Feedback

We would love to read some of your feedback on our posts so far. Feel free to comment with your own opinions and ideas. Don't be shy! We will read all comments, and any inappropriate or rude comments will be removed.

The temperature is dropping!

The days are becoming shorter, and the nights are getting colder -- It is time to stock up on some awesome sweaters! Sweater weather? BETTER WEATHER!

Check out our Pun/Joke!

Look at the right ---> ✿◕ ‿ ◕✿

Let's talk about feelings*

We would really like to hear about how you feel about school so far. Well... actually we would like to hear your feelings on anything. Let us hear some suggestions and advices! Please do share, thank you!

HEY YOU THERE

Finding Nemo is coming out in 3D to a theater near you. What are your thoughts on this release?

Submit Photos to the blog!

We are really interested in seeing some cool images. It could be inside or outside of school. You can take the photo yourself (you will be credited) or you could pull some off the internet (you must credit the photo). Have fun! Email- Kristy for photo submission guidelines!

October 29, 2012

Practice vs. Game

That first game you play in, you don’t know what to expect. You’re teammates think they know
what’s going to happen, but they’re wrong. The first game, you think you’re prepared, but you never
are. Practice and a real game are different. You may be making every shot in practice, you may be doing
all the drills correctly, but in a game situation, doing a drill correctly won’t help you win a game. Players
and athletes can tell the difference as soon as they step onto the court.

I remember my first game; I had only attended a couple of practices. My teammates felt pretty
confident in winning. They kept saying, “How much should we win by? 20? 30?” And I kept quiet. I had
no intention of becoming part of this nonsense. It’s the first game, how do you know what’s going to
happen?

As the first game came and went, we lost by 28. All I could think of was, Who knew? My
teammates felt out-of-place when they changed out of their uniforms in the locker room. I had a pretty
decent game, but it had not felt like anything we did in practice, except maybe the running. The drills we
had practiced came into play here and there, but ultimately, it’s about chemistry, about your own game
when you play. So before you think you can win a game because you had good practices, think twice.
Don’t let talk get in the way of what you know that you can actually achieve.


Joseph P. (12)

October 28, 2012

Hurricane Sandy vs. NYC

As all of you already know, school is cancelled Monday due to Hurricane Sandy. Being students in NYC, we usually don't have to deal with things like hurricanes, earthquakes, and other natural disasters. However, they're warning us that this time might be different. So as we crack our jokes about how we're all going to party through the hurricane, remember to stay safe! There are mandatory evacuations in certain zones which is a sign that means Hurricane Sandy could really cause a mess. Remember to stay away from windows if you live in high rise apartments and make sure that your drains are clear of leaves for the ones who live in houses. As we enjoy a day off of school and sleep in on a Monday I hope everyone is well!
Also remember that public transportation is cut off! Most of you probably are already aware but remember to stay indoors. And as we get through another hurricane (hopefully safely), lets share our experiences and stories after the worst is over!


October 27, 2012

DIY: The Perfect Top Knot


 The Top Knot is an easy and simple hairstyle that anyone can do. From simply throwing your hair up to a messy bun, to making it neat and pristine, everyone has been following this trend, this fall. With school, we hardly have any time to create a cute hairstyle after picking an outfit, eating breakfast, and for some of us, doing our makeup. So our hair is often neglected. Recently, I purchased something called a Foam Hair Foundation, which is basically a foam piece shaped into a donut. You wrap your hair around it, to get a fuller bun. I went home, tried it out, and was pleased with the results, but then I realized I could make this product myself. Personally, I believe it is more satisfying when you make something yourself, that way you can make it exactly how you want it. I have really thin hair, and can never seem to get that really full bun look, so this is a fast and easy way for me to get the perfect bun. If you don’t want to have to spend money for this, there is a simple way to make one yourself. Here is how you do it:


Step 1
Find a pair of old, and hopefully clean socks.

Step 2
Using any amount of socks; combine all of them into one.


Step 3
At the bottom of the sock, cut a small opening.


Step 4
Roll the sock inside out, so that it looks like a small donut.


To put it in your hair, gather it up into a high ponytail, and slip it through the hole, and wrap your hair around the sock. For added protection, you can secure with bobby pins, (people with long hair usually don’t have to use them), and it would hold fine.


Comments from Baruch Students:
Kristal, a 9th grader says: “I like it, because my hair doesn’t get in the way.”
Kristina, a 9th grader says: “I feel comfortable.”
Hope you have fun with this easy DIY!
               
 -Zakiyyah Mandisa     

October 25, 2012

Morning Music

What's better than starting out your day with a favorite song as your alarm? :) 

Somehow, I feel that listening to a very 'bright' song in the morning as your alarm makes you feel better about your day. My latest song addiction would be Wanted by Alex Goot Ft. Julia Sheer. I just love the beginning because of that magical feeling from the xylophones. It makes waking up having only 6-7 hours of sleep much easier. It's soft and relaxing - something you would like. 
Another song, because of its introduction melody that makes me energized in the morning would be PCD by JLS. It starts off with strumming of a guitar, which is quiet enough that it won't make me cranky when I wake up - perfect. Fantasy by Danny Fernandes however, starts off with an electric piano. Sure enough, you'll be dancing out of your bed. :) 

For sleepy-heads out there and need a very LOUD song to make you wake up, Hey Juliet by LMNT starts off with loud beats. Heavy sleepers should crank their alarms to the highest volume. Something a bit more jazzy, for those dull mornings would be Animal by Neon Trees. A very up-beat song if you're ever too lazy to crawl out of bed. 

