Blizzard Website

Link to pianoplayer97 and I's website:

http://pianoplayer97andsoftballgirl96.webs.com/

Lit. Poems

"Red"

Painted suns are gold,

Skies are blue;

Red is the burning

The Germans went to.

Books are black,

Eyes are like ice;

Red are the apples

The farmer hated to sacrifice.

Green is pea soup,

Brown is for bread;

Red is the sky

Above the innocent dead.

"Words for an Accepting Man"

Hans

Giving, willing, and patient

Who loves the feeling of accordion keys

Who feels worried about Max's presence

Who needs his painting job for cigarettes

Who shares his wisdom and passion for music

Who fears the capture and death of Max

Who'd like to see his son, and know he's okay

Who dreams of Germans and Jews united as one

Who ends up being remembered for his golden heart

Aquarium Trip

Recently, my class went on a trip to the Adventure Aquarium in Camden. There, we walked around to various exhibits, learning about different sea creatures. We even were able to touch a few of them. The reason we went on this trip was that we had just finished our unit on animals in science. Some of which included sponges, cnidarians, and echinoderms, all of which were able to be seen at the aquarium and much more. This field trip enhanced our knowledge of the creatures and helped us better understand information on others. There are three exhibits, though, that I found most fascinating.

The first exhibit I found extremely intriguing was the "Creature Lab". This involved standing on a line and waiting to enter an area filled with tanks. These tanks were low and shallow enough for you to be able to stick your arm in. At this location, you would use two fingers to gently touch the animal, depending which tank you were at. There were sting rays, jelly fish, and a few other animals that you could touch. The ones I personally found most interesting, though, were the jellyfish. They bobbed up and down in the tank and felt very soft and delicate. However, as I felt the exterior of the animal, I realized that it was more hard than I expected. I had thought it would be very squishy, where you could easily make an imprint with your fingers, but I was proved wrong. Though I had learned about cnidarians in class, I was able to discover something new.

The second attraction I enjoyed was "The Jules Verne Gallery". The reason this struck me as interesting was that I had recently read a passage about this author. I was amazed by the murals on the walls of several exotic creatures that I assumed were used in his novels. On the other hand, there was a live animal that looked insanely unique, thus, I had to learn more about it. Unfortunately, though, I could not remember the name of this crab. I looked all over the websites, and could only come up with the Japanese Spider Crab. After doing a bit of research online, assuming from my memory that this was the one I saw at the aquarium, I learned that this animal's natural habitat is at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean. Thus, this would very much explain why I have not seen this crab around. Furthermore, the third exhibit I appreciated was "Hippos". The two that were in the tank looked very calm and happy as they sat in the warm water. On the contrary, these were not the only animals in the tank. There were also thousands of colorful fish, some of which were actually on top of the hippos. The fish that were there were lightly sucking the ticks, parasites, and dead skin off of them. This is known as a symbiotic relationship. In fact, there were also birds at this location, most likely to take everything off when the hippopotami weren't in the water. In summation, I had learned a great deal of information while attending this trip to Adventure Aquarium, and I felt that this was very much worth going on.

In my opinion, this field trip to Adventure Aquarium in Camden was an enlightening experience. Not only did I get to further my knowledge on the animals I learned about previously, but I also received the chance to touch them. Granted, we do labs back at school, but it is still thrilling to get a simple day out of the year to learn in a different way. Plus, watching all of these creatures in their replicated habitats is fascinating and in the end will further our scientific knowledge on them. This trip was most definitely fun and at the same time educational. I would most certainly return to this location if I received the chance to. All in all, this was a knowledge-enhancing experience and these three exhibits were the ones I found to be the most intriguing along with my opinion.

Further Research Sources:

http://www.animalcorner.co.uk/marine/crabs/crabs_japspider.html

http://www.livnaked.com/the-hippo-and-the-human/

Picture:

http://media.nj.com/route_45/photo/hippos2jpg-03d66c1e124f9a1f.jpg

Earthquake Moves Chilean City

This massive earthquake occurred off the coast of the Maule region of Chile. It happened to be in one of the Earth's seismic hot spots. During this event, one of the plates squished under the neighboring South American plate. Tension increased as the plates moved against each other, thus causing this extreme quake. Luckily, though, scientists can further the study of these natural disasters with their advanced GPS locations of instruments prior to the quake and then after.

According to a man named Ben Brooks, of the University of Hawaii, and a co-principal investigator of the GPS project in Chile, "The Maule earthquake will arguably become one of the, if not the most important great earthquake studied yet." Following this, what he is basically trying to say is that their equipment is now so modern and precise that they can better understand the causes of these natural disasters overall. The CAP (Central and Southern Andes GPS Project) now has twenty-five stations for which they can study the motion and deformation of the Earth's crust. Furthermore, Mike Bevis of Ohio State University says, "By building new stations, the project can monitor post-seismic deformations that are expected to occur for many years,". Thus, it is evident that their modern technology will help them somewhat be better at telling when an earthquake will hit and how to prepare for it.

