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47.Get 100% on the STAR 150th Anniversary of the Civil WarTech: The Solar BallTeens: Drama and Conflicts

Monday, May 2, 2011 • Volume 1, No. 2

Changing of the Guard

Pleasanton Middle School Votes for new ASB Officers for 2011-2012

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the 4.74 | What’s Happening_ 4 Deaths in Smuggling Tunnel_Yellowstone Super Volcano_French Club_Teen Monthly

6 | Cool Stuff

12 | Opinion_What People Do for Fame_School Uniforms: Good or Bad

11 | 150th Anniversary of the Civil War

14 | Tech_2011: Year of the Tablets?_Solar Ball_Nintendo… as a phone?

17 | Advice Column

18 | Storytime_Sleep Ch. 2_A New Friend for a New Year_The Backstage Pass_The Ocean

21| Riddletime with Dave and Eleni<<<Cover Design by Bryce Fan and Arthur Hwang Not pictured: Nikitha Reddy’s Poster for President (Sorry!)

Photos: Annette Lipski for the 4.7

The 4.7 MagazineEditors in Chief and Founders: Arthur Hwang and Bryce FanAdvisor: Ms. Jill ButlerContributing Journalists: Eleni Comstock, Simrin Bains, Alex Rocha, Zhi Yang Tan, Kaylee Vandagriff, Anika Chimni, Celeste Burns, Jungyoon Yu, Steven Chang, Marc Gauthier, Karen Chang, Dave Keshishian, Annette Lipski, Mallika Pahwa, Jimmy Kim, David Jue, Connie Zhou, Holly Prynn, CC Ezeh, and Aashna AvachatFeatured Clubs: French Club

©2011 The 4.7 Magazine All Rights Reserved

Phot

o: M

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or th

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FEATURED STORIES

7 | Get 100% on the STARby Simrin Bains

8 | ASB Student Electionsby Bryce Fan

10 | 2012by Zhi Yang Tan

15 | The SolarBallby Karen Chang

Want to join the 4.7 Magazine Team?

Contact us at the4point7@gmail.com

The 4.7 team, celebrating the first issue release.

4

NATIONAL

Yellowstone Super VolcanoBy Jungyoon YuA new image of the Yellowstone supervolcano suggests that this ancient volcano is actually bigger than scientists thought. A study says nothing about the chances of a destructive eruption at Yellowstone, but it provides scientists with a valuable new outlook on the Yellowstone supervolcano that causes aggressive eruptions. The last eruption occurred more than 640,000 years ago.! This supervolcano was previously measured at about 25 miles by 37 miles wide. It’s scary to have a supervolcano that is bigger than the measurements scientists have recorded just a few years ago. Also, this volcano has been active in the recent years. According to National Geographic, some areas of Yellowstone have risen as much as much as ten inches as a result of the swelling magma.! To find the how big the supervolcano was, they used a method called magnetic imaging. Scientists have theorized that the plume feeding the massive volcano could extend way further than the seismic measurements taken in 2009. The British Broadcasting Corp. (BBC) wrote, “The new study, using electrical conductivity, can only see about 320km (200mi) below ground. But it shows the conductive part of the plume dipping more gently, at an angle of perhaps 40 degrees to the west, and extending perhaps 640 km (400 miles) from east to west.”! Since the ground has been swelling (even right now), this could mean a sign of an eruption. The last eruption that occurred 640,000 years ago, caused a mile-wide crater.

What’s happening?INTERNATIONALFour Deaths in a Smuggling Tunnel Near Gaza-Egypt BorderJungyoon Yu

A few medics in Gaza found four Palestinians dead in a smuggling tunnel near the Gaza-Egypt border. Authorities with a political Palestinian group announced that the four men died from the toxic fumes from a missile a few days ago. The purpose of this missile launch was to calm down the recent wave of violence in the Gaza Strip. In the past, other smugglers suffocated while trying to illegally bring fuel to Gaza. This was a terrifying event, however, this will help improve Gaza and Egypt’s border to prevent further dangerous activity from occurring.

‘Some areas of Yellowstone have risen as much as ten inches as a result of the swelling magma.’

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC, on the dangers of the Yellowstone Super Volcano.

Photos: frogview.com;2012shelteredtechnologies.synthasite.com

419NUMBER OF VIEWS on the 4.7 Online Issue (Vol.1, No. 1) As of April 28th, 2011

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PMS Clubs: French Club InterviewBy Marc GauthierWell, let’s think… how many of us have been to the French Club? Not many. How many of us have even heard of the French Club? Even less. Well, I didn’t know much about it either. That’s why I did an interview of a few people from the French Club.

Emily (President):

What do you like about the French club?A: “I like the activities!”

What specific activities have you done?A: “We did face painting… and we also did bon-bon sales!”

What else do you do in the French Club?A: “We talk about French holidays.”

Lisa (member):

What do you like about the French club?A: “Truthfully… the free food!”

Have there been any fun activities?A: I think that making the “you got phished!” was really fun!

Is there anything else that you would like to say to any future members?A: The French clubs is fun because you get to do a lot of activities and we go on a field trip!

What are you doing for the field trip?A: We are going to the bakery by the Tully’s Coffee downtown, get some French cake, and walk to Mission Hills Park!

