Congratulations to the 7th Grade Mathletes for DOMINATING at the Mid-Valley Math Competition!
Need Advice?
Ask Rocky the Bulldog anything!
Being a middle schooler can be difficult! You can be balancing everything from assignments and classes, life at home, to friendships, maybe newfound crushes and relationships, to extracurricular activities and sports, and everything in between!
I get it. I am a Morgan student too! That is why I am here to help you with all of the many questions you may have! ANONYMOUSLY share your problems, wonderings, and issues going on, and I will do what I can to help you!
All these questions are from previous Morgan Insider issues and were anonymously submitted by MMS students.
Click here to submit your questions to Rocky the Bulldog!
Dear Rocky,
There is a girl who I heard likes me but I really don't like her back; I like her as a friend. I have math with her, and she is always trying to talk to me. I can tell she likes me, and I heard she might ask me out. but if she asks me out, I don’t know what I would say to her. Please help!
-Anonymous
Dear Anonymous,
That definitely can be complicated, but luckily, it can easily be solved! If she ends up asking you out, there is nothing wrong with telling her the truth and how you really feel. If you don’t like her the same way she likes you, then you should be able to let her know, while still making it clear you still want to be friends. Most likely she will be hurt because being rejected can be tough for anyone, but time will pass and you will hopefully stay good friends. Let her come to you when she’s ready to tell you, and tell her the truth if she does. Good luck!
-Rocky
Dear Rocky,
I really like a girl in my 6th period but I don't know if she likes me back or what she would say if I asked her out? Please give advice.
-Anonymous
Dear Anonymous,
Asking someone out is a big step, but we’ll break it down! You might feel nervous about her answer, but trust me that if you know this person well then things can only get better! If rejection is seriously your biggest concern, don’t let it become a hindrance to you telling this person how you feel. Ask her after class, during lunch, or just when the time feels right! You will feel so proud of yourself afterwards after you tell her. You got this!
-Rocky
Dear Rocky,
I am having trouble keeping good relationships with my friends and I want to know if I should try to keep the relationship or find new friends?
-Anonymous
Dear Anonymous,
I’m so sorry! Friendships in middle school can be difficult just because you and everyone else is trying to find out who they are. Middle school is the time where you get more responsibilities, more freedom, and friendships are kind of the thing you count on to carry you through to high school. If you think that your tough friendships are affecting your happiness or giving you anxiety, bring it up with your friends and see if the problem can be solved. Take a step back, catch your breath, and maybe widen your circle! Don’t worry, it’ll sort itself out at the end of the day.
-Rocky
Click here to submit your questions to Rocky the Bulldog!
Morgan Students Compete at Math Competition
Mrs. Clark
On Monday, March 3, math teachers Mrs. Isitt and Mrs. Harwood took six teams of MMS students to Selah to compete in the Mid-Valley Math Competition. At the MVMC, students from schools all over Central Washington compete in categories like mental math, algebra, and geometry, to see which teams have the best math-sense and skills.
Sixth-grade math teacher Mrs. Isitt says of the student competitors, "They did a fantastic job and we were very impressed with their hard work, sportsmanship and perseverance."
The mathletes competing on the 8th-grade teams were Louis Crosby, Irelyn Bearup, Christian Simmons, Olivia Burson, Wyatt Polacek, Lilly Weaver, Rhye Phillips, and Sophia Kuntz. The competition was tough, and though the 8th graders did not place, they worked hard and demonstrated perseverance and grit throughout.
The mathletes competing on the 7th-grade teams were Morgan Gibb, Parker Olsen, Lillian Rolfe, Lillian Luke, Elsa Penoyar, Rivers Harwood, Evelyn Self, and Capron Samples. These teams pushed through several challenging rounds and took 1st place overall!
The mathletes competing on the 6th-grade teams were Clara Kuntz, Maxine Beam, Dema Dondji, Weston Smith, Akriti Dhungana, Ella Houlroyd, Damian Jackson, and Moses McGee. The 6th graders took 3rd place overall.
Damian Jackson, grade 6, said of the competition, "It was a lot of fun. It was a lot different than I expected." If he gets the opportunity, Damian says he would go again.
Dema Dondji, grade 6, said, "It was a lot of fun, and one thing that I got from it was to not second guess myself in the questions. And also to trust my teammates." If she is able to go next year, Dema would love to represent MMS again.