In my opinion, this is an excellent article when it comes to explaining the recent Chilean earthquake. It is interesting to learn that two measly plates squeezing together caused this huge disaster. Additionally, the amount some of these places moved was shocking. However, considering that this had an 8.8 magnitude, some might say it's to be expected. Still, not being the most-knowledgeable on earthquakes, I find this very fascinating. To add on, I believe it is incredible to hear about all of the high-tech, advanced equipment these scientists use to calculate different facts about occurring earthquakes. The fact that this technology can further the study on these natural disasters is all the more exciting. Having the information of an upcoming earthquake possibility will assist the overall preparation of possible earthquakes and will keep people safer. All in all, I found, "Quake Moved Chilean City 10 Feet" by LiveScience Staff incredibly intriguing and the information eye-opening.

Picture: Chile_EarthquakeNov13.jpg

Article: http://www.livescience.com/php/multimedia/imagedisplay/img_display.php?s=environment&c=news&l=on&pic=chile-quake-map-100309-02.jpg&cap=This+map%2C+created+by+Project+CAP+%28Central+and+Southern+Andes+GPS+Project%29%2C+shows+the+displacements+of+the+Earth%27s+crust+caused+by+the+Feb.+27+Maule+earthquake+in+Chile.+Credit%3A+James+Foster+and+Ben+Brooks+at+the+University+of+Hawaii&title=

Research Task--How it Relates to Math

The topic I chose to pursue for the research task is Child Soldiers in Africa. This choice is very interesting and has key relations to math. For instance, the people who study children soldiers have calculated that over eighty-six countries still used child soldiers as of 2008. Also, there is another aspect, such as finding out how it affects the adolescents in Africa mentally. Researchers had to use observations and calculations to figure out that watching loved ones die before their eyes could cause post traumatic stress disorder and depression. Further, in order to conclude that carrying heavy equipment on the children's growing spines would deform it, the analyst would have to calculate how their backs changed over time. In addition, another way the topic Child Soldiers in Africa could relate to math is that recordings and calculations would be the only way for them to find out that illness and infection come from malnutrition and exposure to bad weather. Lastly, analysts can study the irregular behavior from adolescents who are forced to take habit-forming drugs. All in all, the choice Child Soldiers in Africa can clearly connect to math due to the calculations and observations needed to find the affects on the children when fighting in battle and the number of countries that are currently using them.

Sea Urchin Body: One Big Eye

Recently, I read an article titled, "Body of Sea Urchin is One Big Eye" written by Charles Q. Choi, Special to LiveScience. In this reading, I found the information very intriguing and learned more about sea urchins than I ever knew before.

To begin, I took this article as a fascinating way to learn how sea urchins see. Now, because they don't have eyes, this might be pertained as very difficult. However, according to the article, "Genetic analysis of sea urchins has revealed they have light-sensitive molecules, mostly in their tube feet and in tiny stalked appendages found in among their spines." Thus, this explains the reasoning for considering a sea urchin body to be "One Big Eye". Plus, with their spines, the creatures can pick out fine details by screening out light from off angles, according to scientists.

On the other hand, this theory had to be proven. Johnsen, a marine biologist at Duke University, and his colleagues, experimented with California purple sea urchins (Strongylocentrotus purpuratus). In this experiment, the group would put 39 of the urchin specimens into a brightly lit four-foot wide arena and see how they responded to the black disk on the wall. When the disk was three-and-a-half inches wide, the sea creatures reacted strongly. In result of this foreign object, two-thirds of the group swam towards it while the other portion swam away. The opposite responses towards this disk may have had to do with whether the sea urchins saw the disk as a shelter or predator. Furthermore, according to Johnsen, "To say the 'raced' toward the discs is relative - watching these guys move is like watching paint dry." Therefore, it is evident that the sight of these animals may not be what we humans have, judging by the speed of their movement.

In addition, even though sea urchins don't have brains, "it could be their entire nervous system more or less acts as a brain," according to Johnsen. Instead of being like us humans and having one main control center, they more or less don't have one, as far as scientists have researched. Additionally, their nerves are extremely small, making it even harder to research than normal. Also, it seems as though sea urchins carry out eyesight and brain work like scientists design robots these days.

Though research continues to be done on this amazing species, researchers still have many questions. Some of which are, "Are these urchins that always run away or run towards them?" and "Do we have timid or bold urchins? Or is it just something specific to how an urchin feels at a certain time?" All of these questions have come from Johnsen after his experiment with the California purple sea urchin. However, these questions could be answered easily, simply by clipping the spines off of this sea creature to find out how they contribute to vision. Although, despite the fact that this procedure may "make sense", it could make the sea urchin very sick, and possibly die. Along with this, if researchers were going to go through so much trouble finding out how their spines would help them see, would they go to the most extreme levels which could possibly harm them and not even get the best results?