Photos: MARC Gauthier for the 4.7

Drama and Conflict>>BY ANIKA CHIMNI! Being a teenager is not the easiest thing. You have to deal with drama, puberty, and middle school relationships. This month I will be talking about drama :). In middle school there is a lot of drama. Some things you can do about it is, one not get involved, two talk it out, or three just ignore it and they will stop because you are not bothered by it. Expect that there will be a lot of drama in middle and high school, but that’s one thing that never changes throughout your whole life. The best thing to do with drama is not to care about it. You have

your true friends and they will believe and trust you with everything. Just trust your friends and they will trust you. If they are your best friends they may tease you, but will also be there for you when times are rough. One thing I know is that drama is undesirable, but no matter what happens, you should always stay positive . Know that no matter what, there is light at the end of the tunnel. If you ever have some difficulties, ask our Advice Column and Mallika Pahwa. We’ll solve your problem in no time.

FRENCH CLUB

“One thing that I really enjoy

about the French club is that all the 6th, 7th, and 8th graders are doing fun activities together and that we can learn more about the

French culture because we can’t do much of that in

class!’’

MADAM ARCURI, French Teacher, World Languages Teacher, and French Club

Advisor at Pleasanton Middle school on how much she enjoys being the advisor of

the French Club..

TEENMONTHLY

6

Cool Stuff

1.Sadly, these trains don’t exist in this world. Yet.Last December, a prototype passenger train between Shanghai and Beijing reached 302mph, breaking the world record for an unmodified commercial-use high speed rail. Nations around the world have high-speed rail. Right now, the US is trying to play catchup by investing $53 billion in high-speed rail. The rail plan for California stretches over 2,000 miles while going at 220 mph. However, these trains are still not fast enough for “vactrains”, which are maglevs on steroids (inside a vaccum). Darl Oster, founder of a company that develops vactrains, claims that his model can travel at a speed of 4,000 mph and can go from LA to NY in 41 minutes. That is faster than a bullet! Will this be a reality, though? We’ll just have to wait to find out.

By Arthur Hwang

2.Make Your Own Guitar

Picks Many great guitarists

have often found themselves without a

pick. In one incident, guitarist Ronnie Wood

forgot his and used a cereal packet instead.

The Pickmaster Plectrum Punch is a machine which was made to punch out perfect, standard size guitar picks with virtually any material, from credit cards to milk cartons. As long as it’s the right material, it’s as good as any shop bought guitar picks. Even Mr. Whitney would want this for his guitar.

3.Flying Cars in 2011?Flying Car company Terrafugia has announced that the Transition Roadable Aircraft they developed will ship to customers by 2011. You can drive the aircraft on road, and take off in the air whenever you want to. This company was founded in 2006 by reputable, MIT-trained aeronautical engineers and pilots. Currently, Terrafugia is accepting aircraft reservations for $10,000.

Photos: Courtesy of Pickmaster, Popular Science, and Terrafugia

LA to New York in 41 Minutes???

7

I have noticed that many students at Pleasanton Middle School have hard times with tests and quizzes. There is no

reason for you to worry! Ms. Butler’s classes created a helpful list of ways to study to ensure success on tests and

quizzes! (If you need a new testing strategy, perhaps these may be beneficial:).BY SIMRIN BAINS

A Guaranteed 100% on the STAR Test!!! *

*DISCLAIMER: 4.7 is not liable for any scores lower than 100%.

1. Pay close attention to any class discussion.2. Use the process of elimination. First, get rid of what obviously seems

like an incorrect answer.

3. Look for the “big ideas” during any class discussion.

4. If it is a chapter test, re-read the chapter thoroughly.

5. After any quiz or test, go back and check your answers.

6.If the test/quiz is given back, write the

questions and answers that you missed.

This will help you remember them.

7. Make flashcards for the confusing areas or major concepts and study

them before the test.8. When your teacher assigns you homework to read,

PLEASE MAKE SURE TO READ IT!

9. TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS!

8

! Excitement.! Competition.

! Enthusiasm.

These words best describe what began on April 18th, 2011—Pleasanton Middle School’s ASB Elections. With over fifteen candidates in total, colorful posters filled the halls and walkways of Pleasanton Middle School; a healthy competitive atmosphere was easily portrayed. However, along with competition came enthusiasm and excitement, and students around Pleasanton Middle School seemed delighted to have the return of the ASB elections.

While various candidates ran for other positions, a total of six

candidates were running for President: Andrew Alviar, Arthur Hwang, Connie Zhou, Nikitha Reddy, Nima Habibi, and Jacqueline Wood, all whom displayed great compassion with their campaigns. Lisa DeFeo, Kim Carassco, and Laurette Hanna ran for Spirit Commissioner. Jason Tamasu, Eli Merkadeau, Brookey Villanueva, and Soha Ashraf ran for treasurer. People all around Pleasanton Middle School supported who they felt would be the best candidate and it was clearly evident that nobody would win easily. All candidates had a fair amount of supporters and informational flyers were passed out to everyone.

Despite the long hard fought race for all candidates, it was clearly evident that Ms. Loren Roundtree had to put

up the hardest fight: against herself. As the only candidate running for secretary, Ms. Roundtree easily won the race for secretary. Congratulations to Loren!

For Spirit Commissioner, Lisa DeFeo, Kim Carassco, and Laurette Hanna were all fantastic candidates and showed outstanding spirit for the school. All candidates were very organized with their campaigns and did an outstanding job overall. “All candidates seemed good and it was hard to make a decision,” says Zhi Yang Tan.

