SMS Warrior News
May 2017

Sports

By: Payton Betts

So far in 2017 we had 12 teams in the playoffs, but unfortunately it only comes down to one team, who will that team be? Right now only 4 teams are in the playoffs those teams are Packers, Falcons, Patriots, and Steelers. People sometimes say that the patriots are going to lose but that's just because they're mad about the deflating, but they are doing good this season but have lost their key player in a injury Rob Gronkowski. On the other hand the Steelers have beaten teams with Le'veon Bell and Antonio Brown. The Falcons have really good defense so it will be tough for the Packer offense to move the ball down the field. Packers offense is incredible with Randall Cobb they have Jared Cook who was a backup for Jordy Nelson, and they also have Davante Adams. Thank you for reading let me know what you think and who you think's going to win??

The Super Bowl is the most important game in football. It shows the best of the league that season. What leads up to the Super Bowl is the regular season and the play-offs. The play-offs are important because it’s what the teams train hard for and play their best to get to the Superbowl. When you get to the Super Bowl so many people are there and that’s not all, people are watching at home!Last year the Bronco’s and the Panthers got into the Super Bowl. It was a really good game to the best teams in the league playing to see who’s the better team. I forgot to mention after the second quarter the best half-time show comes on. There are great singers that come and do performances and when that’s over they play the last quarters and that’s when it gets good. After they come back to the game to the game they’ve had their rest and pep talk. Then they play even harder and when the game is over there is confetti and the winning team gets a trophy.

-Asheton

Iowa State vs Kansas State

By: Lewis Barry

This is one of the biggest rivalries in the big 12, it is so big fans and students camped outside for weeks outside hilton coliseum just to get inside. Iowa State has won the last two matchups against Kansas. It started out fast and close every time Iowa State made a big basket Kansas answered with a 3 or a jump shot. Finally Iowa State brought the game to a 3 point deficit. It came down to the wire again. Could Iowa State pull it off or would Kansas pull it off? Iowa state fought hard but Kansas pulled it off 76-72.

BIGGEST SHOT IN NBA HISTORY

It’s clearly the most important shot in Cleveland Cavaliers history. But it’s also the biggest shot in NBA history the Wall Street journal found that kyrie Irving's 3-pointer in game 7 swung the odds of winning the game and championship by 32 percent. There was less than a minute left and the game was tied 89 to 89. The cavaliers put the ball into Irving's hand and he flipped the score! That shot stole Cleveland its first sports championship in more than half a century! That championship transformed the image of the entire city. The shot changed everything. Cleveland’s win probability when Lue called timeout was a coin flip: 50.2%. It inched upward with every dribble and spiked when Irving shot. Cleveland’s likelihood of winning the game and the NBA title was suddenly 82.3%. According to the journalists that was the largest swing the league had ever seen. Kyrie Irving’s shot was compared to Michael Jordan's shot in game 6 of the 1998 finals, Ray allen’s in game 6 of the 2013 finals , Robert horry’s in game 5 of the 2005 finals and John paxson’s in game 6 of the 1993 finals but Irving still came out on top.

Steelers

The Steelers are a great football team. They won the super bowl 5 times. And they are in the 2017 play offs. The quarterback is a 3 time all star is Ben Roethlisberger. They also have a 4 star running back. That's how god the steelers are.

------- Bryce Q

By: Sam Nigg

Do you think playoff football is better than the regular season? Well I do and this is why. First, the playoffs are more intense because it is a bigger deal to win the playoffs so more people watch to see if their team wins. Next, the best teams and players are playing because only the best teams are allowed in the playoffs so all the games are competitive. Lastly, The games matter more because they lead up to the Super Bowl and the Super Bowl is the ultimate goal for a football team/player. The playoffs are better than the regular season because it is intense, has the best players/teams, and the playoffs lead to the ultimate goal called the Super Bowl.

Top 3 UFC Fighters

Here are the top 3 best UFC fighters.

First, The first best UFC fighter is George St. Pierre. He was the welterweight champion. He was born in My 19, 1981 and has loved doing fighting since he was a little kid. He had been the welterweight champion since 2007. But he retired at the age of 31.

Quintin Loeb

NFL Playoffs

The NFL playoffs are one of the most exciting few weeks of the year. First of all, the NFL playoff is watched worldwide and the thrill of all the games leading up to the playoff is one of the best experiences I have ever felt. Starting with the wild card round, then the divisional round and then the conference championship matchups that all lead up to the super bowl. Next, the hype and all the controversy over calls and weather conditions and decisions made by players and coaches. The things that go down in the playoffs are truly life lessons we can all take into account and it will show us how much the organizations want to win the super bowl. Finally, the super bowl is just one of the greatest accomplishments you can achieve in sports. The feeling you receive when accomplishing small things like a race or a game of cards is good but imagine being the best football team in the world pretty amazing, right?

That is why the NFL playoffs are one of the most exciting few weeks of the year.

NFL Playoffs

Recently the playoffs had just begun starting with these sixteen teams. Miami Dolphins, Pittsburgh Steelers, Kansas City Chiefs, Oakland Raiders, Houston Texans, and the New England Patriots for the AFC. In the NFC the teams are Dallas Cowboys, Seattle Seahawks, Atlanta Falcons, New York Giants, Detroit Lions, and the Green Bay Packers. After just two weeks into the playoffs, (as of 1/16) there are now just four teams in the playoffs.

These teams are the Pittsburgh Steelers, New England Patriots,Green Bay Packers and the Atlanta Falcons. The Pittsburgh Steelers beat the kansas city chiefs and the miami dolphins while new england knocked off the houston Texans. On the NFC the Falcons beats The seahawks and the packers beat the giants and the cowboys. It was Quite a win by the patriots, What a comeback!!

~vance

NFL PLAYOFFS

The NFL playoffs are underway. Are you up to speed on the action? A lot has happened this NFL season and it’s already the playoffs. Some of the rounds have gone by and we will give you the rundown. The first round is the wild card with the games of Giants vs Packers and Lions vs Seahawks in the NFC, Raiders vs Texans and Dolphins vs Steelers in the AFC. The winners from this round were Seahawks, Steelers, Texans and Packers. These winners went on to the conference championships. Packers vs Cowboys, Seahawks vs Falcons in the NFC, Steelers vs Chiefs and Texans vs Patriots in the AFC. The winners were Patriots, Packers, Steelers

- Vance peiffer

Basketball Update

by : Garrett

Today you are going to read about basketball things. First north Carolina basketball coach, Roy Williams has 800 wins. Second girls UCONN team is look for another streak. Third the NCAA tournament selection begins. I hope you have a good rest of your day with your refreshed sports mind

NBA

The NBA is a very big organization of very good basketball players. First there is two teams competing against each other with a team of five players. They have five players because each team has five positions. Secondly, Out of the five positions some of them are, Sf, Sg, Pf, C, Pg. Usually the sf and pg score the most outside and inside the perimeter but mostly pf and c usually score inside the paint. Lastly, most NBA players have to practice everyday to stay in shape for the season. NBA players are on diets like they can’t eat candy, junk food and fattening foods etc. Lots of them train with each other.

- Evan Halverson

NBA Draft Prospects

#1 Markelle Fultz- He is a freshman and played for Washington in college. He was a point guard. He got NCAA Pac-12 All Freshman Team with Washington.

#2 Lonzo ball- He is a freshman and played for UCLA in college. Ball was the point guard for them. He got Naismith High School Player of the Year.

#3 Josh Jackson- He is a freshman and played for Kansas in college. He was the small forward for them. He got Big 12 Freshman of the Year.

#4 Jayson Tatum- He is a freshman and played for Duke in college. He was a small forward for them. He got Gatorade National Player of the Year.

#5 De’aaron Fox- He is a freshman and played for Kentucky in college. He was a point guard for them.

Sources-Draftexpress.com

By: Adhi

NFL Draft

#1 Myles Garrett- He was the 1st pick and went to the Cleveland Browns. He will be a defensive end for the Browns in his rookie year. Garrett has also received Dallas Defensive Player of the year as a highschool senior.

#2 Mitchell Trubisky- He was the 2nd pick and went to the Chicago bears. He is going to be the quarterback for the Bears in his rookie year. Trubisky has been said to be a top dual threat quarterback.

#3 Solomon Thomas- He was the 3rd pick and went to the San Francisco 49ers. He is also going to be a defensive end for the 49ers in his rookie year. He won Pac-12 defensive player of the year.

#4 Leonard Fournette- He is the 4th pick and is going to the Jacksonville Jaguars. He will be a running back in his rookie year with the Jags. He has received US National High School Offensive Player of the Year.

#5 Corey Davis- He is the 5th pick and is going to the Tennessee Titans. He will be a wide receiver in his rookie year with the Titans. He has received 2016 Mid-American Offensive player of the year.

Sources-NFL.com

By - Adhi

2017 NBA Playoff Predictions

By: Logan C. & Dae’Vion T.

This is the NBA playoffs Bracket. DT and Logan are going to predict who wins it all.

Logan’s round one predictions West

- Golden state Warriors advance

- Clippers advance

- Houston Rockets advance

- Memphis advance

DT’s round one predictions East

- Chicago Bulls advance

- Washington Wizards advance

- Cleveland advance Milwaukee Bucks advance

Logan’s second round West

- Golden State advance

- Memphis Grizzlies advance

DT’s second round East

- Chicago advance

- Milwaukee Bucks advance

Logans Conference Finals west

- Golden State Warriors Advance to Finals

DT’s Conference Finals

- Milwaukee Bucks advance to Finals

Logan’s Finals Winner

Golden State Warriors

Dt’s Finals Winner

Golden State Warriors:(:(:(

Jeremy Hellickson

By Drew Pelton and Caden Sposeto

Stats

Position: Pitcher

Bats: Right • Throws: Right

6’1”, 190lb (185cm, 86kg)

Team: Philadelphia Phillies (majors)

Born: April 8, 1987 (Age: 30-016d) in Des Moines, IA us

Draft: Drafted by the Tampa Bay Devil Rays in the 4th round of the 2005 MLB June Amateur Draft from Hoover HS (Des Moines, IA).

High School: Hoover HS (Des Moines, IA)

Debut: August 2, 2010 (Age 23-116d, 17,406th in MLB history)

vs. MIN 7.0 IP, 3 H, 6 SO, 2 BB, 2 ER, W

Rookie Status: Exceeded rookie limits during 2011 season

2017 Contract Status: Signed thru 2017, 1 yr/$17.2M (17)

Service Time (01/2017): 6.045 • Free Agent: 2018

Agents: Boras Corporation

Full Name: Jeremy Robert Hellickson

Sites

http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hellije01.shtml

Top Ten Current Basketball Players in the NBA

By Noah Brandt

The National Basketball Association has brought many good players that are fun to watch and have many talents. Today I will be counting down the top ten basketball players in the NBA. They will be judged by their stats, their team record, their roster, and their awards. Let’s get started!

10. Chris Paul

CP3 has lead his team to the fourth seed in a very tough western conference. His passing ability and his defense puts him at number 10.

9. Demarcus Cousins

Boogie is a machine in the post. Nobody can stop him from getting a rebound. He just cannot get his team wins and keep a good attitude.

8. Isaiah Thomas

It’s so amazing how much the 5’9 Isaiah Thomas has accomplished in the league. He is the most clutch player in the NBA and with help from Avery Bradley and Al Horford, they have been able to surpass the Cavaliers for the first seed in the eastern conference.

7. Stephen Curry

Stephen Curry has established himself as the best 3 point shooter of all time. With the help of his team, the warriors are the best team in the league without a doubt! Curry was also able to step up when his teammate Kevin Durant was injured.

6. Anthony Davis

The brow has been able to step up bigtime or his team. Leading his whole team (Include Boogie Cousins) in points, rebounds, and blocks. HE is the next Tim Duncan, considered to many.

5. Kevin Durant

Now as a Golden State Warrior, Kevin Durant has not been putting up as insane numbers in OKC because of the talent around him. He is still putting up insane numbers anyways.

4. Russell Westbrook

Westbrook has taken Oscar Robertson’s title away from him. Recording 42 out of the 81 games he played with a triple double! What doesn’t make him higher on the list is the fact that his team is only a 6 seed in the playoffs.

3. James Harden

The Beard has lead his team to the 3 seed in a tough Western Conference. Besides his defense, Harden is the best offensive player in the league.

2. Lebron James

King James is arguably the most athletic player in the league, and is one of the best defenders in the league. He can shut down anyone he faces and almost guarantee the finish in the paint. What doesn’t make him #1 is the fact that he has choked at the end of the season and lead his team to only 51 wins in an expected 60 win season.

Here are our honorable mentions:

Giannis Antetokounmpo

The Greek Freak has showed up for his team this year, leading them single-handedly to the 6 seed in the eastern conference. His insane height for a small forward who has played point guard before has made him the guy of the future and a big threat for the NBA.

Jimmy Butler

Jimmy Buckets is one of the best two-way threat in the league. His offensive and defensive presence is a big threat to the league and he has barely clinched his team a playoff spot.

And now for the best player in the league:

1. Kawhi Leonard

The Claw has lead his team to the 2nd best record in the league ALONE. He is the best Defensive player in the league and that is not debatable. He is also one of the best offensive players in the league as well.

That was my list of top 10 current basketball players in the league.

Waukee News

An Intense Waukee Girls’ Basketball Game I Watched

By Kadyn Morrow

Double overtime makes the game so nerve wracking and exciting all at the same time! Especially when two of your girls are fouled out! First,sitting in the bleachers with your hands in your lap to clap LOUD and cheer loud too!! It is so nerve racking waiting for the end of the game to come not knowing if you gong to win or not. secondly , when you have two girls on the team fouled out you really get nerves especially when two of the best players have four fouls. Never know when they might foul and might have to forfeit forfeit the game. Finally you don't know if the girls are going to even try because they might be tired from the rest of the game before. It is so nerve racking watching the other team with ball because they can score at any chance they get.I think all of that is why it made it so exciting to watch because all

Mathcounts Competition

Greeshma Joseph

On Saturday, January 7, 2016 there was a JV mathcounts competition. The competition was for kids who are in mathcounts but did not make the top 12. It was very close call with the winner of the competition as Nikitha udipi with Jackson Minton in second place and Arun dixit in third place.

Cats vs. Dogs Summary

As you know in march we did a cats vs. dogs fundraiser to help make shelter animals lives better. Our total score was cats with 72 and dogs with 43, even though the dog lovers may have been disappointed, but both cats and dogs did great! When we packaged the items, we were amazed. We had never imagined that we would get that many donations. We want to personally thank anyone who donated to the fundraiser. Also, when we went to drop off the donations they were so grateful and we got to meet some of the cats and dogs YOUR donations helped. So we want to thank you again for all of your donations and we hope you have a good summer!!!!

-Lily Rand

"Thank You." Pinterest. Web. 24 Apr. 2017.

Local and World News

The Inauguration

By Brynn Herren

On January 20th 2017 there was an important event that occurred.

Inauguration Day is when the new president that was picked to be president moves into the white house and the old president moves out of the white house. The new president has to make swears on stuff. The chief of justice or oath administers the swears/oath to the new president. The chief of justice is the head of the United States Federal Court System, also known as the Judicial Branch. They’re allowed to be the chief of justice for the remainder of their life or when they would like to retire. On January 20th, 2017, President Donald J Trump was confirmed President. 160,000people attended the public ceremony. Donald J. Trump is the oldest and wealthiest person ever inaugurated. After Trump Was Sworn in. There was a Parade. But during the parade things got very VERY messy. There was a mass amount of protesters and also a women's march. That eventually got cleared up by the police. That night Trump and his wife were now considered president and First Lady of the united states. Their son is named barron and he is 10 years old. No one hears from him because he likes staying out of the Limelight. There for Inauguration Day is always a very action-packed day and has lots of interesting events that happen.

The Inauguration

By Simran Mehta

There was an Important event in our Nation’s history on January 20th…”And Will To The Best of my ability, preserve, protect and defend the constitution Of the united States.” And with those words Donald J. Trump became The 45th president of the united states!

