The Knight’s News Volume 14 ~ Issue 3 Congratulations, Class of 2021! By Nia Butler
As this unique school year winds down, we wanted to honor the Class of 2021. Can you match each eighth grade graduate with their corresponding clue? Abby Alana Anthony Ava Declan Gavin Georgina Grace Guillermo Isabel Jack Jalen Jazmine Julisa Krys Leia Oscar Sarah Sariah Soraya Vincent William Zion My biggest I have two older sisters and our names all end I like to play volleyball and dream is to with the same three letters. I can also do a split in mid-air. become an I’m originally from Virginia. I'm going to My favorite video author. Sacred Heart game is Fortnite and Academy I have a younger brother. I can wiggle my ears. I’m the youngest in my class. and my favorite I can name My birthday is in June and I have two younger brothers. show is every American president in order. Miraculous I like strawberry Twizzlers and I have a heart on my eyelid. Ladybug.
My I’m My favorite movie is Legally Blonde My favorite movie is favorite short. TV show is and I’ve never left the continent. The Shining and Erased. I can make very good I have really good reflexes. animal sounds. I’m the Venom is my best Darts My favorite book series is favorite bad guy in player. My favorite subject is ELA, and I’m going to Holy Trinity in the fall. Solo Leveling the Marvel and my favorite show is J Universe. My favorite TV show is The Promised Neverland Jujutsu Kaisen. and I have a pet parrot. I’m a drummer and I have my own I was born on the same day as James Charles. electric drum set.
Behind you, all you memories. Before you, all your dreams. Around you, all who love you. Within you, all you need. xoxo
For the People By Joshua Hall
If you’ve been keeping up with current events, you know that votingIf you’ve rights been in the keeping United upStates with is recent a topic events, that has you been would in know the newsthat a voting lot. Back rights in 2019, in the Congress United States passed have a critical been bill increasingly to protectthreatened. these rights Congress called the passed For the aPeople critical Act bill. However, in 2019 the to protect Senatethese blocked rights a calledvote on the it. For As thea result, People the Act bill. However,formally known voting about as H.R.1it was was blocked reintroduced in the Senate.and approved As a result, by Congress the bill knownagain in as HR1 early was 2021. reintroduced What exactly and approved is the purpose by Congress of H.R.1 in early and 2021. why What shouldexactly the Senate is the votepurpose on it? of HR1 and why should the Senate vote on it?One of the important goals of the For the People Act is to encourage Oneall eligible of the Americans goals of the to Forvote. the It Peoplecalls for Act all statesis to encourage to allow all voters eligible to Americans register and to vote. vote The in federal law calls elections for all states on the to allow samevoters day. It to also register wants and Election vote in Dayfederal to beelections declared on athe federal same day. It holidayalso so wantsthat working Election people Day towill be have declared the day a offfederal from holidaywork to so that vote. peopleIt will also can change vote on campaign that day. Itfinance will also laws change so money finance has laws to less influencechange money in politics. influence Another in politics. key aspect The billof H.R.1also wants is that to it change will establishcampaign rules finance so that laws. all Another presidential key aspectand vice-presidential of H.R.1 is that it will candidatesestablish will have new to rules release requiring their most presidential recent tax and returns. vice-presidential candidatesThe main purpose to release of theirH.R.1 most is to recent promote tax andincomes. protect The the bill also votingwants rights to ofchange the American campaign people. finance It laws. is needed now more than it everThe because main certain purpose states of HR1are making is to promote it much harder and protect to the vote. votingThat is rights why ourof the country American needs people. the For It isThe needed People now Act more to than be passed.it ever has before because certain states are making it much harder to vote for certain people. This is a big problem because it can lead to riots about people not voting for who they want. That is why we needed the For The People Act to be passed. The Importance of Wildlife Conservation By Erric Hayes Rising Ocean Levels By Daniel Reina
Wildlife conservation happens Do you ever want to visit one of the when people make sure wild animals and their habitats are islands in the Bahamas? If you do, then you'd better protected. It’s important that plan to go by 2050. After that, it's predicted that most animals are safe in their of the islands will be consumed by water! In fact, natural environments. Currently, water levels around the world are rising at an some of the most endangered alarming rate! For example, Greenland’s glaciers had animals are polar bears, blue 34 billion tons of ice melt into the Arctic Ocean in whales, and snow leopards. 1997. However, from 2014 to 2016, a total of 247 There are many ways to protect billion tons of glacier ice melted into Arctic waters! wildlife. One way to help polar That is an extremely fast and dangerous acceleration. bears is to slow down global What is causing this melting you may warming because it melts the ask? Climate change and greenhouse gases are the polar ice caps where they live. main causes. They increase air and ocean To protect blue whales, humans must get rid of trash in new temperatures which speeds up the melting of the ways so it doesn't enter the humongous glaciers. Other cities that are predicted to waters where blue whales live. be engulfed by 2050 are Atlantic City in New Jersey To save snow leopards, we must and Miami and Key West in Florida. This will be stop all illegal hunting and catastrophic for the people living there. Some ways we poaching. To do these things, can help reduce greenhouse emissions is to reduce human attitudes about wildlife energy use. Try leaving the car at home and travel by has to change and improve. For bike when possible. Also, planting more plants helps example, the over-development of too. our earth’s ecosystems must not Rising ocean levels is a serious problem. continue so there will be enough We have to start paying attention to this problem now land for all creatures to share. because there is still time to make important changes. Wildlife and their habitats can be saved if we all do our If we ignore this problem, we may have fewer places part. To prevent the extinction to visit or live in the near future. of animals like the ones in this article, steps need to be taken now. Unfortunately, the greatest danger to wildlife is our human behavior. Exotic Lizard Invasion!