Another main campaign race was for the Treasurer position: a total of four candidates ran: Brookey Villaneuva, Eli Merkadeau, Jason Tamasu, and Soha Ashraf, all whom seemed very

Changing of the Guard

Arthur HwangASB President

Jacqueline WoodASB Vice President

Pleasanton Middle School elects new ASB Officers

9

qualified for their position. Additionally, their speeches were done outstandingly and I was very impressed how the candidates explained what they were going to do with the money ASB was given.

The race for the top of the ASB hierarchy-- President-- had six strong candidates: Arthur Hwang, Andrew Alviar, Jacqueline Wood, Connie Zhou, Nima Habibi, and Nikitha Reddy. All of the candidates had very colorful, awesome posters and slogans, and it was clearly evident that nobody was going to win easily. “I promised so many people that I would vote for them but now I can’t decide!” says Hayley Trillo, a seventh grader is Ms. Butler’s block class. Seventh grader Savannah Gray had a

hard time deciding too. “All of them seemed really good!” she said. Well, seems like Savannah was right: All candidates really did an excellent job and it was clearly not an easy win for any of the candidates.

However, in the end, the following candidates proved victorious:

President: Arthur HwangVice President: Jacqui WoodSecretary: Loren RoundtreeTreasurer: Brookey VillanuevaSpirit Commissioner: Kim Carassco

Congratulations to all ASB Winners, and to the candidates who put forth an outstanding effort in running for office. The 4.7 Magazine applauds all of you for doing an excellent job.

Brookey VillanuevaASB Treasurer

Loren RoundtreeASB Secretary

Kim CarasscoASB Spirit Commissioner

“It’s hard. It’s tough. You know what I mean? Everyone’s watching your every move and if you do something wrong, everybody jumps on it.”

CAMERON FREEMAN, President, on what it’s like to be President.

10

BY ZHI YANG TAN

! 2012 is a year that is supposedly going to mark the end of the world. People will die, the magnetic poles will shift, and life as we know it will cease to exist. The movie 2012 dramatized this, where only a few hundred people were left in the aftermath of the destruction. However, can this myth really be true?! The origins of this prophecy date back a long way, to the Ancient Mayans. The Mayans had their own calendar system, called the b'ak'tun. This calendar lasted about 394 years. Mayan legend has it that that the last world ended when it reached the end of its 13th b'ak'tun, and that this world will end when it reaches its 13th b'ak'tun. The end of the 13th b'ak'tun, in the Gregorian calendar, is December 21, 2012.! There are many theories about what is going to happen

on 12/21/12, one of which is the "galactic alignment" theory. In the "galactic alignment" theory, the planets will all line up with each other. Although there seems to be no threat, one must look at the fossil record to see a pattern. Mass extinctions of species are not random; in fact, they occur every 20-25 million years, when the sun passes through a certain point in space, called the galactic disc. According to the theory, this passing of the sun through the galactic disc is going to coincide with the galactic alignment; and humanity may be the species that is wiped out.! The second theory is the "geomagnetic reversal". The theory states that on 12/21/12. a massive solar flare(a large amount of energy released from the sun) will hit Earth's magnetic field, which will cause the poles to switch. As a result of this, all compasses would point south, not north. This switch will also release an amount of energy

equal to 100 billion times the energy released by the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima in World War 2.! No matter how real these theories may seem, they have both been proven wrong. The "galactic alignment" theory has been proven wrong because the sun has already passed through 3 million years ago, so the next mass extinction will have place 17-22 million years from now. The "geomagnetic reversal" theory has been proven wrong because the switching of the poles does not happen immediately; they take up to 7000 years to complete.! Although these theories have been debunked, no one knows for sure what will happen in 2012. Until the day arrives, we can only speculate what will happen.

Photos Nahright.com

11

150th Anniversary of the Civil WarSeven scores and a decade

ago, on April 12, 1861, the

first shot on Fort Sumter in

South Carolina started the

Civil War that would change

the United States forever. A

significant event like the

firing on Fort Sumter is

important to know about. As

the people that make up the

United States of America, it

is important to know the

history of the Civil War -- the

war that might have

changed the U.S. the most. It

was a war of the

preservation of the Union,

the liberation of slaves, and

another attempt to show that racism is worth nothing, proven especially during the Civil War. It

was an equal challenge for both the Union and the Confederacy because both had their own

advantages. While the Union had more supplies, the Confederacy

had more able generals. However, the component that had been

most successful in helping the Union win was Abraham Lincoln.

He had signed the Emancipation Proclamation. It had freed all the

slaves in the states of the Confederacy: South Carolina, Georgia,

Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, North Carolina,

Virginia, Tennessee, and Arkansas. This proclamation had no

effect on the Confederacy directly, but it had a great impact on

their foundation of the war, slavery. Slaves had begun to hear of

what the Emancipation Proclamation had done for them, and

started running for the Union side of the continent. Eventually,

African-Americans, including former slaves, were being drafted

into the army. They were the best soldiers of the Union for they

had more motivation. Free African-Americans had become part of

the foundation of the Union in the Civil War. Though the Civil

War was a bloody one, it was a great milestone towards the

freedom of all men and women of all races and ethnicities. To

honor the deceased of the Civil War and the battles

themselves, people are reenacting the battles the Americans

went through where the battles had occurred.