Next time! Instrumental music (with no lyrics). Stay tune! :D


- Joanne Yu, Music Entertainment












French Perfection

Words can not even begin to describe how much I enjoy eating macarons. They're usually very colorful which makes them even more appealing to me. They're sweet but not too sweet and the cream or jam center is to die for. It's a little hard to explain the texture but once you bite into one, the shell cracks and melts in your mouth. I believe they taste best chilled. Macarons originated from France which means that they're usually expensive. With a diameter of approximately 1.5 inches, one macaron usually ranges from $1.50 to $3.00 each. I love the colorful burger like treats so much that I prefer them over chocolate on Valentine's day. So if they're expensive but I love them so much, why not make my own? Well, macarons being French perfection isn't the only reason why they're pricey. Making the perfect macaron takes precision, time, and experience. You have to mix the batter a certain way, bake them at a certain temperate at different times, and the detail goes down to even the pan you bake them on. If you haven't tried these, I'm sure you've seen them all over t.v. I know that macarons have been featured on Gossip Girl several times, they're a favorite of Blair Waldorfs.
My favorite flavors? I enjoy them all but if I had to choose, they would be red velvet and raspberry. The sweet shell with the tangy center makes the perfect combo. Plus, it doesn't hurt that they look all fancy.
Macarons are definitely not one of those weird foreign delicacies. Just simply delicious and well worth the money.

October 24, 2012

ST&RS


Author: Takeuchi Ryousuke
Genre: School-Life, Adventure, Sci-Fi, Shounen

Summary: A message from extraterrestrial life forms was sent to Earth on August 10th 2019. The message was “let’s meet on mars on Jly 7th, 2035". ST&RS was created, an organization whose main goal is to meet the extraterrestrial life forms on Mars. ST&RS opened Space Academy, where they train students to be the best astronauts. Shirafune Maho the protagonist, with his first words beings Mars, has been very interested in space. His main goal is to go Mars but first he must get into Space Academy that has a 1% acceptance rate. There are 27 chapters so far and it is ongoing.  

- Eric Mei, Entertainment

Your Team


Image by Michelle Yan (2011)
               Every time I step onto the court, I feel like we have a chance to get the win. But after the 1st half, and we’re down by let’s say, 10, we all start to shoot angry words at each other. Words such as: “You have to keep moving” or “They suck, we’re just not getting stops.” And I have to admit. They don’t suck. If they do suck, what does that make you? Trash? I don’t see why people try to say that the other team can’t play. If they couldn't  why are they on the team? So before you open up your mouth and say something you know isn't true, then don’t talk at all. It’s not the other team, it’s you. The same thing can be said if you’re up by 10. The other team doesn't suck, you’re just playing better.
                Teammates know that in order for your team to win, you have to stay with each other and not shoot someone down. If the other team scored on a turnover, don’t put your head down and let your other teammate make you feel like poop. Talk back, “Why didn't you defend him on the fast-break ” It’s all about your team, and how you play with your team.

Joseph P. (12)

October 23, 2012

Girls’ Basketball Bottle Competition

Have you noticed large bags filled with plastic bottles and aluminum cans in your classrooms?
They don’t look very fitting for the classroom; however, it is for a very good cause. This year, the girls’ basketball team has lost its funding to rent the gym in Baruch College. The Baruch’s girls’ basketball team is very strong. My jaw dropped when I looked at the team’s record for the past few years. They ended each of their seasons on a very strong note. With this much potential, how could you possibly let it all go to waste? I really don’t understand how it is possible for their funding to be cut. Seriously, it’s ridiculous. I think that this bottle and can collecting competition was pretty clever. It’s a unique method to fundraise to get their funding back for the gym, and it’s also a great way to get the whole school involved, both recycling and making money. Who says that you have to be on a sports team to be a part of the school? Support your school’s girls’ basketball team and every time you finish a bottle, put it in your advisor’s big plastic bag. The girls’ basketball team will go around collecting your advisory’s bag of bottles every Monday. Remember, this is a competition. Bring on the competitiveness and show us what you are made of! Winners get a prize from the prize box! Good luck y’all!


Yei Ling Ma
(Sophomore)
Writer for Sports 

October 22, 2012

Dishonored Review (Spoilers)

*WARNING: Spoilers

The story line in Dishonored revolves around the main character named Corvo Attano who is the bodyguard of the empress Jessamine Kaldwin. The setting takes place in an industrial city called Dunwall which is modeled after London during the early 1900s. Dunwall is infected with a plague that spreads by rats and kills the poor. Corvo gets framed for the assassination of the empress and the kidnapping of the princess, Young Lady Emily. He becomes an assassin that works with the loyalist to overthrow the tyranny of the new government. As you advance through the story, Corvo gains more power that you can use to make assassinations easier. Later on, Corvo is betrayed by the loyalists but is able to escape death. He finds the assassins that killed the empress and eliminates them. Corvo then finds out the location of Lady Emily and rescues her. The ending of the game has different variations depending on how much chaos the player caused throughout the game. Chaos levels depend on the amount of violent actions and deaths are cause by the player. If chaos is low, Lady Emily becomes empress with Corvo by her side and Dunwall enters a golden age with the plague gone. If chaos is high, Emily still becomes the empress with Corvo by her side but Dunwall remains in turmoil and the plague still remains. If Corvo doesn’t save Emily, Dunwall falls and Corvo flees the empire by ship. Overall, the game was fun to play with the different styles players could adapt to complete the objectives. The story wasn't that great but it is a game that I would play multiple times. I would rate this game an 8.5/10.