By Masato Clarke and James Scanlon
Nearly eleven thousand years ago, humans began keeping animals as pets. Today, we continue to AXOLOTLS care for pets in our homes. Unfortunately, some get By Jenna Palladino lost or manage to run away. With luck, they are found. Sadly, some are never seen again. At times, irresponsible people even release animals into the What would you think if I told you that there was an wild because they no longer want them. What animal that can regrow almost any part of its body, including happens when exotic pets, like Italian Wall Lizards, the heart and brain? Well, these amphibians exist and they are lost or discarded here on Long Island? are called axolotls. The name comes from Xolotl, the Aztec Italian Wall Lizards are a species of reptile scientifically named Podarcis Sicula. They have a god of death and lightning. According to ancient mythology, long and sleek brown body with green, white, and he turned into a small creature, or axolotl, to escape his death. black details. They originally lived on the Italian These small creatures can be found in Lake Xochimilco on the peninsula and the North Adriatic coast. Their diet edge of Mexico City. Currently, axolotls are critically consists of any item that can fit inside their mouths endangered with only around 1,200 left in the wild. including spiders, fish, insects, and even small mice. There are many stories about how the Italian Predators have contributed to the decline of axolotls. Wall Lizard may have penetrated Long Island’s Storks and herons easily swoop down and catch them right ecosystem. One of the most plausible involves a pet below the water’s surface. Their eggs are also the prey of store in Garden City. Back in 1996, the store caught large fish. Besides regeneration, axolotls have other fire and approximately eleven lizards were released. Being ectothermic, or cold blooded, they prefer hot adaptations to help them survive. To live mostly underwater, places. How did they survive the winters here you they breathe through their skin and the unique gills on the may ask? They likely dug holes deep below the sides of their head. frostline which allowed them to brumate. This Luckily, axolotls bred in captivity thrive as pets. You means they are still active, but as their bodily can purchase one from a breeder or from an exotic pet store. functions slow down, they don’t need to eat as much. Recently, a Cornell University student did a They’ll need a tank with water in the mid-60 degree range. research project that showed Italian Wall Lizards Tanks fifteen gallons or larger are recommended because their have flourished on Long Island and their population waste is very messy. In fact, weekly cleaning can be the is still growing. toughest part of taking care of them. In addition, tank All ecosystems are fragile, and the Italian Wall Lizard is an invasive species that competes bottoms should be bare since axolotls will eat rock or gravel with Long Island’s native wildlife for resources. bases. Most importantly, do not put them in tanks with other Thankfully, they haven’t done any lasting harm to animals as the axolotls will likely be eaten. At first, just feed our local environment. Next time, we might not be your pet small worms. As they grow, you can begin to feed so lucky. Therefore, everyone must be responsible them shrimp, other meats, and food pellets. and never release unwanted exotic pets. It could lead to catastrophic results for native wildlife and Axolotls are both loveable and adorable. If you want local ecosystems. There are many organizations that to learn more about these fascinating creatures, there are will provide help if you or anyone you know is unable numerous websites and books available. to care for an animal. Let the OBSESSED: A MEMOIR Sky Fall OF MY LIFE WITH OCD Reviewed by Leilani Vasquez
Reviewed by Cristina Aguilar Obsessed is a book written by Allison Britz
describing her personal experience with OCD, also known as Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. It all started when Allison had a nightmare. In the vivid dream, she was diagnosed with brain Do you like books with action, family cancer. When she woke up, Allison thought it was drama and maybe some romance? Well, then I actually a warning so she convinced herself to do have the perfect book for you! Let the Sky everything necessary to stop the cancer from Fall is a book about a sixteen year old boy becoming a reality. Over the following weeks, it whose life is changed forever after he is the was all Allison thought about. Unable to stop the only one in his family to survive a Category 5 obsessive thoughts, she began to feel isolated tornado. Believe it or not, that is just the from her friends and family. The once popular start of his adventure! Let The Sky fall is the fifteen year old’s struggles with OCD had begun. first book in a very exciting trilogy written by Young Allison used to live a comfortable author Shannon Messenger. life in an idyllic town. Just a few years later, she This story starts with Vane, the main has a hard time doing ordinary things. Drying her character, questioning how he survived the hair, using a calculator, and wearing certain tornado. After that, Audra, an air elemental clothes were all difficult now. After her mind determined that even paper, pencils and most with many powers like walking on the wind, books posed a threat to her health, her academic begins to worry because she made a mistake progress imploded. Her parents questioned during the killer tornado. She accidentally let Allison’s behavior, leading to explosive fights. Vane see her as she tried to protect him. My favorite part of the book is when Since then, she has continued to watch over Allison finally sees a licensed therapist. Not only Vane until he is able to protect himself from does it give me hope for Allison, but it allowed those who did not intend for him to survive. me to understand OCD a little more. The As time goes on, she becomes Vane’s love therapist does Exposure and Response interest. Prevention with Allison. This is when a person is Vane eventually learns he is an air exposed to something they fear, such as elemental like Audra. He can even control all breaking the rules they’ve set for themselves. four types of wind including Southerlies, This therapy prevents her rules from becoming Westerlies, Northerlies and Easterlies. As he repetitive or obsessive rituals. This treatment, starts to get more serious with his training, along with Allison’s determination and her Vane must battle those who still want to get family’s support, makes all the difference. rid of him and his kind. If you want to find out Teenage readers who want to understand what happens to Vane and Audra, you’ll just and learn more about Allison’s struggles may have to read Let the Sky Fall. gain insight into this disorder. This engaging I recommend this book to readers who love biography may be hard for younger children to action, drama, and romance. If my review read so I recommend Obsessed to middle school interested you even a little, then read Let the students who enjoy non-fiction books. Sky Fall. I promise you won't regret it!
By Jhoel Flores
All American is a drama series with a sports plot. The story centers around a star football player named Spencer James who transfers high schools in order to get a better shot at the NFL. It is based on the true story of professional athlete Spencer Paysinger. All American has many characters, but the main ones are Spencer, Dillon James, Olivia, and Jordan Baker. The series started with Coach Baker of the Beverly High Eagles trying to recruit Spencer because of his special talents on the football field. Spencer agrees to move from Compton to Beverly Hills because it’s a great opportunity to make his NFL dreams come true. After he moves in with the Baker family, Spencer’s absent father Corey suddenly appears and brings lots of drama with him. As the season winds down, Spencer and his new team become champions. The following season, Darnell Hayes is the new quarterback for Spencer’s rivals from South Crenshaw. Although they know each other, the teens don’t really like each other. That’s because Spencer’s dad Corey is also Darnell’s father from a different marriage. Darnell bets that if his team beats the Eagles, Spencer must agree help Darnell find their dad who has gone missing. During the game, Spencer takes a knee when he sees the referees ignoring rough plays against Crenshaw players. After that, the brothers have a new respect for each other and work together to find their father. Eventually, they find Corey only to discover he has a medical problem and is dying. They all choose to spend as much time together as possible, and that’s just the beginning of the second season. All American’s third season began on CW in January, but you can watch it any time on Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime and many other places. The people who should watch All American are those who love drama mixed with exciting football. In my opinion, it’s a well-crafted show with an excellent plot and great characters. I love this show and I rate it a ten out of ten touchdowns! A Rocket League Tutorial By Jeffrey Hernandez Flores
Rocket League is a fun game that can be played on every PC and console. It was released by Epic Games in 2015. Gamers enjoy it because it uses the same strategies as Minecraft, Roblox and Fall Guys. Soccer fans like it because it’s an exciting twist on their favorite sport. There are some basic rules when playing Rocket League. Players score points by using their cars to get the giant ball into the enemy's net. At the same time, opposing players have to defend their net from powerful shots. It’s not easy and you will need to practice the mechanics of the game until you master them. You can play it with your friends or compete against fans from around the world. You can even compete against artificial intelligence players known as AI. To be good at Rocket League, you can do customized practice matches against AIs. You have to choose the level of difficulty of your AI opponent and the maps you want to use. After a few hours of playing against your AI enemy, you'll get used to the mechanics. Remember, practice makes perfect so keep practicing. I've been playing Rocket League for about four years and I'm still super active on it because it never gets boring. If you like action and soccer, I recommend you give it a try.
