December 13, 2010
The Holidays are Here!
Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa are celebrated in December
JUPITER IMAGES/AP
A boy plays the dreidel game, a Hanukkah tradition.
Each December, many people around the world celebrate holidays and traditions that are special to their culture and religion. Christmas is celebrated on December 25. This year, the first night of Hanukkah is on December 1. Kwanzaa begins on December 26.
Celebrating Christmas
On Christmas, Christians honor the birth of Jesus Christ. They celebrate the day with prayers, gifts and stories. In one Christmas tradition, a jolly, bearded man named Santa Claus brings gifts to good children on Christmas Eve. Each country has its own traditions for Christmas celebrations. In the sixteenth century, Germans started the Christmas-tree tradition as we now know it. They brought trees into their homes and decorated them with fruits, nuts, lighted candles and paper roses.
The Story of Hanukkah
This year, Jews began celebrating Hanukkah at sunset on December 11. The holiday lasts eight days and nights. In Hebrew, the word "Hanukkah" means "dedication." Hanukkah honors a struggle that dates back to 165 B.C., when Jews defeated an invading army and regained the Temple at Jerusalem. According to legend, Jews found a lamp inside the temple with just enough oil to light their holy lamps for one night. By some miracle, the legend goes, it burned for eight nights. Today, Jews celebrate Hanukkah by lighting a candle in a menorah for each of the eight nights.
YELLOW DOG PRODUCTIONS/GETTY IMAGES
Families celebrate the principles of African-American culture during Kwanzaa.
Kwanzaa Traditions
Many African Americans celebrate Kwanzaa to honor their cultural roots in Africa. Kwanzaa is modeled after a series of cultural principles called Kawaida. According to Kawaida, African Americans can improve their lives by getting back in touch with their cultural roots. The holiday lasts seven days and nights, each marked by the lighting of a candle that represents a principle of family and community.
Peace on Earth
People of many backgrounds and belief systems spend time in December reflecting on the year that is coming to an end, then setting goals and making plans for the new year to come. The beginning of the dark, chilly winter seems a good time to gather loved ones around a fire or a candlelit table and celebrate the new beginning that we all share at the end of every December.
http://www.timeforkids.com/TFK/kids/news/story/0,28277,1691266,00.html
991231 The Holidays are Here!-Michael
Each December, many people around the world celebrate Christmas. Christmas is celebrated on December 25th. Christmas is a traditional day for the Christians because Jesus Christ born on that day. In Christmas, children celebrate the holiday with prayers, gifts and stories. An old man with a white beard called “Santa Claus” will come out this day with his reindeers. Santa Claus will give Christmas presents to all the children. People will also decorate their house with Christmas tree, stockings and Christmas lights. Families will also have a Christmas feast together. It is a great day for children because they can have a lot of presents and happiness. We also can have a snow ball fight during the Christmas. People will also sing Christmas songs such as “Santa Claus is coming to town” and “We wish you a Merry Christmas”
2010年12月31日 星期五
2010年12月17日 星期五
991217 A Winter Storm in Autumn-Michael
December 13, 2010
A Winter Storm in Autumn
A powerful snowstorm swept through the Midwest over the weekend
BY KELLI PLASKET
Winter came early this weekend for Americans in the upper Midwest who were hit with a powerful mix of snow and high winds. The storm has so far caused at least 11 weather-related deaths and canceled more than 1,600 flights in Chicago, Illinois. Parts of Minnesota and Wisconsin were buried under nearly two feet of snow, and the roof of the Metrodome, the Minnesota Vikings' stadium, collapsed from the snow's weight.
The weather is what the region would normally experience in January, not December, according to Jim Taggard, a meteorologist for the National Weather Service. In Minnesota on Saturday, the Twin Cities had their snowiest December day on record.
Under Pressure
As the storm made its way through eight states over the weekend, several major highways closed due to accidents and road conditions. The weather forced the cancelation of at least 1,375 weekend flights at Chicago-O'Hare International Airport and more than 300 at Chicago's Midway International Airport.
The inflatable Metrodome roof collapsed Sunday after the storm dumped 17 inches of snow on Minneapolis. This caused a major rip, dumping mounds of snow onto the field. A Vikings' football game scheduled for Sunday at the Metrodome had already been pushed to Monday when the visiting team, the New York Giants, were stranded in Kansas City, Missouri, on Saturday night due to canceled flights. Monday's game has been moved to Ford Field in Detroit, Michigan. Officials aren't sure when the Metrodome will reopen.
Cold Continues
The storm continues northeast on Monday toward Canada. Michigan and northern Indiana through parts of Pennsylvania and New York may experience some snow. A jet stream following the storm is expected to stretch as low as Florida, blanketing the East with cold temperatures and potentially bringing record colds Monday night to parts of the Sunshine State.
Meanwhile, the storm left behind dangerously cold temperatures in the Midwest, with wind chills well below zero. These conditions could slow down snow-clearing efforts on the roads. More flight delays and cancellations are also expected Monday at major airports in the East.
http://www.timeforkids.com/TFK/kids/news/story/0,28277,2036747,00.html
991217 A Winter Storm in Autumn-Michael
It is getting colder and colder these days because winter is coming. We need to wear more clothes to keep warm or we will get sick. There is a big winter storm which has attacked America is very strong. The snowstorm has caused the Midwest snowing and the temperature is still getting lower. The bad weather forced 1,375 weekend flights at Chicago-O'Hare International Airport canceled. The snowstorm affected all America it brought cold temperatures and chill winds that made some cities had a temperature below zero. There was also cold current that struck Taiwan it made the temperature decreased a lot. Kaohsiung had a temperature like 15 degrees. So, we had to wear a lot of clothes to keep us warm. I expect the temperature will rise tomorrow or the day after tomorrow because I don’t really like cold weathers.
A Winter Storm in Autumn
A powerful snowstorm swept through the Midwest over the weekend
BY KELLI PLASKET
Winter came early this weekend for Americans in the upper Midwest who were hit with a powerful mix of snow and high winds. The storm has so far caused at least 11 weather-related deaths and canceled more than 1,600 flights in Chicago, Illinois. Parts of Minnesota and Wisconsin were buried under nearly two feet of snow, and the roof of the Metrodome, the Minnesota Vikings' stadium, collapsed from the snow's weight.
The weather is what the region would normally experience in January, not December, according to Jim Taggard, a meteorologist for the National Weather Service. In Minnesota on Saturday, the Twin Cities had their snowiest December day on record.
Under Pressure
As the storm made its way through eight states over the weekend, several major highways closed due to accidents and road conditions. The weather forced the cancelation of at least 1,375 weekend flights at Chicago-O'Hare International Airport and more than 300 at Chicago's Midway International Airport.
The inflatable Metrodome roof collapsed Sunday after the storm dumped 17 inches of snow on Minneapolis. This caused a major rip, dumping mounds of snow onto the field. A Vikings' football game scheduled for Sunday at the Metrodome had already been pushed to Monday when the visiting team, the New York Giants, were stranded in Kansas City, Missouri, on Saturday night due to canceled flights. Monday's game has been moved to Ford Field in Detroit, Michigan. Officials aren't sure when the Metrodome will reopen.
Cold Continues
The storm continues northeast on Monday toward Canada. Michigan and northern Indiana through parts of Pennsylvania and New York may experience some snow. A jet stream following the storm is expected to stretch as low as Florida, blanketing the East with cold temperatures and potentially bringing record colds Monday night to parts of the Sunshine State.
Meanwhile, the storm left behind dangerously cold temperatures in the Midwest, with wind chills well below zero. These conditions could slow down snow-clearing efforts on the roads. More flight delays and cancellations are also expected Monday at major airports in the East.
http://www.timeforkids.com/TFK/kids/news/story/0,28277,2036747,00.html
991217 A Winter Storm in Autumn-Michael
It is getting colder and colder these days because winter is coming. We need to wear more clothes to keep warm or we will get sick. There is a big winter storm which has attacked America is very strong. The snowstorm has caused the Midwest snowing and the temperature is still getting lower. The bad weather forced 1,375 weekend flights at Chicago-O'Hare International Airport canceled. The snowstorm affected all America it brought cold temperatures and chill winds that made some cities had a temperature below zero. There was also cold current that struck Taiwan it made the temperature decreased a lot. Kaohsiung had a temperature like 15 degrees. So, we had to wear a lot of clothes to keep us warm. I expect the temperature will rise tomorrow or the day after tomorrow because I don’t really like cold weathers.
2010年12月10日 星期五
991210 Turn Down the Volume!-Michael
December 6, 2010
Turn Down the Volume!
Congress passes a bill that quiets commercials
BY KELLI PLASKET
Commercials are too loud! It's one of Americans' top complaints when watching television. Now, the government is turning down the volume. On Thursday, Congress passed the CALM Act, which calls for regulations that will lower the volume on television commercials that sound louder than the shows they interrupt.
GETTY IMAGES
The CALM Act will lower the volume on loud commercials.
The CALM Act is short for the Commercial Advertisement Loudness Mitigation Act. Representative Anna G. Eshoo from California sponsored the bill. "Consumers have been asking for a solution to this problem for decades, and today they finally have it," Representative Eshoo said.
Viewers Complain
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC), an independent government agency that regulates radio and television broadcasting, has received complaints from viewers about commercial volume since the 1960s. In 21 of the FCC's last 25 quarterly reports, loud commercials were listed as a top consumer complaint.
Advertisers raise the volume on commercials to try to grab consumer attention. Instead, viewers reach for the mute button.
The act calls for the FCC to come up with regulations for commercials so that they cannot be louder than the average sound level of the accompanying television shows. Advertisers will have one year to meet the new regulations.
The Senate passed the CALM Act on September 29, 2010. On Thursday, the House gave final approval to the bill. After a bill passes through Congress, the President must sign the bill to make it a law. President Obama is expected to sign the CALM Act
http://www.timeforkids.com/TFK/kids/news/story/0,28277,2035492,00.html
991210 Turn Down the Volume!-Michael
TV commercials are usually very loud. In America people don’t like the commercials and the loud sounds while they are watching the TV. They complain about the loud sounds of the TV commercials. So, the Congress is going to make a law for the “loud” TV commercials which is called the CALM Act (Commercial Advertisement Loudness Mitigation Act). The CALM Act will lower the volume on television commercials that sound louder than the shows they interrupt it will make the people who watches the TV feel better and comfortable. Sometimes, loud sounds will make our moods get worse so it is really important of the sounds of the TV. The new law that Congress made will make the advertisers follow the law. Commercials can’t be louder than the average sound level of the other TV programs or the government will give you a fine for breaking the law.
Turn Down the Volume!
Congress passes a bill that quiets commercials
BY KELLI PLASKET
Commercials are too loud! It's one of Americans' top complaints when watching television. Now, the government is turning down the volume. On Thursday, Congress passed the CALM Act, which calls for regulations that will lower the volume on television commercials that sound louder than the shows they interrupt.
GETTY IMAGES
The CALM Act will lower the volume on loud commercials.
The CALM Act is short for the Commercial Advertisement Loudness Mitigation Act. Representative Anna G. Eshoo from California sponsored the bill. "Consumers have been asking for a solution to this problem for decades, and today they finally have it," Representative Eshoo said.
Viewers Complain
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC), an independent government agency that regulates radio and television broadcasting, has received complaints from viewers about commercial volume since the 1960s. In 21 of the FCC's last 25 quarterly reports, loud commercials were listed as a top consumer complaint.
Advertisers raise the volume on commercials to try to grab consumer attention. Instead, viewers reach for the mute button.
The act calls for the FCC to come up with regulations for commercials so that they cannot be louder than the average sound level of the accompanying television shows. Advertisers will have one year to meet the new regulations.