Personally, I feel the topic of sea urchins is very bold and engaging. Before reading this article, I had no idea that sea urchins did not have actual eyes. Using their nerves to locate predators and shelter is a very interesting way of living. The experiment with the black disk was really cool because it is always fun to read about an animals reaction to certain situations. I've constantly been attracted to animal behavior and sciences, so naturally, I find this article to be far from a bore. On top of that, I would much rather see these scientists do more experiments like the one with the black disk than cutting out their spines. My reasoning for this is that, personally, I feel there is no point to hurting this creature, just to find out how their spines connect to their ability to see. Not only could this demonstration hurt the sea urchins, but it could potentially kill them. In my opinion, there are much better ways to go about sea urchin research than to put them in danger while doing it. All in all, this is the information I recently learned from the article, "Body of Sea Urchin is One Big Eye" by Charles Q. Choi, Special to LiveScience, and my opinion of it.

Article and Picture: http://www.livescience.com/animals/091228-sea-urchin-eye.html

Medical Technologist in Clinical Chemistry

This is my pod cast about a career in chemistry. As you listen to this, there will be excellent information on this job. Such as, job opportunities, universities and colleges offering this career, how it is helping the community, and so on. Thank you for listening and I hope you enjoy this information and consider becoming a Medical Technologist in Clinical Chemistry.

http://omegapride.podOmatic.com/entry/2009-12-11T09_09_26-08_00

Observing a Candle and Pouring a Gas! (Class Response)

Recently, my class had been studying physical and chemical changes. We also did two labs to go along with the lesson. One was called Observing a Candle, and the other was called Pouring a Gas. For the first lab, each group had a yellow candle with white stripes, and it was standing on the table by having a piece of yellow clay molded around it. First, we had to prepare a data table that would list the physical properties and chemical properties of a lit and unlit candle. After that, we had to observe the unlit candle and write down all of it's properties. Later, our teacher came around to each lab and lit the candle so we could record our observations for it. For the second lab, each group had a beaker full of vinegar and another beaker filled with baking soda. Carefully, we had to add a small amount of baking soda to the vinegar. This procedure caused the liquid to fizz, which was a chemical reaction. However, it did not overflow. Following the directions for the Pouring a Gas lab, one person in my group tilted the beaker with both components over the lit candle and the flame went out. A potent smell of waxy smoke filled our noses, almost like when someone makes a wish and blows out their birthday candles. Doing these labs also helped me further my knowledge on physical and chemical changes of a substance.

One interesting fact that I learned was that when you add carbon dioxide to a flame, it extinguishes immediately. Another fact I learned was that a physical change changes the form of a substance while a chemical change changes the entire substance. I also found out that the name of the process of burning a candle is called combustion. However, I also learned more about this from further research. For example, the website I explored said this is an exothermic change, due to the fact that it releases heat to the atmosphere along with other products. Lastly, this website also informed me that the concentration of oxygen is greatest on the outer edge of the flame since the source of the oxygen is the atmosphere.

In my opinion, this lab was an excellent way to learn about chemical and physical changes through a hands-on activity. This way, we could process more information through doing the lab, instead of sitting and taking notes. Plus, the fact that burning a candle is an example of chemical change, it was fun to actually do it with fellow classmates and learn together. I enjoyed learning that mixing baking soda and vinegar could extinguish a fire because it was unique to see a fire put out without the use of water or a fire blanket. I always think it is extremely fun to do an activity where you can follow the steps and get a really cool result. Such as, starting out with baking soda and vinegar in separate beakers and an unlit candle. Then, as we followed the steps, we extended our knowledge of physical and chemical changes, finally learning that a candle has flammability and can be put out with simple household components, due to the carbon dioxide. Overall, this lab was a phenomenal way to continue the lesson of physical and chemical changes and I would love to do ones like this in the future.

My Further Information: http://www.newton.dep.anl.gov/askasci/chem99/chem99454.htm

My Picture: http://z.about.com/d/chemistry/1/0/0/0/1/candlemagictrick.jpg

Science Extra Credit! (T.V. Show Connected to Science)

Recently, I've watched the show Top Chef Las Vegas on BravoTV. This is a show about the competitive and pressure-loaded environment of world-class cookery and the highest level of restaurant business. Each season there are seventeen competitors who battle their way through all sorts of cooking challenges to claim the title of "Top Chef". This show clearly has connections to science, due to the topics covered.

