Vineland
Middle
February 2015
Vol. 36 No. 7
Crisis Drill
The crisis drill conducted at our school on Wednesday,
January 28th, was a great starting point for our staff in emergency preparedness. There were no students or staff members that were given a yellow (injured) or red (casualty)
cards. There are many reasons why our school did so well
with the drill and a big portion of that was our students behavior.
February 2015
February Important Dates
Important Dates
212–
Valentine’s Day
Dance
2/13
Teacher In-service
2/26
Ellis Island– 8th
Grade Only
The number one comment/compliment that was given
was how respectful our students are and how well they follow directions from teachers! Great job students! The second comment/compliment that other administrators and
sheriff deputies gave was how well our teachers were prepared. It was stated that our staff’s response to the drill was
that the teachers were “superstars” at Vineland Middle.
While hearing all of the positive comments about our
school¹s response, we also understand that we have work to
do that will never end. As educators, it is our responsibility
to keep all students safe from harm’s way. Harm’s way can
come in so many different packages that we are and should
be constantly asking ourselves, “What if?” As we continue
conversation on different scenarios, we will always keep our
students in the forefront of our minds. I am confident that
our teachers are able to make good decisions if and/or
when a crisis were to occur.
Great first drill VMS!
Sandy Gibbs
Principal
Vineland Middle School
February Life Skills
Feb. 2-5
Integrity &
Cooperation
Feb. 9-12
Curiosity &
Responsibility
Feb. 16-19 Resourceful &
Problem Solving
Feb. 23-26 Courage &
Common Sense
Haute Topic
By Joshua Frank
Molten Lava Cakes
Unsweetened baking cocoa
6 oz. semisweet baking chocolate, chopped
1/2 c. plus 2 T. butter
3 whole eggs
3 egg yolks
11/2 c. powdered sugar
1/2 c. all-purpose flour
1 c. raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries
1. Heat oven to 450°F. Grease the bottoms and
sides of 6 ramekin cups with butter and dust
with cocoa powder. In a saucepan, melt semi-sweet chocolate and butter over
low heat, stirring frequently. Cool slightly.
2. In a large bowl, beat whole eggs and egg yolks until well blended. Beat in
11/2 cups powdered sugar. Slowly add in the flour. Divide batter evenly among
the ramekin cups. Place cups om a cookie sheet with sides.
3. Bake 12 to 14 minutes or until sides are set and centers are still soft. The
tops will be puffed up and cracked. Let stand 3 minutes. Run a small knife or
metal spatula around the sides of the cakes to loosen. Immediately place a
heatproof serving plate upside down over each cup. Turn plate and cup back
over. Remove cup. Sprinkle with additional powdered sugar and sweetened berries. Garnish with a mint leaf.
February Student of the Month
Justin Pacheco, a 6th grade student, is Vineland Middle School’s
February Student of the Month. Justin is interested in video games.
He really enjoys the many challenges these games have to offer.
Justin plans on becoming a Forensic Scientist when he is an adult. His
favorite food is a nice freshly baked pizza. The place Justin would
really like to visit is the city of Los Angeles in California. Justin’s favorite teachers at Vineland Middle School are Mr. Ribaudo and Mrs.
Stanley. The classes Justin enjoys most are Physical Education (P.E.)
and Science. Justin was chosen to be Vineland Middle School’s Student of the Month because he demonstrates the life skills of personal
best, friendship, and caring to all at Vineland Middle School.
Library News:
Vineland Middle School Library
Media Center
Ink and Toner Recycle Program
The library is now collecting printer ink
and toner
for our schools recycle program.
Please, if students, parents, and staff members have ink or toner cartridges to dispose
of, remember to bring them to the library to
be recycled!
Love Your Pet Day
By: Jaden Carver
How’s your relationship with your
pet? Well, I hope it’s doing okay because
today you should celebrate! It’s February
20th and today is the day you need to
spend a day with your pet! Today is to
show your animal how you feel about
them. Maybe treats, cuddles, walks, etc.
Just do whatever it is that pleases the both
of you! I know I’m going to spend the
whole day with my dogs. Even if you own
an exotic pet, today is the day you should
remember when you first got him/her and
all the memories you’ve shared with them.
I hope you have fun today!
Who is Miss
Jennifer Davidson?
Welcome to Our School
By Tony Herrera
By Mariah Molina
Miss Jennifer Davis
went to Vineland Middle
School and County High
School. She went to Colorado State University - Pueblo for a degree in mathematics
secondary education. She has only lived in
Pueblo, Colorado. Her hobbies include
dancing and doing crafts. Her favorite type
of food is Italian food. She likes comedy
movies and listens to Country Music.