In 6th grade, students from advanced math class can volunteer to compete, and Mrs. Isitt makes the final decision on the team rosters. In 7th and 8th grades, Mr. Flores and Mrs. Leach select competitors based on specific criteria and skills demonstrated in their math classes.
Pot of Gold Cake-Pops
Chloie Biddle
St. Patrick's Day pots of gold cake-pops are fun treats that everyone will love! Made from chocolate and donut holes (to make it simpler than cake pops) and shaped like little pots and covered in green candy, they’re topped with sparkly gold and Lucky Charms.
These cake pops are perfect for parties, or just when you're craving a fun treat. Plus, they’re easy to enjoy in one bite- making them a great treat for both kids and adults!
Ingredients
- donut holes
- green candy melts
- gold crystal sprinkles
- Lucky Charms (just the marshmallows)
- cake-pop sticks
Note: the amount of ingredients you need depends on how many cake-pops you want to make.
First, melt some candy melts (don't use them all) in the microwave, string every 30 seconds so they don't burn.
While they're melting, get a tray or plate ready, then when the chocolate is melted, dip the stick into chocolate, then into the donut hole.
Next, dip the donuts into the chocolate, and swirl until fully covered. Then, shake off the excess chocolate.
Put the donuts face down onto the tray and slightly press to create a flat bottom. Let them fool in the fridge for about 5-10 minutes.
Melt the rest of the chocolate and drizzle on the flat side of the cake pop. Finally, sprinkle the gold glitter and stick in the Lucky Charms. You can also remove the sticks and serve them without.
ENJOY!
Upcoming Sports
Ashley Hill
As spring unfolds, track and field athletes are getting ready for their events, girls' soccer teams are preparing for their matches, and baseball players are back on the field. It’s a great time for competition and talent!
There's a genuine excitement in the air as spring sports kick off. Everyone is looking forward to the games, eager to support their teammates and see how the season unfolds. It’s a great time to come together and enjoy the competition. Spring sports at Morgan start up on March 31, the first Monday after spring break.
Requirements
If you are planning on doing a spring sport, be prepared. You must have a current physical on file and purchase an ASB card. For the 2024-25 season, ASB cards are $28.00.
Players are required to be “APPROVED” with a Blue Slip from the MMS before they can participate in any MMS athletics training session.
Track
The first day of practices will begin on Monday, March 31 at MMS in the main gym after school at 2:35. Athletes will walk together to the EHS track. Athletes should bring athletic wear, running shoes, and water.
Track will have 5 meets, and one will be at home @EHS.
Head Coach: Mike Nollan
Soccer
Practice will begin on Monday, March 31 at Mountain View Park after school at 2:45 PM and will run to 4:30 PM. Players will meet in the MMS commons and walk to the park together.
Players should bring soccer cleats, shin guards, and bottled water. Practices are competitive and players should be on time, ready, and focused.
All home games will take place at Mountain View Park.
Head Coach: Austin Smith
Baseball
The first day for tryouts/practice will be Monday, March 31. Practices will be held at Rotary Fields Monday through Friday from 2:30 to 4:30 pm. There will be bus transportation to practice, but not returning.
Student athletes should bring a glove, baseball cleats or shoes with good traction, baseball pants, long sleeves, and a hat.
Games will be held at Rotary Fields.
8th Grade Coach: Brian Alexzander
7th Grade Coach: TBD
How to Register
To participate, students and parents should read the Athletic Handbook. Then students must register HERE.
All of this information is in the athletics section of the school website, mms.esd401.org and sports schedules will be posted as they become available.
Questions?
- Briley Cameron
- Middle School Athletic Director
- 509-925-8200
- briley.cameron@esd401.org
Summer Smoothie Recipes!
Paisley Douthwaite & Allison Alder
Do you long for the warmth and sunshine of summer? If so, we have the perfect solution for you!
This delightful smoothie, filled with the refreshing flavors of your favorite fruits, will transport you back to those sunny days and brighten your mood and refresh your spirit. Enjoy a little escape from the present with this delicious treat!
To get started, gather the following ingredients:
- one ripe banana
- frozen fruit mix that includes a blend of mangoes, strawberries, and bananas
- a bottle of Simply Lemonade
Now that you have all your ingredients, we can start the process,
STEP 1: Add all the ingredients to your blender.
STEP 2: Blend all the ingredients until you have a smooth consistency to your smoothie. (You might need to add more lemonade or fruits.)
STEP 3: Add your smoothie to a bowl or cup.
STEP 4: Enjoy!!
