The Lexington Humane Society

The Lexington Humane Society

April

            The Lexington Humane Society is an excellent organization that takes care of animals as long as they are financially able. To keep this awesome organization running, they are currently in need of generous donations, such as:

·         Cash donations

·         Timothy hay/Alfalfa, for small animals

·         Flat (not fitted) sheets, towels, and pillow cases

·         Pee pads for the Spay’s The Way surgery program

·         Rubbing alcohol

·         Canned cat food (all brands)

·         Dog/Cat toys

·         HE (High Efficiency) laundry detergent

·         Bleach (liquid or powder)

·         3-4 dorm size refrigerators without freezers

·         MELT AWAY Halite Rock Salt for de-icing  

Here are what some of our students have to say about their experiences at the Humane Society:

 “I enjoyed going to the humane society, it was a very enjoyable experience. We had seen a lot of cute puppies and dogs. It touched me, I literally almost cried. It reminded me of the sad commercials that you see on late night television, those commercials kill me, because animals get mistreated for no reason.” People can be so cruel.

“I really enjoyed going to the humane society and getting to see all of the puppies and playing with them. It’s sad to see them there, in the cages with no home. They just want to be loved but the place is very clean and they have a place to eat and sleep. They play with each other and you can take them out and walk them it was very emotional you get attached to the dogs, I wanted to take them all home with me, they were so nice!”

“My experience at the Humane Society was sad but yet enjoyable. It’s sad to see the dogs all cooped up in such a small place, but volunteers and people looking around take the dogs outside, you can even take them into a play room. They have these places for the dogs so that people can connect and get to know the dog before hand, and so the other dogs don't get jealous and start barking. There are so many sweet dogs. A lot of people want puppies. I have a dog from a Humane Society; she is so sweet and kind. She is a decent size dog but wouldn't hurt a fly. I love animals. I think if someone wants a dog, they should adopt at the Humane Society. People there are very helpful and the dogs are well-kept and taken care of. They also have a memorial of the dogs that have died there, which is really sad. I would hate to die in a place like that. It’s like a doggy jail.” 

Destiny, Kacey, Dorothay, Renee

Popular Tattoos at TLC

Mary L., Tiffany S., and Clarissa G.

                Regardless of the many centuries tattoos have been around, up until recently, they were considered very taboo in most countries. In this day in age, however, tattoos seem to more socially accpetable than they may have ever been in the past. Many teenagers at TLC have taken this in stride,  so as a means of recognizing our “tatted” students we are showcasing their very personal artistic expression on our blog.

                Tattoos originated as a means of expressing  tribal artwork, rites of passage, and rituals. But by interviewing some of our students, we have found that tattoos symbolize many different things today, and each person is impacted by them differently. Some people use tattoos as identifiers (whether it’s gangs, fraternities/sororities, military, or to recognize your significant other), as well for cosmetic reasons. We went around our school and took photos of students with tattoos. Whether they’re just to be flashy, have meaning, or are “just a random tat,” we wanted to see exactly what our student body was into.

So why are tattoos so popular in the society today? “I look at my body as a piece of artwork,” stated Josh M. and Casey C., who both have many tattoos and are interested in getting more. Motorcyle clubs have made them very popular due to their initiation rituals, as well as military personel. While it seems tattoos are popular because of rebellion, identity, beauty, and sex appeal, we have found most tattoos belong to people who have a story to tell.

For those of you considering getting your first tattoo (or your last) here are some things to consider:

Pros	Cons
·         Carries meaning, or is symbolic	·         It’s permanent and you may regret it later
·         Self-expression	·         Painful to get and remove
·         Stand out from others	·         Can be addictive
·         Can be shown off or private	·         Potentially harder to get a job
·         A well done tattoo is a thing of beauty	·         Could get infected
·         Sparks conversation	·         They can fade or migrate

How Clean Is Our Water? Part 2: A Water Fountains Analysis

 How Clean is Our Water?
Part 2: A Water Fountain Analysis

By: Clarissa

Another interesting thing students discovered during our water fountain discovery experiment was that certain water fountains tended to be colder than others, even when they were in close proximity. Curious, we decided to investigate more. The height of the water fountains didn't seem to matter, nor the location. Surprisingly, the brand seemed to make the most difference in temperature as well as turbidity.

On average, the Elkay water fountains were the coldest, followed by Oasis. The coldest fountain over all was Halsey Taylor, which is located by the gym. The warmest was the "Kelvinator," by the faculty bathroom.  The average temperature of the school's nine water fountains was 63.6 degrees Fahrenheit, which is pretty good. Oddly enough, the fountain on the girl's side of the gym was a chilly 65 degrees, while the boys side was a lukewarm 77 degrees. That's a strange difference in temperature for only being a few feet apart.

So, whats the best fountain to drink from? The tall fountain by the gym is the absolute coldest, but the Elkay fountain on the right hallway follows as a close second by only .2 degrees warmer. Maybe next time you're stopping by to get a drink, you'll consider all the variables that make your water warm or cold.

