Spire Crier -- Feb 2015

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Recycling projects planned for fifth grade

By Nina Chehab Have you ever seen a bottle cap or straw wrapper on the floor? Have you ever seen plastic bags in the ocean or trash on the ground?

Well, that all revolves around our reason for recycling. Recycling is a way of preventing the world from becoming an unhealthy and ugly place.

What are some things that you can recycle? There is a variety. You can recycle newspapers, bottle caps, plastic bags, plastic water bottles, cardboard, paper, even glass and tinfoil. What happens to the things you recycle?

Everything that is recyclable you have to put in a recycling bin. All those things can be turned into totally different items.

If you think that creating things out of recycled material is awesome, there is special news.

Mrs. Rosen, 5th grade’s awesome science teacher, is planning a project with bottle caps and coffee sticks. These will end up as really cool items, though the details haven’t been released yet.

Remember, if you have an item that you know can be recycled, why not go ahead and make something out of it? Be as creative as you can. Find little things and create rings, bracelets, decorations for your toys, etc. You’ll be surprised at what you can do. If you want to learn more about recycling, go online and discover what can be made.

Small wrenches can be turned into tables, M&M’S wrappers into purses, a newspaper into a chandelier and many more!

Did you know that if you didn’t recycle and you threw your plastic items on the ground it could hurt other living things AND the Earth?

That’s right. If you throw an empty plastic bag into the ocean, a turtle can mistake it for a jellyfish and eat it. That turtle can die.

Throwing your bottle caps on the ground doesn’t only hurt animals it pollutes the Earth. Pollution is when the environment gets contaminated with garbage, and smoke. It can turn the world into an ugly mess.

So, next time you see a wrapper on the floor, go ahead and recycle and reuse.

You’re helping the Earth grow healthier by saving its environment.

Volume 27 Issue 3 February 2015

Inside this issue:

Mystery Teachers and Creatures

2

Animal News

3

Ask Kiki

4

Student Notebook

6

Tech Avenue

7

Student Polls

8

Travels with Tom and Tia

9

Sports News

10

Student Fiction

11

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The Spire Crier

This mystery teacher likes green peppers on pizza

By Nina Chehab Good luck figuring out this mystery teacher!

Her favorite food is homemade lasagna.

Her favorite quote is: “The road to success is paved with bricks of hard work and failure!”

Her favorite pizza topping is green peppers.

She likes to teach Literature and History.

Her favorite animal is a dog.

Her favorite television show is The Big Bang Theory.

Her favorite holiday is Christmas!

The answer is on the back of this issue. Can you guess who this is?

The mystery creature has stripes and red eyes The mystery creature does something to his skin. Can you guess what it is?

By Laura Furniss-Roe Now there are not many clues, so think carefully!

He lives in the Environmental Science Room.

He does something to his skin. (If I told you it would be obvious!)

He’s always hiding. He often lies in his water bowl to cool off.

He has red eyes.

He has stripes. He eats mice. He uses his tongue to smell.

He made an underground area in his cage. His name begins with F. Can you guess who he is? The answer is on the back page.

Science News: Tardigrade and axolotl help humans

Tardigrade

Axolotl

By Matthew De La Riva and Lulu Infante Scientists have discovered the possibility that humans could live forever by studying the jellyfish and the axolotl. Basically, these creatures can live forever because they have a rare trait call neoteny that means they retain larval features throughout life.

The jellyfish can become a baby again and again if it senses it is in danger.

The animal called the axolotl can regenerate almost any body part. Its special genes can be used to regenerate limbs. Scientists are seeking answers as to how this can be used to help injured or sick humans.

Another creature being studied is the tardigrade. It can change forms to survive without water and can live through almost anything. Its microscopic size hides it from most predators.

These guys can survive in boiling water, solid ice, and the intenseness of space. They can survive a decade in a desert, without a drop of water to drink, or in the deepest waters of the sea.

The tardigrades are also known as moss piglets and water bears. And guess what? Tardigrades have small daggers, or sharp knife-like parts in their mouths to also help protect them. They have outlived the dinosaurs!

Volume 27 Issue 3

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Cats are so smart they can learn to use the toilet

By Maddie Wagshul and Rosie Infante We love cats so we found out some cat facts that you might not know. Here they are:  Blue-eyed cats have a tendency to be deaf.  The biggest domestic litter of kittens born was 19 kittens, but sadly only 15 of them survived.  Like us, cats have dreams, and those dreams start when they are one week old.  The beating of a cat’s heart is double to the beating of a human’s heart at 110 to 140 beats in a minute  Cats are so full of skills and smarts that they can learn to use the toilet.  In 1995 in Denmark, a cat with natural green fur was discovered. Its fur was green due to high copper levels in the water.  In North America, CATS ARE MORE POPULAR THAN DOGS AS HOUSEHOLD PETS! Wow! Around 73 million cats and 63 million dogs are kept as pets.  Most kitties do not have eyelashes!  Some cats can actually survive falls from heights of about 65 feet, or 780 inches.  Cats have the ability to hiss, but some choose not to.  In ancient Egypt, the smuggling of cats was a crime that could be punished by death.  Cats can pick up the sound of your voice.  Meows are directed to humans, not to talk to other cats. If they communicate with other cats they usually hiss or spit.

Winter the Dolphin swims with an artificial tail

By Rosie Infante Winter the Dolphin was found on December 15, 2005 by a fisherman in Clearwater, Florida. Her tail was tangled in the ropes of a crab trap, so the fisherman called the Clearwater Marine Hospital (CMH) and they cut off the ropes and brought Winter to the hospital as quickly as possible. Winter’s tail fell off a few days later because of dead tissue cells.