- Alan Chen, Entertainment - Video Games

z100


So I've been listening to z100 for the past few days and I find it better than going on YouTube to search for a song one by one. It's my favorite radio station because they play the most popular songs and I like all the songs they play. Some people think it's mainstream, but who cares. There are other radio stations that I like too, like 103.5 KTU, I go there when z100 has too many commercials and when they talk about stuff I don't care about. Lately, z100 has been talking a lot about z100's Jingleball. The tickets are sold out though. I also noticed that they replay a lot of the interviews and sometimes they play one thing more than once. Have they always been doing that? Am I the only one that listens to the radio? Haha.
Anyways, I really like the song "Diamonds" by Rihanna. It's catchy and it's just one of those songs that I can listen to forever. Rihanna has such a nice voice too. The song goes perfectly with her voice. I also LOVEEEEEE Ed Sheeran. I love all his songs. They're all so amazing and I could listen to his songs forever. Just kidding, I need Rihanna and Taylor Swift too. Speaking of Taylor Swift, her new album just came out recently and her songs are a hit already. Especially the song "We are Never Ever Getting Back Together". I'm sure most of you guys know it. It's a pretty popular song nowadays although it's been a while since it was on YouTube. So, tell me about your favorite artists and songs, I would love to know.

- Lin Yang, Entertainment

Paranormal Activity 4: Movie Review


The horror film franchise, Paranormal Activity, released its fourth film last week.  This film tells of what happened after the events of the first and second movie.  Unlike other film franchises, this franchise shows the beginning of the story in the third movie and works its way backwards.  Together, they all inform the audience on the origins of the ghost that has been haunting one family.  Now in this film the ghost returns, but it haunts a next door neighbor as well.
            
The movie was not scary at all.  It only scares people if they get frightened by loud noises and/or images that pop out suddenly during the movie.  This film only scares the audience for a split second and then it is over.  Overall, the plot of the story was pretty interesting.  I find it more of an interesting movie to watch and wonder about than a movie that is watched to be scared out of your mind.  It may be frightening to some people, but others not so much.  However, it is a good movie to watch during the Halloween season with your friends or family.  If you enjoy horror movies or the previous Paranormal Activity movies, you should go watch this movie!

 - Giselle Barkley, Video Entertainment

Brain Buster of the Week!

Answer to Previous Question:

1. Hoover does not belong as it's the only one which is not a car manufacturer. Dodge does not belong as it's the only one which is not the last name of a President of USA.

2. Bishop does not belong as it's the only one which is not a class of nobility. Earl does not belong as it's the only one which is not a Chess piece.

3. Dead does not belong as it's the only one which is not a color. Green does not belong as it's the only one which is not the name of a sea.


This Week's Teaser:
A Brit, A Swede, A Dane...

There are 5 houses in 5 different colours. In each house lives a person of a different nationality. The 5 owners drink a certain type of beverage, smoke a certain brand of cigar, and keep a certain pet. Using the clues below can you determine who owns the fish?
The Brit lives in a red house.
The Swede keeps dogs as pets.
The Dane drinks tea.
The green house is on the immediate left of the white house.
The green house owner drinks coffee.
The person who smokes Pall Mall rears birds.
The owner of the yellow house smokes Dunhill.
The man living in the house right in the middle drinks milk.
The Norwegian lives in the first house.
The man who smokes Blend lives next door to the one who keeps cats.
The man who keeps horses lives next door to the man who smokes Dunhill.
The owner who smokes Blue Master drinks chocolate.
The German smokes Prince.
The Norwegian lives next to the blue house.
The man who smokes Blend has a neighbour who drinks water.
ENJOY!

~ Clarissa M

Movie Review: The Avengers

Hi everyone,

I'm back with an actual review! :D No one sent in any suggestions, so I'm going to review a movie I watched over the summer. :)

*SPOILER ALERTS BELOW~*

Here's MY summary of what happened in The Avengers movie. (It's been a while, so my summary may not be accurate.) So this will pretty much be about the way I saw the movie. Bear with me guys, my summaries are always weird. :)

Summary:At the start of the movie, I see someone with a lot weird armor and this terrible headdress (this is Loki), talking to this creepy monster thing (I think it is called "the Other"), who gives Loki the task of retrieving the Tesseract in return for reign over the Earth. The Tesseract is this super powerful energy source. Then the scene changes, and I see this eye patch guy (apparently his name is Nick Fury, director of S.H.I.E.L.D., an organization), along with this woman (Maria Hill), a man (Phil Coulson), some old guy who is like a researcher or something, and this creepy guy in the like upper corner of the room (I found out he was Clint Barton, aka Hawkeye...). They are currently conducting some experiment on the Tesseract, which is quite shiny and blue. Then, all of a sudden, the Tesseract gets TOO shiny, and (dun dun dun) Loki appears from this portal thing. Loki is wielding this staff that creams everybody in the room. With the staff, he pokes Barton and the old researcher guy, and puts this mind control over them. They leave with Loki, who takes the Tesseract along with him.

At this point, Nick Fury is like, "NO, THIS IS NOT HAPPENING!", and he escapes the place, which is now crumbling (for a reason I do not remember) with Maria. They chase after Loki for a while, but fail to get ahold of him. Eventually, Nick issues an order for the Avengers to assemble in response to Loki.