What she likes most about teaching
are the students and interacting with them
every day. She motivates students to do well
in her classroom by being enthusiastic about
learning and encouraging new creative
ideas. She says the hardest part of teaching
is being organized and having a classroom
system. The easiest part of teaching is wanting to come to work. The most exciting lesson she taught was a relay race for math.
The class is broken into groups, one person
from each group races to find the answer to
a math problem and take it back to their
group.
Her “Achilles heel” is that she is too
easygoing, sometimes. She feels that her
strength is that she is very hardworking and
dedicated to teaching. Her family and
friends would say that she is driven and always stands up for what she believes in.
Welcome back into the Vineland Middle school family, Miss Davis!
We would like to welcome Mr. Ryan to our school. Mr.
Ryan is a new member to our school and we would like
to make him feel welcome. Now why don’t we get to
know a little bit about him? His full name is William
Ryan. He went to middle school at Heaton Middle
School. The high school that he attended was East
High School. He attended college at Colorado State
University in Pueblo and got his degree in exercise
science and health promotions.
Other places Mr. Ryan has lived besides Pueblo are
Lindsborg, Kansas and Las Vegas, Nevada. His
hobbies are playing golf, lifting weights, snowboarding,
going to see movies and concerts.
His favorite thing about teaching is working with the
students and he plans on motivating them by making
learning fun. The hardest part about teaching is staying
organized and doing the grading. The easiest thing
about teaching is actually teaching them the material.
His most exciting lesson was teaching his students
about tornados.
Mr. Ryan’s weaknesses are that he is too easy
going and not strict enough. However, one of his greatest strengths is that he is able to work well with all of his
students. If you ask all of his friends and family, they
would say he is a hard worker, fun, and easy to get
along with.
Welcome to Vineland Middle Mr. Ryan
Random
Kindness
Day
By Colt
Vigil
Who Wants Pie!
By Brieanna King
By Tony Herrera
How much do you like pie? For
all people who like pie or who love pie, there
is a day that is named Cherry Pie Day. This
Do you love doing
good deeds and celebrating
holidays? If the answer is
yes, then you’re going to enjoy and love this holiday
called Random Acts of Kindness Day! It is a feel good
day to where you celebrate
the holiday by just doing any
random good deed or just
being nice to someone.
If you want to do good
deeds and you don’t know
any, here are some examples: you can offer to wash
someone’s car, mow the
lawn for somebody, open the
door for others, help do
chores, and clean your room.
Random Acts of Kindness day begins every year
on the same day, which is
February 17th. This holiday
can be a fun day if you do
plenty of kind things to people and who knows, they
might do good and kind
deeds back to you. And with
the way the world is behaving, random acts of kindness
would certainly be better
news to read than what we
are unfortunately reading
lately. Enjoy the day!
Carnival Day!!!
day is dedicated to relaxing and enjoying
some tasty cherry pie. I, personally, wouldn’t want to miss out on this day. This year,
Cherry Pie Day is on Friday the 20th of
February.
The only thing is that the origin
or creator of the day could not be located.
Even if we are missing some information
about this day, it is still a wonderful time to
go and enjoy some good pie. Cherry pie is
America’s second favorite pie. Apple is still
the number one favorite pie in America.
Other favorite pies include pumpkin, peach,
chocolate cream, strawberry-rhubarb, and
pecan.
Don’t miss out on this day. Village
Inn is a great place to enjoy a slice or the
whole pie. On Wednesdays, they have “Pie
Rush Wednesdays.” Check out our local
location for times and type of free pies
available.. Tell your friends and family or
even someone that you know would love to
help celebrate this yummy day. Just please,
don’t forget to eat pie on this day. It would
be a shame if it were to be missed.
Carnival Day is a fun day to
go out with family or friends
and have a good time eating
junk food and watching lion
and tiger acts, and the motor
cycle acts. You can do this
and more on February 26th.
This is a day where people
spend a lot of money eating
the junk food, and being entertained by death-defying
circus acts, like high-wire
walking and lion taming.
Funny acts include several
clowns trying to get out of a
tiny car. Many carnivals start
with a parade down the main
street with colorful dancers, a
variety of animals, and
clowns. The parade lets everyone know the carnival is in
town.
Don’t think that because it
is a carnival that it is a professional one. There are lots
more carnivals like winter
ones and school ones. You
can also celebrate Carnival
Day by organizing your very
own carnival!! Although the
creator of this day has not
been found yet it is believed
that it couldn’t have been a
carnival-goer, or carnival promoter who got the tradition
started.