Lucky Charms Cookies
Brooklyn Velasquez
Lucky Charms cookies are a pretty easy treat to make and taste amazing! They take about 10 minutes to cook and 20 minutes to prep, leaving the whole process at about a 30-minute total. This recipe should make about 10 large cookies!
Suggested items
- Electric or handheld mixer
- Measuring cups
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Cookie scoop
Ingredients
- 1 ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon coarse salt
- ½ cup sugar
- ½ cup vegan butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup lucky charms marshmallows
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl whisk together the flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl with an electric or handheld mixer, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs and vanilla, beating until each has been incorporated.
Mix in marshmallows until evenly distributed.
Scoop cookies onto baking sheet, about 2 tablespoons in size, a few inches apart.
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the tops have just been set but haven't started to turn brown.
Remove from oven and press additional marshmallows into the tops while cookies are still warm.
ENJOY!
Different Types of Flowers
Abiageal Frank & Elliot Holland-Neff
Are you ready for spring and the flowers? I know I am! With all the beautiful colors and flowers, here are some different kinds of beautiful flowers.
Lilies
Lilies are a group of flowering plants that have large bell-shaped petals. They come in many beautiful colors. Lilies are not only stunning, but they also play a huge role in some cultures across the world. Lilies represent purity and beauty, and they also have a strong fragrance.
Peonies
Peonies come in pink, red, white, and yellow. They represent wealth and honor, happiness, romance, and beauty, making them popular on special occasions. Peonies bloom in late spring. Peonies have large showy petals and rich colors that pop in the spring.
Marigolds
Marigold flowers are a beautiful flower. They represent energy, good luck, warmth, creativity, prosperity, passion, and more. They also symbolize despaired love. They also symbolize grief, despair, and jealousy. They thrive in the sun and have lots of beautiful colors that they come in, like yellow, orange, and blue. And even more colors!
Old Garden Roses
Old Garden Roses are also referred to as True Antique Roses. They are a gorgeous pink color that makes it beautiful, along with the petals. They represent and symbolize love and passion. Lots of people choose this flower at weddings due to the representation of love.
Sources: urbanstems.com, bloom&wild.com, floraly.com
Oreo Mug Cake
Amelia Wooten
Are you craving something sweet and rich? Here’s an easy 3-ingredient recipe for Oreo Mug Cake!
The ingredients you'll need are:
- Oreos
- Baking powder
- Milk
And obviously, a mug of your choice!
Step One
Crumble and break apart 7 Oreos into your mug. Pour in ⅓ cups of milk and mash together with a fork until there are no large chunks.
Step Two
Stir in ¼ teaspoon of baking powder.
Step Three
Put mug in microwave for 90 seconds until cake is set.
Let rest for one minute and enjoy!
Original Recipe: tastebetterfromscratch.com
WW2
1945
Trenton Kelly
Recap
In case you haven’t read my previous articles, here is a chronological recap of some of the important events that were covered.
- The German annexation of Austria and Czechoslovakia
- The German invasion of Poland causing the start of WW2
- The split of Poland between the Soviets and Germans
- The German invasion of the Benelux region
- Blitzkrieg and the capitulation of France
- Failed invasion attempts of Britain
- German invasion of the Soviets
- Great progress by the Germans pushing all the way to Moscow
- Germans start to lose ground
- Soviets start multiple counter offensives pushing the Germans clear back to the Polish border and into the Balkans
- American/British landing in Italy
- Allies push into Italy
- Progress stalls
- D-day and the landings at Normandy
- The liberation of Paris and the rest of France
- The connection of the Italian and French allied fronts
After this, it brings us to now where the Soviet Red Army overwhelmed the Germans in the east, and the Allied powers were pushing in the west. The Germans have been losing ground on both fronts and now they had to worry about a southern front in Italy. Many Germans had begun to accept their fate of a loss going into 1945.
Steady Soviet Advances
In the early months of 1945, the Soviets had continued pushing into Poland and the Balkans. One of the things they found that shocked the world was Auschwitz, which was the first liberated concentration camp of that siz,e and it had Soviet soldiers in shock. Even though this may have thrown them off, it gave them enough morale to finish fighting, now they knew what they were fighting for. Down in the Balkans, the Soviets had taken all of Romania and Bulgaria and had begun pushing into Hungary, and there was a very vital battle, and the capital of Hungary, Budapest. At this battle, the Soviets had the city surrounded but the Germans had used the last of their very powerful armored units to break it free, but they were surrounded once more, and the Germans had now lost their only remaining advantage,goo and all hopes of a counter attack were gone.