I think the scene then changes again to this woman (Natasha Romanoff, aka Black Widow) who is currently strapped to this chair. Some creepy mobster looking people are apparently threatening her for some information. She gets a call from someone (I forgot who), telling her to do something (probably to find the Hulk I think). She then beats up the mobsters in this awesome fighting scene, while still strapped to the chair. Later on, she finds Dr. Bruce Banner (aka the Hulk), who has been hiding for a while. After some persuading, Banner agrees to come along. Coulson goes to visit Tony Stark (aka Iron Man) and asks him to find the Tesseract, and Nick Fury asks Steve Rogers (aka Captain America) to help retrieve the Tesseract as well.

At some point, Thor comes along (describing how would make this TL;DR summary even longer), and with the team assembled, they have to put aside their difference and work together to retrieve the Tesseract.

What I liked about it:This movie was hilarious (to me). I thought each Avenger was unique and each contributed to the humor of the movie.

Clint Barton (Hawkeye): This guy was pretty much a bad guy throughout the movie. In my opinion, he didn't really do much as an Avenger as he only became a good guy again at the end of the movie.

Natasha Romanoff (Black Widow): This woman kicks butt. I don't exactly remember much about her (it's been months since I saw the movie), but what I do remember is that she was always running away from stuff. Fortunately, the job of saving the world was pretty much handed to her.

Bruce Banner (The Hulk): He worked diligently to find the Teaseract. It was funny when he became the Hulk on the ship (everyone was pretty much on this flying ship for most of the movie) and destroyed everything. There was this one scene where he jumped onto this aircraft, and they spiraled towards the ground. Banner then woke up in this random place (I think a barn) and he was naked. After a really long time (so long, that everyone had already gotten off the ship), he came back on this old motorcycle.

Tony Stark (Iron Man): Okay, this guy is hilarious. I don't remember if he was considered part of the actual Avengers because I think he was just needed to help Bruce Banner track the Tessseract, but he just joined them anyways, trying to command the team as the leader. He also suggested for everyone to eat at this shawarma restaurant at the end of the movie.

Steve Rogers (Captain America): He's not as funny as the other characters because he's very serious and earnest. He's at odds with Iron Man, as they both want to be leaders.

Thor: I remember at one point in the movie, when the Avengers were arguing with each other, he laughed at them and remarked, "You people are so petty and tiny." That was easily my most favorite quote in the movie.

What I didn't like about it:Nothing. I thought this movie was hilarious and awesome.

Overall:Besides being really funny, this movie did have its really sad moments, like when one of the characters was killed, and the death was used to motivate the Avengers to work together. It also had its fair share of action as well (which is obvious, since it was an action movie). Anyways, in my opinion, this is a must watch movie. :)


- Melissa He, 12th Grade - Entertainment Editor

Halloween Make Up Tutorials!

Hello Sweets,

Halloween is coming up! Have you decided on what you'll be dressing up as?! If not, here are some suggestions: Pirate, Doctor, Disney Princess, Vampire...

There is an abundance of awesome Youtube tutorials on Halloween make up, some may be too extreme to wear to school but none the less, very interesting to watch. Here are some of my recommendations of Youtubers to check out:

Username: Dope2111
Name: Promise Phan
Specialities: Does a lot of halloween tutorials, and celebrity transformations (male and female), and casual make up.
Alice In Wonderland - By Promise Phan
Bellatrix Lestrange (Harry Potter) By Promise Phan
Audrey Hepburn (Breakfast at Tiffany's) - By Promise Phan
Johnny Depp Transformation  By Promise Phan


Username: Petrilude
Specialties: Special effects make up.
Name: Joshua P.
Eye Spy By Joshua P.
Rotting Decay: Zombies By Joshua P.
Who's Your Da... Mummy? By Joshua P.

Username: Pixiwoo
Names: Sam and Nic
Specialties: Make up tutorials, Celebrity transformations, and Halloween Make up.
Catwoman 



Frankenstein 


There are many more- Just be sure to look!
-Kristy Mei (12)

Tell us what you want to be for Halloween in the comments below!


Taken 2 Movie Review

 This weekend, I watched the sequel to Taken. Taken 2 is basically the same movie as the original one, but then again it is also different. Well, in the first movie, the Albanian gangsters kidnap the daughter when she takes a trip to Paris with her friend. The gangsters specialize in human trafficking and plan to transport the girls to a prostitution ring and her dad only has 4 days to find them otherwise they will be gone. Being that he was a retired CIA agent, he was able to find his daughter and friend and kill their kidnappers. Now in the second movie, Bryan, the father,decides to have his ex-wife and his daughter take a trip to Istanbul, Turkey with him. All is good until he is driving around in a car with his ex-wife and he realizes that they are being followed, they immediately realize what is going on and he quickly comes up with a plan. But unfortunately, it doesn’t work out and he and his wife are both taken. The people that are taking them are the Albanian gangsters again but the reason they are striking again is because the leader’s son was shot by Bryan because he kidnapped his daughter so he wants to take revenge by killing him. He plans to painfully kill Bryan and torture him by slowly killing his ex-wife in front of him. Luckily, he gets in contact with his daughter who insists on rescuing them, so by following his instructions she is able to come rescue them. Then Bryan shoots all of the gangsters. Then they go back home like nothing ever happened. So basically it had the same plot: they go on a trip, two of them get taken and someone comes heroically and rescues them. I think we all know how Taken 3 is going to turn out now. I thought it was a good movie, but it could have been more interesting, like there should have been some twists or something. Overall, I enjoyed it and would recommend watching it.
- Eleftheria Kalaitzis, Entertainment