So then there was a problem: If Winter couldn’t swim, how would she be able to survive? She started using a swimming motion like a shark, moving her tail from side to side. And everyone in CMH thought Winter would be okay.

But, unfortunately, the side-to-side motion was doing damage to Winter’s spine. This could lead to paralysis—the loss of voluntary movement in a body part, caused by injury or disease of the nerves, brain, or spinal cord. Luckily, prosthetic designer Kevin Carl was able to make Winter a new tail.

It wasn’t easy to do this. Dolphin skin is very sensitive. The sock tail was rubbing on Winter’s skin. A few months later, Carl created “Winter’s gel.” It was soft, and is now used for people in need of a prosthetic body part. The invention for Winter now helps many impaired people.

Winter will never be released because as she grows she will need new prosthetics. The hospital is now known as the Clearwater Marine Aquarium and the workers there rescue, rehab, and release marine animals.

A cat meows to communicate with humans but not with other cats.

The formula invented for Winter’s tail can be used to help injured humans.

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Many students ask Kiki for help and advice Dear Kiki, I am going on a long vacation and will miss some school. I am worried I won’t be able to be caught up in all my classes. Any tips?

From, HelpNeededMoving39Tips

There are Ask Kiki boxes in the office and in two of the fifth grade classrooms. Kiki is ready to help if you have a question.

Dear HelpNeededMoving39Tips, Hi! I know how it feels to be going on a long trip and worrying about missing schoolwork. The best piece of advice I could give you is to ask all of your teachers for the work you will miss ahead of time. Then you can do it when you get back or, if you have time, you can do it before you leave or maybe you can do it on the way there!

Dear Kiki, I am having trouble studying for my tests and I think it’s getting to a habit. Also, I have been getting B’s and C’s. Please help!

Dark Vader 121 Dear Dark Vader 121, When it comes to studying, I have a great method that you could use. First, read over your work to get familiar with the topic/topics. Then, you read it over again for comprehension. Then, read it one last time for memorization. This way, you’ll really understand the material and can ace your tests.

Dear Kiki, I am having trouble standing up for myself. What do I do?

From, 02Teacher11#**3<3 Dear 02Teacher11#**3<3, I, too, have trouble standing up for myself sometimes. I can never really defend myself like other people do. They make it seem easy, but it’s really not. If you ever have trouble standing up for yourself, let’s say you’re getting bullied by someone, you should gather up all of your courage, have confidence, and say “No one has control over me. If that’s how you feel about me, then fine. I don’t care what other people think about me. I’m unique and special and the only person who needs to know that, is me.” Don’t worry if you’re a bit shy. If you think it over in your head, I know that you alone can muster up enough bravery and confidence and speak out for yourself and who you are.

Dear Kiki, I feel like the same people are always in charge. I want to see someone else take leadership! What should I do?

Love, Change407

Volume 27 Issue 3

Page 5

Here are more tips from Kiki Dear Change407, I’ve always seen the same people in charge. I, too, want someone new to take the wheel in group projects, and other activities. My best advice to you would be to ask the person who’s always in charge if you could have a turn doing something, or lead a group in an activity. Try to be as polite as possible so there won’t be a huge fight about it. I hope this helps!

Best of luck, Kiki Dear Kiki, I am learning how to multiply, but I don’t understand how and my teacher expects us to know for the test on Thursday. HELP!!

Love, Peace2212 Dear Peace2212, Multiplying is not the easiest thing to learn, trust me, but my advice would be study hard each day for upcoming tests on multiplying. If you still have trouble understanding, you should talk to your teacher about it. Even if she expects you to know it, it doesn’t mean that you can’t ask for help. I’m sure that this will solve your problem with multiplying. Another way to learn is to make flashcards with the problem on one side and the solution on the other. This is a good way to memorize. And if you make the cards yourself you are already memorizing.

Dear Kiki, A girl is always in front and I don’t know what to do.

From, Weirdcow1234123462*#// Dear Weirdcow1234123462*#//, If a girl is always in front of the line, you should ask her if you could have a turn leading your class to a special area classroom. If that doesn’t work, you should ask your teacher if you could go in front. You’re all going to the same place, even if you can’t be at the front every time.

Dear Kiki, I am failing class, what do I do?!

Love, Pig126Ft=< Dear Pig126Ft=<, Failing a class never feels good. If you are stuck on something, you should study hard each day when you come home from school. Make sure you know about everything the teacher says. If you go over worksheets several times, I know you’ll understand everything and do better in that class.

If you have a problem, always try to be as polite as possible when you are working out a solution.

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Student Notebook: Coping with the loss of a pet

Laura’s dog Gemma was 11 years old, that’s 77 in human years, when she died.

Try to remember all the happy times you had with your pet. It’s okay to cry when you lose someone you love.

By Laura Furniss-Roe Have you ever lost a special furry, feathered or scaly friend? It’s hard, isn’t it? You feel like crying all the time and you miss that pet dearly. You regret those moments when you ignored them or seemed to be mean to them. You miss your puppy jumping into your arms after school. You miss your kitty brushing your legs as you walk by. You miss watching your bird balance on his perch, squawking a happy tune.

You miss it all and you remember that that pet will forever remain in your heart, but how do you just cope?

Here is what I am finding helps.

First, remember all the happy times you have shared with your pet. It will warm you up with joyfulness. Don’t stay on the sad, gloomy side.

Go through pictures and videos to keep the memories.

