Tara Dawn
Tara is a freelance writer, AC Featured Food and Wine, and Local Akron Contributor, currently pursuing a B.A. in Sociology at the University of Akron. She has written on a wide variety of topics-- but particularly enjoys meaningful work concerning community development and sustainability. Her articles, blogs, and musings have been featured in a variety of online publications and she hopes these words will inspire creativity and innovative ways of approaching societal improvement.
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- 45,823
- Content
- 118
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- Contributor since
- 8/21/2007
Education/Experience
The University of AkronInterests
Reading, writing, personal finance, sociology, poetry, music, playing guitar, learning, loving, travel, existentialism, culture, hookah, yoga, psychology, food, and life.Motto
Live like you could die tomorrow.Affiliations
My Website
Displaying Results 1 - 118 (of 118) for Yahoo! Voices
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Adding Healthy Proteins to SaladsGetting enough protein is essential to a healthy diet, but finding healthy sources of protein for a salad can sometimes be daunting. Here we give three tips, with suggestions for your next delicious and protein-rich salad. -
The Office Bistro in Akron, Ohio: Class and Taste in North HillIf you're in Akron, Ohio looking for a classy restaurant with foodie fare and great atmosphere, then look no further. The regular guys would like it, too!
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Why You Should Eat Breakfast to Lose WeightEating to lose weight seems counter-intuitive, right? Not at all. Eating a healthy breakfast is vital for controlling hunger and playing body chemistry to your advantage.
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Best Beer for St. Patrick's DaySt. Patrick's Day is your chance to celebrate Irish heritage and fantastic beer. Here are five that are a bit tastier than your standard green Budweiser.
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Best of Breakfast Restaurants in Akron, OhioAkron boasts many fantastic restaurants, but it takes a certain something to get breakfast right. This article discusses three great breakfast restaurants-- with the right "home-cooked" atmosphere.
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How to Green Your Kid's LunchesPacking is a great way to save money and improve your child's diet. This article shows how you can make lunch better for your kids as well as the environment.
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Packed Lunches for New Years Weight LossPacked lunches are a great way to avoid trips to fast food restaurants or the vending machine down the hall. Sandwiches may get dull, but lunches can be so much more with the right tools and a bit of creativity. -
The Best in Winter Seasonal BeerWinter is the season of many things-- great beer included. Here, your faithful beer snob details her top five picks for winter seasonals this year. -
Where to Find Sustainable and Fair Trade Gifts in Akron, OhioEmbrace the true spirit of giving by purchasing fair trade and sustainability-embracing gifts this holiday season and shopping at these three great Akron establishments. -
A Guide to Thai Restaurants in Akron, OhioA review of Akron's four fantastic Thai restaurants, and honorary awards given to each for their delicious specialties. -
How to Make Your Christmas Dinner More SustainableThough traditionally we think about sustainability in terms of building materials and energy-saving appliances, many sustainable choices can be made easily in regards to your Christmas dinner. Read on to find out how.
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The Stuffing Dilemma: Traditional or Funky?As we plan our holiday menus, our foodie side may be met with resistance as it tries to take over revered classics. Deciding between traditional or unorthodox stuffing, however, doesn't have to be a struggle.
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How to Cook Japanese Food on a BudgetJapanese is a simplistic and refined cuisine that can be quite pricey in a restaurant, but with a little bit of resourcefulness can be very affordable when cooked at home. -
Cracking the Code of Environmentally Sustainable FoodThe media sends us thousands of mixed messages about what "sustainable" and green food are. This article clears up the confusion and addresses some of the factors that contribute to sustainable consuming in the food arena. -
How to Make Your Own Sushi at HomeWhen you love sushi, but can't afford the incredible prices out at restaurants, try making it at home yourself! This article will tell you how.
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Guide to Ethnic Grocery Stores in the Greater Akron, Ohio AreaMany of those from Akron, Ohio may be intimidated by the thought of shopping at an ethnic grocery store, but the fact is that they are often fantastic places to broaden horizons and find rare ingredients at much greater prices.
