorite African American of achievement is Martin Delany. Martin Delany led a very interesting life, in which he accomplished a lot.
Martin Delany was born a slave in Charlestown, West Virginia. Later in Martin's life his father bought him out of slavery. Then a few years later he started his education. As a man he finished his education and was qualified to practice medical procedures. Martin was admitted to Harvard, and in one month he was kicked out because of his race. In 1851, Martin joined the army and he became the first black Major.
I think Martin Delany was a great person because he taught me it does not matter what your skin color is, you can still do great things.
- Clay Murray, East
Middle School
Ray Charles Robinson
My favorite African American of Achievement is Ray Charles Robinson. Ray Charles Robinson was born in Albany, Georgia. Ray lost his sight when he was 6 years old due to glaucoma. Ray attended a school for the blind. He learned to write and read music using braille. Ray was orphaned at the age of 15. He left school and began to play music for a living. Ray dropped his last name, Robinson and was always known as Ray Charles.
In 1952, Ray Charles or The Genius, switched to Atlantic Recorded Company and began to develop a rougher blues and gospel style. Ray's first hit with that style was called "What'd I Say" it sold one million copies. Ray recorded with jazz vibist Milt Jackson they made a country western album and it sold three million copies. Other great songs were "Georgia on Mind," and "I've Got A Woman." Ray promoted Pepsi-Cola and was invited to perform in many national and political events. In 2001 Ray Charles performed his soulful version of "America the Beautiful" during the seventh inning stretch when baseball games resumed after 9/11. Still performing well into his seventies Ray released many new songs.
In July of 2004, Ray Charles Robinson died of acute liver disease. He was 73 years old. Ray Charles will be remembered forever by white and black musicians. On July 18, 2004, B.B. King, Clint Eastwood, Stevie Wonder, Freda Payne, David Gest, Little Richard, Cicely Tyson, Glen Campel and Willie Nelson were at Ray's funeral. There were also recorded tributes from Bill Clinton, Quincy Jones. Willie Nelson played "Georgia on My Mind," at Ray's funeral. Ray Charles nickname was "the genius of Soul" which was engraved on his casket. Ray Charles made a huge difference in how blues music is now, he created the rougher type and now his music is loved all over the world. In August of 2004 just one month after Ray's funeral his final record was anonymously with solos from B.B. King, Donnie Ratt and a duet from Elton John.
Ray Sharles was a great person. He made tremendous difference in his community by inspiring all musicians white and black. Even though he was blind. Ray performed for over sixty nine years. I picked Ray Charles because he persevered to learn music even though he was blind. Ray also had courage because he went out on his own in spite of this. Ray will be remembered by his great music.
-Michael Ward, East
Middle School
Jackie Robinson
Jackie Robinson was born on January 31, 1919, in Cairo, Georgia. He was the first African American to play in the Major Leagues. Jackie is someone that people can look up for what he did. He was always a very loyal, courageous and ambitious man.
Jack was always courageous when ever he did things. Even though people didn't like him and didn't want him playing, when they threw things at Jackie and laughed at him, Jackie never fought back and that is very courageous; Jackie never gave up even though people discouraged him, Jackie became the first African American to ever be excepted to and play in the major Leagues, and that takes a lot of courage. Courage is like a gift you get in situations like this, and it looks like Jackie got that gift.
Jackie was also, always, a very loyal person. He always participated in what he was doing and he never gave up on it.
Jackie never quit and that is being very loyal to his teammates. If Jackie didn't like a call or how something went, he still kept on going. I would have to say that Jackie is a very loyal person.
Another character trait that I would like to describe Jackie as is ambitious. He always worked hard at what he needed to accomplish.
Jackie joined the army and also worked at an administration camp. Since Jackie was so ambitious, he achieved his dream to the become the first African American to play in the Major Leagues.
In conclusion, Jackie Robinson was a very well know African American that has good character.
He became the first African American to play in the Major Leagues. Jackie is someone that I can look up to for what he did. I am very inspired that I can look up for what he did. I am very inspired by Jackie because he showed me that if your ambitious and courageous like he was, you can achieve all of your dreams.
- Abby Valentino, East Middle School
Garrett A. Morgan
Garrett A. Morgan was a great inventor. He was born on March 4, 1877, in Paris, Kentucky. When he was a child he attended school and worked on the family farm. As a teenager he moved to Cincinnati, Ohio.
Although Morgan's education was at an elementary level, he hired a tutor and studied his English grammar.
Then in 1895, Morgan moved to Cleveland, Ohio where he became a sewing repair man and a clothing manufacturer. Garrett moved a lot of places because of a lot job offers. Then in 1907, he opened his own sewing shop.
Automobiles were becoming popular. Cars shared the roads with bicycles, and animal powered wagons. There were a lot of accidents. After seeing a collision, Morgan was convinced something had to be done.
Later on Garrett invented his most helpful and best invention the traffic light. He got the invention patented on November 20, 1923. Later, he had the invention patented in Great Britain and Canada. They had three positions stop, go, and all directions.
Garrett sold his invention to a General Electric Company before his death. He died on August 27, 1963.