To begin, there is the portion of the show that involves cooking. Each episode has two challenges, one quick-fire and one elimination, which involve cooking a dish that will be superior to all, following the rules of the game. There are many ways that cooking these dishes can relate to science. For example, Brian Voltaggio, a contestant on the show, used dry ice to create his dish for the quick-fire challenge. Dry ice is an example of a solid going directly into a gas. Therefore, his use of the ingredient in the dish had much to do with science. Also, contestant Ash Fulk found out that his coffee custards weren't setting at all. This could possibly have had to deal with the heat of the room or the atmosphere. Thus, another factor related to the wonderful science field. In addition, when the judges came around to taste what the contestants had created, there were several different ways they cut certain ingredients in their dishes. The different forms of cuts are examples of physical change because an ingredient starts out a certain shape, but after dicing, slicing, chopping, julienning, and so on, it is no longer what it used to be. Furthermore, Michael Isabella, another participant of the show, made a cucumber yogurt soup and rack of lamb kabob style. The soup represented a liquid and the lamb represented a solid. Liquids are substances that have particles close together, but can still move freely, while solids are substances that have particles that are packed tightly together and cannot move freely. These foods clearly have a connection to science. Lastly, Tom Colicchio, a judge on Top Chef Las Vegas, commented on one of the dishes in the elimination challenge, saying the fish was too dry. This may have had to do with some science related issues such as whatever the person used to cook the fish was too hot. Subsequently tracing back to the issues that Ash had in dealing with scientific factors with his custards.

Overall, Top Chef Las Vegas on BravoTV is related to science mostly by what the contestants cook. Food is a part of science that has a copious amount of elements connected to the subject. Such as, making physical and chemical changes by cutting, burning, boiling, and searing all types of food. Plus, creating liquid and solid dishes to present to a floor of judges is a way that science is related to food. Basically, Top Chef Las Vegas is purely associated with the science field and can better educate you on different ways to cook, prepare, and reactions foods have together.

Picture: http://www.aceshowbiz.com/images/news/00025581.jpg

Traveling H1N1 and Other Diseases

Recently, I've read an article titled, "Grounding Flights Won't Stop Flu," by Jason Socrates Bardi, Inside Science News Service. This reading is about how grounding planes is not worth it when it comes to the flu. For example, despite the fact that people aren't traveling as much, the flu still managed to spread around the world. Plus, "Even a little bit of travel goes a long way in spreading diseases like influenza," Cooper said, "so any achievable reductions in flying are not likely to make much of a difference." In addition, Cooper made models showing the effects of restricted air travel, and in the best case scenario after the first case emerged, the spread would only be postponed for several weeks. Outbreaks in the city would be established eventually. Therefore, that is another reason why grounding planes is a waste of time. According to the article, "part of the problem is that when people are sick, they fly away, despite a consensus among the experts on the panel that people with suspected cases of influenza should not fly." This is basically telling us that if people stayed in bed, like their doctors directed, there would be less of a spread because there is no risk of spreading it to other passengers. An example of this would be a 22-year-old woman returning from a trip to Mexico and then flying to Israel through Madrid, Spain. The lady was sick and then diagnosed with H1N1, also known as, Swine Flu. However, two days after the landing, another woman sitting directly in front of her on the plane to Madrid got struck with the same virus. Even though the doctors weren't sure if the second passenger had caught it elsewhere, it is still possible that air travel had caused it. On the other hand, it all depends on how healthy the people are to begin with.

Commercial airplanes are designed to pack large amounts of people into small spaces. But, the air is constantly circulating, so dangerous germs are being filtered out. However, germs are still likely to stick on surfaces for long periods of time. People today share common surfaces more than any other time in history. Overall, the proven methods, according to doctors, of avoiding illnesses are washing your hands, avoiding touching your eyes, getting vaccinated against the flu, and not flying if you are sick.

Another part of this article had to do with a timeline of disease spread on planes and acts passed by the White House to quarantine people who are sick with certain diseases. For example, in 1979, a plane with 54 passengers was delayed on the ground due to engine failure. During this wait, the ventilation system was turned off. One of the people had been sick with influenza. Also, within three days, 72 percent of the other passengers became ill. Furthermore, on December 22nd, 1983, the White House issued executive order #13295 that added Ebola, Lassa fever, and other hemorrhagic fevers to a list of communicable diseases. That way, the federal government could apprehend, detain, or quarantine individuals to prevent the spread.

In my opinion, I agree 100% percent with the idea that ground flights will not stop the flu from spreading. The reason I agree is because people are still in contact with each other even if they don't travel by plane. For instance, let's say a person drives from Oklahoma to California to visit family. When he arrives, he finds out that his relatives have been hit with H1N1. The person decides not to drive back because it is his sister's birthday and there is no point in leaving for the flu. Later, when he comes back to Oklahoma, he ends up getting the Swine Flu. Eventually, the person comes in contact with other people, and they catch the pandemic. Thus, this is my reasoning for why grounding flights will do very little to stop spreading. For, it is only one of the ways H1N1 can be carried. However, I am still a strong believer of the simple ways to prevent this, such as, washing your hands and getting vaccinated. The reason I believe in this is because they are easy to follow, and in the long run, they help much more. Overall, this is what the article, "Grounding Flights Won't Stop Flu," by Jason Socrates Bardi, Inside Science News Service, is all about, and how I feel about it.