Earthquake

 Disaster Among Disasters

By Tiffany

In the early morning of March 11, 2011, the world had received news that Japan had suffered a massive 9.0 magnitude earthquake. However, the earthquake was not the disaster that caused the most destruction or the most deaths. It was the aftermath effect that did the most damage caused by the tsunami and nuclear invasion.

Japan is a country that is prepared for the devastation that an earthquake can cause; for example, one of Japan's many preparations are the buildings that are built to withstand earthquakes.

The occurrence of the second natural disaster is what caused the most havoc in japan. A huge tsunami wiped through South Eastern Japan and left death and demolition in its path. Another tsunami later hit Northern Japan as well. There were some cities in Japan that were totally annihilated. Unfortunately, in those areas people had less than a few minutes to evacuate. Many didn't make it.

The tsunami led to the nuclear disaster that had occurred in Japan. This nuclear disaster is the biggest since the dropping of the atomic bomb on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Several people in Tokyo, Japan had already been exposed to the radiation that had escaped from the nuclear power plants. Even now the Japanese government is still trying to contain the rest of the radiation from getting out into the population.

As of right now, the number of people who are dead or missing are up to around 13,000.

We send our prayers out to the Japanese people and hope that we can rebuild a better and strong Japan.We send our condolences to the families and friends who have lost loved ones. However, this tragedy has also brought the Japanese citizens and the world closer together. They are helping and comforting each other through these trying times. Let everyone in this world get together and be one,and send our love, prayers, and support to the people of Japan (CNN Wire Staff).

CNN Wire Staff, "Widespread Destruction from Japan Earthquake, Tsunamis."  CNN World Turner     Broading Casting Systems, 2011.  

http://articles.cnn.com/2011-03-11/world/japan.quake_1_hokkaido-tsunami-east-japan-railway?_s=PM:WORLD

Picture Links:

http://bimchat.files.wordpress.com/2011/03/japan-earthquake-march-11-2011.jpg?w=512

http://www.treehugger.com/japan-radiation-fukushima-nuclear-nukes-photo-001.jpg

How Clean is Our Water?

   

http://bigfatboyfriend.com/?p=679

 In Mrs. Galla's Chemistry class, students are busy determining levels of alkalinity, turbidity, and the pH of tap water vs. fountain water. Many students avoid drinking out of the faucet, and some even bring bottled water from home. But how different are they really?

    While the tap water was found to be safe to drink, it's far from desirable. Turbidity measures the clairity of water. Tap water had a turbidity of 5 JTUs, while the water from the water fountain had a turbidity of 0 JTUs - meaning the filtering system does its job well. Turbidity affects alkalinity (the amount of alcohol in water) and conductivity (how well the water conducts electricity). Water is more conductive if there are more particles in it, and there is liable to be more alcohol is water with particles in it. So, what exactly does this all mean?

    Prepare for an explanation with more scientific terms.  Turbidity increases the acidity of water and raises its temperature. Although the acidity of tap water was only 7.5, which is a safe level, the filtered water was only 7 - which is neutral. The filtered water was an icy 54.6 degrees Fahrenheit but tap water was a tepid 74.6 degrees Fahrenheit. By removing the particles through the filter, the water's temperature decreases, its less conductive, its free from nitrate and iron oxide, and the alkalinity drops 40 ppm. The only thing that remains is the chlorine, which measured 20 ppm in both samples. These levels are safe since chlorine is not dangerous unless it exceeds 50 ppm.

    You might be wondering if the water fountain water is the same as your pricey bottled water? According to mysafecleanwater.com - yes! Over 40% of bottled water comes from municipal water systems, meaning its about the same as the water out of your tap. The reality is, that as long as you are buying water bottled in the same state that you live in - the bottling company is exempt from FDA regulations on bottled water and can essentially just bottle your tap water.  However, most bottled water companies purify their water with reverse osmosis or ultraviolet disinfection processes rather than adding chlorine, which most water utility companies will do because it's cheaper.  Is that really worth the $1400 the average American spends on bottled water in a year? All scientific terms aside, the reality is that drinking the same amount in tap water would cost a mere forty-nine cents a year. Think about that.

Clarissa

Reader's Theater at Northside Library

Student Script

The grant funding came from the Dollar General Literacy Foundation. 

The partnership was between the YMCA of Central Kentucky, Lexington Public Library Northside Branch and Fayette County School The Learning Center.

 Student Input

When Northside Library came to The Learning Center we wrote scripts on different books we read.  We were placed in different literature circles, so we could  have group discussions on the books.  Additionally, we got snacks once a week for six weeks. I loved that part!  They  took us to their library and introduced to all types of technology.  The Apple Computers were like flat screen televisions!  It was a great experience; we got to work in the music and video recording rooms.  We also learned how to use editing programs like Garage Band.   Several of my classmates, including myself, explored the amine section; they had quite a selection of books and magazines.  It made me want to get a library membership.   I can't wait to go up there on my free time out of school and check out some books!