The Senate passed the CALM Act on September 29, 2010. On Thursday, the House gave final approval to the bill. After a bill passes through Congress, the President must sign the bill to make it a law. President Obama is expected to sign the CALM Act
http://www.timeforkids.com/TFK/kids/news/story/0,28277,2035492,00.html
991210 Turn Down the Volume!-Michael
TV commercials are usually very loud. In America people don’t like the commercials and the loud sounds while they are watching the TV. They complain about the loud sounds of the TV commercials. So, the Congress is going to make a law for the “loud” TV commercials which is called the CALM Act (Commercial Advertisement Loudness Mitigation Act). The CALM Act will lower the volume on television commercials that sound louder than the shows they interrupt it will make the people who watches the TV feel better and comfortable. Sometimes, loud sounds will make our moods get worse so it is really important of the sounds of the TV. The new law that Congress made will make the advertisers follow the law. Commercials can’t be louder than the average sound level of the other TV programs or the government will give you a fine for breaking the law.
2010年11月19日 星期五
991119 Are Reusable Bags Dangerous? – Michael
November 15, 2010
Are Reusable Bags Dangerous?
After a report finds high levels of lead in reusable grocery bags, a U.S. senator calls for the government to investigate
BY JAIME JOYCE
To help the environment, many Americans have made the switch from paper and plastic bags to reusable grocery bags. But a report by a Florida newspaper says that reusable grocery bags sold by some supermarkets contain high levels of lead. Lead is a metal that can be harmful to humans, especially young children. Now, Senator Charles Schumer, of New York, is asking the U.S. government to investigate the use of lead in reusable shopping bags.
"When our families go to the grocery store looking for safe and healthy foods to feed their kids, the last thing they should have to worry about are toxic bags, "Schumer said in a statement. "A quick and thorough investigation will allow everyone to make informed, timely decisions," Schumer added.
Shoppers, Beware
A store clerk in Connecticut packs groceries in a reusable shopping bag. This bag was not tested in the Florida study.
The Tampa Tribune newspaper, in Tampa, Florida, bought more than a dozen bags from Florida supermarkets. They paid a lab to test the bags for lead. The results showed that certain bags sold at Publix and Winn-Dixie supermarkets had lead levels that were a concern to health officials. Some bags had enough lead that they could be considered hazardous waste if people were to throw the bags out with their household trash.
Lead in the bags is not likely to rub off on food. But over time, paint on the bags can chip and the bags can wear out. When this happens, lead can be released.
What Consumers Can Do
The affected bags were found in Florida. But Publix has more than 1,000 stores in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina and Tennessee. Publix says that all of its bags comply with current federal laws regarding lead content, but that they have asked the makers of the bags to reduce the lead levels in the product.
Winn-Dixie has hundreds of stores in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana and Mississippi. Officials at Winn-Dixie say refunds will be given to customers who return the bags.
The bags with the highest levels of lead had fancy designs and many pictures. Plain reusable bags without decoration were found to contain little lead. Consumers worried about lead levels in reusable bags can switch to cloth or string bags. Paper bags are also a good choice, since paper can be recycled.
Since 2007, Publix supermarkets have sold more than 13 million reusable bags. The store says because shoppers have made the switch to reusable bags, it has saved more than 1 billion paper and plastic bags.
http://www.timeforkids.com/TFK/kids/news/story/0,28277,2031453,00.html
991119 Are Reusable Bags Dangerous? – Michael
Reusable bags are good for the environment but if the reusable bags are not good for the environment then people will not use it. There is a report wrote by a Florida newspaper said that the reusable grocery bags were sold by some supermarkets and the reusable grocery bags contain high levels of lead. That is very bad to human because lead we harm our body especially to children and babies. Lead will cause potentially permanent learning and behavior disorders to children. So, Senator Charles Schumer, of New York, is asking the U.S. government to investigate the use of lead in reusable shopping bags. If there are a lot of leads in the bag then the US government might tell the company that produces the bags to stop producing it. I think using paper bag is another good way to help the environment because paper bag can be recycled. When you use the lead bag for a long time the paint on it will chip off the bag easily and then the lead will be release and then children or adults that are not careful might eat the lead. Our body will think that the lead is a different kind of metal and start using it instead of using the original metal and that is how you let your body start to get worse.
Are Reusable Bags Dangerous?
After a report finds high levels of lead in reusable grocery bags, a U.S. senator calls for the government to investigate
BY JAIME JOYCE
To help the environment, many Americans have made the switch from paper and plastic bags to reusable grocery bags. But a report by a Florida newspaper says that reusable grocery bags sold by some supermarkets contain high levels of lead. Lead is a metal that can be harmful to humans, especially young children. Now, Senator Charles Schumer, of New York, is asking the U.S. government to investigate the use of lead in reusable shopping bags.
"When our families go to the grocery store looking for safe and healthy foods to feed their kids, the last thing they should have to worry about are toxic bags, "Schumer said in a statement. "A quick and thorough investigation will allow everyone to make informed, timely decisions," Schumer added.
Shoppers, Beware
A store clerk in Connecticut packs groceries in a reusable shopping bag. This bag was not tested in the Florida study.
The Tampa Tribune newspaper, in Tampa, Florida, bought more than a dozen bags from Florida supermarkets. They paid a lab to test the bags for lead. The results showed that certain bags sold at Publix and Winn-Dixie supermarkets had lead levels that were a concern to health officials. Some bags had enough lead that they could be considered hazardous waste if people were to throw the bags out with their household trash.
Lead in the bags is not likely to rub off on food. But over time, paint on the bags can chip and the bags can wear out. When this happens, lead can be released.
What Consumers Can Do
The affected bags were found in Florida. But Publix has more than 1,000 stores in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina and Tennessee. Publix says that all of its bags comply with current federal laws regarding lead content, but that they have asked the makers of the bags to reduce the lead levels in the product.
Winn-Dixie has hundreds of stores in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana and Mississippi. Officials at Winn-Dixie say refunds will be given to customers who return the bags.
The bags with the highest levels of lead had fancy designs and many pictures. Plain reusable bags without decoration were found to contain little lead. Consumers worried about lead levels in reusable bags can switch to cloth or string bags. Paper bags are also a good choice, since paper can be recycled.
Since 2007, Publix supermarkets have sold more than 13 million reusable bags. The store says because shoppers have made the switch to reusable bags, it has saved more than 1 billion paper and plastic bags.
http://www.timeforkids.com/TFK/kids/news/story/0,28277,2031453,00.html
991119 Are Reusable Bags Dangerous? – Michael
Reusable bags are good for the environment but if the reusable bags are not good for the environment then people will not use it. There is a report wrote by a Florida newspaper said that the reusable grocery bags were sold by some supermarkets and the reusable grocery bags contain high levels of lead. That is very bad to human because lead we harm our body especially to children and babies. Lead will cause potentially permanent learning and behavior disorders to children. So, Senator Charles Schumer, of New York, is asking the U.S. government to investigate the use of lead in reusable shopping bags. If there are a lot of leads in the bag then the US government might tell the company that produces the bags to stop producing it. I think using paper bag is another good way to help the environment because paper bag can be recycled. When you use the lead bag for a long time the paint on it will chip off the bag easily and then the lead will be release and then children or adults that are not careful might eat the lead. Our body will think that the lead is a different kind of metal and start using it instead of using the original metal and that is how you let your body start to get worse.
2010年11月12日 星期五
991112 Justin Bieber Tells All-Michael
November 10, 2010
Justin Bieber Tells All
The pop star talks to TFK about his new autobiography, First Step 2 Forever: My Story
BY TFK KID REPORTER TAYLOR PANNELL
Justin Bieber is giving fans a sneak peek into his world with his new autobiography, First Step 2 Forever: My Story, on sale now. In the book, the singer describes his road to fame, from his first video on YouTube to his superstar status today. Readers are also treated to never-before-seen photos of Justin onstage and off.
COURTESY HARPER COLLINS
TFK Kid Reporter Taylor Pannell with Justin Bieber.
The 16-year-old pop sensation spoke to TFK about his decision to tell his story. Read on to see what Justin said about who he looks up to, how he deals with being in the spotlight, and more.
TFK:
Why did you want to write a book about your life?
JUSTIN BIEBER:
Well, number 1, you are probably wondering why I am wearing glasses. That's because I'm [in a British accent] "an authah." Second, you're probably wondering why I'm talking with a British accent. Well, most authors have British accents, so it's just another trademark . Just kidding! No, seriously. I decided to write a book because my fans needed to hear something from my perspective.
TFK:
What is the best part of writing a book?
JUSTIN:
Being able to put everything in my own words and being able to tell everyone how I'm feeling.
TFK:
What do you want people to learn about you?
JUSTIN:
I want people to learn that you can do anything. Just set your mind to it and be motivated to work hard, and anything is possible.
TFK:
Who do you look up to?
JUSTIN:
I look up to Shaquille O'Neal because he's tall, so I always look up to him. I can't look down on him. No, just kidding. I look up to [musicians like] Michael Jackson, Boys II Men and Stevie Wonder.
TFK:
What is most challenging about being a star?
JUSTIN:
I don't consider myself a star. I just consider myself a regular kid. I like to hang out with my friends and stuff. It's hard to be away from your friends all the time.
TFK:
How do you stay grounded?
JUSTIN:
I have great family [members] and friends who are always on my back. You know, I don't have people who always say yes to me. If I want something and it's unreasonable, then they'll say no. That really keeps me grounded. Reading the Bible keeps me grounded, too.
TFK:
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
JUSTIN:
I like to hang out with my friends, play basketball and play Xbox.
TFK:
Where do you get ideas for songs?
JUSTIN:
Some of them are just ideas in my head that I just think of and some of them are actual stories.
TFK:
Which of your songs is your favorite?
JUSTIN:
My favorite song is "Down to Earth."
TFK:
People are always talking about you. Some of the comments are positive. Some are negative. How do you deal with all of that?
JUSTIN:
I just live my life, and I don't really pay attention to it.
TFK:
You've worked with some incredible people. Do you ever feel nervous or intimidated?
JUSTIN:
Not really. They're just regular people, so I don't really feel nervous.
TFK:
What do you think you'll be doing 10 years from now?
JUSTIN:
Ten years from now, like, exactly this time of day? Ten years from now, I'll probably be celebrating the 10th year anniversary of you asking me this question. [Laughs] Just kidding. Ten years from now I'll probably be making music—good music.
http://www.timeforkids.com/TFK/kids/news/story/0,28277,2030729,00.html
991112 Justin Bieber Tells All-Michael
Justin Bieber is a new star. He is famous all over the world. I like him a lot too because his songs are all great! He wrote a new autobiography called First Step 2 Forever: My Story. This book talks about how he succeeds. From his first video on YouTube to a big global superstar that is famous all over the world. In First Step 2 Forever, Justin Bieber tells the story of his amazing journey from small-town schoolboy to global superstar. He designed a jam-packed full of exclusive photos and other things else! Although, he has been a global superstar he is still a sixteen years old teenager he still needs his own life. When he isn’t singing he is just a normal teenager and likes to hang out with friends. They go to play together just like the others. His songs are also very popular such as “Baby” this song has received over three hundred and fifty millions hits on YouTube. This is very cool because it has the most hits on YouTube! And all his songs have received over one billion hits! That is incredible! So, I think Justin Bieber is a successful superstar!
Justin Bieber Tells All
The pop star talks to TFK about his new autobiography, First Step 2 Forever: My Story
BY TFK KID REPORTER TAYLOR PANNELL
Justin Bieber is giving fans a sneak peek into his world with his new autobiography, First Step 2 Forever: My Story, on sale now. In the book, the singer describes his road to fame, from his first video on YouTube to his superstar status today. Readers are also treated to never-before-seen photos of Justin onstage and off.
COURTESY HARPER COLLINS
TFK Kid Reporter Taylor Pannell with Justin Bieber.
The 16-year-old pop sensation spoke to TFK about his decision to tell his story. Read on to see what Justin said about who he looks up to, how he deals with being in the spotlight, and more.
TFK:
Why did you want to write a book about your life?
JUSTIN BIEBER:
Well, number 1, you are probably wondering why I am wearing glasses. That's because I'm [in a British accent] "an authah." Second, you're probably wondering why I'm talking with a British accent. Well, most authors have British accents, so it's just another trademark . Just kidding! No, seriously. I decided to write a book because my fans needed to hear something from my perspective.
TFK:
What is the best part of writing a book?
