[中文版本]

There is a Christmas tree in my house. Every year on Christmas Eve, my dad sets up the Christmas tree because it’s an artificial one. Our Christmas tree is very tall—taller than my mom! It’s twelve years old—older than me! Its trunk is black and smooth, with lots of branches growing from it. On the smaller branches, there are green and pointy leaves.

My dad hangs lights on the Christmas tree. Then, my sister and I hang decorations on it. Among our decorations, some are made of paper, some of plastic, and some of glass. Some of the decorations look like stars, some like balls, some like Santa Claus, some like animals, and some like snowmen. After that, we place a small paper Christmas tree and paper presents under the big Christmas tree. Finally, we put a paper star on top of the tree. We put glitter glue on the star, so it looks shiny, but it can’t actually light up.

This is the Christmas tree that my dad, mom, sister, and I decorate together every year.

By

何芳菲 翻译 (Translation) 2025-06-05

  [中文版本]

One day, Mom took the whole family to the National Natural Botanical Garden for a visit. As soon as I arrived, I caught a whiff of a fresh fragrance. My eyes were immediately drawn to a pink flower.

The flower was big and smelled wonderful, with layer upon layer of petals that were especially beautiful. My mom told me that this was China’s national flower, called the peony. That instantly reminded me—I had painted this flower before in traditional Chinese painting class!

I gently touched a petal of the peony with my hand—wow! It was so soft! The petal felt as soft as a kitten’s fur. I began to observe the flower more closely. Its petals were layered just like a creamy cake, and my mouth started to water like a waterfall! The flower was just too beautiful!

I leaned in for a smell, and the fragrance was simply amazing. As I kept looking, the flower suddenly transformed into a ballerina in a pink dress, gracefully dancing to the rhythm of music. Her dance was so elegant and gentle. I was completely captivated. As she danced, background music somehow started to play, and with the music, her dancing became even more beautiful and graceful! I looked around and saw that all the other flowers were watching the peony dancer too. The garden around me had turned into a luxurious stage, with all the lights focused on the peony ballerina. When her dance ended, all the flowers applauded and praised her. The peony dancer bowed to show her thanks.

Suddenly, someone called out, “Cheng Xindi!” It was Mom—her voice snapped me out of my daydream. That’s when I realized I wasn’t watching a peony performance at all—I was just admiring flowers at the botanical garden!

By

程心笛 翻译 (Translation) 2025-05-02

 [中文版本]

Many people find the rain annoying,

but I find comfort in it.

The ants start moving,

a sign that rain is coming.

The sky turns grey, like stone.

The wind picks up,

and drops begin to tap on the glass—

it has started to rain.

I stay in bed with a book,

while outside, the rain pours down.

I turn on just one light,

and the sound of the rain fills the room.

Everything feels calm.

After the rain, I step outside.

The air is fresh and clean,

and the sky brightens,

soft colors spread across the evening.

Sometimes, I like to exercise in the rain—

it feels different from dry days.

Though many dislike the rain,

I believe it is a gift to the world.

By

刘大卫 翻译 (Translation) 2025-05-02

[中文版本]

Internationally, Friedrich Merz was elected Chancellor of Germany in the second round of voting. Meanwhile, in Mali, hundreds of people gathered in the streets of Bamako in early May, calling for democratic reforms.

In other news, the United States experienced two major tornado outbreaks in May. From May 15 to 16, 55 tornadoes struck the Midwest and Southeast, resulting in 27 deaths. Another 109 tornadoes hit the Great Plains and south-central regions between May 18 and 21, causing severe damage and widespread power outages.

In Australia, continuous heavy rainfall has led to severe flooding.

In science and technology, the CERN ALICE experiment has claimed the ability to transmute lead into gold. In addition, a new study has identified several genes linked to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), which may help improve our understanding of the condition.

In sports, the 2025 French Open began on May 25. Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka are among the top contenders drawing significant attention.

Finally, many high school seniors in Maryland successfully graduated this May. We look forward to their bright futures and continued success!

By

王瑞思 翻译 (Translation) 2025-06-05

  [中文版本]

My family has a dog named Remy. He is a purebred Maltese, and he just turned two! His fur is snowy white, and his eyes are hazel brown. His ears are soft, and the fur around his nose forms a round shape, resembling a cartoon character. He also has short legs and tiny paws. He’s a little guy, so he’s not very big—he weighs about seven pounds.

I’ve noticed that Remy doesn’t like taking baths. That’s because he doesn’t like the feeling of water getting into his nose, and he dislikes water in general. However, he loves going on walks and meeting new friends. We’ve also noticed his favorite food is chicken, and he loves gnawing on bones. One thing my family finds frustrating about Remy’s behavior is that he’ll beg for a bone, hide it somewhere, come back to ask for another, and then secretly stash all the bones in one spot. Since Remy keeps going back to my dad for more bones, my dad thinks he’s eaten them all, not knowing that the bones are secretly stashed away around the house. My family and I often find bones in random places, like the laundry room and the bathroom.