People have different opinions of President trump. 53% of people say they feel “uneasy” about the election of trump, although 51% are Hopeful. But They’re not willing to give Trump a chance, 58% are while 39% are not, as you can see we basically have a nation divided. As Most people know, Trump has a lack of respect for for a wide range of people, including women, Immigrants, And lots of different races. Surprisingly their votes are split 50-50 when talking about his vision, %0% are clear while the rest are not! As all of these surprising facts we have talked about, this is the most surprising, 73% of Trump voters are surprised he won but 23% aren't.

Even though we may or may not like Trump everyone should have a chance whether its for being a friend or president, so we should give him a chance whether we like it or not. People are going to have to face the consequences or embrace the win.

Inauguration day

By: Matilde Vega-Servera.

1/24/2017

January 20th was an important day in this country. The inauguration of Donald Trump, as the 45th president of U.S.

That day he was wearing a nice tuxedo with a red tie. In the other hand his wife Melania Trump, is a former model from Slovenia, was wearing a light blue dress with light blue gloves and heels that match.

On this very special day and after swearing to the country and God that he will be the president of all the people, Donald Trump rode a black sub cavalier all the way to the white house, accompanied with his big family. He has 5 children, 3 of them are boys and 2 girls. He only has one kid with Melania, Barron and he is just 10 years old.

The name of the other children are: Ivanka, Donald Jr, Erick, Tiffany, Donald Jr.

Yes, I know, he named 2 kids with his own name…

He also has 8 grandchildren.

Retaking the point of the way to the white house, he actually stop the retinue, and walked a little with all the family in front of his Hotel. They waved to all the people that celebrated him. There at the inauguration.

In this 7 days of government he already sent to the congress a lot of new changes. For example: he will change the health system, and signed 2 executive orders to start building the famous wall.

Write or talk about politics is definitely not a kids thing, so let’s move to another theme.

Fun Facts about the President that maybe you didn’t know.

1)He has a star on the Hollywood walk of fame, since 2007.

2)His remarkable hair is due to blow-drying his hair forward and then combing it backward.

3)2 Continue with the hair style, he allowed Jimmy Fallon to mess up his hair to prove that it was not a wig.

4)Donald Trump has his own game board, a Monopoly launched in 1989 the game does not exist any more.

5)He has portrayed himself in cameo appearances in movies and on TV, example: zoolander, home alone 2 lost in new york. I think they’re good movies.

6)His parents send him away to New York military school at 13 years old. They thought he needed more discipline.

7)Donald Trump did the ice bucket challenge.

I believe that no matter what others say or think about Donald Trump I Matilde Vega-Servera wish to this great country a awesome administration, even or better than the last one.

Thank you :)

Works Cited

-CNN

-Wikipedia

-The Fiscal Time

The Inauguration

There was an important event in our nation’s history on January 20th. They’re in an important meeting for the president to be sworn into office. The new president is Donald J. Trump. Most presidents are sworn into office by saving their oath on a bible. Now president trump will lead our country for the next four years.

By: Gabe Cowan

The Inauguration

An important event called the inauguration occurred in Washington D.C. on January 20th of 2017. There, Donald Trump took the oath of the president. His wife and five kids were also there on the stand, they’re now the first family of the United States of America. Their choir was the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. We all hope the best of our president.

By,

Joseph Isaak

The Inauguration

By: Brian Smith

On January 20th we elected a new president named Donald Trump. There were many people there. They’re happy for our new president. The Trump family’s new home is the white house.

Inauguration Day

There was an important event in our nation's history on January 20th. It was the inauguration for President Trump. Even though he was elected back in November he is now the 45 President of the United States. That means President Obama and staff have ended their eight year term in the oval office. For many people they took to the streets to protest against Donald Trump becoming President. More than 200 protesters were arrested, six police officers injured in D.C. alone. They hammered out windows of limousines and eventually launched rocks at police. The crazy thing is in Oregon last year police arrested 112 people but at least 69 of them did not vote. Some of them weren't even registered. But now Donald Trump is President and we have to come together as a nation and start taking steps forward. As you can see this is a very important event.

By: Cade L.

Inauguration

By: Bella

There was an important event in our nation’s history on January 20th. Every 4 years we elect a new president. On January 20th he or she is officially our president. On that day the have 5 hours to move the existing president's family out of the white house and the new president's family in. January 20th is the first day that the president can fulfill his or her campaign promises. Since 1937 inauguration day has taken place on January 20th following the presidential election, it starts at noon that day. The president is sworn into office. There are so many ceremonies such as balls, speeches, parades and an oath taking ceremony. In conclusion January 20th is a very important day in the U.S.A.

Inauguration

There was an important event in our nation's history on january 20th. Mr.Donald J. Trump was named 45th president of the United States of America. There was a huge parade, full of tons of people , a few protests, and lots of security. Next, Donald Trump pulled up to the white house with his family. They were greeted by former president Barrack Obama and his wife, Michelle Obama .They’re given Thank you’s and good lucks as they enter into the inauguration. During the inauguration they had a performance from a choir singing beautifully. Finally Donald Trump was named president and gave a great speech. Giving us info of what he will do as our president. The inauguration is over and Donald Trump is the new president.The obama’s have left the white house and we thank the for their service in the white house. For the past 8 years. And as trump moves into the white house we hope he can fulfil his promise of ‘making america great again.”

-Charly

Inauguration

There was an important event in our nation's history on January 20th. It was the inauguration for president Trump. Even though he was elected back in November he is now the 45th president of the United States. That means president Obama and his staff have ended their eight year term in the oval office. For many people they took to the streets to protest against Donald Trump becoming president. More than 200 protesters were arrested, and six police officers injured in DC alone. They hammered out the windows of a limousine and eventually threw rocks at police. The crazy thing is in Oregon last year police arrested 112 people but at least 69 of them did not vote. Some of them weren't even registered. But now Donald Trump is president and we have to come together and start taking steps forward. As you can see this is a very important event.

~ Anne Anonymous

Inauguration Writing

By: Lewis Barry

On January 20th Donald J. Trump was sworn in as the most unpopular president in modern history.

As ticket holders were trying to get into the capitol building to see their president, they were delayed because of the riots outside the building. Also there weren’t as many people at this years inauguration as past ones. With previous presidents they might have been more popular than Trump because they’re more loyal to their country by either enrolling in the army or being a lawmaker. My final reason is that he was the most unpopular incoming president is because he was criticized for not being diverse in his advisor picks.

Those are some of the reasons why Donald Trump was the most unpopular incoming presidents in modern history.

Inauguration Writing

By: Noah Brandt

There was an important event in our nation’s history on January 20th.

The inauguration is an event that happens once every 4 or 8 years. It is the time where the new president is truly announced president. After the inauguration, the new president replaces the old president and starts his term as president.

On January 20th, president Donald Trump had his inauguration. He has now replaced former president Barack Obama as our president. Everyone used to think Donald Trump was a bad choice for candidate. But as soon as he was elected, he hasn’t shown any signs of being a bad president.

Donald John Trump was born on June 14,1946 (70 years old). He has been married to Ivana Trump, Marla Maples, and Melania Trump. He is currently married to Melania Trump. Donald Trump has 5 children. Ivanka, Tiffany, Eric, Barron, and Donald Trump Jr.

Overall, the inauguration was one of the most important events in our nation’s history.

Inauguration

There was an important event in our nation's history on January 20th. First, We had a close election. President Trump and former first lady Hillary Clinton were our top two runners, ending with a win for President Trump, But Clinton with the popular vote. There were a record breaking amount of people at his inauguration than any others. President Trump and his family are moved into the white house. They’re settled in for the next four years when the next election rolls around. So let's hope that Trump will “Make America Great Again”

Breaking News
With Nolan K.

1.North Korea sends photo of “advanced technology” to U.S Government as a threat,

Seriously… Is this a joke?

I mean, how can we really fear them if all their technology is outdated, they probably have no phone coverage either…

2. Chipotle speaks out after recent health scares claiming that they will become “the safest place to eat.”

Hopefully they’ll go further and stop the real health problems from never cleaning the tables or floors...

3. This day in history, April 26th.

This day in history, April 26th, 1986, was the worst nuclear power-plant explosion of all time at Chernobyl, U.S.S.R.

This has been

BREAKING NEWS

With Nolan K.

Earth Day was April 22 so go help the Earth.

Go bike and don’t drive. Just walk, bike, or ride a scooter. Don’t drive to school, work, or the mall to save gas. Turn the lights off when you leave your room or house.

Go outside. Save energy and unplug things that are plugged into a device. Help pick up trash. Don’t waste water when going to the bathroom or taking a shower.

World News
Russia Meddling with the Election

By: Adhi Ajith

As Donald Trump is the new president of America, he has faced many controversies about Russia meddling with the election. The U.S. have been tracking Russia and Putin to find any evidence of meddling with the election. According to BBC News, a US Senator said that Russia “tried to hijack the US election.” And they used “propaganda on steroids.” Russian president Putin has denied the claims but people are getting more and more suspicious. According to the New York Times, F.B.I director Comey confirmed that the F.B.I will investigate Russia’s ties to the election and will place a criminal investigation on the White House doorstep. They will pursue it “no matter how long it takes.” Will this be a wild goose chase or will they find evidence that leads to an answer?

North Korea Bomb Threat

By: Adhi Ajith

As North Korea advances their technology and nuclear weapons, many people wonder what Kim Jong Un will do to the face of America. What is the president and the secretary of defense going to do about the issue? North Korea has said that they have nuclear weapons that can travel to the US and many bomb threats to come. North Korea had just launched a missile but it ended in failure. According to the LA Times, North Korea is continuing to create an aggressive weapons program. Trump says that everything is going fine but is it really okay and what is going to happen?

Baking and Cooking

Caramel Macchiato Cupcakes

-Simran

Do You Love Delicious Desserts, and are you always trying new ones? Well this recipe is just for you!

Here are The Ingredients you will need:

Ingredients:

2 cups of flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 cups sugar

1/3 cup Pure Canola Oil

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

3 large eggs

1 cup sour cream

1/3 cup milk

1 1/2 tablespoons Instant Espresso Coffee, dissolved in 2 teaspoons warm water

FROSTING

1/3 cup milk

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon Instant Espresso Coffee, dissolved in 1 teaspoon warm water

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

3 1/2 cups powdered sugar

1 cup All-Vegetable Shortening

1/4 cup Caramel Flavored Topping

Once you have gathered all the ingredients for the frosting and the cupcakes batter we will start making it!

Preparation

Step 1 For Cupcakes: HEAT oven to 350°F. Line 24 muffin cups with paper liners. Whisk flour, baking soda, salt and sugar in medium bowl until combined. Beat canola oil, vanilla, eggs, sour cream, milk and espresso mixture in medium bowl with electric mixer on low until blended. Mix in flour mixture 1/3 at a time until batter is smooth. Divide batter evenly in prepared muffin cups.

Step 2 Bake for 15 to 18 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.Then Cool!

Step 3 For Frosting: STIR milk, salt, espresso mixture and vanilla in a medium bowl until dissolved. Add powdered sugar. Beat on low with electric mixer until creamy. Add shortening. Beat on high until light and fluffy. Spread or pipe cupcakes with frosting. Drizzle with caramel topping!

These Cupcakes are an amazing Treat and can be enjoyed with anything!

I Hope You Enjoy this AMAZING caramel Macchiato Recipe!

Chocolate Chip Mug Cake by Katie

This weekend I was bored at home, scrolling through Pinterest. Then as I was randomly scrolling I came across the chocolate chip mug cake. I asked my mom if I could and I made it. It only took me about five to ten minutes. It would probably just feed one person.

Ingredients:

- 4 tbsp all purpose flour

- 2 tbsp brown sugar (lightly packed)

- 1/4 tsp baking powder

- 3 tbsp low fat milk

- 1/8 tsp vanilla

- 1/2 tbsp vegetable oil

- 2 tbsp semisweet chocolate chips

Directions:

1. Mix all ingredients together except for the chocolate chips in a microwave safe mug. This cake is small and should just reach the top, after cooking, of an 8 oz. mug. You can use a larger one it would just be lower in the mug.

2. Mix until you have a smooth batter without lumps remaining

3. Stir in half of the chocolate chips. Sprinkle remaining half over surface.

4. Cook in microwave for about 1 minute. Let cool a few minutes before eating.

What are the top 3 Bakes of 2016?

Do you love sweets? How about dessert after dinner? Well, I have the top 3 American desserts!

#3 Cream puffs! Simple but delicious, bite sized and full of flavor. A thin, soft, cake layer and almost yogurt center will for sure delight your taste buds!

#2 Cornbread! That’s it! Just cornbread. I have to say though when cornbread is done right I almost crave it! An outside shell that is buttery but super soft and crumbly inside. Perfect delight for second place!

Finally and the most popular… APPLE PIE! Apple pie is a fine choice for a craveable, flavor packed, sweet dessert. A nice flaky crust and lightly spiced apples make this amazing dessert the number 1 choice!

Hope you enjoyed the top 3 baked goods!

-Parker Moore

Chocolate Chip Cookies

Arun Dixit

One delicious dessert that my family and I have recently baked are Chocolate Chip Cookies. We had never baked cookies before, so we were unsure about how it would turn out. It was quite the new experience! We got our gloves on and turned our brains on. It takes a lot of skill to make a batch of chocolate chip cookies! Let us Begin!

We read through the steps and followed the instructions. We worked as a team in a serious way, kind way, and a somewhat silly way! Time passed and passed, and my mouth was a melting volcano. I really wanted to eat one! Then it happened! My father and I pulled the delicious sight out of the oven! What a glorious sight! How attractive! I am sure that I lost myself in the midst of the creamy melted chocolate chip cookie!

We carefully collected all the cookies on to the dining table! We did not want to lose this wonderful opportunity of eating fresh homemade cookies! Sitting side-by-side my parents, as well as myself, began the show! Cookies in all sizes, and cookies in unique forms: large cookies, small cookies, round cookies, and fat cookies! It was almost like a cookie world! That’s one cookie to my best friends and my sweet loving family!

My family and I really enjoyed making the cookies and especially eating them. I hope with my delicious story one day you will make your own cookies and devour them with joy like we did. I will conclude my story with one piece of advice: Live the cookie moment! It may never come back!

Baking

Kira

Some foods like baking can be yummy but have bad ingredients that are unhealthy for you, but taste good. But you can cook healthy food and and it still will taste pretty good. But you can get sick and tired of it and you bake.

Pretzel S'mores Bites

These tasty s'mores are a fun twist on a campfire classic. Even though normal s’mores don’t use pretzels they add a nice contrast to the sweetness of the marshmallow. This recipe is meant for kids or families because it's easier and faster than most recipes. It's a fun activity on a day off or on a weekend.

Below is the full recipe

Start with pretzels laid out on a cookie sheet. You’ll want to put one pretzel for each s’more you plan on making.

The next step is to lay a marshmallow on top of each pretzel.

After that you put a little spoonful of peanut butter on top of each marshmallow.

Then you put another pretzel on top of that.

The final step is to generously dip them in melted chocolate.

Source: http://www.wellplated.com/smores-bites/

Why Cooking and Baking is Fun

by : Taylor

Cooking isn't just serious, it can be fun or creative. First of all you can make new recipes, old recipes, or family recipes. Second, you can do decorative treats or just plain normal treats. Lastly, you can bake with family or friends so it can be more fun. In conclusion cooking and baking doesn't have to boring, but it can be fun and creative.

Too Much Chocolate Cake!

By: Meliana A. & Alyssa F.

Chocolate Cake Ingredients:

- ¾ cups butter or margarine, softened

- 3 eggs

- 2 cups sugar

- 2 cups flour

- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

- 1 teaspoon baking soda

- ¾ teaspoon baking powder

- 2 teaspoon of vanilla

- 1 ½ cup milk

Chocolate Cake recipe:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. Grease and flour three 6" X 1 1/2" round cake pans.