JUSTIN:
Being able to put everything in my own words and being able to tell everyone how I'm feeling.
TFK:
What do you want people to learn about you?
JUSTIN:
I want people to learn that you can do anything. Just set your mind to it and be motivated to work hard, and anything is possible.
TFK:
Who do you look up to?
JUSTIN:
I look up to Shaquille O'Neal because he's tall, so I always look up to him. I can't look down on him. No, just kidding. I look up to [musicians like] Michael Jackson, Boys II Men and Stevie Wonder.
TFK:
What is most challenging about being a star?
JUSTIN:
I don't consider myself a star. I just consider myself a regular kid. I like to hang out with my friends and stuff. It's hard to be away from your friends all the time.
TFK:
How do you stay grounded?
JUSTIN:
I have great family [members] and friends who are always on my back. You know, I don't have people who always say yes to me. If I want something and it's unreasonable, then they'll say no. That really keeps me grounded. Reading the Bible keeps me grounded, too.
TFK:
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
JUSTIN:
I like to hang out with my friends, play basketball and play Xbox.
TFK:
Where do you get ideas for songs?
JUSTIN:
Some of them are just ideas in my head that I just think of and some of them are actual stories.
TFK:
Which of your songs is your favorite?
JUSTIN:
My favorite song is "Down to Earth."
TFK:
People are always talking about you. Some of the comments are positive. Some are negative. How do you deal with all of that?
JUSTIN:
I just live my life, and I don't really pay attention to it.
TFK:
You've worked with some incredible people. Do you ever feel nervous or intimidated?
JUSTIN:
Not really. They're just regular people, so I don't really feel nervous.
TFK:
What do you think you'll be doing 10 years from now?
JUSTIN:
Ten years from now, like, exactly this time of day? Ten years from now, I'll probably be celebrating the 10th year anniversary of you asking me this question. [Laughs] Just kidding. Ten years from now I'll probably be making music—good music.
http://www.timeforkids.com/TFK/kids/news/story/0,28277,2030729,00.html
991112 Justin Bieber Tells All-Michael
Justin Bieber is a new star. He is famous all over the world. I like him a lot too because his songs are all great! He wrote a new autobiography called First Step 2 Forever: My Story. This book talks about how he succeeds. From his first video on YouTube to a big global superstar that is famous all over the world. In First Step 2 Forever, Justin Bieber tells the story of his amazing journey from small-town schoolboy to global superstar. He designed a jam-packed full of exclusive photos and other things else! Although, he has been a global superstar he is still a sixteen years old teenager he still needs his own life. When he isn’t singing he is just a normal teenager and likes to hang out with friends. They go to play together just like the others. His songs are also very popular such as “Baby” this song has received over three hundred and fifty millions hits on YouTube. This is very cool because it has the most hits on YouTube! And all his songs have received over one billion hits! That is incredible! So, I think Justin Bieber is a successful superstar!
2010年11月5日 星期五
991105 Making Halloween Count-Michael
October 29, 2010
Making Halloween Count
Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF celebrates its 60th anniversary on Sunday
BY VICKIE AN
Kids nationwide will be doing more than collecting sweet treats this Halloween. They'll be helping needy children around the world too. You'll recognize these Halloween helpers by the bright orange donation boxes they'll be carrying. The easy-to-spot box is a signature item of the annual Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF campaign.
Disney star Selena Gomez is the national spokesperson for Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF.
UNICEF, or the United Nations Children's Fund, was founded in 1946. It was originally created to help children who were struggling from the devastating effects of World War II. Today, the humanitarian organization provides millions of kids all over the globe with clean water, improved nutrition, health care, access to education and emergency assistance.
More than two million children nationwide are expected to take part in Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF on Sunday. The Halloween campaign turns 60 this year.
No Tricks, Just Treats
Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF got its start with a family in Pennsylvania, in 1950. The year before, shortly after Halloween, Mary Emma Allison and her three children were shopping in downtown Philadelphia when they stumbled upon a UNICEF parade. The colorful march featured kids dressed in costumes representing countries across the globe. A banner caught Allison's eye. It read: "One cent will buy 20 glasses of milk."
The chance encounter gave Allison an idea. Instead of just collecting candy on Halloween, why not do something good and collect money for UNICEF, too? The following Halloween, the Allison family, their neighbors and their church friends went door-to-door with decorated milk cartons, collecting spare change to send to UNICEF. Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF was born.
Kids Helping Kids
Today, the annual Halloween drive has raised over $160 million for UNICEF programs in more than 150 countries and territories. Through the years, the program has received support from U.S. Presidents, TV shows, celebrities and more.
One celebrity who is passionate about UNICEF's mission is Wizards of Waverly Place actress Selena Gomez. This Halloween marks Selena's third year as the Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF national spokesperson. At 18, the Disney Channel star is UNICEF's youngest ambassador. She hopes to use her role to inspire other young people to take action.
"Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF is the original kids-helping-kids campaign," says Selena. "Participating in Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF, or any of UNICEF's campaigns, allows me to use my voice and mobilize my peers to be active members of our global community."
Singing for a Cause
On October 26, Selena used her voice in another way by putting on a charity concert for fans in Hollywood, California. She and her band, The Scene, performed acoustic versions of songs from their two albums, A Year Without Rain and Kiss & Tell. Proceeds from the concert will go to supporting UNICEF programs. Selena urged everyone in the audience to carry UNICEF's signature orange collection box when they go trick-or-treating on Sunday.
"With UNICEF, a little bit goes a long way," Selena told TFK. "Every little bit helps ensure that UNICEF can continue its lifesaving work." To learn more, go to trickortreatforunicef.org.
http://www.timeforkids.com/TFK/kids/news/story/0,28277,2028268,00.html
991105 Making Halloween Count-Michael
Halloween is a special holiday in the western countries. They celebrate Halloween on October thirty first. On that day, children will wear scary costumes such as ghost, vampire, and wizards. But the UNICEF or the United Nations Children's Fund had started raising money for children it let the traditional Halloween became very different! Instead of collecting candy the Allison family started to collect money and sent the money to the UNICEF for children. Today the annual Halloween has raised over one hundred and sixty million for UNICEF. This year, the UNICEF marks Selena Gomez as the spokesman for raising money. I think that it will be a lot of fun this Halloween.
Making Halloween Count
Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF celebrates its 60th anniversary on Sunday
BY VICKIE AN
Kids nationwide will be doing more than collecting sweet treats this Halloween. They'll be helping needy children around the world too. You'll recognize these Halloween helpers by the bright orange donation boxes they'll be carrying. The easy-to-spot box is a signature item of the annual Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF campaign.
Disney star Selena Gomez is the national spokesperson for Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF.
UNICEF, or the United Nations Children's Fund, was founded in 1946. It was originally created to help children who were struggling from the devastating effects of World War II. Today, the humanitarian organization provides millions of kids all over the globe with clean water, improved nutrition, health care, access to education and emergency assistance.
More than two million children nationwide are expected to take part in Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF on Sunday. The Halloween campaign turns 60 this year.
No Tricks, Just Treats
Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF got its start with a family in Pennsylvania, in 1950. The year before, shortly after Halloween, Mary Emma Allison and her three children were shopping in downtown Philadelphia when they stumbled upon a UNICEF parade. The colorful march featured kids dressed in costumes representing countries across the globe. A banner caught Allison's eye. It read: "One cent will buy 20 glasses of milk."
The chance encounter gave Allison an idea. Instead of just collecting candy on Halloween, why not do something good and collect money for UNICEF, too? The following Halloween, the Allison family, their neighbors and their church friends went door-to-door with decorated milk cartons, collecting spare change to send to UNICEF. Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF was born.
Kids Helping Kids
Today, the annual Halloween drive has raised over $160 million for UNICEF programs in more than 150 countries and territories. Through the years, the program has received support from U.S. Presidents, TV shows, celebrities and more.
One celebrity who is passionate about UNICEF's mission is Wizards of Waverly Place actress Selena Gomez. This Halloween marks Selena's third year as the Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF national spokesperson. At 18, the Disney Channel star is UNICEF's youngest ambassador. She hopes to use her role to inspire other young people to take action.
"Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF is the original kids-helping-kids campaign," says Selena. "Participating in Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF, or any of UNICEF's campaigns, allows me to use my voice and mobilize my peers to be active members of our global community."
Singing for a Cause
On October 26, Selena used her voice in another way by putting on a charity concert for fans in Hollywood, California. She and her band, The Scene, performed acoustic versions of songs from their two albums, A Year Without Rain and Kiss & Tell. Proceeds from the concert will go to supporting UNICEF programs. Selena urged everyone in the audience to carry UNICEF's signature orange collection box when they go trick-or-treating on Sunday.
"With UNICEF, a little bit goes a long way," Selena told TFK. "Every little bit helps ensure that UNICEF can continue its lifesaving work." To learn more, go to trickortreatforunicef.org.
http://www.timeforkids.com/TFK/kids/news/story/0,28277,2028268,00.html
991105 Making Halloween Count-Michael
Halloween is a special holiday in the western countries. They celebrate Halloween on October thirty first. On that day, children will wear scary costumes such as ghost, vampire, and wizards. But the UNICEF or the United Nations Children's Fund had started raising money for children it let the traditional Halloween became very different! Instead of collecting candy the Allison family started to collect money and sent the money to the UNICEF for children. Today the annual Halloween has raised over one hundred and sixty million for UNICEF. This year, the UNICEF marks Selena Gomez as the spokesman for raising money. I think that it will be a lot of fun this Halloween.
2010年10月29日 星期五
991029 A Race to Help Haiti-Michael
October 25, 2010
A Race to Help Haiti
Officials are working around the clock to stop the spread of a deadly disease
BY SUZANNE ZIMBLER
Nine months after a devastating earthquake struck Haiti, more than a million people are still living in temporary camps in the capital city of Port-au-Prince. With so many people living in close quarters, officials have long feared a major outbreak of disease. Now, they are fighting to prevent a deadly disease from spreading to the camps.
A medical worker helps a mother and child at a hospital in Haiti.
Last week, in an area about 60 miles northwest of the capital, more than 3,000 people became sick with cholera (kol-er-uh). The disease can spread quickly when there is a lack of clean water and sanitation. Officials are racing to help those who are sick, and to prevent the disease from spreading to other parts of the country.
In the Water
Cholera is spread when people drink contaminated, or dirty, water. Authorities think that water from Haiti's Artibonite River is to blame for the outbreak. The river is the country's central drainage system. Waste flows into the river. Communities that do not have access to enough clean water have been drinking from the river.
"We know that the disease is affecting the community near the river," says Jean-Francois St. Felix, who works for Haiti's National Department of Water Supply and Sanitation. "We are in the middle of informing people in the region."
Education Is Key
Haiti has not had a major outbreak of cholera for more than a century. The disease is a threat in many parts of the world. There are an estimated 3 to 5 million cases every year.
"One of the biggest challenges is that Haiti is not particularly familiar with this disease," says Imogene Wall, of the United Nations. Aid workers are teaching thousands of families how to avoid the disease. Radio announcements are explaining the importance of hand washing. The International Red Cross is sending out text messages, telling people to drink only safe water.
Help Is on the Way
Aid agencies like Oxfam are making sure that affected regions have clean water and medical care. Since authorities were worried about an outbreak of disease, they stored medical supplies in the country ahead of time. As a result, Haiti has enough medicine to treat 100,000 cases of cholera.
Health experts are hopeful that they will be able to control the outbreak. "It's not difficult to prevent the spread to Port-au-Prince," said Health Ministry director Gabriel Timothee. "We can prevent it."
http://www.timeforkids.com/TFK/kids/news/story/0,28277,2027478,00.html
991029 A Race to Help Haiti-Michael
Cholera is a big disease if you want to get rid of it you need to spend a lot of time. In Haiti, they have cholera around their country. I think the most reason why they have cholera in their country is that they don’t have good hygiene-conscious so they will get sick or other disease easily. The International Red Cross is helping in Haiti for the cholera and they also tell people to drink clean water instead of dirty water because dirty water may have germs and bacteria in it. I wish they will have better hygiene-conscious.