Chatting on oblox By Amsden Orellana ROBLOX’S COPYRIGHT What is Roblox? It’s a PROBLEM platform where people ages ten By Kenneth Yam and up can create games and others can play them. It can be played on almost any device from Roblox is a platform where you can play Xbox to PCs. The founders of games and chat with friends. Users consist of Roblox are David Baszucki and a wide range of people. The co-creators and Erik Cassel. It was first created in founders are David Baszucki and Erik Cassel. 2006. Currently, Roblox is a multi-million dollar There are many types of company and is even part of the stock market. games available on Roblox. Some popular ones frequently uploaded Unfortunately, there are people on this are anime-themed, survival-based platform who want to benefit from the or simulator-based games. Players success of others by directly copying their can also customize their avatars work without providing any credit or financial with the various items and compensation. This activity may be motivated accessories available in the avatar by greed or the need to be popular. shop. Currently, the only way An example of a counterfeit game on people can communicate with Roblox is Imposter, a direct copy of the popular each other on the platform is by game Among Us. All the features of the original texting, known as the chat. have been stolen including the layout, the Luckily, a new and easier gameplay, and even the characters! Blatant way to communicate called copying like this is common on Roblox. In fact, voice-chat has been announced by people even duplicate games on their own Roblox. It will be based on platform. Take Rage Runner for example. It’s a proximity which means when players are close to each other, game about jumping over obstacles. Someone they will be able to verbally stole the game’s idea, named it something communicate. The players’ voices slightly different, and claimed it as their own will become more faint the after they shared it on Roblox. This is bad for farther they are from each other. the original creators of the game because they In my opinion, the voice-chat don’t receive any payment from this theft even feature should be added as soon as though it is their invention being played. This possible because it will be easier is why copyright laws are so important. to communicate and playing will Copying someone else's ideas without be more fun. So far, Roblox hasn’t permission is not new. Taking the written announced a specific date when words of another without giving proper credit this update will happen. is called plagiarism. A copied work of art is Hopefully, voice-chat will be called a forgery. Roblox’s moderators should available soon. There are rumors review the content of games much more that it may be released in October, but nothing official is known yet. carefully before they are released on the Until then, players will just have platform to make sure they don't contain any to communicate the old-fashioned stolen assets. Even with all the latest way by typing in the chat. technology, it’s still hard to stop a thief. Streaming Services Building A Keyboard BY Madison FROOKS & Isabella MOLINA By Casmir Hall
Streaming is a service that most people in this day and age have The first keyboard was invented access to almost anywhere. In fact, there are many to choose from in 1878 by Christopher Sholes. that let viewers watch countless programs of different varieties. Chris From the ‘90s to now, from G rated to PG and above, from Since then, keyboards have changed a lot. lighthearted to scary and dark, there is something for everyone. Yet, The traditional keyboard used today has how can you tell which is worth your money and time? Look at the 101 keys. Lots of people choose to build chart we created to review the pros and cons of some popular their own computer keyboards because it streaming services to see which one is right for you. can be cheaper and they can be customized for individual needs. There are a lot of things you need to build one Streaming Pros Cons such as a circuit board, cables, switches, Services stabilizers, a backplate, a case, and keycaps. You can even order a keyboard The cost is only The seasons kit. Some basic steps are listed below, Amazon $9 per month. for each of the shows are but there are also Prime Video listed separately. lots of video tutorials available online. The basic deal is low cost, Sometimes loses Fox films Disney + but the ultimate premium to Disney Vault. The 1. First, you need to package, which lets interface can be “buggy” hot-swap a circuit board viewers watch some and it raised the cost to $8 Disney movies before they a month and $80 a year. It on to a case. come out in theaters, has also has different content 2. Install stabilizers on the an additional cost. in different countries. circuit board. 3. Attach the plate on the You can use one of your It costs $15 per month, HBO Max own photos for your which is costly compared circuit board profile. Also, the to other services. 4. Place your switches in the Warner Brothers movies plate slots. are on the service. 5. Place your circuit board in the case. It only costs $6 a month, One upgrade is $65 per Hulu but college students can month and another 6. Add keycaps on to the switches, get it for less. It also has a upgrade is $71 per month. and YOUR KEYBOARD IS DONE!! good variety of shows Add-ons can also be for the price. pricey.