Western Front Efforts
After the recent success at the battle of the bulge, the allies started preparing for an offensive into the Ardennes forest to kick the Germans out of France once and for all, and this was successful. After this attack, the allies had begun to prepare for an attack into the Rhine region of Germany, which held many resources and would be vital for them to keep. After this operation was prepared, the allies launched several operations into the Rhine region, crossing the river in multiple spots. But by the time these operations were finished, the Soviets were already on the doorstep of Berlin
The Battle of Berlin
In early to mid April the Soviets had begun encircling the city before completing this maneuver. In mid-April, the Soviets finally launched their attack. This battle had around 2.5 million soviets supported by thousands of tanks and aircraft charging into Berlin, defended by about a million German troops. The Soviets were led by Marshal Zhukov, the main general in Operation Uranus, and the Germans were led by Adolf Hitler himself, who had been the dictator and commander of the army the entire war. The battle began with heavy artillery fire from the Soviets. The German architecture in the city was heavily damaged by this, leaving the poorly malnourished Germans with little cover to defend the oncoming Soviet horde. As the Soviet Red Army slowly advanced into the City, the Germans started slowly losing hope and many were abandoning their jobs in hopes of not being captured. As the Red Army took the City, Hitler and his wife rushed into their bunker where Hitler's wife was given poison and Hitler himself had shot himself in the head. This is where he was found and where WW2 in Europe ended. The Soviets, after nearly having their capital taken, were now in Berlin after defeating the Germans
Sources
- Britannica: Information
- Warfare History Network: images
- People's Dispatch: Images
Staff Spotlight
Natalia Garcia
Welcome to Staff Spotlight, I picked four different staff members for you to learn some surprising facts about!
Mrs. Smith
What makes a good day?
A good day at school is when I see students working hard and being KIND to one another. I love the days where my students are learning and working but we are also having fun and laughing together in the classroom. Also, when a student tells me my outfit "eats".
What inspired you to want to teach?
I've always loved working with kids. I never really felt a connection with teachers past Elementary school and I want to be a teacher students can count on.
What is the best/worst thing about teaching?
Best: Building relationships and seeing students excel. Worst: GRADING ESSAYS.
What advice would you give to the students?
My advice for middle school students is these three years are a small blip of your lifetime. The years will go by quickly and YOU have to make it what you want.
What would the students be surprised to find out about you?
Students would be surprised to find out that before I became a teacher I was a Juvenile Probation Counselor here in Ellensburg. I helped youth who got in trouble with the law fulfill their court-ordered requirements.
Mr. Moultine
What makes a good day?
Sleeping in, coffee, and a crossword puzzle with my wife!!!
What inspired you to want to teach?
I always liked helping friends when I was in school. Especially with math, I seemed to always be good at explaining to others in a way that made sense.
What's the best/worst thing about teaching?
Best: Watching students get something. I love that "ah ha" moment (I don't think I'm supposed to write summer break is my favorite part...) Worst: meetings and paperwork...If I could just teach students all day, it would be awesome!
What advice would you give to the students?
Don't ask what the world needs, ask yourself what makes you come alive, then go do that because what the world needs is people who have come alive.
What would the students be surprised to find out about you?
I have ADHD and mild Dyslexia and school has always been hard for me. It has taken a lot of hard work and specific practice to improve my skills to make it through college and become a teacher. I have had to learn to use my strengths to overcome my deficits but I have been able to become a successful adult and teacher.
Mrs. Thomassen
What makes a good day?
A good day is when we are having fun doing an activity and students are on-task so I don't have to be a "mean" teacher.
What inspired you to want to teach?
I have always enjoyed helping students and teaching. When I was in 6th grade, I would go help in a Kindergarten class. I loved playing school or doing anything related to school.
What's the best/worst thing about teaching?
The best thing about teaching is when students are engaged in the lab activities and watching them understand something they didn't know about. The worst thing about teaching is when students are talking while I try to give directions.
What advice would you give the students?
Try your best and listen to your teachers. They all just want to help you be successful.
What would the students be surprised to find out about you?
I have been married for 22 years. My husband and I had only known each other for 11 months when we got married.
Mr. Bradshaw
What makes a good day?
A good day is when students are participating, I am teaching a part of history I enjoy, and I am learning as much from the students as they are from me.
What inspired you to want to teach?