A Race to Help Haiti
Officials are working around the clock to stop the spread of a deadly disease
BY SUZANNE ZIMBLER
Nine months after a devastating earthquake struck Haiti, more than a million people are still living in temporary camps in the capital city of Port-au-Prince. With so many people living in close quarters, officials have long feared a major outbreak of disease. Now, they are fighting to prevent a deadly disease from spreading to the camps.
A medical worker helps a mother and child at a hospital in Haiti.
Last week, in an area about 60 miles northwest of the capital, more than 3,000 people became sick with cholera (kol-er-uh). The disease can spread quickly when there is a lack of clean water and sanitation. Officials are racing to help those who are sick, and to prevent the disease from spreading to other parts of the country.
In the Water
Cholera is spread when people drink contaminated, or dirty, water. Authorities think that water from Haiti's Artibonite River is to blame for the outbreak. The river is the country's central drainage system. Waste flows into the river. Communities that do not have access to enough clean water have been drinking from the river.
"We know that the disease is affecting the community near the river," says Jean-Francois St. Felix, who works for Haiti's National Department of Water Supply and Sanitation. "We are in the middle of informing people in the region."
Education Is Key
Haiti has not had a major outbreak of cholera for more than a century. The disease is a threat in many parts of the world. There are an estimated 3 to 5 million cases every year.
"One of the biggest challenges is that Haiti is not particularly familiar with this disease," says Imogene Wall, of the United Nations. Aid workers are teaching thousands of families how to avoid the disease. Radio announcements are explaining the importance of hand washing. The International Red Cross is sending out text messages, telling people to drink only safe water.
Help Is on the Way
Aid agencies like Oxfam are making sure that affected regions have clean water and medical care. Since authorities were worried about an outbreak of disease, they stored medical supplies in the country ahead of time. As a result, Haiti has enough medicine to treat 100,000 cases of cholera.
Health experts are hopeful that they will be able to control the outbreak. "It's not difficult to prevent the spread to Port-au-Prince," said Health Ministry director Gabriel Timothee. "We can prevent it."
http://www.timeforkids.com/TFK/kids/news/story/0,28277,2027478,00.html
991029 A Race to Help Haiti-Michael
Cholera is a big disease if you want to get rid of it you need to spend a lot of time. In Haiti, they have cholera around their country. I think the most reason why they have cholera in their country is that they don’t have good hygiene-conscious so they will get sick or other disease easily. The International Red Cross is helping in Haiti for the cholera and they also tell people to drink clean water instead of dirty water because dirty water may have germs and bacteria in it. I wish they will have better hygiene-conscious.
2010年10月21日 星期四
991022 Debate!-Michael
Debate!
Do Pennies Make ents?
BY TIME FOR KIDS
A penny is only worth a cent. But each one-cent coin costs 1.7 cents to produce. That's why some people would like put an end to pennies.
Lawmakers have tried to retire the one-cent coin in the past. In 2001, a congressman tried to do away with the penny. If the "Legal Tender Modernization Act" had passed, merchants would have been required to round up or round down to the nearest nickel on all cash purchases. If the price of an item were $5.02, a customer would pay $5.00. But for a $5.03 item, he or she would be charged $5.05.
Critics of the penny point out how much money would be saved if we said goodbye to the one-cent coins. But many people think that pennies are worth saving. The coin is part of our country's history, say penny fans. After all, it was the first U.S. coin to feature a President: Abraham Lincoln.
A group called Americans for Common Cents is worried that merchants would always round up to the higher five-cent number, even if the price were actually closer to the lower five-cent number. The group also points out that there are charities that collect donations in pennies.
U.S. military bases in other countries already round purchase prices up or down because it's too expensive to ship pennies to the bases. Australia and New Zealand have retired their one-cent coins.
Should the U.S. follow their example and do away with pennies? Explain your opinion in an email to tfkasks4you@timeforkids.com. Your writing could be featured in a future issue of TIME For Kids.
http://www.timeforkids.com/TFK/kids/news/story/0,28277,1921366,00.html
991022 Debate!-Michael
Do you know that how much it will take to make a penny? If a penny worth more than one cent than making the penny will cost even more money to make it! In America this kind of thing happened! Each one-cent coin costs 1.7 cents to produce so making ten one cent coins will cost seventeen cents! If I am the money producer, I will not keep producing the money because it is too expensive to make. The coin will also make people who sell things raise the price of a thing because people who sell things want to make money that is their goal of selling things. So how will America think a good way to solve the problem?? I think they can use cheaper things to make coins. Or another way is to change the value of the money such as using the same materials to make a coin but it can be a coin that has a value of two cents. So what will the US government do? I think in Taiwan there is also a coin problem. Maybe someday later we can see Taiwan using a different kind of money and it will be very special.
Do Pennies Make ents?
BY TIME FOR KIDS
A penny is only worth a cent. But each one-cent coin costs 1.7 cents to produce. That's why some people would like put an end to pennies.
Lawmakers have tried to retire the one-cent coin in the past. In 2001, a congressman tried to do away with the penny. If the "Legal Tender Modernization Act" had passed, merchants would have been required to round up or round down to the nearest nickel on all cash purchases. If the price of an item were $5.02, a customer would pay $5.00. But for a $5.03 item, he or she would be charged $5.05.
Critics of the penny point out how much money would be saved if we said goodbye to the one-cent coins. But many people think that pennies are worth saving. The coin is part of our country's history, say penny fans. After all, it was the first U.S. coin to feature a President: Abraham Lincoln.
A group called Americans for Common Cents is worried that merchants would always round up to the higher five-cent number, even if the price were actually closer to the lower five-cent number. The group also points out that there are charities that collect donations in pennies.
U.S. military bases in other countries already round purchase prices up or down because it's too expensive to ship pennies to the bases. Australia and New Zealand have retired their one-cent coins.
Should the U.S. follow their example and do away with pennies? Explain your opinion in an email to tfkasks4you@timeforkids.com. Your writing could be featured in a future issue of TIME For Kids.
http://www.timeforkids.com/TFK/kids/news/story/0,28277,1921366,00.html
991022 Debate!-Michael
Do you know that how much it will take to make a penny? If a penny worth more than one cent than making the penny will cost even more money to make it! In America this kind of thing happened! Each one-cent coin costs 1.7 cents to produce so making ten one cent coins will cost seventeen cents! If I am the money producer, I will not keep producing the money because it is too expensive to make. The coin will also make people who sell things raise the price of a thing because people who sell things want to make money that is their goal of selling things. So how will America think a good way to solve the problem?? I think they can use cheaper things to make coins. Or another way is to change the value of the money such as using the same materials to make a coin but it can be a coin that has a value of two cents. So what will the US government do? I think in Taiwan there is also a coin problem. Maybe someday later we can see Taiwan using a different kind of money and it will be very special.
2010年10月15日 星期五
991016 A Miracle at the Mine-Michael
A Miracle at the Mine
Rescue teams bring trapped miners to freedom in Chile
BY ANDREA DELBANCO
Tears of relief and shouts of joy rang out last week at the San Jose mine in northern Chile as 33 miners were lifted to freedom, one by one. The men, ranging from 19 to 63 years old, have been buried alive since a cave in the copper and gold mine they were working collapsed on August 5. It is the longest time anyone has ever survived being trapped underground.
Buried Alive
After the collapse, the men found an emergency shelter off one of the mine's tunnels. The temperature in the dark shelter was around 90F. For more than two weeks, the miners' water came from the radiator tanks on their work vehicles. They shared a supply of food that was meant to last for only 48 hours.
The miners were totally isolated until rescue teams made contact with the men on August 22. They sent a note to the surface explaining their situation. Rescuers drilled small holes to reach the cavern and sent down supply tubes containing food, water, clothes, medicine, fresh air and other supplies. They also received letters from their families, a television set and games.
A Complicated Rescue
Additional collapses slowed down rescue efforts. Finally, a tunnel was built that could fit a 13-foot rescue capsule, called the Pheonix. The escape hole measures 28 inches across, a tight fit for the twisting 20-minute, 2,041-foot ride. The first miner reached the surface just after midnight on Wednesday. The rescue mission was faster than expected, and all 33 men had been brought to safety by late the same day.
The miners were met by family members who were waiting at Camp Hope, a settlement of tents near the mine. Chile's president, Sebastián Piñera, cheered at the scene and hugged the miners. "We made a promise never to surrender, and we kept it," he said. After an immediate medical exam, the men were air-lifted to the nearest hospital for 48 hours of observation.
http://www.timeforkids.com/TFK/kids/news/story/0,28277,2025274,00.html
991016 A Miracle at the Mine-Michael
The miners were trapped since August 5th. They have been trapped for sixty nine days. I can’t even think about what it will be like down there. When they were working the mine suddenly collapsed, so they were buried alive in the mine. The mine was even deeper than the Taipei 101 so staying in there was a difficult thing to do. The mine was very hot because it was closer to the earth crust. The first miner was rescued just after midnight on Wednesday. The miners’ family members were all waiting at the Camp Hope it was a tent near the mine even the Chile president was there. Their family members were all very worried about the miners because they had been buried alive for a long time. The rescue team used a rescue capsule, called the Phoenix to save the miners. After a long time of rescuing all the thirty three men were all rescued. All the people were very happy to see them to be rescued. After the miners were rescued they were air-lifted to the nearest hospital to get their treatment.
Rescue teams bring trapped miners to freedom in Chile
BY ANDREA DELBANCO
Tears of relief and shouts of joy rang out last week at the San Jose mine in northern Chile as 33 miners were lifted to freedom, one by one. The men, ranging from 19 to 63 years old, have been buried alive since a cave in the copper and gold mine they were working collapsed on August 5. It is the longest time anyone has ever survived being trapped underground.
Buried Alive
After the collapse, the men found an emergency shelter off one of the mine's tunnels. The temperature in the dark shelter was around 90F. For more than two weeks, the miners' water came from the radiator tanks on their work vehicles. They shared a supply of food that was meant to last for only 48 hours.
The miners were totally isolated until rescue teams made contact with the men on August 22. They sent a note to the surface explaining their situation. Rescuers drilled small holes to reach the cavern and sent down supply tubes containing food, water, clothes, medicine, fresh air and other supplies. They also received letters from their families, a television set and games.
A Complicated Rescue
Additional collapses slowed down rescue efforts. Finally, a tunnel was built that could fit a 13-foot rescue capsule, called the Pheonix. The escape hole measures 28 inches across, a tight fit for the twisting 20-minute, 2,041-foot ride. The first miner reached the surface just after midnight on Wednesday. The rescue mission was faster than expected, and all 33 men had been brought to safety by late the same day.
The miners were met by family members who were waiting at Camp Hope, a settlement of tents near the mine. Chile's president, Sebastián Piñera, cheered at the scene and hugged the miners. "We made a promise never to surrender, and we kept it," he said. After an immediate medical exam, the men were air-lifted to the nearest hospital for 48 hours of observation.
http://www.timeforkids.com/TFK/kids/news/story/0,28277,2025274,00.html
991016 A Miracle at the Mine-Michael
The miners were trapped since August 5th. They have been trapped for sixty nine days. I can’t even think about what it will be like down there. When they were working the mine suddenly collapsed, so they were buried alive in the mine. The mine was even deeper than the Taipei 101 so staying in there was a difficult thing to do. The mine was very hot because it was closer to the earth crust. The first miner was rescued just after midnight on Wednesday. The miners’ family members were all waiting at the Camp Hope it was a tent near the mine even the Chile president was there. Their family members were all very worried about the miners because they had been buried alive for a long time. The rescue team used a rescue capsule, called the Phoenix to save the miners. After a long time of rescuing all the thirty three men were all rescued. All the people were very happy to see them to be rescued. After the miners were rescued they were air-lifted to the nearest hospital to get their treatment.
2010年10月1日 星期五
991001 A Penny's Worth-Michael
A Penny's Worth
A one-of-a-kind penny sells for more than a million dollars
BY SUZANNE ZIMBLER
Some people say pennies bring good luck. Others say pennies are not worth saving. After all, a penny is only worth a cent. But one unusual penny turned out to be worth a lot more when a coin collector paid $1.7 million for it earlier this month.
