7 June 2013
REMARKABLE: These Poly students are remarkable with a capital “R” for their dedication.
By Kira Roybal, Staff writer
It is no secret that Riverside is the city of arts and innovation in the Inland Empire. It has been voted the 2012 Intelligent Community of the Year, has been rapidly increasing its use of solar energy and, most currently, is home to 25 exceptionally inspiring teens. Every year the Youth Council selects the city’s 25 most remarkable teens, who are nominated by family, friends and teachers.
Emma Cunningham (12) was recognized for her achievement and dedication to the performing arts – to Irish dancing, that is. As the arms and upper body are held stationary, this fast foot-moving dance style keeps Cunningham constantly on her toes, literally. Tight “hard shoes,” which have soles made of fiberglass, support the Irish dancer upon a small platform at the tip of the shoe. During a performance at a competition, or feis, Cunningham sports a curly-haired wig and a solo, a one-of-a-kind dress costume. She must even get a spray tan, a custom at competitions because it accentuates muscular lines.
“People in Ireland wanted to be tan like people in California, so whatever people do in Ireland we have to copy,” Cunningham said.
The UC Berkeley-bound Irish dancer was nominated by her close friend Taris Henry (12). Cunningham explained that Henry filled out the nomination form completely in secret; she had no idea that she was one of Riverside’s Most Remarkable Teens until she received a letter from the city council. “That was one of the nicest things Taris could have done,” she said.
Cunningham took up Irish dance after she saw Riverdance at the age of six. As she became more and more involved in competitions, she began to dance six days a week. At the age of 11, Cunningham qualified for the World Championship of Irish Dance in Glasgow, Scotland, but she had to let this opportunity go because her teachers believed she was not fully prepared. The following year Cunningham qualified again and was allowed to compete.
Her achievements have not come without a price, however. Cunningham has sustained knee injuries, hip injuries and shin splits. Despite the physical challenges of Irish dance, Cunningham prizes the benefits that her sporty art has provided, such as a thick skin for handling critiques and rejections.
“I am usually recognized for my academics, so I was honored to be finally recognized for Irish dance,” she said.
Julia Seiberling (12) was recognized for her community involvement both in and out of school. She was nominated by Mr. Booth, her AP Government and Economics teacher, who was impressed by her confidence in discussing contemporary issues. As they filled out the nomination form together, the extent of Seiberling’s citizenship unfolded.
She has been – and plans to continue being – involved with Girl Scouts since the first grade. In her high school years, Seiberling earned two of the highest awards in the organization. To earn the silver award, she developed a stress relief program for children and brought music therapy to an assisted living facility. To earn the gold award, she created an anti-bullying program that was set in motion at an elementary school in Jurupa. With her high position in the Girls Scouts, Seiberling helps other scouts earn their badges and counsels them as a mentor; just like many Girl Scouts, she spends her vacation time at Camp Sherman.
“Camp Sherman has become my preferred home. It’s where I’ve spent all of my summers for the past seven years,” Seiberling said.
The leadership skills she gained as a Girl Scout have been implemented in her musical life as well. She is the Viola Section Leader and the President of Poly’s Orchestra. Seiberling took up the viola in fourth grade after she witnessed a performance by the Poly Orchestra. She also takes an active role in the club Muse, which brings music to assisted living facilities and elementary schools.
As if she isn’t involved in enough extracurricular activities already, Seiberling has also assisted animal advocacy agencies in setting up animal adoption programs. “Through my activities, I’ve become much more social. They’ve opened my eyes to the world as a whole rather than just the little bubble that I’ve lived in,” she said.
One of Seiberling’s heroes and role models is Juliette Gordon Low, the founder of the Girl Scouts. She admires Lowe for the impact that she has made on the lives of many girls, who would not have the chance to participate in social events and sport activities otherwise. Seiberling carries the attitude and dedication of the founding scout through her continuous involvement in community programs.
“I’m not changing lives; I’m just connecting with people in a new way. The feeling that you are making a difference, even though it’s not dramatic, is rewarding,” Seiberling said.