3. Mix together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder and baking soda. Set aside.

4. In a large bowl, beat butter, eggs and vanilla.

5. Gradually add sugar.

6. Beat on medium to high speed for about 3-4 minutes until well mixed

7. Alternately combine in flour mixture and milk to batter while beating.

8. Continue to beat until batter is smooth.

9. Pour equal amounts of batter into greased and floured round cake pans.

10. Bake 30 to 35 minutes.

11. Check with a toothpick to see if it is done. Bake a few minutes more, if needed.

12. Remove from oven and allow cakes to cool in pans for a few minutes.

13. Place cakes on a wire rack, to them allow to completely cool.

Thanks for reading our newspaper, and we hope you enjoyed learning how to make a chocolate cake!

Source:
www.holidayinsights.com/recipes/chocolatecake.htm

Rainbow Cake in a Jar!

-Lilly Gehling

The rainbow cake in a jar is a fun and bright treat. You can always count on a sweet treat to cheer you up and this is just the one. This delicious treat is easy and just uses a couple of simple ingredients.

Ingredients:

- White cake mix (make according to instructions)

- Neon food coloring (Pink, yellow, green, turquoise, and purple)

- Jars

- Vanilla frosting

- Rainbow sprinkles

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 365 Degrees.

2. Spray inside of jars and set aside.

3. Scoop out about ½ a cup of cake batter into 5 small bowls.

4. Tint each bowl with the batter until vibrant.

5. Spoon about 3 teaspoons of each color and repeat until at the top of the jar.

6. Place the jars in a shallow baking dish, add about 1/4″ in water in the baking dish.

7. Bake in the oven for about 40-45 minutes.

8. Remove jars and let cool completely before adding frosting on top.

McLay, Brooke. "Rainbow Cake in a Jar." Babble. Babble, 27 Feb. 2017. Web. 21 Apr. 2017.

Perfect Mug Cakes

By Emma Kirschner

This is a simple recipe that tastes delicious! It is from Ree Drummond from Food Network. These are decadent chocolate mug cakes.

You will need:

3 tablespoons of flour

3 tablespoons of sugar

2 tablespoons of cocoa powder

¼ of a teaspoon of baking powder

A pinch of salt, which is optional

3 tablespoons of milk

3 tablespoons of vegetable oil

3 tablespoons of chocolate chips

And finally, vanilla is optional

To cook/make:

Mix all dry ingredients with a fork in a bowl. Then add the wet ingredients and mix until smooth. Now add the chocolate chips. Then pour the mixture into a 12 ounce microwaveable ceramic mug. Microwave on high for 90 seconds. Don't overcook! Now let cool for 2 to 3 minutes. Then you can top it with powdered sugar, whipped cream, fruit, or sprinkles. Get a fork and enjoy!

Big Daddy Fried Chicken

RECIPE by Samara and Yamaja

Big Daddy Fried Chicken:

What you need:

1. Chicken Legs

2. Knife

3. Lawry’s Seasoning salt

4. Lawry’s lemon pepper

5. All-Purpose Flour

6. Plastic bag

7. Frying pan

8. Canola Oil

How to Prepare it:

1. Get your seasoning salt and lemon pepper and take 1 of your chicken legs and spread a pinch of each of the seasonings onto the chicken on both sides and then repeat on all the other chicken legs.

2. Put your oil in your frying pan and turn your burner on 5.

3. Put your flour in a plastic bag.

4. Put a few of your chicken legs inside the plastic bag with the flower inside.

5. Shake the bag a few times until all the chicken legs are all covered in flour.

6. Put the chicken in the frying pan with the oil.

7. Wait 6 to 10 mins until you see the chicken turning a golden crispy brown.

8. Take out the chicken and put it on something that is lined with paper towels.

9. Put the chicken on a plate and serve and enjoy!

Student Writing

Zelle Walters

Under a tree sits a person. A person with thoughts and a heart. A person who makes mistakes and has regrets. A stranger sits under that tree. A friend and an enemy. Someone who has laughed and someone who has cried. Someone who might dwell on the fact that their life could quickly end. Someone who might live in the moment. Someone who might be caught in the past.

The Society of The Midnight Star

By Ben F.

I walk home from school, bubbling with excitement about my class’s upcoming field trip. At that time, I would never guess that after that day, my life would never be the same.

As I walk in the door, I greet my mother with a wave and my grandfather with a bow (Something we do in Japanese culture). My mother has a worried look on her face. What’s going on? “Yao, I have some bad news,” my mother tells me, sitting down and motioning for me to follow.

“What is it?” I ask curiously, with a sick feeling seeping through my body. She hesitates, trying to find the words to tell me.

“We got a letter from the government. I’ll let you read it.”

Instructions To All Persons of Japanese Ancestry: IMPORTANT NOTICE

All persons of Japanese ancestry must report to the following train stations at 5:00 AM on January 22. All persons will be allowed 2 lbs of luggage, including holding bags. All bags must be securely tied and clearly marked with the family name. A responsible member of the family, preferably the head of the family, must report to the Civil Control Center for futher instructions at 5:30 PM. Failure to comply with these instructions will result in a fine of $200 to imprisonment for 25 years.

I look up from the letter, my eyes filled with tears. “Why are they doing this mother? Where are they taking us? Will they make us go since father is in the army?” I ask, barely holding in tears.

“I don’t know, Yao. Pack your things. We won’t be coming back for a very long time.”

* * *

Despite my mother's protest, I didn’t come downstairs that night as we sold most of our stuff and had a goodbye party. I sat on the bare floor feeling miserable, listening to the sounds of laughter below me. It outraged me that my mother and grandfather were acting like we were just moving, not being shipped away by the government to some mysterious land. I hoped my father could cheer me up when he got home from that dumb meeting about leaving our lives behind and going to some weird mountain camp. How could this day get any worse? I hear my mother say goodbye to our last guest and close the door. Something feels odd. It is too quiet. The birds stop crowing, and the wind stops blowing. All of the sudden a sound pierces the air- a gunshot. Screams go up around the street. My first thought is Father! Where is he? I climb down the ladder from my ladder and race down the street. My mother calls back to me, but I don’t listen. The street is deserted except one lonely car and inside it- my father. He is gasping for breath, with a big wound in his chest.

“Goodbye Yao, I love you.” He gasps before slumping down and closing his eyes for the last time ever.

I start sobbing. The only other thing with him is a note scribbled by whoever committed the crime that said, “We cannot trust the Japanese” and a golden box with an odd circular symbol. I grab the box, stuff it in my pack for tomorrow, run upstairs and watch the events happen as a blur from my window. They take away his body. I cry for what seems like hours and eventually fall asleep.

* * *

When I wake up it is 3:30 AM. We are leaving for the train station in half an hour. I grab the box and look inside it. Inside, there is lots of papers with notes scribbled all over it. Some equations and diagrams. There are even notes about aliens and area 51. The book is titled the society of the midnight star. It is already 3:55! It feels like 2 minutes have passed. I stuff the box in my pack, throw some clothes on, and run downstairs. My grandfather and mother are standing with their packs and we start walking. The train station is only about a mile away, and we arrive at about 4:40. People murmur rumors about the camps and how bad the conditions are. All of the sudden, we hear a loud train roaring into the station. It has multiple cars, only one of which have seats. The seats, of course, are for the women and the elderly. I stand for hours as we drive up and down hills in the middle of nowhere. Finally, the train stops. We all step off onto the side of the road and a soldier yells instructions. I figure out we are in northern Washington state, near the border of Canada.

“Attention everyone. Please assemble yourselves in groups by health. Healthiest at the back, elderly and weak at the front. You are to climb up that hill in the south east direction for one mile and then head west for half a mile. You should find yourself at your new home. Don’t try to escape. There is no civilization for 300 miles. We will see you by 7:00 pm for your dinner.”

I head for the back of the group composed of mostly young-middle aged men. Towards the front there are more elderly, pregnant women, and children. We start trudging at a slow pace through the hills and valleys. It is cold and icy and many are slipping. After hours of trudging through snow, we finally reach camp. All that our “new home” has is 2 large cabins and one medium wood heated cabin, a well a fire pit, an outhouse, and a few rotting wooden picnic tables. Since we are here twenty minutes earlier, I head to a large cabin labeled “Men's cabin”. Inside is “bunk beds” that are more like thin wooden planks stacked on top of each other. I see some of the older men and wonder if the planks will hold their weight. I take my bed linens and spread them across my small plank and put my bag at the foot of the “bed”. By now they are calling us out for dinner. We gather around sitting on the dirt floor. The pass around bowls of some thin soup and a quarter of a piece of bread. I didn’t even realize it, but I was really hungry. I eat like a wolverine and finish my food within seconds, wanting more. They start rattling off our duties and our daily schedule.

“At 5:00am men will scavenge the area for meat. They will hunt and report back to camp by 5:58. Men are not allowed to eat it until as it will be stored in a fridge At 6:00 the women ages will get up and cook the eggs from the hens. They may be permitted to cook meat from the previous day's dinner. At 7:00 am all persons will report to the fire pit for breakfast. At 8:00am all persons will be required to do an exercise....”

I listen to the camp leader drone on and on about our daily schedule. Immediately, I know I’ve got to get out of here.

That night I study the notes in my father's box. I read something about a time machine that he was working on. What was my father’s actual job? Was he not a soldier? Although I did want to build this time machine, I knew I didn’t have the resources out here. The next morning I get up and grab a bow and arrow. I catch a small rabbit and a deer. I help skin and cut it. Breakfast is small only about half an egg with water from a nearby well. My stomach growls with nothing to fill it. I go lay down on my plank and fall asleep. When I awake, it is already 4PM. I see my mother talking to my grandfather in Japanese. I walk over and start talking to them.

“On September 30th, We need 12 buckets of water in the morning, plus 30 rabbits in addition to cook dinner.”

My mother seems to be talking nonsense! What could it mean? That night we eat even thinner soup and less bread. Everything here seems to be thin and dull. The bread, the soup, the people, the bed planks, everything. I think about the riddle trying to figure it out, and it hits me. I knew what the riddle meant.

* * *

As the weeks pass, the people, along with me, get thinner and thinner, weaker and weaker, tireder and tireder, and more and more miserable. But the day is approaching. I am one of the only ones who is keeping track of the date. And finally the day approaches. September 30th.

* * *

The time is 12:29 AM. I am about ready to leave and try to make it to the meeting place. Slipping through the cracks of the cabin, I tip-toe my way across camp. My feet move across the camp, the leaves crunching like old bones. The guards on patrol duty walk pass me. Immediately dropping to my stomach, I lay flat on the ground and hold my breath.

“Hey, What’s that?” one of the guards say pointing his flashlight at my back. I am dead for sure. In my mind, I can hear the gunshot whizzing towards me. The trees seem to be singing funeral songs.

“I don’t know what that is, but what I do know is that I am super tired. Let’s cook up some hamburgers and go to bed,” says the other guard.

My first thought is Hamburgers! They are feeding us almost nothing but they are eating big, juicy, hamburgers! I want to scream in fury but I have to stay quiet and keep going.

They walk off and I get up and tiptoe towards the well. On the other side of the well there is my mother, grandfather, and a few others squatting down on the ground. Looking up at the sky, I see ginormous moon. As it flashes across the people’s necks, there is one thing in common. They all have a tattoo of the “Midnight Star” that was on my father's box! The moon is almost in the prime position, directly above the well. Suddenly, as tche moon shifts so it’s reflection covers the entire surface of water a bright beam of light connects the moon with the well. Almost immediately, like a frog catching a fly, one of the strangers with the tattoo jumps into the well. One by one people jump into the the well like the. The moon starts shifting and I hear guards running. An uproar of Japanese cheers go up throughout the camp, praying that we would escape. After all we had persevered together, we had grown pretty close. My heart beats like a hummingbird's wing. Would I make it? I am the last one to jump. Finally it is my turn. I jump into the well.

* * *

I fall down the well for what seems like eternity and finally reach the bottom. Water completely surrounds me, but I can breath. Then I hear a soothing voice saying,

“Welcome Yao. Welcome to Atlantis.”

Advice ~ from Alesandria Lo

As we grow up and our maturity level increases we learn to handle many emotional and physical changes. First, you may not change as quickly as others. It used to not matter as long as nobody else started feeling and looking different but now It sometimes can become a race but just know you have to only worry about yourself. Next, you will start to change physically and emotionally,you may feel like you need to change or you are changing and you are feeling insecure, the best way to handle that is to take deep breathes every time you are feeling insecure. Finally, the older you get the more you feel pressured by peers,as you get older and make new friends you feel peer pressure and it can make you feel like you need to do things you don’t want to do or can’t do but what you can do is to think about your choices before you take action. In conclusion, emotional and physical changes are strong but you have to remember that you are stonger in every way.

Top 10 Random Facts:

1. Don’t smile! No, seriously, you’re scaring me. Cherophobia is the fear of fun.

2. Billy goats will actually pee on their own heads to smell more attractive to the females. (Don’t ask.)

3. No one likes to admit it, but we all fart. And if one person continues to fart for about six years and nine months, you have created enough energy to fuel an atomic bomb!

4. Now, you might think your wife is high maintenance, but Arab women will divorce their husbands if they don’t pour coffee for them. Just think of that next time you're buying that diamond necklace your wife's always wanted.

5. Just like your fingerprints, every person’s tongue has a unique print. That would make an interesting phone, wouldn’t it?

6. In 1518, there was a month-long plague called dance fever. While this sounds fun, it actually was just dancing against your will until you die.

7. Earthquakes can actually take our precious time away. The 2011 earthquake in Japan actually took about 1.8 microseconds off our day.

8. The longest musical performance in history is currently taking place in the church of St. Burchardi in Halberstadt, Germany. The performance of John Cage's "Organ²/ASLSP (As Slow As Possible)" had started on Sept. 5, 2001, and is to finish in 2640!

9. An epidemic of laughing that lasted almost a year broke out in Tanganyika in 1962 Several thousand people were affected, across several villages. It forced a school to close. Other symptoms included crying, fainting, and rashes.

10. There are around 60,000 miles of blood vessels in the human body. If you took them all out and laid them out, they would stretch around the whole world more than twice. But seriously, don't do that.

Cited Sources

https://www.thefactsite.com/2011/07/top-100-random-funny-facts.html

Short Stories

By Elissa Burrows

The Monster

I ran and locked the door. Screams filled the air, it was already too late, I was DEAD. It was at my door, I could hear it breathing. My head was saying, “Run, run, run as fast as you can.” But if I did, I would be dead. Then, the door cracked, Ahhhhhhhhhh!

The Door

I ran as fast as I could. I knew I shouldn't have taken the dare. Suddenly, someone grabbed my shoulder. The door slammed shut behind me.

Spirit Party

The house was bright with rainbow lights. I could hear loud music playing. I walked up to the door. I opened it slowly ... creak. I looked inside. No one was there.

Cruise Ship

The ship is crushing the canals. Oh no...crunch! Not the church. Why does it only happen in Venice? Why does it happen to me?

The Harp

The sound of a waterfall. But there was something else. A harp? It was truly a beautiful melody. I had to find out where it was coming from. I turned around the bend, and I found the harp. Where's the musician? I found the musician… and it’s not friendly.

Lucy

My name is Lucy, and I’m the last one left. They got the others. They're coming for me. If you are reading this please remem-

Under The Rug

Again? Why can it just go away? It’s such a hideous lump. But this time I was prepared. I grabbed the bat and swung, but it kept moving. I made big holes in my floor. I don’t care anymore so I left it there. It's been fifty years and the lump is still there.

Dragon!

I dashed around the bend, and I heard a roar behind me. There was a dark tunnel, and warm air was coming from it. I saw a red glow at the end of the tunnel. “Hello?” No answer. Then it got really warm. Fire bursted out of the tunnel. DRAGON!

The Power

The power is out. No light, just darkness it surrounds you. Why is the power out? It’s not even windy. “It’s probably just a glitch,” she said trying to reassure herself. But deep down she knew she was wrong. She felt something touch her back or... someone touch her back. It was cold and wet. “Hello,” her voice trembled with fear. No answer. “Ahhhhh!” The lights came back on, and she was dead.