As I continue observing Remy, I’ve found that he tries to act tougher and stronger than he really is in front of other dogs. For example, when I take him for a walk and he sees a larger dog, he’ll bark loudly and even stand on his hind legs to look bigger. But the truth is, he’s scared of the bigger one—he’s just trying to get them to take him seriously. This usually only happens with bigger dogs. If Remy wants to play with a smaller dog, he doesn’t need to act tough because they’re the same size. Interestingly, Remy never barks at home—he’s always quiet and calmly stays by our side.

Even though Remy has many different traits—some good, some bad—my family and I still love him very much. We hope Remy stays a part of our family for many more years!

By

秦夏依 翻译 (Translation) 2025-05-02

 [中文版本]

As the warm spring breeze caressed our faces, many of those around us held celebratory traditions commemorating their legacy and cultures; in the past month, Islamic devotees completed their demanding fasts, Jewish compatriots had their Seder meals after sunset, and Christians honored the resurrection of Jesus with Easter service as well. However, on the opposite side of the world, in the country of the golden stars and crimson flag, the sunny weather of the approaching May means something different: the May Fourth Movement. 

As to its name, the movement celebrates a pivotal event in Chinese history that happened on May 4th, 1919. 106 years ago, in the same warmth of the sun, over 3000 students, led by those from Peking University, marched in Beijing, flying banners and flags over their heads. The sole objective of the students was to protest against the Chinese government and their compliance with the Treaty of Versailles, which decided to transfer German-occupied territories in China's Shandong province to Japan. Coupled with the accumulated pressure of the previous century-long spheres of influence by foreign nations, the young, radical intellectuals viewed this decision, despite China's support for the Allies, as a betrayal by Western powers and a failure of Chinese governance. 

Intertwined with the preceding New Culture Movement, the two advocated for the rejection of traditional Confucian values and the adoption of Western ideals for scientific reasoning, political freedom, and a shift in authority. Such opposition to the republican nationalists and imperialism laid the groundwork for communism and anarchism, inspiring Chen Duxiu and Li Dazhao in founding the Chinese Communist Party.
The May Fourth Movement’s significance lies in its opposition to imperialism, which awakened China’s modern national consciousness and patriotism; its opposition to traditional Confucianism and authoritarian values, marking the awakening of freedom, democracy, and science; and its initiative led by the young people, terming the “May Fourth Youth” as a spiritual symbol of the pursuit of progress and the courage to criticize. Nowadays, this movement is commemorated every year, and May 4th is known as “May Fourth Youth Day” in China. Commemorated annually, this movement is indispensable to China's national consciousness and identity today.

By

沈子越 翻译 (Translation) 2025-05-02

 [中文版本]

Confucianism is a philosophical and ethical system developed from the teachings of Confucius (Kong Fuzi), a Chinese thinker and educator who lived from 551–479 BCE during the Spring and Autumn period of Chinese history. Rather than focusing on gods or the afterlife, Confucianism emphasizes how to live a good life in society — with harmony, respect, and responsibility at its core.

At the heart of Confucianism are a few key concepts:

• 仁 (rén) – Humaneness or kindness: The idea that people should treat each other with compassion and empathy.
• 礼 (lǐ) – Ritual, manners, or proper behavior: Respecting traditions and social roles helps maintain order.
• 孝 (xiào) – Filial piety: A deep respect for parents and ancestors.
• 义 (yì) – Righteousness or moral integrity: Doing what is right, not just what is profitable.
• 智 (zhì) – Wisdom: Understanding how to make thoughtful, ethical decisions.

 Confucius believed that if everyone followed these principles, society would be harmonious and stable. Confucianism puts a strong emphasis on social relationships. It teaches that people should act morally in their roles, such as:

 Parent and child

• Ruler and subject
• Husband and wife
• Older sibling and younger sibling
• Friend and friend
• Each relationship involves mutual respect and responsibility.

In Chinese history, Confucianism was more than a belief system — it shaped education, law, and government for centuries. Civil service exams during imperial China tested knowledge of Confucian texts, meaning that government officials were trained in Confucian thought. Confucianism teaches that a good ruler should act as a moral example rather than rule by force. This idea influenced leadership across East Asia.

Confucianism has deeply influenced not only China, but also Korea, Japan, and Vietnam. Even today, Confucian values like respect for elders, education, and family loyalty remain important in many Asian cultures.

In the modern world, some criticize Confucianism for being too hierarchical or restrictive, especially regarding gender roles. However, many scholars see it as a flexible and evolving tradition that still offers wisdom on how to live ethically in community with others.

Confucianism is not a religion in the Western sense, but a living philosophy that has shaped entire civilizations. It asks people to focus not on what happens after death, but on how to live well, respect others, and contribute to society. Its timeless emphasis on character, harmony, and duty continues to influence millions around the world today.