My love of history inspired me to teach. I was unsure if I would enjoy it, but once I spent time in the classroom, I found that it was a good fit for me.
What's the best/worst thing about teaching?
The best thing is talking about history with students every day. The worst thing is when a student decides history is boring.
What advice would you give the students?
Doing schoolwork is not always about learning the material, it is about having a good work ethic. There are some things in life you do not want to do, but you have to do them anyway.
What would the students be surprised to find out about you?
I originally wanted to be a chef. I worked in restaurants through high school and college, but discovered history and teaching during college, which is where my life took me.
Uncommon Fruits
Olive Martinson
Here are some uncommon fruits that you probably haven't heard of:
Rambutan: it is a sweet, juicy fruit with a jelly-like texture. It tastes somewhat like a grape.
Kiwana: it has a flavor like cucumber mixed with melon. It has a soft, squishy texture.
Ground Cherry: it is a tropical flavored tart fruit, tasting of tomato and pineapple.
Salak: this fruit tastes like dried banana and dates. It has a texture that is crunchy and moist.
Source: Ever in Transit
Mint Oreo M&Ms Brookies
Harper Bononcini
These Mint Oreo M&M Brookies are so good, they are a treat everyone will love. These are colorful, but they have a very "leprechaun" look to them, so they are perfech for St. Patrick's Day. These can be eaten with ice cream too, which makes them even better. I hope you enjoy!
Prep time: 10 min
Recipe from: Betty Crocker
Ingredients
- 1 box of Fudge Brownie Mix
- 1 pouch of Sugar Cookie Mix
- vegetable oil
- water
- eggs
- 1 ¼ cups of green M&Ms [ I just got a small box of M&Ms and added the whole box]
- 12 Mint Oreos [ I just cut the Oreos into fourths and spread them out evenly on the cookie dough. You do not need exactly 12]
Directions
Heat oven to 350°. Line a 9-inch square pan with foil, allowing foil to hang over the sides of the pan for easy removal after baking. Spray with cooking spray.
Make brownie batter as directed on the box. Spread in the pan. Bake for 32 to 35 minutes or until brownies are set around sides and toothpick inserted in center comes out almost clean. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, make cookie dough as directed on the pouch for drop cookies. Stir in one cup of M&Ms. Drop half of the cookie dough on top of the baked brownie layer.
Add half of the Oreo pieces. Repeat the layering with remaining cookie dough and Oreo pieces.
With the back of a spoon or spatula, gently press cookie dough together to form an even layer. Top with the remaining 1/4 cup of M&Ms, pressing gently into cookie dough.
Bake for 23 to 28 minutes or until the cookie layer is set, covering with foil last 10 minutes if necessary to prevent overbrowning. Cool for at least 1 hour.
The Not-So-Baby Babysitter
Evelyn Self
Pot of Gold Pretzels
Ashley Hill
These were so good, I just had to bring them back for a second year! These 4-ingredient St. Patrick’s Day Pot of Gold Pretzels make a quick, easy, and fun treat for St. Patrick’s Day parties!
Ingredients
- Waffle style pretzels
- Rolo candies
- Xtreme Airhead Rainbow Bites
- Gold sugar crystals
Instructions
First preheat the oven to 250. Next place the pretzels on a parchment-lined baking sheet and add a Rolo to the corner of each pretzel. Then place the pretzels in the oven for about 2-3 minutes, which is just enough time to soften the chocolate.
Remove them from the oven and immediately sprinkle the top of each Rolo with gold sugar and place a rainbow bite in front of each Rolo.
Allow the chocolate to set for 10-15 minutes and then they are ready to serve!
The Last Event in the Universe
White Dwarfs and Black Holes
Bridger Thompson
When all the objects in the universe have spread out due to dark energy, and all the stars have exploded into supernovas, what will be the last major event in the grand abyss?
Black holes provide a close contender for this spot due to Hawking radiation. When the biggest black hole in the universe stops taking in matter, it slowly deteriorates because of Hawking radiation. This process goes faster and faster until the black hole explodes in a final show of energy.
How long does this process take? The biggest black hole (Phoenix A) would take 10^100 years to dissipate fully, and a black hole the mass of our sun would take 10^67 years, but a black hole with the mass of Jupiter would take less than a minute.
This interesting phenomenon gets second place, although it falls far behind the first place. When a star collapses, it most likely turns into a white dwarf. These tiny stars litter the universe in almost every galaxy and will be the longest-living stars to exist. All stars run out of fuel eventually, and the smaller the star, the longer it takes. Eventually, the super-dense white dwarfs will lose heat until they become black dwarfs, a husk of one of the last stars.