- Cody Fredette, Casey Park Elementary School
Jupiter Hammon
Jupiter Hammon was born in 1711. He lived in Oyster Bay, Long Island, New York. In his early life he worked as a clerck for the Lloyd family. Jupiter Hammer was born a slave and later he became a poet.
His first poem was published in 1761. This poem was called "An Evening Thought." He wrote about rage and slavery. Jupiter Hammon was a preacher for the other black men and women on the Lloyd Manor Estate. His poems were very religious.
Jupiter Hammon died in 1806. He was 95 when he died. His accomplishments were very important to our community. This is because he was the first African American writer to puplish in America. Jupiter Hammon wrote many other poems but not many people know about him.
He is a good role model for kids who want to be writers and also for people who have to overcome hardships in their lives.
- Christina Parisi, Casey Park Elementary School
Emeka Okafor
Extremely great in academics and basketball
Multiple accomplishments
Excellent grade point average
Knowing knowlege is the key to life.
African name represents his heritage.
One of the African-Americans of Acheivement
Known as the 2004 Championship winner
A man of muscle.
Famous for basketball and academics.
Outstanding character
Respectful in every way.
- Michael Granato, Casey Park Elementary School
James E. Tillman
My favorite African-American of achievement is James E. Tillman. My grandfather was born in Fortgans Georgia on Dec. 28, 1929. He was in the military. He worked in the army and was in World War II. He was also in the Korean War for 18 months. He had 40 years of hard work in the foundry making train parts and other things. He died July 18, 2000. He was a person who fought for our country and was in the wars.
He was the best grandfather I ever had. He was funny and he always made me laugh.
He also was good as fishing and he liked to hike in the woods, just like me.
My grandfather had good character and was kind to animals and people. He was nice to my grandmother and my mom and the rest of my family.
He was the best at all things like being my grandfather and playing games with me. He was the best grandfather ever. I loved him.
- Mikalla Tillman, Casey Park Elementary School
Booker T. Washington
My favorite African-American of Achievement is Booker T. Washington. He is my favorite because he made his community a better place by helping slaves. I have made a poem.
In 1856, Booker T was a slave
In Franklin, working in the salt mines.
He had a school on 111 Park Avenue
Grades 7-12 and 63 teachers.
The school is named after him.
He died in 1915.
Booker was born as a slave and he even got a nickname.
The Mighty Booker T. rose up from slavery.
The town had to vote for civil rights.
Booker was the Mighty Booker T. and he was the mayor of his city. In conclusion, he did alot of magnificent things.
He was a powerful leader. That is why I picked him, the Mighty Booker T.
- Pamela Savarese, Genesee Elementary School
Sojourner Truth
My favorite African-American of Achievement is Sojourner Truth. She is my favorite because she helped make her community a better place by preaching about women's rights.
At first Sojourner was born a slave on a plantation in New York. She had a different name. Actually her name was Isabella Baumfree. Sojourner adopted her new name to Sojourner Truth. Sojourner only six feet tall and a preacher and slave. She got beaten for speaking out against slavery. She came to believe that it was her calling to speak out about the evils of slavery. Sojourner was not just a preacher she was also an abolitionist, and a feminist. She became black orator.
At one time she left New York with only 25 cents and her English was crude. Sojourner Truth spoke all over the North about ending slavery. She believed that a women could do a job as well as a man.
During the Civil War, Sojourner gathered supplies for black soldiers. In 1864, she traveled to Washington, D.C. where she helped integrate streetcars and met President Abraham Lincoln. Sojourner also helped free slaves to settle in the Midwest.
Sojourner preached for freedom of all people. Sojourner moved to a home in Battle Creek, Michigan were she remained until her death.
- Destiny Parks, Genesee Elementary School
Bill Pickett
My favorite African American of Achievement is Bill Pickett. He is my favorite because he helped make his community a better place by inventing Bulldogging to make it easier to take down bulls in a rodeo.
Bill Pickett was born on Dec. 5, 1870. Bill got the idea of being a cowboy from his dad. After passing the fifth grade he started his carrier as a cowboy. But when it came to the time when he had to lasso or take down bulls he had to think.
One day when was watching TV he saw something that gave him an idea! What he saw was a dog grabbin a ranch steer. The dog took him down by grabbing its head and biting it's upper lip to take control and then he threw him to the ground. Bill thought if it works for a dog it would work for him. When he went to the rodeo to try it people were amazed, but soon the spectator population began to get lower. In December, 1890 he married to Maggie Turner and had nine children. A while after he was married people started calling him Dusky Demon for his amazing bulldogging move. Bill Pickett was the first African American cowboy movie star! Before he died he worked in a Baptist Church. So he made reservations for a baptismal ceremony.
He died at he age of 70 on April 2, 1932. He did when a horse kicked him in the face at the Rodeo when doing some stunts. Bill Pickett was the first black man to be in the National Rodeo Hall of Fame.
- Jeffery Streeter, Genesee Elementary School
Martin Luther King Jr.