Courtesy to lincolnswords.com

Courtesy to loc.gov

12

WHAT PEOPLE WOULD DO FOR

FAME By Connie Zhou

Act against the law. ! So many people dream to be rich and famous. However, doing illegal things to earn fame provides the separation. Being famous is completely different from being infamous. Merriam-Webster states that infamous means “having a reputation of the worst kind; disgraceful”. Marion Jones is perhaps one of the most infamous of these cases in the recent past. On October 2007, the woman that many had begun to see as a superstar admitted to have taken steroids. Not only has she had to forfeit her five medals won from the 2000 Sydney Olympics and been to jail, but now, when people think of her, it is in disgust rather than respect. ! Some do drugs and other illegal substances or some commit crimes—for example, Lindsay Lohan. Doing these terrible things probably will not only ruin you the rest of your life, but every career you are interviewed for will probably be marred by your reputation.  Out of all the people who have cheated or gone against the law, so many have been caught and convicted. ! If we want to create a legacy for ourselves, we should do it the right way. Had Marion Jones won those medals in the honest way, people would have looked back at her and said, “Isn’t that the woman that was a great runner?” Instead, we recall her as, “Isn’t that the woman that did steroids?” If people thought of the consequences first before making any move, they would probably be able to lead a better life.

Make a fool of him or herself. ! Some of us know of the incident where a sixty-year old man went to Britain’s Got Talent to try out for dancing. The few of us that have watched that were either laughing at him or just shocked. Andy Demetriou stood on the stage and swayed through his entire performance. And now, the world knows his name. Would it be better to stay unknown and keep a good reputation or to be known to the world as a fool? Evidently, the world has decided the latter is better. Why? Maybe it is to feel that you have a place in life. Everyone wants to feel like they belong; some will completely adopt a different personality to be accepted. Or maybe it is just to get a couple of laughs. But in the end, a little joke could probably end up biting you back. Now, Andy will probably be mocked for the incident for the rest of his life. Evidently, there are more things that people would do to reach fame, but as of right now, the most prevalent are the above two.! Fame is coveted. “Fame is a vapor, popularity an accident, and riches take wings. Only one thing endures and that is character.” says Horace Greeley. This quote is so true, but as with everything, there are always exceptions. Jennifer Aniston will be famous forever just as will Charlie Sheen. But they will be known for polar-opposite reasons. However, sometimes history has a way of rearranging things so that the ugly is painted over and the beauty is magnified. So sometimes, a rash bid for fame will be forgotten as well. ! However, fame is not needed, nor is it valuable. In reality, fame is just “the advantage of being known by people of whom you yourself know nothing, and for whom you care as little.” Lord Byron.

opinion

School UniformsBy: Aashna Avachat

Many schools have been considering uniforms. There is a large controversy over this subject, and students in Pleasanton Middle School were asked whether or not they wanted uniforms. The survey showed about one out of every ten students wanted uniforms. Still, many others were surprised that some students actually wanted them.

“Uniforms kills creativity,” they all agreed. “You can’t show off your own, unique style with uniforms.” The pros and cons of uniforms are discussed by almost every school. One reason why schools want to have uniforms is so that those living in poverty and can’t afford schools have a proper outfit to wear in school. Additionally, nobody can tease you about your style or what you wear.

The cons, on the other hand, are as follows: Student’s can’t be original, since everyone is wearing the same thing. You cant be creative anymore when everyone looks like clones!

Actually, for many schools, that’s not the case. You are allowed to accessorize as much as you want, as long as it’s appropriate. But kids still say that even though you can accessorize, everyone still looks the same. Apparently, the school distric agrees, since we don’t have uniforms yet. And hopefully, from most of the student’s points of view, the school won’t change it’s policy.

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13

The Failing Grade.BY CC EZEHDo you remember a moment when you didn’t study for a test? Fear took over your whole body. You know for sure that you won’t pass. You procrastinated until the last minute, AGAIN. The result is a big fat F. We’ve all been through this stage, where you say you’ll do well on a test. However, you fail. It’s natural to feel devastated after a test. Remember there is always a next time. Why did you fail? Maybe it was because you waited until the last minute to study or you didn’t read the directions and questions carefully. Most of all, maybe you didn’t even care. One of these three reasons might be why you failed.

Waiting Until the Last MinuteStudying for a test is the only way of passing. By studying, you are teaching your brain habits and techniques that will help you in the test. When

you’re studying, don’t just look at the textbook for five minutes and say you’re ready for the test. Sit down and actually read the chapter. After rereading the chapter, answer the questions that follow. One of the questions is bound to be on the test. Study hard!If studying alone is difficult for you, form a study group. Other members of the study group can help answer your questions. Maybe you don’t understand an algebraic equation, but one of the members do. They could easily teach you the concept.

Read the Directions CarefullyDid you miss that problem because you didn’t read the directions carefully? Yes, this happens to all of us. If you don’t read the directions thoroughly, you could easily make a foolish mistake. How do you make sure you didn’t make a mistake? Simple. After you’re done with your test, and if time allows, go back and check your answers. If you’re taking a large examand there is no time to check all fifty pages of questions, re-check the few questions you had trouble on. Perhaps this question is challenging and you

have no clue what the answer is. Don’t randomly guess. Make an educated guess. Eliminate the obviously wrong answers. Then reason out why one answer can’t be the correct answer. Finding one flaw in the answer that you know for a fact can’t be the true answer, should tell you that the remaining answer is the right one.