Virus

I was on the computer. Click. Then it all went bright, and I was in the computer. Why am I going to the trash? HELP… HELP… HELP… HELP….HELP….HELP….

Memoir

By Elissa Burrows

Wow! Fourth grade, and I’m finally a big kid *jumps in the air*. I thought this year was going to be the best year ever. Well, I’m writing a whole story about this year. Do you think it was the best year ever? Well no, it wasn’t. I found out the worse type of torture, bullying. By the second month of the year, the year was going downhill so fast. This hill was more like a cliff, and I jumped off. Just to not embarrass the bully and my friends, I will not use their names.

I was walking inside from recess just staring at the bare concrete, wishing I had some chalk to add color to the bland grey. But life had to give me two left feet so I tripped and bumped right into the bully. “Elissa tried to hold my hand,” he shouted like one of those old newsboys trying to sell the daily newspaper. Everybody started to laugh like a bunch of wild hyenas.

“N-no I didn’t,’’ I stuttered, trying to hold back the waterfall of tears. Don’t worry, it just gets better and better. I made some friends: Ava, Bertha, and Charley. They were nice, but one day I turned around the corner and heard them talking. I couldn’t help overhear their conversation.

“I’m sick of Elissa following us around,” Ava declared.

“I was just pretending to be friends with her, to be a nice person, but she’s so annoying,” emphasized Bertha. Well Charley just sat there and said nothing. My heart broke in two just like when you die in Undertale. That’s when I made the worst decision of my life… no talking. I never said a word. Most people thought I was just shy, but I just didn’t want them to laugh at me. One day I was sitting in the back, just thinking about things that rhyme with banana. Bhrianna, Johanna.

“Elissa, why does the earth rotate?” the teacher asked.

Louisiana-

Did she accidently call on me? I was horrified. It felt like my face was on fire. “ ,” That’s what I said. The room roared with laughter. If I didn’t know what was going on, I would think we were at the zoo. That very second my heart turned to dust, and the particles blew away in the breeze. That day I went home in tears, and I stomped up to my room and cried. I cried my heart out. I screamed, I kicked, and I cried my soul out. Then I stopped. Just stopped. I stopped screaming, and I stopped crying. Why am I doing this? I thought. It doesn’t matter what they think. I can be myself, and take it as a compliment. I could also plot their deaths in great detail.

“YES!” I exclaimed. Well, the year got better. I made some friends and discovered my true talent: comedy. The bully never stopped bullying, but I never stopped fighting and I never gave up. That’s what really counts.

P.S I got bullied next year #greattimes

The Alien From Planet Earth

By: Atharva U.

Day 3,652

I...I...I’ve lived in this opening in the woods for ten years. All I get is monthly drops from a cargo plane. I get papers, pencils, and a pound of fruits and vegetables. But the question remains… why aren’t they helping me get out!? Believe me, I’ve tried. But I always end up back here. I’m surprised I’m still sane… right? This is my last diary entry because I’m 43, and extremely sick. Tonight I die. Good-bye world, which I know and love.

-James LI,,z/zo#@

Epilogue: James Lovell was an astronaut. At the age of 31, he was sent to the alien planet, Alfanea. Two years passed as he traveled through space. When he reach the atmosphere of Alfanea, he lost control and crashed. In a state of panic he thought he was on Earth, and he forgot how to man a spacecraft. He began to lose sanity. He thought, “Oh, Lord, I’m so dead. Might as well speed up the process.” With suicide in mind he removed his helmet. But soon he realized the atmosphere has oxygen. As he breathed in and out he reclaimed sanity.

Four years had passed since he had left Earth, two years since the crash. Not a message was sent in the four years. NASA lost all hope after four years. But James’s wife, two daughters, and son lost hope after eight long, lonely years. But back on Alfanea the Alfanian scientists were completely clueless why the humans sent James. So he became a science experiment. The Alfanians gave him a monthly supply drop. It contained a half pound of fruits, a half pound of vegetables, ten sheets of paper, and three sharpened pencils. They wanted to see how long he could survive with little food and also observe his thoughts after death. He spent his last ten years in that forest, not even knowing that he was on Alfanea. On Earth, the name, James Lovell, was honored and he was called, “The Alien From Planet Earth”.

Note:This story is meant for your entertainment. It is fiction.

James Lovell

Real facts:

- James A. Lovell was born on March 25, 1928, in Cleveland, Ohio

- His father, James Lovell Sr., died when Jim was only five years old

- His mother, Blanche, raised him in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

- There he Jim when to Juneau High School, became an Eagle Scout, attended the University of Wisconsin from 1946-48, before transferring to the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 1952. Lovell furthered his education at Harvard’s Advanced Management Program in 1971

- Lovell married Marilyn Lillie Gerlach

- Working in the U.S. Navy, Lovell served on several assignments. Including landing jets on aircraft carriers at night, training that would serve him well throughout his career. In 1958, Lovell graduated Naval Test Pilot School, beginning his a career as a fighter aircraft and jets tester

- In September 1962, NASA selected Lovell for astronaut training

- Gemini 7 took from December 4-18, 1965, and held the record for longest time any human was in space until the Soviet-manned Soyuz 9 in 1970

- On March 1, 1973, Lovell retired from the Navy as a captain, and NASA at same time

- He was part of Gemini 7, Gemini 12 and Apollo 8, and Apollo 13 missions

- In 1995, Lovell and Jeffrey Kluger wrote Lost Moon: The Perilous Voyage of Apollo 13. The book later was made into the 1995 Oscar-winning movie: Apollo 13

Works Cited

"James A. Lovell, Jr." Biography.com. A&E Networks Television, 25 Feb. 2016. Web. 24 Apr. 2017.

All Eyes On Ally: A Story

by Mara Schnoes

CHAPTER 1: Another Morning

Every night my mom would tell me, “Tomorrow at school you need to stay with Ally, make sure no one hurts her.”

I always respond with, “I know Mom, I just hate it.’’

My mom says, “We all hate to see her go through this. Go to bed now.”

“Goodnight mom.”

“Goodnight Lilly.”

The next day when I woke up, Ally was in the bathroom staring at her face again. “Ally, it’s okay. Come on, let’s get ready for school.” She nodded and I wiped her tears away.

“Girls, get down here! The bus is three blocks away!” We grabbed our breakfast bars and ran outside. My friend, Wendy was waiting for me at the bus stop.

“Hey Lilly! Hi Ally, how was your weekend?”

“Pretty good,” I said. “We went to a movie on Saturday, and on Sunday we went to the mall!”

“Fun!” she said kindly.

The bus arrived and our bus driver kindly greeted us. “Hello girls! How was your weekends?”

“Good.” We all said and sat down. Katie, Ally’s best friend, was sick today so Wendy, Ally, and I all sat together.

“Ally, you seem so quiet today, is everything alright?” Wendy asked caring.

“Yes, I’m just tired,” Ally responded.

When we got to school, everyone ran off the bus and rushed into school. Wendy and I stayed with Ally because she can’t run. “You guys can go ahead, I don’t mind walking alone,” Ally said innocently.

“No, we are not leaving you,” I said.

When we walked into Ally’s classroom, the one person I hated the most was waiting for us, Sheila Casie. She was always bullying Ally, and she is in my grade! Ally is only in second, and she can’t help what’s going on. “Hello… Ally. I see you have your body guards today.”

“Why can’t you just leave her alone?!” I screamed.

“Ooh, big sis is talking back,” Sheila said rudely.

“You know what Sheila? You’re a creep, if you need to pick on a second grader for what she looks like… you will NEVER have friends- pretty much like now,” I snapped. She just stared back in awe. I walked Ally to her desk, then Wendy and I walked back to our class.

“Are you okay?” Wendy asked caring.

“Yeah, I just hate people like that. I mean, I still see people look at her funny in the hallways. Come on! We are more than half-way into the year.”

“Yeah,” she said, “I get it.” Just then, to make my day even worse, this happened.

“Lilly Martens to the office please. Again, Lily Martens to the office, thank you,” the announcements read.

“UGH! What now?”

CHAPTER 2: The Office

“Yes?” I asked the office lady annoyed.

“Right in there sweetie,” she pointed to the principal's office.

“Thanks.” I knocked and Ms. Leighton, our guidance counselor, opened the door.

“Come on in Lilly,” she said. There sat Sheila, the principal, and Ms. Leighton.

“What’s going on?” I asked. Mr. Delton spoke first.

“Well, Sheila here tells me that you were being mean to her and calling her names. Is that true?” he asked. That does it, I’m about to scream.

“ARE YOU KIDDING ME?! She has been bullying my sister since her first day of kindergarten. So what if I got mad? Who wouldn’t?” I took a deep breath and stared right at Mr. Detlon.

“Is that true Sheila?”

“No!” she yelled. “Why would I bully an innocent little girl- who can’t help that she’s deformed?” Oh no, she did not just say that.

“She is NOT deformed!” I yelled. “She has a syndrome!” I was so mad, I wanted to scream.

“Well, I’m torn, what should I do Ms. Leighton?” he asked.

“I have an idea!” I blurted out.

Mr. Delton turned to me, “Well?” he asked.

“Call my friends and my sister down here, and they can tell you the truth,” I said, proud of my idea.

“Splendid!” Mr. Delton exclaimed.

“Great,” I said. “Can I have the microphone for the intercom please?” I asked politely. Mrs. Kanden gave me the mic and I said, “Wendy Phen, Lucy Smith, and Ally Martens, please come to the office. Again, Wendy Phen, Lucy Smith, and Ally Martens to the office please. Thank you.”

“Nicely said Lilly,” said Ms. Leighton complimented.

“Thanks,” I said. When they all got here, I went out to greet them. “Hello ladies, follow me,” I smirked.

Wendy ran up to me and said, “What’s going on?”

“Oh, you’ll see,” I said with a devilish grin.

“Hello, ladies,” Mr. Delton said when they walked in. Wendy saw Sheila, and her eyes widened. “So, Sheila tells me that Lilly was being mean and calling her names this morning. Is that true?” Wendy stepped forward.

“No well kind-of. Sheila was making fun of Ally- as usual, and Lilly got mad, I mean wouldn’t you?”

“Sheila?” Mr. Delton raised his eyebrows at her. She nodded yes slowly.

“I’m sorry,” she said untruthfully.

“Alright, thank you girls for coming.” He turned to us.

“I’ll walk you out.” Mrs. Leighton said.

CHAPTER 3: The Baseball Game

I couldn’t sleep at all that night. I was so excited. We are going to a baseball game tomorrow! The next morning I woke up with a big smile on my face. Ally and Mom were already eating breakfast at the table. “Thanks for waiting for me.” I laughed, so did they. I ate quick, and we left. The ballpark was 2 hours away so, when we got there I was hungry again. When we got in, we got food first. The cashier was putting money in the cash register from the family before us.

“Hi, welcome to Fengies,” he said, still looking down. “How may I help you? (gasp) “ He looked up and saw Ally. “Oh-sorry ummm...how may I help you sweetie?

“Can I have a 4-piece chicken tender basket please? Oh! Also, a large...”

“Ahem!” my mom looked at Ally.

“A small grape slushie please?” Ally said.

“Yep, anything else?” he asked.

“Yes, can I have the chicken crispy sandwich please?” My mom ordered. Then he looked at me.

“Can I have the regular-size hot dog please? And, a lime slushie.”

“What size?” he asked.

“Small.” I said.

“Is that that all for you guys?”

“Yes, thank you,” my mom said kindly. When she got the receipt it said something that wasn’t right. “Excuse me, sir?” my mom turned back.

“Yes?” he said, confused.

“This says a cheaper amount than what you said earlier.” My mom showed him the receipt.

“Yes, well here at Fengies, we give off a little for cancer kids, deformed kids, etc.” he said proudly. There was only two things that made my mother angry. When someone talks about dad, and when someone calls Ally deformed.

“Excuse me?!” my mom was really ticked off. “My daughter is NOT deformed! I am keeping this discount BUT, if you ever say that again- you won’t be able to write anymore discounts. Good day.” My mom grabbed our hands and we went to our seats. Right when we sat down I think everyone scooted away from us. Come on, she’s not gonna hurt you.

The game started and the best thing happened! Ally, mom, and I were on the jumbo screen! But, when everyone saw Ally, the whole ballpark went silent. I mean, honestly, I could hear a pin drop. Finally, the perfect pop-fly was hit right to us. Everyone stood up and crowded around us that I couldn’t even see! But then, BOOM! The ball fit perfectly into my hands. “Yes!” I yelled. I looked down at my mom and she was smiling. Ally however- wasn’t, I handed her the baseball and she smiled so big. She gave me a hug and we both sat down. Later, the game was tied, eight-eight with 1 inning left. “Mom?” Ally asked.

“Yes, Ally?” my mom turned to her.

“I don’t feel good,” she said.

I said, “Yeah mom, she looks really pale.” I felt her head, “Ooh, her head is warm.”

“Great. Ally honey, can you wait until the end of the game?” My mom started to worry.

“Yes, I think so.” Ally said. Every few minutes I looked over at Ally just to make sure she was okay. The game ended, and we rushed out of there. On the way home, I spent most of my time making sure Ally was doing alright. About ten minutes into the car right, Ally fell asleep. She was so sick as a baby because of her heart defects that whenever she gets sick I always worry. When we pulled in the garage, I tapped on Ally’s shoulder.

“Ally wake up.” I whispered. She didn’t wake up. I tried again, “Ally wake up.” Still no answer. I carried her into the house, and into her room. As soon as I layed her on the bed, she woke up.

“Lilly? I don’t feel good, can I have some water?” she asked, very tired. I felt her head again and it was getting warmer and warmer.

“Of course.” I said kindly and quietly.

“Thanks,” she spoke softly and delicate. I went downstairs and got her water. I told mom to come check on her, and she followed me up the stairs.

“Ally honey, are you alright?” my mom asked.

Ally shook her head and said, “No, I don’t feel good.”

“I know sweetie, drink some water. What hurts?” My mom was curious. “Everything,” she said.

“Lilly?” Mom asked.

“Yes?”

“Can you go get some of my oils, they are in the bathroom,” she asked.

“Sure.” I went to go get it and heard mom waking Ally up again. I brought it to her and she rubbed it on Ally’s head and stomach.

CHAPTER 4: The Night She Got Sick

“Mommy!” Ally cried. “Mommy!” I woke up, ran into mom’s room and we both sprinted up the stairs.

“What is it sweetie?” There was fear in my mother’s eyes, and urgency.

Ally kept repeating, “I can’t, I-I-I can’t.” My mom scooped her up and we all got in the car and rushed to the hospital. When we got to the hospital, my mom was screaming for someone to help her. Four doctors came running out with one of those bed things. She told me to call our neighbor, Joanne to bring us clothes. My mom ran after the doctors, but I stayed out to call Joanne.

“Hello, Joanne?”

“Hi Lilly! Is everything alright?” she asked.

“Actually no, Ally is really sick and we are at the hospital right now. We were wondering if you could bring Mom and I some clothes?”

“Of course!” she said. “I’ll be right over.” When she got there, mom and I changed. They talked to each other for a long time, and hugged a lot.

“Thanks for coming Joanne,” my mom said.

“No problem, I will be praying for all of you.” Just as she left, a doctor came out of Ally’s room.

“Hello, I am Doctor Kandermyer. I have some bad news for you.” My mom’s face was full of fear. “Ally’s heart is not functioning right.”

My mom started crying, “No, no this can’t be happening. She’s been doing so good for years.” I looked through the window and saw Ally being hooked up with tubes.

“Can we go in?” I asked.

“Of course,” Doctor Kandermyer said. I ran in and gave Ally a big hug.

“Ally, I’m so sorry.” I cried right on her chest.

“Lilly honey, come on. Let’s let her rest.” Mom pointed outside.

“No! I’m not leaving her,” I yelled and sat down on a chair.