Remember that you must accept being upset, but your pet will always be special to you.

Cry it out. It’s always okay to cry and when you do, you might even feel better. Flush out the sadness.

Talk to someone about your feelings. Spill it and you will be relieved. Getting the thoughts out can make you feel better.

The Most important thing to remember is that your pet will always be with you. She or he may not be by your side but they will surely be in your heart.

So for now, take the time to give your pet the best life ever, before they might just have to leave you. Pets really are the greatest companions ever and we all love them very much!

One billion Valentine’s Day cards are sent each year

By Laura Orban In a few days many people all over the U.S. and the world will celebrate a day of love and friendship. Did you know over 50 million roses are given for Valentine's Day each year?

Here are some more facts about Valentine’s Day: Valentine’s Day is celebrated around the world even though in most of the countries it is not a holiday. Many years ago men would draw names of women from a box and the couple would be paired until the next Valentine’s Day. More than 36 million heart-shaped boxes of chocolate are sold for Valentine's Day each year. About one billion Valentine's Day cards are exchanged worldwide each year. That's the largest seasonal card-sending occasion of the year, next to Christmas.

The Italian city of Verona, where Shakespeare's lovers Romeo and Juliet lived, receives about 1,000 letters addressed to Juliet every Valentine's Day. The oldest surviving love poem to date was written in a clay tablet from the times of the Sumerians around 3500 BC. Based on retail statistics, about three per cent of pet owners will give Valentine’s Day gifts to their pets. You can find out more at www.stvalentinesday.org.

Volume 27 Issue 3

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Surviving in the wild requires special tools and skill

By Max Sanchez, Felipe de Cardenas, and Victor Quirch There are many places in the world that are very tough to survive in but one of the toughest is in the frigid taiga, 3,000 miles east of Moscow.

It is in the heart of Siberia and there are only a few ways to survive in this place. The temperature in winter falls below minus 60 degrees Fahrenheit. The lowest recorded was minus 90. Yet, there is a town there called Verkhoyansk. And tourists are actually travelling there to try out their survival skills.

Just imagine if you were to try to survive camping in this place. Here is what you would need to bring:      

Cutlery—In order to survive the frigid cold you must have fillet knives, axes, pocket knives, and maybe a bow and arrow to hunt.

Shelter—For shelter you should bring an ultimate cold weather tent and extra stakes.

Bedding—Since it is so cold you should bring a very thick sleeping bag and maybe a few extra blankets.

Cooking needs—Some of the things you need to bring along with you to cook are a water jug, a lighter and a roasting stick.

Clothing—In order to survive the frigid weather you have to bring boots, a big jacket, long socks, ski pants, rain gear, fleece, and warm sleeping clothing.

Personal Items—If you are going to Siberia for a long time you should bring a toothbrush, razor, towels, toothpaste, sunscreen, and a lantern.

These are just some of the necessary tools that you should bring if you ever go camping in Siberia. To learn more about food supplies and tips for surviving in extreme cold, check out the many winter camping websites online.

Tech Avenue: Create your own avatar in Avachara

By Madison Munroe Have you ever wanted to make your own cartoon, but you looked on the Internet and there’s just not a good reliable site? Well, I have found a way to solve that problem.

Avachara.com is a cartoon making website that is very enjoyable and has many different options to choose from. I think it is such a cool site. With this site, making cartoons is easy and fun.

Fifth grade student Ava-Riley Miles said, “It’s so fun to make a cartoon that actually looks like you.”

To make an avatar you first pick if you want your avatar to be a boy or a girl.

Then you decide the face, face color, eyes, eye color, nose, mouth, brow, brow color, hair and hair color. Then you can pick clothing.

They have clothes such as shirts, skirts, pants, shorts, dresses and more. You can also pick accessories like glasses, headbands and other cool accessories. You can also pick icons that your avatar can hold or things your avatar can be doing. Finally, you can pick a background and save it by clicking the camera below your avatar.

I hope you like this site. Have fun creating!

Surviving in the frigid cold wild of Siberia requires the right camping tools and very warm clothing.

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Student Poll: Favorite Valentine’s Day candy

By Laura Furniss-Roe Hello, everyone! Below, I have recorded a poll that I took about students’ favorite Valentine’s Day candy. Two candies tied in first – each with five votes – and those winners are dark chocolate and Sweethearts!

I myself voted for Kit Kat, but I guess that we all have our differences.

Please enjoy and have a Happy Valentine’s Day with lots of candy, cards and friendship!

In first place, Sweethearts and dark chocolate with five votes each. The candy with four votes was Hershey’s Kisses. Fun Dip had three votes. The candies with two votes each were Nerds, Smarties, Kit Kat and lollipops.

Other candies on the list each got one vote and they were pecan fudge, Skittles, M&M’S, Airheads, Jolly Rancher, peanut butter hearts and Laffy Taffy.

Student Poll: Which wall art do you like best?

We are so lucky to have beautiful art to walk by in our school halls each day.

By Yara Haddad Every day the students at St. Thomas walk by the preschool classrooms and see the Romero Britto wall art that was painted with the artist and students 10 years ago. They also walk by Rantz Hall and see the Carey Chen art wall.

Both walls are amazing! We asked the faculty, fifth grade and fourth grade students to answer a poll question: “Which wall do you like better, the Britto one or Carey Chen one?

Well, many people replied and the results were: Britto—58 and Carey Chen—44. So BRITTO WON! We are so lucky we get to have these beautiful artworks to look at every day at school.

Are you left-handed, right-handed or ambidextrous?