Black Dwarfs: the most boring object in the universe
The universe is filled with lots of cool and exciting objects, stuff that challenges our imagination, and stuff that provides answers to questions, even if they create more. Because of the standard set by everything else in the universe, it is safe to say that for the first hundred quadrillion years, a black dwarf is the most boring thing that will ever exist.
A black dwarf is a hyperdense (the third most dense object in the universe) object that is about the size of Earth, but has the mass of the sun. This object's surface temperature is just a fraction of a degree above absolute zero (absolute zero is -459.67 Fahrenheit so a black dwarf would be around -459 degrees.) If not for quantum mechanics, there would be countless cold black spheres floating in the abyss, but quantum mechanics does exist. A star can stay burning because atoms “tunnel” inside of another atom (this process is called quantum tunneling.)
When atoms fuse, they create new elements. This process happens in very hot and very cold temperatures, it just happens at a mind-numbingly slow rate. When the first two carbon atoms combine, they create magnesium. Magnesium combines to create an oxygen atom, two oxygen atoms combine to create a silicon atom, and two silicon atoms combine to create a nickel 56 atom. Each of these reactions takes place farther and farther away from each other on the timeline, as they have to fuse heavier and heavier elements.
Once a nickel 56 atom has been created, the black dwarf has a problem: the nickel is radioactive and quickly turns into iron. When this happens, the iron atom releases two antimatter positrons. Positrons and electrons hate each other. A positron's only purpose is to destroy itself along with the electrons, (this is bad.)
The black dwarf requires electrons to keep the star from collapsing (electron degeneracy pressure) and if there is a lack of electrons, it can't support itself. After an incomprehensible amount of time (I spent 30 minutes trying to put it into reasonable numerical terms, not brief) it creates more nickel and more iron. Eventually, there are too few electrons and the star collapses into a supernova. How convenient that the universe started and ended with a bang.
How long does it actually take?
After all these years, we get to the end. But how long away is the end? This question depends on how small the black dwarf you're watching is.
For this example, let's use the smallest possible black dwarf and the longest timespan (Drumroll please) which is 10^32,000 years. Have you ever heard of a Google? Imagine a Googleplex to the Googleplex to the Googleplex power and you might just be getting close to one-hundredth of the timespan if it was measured in millennia.
Wouldn't this be a fun send-off to any immortal being who happens to be watching? Good thing we don't have to live that long.
But if you think all that explanation of a far-removed galactic phenomenon is crazy, I challenge you to think again, and to think of other CRAZY QUESTIONS for me to tackle in the next issue of the Morgan Insider.
The Chernobyl Disaster
Adithya Rajendran
It's April 26, 1986. You're near Pripyat, Ukraine on a casual walk near the Belarus Border, when you suddenly hear a loud boom! The sound startles you, so you begin to look around you to try and find the source of the noise, and you see that the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant had a tank explosion. Your instincts tell you to run away, but you immediately begin to get skin burns, witnessing this happen to others around you. Eventually, you start to lose consciousness and pass out.
This explosion was the Chernobyl Disaster. A disaster event caused by the explosion of the no. 4 reactor explosion in the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant. It remains both the worst and the most costly nuclear disaster, with an estimated cost of 700 Billion USD.
What caused it?
The disaster occurred due to the reactor’s design and operator errors. A test was run to simulate cooling the reactor during blackout conditions. Despite the accidental drop in power and due to a design issue, attempting to shut down the reactor in the current conditions resulted in a dramatic power surge. This caused reactor components to rupture and lose coolants, the resulting steam explosions and meltdown destroyed the containment building, followed by a reactor core fire that spread radioactive contaminants across the USSR and Europe.
The Instant Effect
Immediately, large quantities of radioactive substances were released into the air for about 10 days. It is estimated that all of the xenon gas, half of the iodine and cesium, and 5% of the remaining radioactive material in the Chernobyl 4 reactor core was released in the accident. The core contained a total of 192 tons of fuel. Most of the released material settled nearby as dust and debris, but the lighter material was carried by wind across Ukraine, Belarus, Russia, and, to some extent, Scandinavia and Europe.
The Emergency Operations
An emergency operation was initiated to extinguish the fires and stabilize the reactor. 237 workers were hospitalized, 134 exhibited symptoms of acute radiation syndrome, and 28 died within three months.