My article and picture: http://www.livescience.com/health/091001-swine-flu.html

Kenya Lion Loss

Recently, I read an article about the rapid loss of lions in Kenya. According the the Kenya Wildlife Service, "Kenya has been losing 100 lions a year for the past seven years." Plus, there haven't been any wild lions in the past 20 years. This is a problem because if anymore lions are lost, they can soon become extinct. Also, there are several reasons this is happening. For example, there is habitat destruction, disease, and conflict with humans. In addition, the IUCN suggests that, "large lion populations of 50 to 100 prides are necessary to conserve genetic diversity and avoid inbreeding." Furthermore, Kenyans are poisoning prides, which is another reason they are depleting. However, those who kill lions are rarely punished for it. Additionally, Kenya is suffering a devastating drought, which isn't helping either. To add on, Kenyans lace cattle corpses with insecticide to poison the lions. Large areas of Kenya that held lions two decades ago are now almost drained of all wildlife. Frank, a wildlife biologist at a cat conservation group, concludes, "Only drastic action on many fronts-policy change, effective law enforcement, giving rural people an economic stake in their natural heritage, and a great deal of investment-will prevent the loss of wildlife in Africa." In my opinion, what these Kenyans are doing is wrong. They are wrong because if they keep hunting and killing them, the lions will become extinct. There are many animals in the world that have already suffered extinction, such as, the Dodo bird, the mammoth, and many more. Truthfully, there is no prize to endangering a species. Even though they win trophies, there is still the shame of harming a living animal. Although, some of the circumstances can't be helped, such as a drought, why add on to that by killing them?

Personally, I believe this act is simply barbaric and unnecessary. Scientists and other people are working hard to find a way to stop this, and keep the species alive, which I am extremely thankful for. It is a pleasure to know that there are people out there that are trying to make a difference. However, it is still quite a shame that people enjoy watching creatures like this suffer. I mean, how would they feel if these lions tried to kill them? How would they feel if the lions enjoyed seeing this? In my opinion, violence is not the answer when dealing with animals. Granted, not all of this is the Kenyans fault, but a great part of it is. I believe if everyone left well enough alone, there wouldn't have been this problem. Luckily, once again, there are people doing something about this lion loss. Overall, this is the information that I read in the article, "Kenya Losing Lions, And Fast" by Shanta Barley, and how I feel about it.

My article:

http://www.newscientist.com/article/dn17648-kenyas-lions-could-vanish-within-10-years.html

My picture:

http://earthhopenetwork.net/lion_african.jpg

October Sky

Recently, with my class, we watched October Sky. This movie is about a boy named Homer Hickam trying to fulfil his dream of building rockets. One night a Russian space craft called Sputnik flew overhead and this is what made Homer so fascinated by outer space. His father, Mr. Hickam, would rather have him working in the local mine like all of the other boys do when they're finished with school. However, Homer would instead want to finish school and go off to college earning a degree. At first, Homer and his friends try rocket building as a fun activity. Then, their teacher, Miss Riley, suggests that they go into the science fair. At first the boys just let that roll right off their backs but then they started to consider it. When Homer considered joining the science fair, he knew he would have to work harder on his math skills and the overall structure of the rocket. Therefore, him and his friends decided to get Quentin, the extremely smart student, to help them with this project. Unfortunately, throughout this movie, many difficult situations arise and cause many problems.





First of all, when the boys were building the rocket, it went shooting all over the place, causing it to explode unexpectedly in the wrong places. For example, they hit the mine. This caused Homer's father to be very angry, and they could not test their rocket on mine property anymore. But, they were not about to give up. The boys hiked eight miles off the mining camp to come to a barren place. There, they built a small hut so they could watch their rocket fly from a safe distance. In addition, during one of their rocket launches, the rocket soars into the air but they don't know where it landed. Later on, a forest fire occurs. The principal, Mr. Turner, gets the cops to arrest the four boys because he did not like their idea of rocket building to begin with. Plus, he thinks it's a dangerous and foolish activity to be doing. After Homer, Quentin, Roy, and O'Dell are told they can no longer progress with this, they think of a way to fight back. Quentin and Homer go into the woods and use their calculations to find where the rocket missile landed. When they found it, it proved that they were not the ones who set the forest fire. Furthermore, in Miss Riley's class, Homer went up to the blackboard and showed Mr. Turner, using math, that they were completely innocent and had nothing to do with the forest fire. Unable to argue, Mr. Turner agreed to let the boys begin working again. However, during all of this commotion, Mr. Hickam still disapproved of Homer joining the science fair. Homer still did not want to do mining because there were many health dangers. You could get black lung disease or worse. Although he was good at it, his heart wasn't into it. Finally, when Homer goes to the science fair in another state, he is excited and ready to win. He set up his table and was ready to go. Unfortunately, the next day when he came into the gymnasium, his display was gone. Homer had two days until he had to show the judges what he brought. He called his family on the phone and told them what happened and they said they'd bring him another model in time for the presentation. Exactly as they said, Homer received the model just in time, impressing the judges and winning first prize. Nobody would've guessed that a boy from the little town of Coalwood would make it big in the science field. Even though Mr. Hickam was upset that Homer chose science over mining, he eventually became proud of his son for what he had accomplished.