By Maddie Wagshul Have you ever wondered why some people are left-handed and some are right-handed? Well, it all depends on genetics. Of everyone who can write with their hands, the majority is right-handed.

Not as many people who are right-handed are also left-handed. Some people do not have one hand that overpowers the other, or they do not have a “Favorite Hand.” Actually, in the fifth movie of Harry Potter, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, they are taking these tests called O.W.L.s, and everybody is righthanded! Harry has always been right handed, even in the second book when he is writing in a journal. Also, when somebody is signing a document, they are too right handed!

Some people actually do not have a certain “Favorite Hand,” for these people are ambidextrous, meaning that their right and left hands do not overpower the opposite one.

Of the people who replied to my poll, four people from fifth grade were lefthanded, two people from fourth grade were left-handed, and only one person from fifth grade was ambidextrous.

Volume 27 Issue 3

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Travels with Tom and Tia: A visit to Turkey

By Maddie Wagshul and Yara Haddad “Where are we going again, Tia? Something like…Chicken?” Tom asked.

“TURKEY, TOM! TURKEY!!!” Tia shouted, a little too loud, so that people around her in the plane started looking at her.

“Chicken, Tia. Chicken.” Tom mocked her quietly. “Seriously?” Tia mumbled.

“Please fasten your seatbelts, passengers because we’re about to land. Keep in mind that there might be slight turbulence. Thank you for flying in Exotic Airlines. I hope you had a nice flight,” the Captain’s voice said.

“Finally! After, like, a million days,” Tia grumbled. “Oh, even I know that we haven’t been on a plane for a million days and I didn’t know until my tenth birthday that chickens had legs,” Tom retorted. “Anyway, are you excited for Turkey?” Tia asked as she took her lavender-flowered luggage out of the luggage compartment.

“What’s Turkey?” Tom asked.

“Turkey is a COUNTRY Asia and Europe,” Tia replied. “I dislike cold weather. But I guess it IS early February in Turkey and it IS a vacation...so I’ll deal with it,” Tia said about the cold weather as they walked out of the plane.

Mr. Puffy Fluffy Pinklepot, who was like their travel companion, was waiting for them at the airport. “Hello there, Miss Tia and Mister Tom,” said Mr. Puffy Fluffy Pinklepot. “’Sup there Mr. P.,” Tom greeted Mr. Puffy Fluffy Pinklepot. “Hello there, Mr. Puffy Fluffy Pinklepot. Your tie with the monkeys on it is looking delightful today! Tom! That was not a proper greeting! Say sorry and give him a proper greeting this time!” Tia whispered the last part to Tom. Luckily Mr. Puffy Fluffy Pinklepot did not hear the last part and adjusted his tie with a smile. “Thank you, Tia. That made my day. My niece, Rose, thinks it is ugly but I think not! Maybe we should go and get some Turkish food.

My other niece, Scarlett, loves Turkish food. In fact, it’s the only food my brother’s family eats, so whenever I go to their house I eat it. Although, it is unlucky if you dislike Turkish food. Did you know that Turkish food has lots of vegetables in it?” Tom made a look of disgust.

“There’s Yaprak Sarma. Wrapped vine leaves with a filling of rice, onion and spices like mint, currant, pepper and cinnamon. Rose loves it. Lahmacun is a pizza-like dish with a topping of meat and onions with spices on a thin dough. That’s my personal favorite.” Tom started giggling.

“What?!” Tia snapped. “I just thought that if Mr. P.’s brother has the same last name, Mr. P.’s nieces’ names are Rose Puffy Fluffy Pinklepot and Scarlett Puffy Fluffy Pinklepot! Hee hee!” Tom burst out in uncontrollable giggles.

Mr. Puffy Fluffy Pinklepot ignored the giggles. “I’m thinking maybe we should go to the Bodrum Castle. It’s really lovely.”

“Fine with me.” Tia said. “But I thought turkey was served with every meal here!” Tom whined. “Tia told me!”

“Um… no I don’t remember saying that. It’s not like I’d say that to convince you to come here. Oh, that would be crazy.

I definitely...didn’t...do that. Darn my honesty!” Tia muttered the last part under her breath as she looked at Mr. Puffy Fluffy Pinklepot’s skeptical look.

Dear Mom and Dad, Tom is driving me crazy! But that’s not going to stop me from having a good trip! Like you always tell me, have a good attitude in bad times! (Or was it Grandma who told me that? Hmm… anyway...)“Keep your face always toward the sunshine - and shadows will fall behind you.” by Walt Whitman! So I’m going to let the shadows of Tom fall behind ME! Love you to the moon and back times infinity, Your daughter (annoyed by her annoying twin brother Tom) Tia (continued on the back page)

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These Valentine’s Day riddles are filled with love

By Yara Haddad Valentine’s Day is a great holiday. These are some riddles for you to share with your family and friends! You can find more of these riddles at http:// www.primarygames.com/holidays/valentines/jokes.php

What do you call a very small Valentine?

A Valen-tiny!

Q: What did the stamp say to the envelope on Valentine's Day? A: “I'm stuck on you!”

Q: What travels around the world but stays in one corner?

A: A stamp Q: Why is lettuce the most loving vegetable?

A: Because it's all heart Q: What do squirrels give for Valentine's Day? A: Forget-me-nuts Q: Why did the banana go out with the prune?

A: Because it couldn't get a date.

Q: What did the caveman give his wife on Valentine's Day? A: Ughs and kisses Q: What did the paper clip say to the magnet?

A: “I find you very attractive.”

Q: What did the elephant say to his girlfriend?