It Doesn’t Matter.Many kids give up right after they have failed a test. Don’t give up. There is always next time. Failing a test is actually good in a way. A failing test tells you that whatever strategy you were using that time, obviously doesn’t work. Whether it was studying at 1:00 AM in the morning or studying in front of the TV, learning new things is what life is all about. Have confidence that you will succeed on your next test. Even if you got a 33% on your last test. In the end, grades would matter. Elementary to middle school is only the beginning. When you get into high school, grades start to count. Therefore, it is better to create a strong foundation for high school in middle school. Build up your foundation by having good study habits like studying for every test you have. Grades do matter.Next time you have a test, say these three statements to yourself: 1. “I am smarter than who I was before.” 2. “I am capable of doing things out of this world.” 3. “I will pass the test!”-CC EZEH

Photo courtesy of seatongarrett

14

tech

So, Will 2011 Be the Year of the Tablet? And Just How Might These Soon Be Taking Over Schools?By Jimmy Kim and David Jue

! 2010 was supposed to be the year that companies would amaze us with loads of new tablet computers. This, however, never happened, as many companies were waiting for Google to develop a more tablet-friendly operating system. Instead, in April, Apple released the iPad, and thus 2010 became the year of the iPad.! Now, once more, 2011 will become the true year of the tablet. This time, several new models have either been released or are in a very advanced state of preview. Among these sleek new tablets are Windows-based tablets as well. Three tablets that will most likely be among the top of tablet computers are the Motorola Xoom, Apple’s iPad 2 (which has been recently released), and the Samsung Galaxy Tab (which has been released as well).One of the newer contenders in the tablet market is the Motorola Xoom. It has a magnificent 10.1 inch display with 1280x800 pixels which makes this machine a graphics monster! Since the Xoom has a larger display, it would be natural for it to be slightly heavier. At just 730 grams (1.6 pounds), this could easily be seen as a portable device. The Motorola Xoom has astonishing battery life with its browsing on the internet coming in at 10 hours (9 hours with the 3G). It also has music playback for up

to 3.3 days. The newest aspect of the tablet is the cameras. It has a 5 megapixel camera and a 2 megapixel webcam. The downside of the device is its pricing. The Motorola Xoom starts at $799.99 but you can get a $599.99 one with only wi-fi. These devices have 32 GB of storage which makes it about on par with the iPad 2.! The iPad 2 is almost the same thing as the Motorola Xoom—the battery life, processor (both have a 1 GHz processor) and its video capabilities. iPad 2’s size is almost the same at 9.7 inches and weighs only 1.3 pounds. It also includes a 3-axis gyroscope which allows gamers for a more precise movement. One downside of the iPad is that it only has a screen resolution of 1024x768. This isn’t a major affect because the screen is slightly smaller. Now, most of these specs won’t change your mind about what to get.! Most people choose which ever are cooler looking. What makes the iPad 2 stand out more is that it has full access to the App Store which has over 350,000 apps. It also begins at a cheaper price at just $500 for a wifi version and $630 for a 3G which allows for your preference of AT&T or Verizon networks.! Lately there have been commercials about the new Galaxy Tab. Is it worth the $299.99 with a contract? ($499.99 without a contract) It is virtually the same as the other tablets, only two inches smaller. It runs on the

Android operating system 2.2 Froyo. The choice of the tablets come down to what you think is the best.! But let’s say that these (and more) tablets spark lots of interest on tablet computers. How might that affect us as students? There have been several fairly recent test among schools (especially colleges) that involve using tablet-computers in class. Basically, it’s a program akin to that of our school’s laptop program. The only difference is that tablet computers are much lighter and convenient, and as demonstrated by the iPad, have an excellent amount of battery life. They eliminate the need for heavy textbooks and other school recourses that just take up space when they can just be converted into an app on a tablet computer. Also, your teacher will be less grumpy each day without the need to be carrying bins home overloaded with homework and the need to worry about losing some of them. Bottom-line: back pain relief and stress relief for everyone (maybe even brain pain relief). If 2011 increases interest in tablets, in later years, this program might just be implemented into schools along with controls on what a student can or can’t access. ! So now we’ll just have to wait and see. Which company will release the leading tablet? How far will tablet computer technology get this year? These will all be answered as 2011 comes and goes. Stay tuned.

Photos: socialwizz.com

Will 2011 Be the Year of the Tablet? If So, Just How Might These Soon Be Taking Over Schools?By Jimmy Kim and David Jue

15

Nin

tend

o

AS A PHONE?

Nintendo NOT Joining Phone Companies...

Is it possible for the Nintendo Company to make a phone with Nintendo DS (DS stand for Dual Screen or Developer’s System) games? Nope, at least not right now. Sony and Microsoft Companies, rivalry of Nintendo, for entertainment purposes have made their way in making a phone which is in process. But, Nintendo refuses to do so.

Since the high expense cost being manufacturing as a cell phone - will always be a downfall in technology.

Although, Nintendo is interested, this would affect how they make their products. Like the retail pricing of the Nintendo Company games.

“We don’t see that as an opportunity. Phones are utilities. Phones are not by definition entertainment devices,” said Reginald “Reggie” Fils – Aime, President and Chief Operating Officer of Nintendo of America. “We don’t want to be in the phone business.”

Recently, Nintendo has been criticizing to smart phone game makers that the quality of the games isn’t that appealing due to its inability to provide the best entertainment.