October 21, 2012

Yogurt City: Smile again, friend

I believe people should eat whether they have an appetite, because the health of their bodies holds priority before all. Reality can really strike a person at the core, ruining his/her mood and dragging down his/her appetite. Everyday might not flow well and accordingly, for there will always be disappointment and sadness accompanying happiness and success. A student might fail at achieving his/her ideal score on a test, or a student might feel down after getting scold by a school faculty or belittled by a classmate. Nonetheless, people must feed their stomachs, even if it means eating just a little.   With that said, I would like to recommend Yogurt City. Not as fun and amusing as Disneyland, Yogurt City, or Dessert City, is delicious though. A dessert lover can self-serve and pick his/her favorite yogurt and toppings, ranging from strawberry flavor, chocolate flavor, kiwi, gummy bears, sprinkles, etc. The price is determined by the weight, which is 49 cents a pound. Located in the vicinity of Baruch College Campus High School is a Yogurt City; the address is 61 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10002. Desserts, unlike other food, are always soothing to consume, and the coldness of yogurt can numb a person’s emotions, pulling his/her negative feelings away and igniting a smile. Living a strong life means being able to smile, so eat joyfully and smile again! As a treat, I would gladly join in to feast and smile together, friend.  

- Jia Wei Ong





Hipsters & What Nots

Hey guys, I got some more music. This time, they fall into a similar category: indie pop, indie rock, and tunes like that. "Now Is The Start" by A Fine Frenzy is something I like. It's a cheerful song, it makes you want to dance on the beach or in a sunny field of grass. Yeah, it gives you that kind of feeling. So if you're looking for a happy song that's also catchy, listen to this. "Sovereign Light Cafe" by Keane is also a really good song and one of my personal favorites. It has that nice melody that you would listen to in a cafe. "Mountain Sound" by Of Monsters and Men is also one that really like. It's a catchy and joyful song. Whenever it comes up on my iPod, I listen to it happily. "Called Out In The Dark" by Snow Patrol. It's catchy and a pretty good song. I mean it's different from their hit "Chasing Cars" but this song is not bad nonetheless. And finally "Ho Hey" by the Lumineers. This, like the other songs here, is catchy and nice to listen to it. I find myself singing this song sometimes cause it's catchy and I like it.

- Sharon Lee

All About Autumn

Autumn is officially here. The leaves are turning bright red and yellow just to fall onto the cold, hard cement (funny how all the trees in the photo are still green, eh?) And there's people like me who would go out of their way to step on a crunchy leaf. As the weather gettings colder, what's your favorite thing to do? I like taking short walks to the markets around my neighborhood before winter comes along. It's a different feeling walking in Brooklyn because you're away from the craziness of the city.
Autumn is also a great time to bust out those cozy sweaters without hiding them under those big coats. The weather is perfect for that cozy, effortless, & relaxed feel. Whats even better? You don't need to spend a lot of money in order to achieve this.
Gray over sized sweater - H&M ($17.00)
Burgundy leggings - Forever21 ($5.00)
Black wedge booties - Forever 21 ($20.00)
Muted blush bag - Forever 21 ($27.00?)

With the colder weather also brings the warm drinks. No more fraps from Starbucks or oh so sweet smoothies from Jamba Juice. Instead, I've been loving green tea with lemon and honey. It's a relatively healthy and super soothing. If you're not into tea then a classic hot chocolate is wonderful as well.

Yeah I know. This post was a bit all over the place. But I just really love Autumn! So what are your thoughts about the current season? Do you love the colder weather or the opportunity to swallow yourself up in knit scarves and over sized sweaters? Or do you just love summer because thats when school's out?

Legend of Edda

After closing the game in 2011 for improvement, The Legend of Edda is finally going to be released again in the U.S. The closed beta is still to be announced but you could still sign up. The game is a MMORPG game with chibi characters. There are only 6 classes in this game. It's the basic in all of games where the classes are warrior, swordmaster, archer, assassin, cleric, and wizard. Whenever you level up, your stats are auto distributed. It has its pros and cons. The game is pretty easy and has a fun PvP system. It's Titan vs the Olympians. The PvP match is about 30 mins long and have different section. Theres G1, G2, G3, etc. The G means grade so every 20 levels you advance to the next grade by doing the advancement quest. During the PvP, you are given a god skills. Each class god skill is different. It can only be used in the PvP. This game also has a pet system which you don't have to buy using money. The great thing about this game is the dungeon because you can finish a dungeon within 10 mins, your time determines your prize. The longer you take to finish a dungeon, the prize will start to have less value. The game has a PK zone  after the first town. You can play in a PvE world but you won't get much drops and collect able resources. The resources are used to make pots and weapons like in any other MMORPG games. The game is really easy to level up but trying to get a +7 or higher gear is almost impossible. The more friends you have in the game, the easier your life will be since you can make 1mil a day from dungeons. Wait for the release date and try the game at gamescampus.com

October 18, 2012

October Birchbox 2012


I finally received my Birchbox in the mail today. For those of you who don’t know what Birchbox is, it’s a monthly subscription service where you pay $10 a month for 4-5 beauty samples. Sometimes you can get a full-sized product in the box, but mostly it’s a small sample. But it’s all worth it in the end, and since you never know what’s in your box until it arrives in the mail, it’s a great surprise too. The products I received this month were:
1.       Malin + Goetz
-Bergamot Body Wash
-Grapefruit Face Cleanser
       2. Ouidad Hydrafusion Intense Curl Cream
      3. Sprout Lip Balm Flights
      4. Supergoop! City Sunscreen Serum
      5. Luna Bar – Lemon Zest