By

沈安琪 翻译 (Translation) 2025-06-05

 [中文版本]

I’ve loved all types of animals since I was little, but penguins have always been one of my favorites.

I remember the first time I saw a penguin was at an aquarium. I was very young at the time, around three years old, and I didn’t even know what a penguin was. All I knew was that the animals in the aquarium could live in water. I remember holding my dad’s hand as we walked around the aquarium, full of curiosity and excitement. I saw so many animals: dolphins, fish, turtles—there were all kinds of creatures! Eventually, we walked over to a very large tank, and suddenly, a strange and giant-looking “fish” swam right toward us. It moved so quickly, like a shooting star, and in a flash, it disappeared from our view. I quickly asked my dad, “Daddy, what kind of fish is that?” My dad laughed and said, “That’s not a fish—that’s a penguin.”

I opened my eyes wide and exclaimed, “A penguin? What kind of animal is that? I’ve never heard of it!”

Later, I noticed other penguins waddling out from inside the tank, one after another, jumping into the water. They glided and swam through the water gracefully and joyfully. These penguins had sharp, black beaks, shiny black feathers covering their backs and heads, and soft, snowy-white feathers on their bellies. Their black flippers flapped and splashed rapidly across the water’s surface. They also had pairs of pointy, light pink feet that helped them stand steadily on the ice. All the penguins were short, chubby, and incredibly adorable! I couldn’t help but ask my dad if he could buy me a penguin toy as a keepsake. He agreed and got me a pink plush penguin.

From that day on, I completely fell in love with penguins. Whenever I come across books, clothes, or toys about penguins, I collect them so I can learn more and love them even more. Because I love this animal so much, I’ve also learned a lot about them, and I hope that one day I can visit Antarctica to see them in person—and even study them to help protect our Earth and do my part in protecting penguins.

By

杨善谊 翻译 (Translation) 2025-05-02

[中文版本]

Changes Coming to the MCPS Grading System in 2025-2026

To address the grade inflation issue in MCPS, Superintendent Thomas Taylor is preparing to adjust the grading system. A recent proposal (yet to be confirmed) suggests changes to how grades are calculated, potentially adopting a downward trending system or a numeric percentage average system. Additionally, district officials have proposed implementing final exams or projects in English, Math, Science, and Social Studies classes to address inconsistent grading standards. Other proposals include setting clear deadlines for reassessments and late assignments, clarifying the "minimum effort" required for the 50% rule, and reducing the differences between various honors courses, such as those related to difficulty and grading standards.

2025 NFL Draft Highlights

• Cam Ward was selected first overall by the Tennessee Titans, aiming to rejuvenate the franchise.
• Travis Hunter, the Heisman Trophy winner, was picked second by the Jacksonville Jaguars, who traded up with the Cleveland Browns.
• Shedeur Sanders, projected as a first-round pick, experienced an unexpected slide into the fifth round, being chosen 144th overall by the Cleveland Browns.
• Kaden Prather, a Montgomery County native who attended Northwest High School and later the University of Maryland, was drafted by the Buffalo Bills as a wide receiver.

Metro’s Better Bus Network

Some residents may have noticed their bus stop signs being replaced by Metro Bus signs. This is part of the Better Bus Network initiative. The new bus network will introduce new route names, along with changes to routes and bus frequency, designed to optimize service across the region. Current routes will end on June 28, and the new system will begin on June 29. According to their website, the new system aims to improve service and connections, offering more frequent and consistent bus service.

By

刘润宇 翻译 (Translation) 2025-05-02

 [中文版本]

Dogs are our friends. Just like people, every dog looks different. Some have long fur, some short; some have curly hair, others straight, and their colors vary too. I like dogs because they are friendly and fun. Every time I see a dog, I can’t help but smile. If you're feeling down, you can talk to your dog. It will wag its tail and look at you with loving eyes, and that makes you feel so much better.

One of my good friends has a dog named Pluto. I often go to his house to play with Pluto. As soon as Pluto sees me, it jumps on me excitedly and wags its tail nonstop. When I tell it to sit, it sits. When I say stop, it stands still. When I say “shake hands,” it stretches out its front paw and shakes my hand.

Another reason I like dogs is because they are very loyal. Once a dog loves you, it will stay by your side no matter what happens. Playing with dogs is also a lot of fun. Whether it's playing fetch, tug-of-war, or just running around, dogs are full of energy. Seeing them so excited makes me happy too. Sometimes they’re so energetic I can’t even keep up—they run faster than I do! Dogs are always ready for an adventure, whether it’s going for a walk or just hanging out in the yard. They seem curious about everything, and that reminds us to love life.

I really love dogs. They make life so much happier.

By

陈骙钰 翻译 (Translation) 2025-05-02