Second of all, the character education traits, CARES, (cooperation, assertion, respect, empathy, and self-control), were a big part of this film. For example, the boys showed cooperation because they all worked together to build a rocket that would shoot up into the sky for miles. Plus, assertion was showed in this movie because Mr. Turner banned the boys from working on their rockets and showed he had the power to do that. Also, respect was showed because whenever Mr. Hickam would start to get angry at Homer for what he was doing Homer would automatically listen and do what he was asked. Additionally, empathy was not displayed in October Sky by Mrs. Hickam because she said she wouldn't even shed a tear if her husband was going to get killed in the rough conditions at the mines. Lastly, self-control was not shown by Mr. Hickam because he would yell at Homer for not joining the mines like every other boy in Coalwood.





In my opinion, the movie October Sky would be a great movie for any person to see. It would be a great film because it teaches you that it is possible to accomplish anything. Even if you're parents want you to go in another direction you should do what you feel will make you successful. You should be the commander of your own life and can achieve anything. This movie has greatly impacted my perspective and I will take message in extreme pride.

I received my picture from: http://www.horreur.net/img/October_Sky_aff.jpg

Response: Turner's Syndrome

After reading about Turner's Syndrome, it makes me want doctors to find a cure. This disease is very serious and makes me feel sorry for the women who have it. However, there are many other sicknesses out there, but this is one that I feel should be researched more. These poor women have to go through many experiences that no woman should have to go through. In my opinion, the government should give more funds to the hospitals to do research. Or, they could give more money to help fund the therapy that's required. Still, it would be better to find a cure to help save their lives because most of the women only live to 17 if they're lucky. Plus, it's a shame to see their families have to see them go through this because they never asked for it. In addition, the family would have to worry about the cost of all the hospital bills and worry about their loved one. Therefore, that is another reason why the government should help with funding and bills. If the government were to help out it would probably be easier to deal with the situation. Overall, Turner's Syndrome is a serious, life-threatening disease and it is very unfortunate if someone has it. However, with doctor and government help, that will definitely contribute to the cause very much.

Turner's Syndrome Blog:
http://www.textqueen96.blogspot.com/

Picture:
http://www.biology.iupui.edu/biocourses/N100/images/XXXFemale.gif

Sickle Cell Anemia!

Recently, I researched about the Sickle Cell Anemia disease. When I found the results, it was pretty interesting. I had no idea what this disease was until now. Sickle Cell Anemia was founded in 1910. Also, it is an inherited lifelong disease. Therefore, you have it when you are born. One treatment for this disease is a Bone Marrow Transplant. Plus, the Sickle cells die after 10 to 20 days. This was interesting because I thought it was a lifelong disease. However, the Sickle cells might be able to reproduce. In addition, when I saw how many people this disease effected, it was quite shocking. It turns out, that millions of people worldwide have Sickle Cell Anemia disease. To be more specific, Hispanics and African Americans mostly have it. Additionally, Greece, Turkey, Italy, the Arabian Peninsula, India, South America, and Central America are effected by this. Furthermore, the genes that cause Sickle Cell Anemia disease are mutated by one amino acid. There are also ways to help find ways to treat this illness. For example, you can increase your research on folic acid and intravenous hydration. Overall, learning about Sickle Cell Amenia disease helped me better understand what causes it and how we can help to find a cure.

