Chapter 1 – Nomination
It's Wednesday morning at Beverly Hills High. Clover and Alex are talking before school, waiting for Sam to arrive.
"...So then what did you do, Clover?" asks Alex.
"What could I do? We have a date for the dance next Friday!" says Clover.
Alex sighs, "You're so lucky, Clover! I never meet any hot guys. Especially at the dry cleaners!"
The girls see Sam, and she is obviously excited about something!
"Girls! Girls! I've got great news!" says Sam excitedly.
Clover responds, "Take it easy Sam! Catch your breath!"
Alex adds, "What is it, Sammy?"
After taking a minute to catch her breath, Sam says, "Remember my fuel cell project from the Science Fair last month?"
Clover says, "Sure! You took the Blue Ribbon!"
"Well, I received a letter from the Pembroke Society that my project is being considered for a Pembroke Award! My parents and I have been invited to the Pembroke Gala!"
The Pembroke Awards are awarded annually to the top high school science project submitted for consideration to the Pembroke Society. Only one project per school district can be submitted for consideration, and only California high school student projects can be considered for the award. For a project to even be considered is a great honor!
Alex says happily, "Sammy! That's great! It's almost like being considered for a Nobel Prize!"
"That's fantastic, Sam!" says Clover. "When will you know if you got the award?"
"Well, they will announce the winner at the Gala this Friday!"
"Good luck, Sammy!" says Alex with gusto.
"I hope you win!" says Clover, happily.
As the girls are talking, Sam sees Mr. Fielding. He is the science teacher who nominated Sam's project to the Pembroke Society.
"Excuse me for a second, gals," says Sam as she walks over to Mr. Fielding.
"Mr. Fielding?" Sam asks.
"Yes, Samantha," Mr. Fielding replies.
"I wanted to thank you for nominating my science project to the Pembroke Society, for a Pembroke Award!"
"You're quite welcome, Samantha," says Mr. Fielding happily. "After all, you did win the Blue Ribbon at the Science Fair! Your project on fuel cells is particularly relevant today, with the high price of fuel! I hope you win!" Mr. Fielding offers a congratulatory handshake.
"Thanks, Mr. Fielding!" responds Sam as she shakes his hand. Clover and Alex are all smiles as they watch Sam and Mr. Fielding.
Sam and the girls head for homeroom. "Did you guys read that chapter on Beowulf for English class?"
"Yeah, Sammy! I like the part about ....," says Alex, as the three go to class. Clover is also offering her opinion on the readings as they disappear into their classroom.