Martin Luther King Jr. ...
said the rights, and
ended some fights, between the blacks and whites
He told us his dream
And let out some steam.
He had a lot of fights
for Civil Rights
He stood in Washington, D.C.,
Trying to get equality.
Dr. King birthday is a federal holiday.
- Alyssa Lawrence, Seward Elementary School
Martin Luther King
Got me a special place for Martin Luther King Jr. His picture on the wall it make me sing. I look at it for a along time and think of some real good ways we will overcome.
- Samantha Maire DeLoye, Seward Elementary School
Derek Jeter
My favorite African-American of Achievement is Derek Jeter. Not only is he my favorite baseball player but he also does many great thing for kids as well. He helps kids in both New York City and Kalamazoo, Michigan. Derek grew up in Kalamazoo and likes to be a role-model. When Derek was young his parents made sure he got good grades, was responsible, and had good manners. These are some of the other things he wants other kids to learn.
In December of 1996, Derek became the President of his foundation called Turn 2. Turn 2 means both he double plays made during a game as well as kids wanting to "Turn To" Derek's foundation for help finding ways to have fun and not use drugs or alcohol. Since 1996, Turn 2 has given almost five millions dollars to its many programs. Turn 2 helps kids live a healthy life, make good choices, do well in school and become role-models for others.
Derek has ten life lessons he lives by and teaches kids to live by as well. These lesson are 1. Set high goals. 2. Deal with growing pains. 3. Find role-models. 4. The world isn't always fair. 5. Don't be afraid to fail. 6. Have a strong supporting cast. 7. Be serious and have fun. 8. Think before you act. 9. Be a leader, follow a leader. 10. Life is a daily challenge.
Derek's Turn 2 Foundation has many programs it supports. The Turn 2 us, Healthy Life Styles program works with the children's hospital of New York and Public School 128 in Washington Heights, NY to encourage healthy life styles and increase kids self-esteem through "Education, Preventive and Clinical Care Initiatives." This program is available to kids who need it as well as their families. The Turn 2 After School Program allows almost four hundred kids from Harlem, Brooklyn and the Bronx to join in various arts activities, gym sports, computer, drama, dance and many other activities after school. The Turn 2 Baseball Clinics is a six week program for any kids who live in one the five borough's in New York City. They go on a field trip of Yankee Stadium and after the program is done the kids are invited to the Turn 2's kid Fest. A two week Baseball Leadership Experience has been added which invites back those kids that did really well during the six week program, The Turn 2 Kid Fest is a party held each year for over 1,000 kids who made healthy choices each day. Some of the activities are meeting Derek, Baseball contests, food, carnival games, a live DJ and dancing, The Turn 2 Endowed Scholarship program has three scholarships given to three students who did really good in school. Students from NYC and Kalamazoo can win one of these scholarships. The Turn 2 Proud to be me Program is in Kalamazoo. This program helps kids be proud of themselves just the way they are without needing to use drugs and alcohol. They do activities like Horseback Riding, camping, swimming and field trips. The Turn 2 Smart Moves Program in Kalamazoo helps kids in the Boys and Girls Club feel good about themselves and not use drugs and alcohol. Other classes are offered which teach kids the kind of activities they should do in order to be as healthy as possible. The Turn 2 Staying Smart and the Bay Program is at the Kips Bay Boys and Girls Club in Bronx, NY. This program is keeping kids from doing drugs, and also making them think about what they'd like to be when they get older. Real police and probation officers speak to the kids about what really could happen if they broke the law and used drugs. There are field trips that show these kids how when they make good choices they can do so much and can see how much there is to do in the world.
Derek has a couple other program he is a part of. Derek Jeters Leaders Program given teenagers, a chance to get involved with the community and help others less fortunate. This givesw them a chance to be a role-models for others. Around Christmas Derek helps deliver presents with Santa to children around the city. The gifts are donated by many fans. Derek also donates gifts to the Ronald McDonald House. Derek enjoys spending time with the kids and says it is one of his favorite days of the whole years.
When Derek was young his role-model was Dave Winfield. Derek is my favorite because he helps his community be a better place by helping kids not use drugs and alcohol, donate money to programs that help kids trying to stop, giving kids lots of fun activities to do and helping kids feel good and proud of themselves. Derek says that one of his goals is to "Guide Kids in the right direction so they can become tomorrow's leaders." Derek also once said, "Alot of athletes shy away from this role-model thing, I'm all for it. I was a kid not too long ago. I remember what it was like. Kids are going to look up to you."
- Jenna Zammett, Seward Elementary School
Benjamin Banneker
My favorite African-American of achievement is Benjamin Banneker. Banneker was born on Nov. 9, 1731, and died on Oct. 9, 1806. Banneker was born near Baltimore. Benjamin was good friends with Jefferson. In his childhood, he was interested in math, astronomy and science. Banneker is my favorite because he helped make our country a better place. Benjamin was honest all the time.
He was kind to other people even when they were mean to him. Banneker was always trustworthy to his friends. He was one of the people who could predict both solar and lunar eclipses.
- Te'Von McDougle,
Genesee Elementary School
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