A: “I love you a ton!”

Q: What did one pickle say to the other?

A: “You mean a great dill to me.”

Q: What do you call a very small Valentine?

A: A Valen-tiny Q: What did the light bulb say to the switch?

A: “You turn me on.”

Sports News: The latest on soccer transfers

By Rafa Urbina There have been many new and interesting soccer transfers lately. Here are some of the most important.

Mats Hummels to Manchester United Kevin De Bruyne to Manchester United David de Gea to Real Madrid Steven Gerrard to LA Galaxy Iker Casillas going to the MLS Wilfried Bony to Manchester City Frank Lampard to New York City FC David Villa going to New York City FC Fernando Torres went to Atlético de Madrid Gabriel Paletta goes to AC Milan

Volume 27 Issue 3

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Student Fiction: Grace’s Valentine

By Laura Furniss-Roe “Grace!” said Jennifer. “You’ve got a card!”

“Really?” asked 13-year-old Grace. Grace Smith was at school with her best friend Jennifer Cooper. Grace and Jennifer went to Pinewood Middle School in Miami, Florida. It was February 2nd and close to Valentine’s Day. Grace’s Mother had left her a card on top of her book bag.

“Oh right, Mother just came to give something to my teacher. Now let’s see that card…” Grace opened the card. Inside was a sweet little message from her dear Mother. “My dearest Grace,” Grace read aloud. “My Daughter, I want to thank you for your talent, your creations, your love, you humor, and for just being you! I love you very much. And Happy early Valentine’s Day! Love, Mother.”

“Nice!” said Jennifer. “Yeah,” Grace said. “But there’s more!”

Grace and Jennifer eyed a tiny little pocket near the bottom of the card. Grace drew a peculiar item from the pocket. It was a tiny little golden chain necklace holding a silk heart that showed one word in plain red thread. The thread stated Grace’s name neatly at the center of the heart. Grace smiled, running her finger down the velvety heart and putting it close to her chest. Then she asked Jennifer to clip the chain at the back of her neck.

Jennifer smiled too, but deep down inside Grace could tell that she was envious about the necklace.

“Oh, it’s beautiful! A great start to Mother’s business too!” Grace said after Jennifer had clipped the necklace. Grace’s Mother was starting a beautiful jewelry business called Silk Hearts. Grace would keep the necklace forever.

Out of the corner of her eye, she watched Jennifer sigh wearily. “Don’t worry, Jennifer, I’ll ask my Mother to make you one too.” With that comment, Jennifer’s face brightened up like the sunshine.

Now, later on into the month of February, Grace was at home making Valentines. It was Sunday the 12th of February and Grace was planning something special to bring to all her classmates for Valentine’s Day. She was going bake Macaroons to go along with her cards. They are a special little French treat that Grace wanted to try for a difference.

She gathered her ingredients that she had bought at the grocery store the day before. They included four large eggs for the whites, cater sugar, pure icing sugar, almond meal and gel food coloring. After preheating the oven, she mixed the egg whites and the sugar until the mixture became stiff. Then she added gel food coloring and mixed it some more. While mixing, her Mother wandered into the kitchen.

“I see that you are whipping up something special. What might you be making this time?” “Macaroons,” Grace said with her best French accent. “That sounds very interesting,” her Mother replied. “And good job on the accent.” Grace beamed as her Mother went back into the study to continue work on her business.

When the Macaroons were ready, Grace placed each of them in little pink-labeled bags covered in hearts and slipped little cards in with them. She put the best Macaroon in Jennifer’s bag.

It was finally Valentine’s Day! Grace ran into her class with a grocery bag full of her Valentines. The teacher, Mrs. Dolce explained that they would be passing out Valentines during homeroom at the end of the day. Grace couldn’t wait for the day to end.

As the hours dragged on Grace thought about the Macaroons. She couldn’t wait to dig into the Macaroon that she had prepared especially for herself! She had of course tried the Macaroons before she had placed them in the bags. Either way, she couldn’t of kept herself from sinking her teeth into that delicious soft cookie with a creamy inside and the sprinkle of coconut flavor and just the entire pink delicious round sweet treat and…

“Grace? Grace! Grace pay attention! Stop daydreaming! Well, do you want an F on your test?” Grace’s teacher scolded Grace. Grace hung her head low and tried to push the wonderful daydream of the amazing pink Macaroons out of her brain for later.

The end of the day finally arrived! Grace dashed around the room handing out her Valentines carefully and warning the other students to open them carefully, until she had passed out all her Valentines and went slowly back to her seat, out of breath, to open her Valentines.

A red sparkly card with pink hearts, ooh! Homemade cookies! What else? Well, there were chocolate hearts and…a card from…Brandon?! Brandon was a cute boy with shaggy brown bangs in Grace’s grade. All the girls loved him. But, her? Grace Amelia Smith? Brandon would give a card to her? Now, this she had to tell Jennifer. Grace got up and ran over to Jennifer, dragging her back to her desk. They opened the card together. Inside were a chocolate heart and a message to Grace.

Dear Grace, Happy Valentine’s Day! I know you’re probably really surprised to get a card from me but the truth is I kinda like you. (continued on next page)

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(Grace’s Valentine continued) You’re funny, smart, and your Mom makes the most amazing jewelry! So, would you like to hang out sometime?

Thanks if you can, Brandon Grace’s mouth dropped open. So did Jennifer’s. “He asked you out!” Jennifer said, squeezing Grace’s arm tightly. “Yeah, I can see that,” Grace replied, smiling.