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Guide to Downtown Akron, Ohio BarsThere are many bars that litter the streets of Downtown Akron. This guide will help you determine which will be best for your night on the town.
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Best Akron, Ohio Restaurants for Healthy EatingThough Akron has a vast array of fantastic restaurants, these five are this author's pick for the healthiest offerings.
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Top 10 Beers for FallAn overview of the best 10 fall microbrewed beers. -
Off the Wall Eatery: Best Breakfast in the Greater Akron AreaA shining review of Off the Wall Eatery in Stow, Ohio.
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The Best Soup in Akron, OhioA guide to finding the most delicious soups in Akron, Ohio.
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Akron Film Festival 2010 Hits Art Museum in SeptemberInformation concerning the 2010 Akron Film Festival, to be held September 23-26 at the Akron Art Museum. -
Akron Zydeco Band Mo' Mojo Stirs Up the NorthsideA review of the Akron Zydeco band, Mo' Mojo.
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Finding Great Wine in Ohio's Amish CountryKnown for their food and woodworking skill, the Amish also inspire delicious wine located in the heart of Dover, Ohio. Here are overviews of three fantastic wineries visited by your friendly AC contributor. -
Back to School Healthy Lunchbox TipsThe old lunchbox standbys may be easy, but they may not be the healthiest choices for your kids. Here are some tips to pack nutrient-rich lunches, all the time.
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Tips for Making Cheap and Healthy College MealsThough the starving college student may not have the biggest budget, healthy meals are a possibility with a bit of finesse. -
Cooking Healthy Food that Kids Will EatFeeding kids can be a huge struggle, but can be resolved with a creative approach to cooking for your children.Also published on:
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Sacred Ground: Akron, Ohio Yoga Studio Lives Up to Its NameA review of what I believe to be Akron's best yoga studio. -
Independent Grocery Stores and Markets in Akron, Ohio: Local and DeliciousThough the chain grocery stores are prominent throughout Akron, there are five wonderful independent markets that bring a lot to the Akron grocery scene.
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An American Guide to Japanese FoodAn overview of Japanese food and dining customs for those a bit less familiar, but interested in sampling the delicious fare.
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A Guide to Military FoodIf you've ever wondered what the brave men and women of our country's military ate on a daily basis, what an MRE actually is, or what to expect during your future enlistment, read on!
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Boats, Ninjas, and Normal Guys: Ingredients of the Best Musical Viral VideosWhereas there are thousands of viral videos out there, both musical and not so much, I feel these are the best that use the music-video platform.
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"Seven Types of Ambiguity," "Cat's Cradle," and "The Handmaid's Tale": Books for the Big ScreenUsing books for the basis of a movie is a common practice-- these three books have wonderful literary value, and plots that would be perfect for a movie adaptation.
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Conscious Living Series #2: Volunteering and Community InvolvementSecond installment of the conscious living series, discussing how volunteering helps foster emotional growth and community.
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Top Five Restaurants for a Romantic Evening in Akron, OhioLooking to plan a romantic evening with your sweetie? These Akron restaurants are great locations for your next intimate evening. -
Does Taste in Beer Indicate Class?Budweiser or Microbrew, Domestic or Import - does what you drink say something about you and your class? Your favorite beer snob explores this idea with two bartenders and implores you to take a look in the mirror. -
Conscious Spending Series #1: How to Buy Local and Strengthen Your Local EconomyThe first installment of an initiative for Conscious Spending-telling readers the benefits of buying from local businesses, and how they can help strengthen their local economy. -
The Top Three Bars in Akron, OhioAkron offers a variety of different bars, but these are the three best-covering a variety of clientele, atmosphere, and drink choice. -
Conscious Living Series #1: "Be the Change You Want to See in the World."The first article of many to come in Tara's new Conscious Living Series-- explaining the concept of conscious living, and imploring you to follow along with a rather practical journey. -
Are Your Friends Making You Fat?There are a variety of reasons why spending time with your friends could be a problem for those trying to battle being overweight, but there are ways to turn this around -- and improve the relationship you have with your friend.Also published on: -
How to Make Your Own Beautiful Chocolate Brown Wedding InvitationsThere's nothing more personal than a wedding, and this article will show you how to make your own personal chocolate brown wedding invitations. -
The Best Summer Beers with Fruit FlavorSummer is upon us; that means lighter beers with our burgers. But you certainly don't have to give up great flavor, just try some of these excellent summer beers with fruit flavors perfect for the warm weather. -
Why Earrings Are My Must-Have Fashion AccessoryThese cute, dangling accessories are fabulous, of course. But there are some less obvious reasons why earrings are my must-have fashion accessory.