However, Fils - Aime from Nintendo, did not throw out the idea that they might start a Wireless Connection with AT&T. People who have bought the new Nintendo 3DS will get free access to AT&T’s public hot spots of the United States, which will start in May of 2011.

AT&T allowing Nintendo have over 10,000 available (Wi-Fi Hot Spot) internet.

! Mock Nintendo Phones (To the left)

By: Karen Chang

Photos Courtesy of Nintendo

16

BY: KAREN CHANG

Many third world countries are suffering due to dehydration. Nearly 80% of diseases and sicknesses develop where people don’t have portable, clean water. Many people are dying because when they do drink, they drink contaminated water. Available, clean water is considered one of the most scarce resources on the planet. However, with the Solarball, the world has the potential to become a better place. Solarball may look like a hamster toy, but is much more useful than that.

Jonathan Liow (to the right) who is the inventor of this idea. Originally came from a musician point of view, Liow was a part of a band at that time and had the chance to go to Cambodia. When his band got there, he saw people suffering. Cambodians put a plastic sheet over the heap of rice, to preserve. They didn’t have proper place to store there food. That was when Jonathan thought he could have a career building things that would help people in the world. He decided to make a purifier to help decontaminate the water supply for people. A friend of Liow’s, spent some time in Ethiopia, Africa as a photographer, and showed what needed to be done there. There was plenty of polluted water there. This led to the Solarball.

This device can provide up to 3 liters of clean water per day, depending on how hot the temperature is. This could hydrate a grown adult. The Solarball is 100% sustainable and the material to make this great product is all recyclable. It also has a long lifespan when it is in the harsh sun all day long.

The Solarball is a spherical shape, designed to be easily carried. The shape of the Solarball also, lets in all the heat/light to come in 360 degrees. This solar

sphere is compact to be most efficient in storing heat.

How does it work? It’s actually easy to follow. You insert dirty water, and leave out in the sun. The regular water cycle does the rest. Evaporation occurs, which then on the top of the Solarball, condensation appears, forming your drinkable water.

Jonathan Liow, is still in the process of fixing minor defaults, but, plans to have the completed, finished Solarball in early 2012.

New Technology That Can Revive The World’s Thirst...

Solarbal l

The Solarball: The blue knob is where you twist and

clean water will come out.

Photos Courtesy of Solarball

17

Dear CONFUSED FRIEND,

Well, to me it seems like this is a very big problem! But I can give you a solution. Firstly, you said there was emotional and physical pain involved. Now I understand emotional pain because everyone gets that and you cannot control emotional pain, but physical pain? If there was physical pain, you have to talk to someone who can take control of the situation. If physical pain has happened to you by this person, it is a form of harassment and needs to be reported immediately. Also, if the person has not done any physical pain to you, but you have

done some to yourself out of depression, you need someone to talk to and hurting yourself will not help you. Always remember that. Additionally, you said the person you had a fight with is trying to be friends again and quite clearly you do not want to, but you don’t want for you guys to be enemies either. I get you. I know what you mean. Now maybe this person thinks that they are just being nice and they do not want to be friends either. Maybe they just don’t want to give you dirty looks! However if they are trying to be your friend and you know it, the best thing to do would to talk to them and sort it out. I’m sure they only wish the

best for you. I think this will work and the two of you can go your separate ways and not arguing with each other and enjoying your school year at Pleasanton Middle School. :)

Advice for YOU!

ADVICE COLUMN

Solutions for everything.Let me solve your problems :)ADVICE FOR YOU FROM Little Miss Pahwa!

Sincerely,

Little Miss PahwaPMS 4.7 Magazine Advice

Column Advisor

MALLIKA.

Dear Ms. Pahwa,My friend and I have recently gotten in a fight and it was a huge one including emotional and physical pain. We both decided to not hold a grudge but to move on and have different friends. Recently though, I have been finding that she wants to be friends again and I really do not want to. Please help me.Sincerely,Confused Friend.

18

storytimeSLEEP

>>chapter  t*o:  BROKEN

TORAI walked forlornly down the empty road, the sounds of my shoes scuffing against the ground as it gradually changed, the gravel of the road turned to the worn wood of the pier. I bit my lip as I remembered the many times Kibo and I had walked down this same path, it was almost always busy, filled with shoppers, tourists, and cheery merchants. But now it was filled with… Me. !I reached the end of the pier; the ocean was calm, the waves small and quiet. I sat down and slipped my bare feet into the water, the ripples caused several fish to come up to investigate. At least you guys survived…. Whatever happened. I thought. I leaned back, looking at the sky. It was blue. Just blue. Not cloudy, or dark, but a gentle shade of blue. It was this that triggered the thought, what am I doing? Kibo might be out there, looking for me, waiting, and all I can do is sit on the pier feeling sorry for myself? What is wrong with me? I pulled my feet out of the water and jumped up. If I was here, there must be someone else, right?Picture from flikr.comKIBOI shifted in the uncomfortable chair next to my sister’s bed, the steady beeping of the monitor made me antsy. It reminded me of those reality shows where people go to the hospital and fall asleep, but then they never wake up. I mentally

shook myself, that’s never gonna happen I thought, forcing the idea of Tora dying out of my mind. I knew it was a possibility, but I refused to believe it would ever be reality.