She then spotted Brandon out of the corner of her eye. She just caught him taking a bite into her Macaroon. He nodded and then turned and gave a thumbs-up to Grace. She blushed. Then when Brandon saw Grace’s card from him opened on her desk he blushed back. Grace nodded. Brandon smiled wide.

Grace was going to hang with Brandon! Deep down inside, she really thought about him. He was really nice to her. She suddenly realized the signs. He helped her immediately when Grace dropped her books. He always greeted her in the mornings.

Brandon had made his move, and Grace had replied. She took a deep breath and Jennifer squealed. She had never been asked out before and she was going to have to prepare pretty majorly.

When Grace got home, she told her Mother the news about Brandon. She also gave her a Macaroon and a card. Grace’s Mother gave her a beautiful Silk Hearts bracelet that said, “Believe and you will accomplish great things” on a small silver chain.

The heart was a velvety orange with dark pink thread. Grace hugged her Mother and then sat down on the couch with her to talk about the whole “asked out” issue. Her Mother suggested that she should make the ‘date’ be something casual like lunch in the park, and that she should invite someone like Jennifer to prepare and comfort her.

So taking her Mother’s advice, Grace decided that that was exactly what she was going to do.

The day came. February 25th. The day Grace and Brandon planned to hang out. Jennifer had come round to Grace’s house to help her get ready. She had literally forced Grace to have a fashion show. Grace ended up wearing a casual outfit. She walked to the park with Jennifer. She carried a small box of four Macaroons for her and Brandon. She also carried sandwiches. Brandon was bringing the rest of their lunch.

When they reached the gate, Jennifer squeezed her hand, spotted Brandon, and without thinking blurted out “Meep!” Grace stared at Jennifer and raised her eyebrow. Jennifer burst into hysterical giggles. After Grace had calmed her down, Jennifer tried to stop embarrassing Grace and made a smart move of letting go of Grace’s hand, waving and holding up a pair of crossed fingers.

Grace gave a forced smile, took another deep breath and left all comfort of Jennifer.

“Here I go,” thought Grace.

The “date” went well. Brandon and Grace had a great time. Grace was nervous for their future though. She couldn’t really begin to imagine all the love talk and kissing! Ugh. Though Grace was nervous, she had this floating feeling, and then she thought positive. What if this all meant good things? She did have the right to leave his side whenever she felt like it.

As she met Jennifer back by the gate she told her everything and how she felt. Jennifer gave her the same answer. “Have confidence and you might just enjoy the experience.” This was only the beginning. Hand-in-hand, the girls strolled off together into the afternoon sun, comfortable and thoughtful, yet happier than they could imagine.

Student Opinion: We should be happy we live in a country of freedoms

By Jack Silva and Laura Orban In North Korea the people do not have as much freedom as we do in the U.S. In North Korea the people cannot leave the country without permission from the regime’s government. They also cannot criticize the regime of leader Kim Jong-un. If they do, they have to disappear out of society and they are sent to a prison camp. They are also beaten.

Recently, the company Sony was hacked by North Korea. The government there did not want the U.S. movie The Interview released because the leaders thought the comedy movie was a threat. Even though the plot of the movie was meant as a satire, the North Korean regime wanted to shield its people from the sarcastic humor.

After the hack of employee emails, The Interview was released late because of the threats. The government of North Korea did not want it released at all.

But we did not let them control us because we are a free country. Now The Interview movie has been liberated and it has been bought and rented millions of times.

We can’t take for granted that we live in a free country with free speech.

Volume 27 Issue 3

Page 13

Student Fiction: The Snatgon

By Maddie Wagshul “So… ready to get your new pet, Lily?” Lilyblue’s father asked.

“I think so,” said Lilyblue, or Lily for short, as the snow crunched under her feet.

They walked into the pet shop. “Hi there! I’m Lucky, the owner of the shop!” a lady greeted them. “Who are you?” she asked, looking at Lily.

“Me? Oh, um, I’m Lilyblue. But you can call me Lily. But you don’t have to,” Lily replied quickly.

“Hm… Miss Lily? What sort of pet do you want?” Lucky asked. Lily didn’t get a chance to answer as Lucky rushed off saying, “I have the PERFECT pet!!!”

Lily and her father ran after Lucky. Lucky carefully got something that looked like a snake with a cat’s tail and cat legs.

“What…in….the world….is that?!” Lily whispered. “A Snatgon!!!” Lucky exclaimed. “And today 50 percent off! Poor little fellow has nobody to buy him.” “Sure,” said Lily. So, after that Lily had a new pet, a Snatgon.

“You sure this thing’s safe?” Lily asked on the car ride home. “Yes. Why?” asked her father. “Because it’s spitting fire,” Lily replied.

Lily’s emerald-green eyes filled with curiosity as she watched the Snatgon. Finally, they arrived at their townhouse and Lily pulled off her boots. She shook some snow out of her red hair and walked into her room, carrying the Snatgon.

“First off, you need an actual name. Not just Snatgon. What about Patriot?” Lily said. Patriot stared at her and made a grunting noise. “I’ll take that as a yes,” replied Lily to the grunt.

Next, she went on her slow computer and typed in her password. She clicked on Google and typed in “How to care for your Snatgon” and amazingly, there was a result. She wrote down notes in her notebook: HOW TO CARE FOR A SNATGON Play with him every day after school. (Play as you would with a cat.)

Give him a cage to sleep and feed in. Use a snake cage.

A Snatgon understanda English so talk to it in English.

If the Snatgon grunts, it is happy.

If the Snatgon breathes fire, it is grumpy or uncomfortable.