I found all this information from:
http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/dci/Diseases/Sca/SCA_WhatIs.html

http://www.innvista.com/health/ailments/anemias/sickhist.htm

Picture: http://adultstemcellawareness.files.wordpress.com/2007/10/sickle-cell.jpg

My Roller Coaster Website

The Drop

Autism and it's Mysteries

In the article I read today, it talks about autism, it's mysteries, and a story of three triplet boys who were diagnosed with it. These three boys, Hunter, Nicholas, and Zachary Gaston, were all born happy and healthy. But then, when the boys were about eighteen months old, something changed. For example, Zachary wouldn't socialize and he always kept to himself. Also, Hunter would roam around the house at night and scream at the top of his lungs. In addition, Nicholas just stopped talking completely. Their parents were very concerned about this condition and notified their pediatrician immediately. However, their doctor said, "she (their mother, Lynn) was overreacting and they should wait and see,". But, doctors say that it is best to find out if children have autism early so they have a better chance of treating it. There was also another question the Gastons kept asking themselves which was, "Where is the trigger?". They've been asking this question because both parents looked through their family history and found no trace of autism. Some parents believe the trigger is from thimerosal which is a preservative in childhood vaccines. They believe this because after their children were given these vaccines they were diagnosed with autism. However, most medical experts highly doubt that is true because this chemical was removed from all vaccines but autism cases are still rising. Fortunately, despite these theories, the Gastons are going to always stay dedicated to their sons care. Both parents even sold their house in order to pay bills for therapies and doctors. Additionally, Randy Gaston, their father, says, "The one thing that he (Zachary) has to know for the rest of his life is that I did everything for him. That's what it comes down to. I love him,". In my opinion, this article is interesting and it helps me become more aware of what people go through with having autistic children and what some parents believe causes it. Both of these parents have struggled with doctors telling them to wait and see what happens when their triplets are older, and it turns out, all three boys were officially diagnosed with autism at the age of four. But, they have kept their heads held high and persevered through what seems like a never ending battle. Now, Nicholas, Zachary, and Hunter are going to therapists and doctors to help them so they can become as capable of things as they can. All in all, this is what I read today in my article and how I feel about it.

I found my article from:

http://www.cnn.com/2008/HEALTH/conditions/03/31/autism.main/index.html

I found my picture from:

http://www.tariareed.com/blog/uploaded_images/AutismPuzzle-703082.gif

For S.S: Middlesex Schools Raise Test Scores and Spirits!

In the article I read today, Middlesex County is trying to raise test scores for various schools. For example, one of them is Mommouth Junction. In this school, the students have a friendly competition and answer many questions on Study Island. Study Island is a website designed to help students study for state tests and improve their scores. According to the New Jersey Assessment of Knowledge and Skills tests last year, "100 percent of the fourth-graders at Mommouth Junction School scored proficient in language arts and science--among the best in Middlesex County,". However, there are also other schools that are trying to raise their test scores. One of them is Lynn Crest, a K-5 school in Woodbridge. Nearly 79 percent of their fourth-grade students scored above proficient in math at their school. This was able to happen because they started an "Everyday Math" program three years ago and it's been helpful and effective ever since. Furthermore, in East Brunswick, the students have steadily progressed with proficiency in the past years because they take numerous assessments throughout the year to make sure they are prepared for the NJASK. They also believe that this gives them a chance to focus on individual children and their own specific needs. In my opinion, these strategies are very good and will most definitely improve test scores. I believe this because in the article most of the schools have had 75-80 percent of kids getting proficient or more because of these helpful, motivating, pre-tests and skills practice activities. All in all, this is what was in the article I read today and how I feel about it.

I received the article from:

http://www.nj.com/news/ledger/middlesex/index.ssf?/base/news-4/1233811672202480.xml&coll=1

I received my picture from:

https://www.measinc.com/NJASK/Images/NJASK_120px_tall.jpg

For Social Studies: Iraqi Women Run for Office!

In the article I read today, it talked about 4,000 Iraqi women in Baghdad running for office. These women are running for office because they have been neglected for many years and want to be a part of the government. According to the International Crisis Group, parties must have their third chair for a woman. Also, a woman named Nibras al-Mamuri, says that, "I've entered a battlefield where women have to prove they are competent, I have to forget about fear." In my opinion, that statement was very powerful because it shows that this woman, a canidate for this event, wants to prove that women can do anything and that she cannot be afraid. In addition, al-Mamuri thinks that Saturday's vote will improve women's position in society. Furthermore, activists say that women were pushed back into the Dark Ages of covering their faces from the public and being neglected because of the rule of Sadam Hussein. Another woman, named Rissala Khalid, said that, "Iraqi women form the core of society," which means that these women are more important than most people would assume because they are taking a chance at running for office and are able to come up with ideas for the government. She also believes that they have potential of becoming a great part of the government. In my opinion, this event is extremely important because I too, believe that these women of Baghdad can become a great part in the government. For example, they could help work out problems in their country and avoid having more fighting and killing take place. Additionally, their decisions could potentially help their society overall and make people more happy and more considerate. All in all, this is what I read in this article today and how I feel about it.

I found my article and picture from:

http://www.cnn.com/2009/WORLD/meast/01/31/iraq.women/index.html?iref=newssearch

Peanut Butter Recall!!

