Emily Saves Sugarville by Becca (age 11) AUDIO INTRODUCTION

Emily rounded the corner and started walking the half block to her house. “This is a wonderful town. I’m so glad I live in it. Everything’s so great, except for what’s happening down at city hall,” thought Emily.

Emily had lived in Sugarville all her life. Sugarville was a sweet little town. You’d never expect that in a town so great that the mayor, Mr. Humphrey, could do such terrible things. For instance, Mayor Humphrey went snooping around looking for secrets so he could blackmail the people of the town. When Emily finally reached her house, it was dark outside.

“Time for bed young lady,” her mom said when Emily got in the house. “But mom. It’s only 10:00 and I’m 13 years old,” Emily said. “Go to bed honey.” Emily walked up the stairs and up to her room. She put on her pajamas and brushed her teeth. Then she turned off the lights and got into bed.

The next thing she knew light was streaming through her window. “I better get up. It’s going to be a busy day. Today is the day I do something about Mayor Humphrey,” thought Emily.

When she went down for breakfast, she talked to her parents about Mayor Humphrey.“I’m sick of Mayor Humphrey,” said Emily. “Well why don’t you do something about him?” asked her parents. “What’s a little girl like me going to do about it? Run for mayor?” Emily did not expect her Mom’s reply. “Why don’t you give it a try?” asked her Mom. “I guess I could.” said Emily.

Emily gathered up a couple of her friends and started making posters and flyers. The next thing they did was go door to door handing out flyers that said ‘A Vote For Emily Is A Vote For Honesty.’ They taped posters all around Sugarville and it’s stores.

“Now we have to gather up some evidence on how much of a creep this guy is,” said Sarah. “But where should we start,” asked Sandy. Then the phone rang.

“I’m not sure. Hold on a minute while I get that. Hello,” Emily said, picking up the receiver. “This is Mayor Humphrey,” said a deep and mean voice. “If you don’t withdraw from the election you and your whole family will be in danger.” Mayor Humphrey then hung up.

Emily walked back to her friends looking stunned. “What’s wrong Emily,” asked Emily’s best friend, Mary. “That was Mr. Humphrey and he said if I don’t withdraw from the election my whole family is going to be in danger,” said Emily. “That jerk! Don’t worry Emily I have a plan,” said Mary. After everyone had gone home Mary told Emily her plan.

“Emily, if you stay in the race Mayor Humphrey is probably going to call back and we’ll be ready. If the phone rings and it’s him we’ll record the phone call. Then we’ll have some evidence on this slime ball,” said Mary. “That’s a great idea,” said Emily.

A few weeks went by and Mayor Humphrey didn’t call. As part of the plan Emily stayed in the race. On Monday morning the phone rang. Emily’s mom got it. “Hello,” she said, “Emily! It’s for you!” “Thanks Mom,” Emily said. “This could be him,” said Mary, she was sleeping over for the night. “Hello,” said Emily. “Who do you think you are you little brat? I told you to withdraw from the race or your family is going to get hurt,” said the voice on the other end. “I’m going to stay in this race until I win it,” said Emily. Then Mayor Humphrey was the one who heard the dial tone. “Did you record that,” asked Emily. “I got every word,” said Mary.

At the final rally before the election Emily and Mr. Humphrey gave their speeches. Emily went last. “Mayor Humphrey is a liar. He doesn’t care about people, he blackmails them! I have evidence right here of what a rotten guy he is,” said Emily. She played the tape. Everyone was shocked by what they heard. “So, if you want an honest mayor please vote for Emily Logan,” said Emily.

Emily waited and waited for the results of the voting. “We’ve counted up the votes, and your new mayor is Emily Logan,” said a loud voice. “I won! This is great,” said Emily.

The next thing she knew, Emily felt a irritating shaking on her shoulder. “Honey wake up, you’ll be late for school,” said Mrs. Logan. “What do you mean Mom? I’m the mayor now,” said Emily. “You must have been dreaming. Now get ready for school,” her mom laughed. “So you mean I’m not mayor?” asked Emily. “No you’re not, but sometimes dreams come true,” said her mom.