"Acute radiation syndrome (ARS), also known as radiation sickness or radiation poisoning, is a collection of health effects that are caused by being exposed to high amounts of ionizing radiation in a short period.” -Wikipedia
The next task was cleaning up the radiation at the site to restart the reactors. About 200,000 people ('liquidators') from all over the Soviet Union were involved in the recovery and clean-up during 1986 and 1987. Due to the high doses of radiation the liquidators were getting, the 200,00 liquidators increased to 600,000 liquidators.
A 6.2-mile exclusion zone was established 36 hours after the accident, evacuating around 49,000 people. The exclusion zone was later expanded to 30 kilometers (19 mi), resulting in the evacuation of approximately 68,000 more people. By May 14, over 116,000 people were evacuated and placed into less contaminated areas.
In 2017, the New Safe Confinement (NSC) structure was built. The New Safe Confinement is an arch 110 meters high, 165 meters long, and spanning 260 meters, made to cover both unit 4 and the hastily-built 1986 structure. The arch frame is a lattice construction of tubular steel members, equipped with internal cranes.
The Long-Lasting Effects
Despite decades after the disaster, it continued to affect people. In the following years of the accident, 220,000 people were resettled into less contaminated areas, and the exclusion zone was modified and extended to cover 4300 square kilometers. As of 2005, there were over 6000 cases of child thyroid cancer within the affected populations, being heavily attributed to the disaster.
According to the World Nuclear Association, about 20,000 cases of thyroid cancer were diagnosed from 1991-2015 in patients who were 18 and under at the time of the accident.
In February 2003, the IAEA established the Chernobyl Forum. The Chernobyl Forum was an international organization composed of multiple UN agencies that scientifically assessed the health and environmental impacts of the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear power plant accident.
Chernobyl Today
Chernobyl today is a ghost town within the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone. Before it had 14,000 residents, and now it is only a small amount, and a small number of animals live there as well. Currently, there are two general stores and one motel in the city. Workers on watch and administrative personnel of the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone are also stationed in the city.
In the 2022 Russian Invasion of Ukraine, Russian forces temporarily captured and occupied Ukraine. Following this, it was reported that radiation levels rose temporarily due to human activities, including earthworks, which disturbed the dust.
The Chernobyl Disaster was a time of death, sickness, and chaos. The radiation within the exclusion zone will likely not be habitable for a few hundred years. But we should all be glad that people were evacuated in time and that the radiation was contained before further damage could be done.
What would you do in a situation like this?
Sources
- Wikipedia
- World Nuclear Association
Fun Facts About St. Patrick’s Day
Ava Henson
What is St. Patrick’s Day? Who is St. Patrick Continue to find out more about what’s behind the holiday.
Who was St. Patrick?
St. Patrick was a Christian missionary born in Britain in 365 A.D. He was taken to Ireland to establish churches and schools, eventually. Many legends were tied to him, like how he drove all the snakes out of Ireland and used the shamrock for his teachings. Did you know that St. Patrick is historically represented wearing blue instead of green?
How did leprechauns become part of the holiday?
Leprechauns are depicted as tiny, mischievous old men dressed in green. In Irish mythology, if you catch a leprechaun, he must grant you three wishes before his release. Leprechauns are associated with St. Patrick's Day because they both trace back to the history of Ireland.
What does a rainbow have to do with St. Patrick's Day?
The rainbow is known as a symbol of hope and the pursuit of dreams in Celtic Culture. In Irish folklore, leprechauns are often said to guard the pot of gold at the end of a rainbow. However, the rainbow moves with you, making the pot of gold unreachable.
Thanks so much for reading. Have an awesome St. Patrick’s Day!
Sources
- Brittanica
- History Coopertive
- World Atlas
Starbucks Drinks
Ellie Youngblood
If you love Starbucks and want some new drinks to try, then look here for the best drink recommendations.
Cran-Merry orange refresher
The Cran-Merry Refresher is a sweet refresher with delicious notes of sweet orange, tart cranberry, and warm spice shaken with ice, lemonade, and delicious cranberry inclusions. This drink is very delightful and one you should try!
Sugar Cookie Latte
The Sugar Cookie Latte is a very tasty drink with Sugar cookie-flavored syrup combined with Starbucks Blonde Espresso Roast and steamed almond milk, topped with sprinkles. If you haven't had this drink before, you should try it!