In the article I recently read, it talked about companies recalling their peanut butter products. Many items such as cookies, crackers, ice cream, and candy have been removed from shelves at stores because of contamination. Out of all 50 states, 43 of them were effected by this. These peanut butter treats are causing salmonella typhimurium and have sickened over 486 people and have killed six. It says that foods such as, "Famous Amos' peanut butter cookies, Wal-Mart's peanut butter fudge, Little Debbie sandwich crackers, Blanton's Peanut Butter Sticks, Meijer's peanut butter cup ice cream, and Austin's cheese and peanut butter crackers have been recalled,". Also, the first illnesses of this were reported on September 8th. In addition, the FDA was going through peanut plants and checking the condition of them so they can find out which plant is the source of the bad peanuts. However, they found one in Georgia that had some violations, and it was one of the sources of this problem. In my opinion, this is a very serious situation because peanut butter is found in almost all of the foods we consume. I also think it is very serious because the article says, "The average American consumes more than six pounds of peanuts and peanut butter products each year,". Therefore, many people were effected by this recall. Plus, I believe it was very smart for the FDA to search different peanut processing plants so they could find the place that was manufacturing bad peanuts and help avoid more people from getting sick. All in all, this was what the article I read said about the recalled peanuts and my opinion about it.

I found all my information from:

http://www.cnn.com/2009/HEALTH/01/23/peanut.probe.salmonella/index.html

Obama Inauguration!

From what I have seen on T.V. and what I have read, this inaguration is one of the most meaningful ones yet in American history. It is extremely meaningful because our first African-American president has been sworn in and a change has come. This man's name is Barrack Hussein Obama. From what I have read, he is going to try to make change in the U.S. for the better. However, he is going to do it differently than the other presidents. Obama feels that the challenges we are facing are definitely a problem, and no, they will not be met soon, but they will definitely be met and will be fixed. He also wants people to know that he is very grateful of his position and will try to be the best president he can be through the help of others. Being our 44th president of the U.S. and the 56th inauguration, this is sure to be a milestone in all of history throughout the world.

In the first article I read, it talked about what happened at the inauguration and included a few quotes from Obama. According to what I found in this piece of information, there are many parts to the inauguration and many other events that take place besides swearing in the president. For example, Obama had to go to ten inaugural balls before he could spend one, single night in the White House. Also, there is a parade that celebrates the coming of a new president and the change he is willing to bring. In Obama's speech, he said, "Today, I say to you the that the challenges we face are real, they are serious and they are many. They will not be met easily or in a short span of time. But know this, America, they will be met,". In my opinion, this means that Obama knows there are many problems that need to be fixed in America, and he knows he's going to help change them. But, they aren't going to be changed as quickly as some people would like. All in all, this is my analysis of the first article, however, I also have an analysis for another article that I have read.

In this article, the main idea was about what Obama did on the day of the inauguration and some of the quotes from his speech. First of all, Obama led a parade of 10,000 people down Pennsylvania Avenue to the White House. There were many floats, marching bands, members of the military, and Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts marching down the street in the parade. Obama also attended a lunch with members of congress. Following a tradition, Obama, Biden and their wives began worship at St. John's Episcopal Church near the White House. Furthermore, one quote that Obama said that really hit me was, "We will not apoligize for our way of life, nor will we waver in its defense, and for those who seek to advance their aims by inducing terror and slaughtering innocents, we say to you now that our spirit is stronger and cannot be broken; you cannot outlast us, and we will defeat you,". This quote struck me hard because it is about Obama's opinion about the terrorist situation and what he believes is the right thing to do. Overall, this is what was written in the second article and next will be my opinion about the issue and any questions I may still have after reading the articles.

In my opinion, out of all 44 presidents, I have to say that Obama is going to be one that nobody can forget easily. Now I am not just saying this because he is the first African-American president, but he is one of the more down-to-earth presidents. By this I mean that he sees issues for what they really are a realizes that they cannot be solved with just a wave of a magic wand. They are going to take time. And he is not the only one that is going to help solve them, he's going to need support and cooperation from the people around him. To me, when running for president of the U.S., you have to realize that there are many issues in the world, not all of them are going to be solved in one day, and many of them may not be solved period, but you have to have faith and patience with yourself, the world, and people around you to make this happen. Additionally, I have a question about the inauguration and other events that occured on this special day. The question I have is that did Obama's daughters come to the worship at the church? Or was it strictly for adults only? In conclusion, that was that summary of what I read, my analysis of the two articles, my opinion of the topic, and the question that was still lingering in my head.

I found my first article from:

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/21/us/politics/21inaug.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1&ref=todayspaper

I found my second article from:

http://www.nj.com/news/ledger/jersey/index.ssf?/base/news-12/1232515611169010.xml&coll=1&thispage=3

I found my picture from:

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/21/us/politics/21inaug.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1&ref=todayspaper