The coin is one of a kind. It is the only penny that the Denver mint made out of copper, instead of steel, in 1943. Because it is unique, it is also very valuable. No penny has ever sold for this much money.
The Changing Penny
The Lincoln penny first appeared in 1909. For 34 years, the one-cent coin was made out of copper. Then, in 1943, the penny changed. World War II was going on, and copper was needed for equipment. So for one year, pennies were made out of steel instead. At least most of them were.
A small handful of coins were made out of leftover copper. There are three main mints or places where coins are made, in the United States. Of the known copper pennies from 1943, twelve were made in the Philadelphia mint, and five were made in the San Francisco mint. Only one was made in the Denver mint.
Nobody knows for sure why a copper penny was made at the Denver mint in 1943, coin-dealer Andy Skrabalak told TFK. "There's a rumor that a mint employee [made] the coin in the middle of the night," he said.
A Special Set
The coin collector who bought the $1.7 million penny wants to remain anonymous, or unknown. But the reason for his purchase is known. He already had two copper pennies from 1943—one from the San Francisco mint and one from the Philadelphia mint. To complete the set, he needed the Denver penny. The three coins will go on display at a rare-coin convention in Tampa, Florida, this January.
The collector who sold the penny is also keeping his identity a secret. It took four years to convince him to give up the rare coin. Now that he finally sold it, he is donating all of the money to charity.
http://www.timeforkids.com/TFK/kids/news/story/0,28277,2021923,00.html
991001 A Penny's Worth-Michael
A penny is just only a coin, it is not very important to people. A penny just worth 1 cent but a coin collector spends 1. 7 million dollars to buy a penny that worth one cent! Why did the coin collector do this? It is because that this penny is a very important to coin collectors they wanted to buy this special penny. This penny is the only copper penny that is made from Denver. There are three main mints that make coin they are, “Philadelphia mint”, “San Francisco mint” and “Denver mint”. The only eighteen copper coins are made from these three mints. Twelve of them were made from Philadelphia, five of them were made from San Francisco and the last one is made from Denver. One of the copper coins that cost 1.7 million is the one is from Denver. It was made in 1943. The value of a coin depends how rare it is if a coin is made from 2000 years ago, it might be very valuable. Now the American pennies are made of 97.5% of zinc and 2.5% of copper coated outside of the coin. I think these coins are very special. Maybe I can collect some coins too.
A one-of-a-kind penny sells for more than a million dollars
BY SUZANNE ZIMBLER
Some people say pennies bring good luck. Others say pennies are not worth saving. After all, a penny is only worth a cent. But one unusual penny turned out to be worth a lot more when a coin collector paid $1.7 million for it earlier this month.
The coin is one of a kind. It is the only penny that the Denver mint made out of copper, instead of steel, in 1943. Because it is unique, it is also very valuable. No penny has ever sold for this much money.
The Changing Penny
The Lincoln penny first appeared in 1909. For 34 years, the one-cent coin was made out of copper. Then, in 1943, the penny changed. World War II was going on, and copper was needed for equipment. So for one year, pennies were made out of steel instead. At least most of them were.
A small handful of coins were made out of leftover copper. There are three main mints or places where coins are made, in the United States. Of the known copper pennies from 1943, twelve were made in the Philadelphia mint, and five were made in the San Francisco mint. Only one was made in the Denver mint.
Nobody knows for sure why a copper penny was made at the Denver mint in 1943, coin-dealer Andy Skrabalak told TFK. "There's a rumor that a mint employee [made] the coin in the middle of the night," he said.
A Special Set
The coin collector who bought the $1.7 million penny wants to remain anonymous, or unknown. But the reason for his purchase is known. He already had two copper pennies from 1943—one from the San Francisco mint and one from the Philadelphia mint. To complete the set, he needed the Denver penny. The three coins will go on display at a rare-coin convention in Tampa, Florida, this January.
The collector who sold the penny is also keeping his identity a secret. It took four years to convince him to give up the rare coin. Now that he finally sold it, he is donating all of the money to charity.
http://www.timeforkids.com/TFK/kids/news/story/0,28277,2021923,00.html
991001 A Penny's Worth-Michael
A penny is just only a coin, it is not very important to people. A penny just worth 1 cent but a coin collector spends 1. 7 million dollars to buy a penny that worth one cent! Why did the coin collector do this? It is because that this penny is a very important to coin collectors they wanted to buy this special penny. This penny is the only copper penny that is made from Denver. There are three main mints that make coin they are, “Philadelphia mint”, “San Francisco mint” and “Denver mint”. The only eighteen copper coins are made from these three mints. Twelve of them were made from Philadelphia, five of them were made from San Francisco and the last one is made from Denver. One of the copper coins that cost 1.7 million is the one is from Denver. It was made in 1943. The value of a coin depends how rare it is if a coin is made from 2000 years ago, it might be very valuable. Now the American pennies are made of 97.5% of zinc and 2.5% of copper coated outside of the coin. I think these coins are very special. Maybe I can collect some coins too.
2010年9月24日 星期五
990924 It's a Bird...It's a Plane...It's Jupiter!
It's a Bird...It's a Plane...It's Jupiter!
On Monday, the planet will come closer to Earth than it has since 1963
BY SUZANNE ZIMBLER
Do you have plans tonight? How about a date with Jupiter? For the first time in nearly 50 years, the planet will be just 368 million miles away from Earth. You can catch a glimpse as the sun goes down. The planet won't appear as big or bright again for another 12 years.
A Shining Planet
Jupiter is the largest planet in the solar system. Right now, it is three times brighter than Sirius, the brightest star in the sky. Only the moon outshines Jupiter.
Around dusk on Monday, Jupiter, along with its many moons, will rise in the east. By midnight, the planet will be directly overhead. Binoculars and telescopes will not be not needed to see the planet, but they will improve the view. "Jupiter is so bright right now, you don't need a sky map to find it," says astronomer Tony Phillips. "You just walk outside and see it."
But Wait, There's More!
Jupiter is not the only planet making a rare appearance tonight. Coincidentally, Uranus will also come closer to Earth than it normally does. It is "a once in a lifetime event," says Phillips.
Uranus will be difficult to see with the naked eye. The planet will be 1.7 billion miles away from Earth—much farther than Jupiter. But through a telescope, the two planets will appear to be side-by-side. Uranus will shine like an emerald-colored disc.
If it is cloudy where you live tonight, Phillips says don't give up. Jupiter will remain relatively close for many weeks. And early risers are in luck: You can see Jupiter setting in the west just before sunrise.
http://www.timeforkids.com/TFK/kids/news/story/0,28277,2020326,00.html
990924 It's a Bird...It's a Plane...It's Jupiter! -Michael
Jupiter is a big planet. It is the first time nearly fifty years. Jupiter will be seen by naked eye on September 20th. Jupiter became very big on that day. The planet, Jupiter, will not be seen that big and bright for twelve years. That means that in twelve years, September 20th will be the greatest day to see Jupiter. I have never seen a planet with naked eye. Jupiter was so big on that day and it was also very bright. And also at that day, Uranus also can be seen on the telescope. It is just right beside Jupiter but we can not see it from our eyes we need a telescope to see it because Uranus is too far for us to see it with naked eyes. There are about 63 natural satellites around Jupiter unlike Earth, we only have one moon. Jupiter is the fifth planet from the sun and it is also the biggest planet in our solar system. Jupiter is made by a lot of gases such as hydrogen and helium. It is not like the Earth, our planet is made by rock, soil, lava, water. There is not any water or oxygen on Jupiter so we ca not live on there. Maybe if we have a chance we could go to Jupiter too.
On Monday, the planet will come closer to Earth than it has since 1963
BY SUZANNE ZIMBLER
Do you have plans tonight? How about a date with Jupiter? For the first time in nearly 50 years, the planet will be just 368 million miles away from Earth. You can catch a glimpse as the sun goes down. The planet won't appear as big or bright again for another 12 years.
A Shining Planet
Jupiter is the largest planet in the solar system. Right now, it is three times brighter than Sirius, the brightest star in the sky. Only the moon outshines Jupiter.
Around dusk on Monday, Jupiter, along with its many moons, will rise in the east. By midnight, the planet will be directly overhead. Binoculars and telescopes will not be not needed to see the planet, but they will improve the view. "Jupiter is so bright right now, you don't need a sky map to find it," says astronomer Tony Phillips. "You just walk outside and see it."
But Wait, There's More!
Jupiter is not the only planet making a rare appearance tonight. Coincidentally, Uranus will also come closer to Earth than it normally does. It is "a once in a lifetime event," says Phillips.
Uranus will be difficult to see with the naked eye. The planet will be 1.7 billion miles away from Earth—much farther than Jupiter. But through a telescope, the two planets will appear to be side-by-side. Uranus will shine like an emerald-colored disc.
If it is cloudy where you live tonight, Phillips says don't give up. Jupiter will remain relatively close for many weeks. And early risers are in luck: You can see Jupiter setting in the west just before sunrise.
http://www.timeforkids.com/TFK/kids/news/story/0,28277,2020326,00.html
990924 It's a Bird...It's a Plane...It's Jupiter! -Michael
Jupiter is a big planet. It is the first time nearly fifty years. Jupiter will be seen by naked eye on September 20th. Jupiter became very big on that day. The planet, Jupiter, will not be seen that big and bright for twelve years. That means that in twelve years, September 20th will be the greatest day to see Jupiter. I have never seen a planet with naked eye. Jupiter was so big on that day and it was also very bright. And also at that day, Uranus also can be seen on the telescope. It is just right beside Jupiter but we can not see it from our eyes we need a telescope to see it because Uranus is too far for us to see it with naked eyes. There are about 63 natural satellites around Jupiter unlike Earth, we only have one moon. Jupiter is the fifth planet from the sun and it is also the biggest planet in our solar system. Jupiter is made by a lot of gases such as hydrogen and helium. It is not like the Earth, our planet is made by rock, soil, lava, water. There is not any water or oxygen on Jupiter so we ca not live on there. Maybe if we have a chance we could go to Jupiter too.
2010年9月17日 星期五
990917 Amazing Amphibians-Michael
September 15, 2010
Amazing Amphibians
Check out these incredible facts about frogs, toads and salamanders
Courtesy Conservation International
Amphibians are amazing animals. Did you know that toads use their eyeballs to help swallow their prey? Or that there are species of salamanders that can re-grow a new leg or tail if needed? Read on to learn more interesting facts about these cool creatures.
• Amphibians live on all continents, except Antarctica.
• The goliath frog of West Africa is the world's biggest frog. Its body alone can reach almost a foot in length, and it weighs up to seven pounds. The giant frog also has the longest leap, easily clearing 10 feet in a single hop.
• The Chinese giant salamander is the world's biggest amphibian, weighing in at well over 100 pounds and reaching up to more than six feet in length.
• The toxin in one individual of the most toxic poison dart frog could kill over 90 humans.
• In Brazil, the world's only fruit-eating frog leaps with its mouth wide open at ripe fruit hanging in trees.
• The gliding frogs of Southeast Asia can "hang-glide" between trees, thanks to the extensive webbing between their toes.
• Spadefoot toads smell like peanut butter.
• The gastric brooding frog of Australia, now thought to be extinct, swallows its fertilized eggs. It raises the tadpoles in its tummy until they develop into frogs. Then the froglets come hopping out of the parents' mouth.
• A group of frogs is called an "army" of frogs, and a group of toads is a "knot" of toads.
• Some Australian frogs create their own insect repellent that resembles the smell of rotten meat, roasted cashew nuts and other scents.
• The ornate horned frog uses its powerful jaws and sharp teeth to capture rodents, birds, and other small animals. A large frog can eat an entire mouse with one swallow.
• The water-holding frog survives in the dry Australian outback by taking in so much rainwater that it blows up like a balloon.