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Top 3 Burger Joints in Akron, OhioAkron's got great food, and burgers are no exception-offering three fabulous restaurants that have exceptional (and oftentimes award-winning) sandwiches.
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Ranch Dressing: Misunderstood Condiment or Potential for Gourmet Food?We don't really think "culinary genius" when we consider ranch dressing, but perhaps we should! These three recipes showcase the fabulous flavor of ranch without offending the Foodie palate.
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A Different EndingA poem about starting all over again... with someone you thought you had lost forever. -
Daily Haiku Poem: A Writer's RecipeA haiku about what it takes to be a successful writer. -
How to Give Your Home a Fresh Spring Look with Marble Floor PolishingWhen redecorating for spring, you want to find new ways to bring in more of that gorgeous natural light. Marble floor polishing is a great way to increase lighting efficiency and freshen up your space for years to come.
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Tips and Advice for the New Student at the University of AkronAre you a newbie at the University of Akron? Don't fret. Here is a guide to the most important locations, for whatever activity your heart desires.
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Daily Haiku Poem: Getting ThereA haiku about working toward goals (and my much anticipated winter vacation). -
Three Excellent First Date Locations in Akron, OhioNeed a little guidance with your first date planning? Here are three ideal locations for taking your date in Akron, Ohio. -
Daily Haiku Poem: One Brick at a TimeA haiku about the difficulty of rebuilding after a major life change. -
Daily Haiku Poem: A Cat with a PlanA haiku reflecting Striper's curious ways.
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Daily Haiku Poem: We've Come so FarA haiku about the unbelievability of situations, and relationships!
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How to Set an Appropriate Allowance for Your Son or DaughterSetting an allowance is a great way to foster financial responsibility, but deciding what is appropriate can be tricky-unless you create a budget and talk it out with your child.Also published on:
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Daily Haiku Poem: WarmingA haiku poem about the weather getting warmer with the coming spring. -
Best Restaurants for a Graduation Dinner in Akron, OhioWhen you're celebrating your big day, you want your graduation dinner to run seamlessly. Here are the best restaurants in Akron, Ohio to host the celebration of your success.
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Daily Haiku: An Ode to the WriterA haiku giving kudos to all those writers out there. -
A Guide to Cleaning Tile Grout: Make Your Life Less StressfulWith the busy schedule most of us pull, it's absurd to think that cleaning grout is high on our priority list'"until it gets really bad. These tips will keep your grout clean, and out of the forefront of your thoughts.Also published on:
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Cheap Ways to Have Fun with Your KidsEveryone is feeling the effects of today's economy, but parents can still engage in activities that foster deeper bonds with their children without putting stress on their budget.Also published on:
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Daily Haiku Poem: GhostsA haiku about moving on from the past and embracing the present. -
Daily Haiku Poem: Ohio SpringA haiku about the flakiness of Ohio weather in the springtime. -
Mind Games that Are Great for the BrainMind games are a great opportunity to strengthen the brain by reconnecting certain neurological connections and patterns that are associated with logic, spatial patterns, memorization, and strategy. They can be pretty fun, too! -
10 Healthiest Bar Foods: What to Order with Your DrinksThough we wouldn't generally consider bars to be the typical host for healthy foods, there are certainly healthier options than others. This article will help you navigate through the onion rings and find the best options.Also published on:
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Polished and Decorative Concrete: A Different Flooring ChoiceThough traditionally considered to be dull and banished to the basement, decorative concrete turns the tables on sophisticated flooring and offers a variety of options for homes and businesses alike.