“Fine, it’s okay.” Mom said. “Ugh, I need a coffee. Lilly, do you want anything?” She looked at me.

“A banana?” I asked. She nodded and left. Ally was sleeping, so I just spoke softly to her. “Ally, it’s okay, you’re going to get better.” I was bawling when I said that. My mom came in with food, and sat down next to me. “Mom?” She looked at me. “If Ally isn’t better by Monday, I’m not going to school.”

“Lilly-” I cut her off,

“No! I’m not leaving Ally!” She nodded, and quietly sobbed into her hands. The next morning, I woke up with eleven missed calls! Five from Wendy, three for Lucy, and three from Joanne. I turned off my phone and went back to sleep.

CHAPTER 5: The Last Hospital Day

I woke up to loud yelling, “Lilly get up!” my mom screamed. I did, and saw at least four doctors in here.

“What’s going on?” I asked confused. The room went silent, the only noise was the sound of Ally’s monitor go dead.

“NO!” my mom screamed. She got down on her knees and cried in her hands. I looked around at everyone in slow-motion. I walked slowly over to Ally’s bed. I opened her hand, and put the last thing that ever made her smile in it. The doctors left, and I went home to figure out Ally’s funeral details.

CHAPTER 6: The Last Showing

We got all dressed up to go see Ally’s body before she got cremated. “Lilly, it’s time to go!” my mom yelled from downstairs.

“Coming!” I yelled. When we got there, I started to cry, then bawl. Wendy walked in with a caring look. We both hugged, and she apologized. When they brought her body out, I couldn’t take it. I ran up, hugged and kissed her. It was almost time for the brunch, and the guys got ready to take her body away. Before they left, I noticed what she had in her hand. I said, “Ally Grace Martens, go catch your own fly ball.” I gave her one last hug as they took her away with the baseball she was still holding on to.

THE END

The Drive to End World Hunger

By Noah Brandt

Food is like the gas for a car. It’s what gives us our energy and it’s what we need to run and live. For many children, especially in the Sub-Saharan Africa and Southern Asia, they don’t get all the fuel they need. They are running empty on food.

Hunger is a big problem in many parts of the world. In fact, We.org states that farmers actually produce enough food for the whole entire world, but one-third of that food is wasted. Even kids who go to school; 66 million of them go to school and leave hungry. In fact, if children starve outside of school, they do approximately 60% worse in school.

For a newborn, the first 1,000 days of life are REALLY important. They need proper food and enough food to start to grow their minds. They won’t be able to live with 1 meal a day until they are 4. That is why we need to make an impact to stop this hunger.

Throughout all of the starving kids, 98% of them are from developing countries. That is why local organizations such as Meals From The Heartland and Hope Ministries are making an impact to stop world hunger. With their help and other organizations around the world’s help, we have been able to stop one-fourth of the hunger worldwide. But that is only one-fourth.

So how about YOU try to make an impact? It doesn’t have to be for hunger, it can be for anything. Donate a bit to charity. Help make meals for Meals From The Heartland. Make a CHANGE in the world.

The tree

By Ebb

Tommy Shrew went to read,

He sat next to a tree

The strange thing was, there was only one

In this vast open plain

Just hills of green and this one plain tree

Wait, look there's two

But where is Tommy Shrew?

This tree is quite manish

It makes people vanish

So where is Tommy Shrew?

The Mind

By Ebb

This is the place I roam

I might just call it home

No wind blows

Trees don’t grow

In the place no one goes,

Alone am I

Why must I run tonight

From the creatures that bite

Today I must fight

For my own right to live,

Things growl and groan

They also moan

But this place I call home,

The monsters they bite, rip, tear

They bare my flesh,

No one cares

Fear behind

Hear my cries

Please save me from my...

Mind.

From Birth to Death

By Noah Brandt

Here I am

Finally in the light

Calm and relaxed

In Delight

In these human’s arms

I feel home

I feel comfy

Like inside foam

Here I am

Roaming freely

I get picked up

I’m feeling squealy

She puts me down

I start to cry

She leaves the room

I wonder why

Here I am

Now I can walk

I’ve been taken to this place

With letters and chalk

WIth other kids

I heard it’s called preschool

There’s a teacher and a playground

This place is so cool

Here I am

Now I can read

I’m making friends

I feel so free

I’m learning math and

Social Studies and Science

My parents let me hang out

With my friends Ethan and Tobias

Here I am

In middle school

I feel more free

This place even has a pool

I get to hang out

With my friends during classes

But sometimes I get made fun of

Cause I wear glasses

Here I am

In this HUGE place

I’m in track

I like to swim and race

The only thing I don’t like in highschool

Is the drama

It can ruin people

Save it for your mama

Here I am

I am in college

I’m taking lawyer classes

I’ll do good because I have the knowledge

Now I have a girlfriend

She is the best thing I’ve got

I can’t see my parents often

They miss me a lot

Here I am

I just got married

I work as a lawyer

I don’t need to be carried

Life is so great right now

I have a lot of money

I even bought a business

Centered around my favorite food, honey

Here I am

Now I have kids

They are currently

8 and 6

Life has gone well for me

I’m a rich guy

There are so many adventures

Places we’ve gone by

Here I am

My kids are going off to college

It’s almost time to retire

From all my lawyer knowledge

I have donated

To the poor

We’ve gone many places

There isn’t much more

Here I am

I have retired

Now I feel free

But lazy and tired

I like to visit my kids

Who are 40 and 38

Who have followed my footsteps

They think being a lawyer is great

Here I am

Sad that my wife has died

Living in a retirement home

I’m lonely and I cry.

My kids comfort me

Through all of the tough times

Suddenly everything turns black

I think I just died.

Lies

By Ebb

Lies

They go right by you,

But never past me

Lies

They are the monsters in my head

They are the creatures under my bed,

They may haunt me

Even taunt me.

Lies

Don’t be misled

By this poem you’ve read

They may haunt you

Even taunt you.

Lies

And ask yourself this question:

Will those lies

That you have said

Will they impact you

In the end?

Lies

They go right by you,

But never past me

Empty stars

By: Zelle Walters

I’ve been scarred, I’ve been hurt.

Out from the ashes a dark sense of humor was born.

My mind is cruel.

My words are worse.

In a land full of fairies, I happen to be the demon.

I am the one, who will balance it out.

Nobody wants to admit.

That I am here too.

Nobody wants to see me in the room as them.

But in the end they are grateful, for behind those enchanted smiles.

Are the demons we all have to hide.

I just let them out more often than others.

No fairy wants to know,

that without me those children who dreamed of the fairies.

Would be terrified of the thought,

for without the darkness

The stars might as well be black holes.

Thoughts In A Day

By: Cierra Peterson & Kaylee Hesterberg

Today is a day.

It is not a terrible day.

Days like this are fine.

It’s raining outside.

It's very fresh.

Fresh is the best.

The best is the best.

Bigger is not always better.

Bigger is more.

More is not less.

Less is few.

Few means 3.

3 is a number.

Numbers can get big.

Elephants are big.

Elephants are my favorite animal.

Animals are different.

Different is good.

Today is good.

Today is a day.

Light vs. Dark Writing

By Hayden B.

Pets Light

We love our pets. They cuddle with us, they play with us, they make us happy. They give us a reason to come home at night. They will always love us even when we get mad at them. They are someone we can always talk to even if they don’t talk back. They are always our friends. They comfort us when we are sad, but we are rarely sad because of them. No matter if you have a cat, dog, fish, or even a snake. We will always love our pets and they will love us back.

Pets Dark

Sometimes our pets can annoy us. Even though we love our pets we can't always take care of them. We sometimes can't even afford a pet. We still beg our parents for one. Sometimes our pets get sick. Collapsing trakia, failing kidney, paralyzed legs or even cancer. Even though we love our pets we have to let them go and hope that wherever they end up they will always remember you if you remember and love them too.

Book Reviews

No summit out of sight

Kyra stairs

Have you ever read a really good book that u never want to put down? I am reading one of those books right now.

The book I am reading is called No Summit Out Of Sight. It is about a boy named Jordan who saw a drawing on the wall of his school of the seven summits. He really wanted to climb all eight summits. Oh by the way did I mention that this book is a biography.

One of the reasons I really like this book is because it uses different vocabulary (instead of sad, happy, angry, etc) to make it hook your attention

Another reason is it a biography and that is one of my favorite genres. I just like the way it talks about someone's real life and they always make me think about my life and just life in general.

Lastly the reason I like this book is because it make me think that good things always come out of hard work. This is because Jordan's mom, dad, and stepmom. Didn't think he could do but that didn't make him give up it made him try even harder. He trained for months and months. Finally he got to climb his first summit of eight. His tour guide saw him a said he could never do it to get to camp one it usually took 6-7 hours and you would get way too tired before we even get there. But Jordan climbed it in 5 hours and proved that he could do it, just like any other person.

This is why I really love this book it hooks my attention, it is my favorite genre, it makes me think about me life and life in general, and makes me believe that good things come out of hard work. This is a great book. I think that you should give it a try, even if you don't really enjoy biographies. Just like they say you can't judge a book by its cover. That goes for genres too.

The Boy in the Striped Pajamas

I think you should read the book called The Boy In The Striped Pajamas . II think you should read it because if you like sad books this is just the right book for you. Here is a summary, It is about a boy who loves to explore. He moves into a new house. When he moves he has no friends and so he is really sad but then he found a friend but then he made a mistake and something bad happens. If you want to know what happens to him then you will have to read the book, i hope you do read it goodbye.

- William Holt

My favorite Author

Think about the many “gods” of the past. In all of Rick Riordans books he shows the monsters versus the gods and demigods. I believe that Rick Riordan is an amazing author all of his books have a perfect balance of both magic,gods and fighting/exploring. Have you ever read the first book of a series and you are so excited to read the next but it is horrible compared to the first book this is very common but with Rick Riordan this never happens his books stay good and they always keep you in suspense but don't worry if you are like me you don't know every god and goddesses in the world in all of rick riordans books he has a little dictionary in the back of the book explaining all the gods. And in all of rick riordans books he got in a+. That’s why Rick Riordan is great.

I think the book “What If?” is a very interesting book.

First, In the book it has A LOT of math that is challenging, so it teaches a little math. Second,you can go to it’s email and ask weird questions that you may want the answer to.It says how to do it in the book. Lastly,It has a lot of unknown words you can use during class. This is why I think the book “What If?” is a very interesting book.

-Joseph

Response to Mr. Peabody’s Apples

By Elissa

Mr. Peabody’s Apples by Madonna is a realistic fiction story about a boy who spreads a rumor. At first, Tommy Tittlebottom saw Mr. Peabody pick up a apple and not pay for it. Then, Tommy told his friends who told everyone else. Next, Billy Little told Mr. Peabody that everyone thinks he’s a thief. Soon, Mr. Peabody talks to Tommy and tells him to grab a pillow and meet him in one hour. After that, he cuts the pillow and lets the feathers fly out. Finally, Mr. Peabody tells Tommy that he can never fix what he has done, and tells him he has to pick up all the feathers. The author is saying that people should not jump to conclusions.

At first, Tommy judged Mr. Peabody. Initially, Tommy said to himself “That’s strange, Mr. Peabody didn’t pay anyone for the apple,”. This shows us that he came to the conclusion that Mr. Peabody was stealing. But in the end we know that Mr. Peabody had already paid for the apples. Based on Tommy rushing to tell his friends that Mr. Peabody stole, we know he judged Mr. Peabody’s actions. The author lets us know that he is judging Mr. Peabody because he didn’t think about what happened and just rushed off on his skateboard without thinking.

The author believes you should ask before you assume. Tommy said “I should not have said what I said,” this shows us that he understands what he’s done. Based on, the author saying that he’s starting to understand that each feather represents a person and that he can never pick up ever feather. We know that he’s understanding he can never fix the damage. The author lets us know that he has learned not to when he looks down at his shoes and shows that he’s embarrassed. All these examples show us don’t be so quick to judge and remember the power of words

Stones on a Grave book review

Rating:

Summary: Sarah an orphan has never been out of the little town of Hope but when the orphanage burnt down the older girls were given the little bit of information about their parents, and were sent off to live on there own. Now on her own Sarah is trying to find out about her parents and ask the question of if they lived through the Holocaust. But what she finds along the way is the world may not be ready to accept the curious Jewish girl out to find her place in this crazy world.

“A suspenseful book with utter tragedy and surprises. With a hard lesson to accept and a few happy moments (with a little love, well maybe)”

-Lily Rand

Google books

Russian Roulette

By Anthony Horowitz

Review by Sarang Kothari

This book is part of the Alex Rider series, which is about a child that is forced to work for the MI6, which is the British CIA. This book, however, is about a contract killer named Yassen, who is present from the beginning of the first book, and the book is about his life growing up and how he became what he is now. This book is packed with adventure and is a great read. As Yassen grows up, he is abused and forced to live in slavery. Finally, he escapes but in very unfortunate circumstances. He must become a killer. I would rate this book 9/10 stars. The only thing that I don't like is that it is from the middle of the series after Alex’s first mission

Student Videos

Maybe next edition :)

Teacher and Student Interviews

Nolan Garza

My great friend is Nolan Garza. We are very close friends. He is very funny and very nice. The thing that we have talked about is IN, a fictional character named Island Bob, so we made the IB comics. We were really good friends before he was in this school. Before he was in this school we were in the same church class.

By: Dylan Dolinar

Mrs Johnson:

By: Miranda Wilson

- What’s your favorite book?

--The Book Thief and Unbroken

- What do you like to write about?

--She likes to write informational and writing anything in her Smash Journal

- How long have you taught language arts?

--This is her third year teaching language arts at SMS

- What other things have you taught?

--She taught 3rd grade at Holy Family School for one year and 5th grade at Waukee Elementary for fourteen years

- Why did you want to become a teacher?

--A lot of people in Mrs Johnson’s family are teachers. Her mom taught 1st grade for 36 years

- Where are you from?

--She was born in Illinois but grew up in Cedar Rapids, Iowa

- What’s your favorite color?

--Bright pink, grey, and black

- Do you have any pets?

--No, but growing up she won a gerbil and a rabbit. The rabbit was her 5th grade teacher’s class pet. She also had a few guinea pigs. One guinea pig was named Tootsie, and he lived for 8 years.

Interviewing 6th grade math teachers

By Anna Barry, Megan Barry, and Lauren Tetzlaff

GOLD

SILVER

PURPLE

Questions

Ms.Ver Huel

Mr.Withers

Ms.Stuber

What’s your favorite 6th grade memory?

When she was in 6th grade she made toothpick bridges in math.

When he was in 6th grade he made straw bridges and you had a budget and had to make blueprints and buy all of your materials and it was very fun.

When she was teaching, her 6th graders planned her wedding with Tim Tebow. (Unfortunately that never actually happened)

What do you like about math?

It’s very logical.

Math is logical and very straight forward. In social studies you can grade a paper 8 ways but in math if you get it wrong you get it wrong.

Helping students who don’t like math becoming more engaged

What subject are you worst at?

Writing.

Language arts, it’s not that I was bad at it I just didn’t enjoy it.

Language Arts

What do you like about your students?

Everyday is different and exciting.

All the crazy personalities and stories I get to hear every day.

All the good personalities

What is your dream job?

Teaching math or laying by the beach and reading.

To be a professional baseball coach.

To be a Physical Therapist who works in a children’s hospital

Technology

The Iphone 7

The iphone 7 is over 700 dollars but I think it is worth it. The speakers are two times louder than the iphone 6. It has no headphone jack but an amazing battery life. It lasts one and a half times longer than the iphone 6. That is 8 to 10 hours of battery. There are also air pods that are bluetooth headphones. They come in lots of colors including jet black, matte black, silver, gold and pink. The camera is amazing. It can zoom up to 10 times digital zoom for photos. I went iphone 7 and I will never go back.