-Jordan-

MASQUERADE PROM

Official Update on Prom Next Year

-Tiffany and Clairissa

This year many of you have heard that  Student Government has planned to do a prom for TLC students. However, the timing and preparation needed was in short supply and it would have proved very difficult to pull through with. Regardless, an activity has been planned to involve students in an end-of-the-year activity. Student Government does intend to start early and plan a prom for next year. With more time it may prove easier to book a hotel, find a caterer, sell tickets, buy decorations, and set a theme - let alone ask other students to be involved.  We are very excited to see how this all pans out.

Prom at TLC

 Tiffany  and Clarissa 

 Today, members of TLC Publication sat in on a meeting of Student Government. The goal was to discuss potential prom ideas and fundraisers. Considering, this is the first prom ever at The Learning Center, it’s a really big deal! Student Government is embracing the idea of having a masquerade themed prom. They are currently in the midst of putting together a prom committee, and several fundraisers, such as a bake sale and a car wash.   Another potential money-raising idea is to make and sell masks before and at the prom. Overall, everyone involved is very excited at the proposition of helping TLC pull off their very first prom. 

Prom is an essential part of a high school student’s career. No one should have to leave high school without experiencing the often referenced “night to remember.” Contrary to most school proms, this event will not be exclusive to only juniors and seniors but will also integrate freshman and sophomore students. Middle school students, do not despair - as Ferris Bueller would say,”Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” Your time will come soon enough.  Approval is pending on whether or not students outside of The Learning Center would be able to attend. The attire will be formal, so anyone who does attend will be encouraged to wear typical prom dresses and suits.  Of course, your attire can have an added masquerade flair!  

 

Masquerades originated in 14th century Italian Renaissance at Venetian Carnivals. The masks became a way for the wealthy to broadcast themselves, and were often adorned with precious metals and valuable jewels. As the popularity increased, so did the masquerade ball’s reference in pop culture. In Edgar Allen Poe’s famous The Mask of the Red Death, the play takes place at a masquerade and ends in the inevitable Poe fashion. The popularity decreased, but the tradition has never disappeared. Now The Learning Center hopes to incorporate the age-old Venetian ideas into a  contemporary and original prom we’ll all want to attend.

Picture References (from top): http://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.buzzle.com%2Fimg%2FarticleImages%2F379901-39717-33.jpg&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHK1jT6ElaC4oK3INUYYpDQtdxsnw

http://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amasquerade.com%2Fimages%2Fproducts%2Fmasks%2Fcavalli_white.jpg&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNGrYjkoxKrqTks1DqHNIWEO8TK_Kg        

http://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nolaimports.com%2Fstore%2Fimages%2Fblack-silver-masquerade-mask.jpg&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEyckQFOG40k4PVpZLCmYriI_tkgQ

http://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fbuypartydress.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2010%2F08%2Fbeautiful-masquerade-mask.jpg&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFjcmogC7KPT0JAiI-uoX2e9pPyIA

Attached: MASQUERADE PROM!!

Google Docs makes it easy to create, store and share online documents, spreadsheets and presentations.

Revelations 9:11 and September 11th, 2001

By Alex F.

Most Americans today remember 9/11/01 as one of the saddest days in the USA's history. 

Some people were believed to see Satan's face in the smoke from the towers. Pretty creepy if you ask me...

Call me superstitious, but I looked into it. I found that Revelations 9:11 reads, "And they had a king over them,

[which is] the angel of the bottomless pit, whose name in the Hebrew tongue [is] Abaddon, but in the Greek tongue hath [his] name Apollyon.". There are two photos that clearly show two faces. One face is laughing, and the other is just a 3 horned sinister face:

 

Do you think this is legit?  What explanation could there for what is showing up in these photos?

Zodiac signs

 

13th Zodiac Sign

Tiffany

Are you a Gemini, Virgo, or any of the other twelve zodiac signs? The time has come to switch your sign because your zodiac sign has changed! The astronomers from the Minnesota Planetarium Society just recently discovered that because of the moon's gravitational pull on earth, the alignment of the stars was pushed by about a month. Instead of having twelve zodiac signs, we now have thirteen. The new zodiac sign is called Ophiuchus, also known as Serpens or Serpentarius. The 13th zodiac sign was added to the Sidereal astrology, these zodiac signs are the ones mainly used in eastern countries. Most people in the in the United States follow the western astrology (aka Tropical astrology).

Capricorn: Jan. 20-Feb. 16.
Aquarius: Feb. 16-March 11.
Pisces: March 11-April 18.
Aries: April 18-May 13.
Taurus: May 13-June 21.
Gemini: June 21-July 20.
Cancer: July 20-Aug. 10
Leo: Aug. 10-Sept. 16.
Virgo: Sept. 16-Oct. 30.
Libra: Oct. 30-Nov. 23.
Scorpio: Nov. 23-29.
Ophiuchus: Nov. 29-Dec. 17.
Sagittarius: Dec. 17-Jan. 20.