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Daily Haiku Poem: ColorblindA haiku about the "new racism," or colorblindness in our country. -
Top 5 Family Movies that Relay Good Messages to Our KidsThere are a multitude of different movies out targeted to children, but which ones give your kids the right messages? Here I list five of the best, and explain why they're a good influence on your little ones.
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Top Ten Songs by RadioheadThough alternative rock band Radiohead has put out numerous great songs, these are the ones I consider to be the ten best.
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Daily Haiku Poem: Ping PongHaiku Poem about -laying ping pong. -
Ten Healthy Japanese Foods: What to Order at Japanese and Sushi RestaurantsJapanese restaurants offer a variety of delicious, simple foods with delicate flavors. Here I outline what some of the healthiest options are when enjoying Japanese food.
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Daily Haiku Poem: Love in SpringA haiku about love in spring. -
Tree Removal and Maintenance: How to Find the Right Tree ServiceThere are thousands of tree services out there, here are some tips to find one you can trust. -
An Introduction to Conversion Disorder and Somatoform DisordersThere are many discrepancies when it comes to the categorization of somatoform disorders, but this article aims to give a brief and understandable introduction to conversion disorder, and other somatoform disorders currently listed in the DSM-IV.
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NeverlandA poem about a breakup, and the feeling of newness and sadness that follows. -
Daily Haiku Poem: Spring Break is OverA haiku poem about the semester following spring break. -
Hook, Line, and Drinkers - Excellent Bar and Restaurant in Akron, OhioA review of the Portage Lakes bar and restaurant in Akron, Ohio. -
Welcome to the Music Industry - Beginners Guide to Independent Music PromotionWhen you're first starting out in the music industry, it can be overwhelming. But really, there are a few key things you can do to jump-start your independent music career. -
Daily Haiku Poem: FridaysA haiku poem about Fridays!
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Is Music Mastering Important?When it comes to getting gigs, sounding professional is essential. This is why music mastering is a great idea for any up-and-coming musician. -
Gender Roles in Disney's Alice in WonderlandA look at the popular new film Alice in Wonderland and its implementation of gender roles.
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Daily Haiku Poem: ZombiesA haiku about Zombies, and the man that will save us from them-- my roommate. -
How to Get into College: Tips for High School StudentsNo matter how close you are to graduating, preparing yourself will help you get into college with little difficulty-and perhaps get a great scholarship to pay for it! -
International Baccalaureate Program - Is it Worth It?One student's experiences inform the decision that the International Baccalaureate Program is indeed a worthwhile experience. -
Paying Off Student Loans While Still in College - Tips, AdviceMany college students tend to fall in the trap of ignoring their student loans while still in school. This article highlights why it is important to start paying off those loans while still in school - and offers some advice for how to do it.
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Building Relationships by Managing Money TogetherAlthough it won't guarantee your relationship success, managing money as a couple is a great opportunity for building relationships - by strengthening communication skills and embracing cooperation.
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Daily Haiku Poem: Happy St. Patrick's Day!Haiku about the most popular drinking holiday-- St. Patrick's Day! -
Teen Love: Giving Healthy Relationship Advice to Your ChildrenApproaching teen love with an open mind, and discussing healthy relationship practices with your children will set them up for success.Also published on:
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Best Bikini Swimsuits for 2010A list of the 10 best bikini's for swimming season 2010-- includes a variety of shapes and price ranges. -
Daily Haiku Poem: InspirationInspirational haiku. -
New Super Mario Bros. Wii: In the Bubble, Out of the Time WarpA review of the New Super Mario Bros. Wii game-with all its nostalgic glory and entertaining bubble features.
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OrphanedAn original poem about a relationship amidst falling apart.