Netflix supports movies, The latest episodes are not TV shows, offline playback available right away. It has Netflix and has original an outdated library with programming. Viewers frequent changes. Also, can skip introductions and selection depends on there are no commercials. location. The price also People love to binge watch increases over time. on this platform. My New York Yankees By Christopher Marcelo
Back in 1903, Major League Baseball only had sixteen teams. Some of them were the Boston Americans, the Philadelphia Athletics, the Washington Senators and the Baltimore Oilers. When the Oilers moved here in 1903, they became the New York Highlanders. Today, the New York Highlanders are known as the New York Yankees. Through the years, the Yankees have had lots of outstanding players. Murderers’ Row was hands down the best of any Yankee lineup. This historic lineup from 1927 included Earle Combs, Mark Koenig, Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Bob Meusel, and Tony Lazzeri. Together they swept the Pirates in four games of the World Series. Another incredible squad had players like Derek Jeter, Alex Rodriguez, Mariano Rivera, Jorge Posada, and Andy Pettitte. Those 2009 Yankees had 103 wins and only fifty-nine losses before defeating the Philadelphia Phillies in the World Series. My all-time fantasy lineup would include my favorite Yankee players from the past and present. First off, the catcher for my team would be late Hall of Famer Yogi Berra who played for the Yankees from 1946-1963. Playing first base would be the late Lou Gehrig, but with an honorable mention to the late Mickey Mantle who also played that position. Playing second base for this team would be Robinson Cano who won with the Yankees in 2009. The third baseman for this amazing team would be Alex Rodriguez who also won that year. The great Derek Jeter, Number 2 himself, would be the shortstop. The outfielders for my team would include the late Babe Ruth, the late Joe DiMaggio, and the late Bob Meusel. The excellent pitchers would be the late Whitey Ford, Mariano Rivera, Andy Pettitte, Ron Guidry, and C.C. Sabathia. There is no doubt that this dream team could easily dominate any and all challengers. In my mind, the New York Yankees are one of the best baseball teams ever as evidenced by their twenty-seven championship wins, the most in baseball history. Almost every year, they are contenders for the World Series. Although they started this season a little shaky, they have steadily improved their win record. I wouldn’t be surprised to see the Yankees play in their forty-ninth World Series this fall.
Best NHL Rookies of All Time By Alba Dolengewicz and Victoria Mormando
The NHL stands for the National Hockey League, a professional ice hockey organization in North America. The first NHL goal ever recorded was in December 1917. It currently consists of thirty-one teams divided into the Eastern and Western Conferences. Twenty-four teams are from the United States and seven are from Canada. The most valuable franchise in the NHL, the New York Rangers, is currently worth $1.65 billion. The players below are three of the best rookies ever to play in the league
Player Joe Nieuwendyk Dale Hawerchuk BRIAN LEETCH
Rookie 1987-1988 Calgary Flames 1981-1982 Winnipeg Jets 1988-89 New York Rangers Year
Points Scored 51 Goals 45 Goals 23 Goals as a 41 Assists 58 Assists 48 Assists Rookie
Joe was one of the best Dale was the Brian was one of only five Player college players of all- time. youngest rookie at the time defensemen to score 100 Summary As a rookie in the NHL, he to ever tally 100 points in a points in a season with his was an integral part of single season. He went on to 102-point campaign. Calgary's Stanley Cup win play in the NHL for sixteen in 1989. seasons. NBA Playoff Predictions By TJ Paladino
The NBA, also known as the National Basketball Association, is a professional basketball organization that was founded in 1946 by Walter Brown. When the NBA was created it wasn't very popular, but that began to change in the early 1980s with players like Michael Jordan and Larry Bird. The NBA consists of thirty teams divided into two conferences known as the Eastern and Western Conferences. The NBA’s regular season usually has eighty-two games, but due to Covid-19 there were only seventy-two this year. The NBA playoff season consists of sixteen teams, eight in each conference. The bracket for the NBA playoffs are the one seed plays the eighth seed, the fourth seed plays the fifth seed, the third seed plays the sixth seed and the second seed plays the seventh seed.The playoffs usually start on April 18th, but Covid-19 has pushed them back to May 22nd. In each series of the finals, there is a best out of seven games sequence. This means if a team wins all four games, and the other team wins none, the first team will advance. However, if each team wins three games, they play an additional game seven and the winner will advance to the next level. The teams with the most final wins ever are the Los Angeles Lakers and the Boston Celtics with seventeen championships each. The player with the most wins ever is the Celtics’ Bill Russell who won a whopping eleven championships during his thirteen years in the NBA. One fun fact about the finals is the most consecutive 100+ points game by a team is twenty, which was done by the LA Lakers from 1959 to 1965. Another fun fact is the Denver Nuggets, LA Clippers, Memphis Grizzlies, Minnesota Timberwolves and the Charlotte Hornets have never appeared in the NBA Finals. Basketball fans love the NBA Finals. It’s a great series of games that brings people together to watch their favorite sport. When the final two teams duel it out this year, only one will get the coveted rings. I predict the champions will be the Brooklyn Nets! POSITIONS PLAYERS TEAMS GREATEST ACHIEVEMENTS
QB Tom New England Patriots He won his seventh Super Bowl in 2021. Brady and Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Wide Jerry San Francisco 49ers,Oakland Raiders, He had 207 touchdowns in his career. Receiver Rice Seattle Seahawks, Denver Broncos
Tight End Antonio San Diego Chargers Undrafted, he became the best TE ever. Gates
Halfback Jim Brown Cleveland Browns He had 12,000 rushing yards, the best back in the day.
Fullback Franco Pittsburgh Steelers, Seattle Seahawks He made the legendary play known as the Harris Immaculate Reception. JAMES BROWN Offensive Anthony Cincinnati Bengals, He made the All-Pro Team for eleven Lineman Muñoz Tampa Bay Buccaneers consecutive years.
Defensive Micheal NY Giants He had 141.5 sacks and 854 tackles. Lineman Strahan
Linebacker Lawrence NY Giants LT had 132.5 sacks in his career. Taylor
ACCORDING to Cornerback Deion Dallas Cowboys,Atlanta Falcons, He had fifty-three career interceptions. Sanders San Francisco 49ers, Baltimore Ravens
Free Ed Reed Cities Ravens and Houston Texans He averaged five interceptions a season. Safety
GREATEST NFL PLAYERS of ALL TIME Strong Troy Pittsburgh Steelers He had thirty-two interceptions in his Safety Polamalu career.
GREATEST PRINCIPAL of all TIME!
Mr. Clagnaz, you are our rock. You are the rock of our school. You are strong and solid. We can rely on you to help us and support us. You are happy when we succeed, and you hold us up when we have troubles. You have done so much to keep us all together while keeping us all safe. Mr. Clagnaz, thank you for being dependable, kind, caring and for being the principal we are so proud to have.