To control the fire, pet the Snatgon on its tail.

Snatgons love to eat chicken.

THEY NEED BATHS EVERY DAY! “I knew you were happy with the name Patriot!” Lily told Patriot. Patriot grunted. “GU?” he asked. “What?!” Lily asked.

“MUG GU?” Patriot repeated. “Huh?” Patriot pointed at Lily with his tail. “Oh… my name?” Lily asked. Patriot nodded. “Lily. My name is Lily,” Lily told him. “GEELY,” Patriot repeated. “GEELY IGGY. GUG UG GOOH,” Patriot grunted. “Oh! Um… hi. Yes, I’m having a good day. What about you?” A grunt replied.

“Lily?” Lily heard a voice. “Yes, Dad?” Lily replied to her father. “Who are you talking to?” Dad asked.

“Um, Ginny and Luna on group chat. I miss them from my old school,” Lily lied. It was more of a half-lie because she did talk to them every week and she did miss them.

“Okay. Just making sure that you’re not talking to any strangers on that fancy-schmancy computer of yours. Anyway, I’m going to get Chinese for dinner. You want your regular?” he asked.

“Yes, please!” replied Lily. “Oh, and please get some extra teriyaki chicken for Patriot!”

“Who’s Patriot? Your Snatgon?” her father asked. “Yes, I named him Patriot. I couldn’t just call him Snatgon!” Lily scoffed. “Okay. I’m going to pick up Chinese so if you need anything just call Miss Jefferson next door,” her father said.

“Can I use the bathtub?” Lily asked. “Sure. Be safe. And remember if there is anything you need just call or go to Miss Jefferson’s, ‘kay? Love you, sweetie. Be back in about ten minutes,” Lily’s father said.

“Let’s get you a bath!” Lily exclaimed to Patriot. A puff of smoke came out of Patriot’s mouth. “Oh, man! This is going to be way harder than I thought! I have to get a fire-breathing snake cat thing into WATER,” Lily thought.

“Fine. I’ll force you in,” Lily’s brave side got the best of her. “No matter how hard I try I am going to get you in that bath!”

Lily announced. And after five minutes of trying, Lily finally got Patriot in the bath. Also, she achieved making her red hair brown from water, her yellow t-shirt a yucky dark yellowy green color, and her robin’s-egg-blue bike shorts now a really dark blue.

Lily scrubbed Patriot’s scaly body and brushed his sharp, cat-like teeth. When her father returned, Lily was changed and finished with the bath. (continued on next page)

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The Spire Crier

(The Snatgon continued) “Can I eat in my room? To play with Patriot?” she asked. “Only this once,” was her father’s answer. “Oh! Can I video chat Ginny and Luna?” Lily asked. “Fine. I’ll check on you, okay?” Lily’s father said.

When she called Ginny and Luna, she immediately got an answer from both of them. Ginny, Luna, and Lily could be identical triplets, but they have different personalities. Ginny was chatty and outgoing, Luna was creative and quiet, and Lily was a mixture of both of them. Sometimes she was very quiet but sometimes she was like Ginny, chatty and outgoing.

“Hi there, Lily! How’s it going?” Ginny asked in her loud voice. “Hello, Lilyblue,” said Luna in her quiet voice. Luna’s ginger hair seemed to be redder and Ginny’s normally red hair was more auburn. “Hi. You guys changed!” Lily greeted them. “Ah, yes, people do change as time goes on,” Luna said before Ginny could answer. Luna’s amber eyes then suddenly looked distracted, although, they were not fully amber because her left eye had a patch of sea green above the pupil.

“Riiiight… anyway! What’s new with you, Lily? I’ve been appointed captain of the soccer team and Luna joined Drama Club and Book Club,” Ginny exclaimed. Luna was looking at a butterfly out of her window. “Oh, nothing, except I got a NEW PET!” Lily held up Patriot “His name is Patriot and I got him today.”

“Sorry, Lily, my video’s not working. I can see Ginny but not you. Can you email me a picture of him?” Luna said. “Uh… sure,” Lily replied. Lily sent a picture to Luna’s email.

“OH MY GOSH! HE’S SO ADORABLE!” Ginny exclaimed loudly. “Agreed,” Luna said quietly.

The friends talked and talked for a long, long time.

That night, Lily fell asleep with thoughts of Patriot and seeing her friends on video chat and the pet shop. The next morning, she woke up with Patriot sleeping on her chest and she smiled. She was happy to have him.

A Valentine’s Day Poem I could watch the sunrise, I could watch the sunset, I could walk in the rain without getting wet, I could witness their beauty as the flowers bloom, I could I could listen to bird songs as the new day dawns, I could feel the sunshine through the darkest clouds, I could hear a sweet whisper through the roar of a crowd, I could walk on water without soaking my feet, I could travel the world in less than a week, I could ponder the knowledge passed down by the wise, I could dwell in a castle built in the sky, I could paint a portrait and bring it to life, I could sleep without pain, on the edge of a knife, I could play a sweet melody to soften the mood, I could take all the bad and turn it to good, I could float on the breeze, I could fly on the wind, I could soar high in the sky leaving the world behind, I could travel the cosmos and watch it unfold, I could witness its power, so wonderful to behold, But of all the wonderful things I could do, There's nothing in the universe that compares to you, I'll hold you in my heart for the rest of my life, You're my living miracle, my sweet valentine.

--Harry Boslem

Volume 27 Issue 3

Movie Reviews and Views: What do you think?

By Ava-Riley Miles Here’s more from students and teachers about three of the latest movies.

