Bringing Civics to Life Through Reptilian Rivals
Charizard vs. Eevee: A Scaly Showdown
Salgado's innovative approach involves two bearded dragons, Charizard and Eevee, who are "running" against each other for the title of "school master pet." Each reptile has its own campaign slogan, theme song, and unique personality traits that the students must consider as they cast their votes. Charizard's slogan, "Never Back Down, Never Give Up Crickets," reflects his bold and determined nature, while Eevee's "Girl on Fire" theme taps into her adventurous and fun-loving spirit.The students have fully embraced their roles as campaign managers and voters, using their persuasive writing and artistic skills to advocate for their preferred dragon. They have even created custom voting registration cards to add an extra layer of authenticity to the process. As Angel, one of the dragon caretakers, explains, "It was cool whenever I heard that he (Charizard) was going to be in the election. I learned about voting. I learned that you have a say, and it's tied to something."Cutting Through the Clutter with Creativity
Salgado's decision to use the bearded dragons as a teaching tool was a strategic one, born out of the challenges of navigating the current political landscape with her young students. "From the sheer amount of malicious and sometimes false information that is hard enough for grown-ups to sort through, let alone a kid, Salgado could have settled and talked about the textbook definition of an election," the article notes. Instead, she chose to create a fun and engaging way to cut through the political clutter and help her students understand the voting process.By focusing on the positive aspects of the election and avoiding the negativity that often dominates the discourse, Salgado has fostered an environment where her students can learn and explore the topic without feeling overwhelmed or discouraged. As Jayleen, the other dragon caretaker, shares, "It's been way more better with pets. I didn't know much about elections, and although it was difficult to learn, I liked it because it was something new."Inspiring a New Generation of Engaged Citizens
Salgado's innovative approach to teaching the electoral process has not only captured the attention of her students but also the broader community. City Year Team Leader Nicholas Sandoval, who helped create the custom voting registration cards, expressed his admiration for Salgado's idea, stating, "It gives kids the chance to learn something new that they don't have a lot of exposure to because they just watch the news and see stuff about elections. I never had anything like this when I was a kid."The impact of Salgado's lesson extends beyond the classroom, as she recognizes the importance of engaging young, underrepresented voters. "If we can get seven and eight-year-olds excited about bearded dragons running, I think you can get any child excited about voting," she said, highlighting the potential to inspire a new generation of engaged citizens.As the students eagerly await the results of the bearded dragon election on Election Day, Salgado's innovative approach has not only taught them about the electoral process but has also fostered a sense of excitement and ownership over their civic responsibilities. By using the relatable and captivating personalities of Charizard and Eevee, she has found a way to make the complex world of politics accessible and engaging for her young learners, setting the stage for a lifetime of civic engagement.Empowering the Next Generation of Atlantic City Boxers
Showcasing Amateur Talent and Fostering Community Engagement
On the heels of their professional event on November 16th, Boxing Insider Promotions is collaborating with the Atlantic City Police Athletic League (PAL) to host a special all-amateur showcase the following afternoon. Dubbed the "Battle at the Shore," this event will feature some of the best amateur boxers from New Jersey and beyond, providing them with a unique opportunity to compete in a professional setting.The partnership between Boxing Insider and the Atlantic City PAL is a testament to the promotion's commitment to giving back to the local community. "This is huge for us," enthused Atlantic City Police Lt. Willie Santiago, who has been with PAL for over a decade. "It is our biggest fundraiser of the year." The event will not only raise funds for the PAL's valuable youth programs, but it will also give the young athletes a chance to showcase their skills in front of their families and friends.Empowering the Next Generation of Champions
The Atlantic City PAL boxing program has a long and storied history, having produced a wealth of accomplished fighters over the past three decades. "I'm so excited for the kids who will get to box in a pro setting for the first time," Santiago shared. "We're going to have 15 to 20 kids participating, and two of my former students, Justin Figueroa and Francisco Rodriguez, will be helping with handing out the belts."This event represents a significant milestone for the PAL program, as it aims to not only celebrate the achievements of its young athletes but also inspire the next generation of boxing champions. "This is an event we would like to have annually and show that the city supports amateur boxing, with the longer-term goal of one day hosting the Golden Gloves, in Atlantic City," Santiago added.Fostering a Lasting Impact on the Community
For Larry Goldberg, the founder of Boxing Insider Promotions, this partnership with the Atlantic City PAL is a natural extension of his commitment to the local community. "This PAL event is pure," he stated. "It is 100% a charity event. I'm proud to assist in any capacity." Goldberg, an Atlantic City native himself, recognizes the vital role that programs like the PAL play in providing young people with the tools they need to succeed.By hosting this amateur showcase, Boxing Insider Promotions is not only shining a spotlight on the talented young athletes of Atlantic City but also demonstrating the power of community-driven initiatives. "This is my home," Goldberg said. "Programs like the Atlantic City PAL give the next generation the tools they need to succeed, and I am excited to help with this fundraiser."Building a Sustainable Future for Boxing in Atlantic City
As an independent promoter with deep roots in the area, Boxing Insider Promotions is committed to establishing a consistent platform for fighters in the region to showcase their talents. This will be their third show in 2024, and they are already looking to continue this momentum into the new year.Since their last event, Boxing Insider Promotions has been recognized as the Promoter of the Year by the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame. They were the first promotion to bring boxing back to New York after the pandemic and the first to return the sport to the Tropicana in Atlantic City after a seven-year absence. With their unwavering dedication to the sport and the community, it's no surprise that Boxing Insider Promotions is quickly becoming the most active promoter in Atlantic City.As they continue to build on their success, it's not unreasonable to think that Boxing Insider Promotions could be in the running for New Jersey's Promoter of the Year in 2025. By partnering with local organizations like the Atlantic City PAL and providing a consistent platform for fighters, the promotion is not only elevating the sport but also making a lasting impact on the community.Prime Day Highlight: Must-Have Nespresso Coffee Maker for Under $100
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