…and all for a grand total of $10, and in my opinion, that’s not bad at all. Most of the prices for some of the full sized products are expensive, so getting it for only ten is a good deal. There were two full sized products, the Luna bar and the Sprout Lip Balm in my October box. Everything else is a onetime use sample. Usually you would get four products, but instead I got six, which is also a plus of the surprise element. Sometimes there is an extra bonus in the box, something everyone would want. And when they come, your day just gets a little bit better. Recently Birchbox starting to add food products into the boxes and in September I received tea.  Personally I’m not a fan of getting food items because the reason I joined was to try new beauty products. However, this is also a way to get items that are organic, healthy, and actually taste good. This month was a special one Birchbox teamed up with a lifestyle blog called Goop and had two options, the regular box and the special Goop one. I chose the special one, so this is the products in the Goop box, not the regular October Birchbox.  I’m pretty happy with my box this month, and with this being my second one I’m excited to see what else I will get in the upcoming months. This is something anyone can join if they want to try new products, (there is also an option for males called Birchbox Man). If you’re interested in joining Birchbox, log on to birchbox.com and create an account.

- Zakiyyah Mandisa 

DEALS !!!

Free Sample of Garnier Moisturizer here: http://www.startsampling.com/sm/mrmoisture/

Free throat sensation samples here: http://www.cepacol.com/free_sample_form.php
I'm guessing they help you if you feel like your throat is too hot, get the cooling sensation. If it's too cold, get the warming sensation. Or if it's too dry, get the Hydra sensation... It's only my first time applying for this brand, let's hope we get what we want...

www.Threadless.com is a teeshirt site, they're having a sale on shirts $9.99! They have cute designed, for both men and women! I got a few tee-shirts from there last year! Their fabric is of good quality. JUST CHECK IT OUT!

Get a coupon from Facebook and you can redeem your FREE L'OCCITANE EN PROVENCE LOTION here: https://www.facebook.com/loccitane.usa/app_203351739677351

You girls can possibly win a 2pack Softlips branded halloween themed lip balm! here: http://twoclassychics.com/2012/10/new-spooktacular-marshmallow-ghost-lip-balms-by-softlips-review-giveaway/

Everyday, Bic on facebook is having a giveaway related to its color of the day. here: https://apps.facebook.com/thirtysixdaysofcolor/

I'm not sure if everyone knows, but if you sign up for a Godiva Chocolatier rewards card, you are able to get a free piece of chocolate from any Godiva Boutique each month. I've had my rewards card since 2007, and has been getting chocolates ever since! 

- Linda Huang 

October 17, 2012

Stupid people or Genius Phones?


Hello fellow Baruchians, it’s me again with another strange picture. I actually took this picture awhile back but it always makes me laugh when I look at it. It is a good memory and it reminds me that technology is amazing and is very dual in its artificial nature. Technology, such as smartphones, can be used to do stupid things yet they can also be used to do pretty ground-breaking things. Smartphones such as iPhones are groundbreaking pieces of technology themselves.Technology can also connect large groups of people or friends around the world yet it can also be a form of separation to those who don’t have it. Depending on the person, technology is a tool that can be used to help, to enlighten, to make easier, to hurt, to drag down etc.
Remember, it is not the technology that is evil but the person behind it. Nuclear energy isn't evil, some people just use it for evil things. Wow, I’m going off on a tangent.This is all very deep stuff for this picture.
If there is one thing you will derive from this it should be Technology is very important and that you should buy Esther Turay an iPhone 5. Thank you in advance!"


- Esther Turay, Entertainment - Photography

Breaking Dawn Part 2

Just a few more weeks Twilight fans :D, Until the end of an exciting series that will probably be a thriller such as the rest. I personally like this series, but I know that there are people out there that don’t, but if you never really tried to read the books or watch the movies, I think you should give it a chance. Life is full of unexpecting surprises you know? Well, back to the topic: Breaking Dawn Part two, this movie is about Bella’s transformation from a human in the other movies into a vampire and also a mother now to her beautiful daughter, Renesmee. As the last movie ended with the shocker that Jacob imprinted on Renesmee, which means that he will do anything for her, be anything for her that she will ever need. But the question is what will Bella think about this when she finds out… Also, not trying to spoil the plot from the book, but when Bella has transformed she has a special gift of her own that will lead to amazing sitting on the edge your seat moments in the movie. So, giving this a try when it comes out and I can’t wait to see it once it’s finally out on November 16.



-Amy Cao, Entertainment

Sneak Peek - Piano Opening Playlist

Hey Rnb+Pop Baruchians! Recently I noticed that majority of my songs start out with a piano melody in the beginning. Crazy! I never knew I loved piano starters until now. So I'm going to share my playlist with you. :) 

Warning*** Majority of the songs are love songs.

First up... I Still Love You, sung by: Vedo The Singer.  [Description: It's very powerful with a steady piano playing in the background. Beautiful! The song has its own climax in the middle which makes it amazing to listen to.] 

#2: Cinderella, by: Steven Curtis Chapman. [Description: A wedding-like song. When I think about it, it's a story where Cinderella is about to get married, and the singer is in love with her.] Another similar song would be famous Korean singer Tae Yang: Wedding Dress

#3: Forever in My Life, by: JoJo. [Description: Expressing feelings song.] 