~Excerpt from presentation speech given on May 13, 2021 by Student Council President Vincent Massina~ Calling All Kandi Kids By Francesca Catanzaro and Genesis Chacon
What is Kandi? It’s a popular fashion accessory made of brightly colored beads known as pony beads. Kandi accessories can be homemade or store bought, but in any case they are a unique way to express yourself. Most people start out making Kandi bracelets and then go on to make bigger things like wrist cuffs or chokers. People who enjoy Kandis are sometimes called Kandi Kids. The Kandi trend began in the early 1990s. Today, whenever Kandi Kids trade their bracelets or other accessories, they put their hands together and make a peace, love, unity, and respect sign. When people wear Kandis on their right arm, they are willing to trade. When Kandi is worn on the left arm, trading is off limits. Sometimes, people like to add charms or small stuffed animals to their Kandis. Different types of pony beads such as solid beads, sparkle beads, and star beads are used to make personal and unique designs. Special Perler beads can be added separately. They are made by placing the meltable beads onto a tray. Once the beads are in a certain pattern, they are covered with parchment paper. After holding a warm iron over them, you will have a new design. If you are creative and like fashion, you could be a Kandi Kid too.
1. How many active volcanoes are in Italy? A. 3 B. 5 C. 0 2. Which of the following is considered a sacred animal in India? A. chicken B. donkey C. cow 3. Disney World has a train that was made 111 years ago. What year was that? A. 1900 B. 1910 C. 1920 4. Which European country was the first to make chocolate? A. Germany B. Spain C. France Take the Traveling Quiz 5. What country released the first animated movie? By Maggie Nunez A. Chile B. Paraguay C. Argentina 6. What percentage of Greece is made of mountains? As the world has started to slowly A. 80% B. 70% C. 10% reopen, where do you want to go? 7. How many castles are in Germany? There are so many places to visit. A. 100 B. 1510 C. 2100 Here are some fun facts about places 8. How many islands are part of Korea? that maybe you didn’t know before. A. 4000 B. 1301 C. 5120 Maybe this quiz will help you decide 9. Australia is known for what attraction? where to go on your next big A. beaches B . zoos C. shopping center adventure.
10. Which country is home to the world's largest waterfall?
. A. Scotland B. Argentina C. Australia 10.A 9.A. 8.A 7.C. A. 6. C. 5. B. 4. B. 3. C. 2. A. 1. GREECE TRIP ITINERARY Ελπίζουμε να απολαύσετε τη διαμονή σας! By Moksh Naik
As it says in the title, “We hope you enjoy your stay!” This Balkan gem, one of the world’s most iconic tourist destinations, awaits you this summer! Are You Ready for the trip of a lifetime, a seven day trip to Greece? Let’s go! DAY 1: FLIGHT ● Depart from New York’s Kennedy International Airport on a nearly ten hour flight. ● Arrive at Athens International Airport. Take shuttle service to check in at The Crowne Plaza Athens Hotel for the first two days of your vacation. ● Settle in to adjust to the inevitable jet lag. ● Here is a tip: Book a flight that lands at night to better adjust to jet lag. DAY 2: ATHENS ● After waking early for breakfast at the hotel, take a taxi to visit the Acropolis, the starting point for most tourists when visiting Athens. ● After touring the Parthenon, have lunch in the Plaka district on the foothills of the Acropolis. ● Visit the ancient Agora, the former city square, and be sure to explore the Temple of Hephaestus! Then, go shop in the nearby Monastiraki district, another marketplace. ● Watch the beautiful sunset over the Acropolis. DAY 3: ATHENS ● Visit the Panathenaic Stadium and access the interior, bleachers, and track for five euros, Greece’s currency. The topmost bleachers give you a great view of the Acropolis from afar! ● Later, go to Syntagma Square to view the must-see changing of the Presidential Guard which takes place every hour.The Parliament building of the country’s government is located here. ● Proceed to Ermou Street, in front of the square, and do some more shopping if you wish. If you go to the end of the street, you will be back in the Monastiraki district. ● Continue with a visit to the National Archeological Museum where you will find Neolithic-Roman era objects and artifacts. ● End with a trip to Mount Lycabettus for another pristine sunset over the Acropolis. DAY 4: MYCENAE/EPIDAURUS/NAFPLIO ● WARNING: You will be using the taxi a lot!! ● Get a taxi from the hotel to the Corinth Canal, about an hour from Athens. Originally carved by hand, large boats today fit through the narrow stone borders with just centimeters to spare! Also inspect the Diolkos Railway while there. ● Take an approximate forty minute taxi drive to Mykonos, an archeological site and home to a Trojan War hero! ● For twelve euros, enjoy the Royal Palace. Currently in ruins, you’ll need a really creative imagination to process what it may have looked like in the Trojan era. ● Drive to Epidaurus, part of the Peloponnese Region well known for its preserved amphitheater. From there, continue to the city of Nafplio, about half an hour away, to explore its three fortresses and admire the quaintness of the small seaside town. ● After, check into Agamemnon Hotel for the night. GREECE TRIP ITINERARY, continued
DAY 5: PALAMIDI FORTRESS/MONEMVASIA/MYSTRAS ● Continue your itinerary by visiting the Palamidi Fortress in Nafplio, about a ten minute drive from the hotel. Try to get there early because there will be a lot of driving later. The site is well-preserved and the view is pristine. Entry fee is about eight euros. ● Now, it's time take a taxi to Monemvasia. While the drive time is about three hours, there ● are scenic, picturesque views. ● Monemvasia is located on a huge rock, and this isn’t a joke. It's only connected to the mainland by a tiny road on a dike. If you want to help the Greek economy, take the one euro shuttle, or just take a fifteen minute walk. ● The city was built under a cliff on a huge rock, so you won’t see it until you cross the fortified gates.These were built in ancient times to protect from barbarians. ● Walk down the village’s paved alleys to enjoy the bars, craft shops, and local goods. Sometimes, to get the most out of a country as a tourist, don’t always follow the crowds. You never know what you might discover on your own. ● From the bottom of Monemvasia, go to the fortress at the top of the cliff to savor the splendid bird’s-eye view of the town and the sea!! ● After, get a taxi for a ninety minute drive to Mystras and check into Byzantion Hotel. DAY 6: MYSTRAS/OLYMPIA ● The archeological site of Mystras is five minutes from the center of the city. There are two parking lots, one for the upper city and the other for the lower city. Start with the upper city. ● This ancient fortified city was once the capital of the Byzantine Empire when the Ottomans took Constantinople (now Istanbul). In the upper city, you will find the fortress. Go down the stairs to view the Agia Sofia Church, the Palace of the Despots, and the small palace. DO NOT THROW YOUR UPPER CITY ENTRANCE TICKET AWAY. ● Continue with a cab to the lower city where you will have to present your ticket again. ● The lower city is mainly churches, monasteries, etc. One is still inhabited by Greek Orthodox nuns. Plan at least three hours for the visit to this place because it's HUGE!! ● Take a cab to Olympia, which is almost a three hour drive from Mystras. This is where the very first Olympic games took place. Head there in the evening hours since it will be less crowded and you can take better pictures. ● Pay twelve euros to visit the Archaeological Museum of Olympia. Don’t hesitate to visit the museum before the site as it may help you to imagine the site’s original splendor. ● Check into Leonidaion Guesthouse for the night. DAY 7: DELPHI ● Take a taxi to Delphi which is about a three hour drive from Olympia. ● When you arrive in the afternoon, start with a visit to the Archaeological Site of Delphi. This is one of the most famous sites in the country as it was where the mythological god Apollo transmitted directives to mortals. ● Mount Parnassus offers a breathtaking view of the mountains and valley. ● Pay twelve euros to visit the museum located on the Apollo temple, theater, and stadium. ● Check into Kastalia Boutique Hotel for your last night in Greece. DAY 8: RETURN TO ATHENS Airport for your journey home ● Getting to the airport for your flight back to New York will take just over two hours. If you have at least five hours, visit the neighboring wineries. They might even offer airport pickup! ● Sadly, your trip has ended. Did you enjoy it?
