OFFICER VOICES · Summer 2026 · Torch: U.S.
7
Salvete omnes!
We are so close to convention—and catching up with each other again! Compiling the final issue of my solo Torch: U.S., I had the pleasure of reading through so many amazing submissions, as well as designing and laying out all of the items.
In addition, I have also received submissions to the State and Local Publications Contest. Reviewing all your publications has truly given me creativity and inspiration. Editors and officers, please consider submitting your chapter’s or state’s publication over the past year by June 1. Submit to the local contest here, and submit to the state contest here.
As always, please email me at editor@njcl.org for any lingering questions. I can’t wait to see you all at convention!
Cleopatra, clara regina Aegypti
In curru aureo sedet
Oculi eius ut stellae micant
Quae caelum nigrum illuminant
Et multos viros facile movent
Principes ad eam concurrunt
Et verba dulcia eis dicit
Quae in auribus eorum manent
Vultu tranquillo et voce molli
Corda eorum vincit et surgit
Non solum forma pulchra est
Sed etiam ingenium callidum habet
Imperium suvm curā servat
Deinde hostes vincit
Cleopatra, femina fortis
Quae amore et sapientia regnat
LATIN
ENGLISH TRANSLATION
Cleopatra, the famous queen of Egypt
chariots of gold on which she sits.
Her eyes gleam like stars
that light up a black sky
and easily move many men.
Kings flock to her,
she tells them sweet words
that ring in their ears.
With calm and in a gentle voice,
she conquers their heart and rises up.
Not only is she beautiful in appearance,
but also quick in her mind.
She carefully protects her power,
and then defeats her enemies.
Cleopatra, a strong woman
one who rules through love and intelligence.
Olivia Chen
2025-2026 NJCL Editor
Coercive Cleopatra
Cosima Vzszonyi, Dreher High School, South Carolina