The Beatles First Appearance in America
By: Jaden Carver
The Beatles were one of the most famous well-known British bands of the 6’s. I’m pretty sure
most of you know them. Well at least heard of them before. Now when the Beatles; John, Paul, Ringo,
and George first appeared in the U.S was in February 1964. At their first tour, the first single they sang
was “I Want to Hold Your Hand.” This sold over one-and-a-half-million copies just under weeks since its
release. The Beatles visit in America advertised on five million posters around the country, which was the
beginning of the British invasion. So, The Beatles left from their visit in February, but came back in August the same year. And again in August the following year, 1965. But they came once more to America
in 1966. Although their tour was successful, there was a storm of U.S public protect after John Lennon’s
opinion on Christianity. So their tour of 1966 marked the end of their concert days. They even decided to
break up the Fab Four. The last existence of The Beatles was 1969. Still today millions listen to the famous music of The Beatles.
In Loving Memory
John Lennon – October 9, 1940 – December 8 1980
George Harrison – February 25, 1943 – November 29, 2001
Be Humble Day
By Tony Herrera
Are you a person who is really humble? If that is the case, then you will be glad to hear about Be
Humble Day which is on February 22nd. This day is dedicated just to being humble. To be humble means
to show modesty about your importance. Humble people are some of the kindest people that you can
meet. Examples of humble people are The Pope, Mahatma Gandhi, and Mother Teresa. Some ways to tell
if a person is humble are: 1). They are reflective and think about how to help other people 2). Actively find ways to be helpful 3).
They believe it is important to lead a happy life 4). They excel at being a leader 5). They have strong relationships with others. 6).
They are grateful for what they have.
Even though Be Humble Day is on February 22nd, it is quite an important trait to carry with you every single day. Try
helping others without asking for thanks. Give of yourself freely. Try to be an optimist, being happy and content with your life but
striving to make your world a better place to be. Volunteer to help someone– mow an elderly neighbor’s lawn, teach a child to
write their letters or read a book, send a “Thinking of You” card to someone who may be lonely. Be humble every day for a rich,
fulfilling life.
The Top Three Games of the Year Review
By: Jaden Carver
Now most teens these days play a lot of violent games on their consoles. But there
are quite a few games available out there that might be fun to play, or even addictive that
don’t include violent content. Here are the top three most rated video games I recommend
you try out.
Number three on the list is Madden NFL 13. This game will blow your mind with its intense next generation graphics. Madden NFL 13 is the 27th franchise of the entire John Madden Football series. It’s insanely realistic and has nice plays for you to try out.
Next, number two is New Super Mario Bros. 2014 Edition. This game is packed with
new worlds to play. Now, there really isn’t much to say about this game. Almost everyone
knows about Super Mario and how fun the game is.
Last but not least, number one game of the year. Some of you might not be surprised
but this game’s name is Sonic Generations. This platform video game, rated number one,
was published by “Sega” and created by “Sonic Team.” This game was mostly made for the
PS3 and Xbox 360. The game is super fun and full of adventures. Being able to play as Blaze
the Cat, Knuckles, Robot Sonic, and so much more, this game takes you away from everything else and sets you in the world on Sonic.
So maybe you might want to try out these videogames for an amazing experience
with many laughs and enjoyment. And after all, these are the top three, Rated E+ games of
2014.
Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast Day!!!!
By Brienna King
No sausage, no eggs no pancakes! Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast
Day is a day where you can have ice cream for breakfast! You can
top it with all of your favorite cereal, like Fruity Pebbles. Coco Puffs,
or a healthy granola.! And even better, this day has only 3 rules: 1).
Eat ice cream. 2). Do it for breakfast and 3). Do it on the first Saturday of the month.
This day all started in 1960 when a mom wanted her kids to be happy. So she
packed up her car and went to get ice cream and cereal. When she got back home,
she put the ice cream in bowls with the cereal on top and gave it to her kids. Then
they were happy. And that’s how it became a yummy holiday for us to celebrate.
How much do you really love books!!!!!
By Bri King
Do you love books as much as you say you do? Well you don’t know who you
really are until you read the all new Dork Diary’s Tales from a not so happily ever after.
It is the latest and greatest 8th book of the season. It is all about how Nikkei gets the
craziest dream ever. Her dream was that her, her BFFs, Chloe and Zoey, her crush
Brandon, and a mean girl named Mackenzie all end up playing the role of some classic
fairytale characters in this enchanted fairytale island. But this dream doesn’t go as expected because it has its own dork diary’s twist.
Songs of February
Jupiter
Ascending
By: Mariah Molina
If you like to watch movies this
would be a good one to see! A
young woman, Jupiter Jones, is born
on Earth does not know she carries a
genetic legacy that entitles her to
powers beyond her imagination. She
has the ability to reshape the House
of Abrasax. With the help of an exmilitary hunter, who has become her
only ally, the girl will fight other
heirs to rule the dynasty. Will Jupiter
Jones be able to save her planet or
will she die trying?
Mila Kunis plays Jupiter
Jones, Eddie Redmayne plays Balem
Abrasax, and Channing Tatum plays
Caine. You can see this movie on
February 6th 2015.