!As soon as I settled in the chair, a nurse walked in with a clipboard, she changed the I.V. bag, recorded the heart rate, and checked the blood pressure of my sister. When she turned to leave she looked at me with a sweet smile before closing the door. It took all I had not to jump up and scream at her, ask her why she would be smiling. My sister was in a coma, and she was smiling? What was wrong with these people? !My dad walked in a while later, sitting in the larger,

yet still uncomfortable, chair next to me. I could see he was tired just from his expression, but I knew if I were to say anything, he wouldn’t admit to it. My dad’s strong like that, no matter what the circumstance, we came first. I always wanted to be just like him, so that one day, when he got old and couldn’t do much anymore, I would be strong. I would help him . But how was I ever going to help him if I couldn’t even help my little sister?

TORA!I ran faster; my long black hair trailing behind me. My bare feet beating the ground, packing the soil together. My breath came out in short bursts that were spaced out just enough for me to suck in a mouthful of air. The wind blew at my face as I ran, making it seem as if I were moving slower. The scenery rushed past, my eyes were almost shut, but I didn’t slow down, I knew what I had to do, maybe my only hope. I had to get to the radio tower. !I reached the building. It looked old and neglected, and the mortar was more green than it was grey. I pushed the door open to find the inside clean as it would have been if there were people in it. !I reached the broadcast room, and found, unlike on television shows, there were many buttons

that were all labeled and colored. I flipped the Broadcast switch, and then both the AM and XM switches. I found one of the microphones and pulled on some headphones. I sighed and thought to myself here we go...!“This is Tora Kōken'nin, I am broadcasting on all AM and XM frequencies. I am Northern California. If anyone out there is listening, I will be on the pier in Jamestown every day, from dawn to noon. So please, anyone, if you can hear me, please.” I finished, and took off the headphones, turning off the ‘On Air’ switch. !I walked slowly outside, my eyes betraying me, making my face wet with tears. !I reached the end of the street. It split into a fork, I chose the right side, because the left was darker, and the sun was going down, so I wasn’t gonna chance it. I turned the corner, to see a lifeless lump on the side of the road, I cautiously walked towards it, and as I came closer I realized it was…!“No…” I whispered as I got to his motionless body…;KIBO!I opened my eyes drearily, and as soon as I heard the slow beeping of the monitor, I was wide awake, mentally kicking myself for falling asleep. I got up and went to my sister’s side; she looked just as still and sleepy as she did before. But now, as I held her hand in mine, the steady beeping of the monitor became faster, closer together. !I freaked out, calling in the nurse, dropping my sister’s hand as the quick, short beeping turned to a single long beep. The little mountains turned to a single red line, slicing straight through my heart. Nurses raced in to her side, and I saw the world going darker around me. The edges of my vision becoming fuzzy, black enclosed me. I felt like I was falling. !~To be continued….

With a pen in hand-

Kaylee Vandagriff

Hey Everyone! I’m pleased to be bringing you the second chapter of my story, “Sleep”, about Kibo and Tora, two dedicated brothers and sisters. However, I plan to make some different twists to the story, and I’d love to hear your comments about it. So, flash me an e-mail at monkeyvgriff@comcast.net with suggestions or comments about my stories or what I should write next. Enjoy the second chapter of “Sleep” and I look forward to reading all of your comments and suggestions. See you around! -KAYLEE VANDAGRIFF

Photo: Flickr.com

19

A new Friend for A new

Year >>by  Celeste  Bur4s

! The boy walked through the dense and unfamiliar woods, his worn Vans thudding softly with each step. He was simply taking a midnight stroll after a night of tossing and turning, but somehow was steered off the beaten path and into the woods. He was lost in a world of his own somewhere deep in his head, a place where any twelve-year-old could get lost for hours and dreaming the most magnificent of things. There existed the fastest of cars and coolest of crazy parties, including the one his mother had refused to let him go to at Christmas time. But now the exciting holiday had past and he had spent all of the day before thinking about what would come of the next year.His feet paused and turned him around as he snapped out of his reverie and looked at what seemed an endless path of trees, bushes, and dirt trampled by animals running through the forest. His breathing suddenly became slightly ragged as he realized that he could not remember which way was home.

His eyes searched the area, desperately looking for a landmark of any type. Normally, he would not have been scared of these woods for he had lived in them his entire life and practically knew most of it by heart. But that had only been the parts nearest his house.Beyond that, there was known to be creatures that wouldn’t hesitate to kill him if they felt threatened. He continued searching the numerous trees until his heart leapt into gear as his brown eyes met with a pair of bright green ones.There, lying on the floor of the forest was a healthy looking dog with a beautiful shade of russet brown fur. The animal whimpered slightly and scooted forward so that he could rest his jaw on a root of a tall pine.! The boy smiled and watched as the large dog rolled over with his legs were in the air and tilted his head back to watch him.! Hesitantly, he reached a hand down to grab a fallen branch, aware that this animal was friendly, but still wild. He brought the branch behind his head and launched it forward. The dog scurried to his feet and sprinted toward it. He picked it up in his muzzle and ran at full speed back. The boy warily took a step back as the dog came and dropped the stick at his feet. He then backed up again, whimpering for another throw.

! For the rest of the long night, the boy continued to play with his new companion, relishing the feel of a new friend to spend the year with. One after the next, each time a little more confidently, his hand sent that stick plummeting through the trees and every time his new friend went and got it back for another. The boy smiled again, realizing that all he needed for the year to come was a new friend, specifically this one.