#4: Best Friend, by: Jason Chen [Description: A clean piano opening. A cliche story about falling in love with a friend you grew up with.] :) 

#5: Without Youby: David Guetta ** Cover by Glee [Description: A deep, emotional song, about not having your partner by your side.] 

Stay tune for morning songs. :)

- Joanne Yu, Entertainment-Music

Soccer (Girls and Boys)


Soccer season is coming to an end. The boys’ soccer team just had their last game on the 15th of October and the girls’ soccer team’s last game is on the 22nd of October. With a 5-5 record right now, we are in a crunch time to see if the girls team would make it to the play offs once again.
Starting off with only exactly 11 players to now 19, we improved a lot as a team. Despite the time and effort that we have to put into the sport, it always pays off at the end. We lose as a team and we win as a team. As long as we tried our hardest and pushed ourselves up and beyond. 
There are times when we would hate going to practices, simply because we want to hang out with our friends. But there are other times when something funny would happen when we go to practice and make it enjoyable.
Being on sports team takes a lot of commitment and a lot of time but if you love the sport go for it. Being on two teams, both the girls’ soccer team and the girls’ basketball team, it is a lot of work but I love the rush during games and the fans cheering for us; it is what keeps me going. The excitement of that is the best. That is why it is so great to be on a sports team, or any team. You would build bonds with your teammates, make fun of each other, and even if something embarrassing happens, they would laugh it off or at each other. Go for it; don’t let anything hold you back from playing a sport you love.

Kathy Chiam
(Senior)
Writer for Sports 

October 16, 2012

Blue Devils Newsletter - Issue 3



Adapted from the original Newsletter by Alexiandria Cintron and Erick Criollo
October, 2012




View original by downloading newsletter
Download Here



SOS

What do you do when you don’t feel like doing something? Practicing, homework, working out, or cleaning your room are not always at the top of your list. Even if they are, the question that needs examination is how do we motivate ourselves to accomplish the tasks in our lives? Responsibilities can be overwhelming and can sometimes stifle our productivity and creativity. By taking a disciplined approach, you can maximize your chances for accomplishing your goals. Chart and prioritize what you need to do. Then attack each item with your best effort. Continue to move down the list until you have finished. This is not a perfect science and will require you to make individualized adjustments. With some focus and effort, you should begin to equate work with achievement. This habit will take you wherever you want to go. Remember, everything worthwhile in

Yap Serving
 
life is not easy. Motivation is something we are all searching for. Find your mojo and get going. “In a dark time the eye begins to see”. 



Great Strength and Intensity

            Electricity was surging through the air. The girls showed preparation and focus during their pre-game practice session against SOF. Screams of "I got it!" rang throughout the gym. The two teams had practiced together last weekend at Columbus Park, testing each others' strengths and exposing each others weaknesses. During the practice game, Baruch lost five to twenty-five. It was a humiliating loss for the team. They realized how much more they needed to improve before facing off again. The real game played on Friday was a great improvement. The entire team came ready and confident. The first set was 15 to 25
in favor of SOF.  The second set yielded the same result. Although it was not the result the girls were looking for, it was a big improvement from the practice at Columbus Park, the team proved their determination and hard work paid off. GREAT JOB GIRLS :) <3

- Monica Chin

Lady Blue Devil’s Come Short

            The girls’ soccer team faced off against Eleanor Roosevelt on Thurs, Oct 4th. Unfortunately, our Baruch girls came up short. I am no expert at soccer; I don’t even play but there were several sparking moments where intensity and a ‘will to win’ overcame skill. With a hint of aggressive play that could not be denied, senior captain, Patricia Curran (13) scored two goals. A penalty kick after being pulled down in the box and in the second half an astounding kick from distance got past the ELRO keeper. The team’s chemistry and dedication are beginning to improve. If the players continue to focus on improvement, they will have a strong chance of victory when they face off against School of the Future Thurs, Oct 11th.

- James Davis

Bring ON the Cheer

            The Cheerleading Squad is returning for its second full season at BCCHS. In its debut last year, the girls did a fabulous job (under the tutelage of coaches Ms. Kwan and Ms. Simon) with many of them returning and eager to get started. Tryout-practice was held last week where the students learned the cheer, toe touches, and herkies. The session was filmed to be used as a tutorial. The video was sent to those interested in joining. They were given four days to practice on their own.  Students came back to demonstrate their skills. They were rated on the following: enthusiasm, knowledge of the cheer, ability to do the cheer, the jumps, stiffness and how in sync they were with their group.
            Captains Ashley Hall and Allison Relyea are excited about the team. Their goals for this year are to bring spirit to the school, encourage people to attend school activities and cheer at multiple sporting events. This team has already demonstrated their passion and commitment and I am sure this team will become a tradition at Baruch.

Red Cross at Baruch High School  
           
            Red Cross is attending the Breast Cancer Walk on October 21st, 2012! Many of you have already signed up to participate in this amazing event. If anyone still wants to join us, please email Joanne Yu at yu.joanne@bcchsnyc.net for more information.
            The club fair will be held on Tuesday, October 16th. This is a fantastic opportunity for you to see all that Baruch has to offer. If you want to be a part of the Red Cross Club, come to the fair and list your name. The Red Cross Club organizes events like the upcoming Breast Cancer walk, AIDS walk, and Blood drives. We also host competitions like the Backpack competition. We will be meeting every Tuesday after school, in Ms. Poole's room on the 3rd floor. Thank You! 
           