By Colt V
Have you been itching to get new songs
and can’t find any? If your answer is yes
then you’re going to want to read this article. The top songs of February are:
# 10 “Cheerleader” (Felix Jaehn Remix) by the
artist OMI.
# 9 “Outside” by Calvin Harris Featuring Ellie
Goulding.
#8 “ Sugar” by Maroon 5
#7 “ All About That Bass” by Meghan Trainor
#6 “ Lips Are Movin’” by Meghan Trainor
# 5 “ I’m Not the Only One” by Sam Smith
# 4 “ Blank Space” by Taylor Swift
# 3 “Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeren
# 2 “ Take Me to Church” by Hozier
# 1 “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson featuring
Bruno Mars
This is the top 10 list of this month and I
hope you enjoy these great new songs.
Make a New Friend Day
By Colt Vigil
Are you lonely and have nobody to talk to? If you answered
yes, then your loneliness is going to end now. February 11, 2015 is
your day! This holiday, Make a Friend Day, is a day where you celebrate making
new friends all day. You can also become better friends with the friends you already have. Go around to places, getting to know new people.
If you are having trouble making new friends or meeting new people, here
are some tips to help you bond with new people. I recommend using these tips if
you go to school or a college. First, pick the person you want to become friends
with. Next, give them a smile and greet them. Then, ask them if they need help with
their homework or assistance with a subject. Then, be kind to them and do good
deeds. Last, start conversations with them, like asking how their day was or inviting
them over to an event such as going to a movie, seeing a school game or play, or
just hanging out playing video games and listening to music.
As you can see, Make a Friend Day is pretty simple. It’s a
holiday where you celebrate friendship. Friendship is one of
the best prizes you can get. Don’t forget to celebrate this important and fun day!
Do You Love To Walk Your Pets?
By: Mariah Molina
This day always lands on February 22. Today is a special day for your
dog. However, they look forward to it every day, all year long. Do you
walk your dog every day? Walking your dog is a MUST! Dogs, that stay
inside or are chained up outside, need to get some exercise. Weather permitting, you can take your dog for a long walk. But, if it is extremely cold, raining, or snowing, a short,
quick walk helps. Pets that do not get enough exercise tend to get themselves into trouble- chewing up the
furniture, your favorite shoes, or maybe even the rug. Also, dogs need to get outside to “do their business”.
Walking your dog is also good for you. When we take a walk after a hectic day, it relieves stress and
makes us feel better and could provide up to 150 minutes of exercise a week. Walking our dogs creates a
companionship that bonds owner and dog. It is important to walk our dogs on leashes with either a collar or
harness. This provides safety for both walker and the dog. That way, the dog doesn’t run out into the street
and get hurt, or get into trouble in a neighbor’s yard. Commonly, the dog is walked by owner or owner’s
family member but there are professional dog walkers to help those who need it. A study made by the
Michigan State University showed that 34% of people walk their dogs. Let’s up that percentage by walking
our dogs on February 22nd!
Sixth and Seventh Graders Dominate
The annual school Spelling Bee was held on January 20, 2015. Seventeen contestants vied for four coveted positions. It took several rounds before the four
placeholders emerged but victorious they were!
First place
Second place
Sadie
Kovtynovich
Sam Reap
Third Place
Bailey
Corsentino
Alternate
Deja Balkey
Competition Successful!
Mr. Mandarich
On Friday, January 30, 2015, TSA students competed in several challenges
at Pueblo County High School. TSA participated in the following events:
CO2 Car: Students designed their cars on our 3D design software, inventor
and cut them out on our CNC machine. This assured that the cars were symmetric and exact. The most difficult part of this was that the students needed to
make sure their cars were at a certain mass range.
T-Shirt Design: Students designed our current TSA shirt here at VMS as well as a state of Colorado design.
Creativity Challenge: Students had to construct a roller coaster made out of newspaper that would hold a marble as
the car.
Video Game Design: Students designed a video game for judging. They also had to design a video game on site.
Solar Car: Students had to make a solar car that would have the fastest time. Students competed in a bracket.
Crash Test: Students designed a vehicle that would safely crash an egg down a ramp. The egg is like a crash test
dummy.
All projects required an interview and portfolio which applied elements of the design process. Students created
scale, technical drawings of their projects. Results of the competition are:
Dylan Smart– 1st Place in Creative Challenge/ 1st Place in Crash Test
Dixie Stewart– 1st Place in T-Shirt design/ 4th Place in CO2 Cars
Sam Reap– 1st Place in Creative Challenge/ 1st Place in Crash Test
James Marriott and Yeribel Lozoya– 2nd Place in Underwater ROV
Ricky Adama and Trey Border– 3rd Place in Underwater ROV