By Kimora Auguste and Lisette Bonilla WARNING: THIS QUIZ MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS!
1.When was the anime of My Hero Academia made? 6. Who received All Might’s quirk? a) July 2, 2018 b) July 5, 2018 a) Izuku Midoriya b) Katsuki Bakugou c) July 10, 2018 d) July 1, 2018 c) Eijiro Kirishima d) Momo Yaoyo
2. What is Todoroki’s hero name? 7. Who is the main character? a) Izuku Todoroki b) Todoroki Midoriya a) Izuku Midoriya b) Ochako Uraraka c) Shoto Todoro d) Shoto c) Tenya Iida d) Denki Kaminari
3. What is Bakugo’s quirk? 8. Which Hero is aiming to be number one? a) Explosions b) Hardening a) Himiko Toga b) Mt. Lady c) One for All d) Fire & Ice c) Shoto Todoroki d) Denki Kaminari
4. Who is the #1 Hero? 9. Who is Class 1A’s vice president? a) Endeavor b) All Might a) Denki Kaminari b) Tenya Iida c) Fat Gum d) Hawks c) Sero Hanta d) Mina Ashido
5. Who is the leader of the League of Villains? 10. Who does Deku look up to?
a) Dabi b) Himiko Toga c) Twice d) Shigaraki a) All Might b) Fat Gum c) Hawks d) Mt. Lady
ANSWERS: 1AB, 2C, 3A, 4B, 5D, 6A, 7A, 8C, 9B, 10A 9B, 8C, 7A, 6A, 5D, 4B, 3A, 2C, 1AB, ANSWERS:
“Hard words are very rarely useful. Real firmness is good for everything. Strut is good for nothing.”
The Amazing Alexander Hamilton By Brianna Gomez-Elias
Alexander Hamilton is known all over the world. He fought in the Revolutionary War and created many of the federal systems still used today. He’s even on the ten dollar bill and is the star of his own musical! Hamilton found success as an American soldier, political leader, and founding father. He was also the first Secretary of the Treasury. Before that, he was just another poor boy on the island of Saint Kitts and Nevis. Born there in 1755, his young life was very hard. After his parents’ divorce, he went to live with his abusive and cruel brother. Alexander soon moved back to his mother’s house, but shortly after they both got sick. While Alexander got better, his mother did not. Although very depressed about his mother’s death, he was determined to have a better life. He earned a lot of money on the island and then got accepted to King's College in New York. This move would be a turning point in his life. A few years after arriving in New York, Hamilton met a man named Aaron Burr. At that time, he had no idea that Burr would become his rival. Hamilton also met Marquis de Lafayette, John Laurens, and Hercules Mulligan who would become his best friends. All five men would fight side by side in the Revolutionary War. Hamilton eventually became Washington’s right-hand man, writing the general’s important correspondences to Congress. A few months later, he met the love of his life, Eliza Schuyler. Although he also fell in love with her sister, Hamilton married Eliza and they had eight children. He was such a good parent that one of his sons would give his own life in defense of his father’s reputation and honor. Hamilton was a very intelligent man. After the war, he became a popular political leader and developed many important systems that Americans still uses today such as our country’s first national bank. He also helped to create a strong federal government and the Bill of Rights. If you want to learn more about his extraordinary life and his tragic death, you can read biographies or watch documentaries. In addition, I highly recommend seeing the hit musical Hamilton when it returns to Broadway. You won’t regret it. 1980s Inspired Summer Clothes ATTENTION TEACHERS! By Caitlyn Holman By Nicole Alvarenga and Joanne Ciceron
The 1980s had an iconic fashion style. From acid-washed jeans and polka dots to chunky jewelry and leather accents, there was something for We've taken your tests all year. Now it's our everyone.One really big thing about the 1980s was that turn to test your knowledge! Since it’s a test designers used fabrics with very bright colors. based on popular music from the 1990s, you The unique style of that decade shouldn't have too much trouble. Please send your answers in an email addressed to is actually making a comeback this summer. [email protected] and [email protected]. Check out some of my ‘80s inspired summer designs. The first teacher to get a perfect score will get a special prize. Good luck!