• Frogs typically shed their skin about once a week—and usually eat it afterward.
http://www.timeforkids.com/TFK/kids/news/story/0,28277,2019443,00.html
990917 Amazing Amphibians-Michael
There are a lot of amphibians in the world. The seven continents except Antarctica all have amphibians. Amphibians are animals such as “frogs, toads, salamanders, and newts”. These animals are all cold blood animals. Amphibians are very special animals because they can live in water and on the land. Such as frogs, when the frog is born it doesn’t even look like a frog. You call a child frog –tadpole. When the tadpole frogs up it also grows legs and it will turn into a frog. When the outside changes, the inside also changes. A tadpole uses gills to breath but when it grows up it uses lungs to breath. The amphibians are very special animals. It is also special to call a group of frogs and toads. You call a group of frogs an "army" of frogs and you call a group of toads a "knot" of toads. The amphibians have a lot of interesting facts such as The largest amphibian is the Chinese giant salamander (Andrias davidianus) and also a group of salamanders that is called “plethodontids” the don’t have lungs they breathe with their skins and mouth. Isn’t that cool? There are still a lot of amphibians that scientists haven’t found out. So the world is a very special place.
Amazing Amphibians
Check out these incredible facts about frogs, toads and salamanders
Courtesy Conservation International
Amphibians are amazing animals. Did you know that toads use their eyeballs to help swallow their prey? Or that there are species of salamanders that can re-grow a new leg or tail if needed? Read on to learn more interesting facts about these cool creatures.
• Amphibians live on all continents, except Antarctica.
• The goliath frog of West Africa is the world's biggest frog. Its body alone can reach almost a foot in length, and it weighs up to seven pounds. The giant frog also has the longest leap, easily clearing 10 feet in a single hop.
• The Chinese giant salamander is the world's biggest amphibian, weighing in at well over 100 pounds and reaching up to more than six feet in length.
• The toxin in one individual of the most toxic poison dart frog could kill over 90 humans.
• In Brazil, the world's only fruit-eating frog leaps with its mouth wide open at ripe fruit hanging in trees.
• The gliding frogs of Southeast Asia can "hang-glide" between trees, thanks to the extensive webbing between their toes.
• Spadefoot toads smell like peanut butter.
• The gastric brooding frog of Australia, now thought to be extinct, swallows its fertilized eggs. It raises the tadpoles in its tummy until they develop into frogs. Then the froglets come hopping out of the parents' mouth.
• A group of frogs is called an "army" of frogs, and a group of toads is a "knot" of toads.
• Some Australian frogs create their own insect repellent that resembles the smell of rotten meat, roasted cashew nuts and other scents.
• The ornate horned frog uses its powerful jaws and sharp teeth to capture rodents, birds, and other small animals. A large frog can eat an entire mouse with one swallow.
• The water-holding frog survives in the dry Australian outback by taking in so much rainwater that it blows up like a balloon.
• Frogs typically shed their skin about once a week—and usually eat it afterward.
http://www.timeforkids.com/TFK/kids/news/story/0,28277,2019443,00.html
990917 Amazing Amphibians-Michael
There are a lot of amphibians in the world. The seven continents except Antarctica all have amphibians. Amphibians are animals such as “frogs, toads, salamanders, and newts”. These animals are all cold blood animals. Amphibians are very special animals because they can live in water and on the land. Such as frogs, when the frog is born it doesn’t even look like a frog. You call a child frog –tadpole. When the tadpole frogs up it also grows legs and it will turn into a frog. When the outside changes, the inside also changes. A tadpole uses gills to breath but when it grows up it uses lungs to breath. The amphibians are very special animals. It is also special to call a group of frogs and toads. You call a group of frogs an "army" of frogs and you call a group of toads a "knot" of toads. The amphibians have a lot of interesting facts such as The largest amphibian is the Chinese giant salamander (Andrias davidianus) and also a group of salamanders that is called “plethodontids” the don’t have lungs they breathe with their skins and mouth. Isn’t that cool? There are still a lot of amphibians that scientists haven’t found out. So the world is a very special place.
2010年9月10日 星期五
990910 Wildfires Rip Through Colorado –Michael
Wildfires Rip Through Colorado
A fast-moving wildfire destroys dozens of homes near Boulder
BY CLAUDIA ATTICOT
Strong winds—some with gusts of 45 miles per hour—spread a large wildfire through Fourmile Canyon near Boulder, Colorado, on Monday morning. The blaze forced more than 3,000 people out of their homes. So far, officials say about 1,000 homes have been evacuated and dozens have been destroyed.
Fast-Moving Flames
The five-square-mile blaze spread quickly through three canyons, causing officials to close roads. Giant plumes of smoke filled the sky, some of which could be seen for miles.
Tom Neur, whose house was destroyed by the fire, drove through a wall of flames to escape the fast-moving fire. "The bumper is melted off in the front of the van," he said. His wife, Anna, who had been evacuated earlier, was relieved to hear that he had survived the blaze. "I don't care about the house," she told him. "I'm just glad you're ok."
No Cause Yet
Officials say they have not determined the cause of the fire, but area residents think dry weather is to blame. "We haven't had any rain in almost a month. Maybe more than a month," said Craig Douglas, who was forced to leave his home. "The humidity the last couple of days had been in the single digits, so it was a fire waiting to happen."
Nancy Engellenner and her husband Philip Helper believe they may have lost their home in the fire. "The way the wind was, it was just spitting flames everywhere," said Engellenner. They won't know for sure until it's safe to return to the area.
Although high winds make the fire difficult to control, firefighters hope to have it completely under control by Tuesday.
http://www.timeforkids.com/TFK/kids/news/story/0,28277,2016479,00.html
990910 Wildfires Rip Through Colorado –Michael
There was a big fire in Fourmile Canyon, Colorado. The fire was very big and very scary. The big fire has destroyed one thousand homes and there were about three thousand people had no homes to live because of the big fire. The fire burnt a lot of places and a lot of people had just escaped from the deadly fire. The reason of the wildfire is because of the dry weather. It didn’t rain for about one month and all the dry woods might be the reason of the dry woods. The dry forest doesn’t have enough water so it causes big fire. The wildfire not only burned a lot tree but also damaged the environment. The wildfire might also cause mudslides and air pollution. When the tree burns it will make a lot of carbon dioxide (CO2) the carbon dioxide will cause the global warming and the earth will get hotter and hotter. When the atmosphere has too much carbon dioxide, it will make a lot of problems. So having a wildfire isn’t really a good thing.
A fast-moving wildfire destroys dozens of homes near Boulder
BY CLAUDIA ATTICOT
Strong winds—some with gusts of 45 miles per hour—spread a large wildfire through Fourmile Canyon near Boulder, Colorado, on Monday morning. The blaze forced more than 3,000 people out of their homes. So far, officials say about 1,000 homes have been evacuated and dozens have been destroyed.
Fast-Moving Flames
The five-square-mile blaze spread quickly through three canyons, causing officials to close roads. Giant plumes of smoke filled the sky, some of which could be seen for miles.
Tom Neur, whose house was destroyed by the fire, drove through a wall of flames to escape the fast-moving fire. "The bumper is melted off in the front of the van," he said. His wife, Anna, who had been evacuated earlier, was relieved to hear that he had survived the blaze. "I don't care about the house," she told him. "I'm just glad you're ok."
No Cause Yet
Officials say they have not determined the cause of the fire, but area residents think dry weather is to blame. "We haven't had any rain in almost a month. Maybe more than a month," said Craig Douglas, who was forced to leave his home. "The humidity the last couple of days had been in the single digits, so it was a fire waiting to happen."
Nancy Engellenner and her husband Philip Helper believe they may have lost their home in the fire. "The way the wind was, it was just spitting flames everywhere," said Engellenner. They won't know for sure until it's safe to return to the area.
Although high winds make the fire difficult to control, firefighters hope to have it completely under control by Tuesday.
http://www.timeforkids.com/TFK/kids/news/story/0,28277,2016479,00.html
990910 Wildfires Rip Through Colorado –Michael
There was a big fire in Fourmile Canyon, Colorado. The fire was very big and very scary. The big fire has destroyed one thousand homes and there were about three thousand people had no homes to live because of the big fire. The fire burnt a lot of places and a lot of people had just escaped from the deadly fire. The reason of the wildfire is because of the dry weather. It didn’t rain for about one month and all the dry woods might be the reason of the dry woods. The dry forest doesn’t have enough water so it causes big fire. The wildfire not only burned a lot tree but also damaged the environment. The wildfire might also cause mudslides and air pollution. When the tree burns it will make a lot of carbon dioxide (CO2) the carbon dioxide will cause the global warming and the earth will get hotter and hotter. When the atmosphere has too much carbon dioxide, it will make a lot of problems. So having a wildfire isn’t really a good thing.
2010年9月3日 星期五
Understanding Labor Day
Understanding Labor Day
Americans set aside a day to honor the nation's workers
To many Americans, Labor Day marks the end of the summer, a day off from work and school, and one last chance to relax. But Labor Day is much more than just a day off. It represents a very important victory for laborers everywhere. The holiday is a celebration of the social and economic achievements of American workers.
Fighting for Change
More than a century ago, workers were forced to deal with harsh conditions. They were paid very little, and they often worked 10- to 12-hour days. Men, women and even small children were forced to work even when they were sick.
Tired of long hours and dangerous conditions, workers began organizing themselves into labor unions. On top of fighting for higher pay and shorter workdays, they also fought for the rights of children. The workers wanted employers to place limits on the age of their workers so that small children were not overworked or hurt in factories.
A Holiday for Workers
A New York City carpenter named Peter McGuire is credited for coming up the idea for Labor Day. In 1872, after working many long hours under poor conditions, McGuire rallied 100,000 workers to go on strike. The workers marched through the streets of New York City, demanding a better work environment.
McGuire spent a decade fighting for worker's rights. In 1882, he proposed the idea to create a special holiday for workers. On Tuesday, September 5, 1882, more than 10,000 workers hit the streets of New York City for the first ever Labor Day parade. Two years later the celebration was moved to the first Monday in September. And in 1894, Congress passed a law making Labor Day a national holiday.
A Relaxing Celebration
Americans celebrated the first Labor Day holiday with a parade, picnics and fireworks. Today, many people hit the road to enjoy the last of their summer vacation. Others enjoy the long weekend with picnics, backyard barbecues or just rest and relaxation.
However you spend Labor Day, remember that the holiday is a time to pay tribute to the workers who have made America what it is today.
http://www.timeforkids.com/TFK/kids/news/story/0,28277,1836908,00.html
990903 Understanding Labor Day –Michael
I think the Labor Day is a very important holiday. It has a great meaning to all the labors. More than a century before, workers were forced to work in bad conditions. Such as working with a long time to get a little money or they have to work even when they are sick and not healthy. It was not good for the labors to work such a long time to just get little money so the labors started to fight for their fundamental rights. They fought for higher paid and shorter workdays, and they also fought for the children’s right. The labors wanted employers to place limits on the age of their workers so that small children will not get injured while they are working. A New York City carpenter called Peter McGuire, he stands out and fights for all the labors right. On Tuesday, September 5, 1882, more than 10,000 workers hit the streets of New York City for the first ever Labor Day parade. This parade let the Congress of America made the Labor Day into a national holiday. So I think that Peter McGuire is a great man, he fights the right for all the labors!
Americans set aside a day to honor the nation's workers
To many Americans, Labor Day marks the end of the summer, a day off from work and school, and one last chance to relax. But Labor Day is much more than just a day off. It represents a very important victory for laborers everywhere. The holiday is a celebration of the social and economic achievements of American workers.
Fighting for Change
More than a century ago, workers were forced to deal with harsh conditions. They were paid very little, and they often worked 10- to 12-hour days. Men, women and even small children were forced to work even when they were sick.
Tired of long hours and dangerous conditions, workers began organizing themselves into labor unions. On top of fighting for higher pay and shorter workdays, they also fought for the rights of children. The workers wanted employers to place limits on the age of their workers so that small children were not overworked or hurt in factories.
A Holiday for Workers
A New York City carpenter named Peter McGuire is credited for coming up the idea for Labor Day. In 1872, after working many long hours under poor conditions, McGuire rallied 100,000 workers to go on strike. The workers marched through the streets of New York City, demanding a better work environment.