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Daily Haiku Poem: MondaysA haiku poem about mondays. -
About Love: A HaikuA haiku about hope for an endless love. -
Dockside Sea Grille: Excellent Seafood Restaurant Brings Class to Lake Park, FloridaA review of a local seafood restaurant in Lake Park, Florida. Highlighting the excellence of the food, as well as the great service. -
SpringA haiku about the coming of spring. -
Easy and Delicious Camping RecipesDelicious camping recipes using nothing but a few ingredients, aluminum foil, and a whole lot of creativity! -
The Best Beer is Microbrewed: America's Top Eleven BreweriesA list of what this this textbook-toting beer snob thinks encompasses the best eleven microbrews of America. It includes a variety in geographic location, price and seasonal offerings. -
Surviving a Long Distance RelationshipSurviving a long distance relationship isn't going to be easy, but it is definitely possible if you take the time to look at the quality of your relationship, and improve it in ways that will strengthen it.Also published on: -
Surviving Boot Camp: What to Expect at Basic TrainingThough no amount of advice you read will make boot camp easy, understanding a few things, and knowing what to expect can help you physically and mentally prepare for what will come.
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Dr. Seuss Gives Us Hope for Racial Equality: The Sneetches and Other StoriesDr. Seuss offers us a hopeful message that racial (as well as other physical) discrimination and inequality can be overcome by facing the realities of our consumerist culture.
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The Top Ten Restaurants in Akron, OhioA listing of the best Akron restaurants-- covering a wide variety of ethnic food offerings in the area, in a variety of price ranges. -
"Be Yourself": Sometimes the Oldest Relationship Advice is the BestThough media and the world of consumerism may encourage to market ourselves to potential partners, the age old adage "be yourself" may be a healthier option for attracting the right person and keeping them.
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Review: Akron, Ohio's "Pad Thai"Pad Thai is a restaurant that not only serves great food, but offers its customers a sophisticated, cozy atmosphere perfect for any excuse to have a night on the town.
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The Market Path in Akron, Ohio: Fair Trade at a Fair PriceA store offering quality products for a good cause, at an affordable price. The Market Path in Akron, Ohio promotes advocacy and fair trade.
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Product Review: Field Roast SausageAs for being a meat substitute, they are also very good for you. Each sausage has 240 calories, 10g of fat, but also boasts between 23 and 26g of protein (depending on which variety you choose).
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DJ Hero - a Review from a Non-GamerDJ Hero proves to be fun even for less-experienced gamers.
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Firefly: Kent, Ohio's Own Hookah LoungeMy experience visiting a local hookah lounge proves to be a mild success.
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Looking to Adopt? Try One of a Kind Pet RescueReview of a local pet shelter.
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Akron Hookah House: A Disappointing Experience at an Ohio Hookah BarI was rather excited to discover that hiding in the heart of our little city was a hookah bar. Finding one so close to home was fabulous. When I finally decided to investigate, however, I was not so impressed. -
Friends with Benefits: A Healthy AlternativeOne woman's adventures in dating leads to an unorthodox conclusion.
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The Best Sushi in Akron, Ohio, for Japanese-Food LoversAn avid restaurant-goer, I've sampled many types of food - ethnic and otherwise - and I've come to realize that when it comes to Japanese, Akron has some hidden treasures. -
PersephoneA poem about the contradictions girls are faced with every day in our society.
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Eating Healthy on a BudgetTips for cutting your grocery bill and still maintaining a healthy diet.
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Five Pieces of Financial Advice for the Young Adult, by a Young AdultI think it's difficult these days, among the shopping malls, TV ads and designer handbags, to stay a grounded, financially competent young adult. The messages all around us are screaming, "SPEND, SPEND, SPEND!" So what is one to do?
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Cry No MoreA poem about the overwhelming apathy in the younger generation, as compared to the 70's. A call to action for those in our time to take a stand.
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The Morning AfterA poem exploring the ideas of past rejection and its effect in present relationships.
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Post-Modern JoeA poem about how as Americans we overlook the suffering all around the world. Trying to go for a little perspective...
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Never Be the SameA poem about the love of a boy who couldn't decide what he wanted and the girl who could never let him go.






















