TASK DEFINITION: In this task you are given a sentence. You must judge whether the main verb of the sentence is in present or past tense. Label the instances as "Present" or "Past" based on your judgment. If there is no verb in the given text, answer "Present".
PROBLEM: exclaimed Hector, " A most fortunate coincidence, for we are heading home to Buenos Aires.

SOLUTION: Past

PROBLEM: Each one pops a balloon and when I'm done, the top row is nothing but deflated pieces of latex.

SOLUTION: Present

PROBLEM: The sharp thumbnails pricked his throat.

SOLUTION:
Past