- Ethan

New Arcade at the Country's Largest Mall Blows Minds

What do think of when somebody says arcade? Probably something like claw machines, skeeball, and PAC- MAN, right? Not at Smaaash!!!!!!! arcade. Yes they have all the regular arcade games, but that's the least exciting there. First off they have a state of the art go kart track. There is also live action sports games. You can play hockey, soccer, football, and NASCAR. You play in front of a giant screen, where a sensor watches your movement and adjusts according to what you do. But to be honest, my favorite thing here is the VR games. And the genius’s behind this arcade add a something new and fun to the VR. I’m going to explain my favorite, Finger Coaster. You start out out by designing your own rollercoaster.Then you get into seats and put on the VR headset. You find yourself looking up at the roller coaster you created. You ride the coaster while the seats you sit in move. You get off amazed. That is just one of the many VR games you can play. You have to visit to get the real experience. It is on my the third floor of the Mall Of America. I think you will agree with me that this is the best arcade in the world.

- Alex W.

GAMING

By: Jarron & Ben

Star Wars Battlefront 2

In the upcoming game Star Wars Battlefront 2, the gamemakers added in the new solo campaign. This is where you can play as a special task stormtrooper who wants revenge on the rebellion for destroying the last Death Star. It will also will add in more heroes in multiplayer. It combines all of the eras including the Clone Wars and The Force Awakens. It will also be similar to the old Star Wars Battlefronts making it easier to get heroes in game modes. The game will be released November 11, 2017. The season pass will include ships and costumes from the Last Jedi movie.

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe will come out on April 28, 2017. They have added cool new things to the game. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is only on the Nintendo Switch right now. If you want to keep playing on the drive, the controller is portable. They added more game modes like Bob-omb Blast. They added more courses like Urchin Underpass and Battle Stadium. They also added new characters like Inkling Girl & Inkling Boy from Splatoon. They have added Three new vehicles, two are even inspired by Splatoon.

Photo Credits:

https://www.google.com/search?safe=strict&sa=G&hl=en&q=mario+kart+8+deluxe+cover&tbm=isch&tbs=simg:CAQSkwEJeNEbG6yfScQahwELEKjU2AQaAAwLELCMpwgaYgpgCAMSKL4ewB79H4MXvx7GHsce_1B-8HqYXoSnwIZk1uSmaNZQs-CGDLIUpoykaMJAkL1ujmPOZ7b59J4U4EUT8h-nI9_13uoJsv7jMibOwowJhQlrTS1-dxNhNh_1oYvQCAEDAsQjq7-CBoKCggIARIEUWGdhQw&ved=0ahUKEwj6xLLFpb3TAhXJx4MKHT0DCmsQwg4IICgA&biw=1366&bih=580#imgrc=0xxR5VsrFWXNtM:

http://www.denofgeek.com/us/games/star-wars/255307/star-wars-battlefront-2-trailer-release-date-everything-else-we-know

MOBS AND ENEMIES of Minecraft

Created by Mike Ruby

Hello. Today I will be showcasing MOJANG’S Minecraft game, BUT I will be showcasing the top 5 mobs. The EVIL WITHIN MINECRAFT!!!!!!!!! So let’s showcase…

#1 CREEPER

Aww! Such a CUTE creature, but it’s EVIL!!!!! So keep calm and hug a Creeper!

#2 SKELETON

KINDA like a normal skeleton… But more EVIL… LOL. So a skeleton has a bow and wants to kill whoever he sees roaming around his parts. So want to hear the best way to kill one? FIGURE IT OUT!!!!!! Just kidding! Use a bow from a longer distance. That’s how you KILL!!!

#3 ZOMBIE

You should know this slow killing machine! It can spawn with swords, armor, and with NOTHING!

#4 WOLF

It’s quite the peaceful creature...until you smack it! This killer doesn’t mess around when harmed!

Now it’s time for the fastest mob… and an absolute killer like a creeper…

#5 ENDERMAN

An absolute maniac that teleports! Can’t get any worse! It kills if looked in the eyes, or smacked…

So that was the top 5, killer machines in minecraft! So, see you soon!

Game creators are Mojang

Minecraft

By: Jacob Fort

Moyang

Mojang 1024 × 436 Search by image

Shouldn't you be on Minecraft.net right now?

Minecraft can be a peaceful game but when the night falls the mobs come out and they want to kill you. Michael is showing you the bad and evil mobs.

But I will be showing you the positive parts of Minecraft, like during the daytime. So sit back, relax. Get something to eat and drink and get comfortable.

JurassiCraft 2 Mod 1.11.2/1.10.2 for Minecraft - Mc-Mod.Net

Mc-Mod.Net 750 × 422 Search by image

JurassiCraft 2 Mod for Minecraft 6

It’s beautiful in the daytime. That's when mobs don't hurt, and you can work on a building or go mining. You can find food or you can make a Hungergames map. Within minecraft you can make unlimited things. You can make a floating house! What I’m trying to say is that you can dream anything that you want to do and make any thing that you want to make. Go buy Minecraft now!

This is not sponsored by Mojang!!

;-(

Kindle Fire Review

Cheerfully, you head to the apple.com to see if you can buy an iPad mini. Clicking onto the iPad mini tab, you see that it starts at a whopping $399. Your heart sinks. There is no way you can buy that! You consider buying it used, but the only thing you can afford is the cracked one that is locked out. Closing your computer, out of the corner of your eye you see an ad. “Kindle Fire Starting at $49.99.” Excitingly, you click on the ad.

The Kindle Fire is the best student tablet on the market. The price is amazing and it has all you need to have on a tablet.

Based on 8” HD Version (out of 5 rating)

Price- 5 Stars

Software- 2/4 Stars*

Hardware/Design- 3.5 stars

User-Friendliness- 3 Stars

Price- This category knocked it out of the park. The smaller 7” version starts at $49.99. Amazon is constantly putting it on sale so it is $39.99 for about one week each month. The bigger, better HD 8” version normally starts at $89.99, but it is also almost constantly on sale for $69.99. During black Friday season, you can find the 7 and 8 inch tablets at $29.99 and $49.99, respectively. If it is not on sale, wait! If possible, wait until after black friday.

Software- The fire tablets have a mediocre software system. It has a screen with all the apps that scrolls down instead of sideways which some users may find annoying and confusing. The biggest downfall is the app store. It has way less applications than Google Play or Apple’s App Store and it is not very popular. You might be confused on why we have two ratings. The reason why is there is a very simple way to get the Google Play Store on your tablet (to do so, click here). I would recommend you do it immediately when you get your tablet. This by far increases the ability and quality of the tablet experience. You will be able to get all the Google apps (Docs, Drive, Classroom etc.) plus it has way more apps. Other software is the voice assistant Alexa. She can play music, tell jokes, and more. To summarize, the software is OK but it is a lot better with the Google Play Store.

Hardware- The hardware of the Kindle Fire is not very good compared to iPads or other android tablets, but that is how they make it so cheap. Unless you plan to use the camera a lot, you should be fine with the hardware of the device. The battery is really good, but it gets a little worse when you get the Google Play store as mentioned above.

Camera: VGA Front-facing camera + 2 MP rear-facing camera

Speaker: Fire 7”: Mono Speaker Fire 8” HD- Dolby Atmos, Dual stereo speakers

Colors: Black, Blue, Magenta, Tangerine

Battery: Fire 7”- Up to 7 hours Fire 8” HD- Up to 12 Hours

User Friendliness- Overall, this tablet is very user friendly. It walks you through how to use it, and gives you tips if you need help. You can also ask Alexa to do almost anything and she will do it.

What you should buy:

- Fire HD 8- If it is near black Friday, WAIT! If it is not, wait until it goes on sale for $70

- 16GB- This is plenty unless you are a very heavy tablet user.

- Color-Black: This looks good with any case, and it looks less like plastic then the others

- With special offers: It is not worth $20 to take away some ads in your lock screen.

- Recommended Cases

a. AGPtek® 2 in 1 Waterproof Wireless Bluetooth Removable Keyboard + Protective PU Stand Case Cover Only For Kindle fire HD 8 (Keyboard Case)(also make sure it is on sale because it's regular price is $99.99 but they have great deals where you can get it for less than $40.00)

b. MoKo Case for Amazon Fire HD 8 - Slim Folding Stand Cover with Auto Wake / Sleep for Fire HD 8 Tablet $15.95

The Author, Ben F, enjoys writing technology and opinion articles. In his free time you will find him coding or playing games with one of his four siblings.

Where’s The Warrior?

By Ben F.

A new technology is on the rise at south middle school. After receiving a “Where’s George?” bill from the dollar store, the founder of Where’s the Warrior? Mr. Ben Finch, had an idea to bring a similar concept to his school. Where’s the Warrior? is a warrior buck tracking service. As people log their marked warrior bucks, data is collected about: Who has had that bill, what pod they are in, and what date they had the bill. People can openly see the statistics if they have the bill. When being interviewed by SMS Warrior News, the founder said,

“I was falling to sleep one night and all of the sudden, the idea just popped in my head. Immediately, a light bulb came on in my mind with an array of possibilities. I turn on my lamp and start sketching out what the website would look like. Sometimes, ideas come at the oddest times but you have to grab them before they are gone.”

The idea soon became a reality. The very next day, in the 6th grade SWAT team (His advisory) he created the website with just a few clicks.

“Everything is run with Google,” Ben commented to the news staff during his interview. “The site is made with Google Sites, the tracking system is through Google Forms, and all of the answers are recorded on Google Sheets. Google is very user friendly and easy for kids to use.”

The Where’s the Warrior? Website is located at bit.ly/Warrior32, and is also embedded in the SWAT team website.

“We’ve come so far. What started as a few bills sloppily put together has now turned into 20+ stamped bills with a far more professional feel than before. It has been very enjoyable to see the idea grow and an abundance of people track them.”

The Author, Ben F, enjoys writing technology and opinion articles. In his free time you will find him coding or playing games with one of his four siblings.

Three Chrome Extensions You Should Get Right Now

By Ben Finch

3. Google Dictionary

How many times a week do you come across a word and think, what in the world does that mean? Well with this dictionary extension, simply double click your mouse on the word or type in the box and you will immediately see the definition.

2. Checker Plus Series

This was a really close call to the first place Chrome Extension. It is not super helpful for people who get 1000+ emails a day, but if you don’t get a lot of spam emails, this extension will help you check and create emails with a click of a button. There are two other extensions in this series called Checker Plus for Drive and Checker Plus for Calendar. These will help you easily access your Google Drive and Google calendar, respectively. I highly recommend you get all three of these extensions.

1. AdBlock

AdBlock is the #1 chrome extension on the chrome web store. It simply blocks your extremely annoying ads on the page. It will hide inappropriate and irrelevant content on pages. It will also block video ads. You should get this extension right now!

Windows Laptops of 2017

Subject to my personal opinion

Sarang Kothari

#1 photo editing laptop

Dell xps 15

This laptop made by Dell, has a crystal clear display. The base laptop, starting at $999, has an Intel 7th generation core i3 processor, which gets better as the models improve. The Laptop has 8 gigabytes, 500 gigabytes of hard drive memory, and an extra 32 gigabytes of solid state drive.

Best 2 in 1 laptop companies (a 2 in 1 laptop turns into a tablet)

Lenovo and Microsoft

Lenovo is a better computer in terms of laptops. Microsoft makes a better 2 in1, because it is detachable, although Lenovo is more affordable and has a wider variety. However, if you are willing to pay more money and neither color nor fashion matters to you, then Microsoft is a better choice.

#1 gaming laptop

Gaming laptops have a wide range and it is hard to which one. Also I am not a gamer so I have no clue.

#1 Business laptop.

Thinkpad x1 Carbon

The Thinkpad x1 Carbon has a carbon frame, and is a premium business laptop. The Thinkpad comes with a 512ssd model and also has 16 gigabytes of ram. The display is very nice, and it’s specs will support whatever needs you may have.

Lenovo Yoga 910

This laptop is a amazing looking 2 in 1 laptop. The display is a bit small, but it is great in tablet mode.

Microsoft Surface book

Very expensive but it is a great choice. This computer attaches itself to a keyboard rather than turning, which creates more of a tablet feel.

Dell Inspiron 2 in 1

This laptop is also a 2 in 1, and is great for consumer use. It looks good and is a cheaper model than many others.

Clash Royale
Graveyard
Story from an App Game

I once had a life, and I loved working while I was alive. I was a school kid, then a college student. That I can tell you, was an experience. With bullies, people, and good friends, I remember them all like a family. Those days I remember like yesterday. I hope you enjoy your days alive, because when you die, it is so different, and you feel weird. I was lucky when I died. I was lucky to get a job working for Supercell. I became a legendary card in the game. I can go anywhere in the arena with my other friends who lost their life.

-Nate W.

Clash Royale
Electro Wizard
Story from an App Game

I am one of the few who have survived an electric surge so powerful it could fry you to ashes. I can give out an electric pulse. I am the Electro Wizard. I am fast, strong, and powerful. I can zap, Inferno Dragons, Sparky, etc. I am a multi-target attacker and I work for SuperCell as a legendary card. Everyone asks how do you get your powers? To be fair all I did was grab a power line and I absorbed all the electricity. By a snap of a finger… BOOM! An electric pulse comes out. This is my background story.

-Nate W.

Clash Royale Stories
The Log
Story from an App Game

I roll and have a spiked outside. I was bullied by you guessed it. The Lumberjacks. They would chop all us logs down and use us for what they need and we don't want. Then the best thing happened SuperCell hired the logs to be a legendary card in there game so we said yes. This would mean NO MORE LUMBERJACKS!!!! We now roll and do a lot of damage to everything in our path. The best part is that we can bully the Lumberjacks just the same if not more than they bullied us. We are decorated in spikes so we hurt. I am cheap and do a lot of damage. I work for what I do because it is better than being at the lumberyard. I love it here in Clash Royale.

-Nate W

Clash Royale stories
Lumberjack
Story from an App Game

I was a normal lumberjack and had fun with what I did. I cut down trees and played with friends. Then it happened. I tasted a purple and pink liquid and I was raged. I did everything fast after trying that stuff. Then I figured I wasn’t getting paid enough and there was another job still fun and had better pay so I accepted. I turned into a legendary card after a while and when I died I dropped the stuff that made me work fast so that other cards could use it. I did a lot of damage so I was happy. Then I was someone's favorite card. After that I got more damage to troops and buildings so I am a beast.

-Nate W.

My Brand
Have Fun§

My complete sports attire is amazing with everyone. The new brand is Have Fun§. We work hard to make sports more fun and enjoyable with breathable fabric and breathable shoes. My company wants make exercising in everyone's daily routine. Have Fun is a helping organization that gives 50% of money earned to different charities. We have hats, long sleeve shirts, short sleeve shirts, pants, shorts, and shoes. We are an athletic company that wants to help who always find an excuse and/or who can’t do it themselves. We will have a nursing home to help that will be a new add-on when I am older because I am only 12 right now and not and an owner but this is my dream company.

-Nate W.

Comics and Games

No.2

GUIDE------------------zxc inn 1

Welcome to xin1 Scratch Guide Issue No.2! Now, if you saw the last issue, you would see that today’s topic is csfirst. Csfirst is a program that helps you learn how to use Scratch. One of my projects based off of csfirst is
Prehistoric Conversation
. Check my account to see more. I’ll add that in the description on my csfirst projects. That’s all for now. Issue No.3 coming soon!

And now, some cool things on Scratch!

Game of the Week: https://scratch.mit.edu/projects/1577537/

Scratcher of the Week: https://scratch.mit.edu/users/jsquish/

Easily Remixed Project of the Week: https://scratch.mit.edu/projects/96795100/

Check this out in the next issue!

Velocity Variable Secret

Scratch Website: https://scratch.mit.edu

My Account: https://scratch.mit.edu/users/zxcbinn1/

A new feature I will be adding is a new project on my account for every Scratch Guide.

My Newest Project: https://scratch.mit.edu/projects/120481950/

>(º=º)<10 BAD RIDDLES/JOKES>(º∞º)<

By: Nathan T. andAbhi K.

1.Q: What is brown and sticky?

2.Q: What room do ghosts avoid?