Thanks for reading and I look forward to another story next issue-

-Celeste

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The OceanBY: ALEXANDER ROCHA

 

Elegant water swirls in the crisp air,

The ocean is a place of tranquility,

But with beauty and elegance comes power,

And mysteries like a newly blossoming flower.

 

The stupefying power of cascading waves that crash,

It can destroy all in its path with one final smash,

Leaving devastation in its wake,

It must soon cease for one’s sake.

 

But the ocean is extremely mystifying,

Its surface shimmers like an aquamarine jewel,

Reflective patterns divert from what is lurking under its

surface,

The waves wait inevitably for the time of haste.

 

As it drags you down into the depth of the sea,

You gasp at its spectacular complexity,

Vibrant green seaweed drift and twirl like pirouetting ballerinas,

Textured coral layers the seabed like a diverse living carpet.

 

The beauty of the ocean,

It will never be truly found,

Like a silver fish cutting through the crystal water gracefully like a

blade,

The ocean can never be contained.

Photo:

The Backstage PassBY HOLLY PRYNN

CHAPTER 1What do you think of when you go to the zoo? For me I think of animals that are in a huge cage. That just sound boring. However, if you have ever been in the San Diego area, they have the San Diego Zoo. The San Diego Zoo have one of the best programs ever! It’s called the Backstage Pass.! In the Backstage Pass, you get to be up close and personal with some of the most interesting animals, such as: a kookaburra (A.K.A. the laughing bird), clouded leopard, rhino’s, white wolf, a cheetah and a dog, flamingos, and a kangaroo. ! The first animal that you see is the kookaburra. The trainer holding the bird tells us about him. The bird’s name is Crikey. The story behind his name is the Crocodile Hunter. They noticed how the Crocodile Hunter always said “Crikey!” The trainers thought that it was a funny word, so decided to give that name to the laughing bird.A kookaburra is brown and has a big beak. This bird doesn’t have the nickname “laughing bird” for nothing. The kookaburra’s call actually sounds like it’s laughing. So if one of your friends told you a joke that made you laugh, that would be sort of like what the kookaburra sounds like.! While at the Backstage Pass everyone got into their seats, trying to make Crikey do its call. The audience rolled our tongue. We needed to roll our tongues like we roll our r’s. It took a minute or so to get Crikey going. ! When he started his call, the audience became quiet. A dog from across the area called back. Crikey and the dog ended up having a mini conversation. When Crikey went back inside, a little Clouded Leopard came out.

Holly PrynnChapter 2 coming soon…

21

riddletime With Dave Keshishian and Eleni Comstock

Give me food I live,give me water I die.What am I?

Lighter than a feather, there is nothing in it. Yet the strongest man in the world can’t hold it much more in a minute.

What sits on the corner of something and can travel around the world?

1.! One man held a contest to see which man could fill the room using the least possible money and utensils. One man, very arrogant, spent almost all his money to buy bricks that filled the room top to bottom and wall to wall. But, there was spaces in between the bricks so he did not fill the room. Then there was a poor man who bought two things and filled the room… what were the things… how did he fill the room?

2.! Why can’t a man, who is living in Canada, be buried in the U.S.A?

3.! A woman is trapped in a room with two doors. One door bears a fire bearing dragon the other door bears a large magnifying glass with the blazing sun behind it and will make fire to anyone that enters. How does she escape?

4.! Someone has stolen Beethoven's Wig and has put it in one of four locked boxes. The boxes are numbered from 1,2,3,4 in that order. There are four different keys that each has their own color.Use the clues below to figure out which key goes in which box and to find the box where Beethoven's wig is being kept.1. The green key goes to the third or fourth box2. The wig is to the left of the fourth box3. The wig is to the right of the first box4. The yellow key is to the left of the wig5. The blue key is to the right of the yellow key and to the left of the green key6. The red key goes to the first box

Answers:1. The things were a candle and a match and the light filled the room!2. He is still alive!3. Go out the first door at nighttime!4. The wig is in the third boxThe red key goes to the first boxThe yellow key goes to the second boxThe blue key goes to the third boxThe green key goes to the fourth box

A: Fire

A: Breath

A: A postage stamp (on the corner of an envelope)

22

4.7Want to join the 4.7 Magazine PMS?

No problem.

Every Wednesday, come to room 310 from after school until 4:30. You can come check out what we do as a club, and if you like what you see, you’re more than welcome to contribute to an issue anytime. Our Magazine Club is open to anybody, and if you are interested in joining, don’t hesitate to come.

So, just contact us at the4point7@gmail.com to find out more.

23

Sorry. This page was left blank on purpose. Our or ig ina l conta ined 22 pages. HOWEVER, due to our stupidness we figured out the pages needed to be a multiple of four.Sorry about that.

Just ignore this page if you can. Or better, just turn the page now.

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What’s next?SPECIAL ‘END OF THE YEAR’ EDITION

_8th Grade Promotion and Dance_Favorite iPhone/iPad App

Read Online!To save paper (and money), our magazine is now online. Click on the link on our school website to continue reading the rest of the magazine at home.Or, just search “4.7 Magazine PMS” in Google.

MAY 2011STAR TESTING WEEK

Math Day at Six Flags

VOTE Send in a top 5 list of your favorite iPhone/iPod apps to the4point7.vote@gmail.com

CMEA Festival at PMS

Memorial Day—No School