McGuire spent a decade fighting for worker's rights. In 1882, he proposed the idea to create a special holiday for workers. On Tuesday, September 5, 1882, more than 10,000 workers hit the streets of New York City for the first ever Labor Day parade. Two years later the celebration was moved to the first Monday in September. And in 1894, Congress passed a law making Labor Day a national holiday.
A Relaxing Celebration
Americans celebrated the first Labor Day holiday with a parade, picnics and fireworks. Today, many people hit the road to enjoy the last of their summer vacation. Others enjoy the long weekend with picnics, backyard barbecues or just rest and relaxation.
However you spend Labor Day, remember that the holiday is a time to pay tribute to the workers who have made America what it is today.
http://www.timeforkids.com/TFK/kids/news/story/0,28277,1836908,00.html
990903 Understanding Labor Day –Michael
I think the Labor Day is a very important holiday. It has a great meaning to all the labors. More than a century before, workers were forced to work in bad conditions. Such as working with a long time to get a little money or they have to work even when they are sick and not healthy. It was not good for the labors to work such a long time to just get little money so the labors started to fight for their fundamental rights. They fought for higher paid and shorter workdays, and they also fought for the children’s right. The labors wanted employers to place limits on the age of their workers so that small children will not get injured while they are working. A New York City carpenter called Peter McGuire, he stands out and fights for all the labors right. On Tuesday, September 5, 1882, more than 10,000 workers hit the streets of New York City for the first ever Labor Day parade. This parade let the Congress of America made the Labor Day into a national holiday. So I think that Peter McGuire is a great man, he fights the right for all the labors!
2010年8月28日 星期六
A Lot Like Our Solar System
August 25, 2010
A Lot Like Our Solar System
Astronomers have made an exciting planet discovery
BY SUZANNE ZIMBLER
Picture our solar system. In the center, there's our star, the sun. Orbiting the sun are eight planets, including Earth. But what about planets outside of our solar system?
About 15 years ago, scientists developed the tools to detect these "exoplanets." Since then, they have spotted about 450. Most of the finds include one, two or three enormous gas-filled planets orbiting a star.
But on Tuesday, a group of European scientists announced an unusual discovery. They say they have identified a solar system that is similar to ours. It is made up of as many as seven planets orbiting a sun-like star. The star is more than 100 light-years away from us. A light-year is nearly 6 trillion miles. (A trillion is a million million!)
A Small, Small World
The five planets that the scientists are most certain about are giant—up to 25 times the size of Earth. According to Christophe Lovis, one of the scientists behind the find, these five planets are similar to Neptune. "They are made essentially of rocks and ice," he said. "They are probably not habitable."
There are also signs of two more planets. One is thought to be similar to Saturn. The other may be the smallest exoplanet ever spotted. It is only slightly larger than Earth. Because it is so close to its star, the small planet takes just over a day to orbit it.
Planet Hunting
Spotting faraway planets is challenging. The blazing light given off by the star they orbit makes the planets hard to see. According to the European Southern Observatory, the task is like "spotting a dim candle in front of a raging forest fire."
That is why we cannot yet be 100% sure about these seven planets. The scientists have not actually seen them. Instead, they used a powerful telescope to study the star for six years. The star gave the scientists clues about the planets that orbit it.
According to scientist Alan Boss, who was not involved with the study, this method is best for "finding the big guys." But, he said, the discovery shows that spotting smaller planets is also possible.
"The really nice thing about finding systems like this is that it shows that there are many more out there," says Boss. "Mother Nature really had fun making planets."
http://www.timeforkids.com/TFK/kids/news/story/0,28277,2013396,00.html
990828 A Lot Like Our Solar System-Michael
The universe is a special place. There are still a lot of things that we don’t know about it. Such as new stars, new planets, new systems or even new living creatures that are in space. A group of European scientists had discovered a new system that was similar to our solar system. In the middle of that system has a star that is just like the sun. There are also seven planets surrounding the star in the middle just like ours. The star is more than 100 light-years away from us. A light-year is nearly 6 trillion miles. So the star is very far from us. But the European scientists said that there aren’t any living creatures and air on the planets. Rock and ice is what that covers on the planets. Scientists will still find out more things about the system that is similar to us.
A Lot Like Our Solar System
Astronomers have made an exciting planet discovery
BY SUZANNE ZIMBLER
Picture our solar system. In the center, there's our star, the sun. Orbiting the sun are eight planets, including Earth. But what about planets outside of our solar system?
About 15 years ago, scientists developed the tools to detect these "exoplanets." Since then, they have spotted about 450. Most of the finds include one, two or three enormous gas-filled planets orbiting a star.
But on Tuesday, a group of European scientists announced an unusual discovery. They say they have identified a solar system that is similar to ours. It is made up of as many as seven planets orbiting a sun-like star. The star is more than 100 light-years away from us. A light-year is nearly 6 trillion miles. (A trillion is a million million!)
A Small, Small World
The five planets that the scientists are most certain about are giant—up to 25 times the size of Earth. According to Christophe Lovis, one of the scientists behind the find, these five planets are similar to Neptune. "They are made essentially of rocks and ice," he said. "They are probably not habitable."
There are also signs of two more planets. One is thought to be similar to Saturn. The other may be the smallest exoplanet ever spotted. It is only slightly larger than Earth. Because it is so close to its star, the small planet takes just over a day to orbit it.
Planet Hunting
Spotting faraway planets is challenging. The blazing light given off by the star they orbit makes the planets hard to see. According to the European Southern Observatory, the task is like "spotting a dim candle in front of a raging forest fire."
That is why we cannot yet be 100% sure about these seven planets. The scientists have not actually seen them. Instead, they used a powerful telescope to study the star for six years. The star gave the scientists clues about the planets that orbit it.
According to scientist Alan Boss, who was not involved with the study, this method is best for "finding the big guys." But, he said, the discovery shows that spotting smaller planets is also possible.
"The really nice thing about finding systems like this is that it shows that there are many more out there," says Boss. "Mother Nature really had fun making planets."
http://www.timeforkids.com/TFK/kids/news/story/0,28277,2013396,00.html
990828 A Lot Like Our Solar System-Michael
The universe is a special place. There are still a lot of things that we don’t know about it. Such as new stars, new planets, new systems or even new living creatures that are in space. A group of European scientists had discovered a new system that was similar to our solar system. In the middle of that system has a star that is just like the sun. There are also seven planets surrounding the star in the middle just like ours. The star is more than 100 light-years away from us. A light-year is nearly 6 trillion miles. So the star is very far from us. But the European scientists said that there aren’t any living creatures and air on the planets. Rock and ice is what that covers on the planets. Scientists will still find out more things about the system that is similar to us.
2010年7月17日 星期六
Viva España!
June 12, 2010
Viva España!
Spain beats the Netherlands 1-0 in the final match of the World Cup soccer championship
BY RACHAEL HOROWITZ
Spain was victorious against the Netherlands in the final game of the World Cup on Sunday. Playing before a crowd of 84,490, the teams fought into overtime in a close match that was decided by a single goal in the 116th minute. The match was one of many close games during the month-long soccer tournament hosted in South Africa.
"You felt that the team that would score first would win," said Bert van Marwijk, the coach for the Dutch team. His feeling was correct. Andrés Iniesta scored the only goal of the game, taking the win for Spain. "It just had to go in," Iniesta said.
A Tough Match
Neither team had ever won the World Cup. The loss was particularly hard for the Netherlands. This was the team's third unsuccessful trip to the World Cup finals.
The referee handed out a record 14 yellow cards during the game. Yellow cards are given as an official caution to players for offenses such as unsportsmanlike behavior.
If a player receives two cautions, he must leave the game. This happened to the Netherlands' John Heitinga, leaving the team one player short for the last 11 minutes of the game.
Victory for an Underdog
The Netherlands was the unofficial home team of the final game. The crowd was mostly dressed in orange, the Dutch team's color. The Spanish team, which had never before made it to a World Cup final, was viewed as the match's underdog.
Spain began the World Cup with a loss to Switzerland, but came back strong, winning every following match. This is the first time in the tournament's history that a team that lost its opening game went on to win the title.
After scoring the winning goal, Iniesta ripped off his jersey. His teammates immediately surrounded him, celebrating their hard-fought victory.
"We have all done an incredible job," Iniesta said.
990717 Viva España!-Michael
The World Cup has a new champion! It is Spain; Spain had won the World Cup’s champion! In the final game of the World Cup on last Sunday, Spain was going to play with the Netherlands. It was a very exiting match! There were about eighty thousands of crowds in the stadium. Everybody was cheering and shouting all around. The wanted their team to win the champion. When Spain and the Netherlands were playing their match they didn’t scored any points a long time. Until the game was almost over, just in the one hundred and sixteenth minute, Spain’s soccer player, Andrés Iniesta had given a shot, and finally the soccer ball went in the goal and all the Spanish fans were all shouting. They had known that their country had won the champion. After scoring the goal, Andrés Iniesta ripped of his clothes and all his teammates came to surround him! The Spanish were all happy, after the game in South Africa they went back to their home country. Everyone was celebrating for their victory. Although Spain lost their game at first but winning all the games after that! It was a tight game but still they have made it!
Viva España!
Spain beats the Netherlands 1-0 in the final match of the World Cup soccer championship
BY RACHAEL HOROWITZ
Spain was victorious against the Netherlands in the final game of the World Cup on Sunday. Playing before a crowd of 84,490, the teams fought into overtime in a close match that was decided by a single goal in the 116th minute. The match was one of many close games during the month-long soccer tournament hosted in South Africa.
"You felt that the team that would score first would win," said Bert van Marwijk, the coach for the Dutch team. His feeling was correct. Andrés Iniesta scored the only goal of the game, taking the win for Spain. "It just had to go in," Iniesta said.
A Tough Match
Neither team had ever won the World Cup. The loss was particularly hard for the Netherlands. This was the team's third unsuccessful trip to the World Cup finals.
The referee handed out a record 14 yellow cards during the game. Yellow cards are given as an official caution to players for offenses such as unsportsmanlike behavior.
If a player receives two cautions, he must leave the game. This happened to the Netherlands' John Heitinga, leaving the team one player short for the last 11 minutes of the game.
Victory for an Underdog
The Netherlands was the unofficial home team of the final game. The crowd was mostly dressed in orange, the Dutch team's color. The Spanish team, which had never before made it to a World Cup final, was viewed as the match's underdog.
Spain began the World Cup with a loss to Switzerland, but came back strong, winning every following match. This is the first time in the tournament's history that a team that lost its opening game went on to win the title.
After scoring the winning goal, Iniesta ripped off his jersey. His teammates immediately surrounded him, celebrating their hard-fought victory.
"We have all done an incredible job," Iniesta said.
990717 Viva España!-Michael
The World Cup has a new champion! It is Spain; Spain had won the World Cup’s champion! In the final game of the World Cup on last Sunday, Spain was going to play with the Netherlands. It was a very exiting match! There were about eighty thousands of crowds in the stadium. Everybody was cheering and shouting all around. The wanted their team to win the champion. When Spain and the Netherlands were playing their match they didn’t scored any points a long time. Until the game was almost over, just in the one hundred and sixteenth minute, Spain’s soccer player, Andrés Iniesta had given a shot, and finally the soccer ball went in the goal and all the Spanish fans were all shouting. They had known that their country had won the champion. After scoring the goal, Andrés Iniesta ripped of his clothes and all his teammates came to surround him! The Spanish were all happy, after the game in South Africa they went back to their home country. Everyone was celebrating for their victory. Although Spain lost their game at first but winning all the games after that! It was a tight game but still they have made it!
2010年7月2日 星期五
Stormy Weather Hits the Gulf
June 30, 2010
Stormy Weather Hits the Gulf
Strong winds from Hurricane Alex slow cleanup efforts for the oil spill
BY JARED T. MILLER
Cleaning up the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico is a full-time job—but not this week. Hurricane Alex, currently a Category 1 hurricane headed towards the Texas-Mexico coast, has put a halt to cleanup efforts for the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Although Alex's projected path is west of the affected areas, winds from the edge of the storm are already creating six-foot waves and winds over 25 miles per hour. The hurricane is expected to make landfall on Wednesday night.