1: When was Vogue by Madonna released? A. 1998 B. 1994 C. 1990 D. 1993
2: Who sang the song Black or White? A. Vanilla Ice B. Boyz II Men C. Michael Jackson D. Nirvana
3: Who sang the song Wannabe in 1996? A. Shakespeare B. Rednex C. Spice Girls D. UB40
4: What year was Ice, Ice Baby released? A. 1999 B. 1991 C. 1995 D. 1998
5: Who sang I Want It That Way? A. Backstreet Boys B. Destiny’s Child C. Michael Jackson D. Mariah Carey
6:Who sang I Don’t Care-1992? A. Shakespeare Sisters B. Spice Girls C. Michael Jackson D. Nirvana
7: How many number one hits did Mariah Carey release in the 1990s? A. 15 B. 14 C. 17 D. 20
8: When was Celine Dion’s My Heart Will Go On released? A. 1990 B. 1994 C. 1997 D. 1996 The Incredible Adventures of Blue and Colette By Brianna Gomez Elias
Once upon a time, there were two neighbors and friends named Blue and Colette. Blue was a sixteen-year-old boy with dark green eyes, curly brown hair, and freckles. He loved trendy clothes, hot chocolate, and his family and friends. He was a good person who liked to giggle a lot and was very protective of those he loved. Colette was almost sixteen years old and had green eyes and light brown hair. She was a pretty girl who liked to wear stylish and trendy clothes with comfortable shoes. More importantly, Colette was strong, devoted, loyal, selfless, heroic, witty, smart, noble, kind and resourceful. Like Blue, she was very protective of her friends and family especially her little sister named Marina. One day, Blue and Colette decided to adopt a lost duck they had found. They fell in love with the duck, but had no idea what to name it. Blue said, “I’ve got it. How about we name him Chocolate?” Colette disagreed, “Mmmm...how about Nacho?” Blue quickly disagreed. Then Marina suggested, “How about Quack?” Blue and Colette laughed and finally agreed, “Quack it is!”
One week later, Blue, Colette, and Quack were at the park enjoying a calm and lovely picnic. Suddenly, Quack began to speak! He politely asked, “May I please have some strawberries and toast?” He ended his question by adding, “Quack! Quack!” As you can imagine, Blue and Colette where shocked by Quack’s surprising ability to speak! They gave Quack exactly what he’d requested as if they were in a daze, but Blue and Colette worried they might be going crazy. If they were hallucinating, they needed to get to the hospital. Just then, a strange man who had been walking by acted as if he had also heard Quack talking. He ran away quickly, almost as if he were a spy. Maybe he was in shock too. Nevertheless, Blue and Colette decided to leave the park just in case the man came back. Blue and Colette took Quack to their secret hideout, a large tree house built over their two backyards. They asked Quack a series of questions. How was he able to talk? Where did he come from? Quack’s responses only left them more confused. He explained, “I can talk because I’m from a different dimension. I’m from a place in space called Shork. I have come here to be happy and to escape the dangers of my planet. You’ll like me if you decide to keep my secret. You can trust me. I can also fly, cook, dance, sing and do magic.” Blue and Colette were stunned and confused, but ultimately they were actually pretty cool about this information. Quack relaxed and laughingly added, “Well, I can’t actually do all of those things, but I don’t care because now I have two beautiful humans to take care of me.” Blue and Colette cried as they gently hugged Quack. They reassured their new friend that they loved him and would always protect him.
Two happy years passed and life was going great. Quack was happy living his best life with Blue and Colette. Little did they know that someone from planet Shork had been watching them this whole time. They were having yet another picnic in the park when something terrible happened. The mystery man had returned and grabbed Quack! He ran with Quack to an abandoned area near the park and went into a secret portal that had been hidden there. Blue and Colette were convinced this strange man was actually a Shork spy. They did their best to chase the spy and Quack. Eventually, they found the hidden portal by following Quack’s dropped feathers. The friends didn’t hesitate to enter the portal even though they had no idea where they were going. When they made it through to the other side, there were thousands of more portal openings! They were so confused their mouths dropped open. After what seemed like forever of just standing there, a nymph named Elle appeared. She waved and said, “Hi! I am your personal portal helper. I see you are in trouble. How can I help?” Blue and Colette were shocked even further and they were already really scared. They had no idea keeping a talking duck would cause so much danger. Blue slowly said, “Umm, we are looking for a talking duck...from planet Shork. He’s our friend and we promised to always take care of him. Can you help please us?” Elle happily replied, “Of course! That's why I am here. I can help, but let me tell you something about Shork first. It’s a very dangerous place as are most of the outer dimensions. And so I recommend that you take these to keep you both safe.” As he took the weapons and maps from Elle, Blue whispered, “Thank you.”
Meanwhile, the spy and Quack were already into the first dimension. Even though it was scary, Quack pretended to be unbothered. Instead, he acted like the fire, dragons, and darkness were all part of a great adventure. Quack knew the spy was taking him back to Spork to be punished. To get there, they had to first pass through the portal of the giant Sir Punchticus. Luckily, Quack was able to escape from the clutches of the spy and quickly made it to another portal. Unfortunatley, Quack didn’t know that Blue and Colette had made it to the portal of Sir Punchticus and were trying to outrun the tall and angry man at that very moment. Colette created a diversion so Blue could gather rocks to toss at Punchticus. When the giant slowed down to avoid the rocks, Blue and Colette made a run for it. They stopped short when they heard Punchitcus’ very sad voice ask, “What is Earth like?” Despite thinking it was a trap, Colette answered the question by saying, “Earth is extraordinarily cool and full of caring, loving, fun people as well as exciting and unpredictable moments.” Then she and Blue ran off as fast as they could. Blue and Colette soon found themselves walking through a strange Earth-like place where everything appeared pixelated. This dimension wasn’t menacing like the last one. Instead, it seemed familiar and had a nice touch to it. As they traveled through it looking for Quack, they found themselves in front of a monument with a house on it. They didn’t hesitate going into the welcoming home. As they searched inside with flashlights, they noticed a path had been cleared as if just for them. Then, they bumped into something and heard a loud roar, but before they could turn to run back outside, a strong yet playful lion appeared! With a roar/giggle, the lion introduced himself. He happily said, “Hi! My name is Bobert and I love sports, humans, adventure, and everything that makes my world perfect.” Blue and Colette immediately liked and trusted Bobert so they introduced themselves. They also told Bobert why they were there. The kind lion warned them that Shork was indeed the most dangerous planet/dimension to ever exist. Fearing for his new friends’ safety, Bobert volunteered to join their quest to find Quack.
During this time, Quack had at last arrived at Shork. Although afraid, nervous, and anxious, he was also strangely calm. He realized he might be in great peril, but he also had a confident feeling that his friends were somehow not too far behind. In fact, Blue and Colette were just then running into the Shork portal with Bobert. They knew they were headed in the right direction as they followed Quack's footprints and feathers. When they finally found Quack, they all rejoiced in happiness. Not long after this joyful reunion, the terrible leader of Shork named Winter showed up. A strange hybrid of wolf and human, Winter was powerful, intelligent and expected her subjects to obey her completely. She looked at Quack with disgust and started to growl. Quack had a only a small chance of survival if Winter decided to attack. Just then, Elle appeared out of nowhere with Sir Punchitcus! They both had decided to join forces to help the team defeat Winter for good! With a hateful grin on her face, Winter sneered, “Well, well, well, look who it is. Quack, humans, fairies, giants and lions all together. How very lovely. Now, let’s stop this nonsense and hand over the traitor Quackor else you will all suffer!” Without any hesitation, the team shouted, “Never!” Winter chuckled as her army gathered behind her. Then she yelled, “Destroy them!”
