TEARS OF A CLOWN:

The Memoir of Mr. RoukisAutobiography Project Defense

January 2010

Chapter 1: Who I Am

I am like the ancient Greek actors who wore theatrical masks.

• I have had my fair share of tragedies.

• I value laughter and I am a part-time comedian.

• Intellectual Standard: This is relevant because both shape who I am today.

Chapter 2: My Neighborhood

ASTORIA, Queens!

•It was first settled by Greek immigrants.•It is still a neighborhood of immigrants: Greek, Italian,

Polish, Irish, Hispanic and Middle Eastern.•I feel connected to my Greek roots here!

•Intellectual Standard: For Chapter 2, I used precise information because I did research!

Chapter 3: Before I Was, There Was

• Peter, the teacher…• Maryann, the JP Morgan employee• They met at a wedding: My mom’s brother

married my dad’s first cousin!• Intellectual Standard: I used accurate information because I had to

interview both of my parents to get this story out of them!

Chapter 4: My Indelible Moment • Earlier, I stated I had my fair share of tragedies…• Ten years ago, two of my childhood friends died. May they rest in

peace….

• Tom P. – suicide• James B. – NY Firefighter – died in the line of duty

• Intellectual Standard: This is an example of significant information because this had a major effect on my life. It inspired me to take a chance and start doing comedy. Life is short!

Chapter 5: The Best Advice

“Dream as if you’ll live forever. Live as if you’ll die tomorrow.” – James Dean

Live your life freely and fully! You should achieve your dreams because life is short and you only get one shot at it.

I went sky-diving and SCUBA-diving! I have traveled to Southeast Asia, Europe (Eastern and

Western), Central America, South America and the Caribbean! I am getting married! Intellectual Standard: This is an example of relevance since all

examples connect to the quote!

Chapter 6: It’s Not Fair • The Death Penalty should not exist!

• It is inhumane.• It costs more money to execute someone than

to give them a life sentence.• 77% of the 9th grade agrees with me!

• Intellectual Standard: This is an example of precision because I used two sources to back up my point of view!

Chapter 7: Someone I Miss• I really miss my friend Tom P.

• He taught me how to laugh.• He helped me acquire my taste in movies

and music! (Evil Dead rocks!)

• Intellectual Standard: I used significant information since it had a great effect on me!

Chapter 8: Obituary and Accomplishments

• John Roukis signed as new SNL cast member!

• By 2030, I will be awarded:

• An Emmy for acting on SNL…• A Grammy for Best Comedy album…

Theme: ResiliencyTo be resilient one can weather any storm….

• Chapter 3: “Even though my parents were married for thirty years, they separated a few years ago.”

• Chapter 4: “When I heard about James’s death, I collapsed in disbelief and profound grief.”

• Chapter 7: “I still miss Tom today, but know he would be proud of who I have become.”

• Intellectual Standard: These are examples of relevance because they all connect to my theme.

Chapter Read: Chapter 4

• Two close friends died within a few months of one another ten years ago…

– I was really hurt by their deaths and decided see a therapist (This was the best decision I have ever made in my life).

– I realized life was short and started performing stand-up and improv comedy.

– I have a greater appreciation for life and attack my dreams and goals (comedy, traveling, adventure)!

Before I Go…• The Autobiography taught me:

• Different writing styles (like writing my own obituary in Chapter 8)

• Grammar: I finally know when to capitalize!• About me and my world: I learned my world has

shaped me due to the significant events I have experienced!

THANK YOU!