Night in the Museum: Secret of the Tomb This adventure-filled movie is rated PG and is a fantasy fiction movie. It is funny and filled with the unexpected. While some jokes may only appeal to older kids, this movie is truly for kids. I would suggest this movie for kids ages 6+.

With the same characters you know and love, Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb will touch your heart again. This story is NOT getting old and you will STILL love the Night at the Museum, even if it is the third one. Here are some reviews from students: “…filled with adventure, comedy, and tons of drama”—5th grader Carola Mato “….reminded me a little of Big Hero Six”—5th grader Maddie Wagshul “…super good, very creative”—5th grader Jenna Hart Annie Annie is a movie based on the old one that you already knew. Basically, it adds a modern twist. The story is asking, “What would happen if Annie were to take place today?”

It is a very good movie, though the music is not the best. I would say it is for younger kids. Kids seven and younger would enjoy this movie the most. This funny movie is rated PG, parental guidance suggested. Some stars in this movie include: Quvenzhané Wallis as Annie, Jamie Foxx as Will Stacks, and Cameron Diaz as Miss Hannigan. You can even get some of the costumes at Target.

Here’s more from your classmates and teachers: “I wouldn’t have gone to see it on my own, but I enjoyed it none the less.”—Miss Orms “I liked how it is more modern and how they kept the dogJ!”—5th grader Yara Haddad “Has a lot of heart to it and I love the humor.”—5th grader Sophia LaPointe “…packed with surprises and adventure.”—5th grader Laura Furniss-Roe “… I think the cinematography in this movie was amazing. I was not expecting to enjoy it as much as I did. I think they all had beautiful voices.”—5th grader Amelia Sanford Into the Woods This film is fun, but aimed toward older kids (8+) and adults. You will never expect the second act! Over all, it is a great movie and is a must-see. Keep in mind it IS a musical. It takes all your favorite fairy tales and mixes them together. It also adds the after happily ever after. Have you ever wondered what happened to Cinderella and Rapunzel after getting married to their Prince Charmings? What about Little Red Riding hood or Jack (from Jack and the Beanstalk)? You are about to find out.

Here’s more from your classmates: “…I don’t recommend it. Especially for boys, unless you like fairy tales with Cinderella and Prince Charming in it. I would have rather watched a Sophia the First takeover weekend on Disney.”—5th grader P.J. Newcomm “…best movie in 2014”—5th grader Matthew De La Riva “It teaches a lot of lessons in a fun way and is an entertaining twist on some classic fairytales.”— 5th grader Carolina Lopez “…has lots of songs that you are singing in your head when you leave the theater. It has a bit of humor, which is good because it proves the people who made the movie weren’t trying too hard to be funny like in some movies.”—5th grader Celeste Viana

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The Spire Crier

St. Thomas Episcopal Parish School 5692 North Kendall Drive Coral Gables, FL 33156 305-665-4851

W E’ RE ON THE WEB AT S TEPSMIA. ORG GO

TO S CHOOL L IFE AND CLICK ON P UBLICATIONS

The Spire Crier is published by the fifth grade journalism class for the students of St. Thomas Episcopal Parish School.

Reporters: Nina Chehab, Felipe de Cardenas, Matthew De La Riva, Laura Furniss-Roe, Yara Haddad, Rosie Infante, Lulu Infante, Ava-Riley Miles, Madison Munroe, Laura Orban, Victor Quirch, Max Sanchez, Jack Silva, Rafael Urbina, Madeleine Wagshul Journalism Advisor: Ms. Christina Mayo Journalism Class Assistant: Emily Wong Mystery Teacher: Mrs. Samudrala Mystery Creature: Flame, the Albino Red Rat Snake

(Tom and Tia continued) At the same time, Tom was also writing a note: Dear Mom and Dad, Tia. Is. So. Annoying. Why couldn’t I be an only child??? UGH! She told me I was “Not doing a proper greeting” or whatever that means when I was just saying ‘sup to Mr. P.! CRAZY! Love Tom “…So that’s why my sister Amy attacked me with shaving cream!” Mr. Puffy Fluffy Pinklepot finished his story.

“QUIZ ON MY STORY TIME!” Mr. Puffy Fluffy Pinklepot exclaimed. “Which of my siblings told me I looked like a goat in my rabbit Halloween costume? A) Rowena B) Josh C) Amy or D) Charles.”

“Uh… Rowena?” Tom guessed. “No! It was obviously C! Remember, Rowena was nice!” scoffed Mr. Puffy Fluffy Pinklepot. Tia and Tom looked at each other and tried to hide their giggles. This was going to be VERY fun!

Turkish translations from English to help you with your travels

By Yara Haddad You're welcome! (for “thank you”) Rica ederim!

If you ever go to Turkey these phrases might help. Hey! Friend! Hey! Arkadaş!

Here is a short English to Turkish translation guide: I missed you so much! Seni (sizi) çok özledim!

What's new? Ne var ne yok?

Hi! Merhaba!

Nothing much Özel bir şey yok!

Good morning! Günaydın!

Good night! İyi geceler!

Good evening! İyi akşamlar!

See you later! Görüşürüz!

Welcome! (to greet someone) Hoş geldiniz! (Answer: We hope you get the chance to visit Turkey and Hoş bulduk!) that these translations assist you on your journey.

How are you? Nasılsın(ız)?

I'm fine, thanks! İyiyim, teşekkür ederim!

And you?

Ya siz?

Good/ So-So. İyi /Şöyle böyle Thank you (very much)! (Çok) teşekkür ederim!

Happy Valentine’s Day!