After a long and tough fight, the team was able to assemble a catapult to launch rocks and metal objects at Winter’s army. Although injured, Winter still put up a fight by using her fire-breathing abilities to destroy anything in her path without mercy. When her soldiers saw this, they were all disgusted and deserted her. Alone and deserted, Winter had no choice but to surrender. She was forced to free all the other dimensions. After the historic battle, Blue and Colette made the hard decision to return home without Quark. They knew he was needed to rebuild his planet and the other newly free dimensions. As the new and wise ruler of Shork, Quack rewarded Bobert, Elle and Sir Punchitcus for their loyalty by making them his special advisors. Together, they decided to banish Winter into the darkness of deep space forever. Whenever the new leaders need a vacation, however, they travel through the portal that takes them back to Blue and Colette. And everyone has lived happily ever since then.
The End READ THE EXCITING CONCLUSION OF... Keepers of the Notebook By Nia Butler and the Seventh Grade
As Charles, Hiro, and Xiao sat down, everyone in The Mushroom couldn’t help but be still. The Monster Hunters were intimidating to say the least, and no one wanted any trouble. However, it seemed like they were looking for something. And while the others held back their impulses to ask what they were looking for, Rin could not. “Excuse me, sir,” Rin politely said. “I noticed that you are missing something and I was wondering what it is.” Xiao got up from his search and stood, towering over Rin. The whole cafe was taken aback with fear. Then, a grim voice replied, “My map.” “What?” “My map,” he said agan. “I am looking for the Orcs. The person who kills it will be greeted with a nice reward. Someone has stolen my map. Rumor has it that he was just here.” “What is the man’s name?” “Levi Ackerman.” “You’re not gonna’ kill him, right?” Eddy asked. “I might.” The cafe fell into another moment of silence. “We’ll help you find it,” Rin said finally.
Meanwhile in the town’s square, Christabelle, Amber, Stella, and Jane were racing to follow Levi. Unfortunately, Christabelle still had no idea why or even what the Orcs was. “Guys, can we take a break?” Christabelle huffed. “No, there’s no time,” Amber shouted. “We have to find Levi.” “Why is it so important anyways?” Christabelle asked. “And what is the Orcs?” The girls suddenly all stopped in their tracks. “You don’t know what the Orcs is?” Jane asked. Christabelle just shook her head. “The Orcs is a creature that has been terrorizing us for years,” Stella began. “It lives in Crying Cave and this map leads to it. Coming anywhere near this place would lead you to certain doom!” “Ok, you guys are right, we have to find Levi,” Christabelle said. Just as they were about to take off, they spotted Levi heading for the woods. “Levi!” they yelled.
The man turned around to see the girls trying to get his attention. He saw the map in Stella’s hand and ran to them. “What are you doing?” he asked. “And why do you have my map?” “It’s not our fault that you dropped it,” Amber replied. “A thank you would be nice.” Stella handed him the map. As he was about to run off again, Christabelle grabbed his wrist. “We’re coming with you,” she said firmly.
While Rin and Christabelle were headed to the Orcs, Harlow had yet to convince the knights to take her. “I want you guys to take me to the Orcs,” Harlow said. “Sorry kid,” Mars started. “It's way too dangerous.” “I wouldn’t take her,'' Anastasia said. “I don't trust this girl.” “I promise to stay close to you and to not do anything irrational.” “No.” “Please, this is really important to me.” After giving it some more thought, the knights and Anastasia decided to take Harlow to the Orcs.
The three girls were finally on their separate ways to Crying Cave, the home of the Orcs. They had been so caught up in their own adventures that Rin, Christabelle, and Harlow had somehow forgotten all about each other. When the three groups reached Crying Cave, the girls were pleasantly surprised to see each other there. But when the knights, townspeople, and those from The Mushroom finally met face to face, chaos ensued. “Levi Ackerman,” Xiao started. “You have my map and I want it back!” “I’m sorry, but I can't give it to you,” Levi responded. “Fine, I’ll just have to take it from you!” While Levi and Xiao fought it out, the knights and Anastasia spotted the princesses. “What are you doing here?” Kona asked “And why are you at Crying Cave?” Jeff added. “Don’t look at me,” Nini answered. “Look at Alice.” “Hey, that’s not fair!” Alice started. “We’re only here because Abella thought it would be fun.” “Well, it’s not my fault that Dakota and Cecilia wanted some fresh air!” Abella argued.
Just as things couldn’t get any worse, a large roar erupted from the Cave. “Look at yourselves!” Rin shouted. “All this fighting has woken up the Orcs!”
“We are only here because that’s what you three wanted in the first place,” a voice added. Everyone turned their heads to see Alger. “I’ve been watching you three and all you want is trouble,” he said. “That is not true,” Christabelle started. “All we want is to go home, and the thing that will get us there is in that Cave.” “The only way to get it is to defeat the Orcs,” Harlow added. “And we need all the help we can get.” “We’ll help you,” the knights, princesses, and Anastasia said together. “Us too,” said Frankie and everyone else from The Mushroom. “And us,” agreed Amber, Stella, Jane, and Alger.
And so it was that everyone at Crying Cave helped the three girls fight the Orcs. The battle was long and hard, but the plan was simple. Everyone was to distract the Orcs so that the knights could then kill it. In the end, they were victorious. While everyone else celebrated, Rin, Christabelle, and Harlow went searching for the notebook. “I found it!” Rin shouted. As they flipped to the last page, they were surprised to see that it was blank. “I was sure that we had written something,” Christabelle said. Just then, words started to appear on the page:
Congratulations, you have finished the story, And now, you can finally go home. All you have to do is hold hands, And simply say : The End.
The girls went left the cave and said goodbye to their newfound friends. The moment was bittersweet, but they knew it was time to go. After taking each other's hands, Rin, Harlow, and Christabelle finally said: “The End.”