Buildup on the Bayou
Ships near the site of the original rig explosion are continuing skimming work, unaffected by the weather. But many crews responsible for clearing oil from the beaches and waters of the Gulf of Mexico have been ordered to put their efforts on hold until the hurricane passes. In Louisiana, oil has washed up on beaches that had been free of the toxic substance, erasing progress that has been made in the Gulf so far.
"The sad thing is that it's been about three weeks since we had any big oil come in here," said marine science technician Michael Malone, about Grand Isle and Elmer's Island, Louisiana. Tar balls the size of apples have hit the beaches this week. Because of the weather, officials have had to move barges that were blocking the oil from reaching important wetland areas. Workers have also had to reposition floating containment boom.
Winds from the storm haven't helped the beach cleanup crews, either. Workers are fighting gusts that blow sand into their eyes and mouths as they make their way across the coastline. Humidity, higher than usual because of the weather, is causing the oil-soaked sand to stick to the workers' skin. On Monday, officials from New Orleans reported oil entering nearby Barataria Bay, an area that diverse wildlife species call home.
Help from Alex?
Others are more hopeful about the stormy weather. Scientists have suggested that choppy waves from the storm will break the oil apart and make it evaporate faster. "It's good news because there is less on the surface," Coast Guard Commander Joe Higgens said. "It's surface oil that washes up on the beaches." The waves, combined with chemicals sprayed by the Coast Guard, have broken up a 6-by-30-mile oil patch into smaller pieces, Higgens said.
In the meantime, the U.S. has accepted international assistance. Help is on the way from Mexico, Norway, Holland and Japan in the form of skimmer boats. Canada is providing more containment boom to stop the oil from hitting shorelines, and Croatia has offered technical advice.
990702 Stormy weather hits the Gulf-Michael
It is a very big work to clean up oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. There were a lot of oils split out from the pipes because the pipes were broken. There is a hurricane going to strike the Texas-Mexico coast. The winds from the edge of the storm, Hurricane Alex, are already creating six-foot waves and winds over 25 miles per hour. So it will be a hard work to clean up the oils in the ocean. Now, most of the crews who clean the oil from the beaches and waters of the Gulf of Mexico have been ordered to put their efforts on hold until the hurricane passes. The workers are waiting for the hurricane to pass and start to clean up the oil until the weather gets better. Some scientist said that the choppy waves from the storm will break the oil apart and make it evaporate faster. When the oil breaks apart it will also help the workers easier to clean up the oil because the oil that floats on the ocean is really a big problem for the American government and the Mexico government. Maybe some days later the can clean up all the oil to make the environment better.
Stormy Weather Hits the Gulf
Strong winds from Hurricane Alex slow cleanup efforts for the oil spill
BY JARED T. MILLER
Cleaning up the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico is a full-time job—but not this week. Hurricane Alex, currently a Category 1 hurricane headed towards the Texas-Mexico coast, has put a halt to cleanup efforts for the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Although Alex's projected path is west of the affected areas, winds from the edge of the storm are already creating six-foot waves and winds over 25 miles per hour. The hurricane is expected to make landfall on Wednesday night.
Buildup on the Bayou
Ships near the site of the original rig explosion are continuing skimming work, unaffected by the weather. But many crews responsible for clearing oil from the beaches and waters of the Gulf of Mexico have been ordered to put their efforts on hold until the hurricane passes. In Louisiana, oil has washed up on beaches that had been free of the toxic substance, erasing progress that has been made in the Gulf so far.
"The sad thing is that it's been about three weeks since we had any big oil come in here," said marine science technician Michael Malone, about Grand Isle and Elmer's Island, Louisiana. Tar balls the size of apples have hit the beaches this week. Because of the weather, officials have had to move barges that were blocking the oil from reaching important wetland areas. Workers have also had to reposition floating containment boom.
Winds from the storm haven't helped the beach cleanup crews, either. Workers are fighting gusts that blow sand into their eyes and mouths as they make their way across the coastline. Humidity, higher than usual because of the weather, is causing the oil-soaked sand to stick to the workers' skin. On Monday, officials from New Orleans reported oil entering nearby Barataria Bay, an area that diverse wildlife species call home.
Help from Alex?
Others are more hopeful about the stormy weather. Scientists have suggested that choppy waves from the storm will break the oil apart and make it evaporate faster. "It's good news because there is less on the surface," Coast Guard Commander Joe Higgens said. "It's surface oil that washes up on the beaches." The waves, combined with chemicals sprayed by the Coast Guard, have broken up a 6-by-30-mile oil patch into smaller pieces, Higgens said.
In the meantime, the U.S. has accepted international assistance. Help is on the way from Mexico, Norway, Holland and Japan in the form of skimmer boats. Canada is providing more containment boom to stop the oil from hitting shorelines, and Croatia has offered technical advice.
990702 Stormy weather hits the Gulf-Michael
It is a very big work to clean up oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. There were a lot of oils split out from the pipes because the pipes were broken. There is a hurricane going to strike the Texas-Mexico coast. The winds from the edge of the storm, Hurricane Alex, are already creating six-foot waves and winds over 25 miles per hour. So it will be a hard work to clean up the oils in the ocean. Now, most of the crews who clean the oil from the beaches and waters of the Gulf of Mexico have been ordered to put their efforts on hold until the hurricane passes. The workers are waiting for the hurricane to pass and start to clean up the oil until the weather gets better. Some scientist said that the choppy waves from the storm will break the oil apart and make it evaporate faster. When the oil breaks apart it will also help the workers easier to clean up the oil because the oil that floats on the ocean is really a big problem for the American government and the Mexico government. Maybe some days later the can clean up all the oil to make the environment better.
2010年6月18日 星期五
Should this Ball Be Dropped?
June 14, 2010
Should this Ball Be Dropped?
Soccer players complain about the official match ball of the World Cup
BY ALEXANDRA DIPALMA
Every four years, sports fans across the globe turn their attention to the World Cup, the world's biggest soccer tournament. On Friday, June 11, the event kicked off in South Africa.
The U.S. team's first game, against England, ended in a 1-1 tie. The U.S. goal was scored when England goalkeeper Robert Green let a shot by American Clint Dempsey slip through his hands. Green took full responsibility for the blunder, calling it a "horrible mistake."
But not all players are taking the blame for mistakes made on the soccer field. Instead, some are blaming the ball. The ball, designed by Adidas, is said to be too light and too unpredictable. Adidas has named the ball Jabulani, which means, "to celebrate" in Zulu, one of South Africa's main languages. But so far, no one has been celebrating the new design.
On the Ball
Italian player Giampaolo Pazzini calls the ball a "disaster." England goalkeeper David James agrees. "The ball is dreadful," James said. Brazil goalkeeper Julio Cesar went so far as to compare the new ball to something from the "grocery store."
Despite the complaints, Adidas says the ball is a technological achievement. It is perfectly round and made of eight molded panels, fewer than ever before. The ball also features 11 colors. They represent 11 players on a team, the 11 official languages in South Africa and the 11th straight World Cup for which Adidas has designed the game ball.
The company claims the new design allows players to have perfect control of the ball in all conditions. "The ball is much more accurate, making the best players in the world even better," said Adidas spokesman Thomas van Schaik. "If they kick the ball, they want it to go where they are aiming for, and even the goalkeepers get a better idea of where the ball is going."
Out of Control
So far, the players have found the opposite to be true. The main problem, they say, is the fact that the ball is extremely hard to control due to its weight and shape. Players complain that they are unable to properly judge the ball's path.
"It's very weird," said Brazil striker Luis Fabiano. "All of a sudden it changes on you. It's like it doesn't want to be kicked. It's like someone is guiding it."
The soccer ball has come a long way from the clunky leather balls used when the game first began in the mid 1800s. But players are not impressed with Jabulani's technological features. "Technology is not everything," said Marcus Hahnemann, the American goalkeeper.
The debate over the ball has not affected sales. Adidas has already sold twice the number of balls in the U.S. than were sold in 2006. And if you don't mind Jabulani's bad reputation, it can be yours — for $150!
990618 Should this Ball Be Dropped?---Michael
Every four years, the biggest soccer tournament “World Cup” is back! Every sports fan turns their attentions to the “World Cup”. The game starts in South Africa. Every team for the world comes to South Africa to play the game. The new soccer ball this time was designed by Adidas. They named the ball “Jabulani” it means “to celebrate” in Zulu. In fact, the truth is that nobody is celebrating this ball. A lot of people blamed of the ball. Some people even call it “disaster” because it is really dreadful. Although the spokesman of Adidas, Thomas van Schaik said that the ball is very light and easy to control it also has a good accuracy, too. But again, the truth is always different from what the spokesman said. It was totally opposite because a lot of player said that the ball is too light to kick and it flies away easily, so most of the player said that the ball was very awful. The first game of U.S. was played with England. They ended with a score of 1:1. It was a tie. Most of the people put their attention in the “World Cup”. Maybe there will be more exiting games later.
Should this Ball Be Dropped?
Soccer players complain about the official match ball of the World Cup
BY ALEXANDRA DIPALMA
Every four years, sports fans across the globe turn their attention to the World Cup, the world's biggest soccer tournament. On Friday, June 11, the event kicked off in South Africa.
The U.S. team's first game, against England, ended in a 1-1 tie. The U.S. goal was scored when England goalkeeper Robert Green let a shot by American Clint Dempsey slip through his hands. Green took full responsibility for the blunder, calling it a "horrible mistake."
But not all players are taking the blame for mistakes made on the soccer field. Instead, some are blaming the ball. The ball, designed by Adidas, is said to be too light and too unpredictable. Adidas has named the ball Jabulani, which means, "to celebrate" in Zulu, one of South Africa's main languages. But so far, no one has been celebrating the new design.
On the Ball
Italian player Giampaolo Pazzini calls the ball a "disaster." England goalkeeper David James agrees. "The ball is dreadful," James said. Brazil goalkeeper Julio Cesar went so far as to compare the new ball to something from the "grocery store."
Despite the complaints, Adidas says the ball is a technological achievement. It is perfectly round and made of eight molded panels, fewer than ever before. The ball also features 11 colors. They represent 11 players on a team, the 11 official languages in South Africa and the 11th straight World Cup for which Adidas has designed the game ball.
The company claims the new design allows players to have perfect control of the ball in all conditions. "The ball is much more accurate, making the best players in the world even better," said Adidas spokesman Thomas van Schaik. "If they kick the ball, they want it to go where they are aiming for, and even the goalkeepers get a better idea of where the ball is going."
Out of Control
So far, the players have found the opposite to be true. The main problem, they say, is the fact that the ball is extremely hard to control due to its weight and shape. Players complain that they are unable to properly judge the ball's path.
"It's very weird," said Brazil striker Luis Fabiano. "All of a sudden it changes on you. It's like it doesn't want to be kicked. It's like someone is guiding it."
The soccer ball has come a long way from the clunky leather balls used when the game first began in the mid 1800s. But players are not impressed with Jabulani's technological features. "Technology is not everything," said Marcus Hahnemann, the American goalkeeper.
The debate over the ball has not affected sales. Adidas has already sold twice the number of balls in the U.S. than were sold in 2006. And if you don't mind Jabulani's bad reputation, it can be yours — for $150!
990618 Should this Ball Be Dropped?---Michael
Every four years, the biggest soccer tournament “World Cup” is back! Every sports fan turns their attentions to the “World Cup”. The game starts in South Africa. Every team for the world comes to South Africa to play the game. The new soccer ball this time was designed by Adidas. They named the ball “Jabulani” it means “to celebrate” in Zulu. In fact, the truth is that nobody is celebrating this ball. A lot of people blamed of the ball. Some people even call it “disaster” because it is really dreadful. Although the spokesman of Adidas, Thomas van Schaik said that the ball is very light and easy to control it also has a good accuracy, too. But again, the truth is always different from what the spokesman said. It was totally opposite because a lot of player said that the ball is too light to kick and it flies away easily, so most of the player said that the ball was very awful. The first game of U.S. was played with England. They ended with a score of 1:1. It was a tie. Most of the people put their attention in the “World Cup”. Maybe there will be more exiting games later.
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