Java Chip Frappuccino
The Java Chip Frappuccino is a chocolatey Frappuccino with mocha sauce and Frappuccino chips with coffee, milk, and ice, then topped off with whipped cream and a mocha drizzle. You should try this drink because it is a sweet and delicious option!
Source
- Starbucks
Saint Patrick´s Day DIY
Evelyn Self
Not everyone decorates for Saint Patrick´s Day, so it can be pretty boring to look around your house and see you have no decorations. If you're looking to spruce up your home for the upcoming holiday, then you should read this article and find out what goes into a Saint Patrick´s Day Clover Decoration.
What you will need:
- Green construction paper
- Gold glitter
- Cardboard
- Glue
- Scissors
- String or twine
- Hole puncher
Step one: Cut two pieces of cardboard into equally sized clovers.
Step two: Cut a line into the top of one clover and the bottom of the other.
Step three: Glue green paper on each side of both pieces of cardboard and cut off the excess paper.
Step four: Put a drop of glue on each side of both clovers, spread it around, and then sprinkle glitter until each side is sparkly.
Step five: Connect clovers by putting the one with the line through the bottom on the one with the line on the top.
Step six: Put a hole somewhere near the top of one of your connected clovers.
Step seven: Tie string through the hole and hang it from the ceiling.
Mandalorian History
Miah Littrell
In this article, you will learn the history of the Mandalorians from the Star Wars Universe.
Note: this article is based on Legends history. Legends is everything related to Star Wars from before Disney owned it.
Quick Facts
- The native language of Manda'yaim is Mando’a
- Manda'yaim is the Mandalorian name for Mandalore
- Mandalore has one moon, Concordia
The Beginnings
The beginnings of Mandalorians, they started as tribes. Their culture centered around battles and wars as a source of honor and pride. The leader of these tribes is Mand'alor, which translates to Sole Ruler. These people began as the human-like species Taung on the planet Coruscant.
They fought intensely with the humans on Coruscant until a volcano killed nearly all the humans and darkened the skies, and took up the name the warriors of the shadows. Ultimately they were eventually driven off Coruscant and onto Roon. Being led by Mandalore the First, they conquered a planet in the outer rim which they named after their leader and then took on the name Mandalorians.
Create your own Mandalorians HERE!
Sources
- https://starwars.fandom.com/wiki/Mandalorian/Legends
- https://starwars.fandom.com/wiki/Mandalore/Legends
- https://mandocreator.com/tools/dictionary/index.html
- https://starwars.fandom.com/wiki/Taung/Legends
- https://starwars.fandom.com/wiki/Coruscant
- https://starwars.fandom.com/wiki/Roon/Legends
St. Patrick’s Day Day Trip
Evalynn Andal
Still don’t know what to do for St. Patrick’s Day? Well, I have news for you! Your family can take a day trip to Bellevue, which is less than 2 hours away, for some St. Patrick's Day fun.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
This fun parade will occur on March 15th, starting at 12:30 p.m. and ending at 2:30 p.m. in Bellevue. It will begin at James Street and 4th Avenue and proceed along 4th Avenue to Westlake Park. The best part is that it is free and open to everyone.
Lucky Leprechauns Crafts and Science Fun
This family-friendly event starts on Friday, March 14, 2025. I know many of you have younger siblings, and even if you don’t, it’s still a fun event if you like science or crafts! The event starts on Friday, March 14th, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the KidsQuest Children’s Museum at 116 108th Ave NE in Bellevue.
Student Content Creators
Allison Alder, Evalynn Andal, Lili Baldovinos, Elke Barlow, Chloie Biddle, Harper Bononcini, Olive Chelby, Paisley Douthwaite, Michael Eberhart, Quinn Fleming, Abiageal Frank, Natalia Garcia, Ava Henson, Ashley Hill, Elliot Holland-Neff, Trenton Kelly, Miah Littrell, Emily Malella, Olive Martinson, Adithya Rajendran, Evelyn Self, Bridger Thompson, Brooklyn Velasquez, Amelia Wooten, & Ellie Youngblood
Advisor/Editor
Mrs. Carly Clark
Credits:
Created with images by Mike Mareen - "a beautiful, colorful rainbow against the background of a dangerous, stormy sky over a rural farm" • Dmytro - "Aerial. Green grass texture background. Top view from drone." • Alexander Raths - "Assortment of colorful ripe tropical fruits. Top view" • Iuliia Sokolovska - "Stars and galaxy outer space sky night universe background "