3.Q: What happens if your nose is 12 inches long?

4.Q: Why do black sheep eat less than white sheep?

5.Q: A boy was born in 1955 and he just had his 18th birthday today. How did that happen?

6.Q: What do you call a free treadmill?

7.Q: Where do tough chickens come from?

8.Q: Why did the giant ape climb up the side of the skyscraper?

9.Q: Mr. and Mrs. Mustard have six daughters and each daughter has one brother. How many people are in the Mustard family?

10.Q: What has many keys, but can't even open a single door?

Answers:

1. A stick.

2. The living room.

3. It’s a foot.

4. Because there’s less black sheep in the world.

5. He was born in the hospital room 1955.

6. Outside.

7. Hard Boiled Eggs.

8. The elevator broke.

9. 9.

10. A piano.

Works Cited

"Page 2 of 20 Riddles.com Best Riddles." Riddles.com. Web. 24 Apr. 2017.

"Simile Riddles." Riddles and Answers. Web. 24 Apr. 2017.

Pet Jokes
-Lily Rand
Jokes by Jokes4us

Q: What do you call a pile of cats?

A: A meowtain.

Q: What did the bunny say to the carrot?

A: It’s been nice gnawing you.

Q: How did the little Scottish dog feel when he saw a monster?

A: He was Terrified.

Q: Do you want to hear a bad kitten joke?

A: Just kitten.

Q: What do you call a frozen dog?

A: A pupsicle.

Q: What’s a hedgehog’s favorite kind of chip?

A: Prickled onion.

Q: What is a cat’s favorite color?

A: Purrple.

Q: What is a little dog’s favorite city?

A: New Yorkie.

Q: Why don’t fish like playing basketball?

A: Because they are afraid of the net.

Q: What did the guinea pig say to the pig?

A: Hey cousin!

Pictures by Pinterest, The friskey, Youtube and Amazing creatures

Fun Riddles

Made By: Tanner D., Pablo L., and Jacob P.

1) Q: I’m tall when I’m young and I’m short when I’m old. What am I?

2) Q: How can a pants pocket be empty and still have something in it?

3) Q: A dad and his son were riding their bikes and crashed. Two ambulances came and took them to different hospitals. The man’s son was in the operating room and the doctor said, “I can’t operate on you. You’re my son.” How is that possible?

4) Q: If I drink, I die. If I eat, I am fine. What am I?

5) Q: What has 4 eyes but can’t see?

6) Q: What occurs once in a minute, twice in a moment and never in one thousand years?

7) Q: If I have it, I don’t share it. If I share it, I don’t have it. What is it?

8) Q: A house has 4 walls. All of the walls are facing south, and a bear is circling the house. What color is the bear?

9) Q: Mr. Blue lives in the blue house, Mr. Pink lives in the pink house, and Mr. Brown lives in the brown house. Who lives in the white house?

10) Q: What becomes bigger when you take away from it?

11) Einstein’s Famous Riddle

The situation

1. There are 5 houses in five different colors.

2. In each house lives a person with a different nationality.

3. These five owners drink a certain type of beverage, smoke a certain brand of cigar and keep a certain pet.

4. No owners have the same pet, smoke the same brand of cigar or drink the same beverage.

The question is: Who owns the fish?

Hints

- The Brit lives in the red house

- The Swede keeps dogs as pets

- The Dane drinks tea

- The green house is on the left of the white house

- The green house's owner drinks coffee

- The person who smokes Pall Mall rears birds

- The owner of the yellow house smokes Dunhill

- The man living in the center house drinks milk

- The Norwegian lives in the first house

- The man who smokes blends lives next to the one who keeps cats

- The man who keeps horses lives next to the man who smokes Dunhill

- The owner who smokes Bluemaster drinks beer

- The German smokes Prince

- The Norwegian lives next to the blue house

- The man who smokes blend has a neighbor who drinks water

(Use A Chart/ Worksheet)

Answers

1) A: A candle

2) A: It has a hole in it!

3) A: The doctor is his mom!

4) A: A fire!

5) A: Mississippi

6)A: The letter M

7)A: A Secret

8) A: The house is on the North Pole, so the bear is white.

9) A: The President

10) A: A hole

11) A: The German

Works Cited

(os@udel.edu), Mattie Williams. "Einstein's Riddle." [os] Einstein's Five-houses Riddle. Web. 24 Apr. 2017.

"Home." Crafts Projects Science Experiments and Recipes for Moms with Young Children Funology. Web. 26 Apr. 2017.

The Library Nightmare by Bella Webb

In The Library Nightmare comic, Laura falls asleep at her desk in the library. She has a crazy dream involving books that are alive and a zombie librarian! Read The Library Nightmare for the funny nightmare that poor Laura dreams! If you like comics, read this one!

Sneezes By Bella Webb

In the comic Sneezes, a girl has horrible allergies. It is causing problems and making her miserable! Read the comic to find out what the solution to her allergies is and the funny little twist at the end!

Popcorn By Bella Webb

In Popcorn, a girl asks her little brother, Corn, to give her some popcorn. Instead, the Corn gets her something different and totally unexpected! Read Popcorn to find out what Corn got her!

Math News

Questers

Mr. Withers’s Silver Classes

By Nate W. and Cameron B.

Quest Finishers: Nate W., Owen K., Chris H., and Hayden P.

April 18-20 we started and finished a Quest in math class. This Quest contained 25 questions that got harder and harder as we went from question 1 to 25. Many people came close to finishing the Quest, and most didn’t get to 25.

Social Studies News

Maybe next edition :)

Science News

Monkeys

By Noah Brandt

Hello, I am Noah and I am going to share with you guys about monkeys.

Monkeys are mammals possessing some similarity to the human body. They have a long tail and round ears, but besides that, they have a lot of body parts we have.

Their diet consists of a lot of fruits such as the banana. Monkeys usually eat 3-7 times a day. Monkeys have a lot of predators, such as jungle cats, cougars, and leopards. However, monkeys are very good climbers and their predators don’t catch them often.

The fastest monkeys can run and climb at speeds of 34 miles per hour. Most monkeys live in Africa, South America, and Asia in the forests. Monkeys usually live to be 20-25 years old. The oldest monkeys grow to be 35-45 years old.

I hope this information helped you know more about the monkey and it’s traits.

Sunny Meadows

By Gabe

A game I’ve learned about recently is Sunny Meadows that is fun to play.

It’s one of my favorite games that I’ve played in science class. It’s about lives of animals. There are bunnies, foxes, and grass. They’re cute. It’s a challenging game. I have to solve problems. Sunny Meadows is a new, fun, and challenging game to play.

Planet X

By: Dawsyn S.

Planet X is a theoretical planet that could have a large orbit that has a guessed orbit time of 10,000 to 20,000 earth years.This planet was founded by NASA. NASA thinks that it is 10 times the size of the earth and 20 times our orbit around the sun. This planet could show a new element to us to use. This planet is a big advancement in history and science. This also shows how big of a pull the sun has on planets. Although most people think it was a rough planet that has had a soft entrance recently, it’s had no big impact on the other planets.

Nemesis

-Carson Costanzo

Nemesis is a theoretical dwarf star that orbits our sun. This star is thought to cause mass extinctions.

Many people argue that Nemesis does not exist, and that there is no evidence of its existence. But a reason that some think Nemesis does exist, is that mass extinction seems to take place around every 26 million years. How does this star cause mass extinction? They think that it gets very close to what scientist call the Oort cloud. The Oort cloud is a huge cloud of comets at the edge of the solar system. When Nemesis passes by the Oort cloud, it disrupts the orbit of some of the comets which then sends them flying into the inner solar system. Then, they hit the planets thus causing extinction.

Work cited

http://www.space.com/22538-nemesis-star.html

A binary star system image Credit: Michael Osadciw/University of Rochester

Health and Fitness

Why is maintaining a healthy weight important?

By: Abby T.

Maintaining a healthy weight can prevent diseases such as Type 2 Diabetes. Staying healthy can also help you stay flexible (if you stretch) and can reduce the risk of injury. Plus it prevents 50% of diseases maybe more.

Maintaining a healthy weight can get you better at sports (you still have to practice). Take baseball for example, a healthy body weight can help you get better at baseball. Also it may get you into new sports. For example, if you didn’t like running then maybe you would like it now.

Staying healthy can keep you happy. People have different ways of dealing with stress. Some people take hot baths and some work out. Maintaining a healthy weight can also help with stress. It may not prevent it, but in my opinion it would help. In conclusion this is why maintaining a healthy weight is important.

Arts- Fashion, Arts, Crafts, Dance

Slime Recipe

Ingredients:

- 1 teaspoon borax powder

- 1 1/2 C water, divided

- 4 oz (1/2 C) Elmer's glue, clear or white

- food coloring

Instructions

- Add borax powder to 1 cup of water and stir to dissolve. Set aside. Pour glue into a medium mixing bowl and add 1/2 C water. Add a few drops of food coloring until desired color is reached and then stir to mix glue solution until smooth.

- Pour the borax mixture into the glue mixture and watch the solids start to form. Stir for a few moments and then use your hands to gather the mass. The mixture will be very soft and wet.

- Keep kneading until it firms up and feels dry. Discard excess liquid in bowl. The more you knead and play with the slime the firmer it will become. Store in a ziplock bag or airtight container and the slime will keep indefinitely.

Slime with Contact Solution

THE ULTIMATE FLUFFY SLIME!!!

THE ULTIMATE STRETCHY SLIME

Slime with Laundry Detergent

** If you choose to make slime remember: It's not allowed at school so you can keep and play with it at home.

Hand Sewing

By Lily Froehlich

Hand sewing is a craft where you use a needle and thread to combine fabric to make something new.

Origami

by: Anish & Miguel

Origami is fun and you can make so many different crafts. Some of the coolest crafts are the transforming ninja star. The ninja star is kind of difficult, but you have to take your time, also you have to follow the steps properly because the first time I did the origami swan I messed up like 20 times and it was not made right. My first time making the transforming ninja star was kind of difficult but you only have to apply the same step over and over again so that’s what I did. I followed the direction and it turned out okay.

Sometimes origami can be fun, stressful, challenging, and hard, but as long as you take your time it will always be fun and turn out okay. When I made my first swan I got confused a lot and made a lot of wrong folds but it was not easy and when I finished it, it didn’t look as planned, but we had fun. We had a lot of fun doing origami and here are some ways you can make cool creations like the dragon, ninja star,and santa and remember, origami is for fun! Sources

Origami dragon

How to Make a Transforming Ninja Star! (8-Pointed) - YouTube

How To Make An Origami Santa Claus - YouTube

ANIME

By: Armstrong Campbell

The first Japanese anime started in the early 1900s and are still popular today, including in the United States. A big difference between anime and regular cartoons is that anime is watched by a wide range of ages,children through adults. Anime can be found on internet shows, TV shows like Dragon Ball Z, and comic books known as manga.

https://novaonline.nvcc.edu/eli/evans/HIS135/Events/Anime62/Anime62.html

My favorite Anime are Fairy Tail and Attack on Titan.

OUTFIT TRENDS 2017

Olivia F., Caeleigh L., Lennon V., & Heidy S.

It's getting that time of the year, summer! Where everyone starts to wear shorts and cute tops. So we're here to tell you the latest fashion trends.

Here you can see an Adidas shirt with basic high waisted shorts and with really cute summer sunglasses with a gold watch and a gold chained necklace! Pair it all with cute Timberland boots!

With this outfit there is an off the shoulder maroon sweater, white knee cut jeans, and cute gray boots. This look is completed with a gray leather Prada bag.

This girl is wearing a green bomber jacket, and underneath the jacket is a white flowy crop top. She is also wearing ripped blue jeans and some white sneakers. New fashion trends start with you!

Life Hacks
How To Make Speakers For A Phone:

By Parker S. and Tucker S.

SUPPLIES:

- Empty toilet paper rolls

- Thumb tacks

- Scissors

- Phone

Description: Are the speakers on your phone too quiet? Do wish you could hear music better? Well, here is the solution. Take the toilet paper roll and your phone. Find your speakers on the phone and trace the outline of the bottom of the phone on the toilet paper roll. Now you will cut out the outline and put your phone in the hole. Lastly, you take the thumb tacks and put them in the bottom to prop up the speakers so the sound will be projected out the sides.

If you are trying to fill up a giant bucket with water but it doesn’t fit in your sink take a (clean) dustpan and put it in the sink with the handle facing out towards the bucket. Tilt the dust pan so that the water runs out of the handle to the bucket.

Sources

http://www.lifehack.org/articles/lifestyle/100-life-hacks-that-make-life-easier.html

Top 10 Life Hacks

Nathan T, and Abhi K

Only for numbers above or equal to 90 but less than 100.

Works Cited

"Tips for Life." Lifehack. Web. 26 Apr. 2017.

DIYS AND LIFE HACKS

- DIY POM POM RUG

MATERIALS: Rolls of yarn, Glue, rug mat

1. Make your pom pom in your own unique way! (Preferably a large one)

2. Then make 24 more, they need to be similar sizes. You can use different colors (optional).

3. Now glue each of your pom poms to the mat, and let it dry!

4. You have finished the rug!!

FOOD DYE CUPCAKE PRANK

(We did this with my friend at a sleepover)

MATERIALS: Non-Frosted Cupcakes, Frosting, Knife, Food Coloring

1. Take your non-frosted cupcake and put it on the counter or table, and send the person down stairs, or get them out of the room.

2. Once they are gone, Take your knife and cut a hole in the top of the cupcake.

3. Take your food coloring (Of your choice) and put it in the hole. (Recommended 1-4 drops).

4. (This step is optional) Now place the piece of cupcake back in its place.

5. Frost your cupcake, cover up the area with the hole.

6. Call up your Friend and give them the cupcake, SELFIE TIME!!

7. Now let them look at their teeth.

- Ella VanHeuverswyn

SMS Art Gallery

By: Georgia L. and Hayden B.

Have you noticed that our SMS walls don't have much art on them? Well if you have, so has Ms.Ludwig and Ms.Cary. They have come up with an idea to make a mini SMS art gallery. The interest group art show is working on ideas for what to call it and how to design it. This idea is still in workshop, but Ms.Ludwig, Ms.Cary and the Art Show interest group are working very hard to make it a reality. The art gallery will be a place for artist to go and work on their masterpieces. It will make its debut next year. If you have any ideas or questions, contact Ms.Ludwig or Ms.Cary.

Entertainment News

By Munyeneh

In the entertainment world a new African American comedian is named Micheal Blackson. He is new and he is very famous. He says you should always be who you are around your friends. He is on a lot of shows and movies such as Wild n’ Out and Meet the Blacks. He is very funny. So that is something I figured out in the entertainment world. He was also voted for an award status. That is what I learned about Michael Blackson.

Ancient Entertainment

BY: Phoenix

Way back then in rome, they put actors and choirs together to make entertainment. But there is A lot more things that go down. Like music moves and more. Some will contain more work than others, but in the end it is still entertainment. Like a play may take longer than a song. And that is all I have today.

Arrow TV Show Review

By: Matthew Pettengill

Cited from: http://screenrant.com/arrow-season-3-plot-characters-villain/

You like action? Arrow has it. You like drama? Arrow has it. Do you like the Green Arrow comics? Arrow is based off of it.

Star Review: 7/10 Stars

Summary: After Oliver Queen rides a boat with his dad and crew heading to the North China Sea, the boat sinks and Oliver is the only survivor of the boat. He arrives on an island called Lian Yu. The whole world thinks he’s dead, but Oliver has been in Hong Kong, China, Russia, and on Lian Yu. After five years of the boat crash Oliver comes back and becomes the vigilante named “The Arrow” and he fights crime of a list his dad gives him. Oliver realizes how much has changed in his hometown Starling City. Arrow is on the CW at Seven o’clock PM on Wednesdays.

My Thoughts: I think Arrow is a awesome show! Arrow has had five seasons so it has gotten worse over time, but the first two season were the best that the show has made. I would recommend watching the first two season, and if you want more watch season three. I honestly think you have to watch season four but it’s not going to be a great season. And if you can somehow watch season four (One of the best characters died, that’s why season four sucked) and want more watch season five. Season five is a great season to watch, it’s not as good as seasons one and two but it is good. For me, I will be watching Season six when it comes out but if you are not ready to watch five seasons of a show, watch one and two. You can find Arrow, the first four seasons are on Netflix.

Legally Blonde

Emilie McBurney & Tatum Lowell

This was a very good production done by Waukee High School. These are just some of the few people we interviewed that were in the Musical. All these parts were very fun to watch. I wish I could see again. With all the excitement and the singing and dancing. All these talented students have brought a production that no one will ever forget.

Alayna Verduyn (Brooke Wyndham/ Sorority)

How is it working on Legally Blonde with some new cast mates?

“Working with new cast members is kind of difficult at first since I already had such a strong bond with people I’ve worked with before! I love getting to bond with new people and build new relationships. So that is something I love about doing theatre.”

Picture: Alayna’s Twitter

Marisa Spahn (Elle Woods)

What were some challenges about building your character?

“I would have to say it was very easy, Elle faces a lot of problems women in society face today. It’s actually extremely empowering to play Elle because, I get to tell the story of a woman finding herself and her voice in the world.”

Picture: Des Moines Register

Emma Garrett (Enid Hoopes)

This Character was by far the funniest, and our favorite.

What was special about this character of yours from the other characters you have played?

“ This character was different from my last couple because they were the “BAD GUYS” throughout the entire show. They never changed for the better. Enid Hoopes grows morally and learns to love and respect all parts of Elle Woods!!!”

Picture: Emma Garrett’s Twitter

Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children

By: Jana and Caitlin

http://www.upi.com/New-posters-show-off-Miss-Peregrines-Home-for-Peculiar-Children-cast/7191466187243/

Star review: 4 stars

Summary:

Jake is a 15 year old boy who lives with his grandfather. His grandfather talks about monsters. Jake believes his grandfather’s stories. One day, Jake comes home from work, and finds his grandfather lying on the ground outside. The “monsters” eat eyeballs of peculiar people. Now, Jake and his father go to a small town, and Jake finds peculiar children. With help of his peculiar friends, Jake goes on a mission to save them from the eyeball eating monsters.

Movie Review

Fantastic Beasts is a huge new big-budget movie, but is it any good?

By Adam K.

Before we talk about my opinion of this movie, lets briefly talk about what the movie generally is. Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them is a five movie Harry Potter spin off series with a new movie coming out every couple of years. The movies are written by J.K. Rowling, who wrote the original Harry Potter book series. Only one is currently out, and that is Fantastic beasts and Where to Find Them. Fantastic beasts takes place in the winter of 1926, New York, in the “Harry Potter Universe”. The movie has the same rules of wizards and muggles as in Harry Potter, though it takes place much earlier in time. The movie focuses on Newt Scamander, who is a Magizoologist who studies animals. He brings in a briefcase full of magical beasts, and through a mix up and an unfortunate line of events, some of them escape. The movie is about finding the beasts, stopping destruction in New York,

Here’s what the internet (Warner Bros) has to say: The year is 1926, and Newt Scamander (Eddie Redmayne) has just completed a global excursion to find and document an extraordinary array of magical creatures. Arriving in New York for a brief stopover, he might have come and gone without incident, were it not for a No-Maj (American for Muggle) named Jacob, a misplaced magical case, and the escape of some of Newt's fantastic beasts, which could spell trouble for both the wizarding and No-Maj worlds.

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them is meant for people who who are familiar with Harry Potter, but not required. There are Harry potter references throughout the movie, enough for Harry Potter fans to notice, but not enough to confuse and bore non Harry Potter fans. People will recognise things like magic spells and fictional terms (like “Muggles”). The DVD comes with deleted scenes and other special features that are very entertaining if you are hungry for more. The movie had a budget of $180 million which is much greater than a normal movie which is on average less than $100 million. Because of this, the acting is great with multiple actors who have won Oscar Awards, and there are tons of cool special effects and CGIs that look real. All of Newt’s Beasts have their own personality and are realistic even though they are all CGI. The plot is very excellent with amazing character development. The plot of the movie all takes place over the course of a few days, and you can feel that the relationship of the characters could change any moment.

The movie has received many awards including Academy Awards (Oscars). Here is what you get when you google Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them awards and nominations.

The Internet Movie Database list of awards is here.

The format I bought was $23, and it included a DVD, Blu-Ray, and a digital copy that can be watched with an app on a phone or tablet, or on a computer. I am very satisfied with what I got. I also bought the screenplay (script) of the movie. The script is entertaining to read and I noticed some things that I didn't catch before. Also, it is helpful if you want to spell Seraphina Pic Query.

Overall, I think that this movie is very good for everyone to see. I hope you enjoy this movie!

Advice Column

I know that for me sometimes it is hard to get your homework done so here are some ways to help with that. First if you know you are going to be gone ask the teacher for any assignments that you might have to do during that time you are going to be gone, so you get them done before you go on your trip so you don’t have to worry about it on your trip! Next if you forget your homework assignment you can ask a friend who is in your class. So when you ask a friend you don’t forget what the assignment is. Finally you can make a schedule to make sure that you don't forget to do your homework. And if you make a reminder to yourself, you will not forget to do your homework. Those are only a couple of ways to get homework done on time.

~Max Deets

Is bullying a problem for middle schoolers? I believe that in sixth grade bullying is a big problem. First of all, in sixth grade we’re just starting middle school and everyone is trying to find out where they belong and who to hang out. In elementary school everyone had one class and bullying was minimal but now we all so many classes with other preteens and there might be some people who don’t exactly like you. Secondly,did you know half of all children are bullied at some time during their school years! More than 10% are bullied regularly and they aren’t all in middle school. In fact

approximately 160,000 teens skip school every day because of bullying, it’s a terrible thing to think about how someone has been bullied so much they can’t show their faces. Lastly, if you’re texting you can’t read emotions through a screen. Many people text something and it’s interpreted the wrong way and they might keep interpreting it the wrong way and become hurt and confused. I believe that bullying is a big problem in middle school

Signed, Anne Onymous

If you need advice you have come to the right place. Today in the advice column we are going to talk about judging people. Have you ever judged someone or have you ever been judged? Well I know it doesn't feel the best. Here are some tips to help not judge people and some tips to help if someone is judging you. First of all you should not judge people anyway it is rude and you don't know what they have been through or are going through. Also they could be your friend they could be super friendly.Finally some tips for people that are judged 1. Ignore if someone is being mean or rude just ignore them it is the best thing to do. 2. Just walk away if someone is making you do something you don't want to do walk away. 3. Tell someone tell a trusted adult or a friend maybe they could help you.Now that you know all this USE IT and if you are being judged you know how to to take care of it.The next time you are judging someone think about how you would feel because it will happen to you at some point.

-Makenzie Doocy

Saige thompson

Advice

Hello, some great advice I have for you is STOP bullying. Bullying is a bad habit people have. We are all great and loving kids and don’t deserve to be bullied. We need to respect the differences of others. Our school is very diverse and we need to appreciate it. Just think about this quote whenever something bad happens or something doesn't work. “Mistakes are proof that you are trying.” - Unknown

Funny Shares

Q: What does a nosey pepper do? A: Gets jalapeno business!

Q: What do you call a fake noodle? A: An Impasta!

Q: Why did the picture go to jail? A: Because it was framed.

Q: "How do you shoot a killer bee?" A: "With a bee bee gun.

Q: What do you call a sleeping bull? A: A bulldozer!

Inspirational Quotes

Be yourself, everyone else it taken. :)

You are wonderful, just as you are, be yourself.

BAD JOKES BUT VERY FUNNY

Nate, Christian, Aiden

We enjoyed looking at this bad joke. It had a certain vibe to it, and we thought this one was hilarious because we know who this joke is about. LOL.

Knock-Knock Jokes!

By Conson Mumm

Knock-Knock.

Who’s there?

SMS.

SMS who?

SMS is a school, not a person!

Knock-Knock.

Who’s there?

Noah.

Noah who?

You don’t know Noah? I know three of them!

Knock-Knock.

Who’s there?

Interrupting lion.

Interrupting lion wh-?

ROOOOOOOOAR!

Knock-Knock.

Who’s there?

I care for.

I care for who?

You should care for everyone, because it makes them feel good.

Knock-Knock

Who’s there?

FBI

FBI who?

I’m the one who ask questions here!

Other Creative Topics Shiba Inu vs Welsh Corgi

By Eleanor Peiper and Quynh Tran

Strong, sturdily build, low-set, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is one of the most agreeable small house dogs. The coat can be red, black, tan or just plain tan with or without white marks. They are a good competitor in many dog sports. Originally bred to herd sheep and cattle, they are easy to train, are great with children and other pets. They have a low tendency to bark or howl.

The Shiba Inu is the official Japanese national treasure. With its plush coat, bright eyes, and curled tail they are really cute dogs. The Shiba Inu has the resemblance of a fox with its muscular body and triangular ears. Their coats come in one of three colors: red, black or tan. The word Shiba in Japanese means “brushwood”, like the terrain these dogs used to hunt on. The word Inu means “dog”. They can’t stand being away from their family. Don’t even think about leaving them in the garage or backyard, that bold nature from their ancestors, will be changed into noises and destructiveness.

The Corgi is a better companion in sports and is quieter. But the Shiba is more apartment friendly and adaptable. The Corgi originated for the US but the shiba ia from Japan. They are both medium purebred. They both shed a lot and grooming them will reduce shedding and make their fur softer. The corgi is more friendly. The shiba is more aggressive, alert, and energetic while the corgi is known for being more friendly, loving and playful.

http://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/pembroke-welsh-corgi#/slide/8

http://dogs.petbreeds.com/l/117/Pembroke-Welsh-Corgi

http://www.vetstreet.com/dogs/shiba-inu#0_bu730zq6

Hedgehogs

By: Mari M., Sonia P., and Anwitha V.

Hedgehogs are very interesting and cute creatures. Not only do they have very intriguing and unique skills, but they make great pets!

There are many facts about hedgehogs. They are very good foragers and hunters, and their sense of smell and hearing are extremely sharp. Their eyesight, on the other hand, isn’t great because they are adapted for night time vision. Hedgehogs got their name by the pig-like sounds they make when foraging in hedges and bushes.

There are seventeen species of hedgehogs. The most common domesticated species is the African pygmy hedgehog and is most likely what you will see in Internet pictures.

If they live in cold climates they hibernate, if they live in desert-like climates they sleep through heat and drought. In temperate climates they don’t need to hibernate.

Hedgehogs eat a large variety of food. These include insects, small mice, snails, mealworms, small lizards, small frogs, eggs, and even small snakes. They are immune to some poisons. Hedgehogs are insectivores, not rodents, and have a very interesting diet.

Hedgehogs live all over the world. In the wild you can find them in Europe, Asia, Africa, and New Zealand. Hedgehogs that are domesticated can be found anywhere.

Hedgehogs have a defense mechanism different from all other animals. The quills on their backs have a complicated set of muscles that, when they are scared, will move to make the hedgehog roll into a ball of spikes.

Works Cited

"Amazing Facts about Hedgehogs OneKindPlanet Animal Education." OneKind. Web. 24 Apr. 2017.

"Hedgehog." Kids’ Games, Animals, Photos, Stories, and More. 01 Mar. 2014. Web. 24 Apr. 2017.

Malone, Ailbhe. "20 Enchanting Facts About Hedgehogs." BuzzFeed. Web. 24 Apr. 2017.

Cats vs. Dogs: The Big Question

By: Lilly Froehlich

Today, we know more about our pets than ever. What will keep them healthy, how to cure their diseases, and how to keep them happy. Even though all of these questions and more are answered, one big one remains a mystery: Are cats or dogs better?

The typical dog is a lovable pet; loyal and friendly, with an easy-to-please personality. They love almost everything, from going on a long walk to snoozing on the couch. Great with kids, our typical dog will play from morning until night, and be a friend for years. They are perfect for all ages, young and old, and come in many different sizes and colors. They are very high-maintenance, though, and can not be ignored. They need to eat lots of food, need to have a yard, get lots of attention, have lots of things, go on long walks, etc. etc. etc. For most, however, the joy of having a dog is worth it.

The typical cat is a shy but friendly animal; playful, sleepy, and really quirky. Living a relaxing life, the typical cat acts almost like a human, from their facial expressions to the fact that they “Talk” to you. They are very lovable, love to cuddle and play, can live in a small house and are pretty low maintenance; just clean their litter box, feed them, and provide a fun and safe environment, no walks or exercise required! They can be a little aggressive to kids, but most of them aren’t. They come in many shapes and sizes, from bald and pink to brown and fluffy. They can require special treatment, but lots of people think that cats are (bad pun alert) purrfect.

In conclusion, it’s a tie. Some people like cats more, some people like dogs more, some people like snakes and other animals more! It all depends on the needs of the owner. Some owners love exploring the great outdoors; maybe a dog would be better. Some people are indoors-y apartment dwellers, a cat would be awesome. What pet is right for you?

Should students be able to choose the pod they want to be in?

I think so because then students will get to be with there friends and that could improve productivity because they will want to learn when they are with their friends. It would also help decrease absentes because kids will want to come to school and see their friends and they will be excited to learn. It would not be that hard to do it this way just send out a sheet for parents and students to sign up for a pod and if parents and students don’t sign up you can just place them randomly. And finally, there maybe a decrease in bullying because there is a strength in numbers so kids will be able to be with friends that can help stick up for them. So in conclusion I think students being able to pick their pod would be beneficial to both students and teachers for the reasons listed above. -Lily Rand

Picture by prime time palm beach county

Should School Days Be Longer?

-alesandria

According to Scholastic news schools should not be longer due to high stress levels.

If you had a chance to live anywhere you could, where would it be and why?

I would live somewhere warm because I don’t like snow or the cold. But I love the beach and sunshine, so I would probably live on an island. And not in the United States because I would love to learn a new language. So after lots of thinking I would love to live on an island in a foreign country so that I could sit on a beach and soak in the sunshine.

-Lily Rand

Special features

Natural Nature Pics

By: Sarah. A

You will be amazed as you see these amazing natural nature pics! Hello and my name is Sarah and in this article you will see these amazing nature pics. They only last for a few days so I was lucky enough to take the pictures!

This picture was taken in Easter Lake Park. The date was 4/8/2017. When you get there you will find the floor covered with these flowers. They only pop out in the spring, so this is definitely a sign of spring!

The next picture that I'm going to show you is a funny picture. I also found this at Eastern Lake Park. The date was 4/8/2017. I was walking around until I saw this weird tree. The tree was really weird. Don't believe me, see for yourself.

First, let me say that this tree looks like it has a bony hand attached to it. But I think I know what happened to it. I think the roots got rolled up and somehow the ends of the roots got attached to the tree.

The best way to relax here is with a beautiful sight of two beautiful trees! I was amazed seeing two different colored blossom trees beside each other! The best part is that their is a bench right under them so then you can have a picnic between two blossom trees!

This picture was taken 4/16/2017 on a nice warm day. The kind of trees were a pink blossom tree and a white blossom tree. If you’re on the bench and you look above you will see a mixture of both pink and white flowers.

The coolest picture is this one because you can see white flowers covering the whole ground! The flowers are everywhere on the floor and on the trees but you can’t see them on the tree in the picture. But the second you walk in, it’s white flower land!

This was taken on 4/16/2017 like the last picture. I took the road for hiking that's how I got to see them. I was stunned seeing all of those on the ground. If you want to see them you have to hurry because they're not going to stay there for long!

Last, but certainly not least, is the shining sight of the beautiful river. With its glittering sight you might go blind! The best time to go see it is when the sun is going down and the sky is pink. All you can hear is the wind.

This photo was taken on 4/16/2017 in the afternoon. If you want to see this river you might want some sunglasses because it’s directly next to the sun. At the bottom there is a beach full of seashells! You should check this place out, it’s really cool.