Boys looking for a great season

            Put on your shorts and tighten up your sneakers because Basketball season is just around the corner! Varsity and junior Varsity basketball tryouts are on the 29th of this month. (October 29) We’re looking for some talent and commitment. Over the past few years, the varsity basketball team has been unsuccessful in making the playoffs, but with trust and chemistry, we strongly believe that will change this season. Basketball is more than just winning. It’s about meeting new people and creating friendships that will last a life time. It’s about being part of a family. We even have an annual tradition of going out to KATZ’s deli. The pastrami is amazing! Remember the date and come tryout. If you don’t make the varsity team, there’s always room on the junior varsity for underclassmen. GOOD LUCK! GO BLUE DEVILS!

-    Peter Lok

Girls Varsity Basketball Pre-Season

            The girl’s varsity team will begin their season on October 29th. With six returning girls from last year, and hopefully many newcomers, this year will be an exciting season. Returning Coach Jessenia Morrero and new co-coach Alexandria Statmatiades will work hard to make this a great year with intense practices for the first month of the season. Their first three games will be home games with their first game on November 26th against Washington Irving. I hope to see many people there to cheer on the girls. Also don’t forget to support the basketball team by bringing in as many empty bottles and cans to your advisories for the Bottle Competition.

- Mikaela Bordonaro


A New Perspective on a Winning Team

            It was an entirely new experience to sit on the bench and watch my girls play. I have never clapped and cheered so much in my life. My hands were as red as the bleachers we were sitting on in Murry Bergtraum High School’s gym.
On Friday, October 5th, the girls won their first game of the season against Graphic Communication Arts. Even after losing the first set, the girls managed to pick up their confidence and intensity. It was very nerve wracking for some, for it was a close game and victory could not have been determined until halfway through the third set. It was shocking to see so many Baruch students on the other side of the gym; I am so grateful for their attendance, because they were not only spectators, but they were supporters of their team. Sitting out on the side with my teammates made me realize how important it was to cheer for the ones playing on court. It’s a sign of encouragement, approval, and strength. You don’t know how far encouragement can take you. Cheer on The Blue Devils!

-Yei Ling Ma 

Boys on two Game Win Streak
            The boys are on a roll. They picked up their third win against A.P. Randolph High School 3-2. Randolph went up early 2-1, but in the closing minutes Baruch’s star mid fielder Erick Criollo put the team on his back and scored the equalizer along with the game winner.
            The next day Baruch faced a strong Environmental Studies team. Baruch struck early with two goals by Criollo, and a stunning strike from star junior Kyle Barall. In the second half Baruch kept their intensity up, and put three more goals in the back of the net. Their final game will be played on October 15th at FDR Park. Come out and support.
-     Daniel Dornbaum
From Your President

            This year’s student government will meet for the first time next week. We are excited for theupcoming year, and are expecting it to be productive. Two representatives have been selected from each advisory. They will be notified of their acceptance over the weekend. Keep in mind that on the 16th of October a club fair will take place in the school cafeteria. For all freshmen who are unsure of what to join, this is a great place to learn about everything this school offers. All club heads should e-mail me over the weekend if you would like a booth at the fair.

- Daniel Dornbaum
Young Runners are Here
In the spring of 2012 I had the opportunity and pleasure to work along side Physical Education Teacher, Mr. Howard Soskind. When I knew I had to juggle a job as a personal trainer and elite runner with graduate school and student teaching, I was looking for a school in New York City where I would have the best experience. Mr. Soskind was a cooperating teacher that went above and beyond what I expected.  He taught me the "In's and Out's" and the "Behind the scenes" of what teaching Physical Education can be like in New York City.  As an elite runner and former professional soccer player, I naturally asked if Baruch College Campus High School had either of these teams.  Having grown up on Long Island, I assumed of course they did. 
            When I found out BCCHS did not have a track and field team in a city that is full of runners, I was surprised.  I had to do something about it.  I used my contacts at NYRR club to set up a meeting to start the ball rolling. For the spring 2012, it would be too late to implement NYRR's program, but I assured Mr. Soskind I would always remain in touch.  Here it is in the fall of 2012 and we are making way in the process. BCCHS has been accepted into NYRR's Young Runners program that I will coach along side Ms. Wegener. We are looking for any runners, beginners to experienced, and those who want to be part of this extracurricular program.  The program will be run like any other BCCHS sports team with many benefits. Students will be entered into amazing NYRR races and receive gear and prizes.  There is no limit to how many people can be on the team, but we must field at least 15.  Please come out and join the team. Each one of you will make this program happen. See you on the track!
- Jane Vongvorachoti 

Lady Blue Devils’ Last Stretch

            The Girls soccer team faced against Environmental Science on September 28. After beating them 4-2 in their first meeting, the girls went in with confidence. Coming off a 12 – 0 loss against Lab Museum, the girls were in search of a needed win to keep their playoff hopes alive. Pre-game was a sight to see. The field was wet with puddles everywhere and referees trying to sweep them away with a broom.

            The team was ready to play with Ester Turray playing goalie for her first game after the starting goalie Mikaela Bordonaro went down with an injury in an earlier contest against School of the Future. The first half started out close for both teams. Environmental scored their first goal when a rebound got past goalie Esther Turray. They would eventually score 4 more goals before sophomore, Maeve Cusack put home Baruch’s only goal. The final score was 5-1. The girls know that they will have to bring their “A” game for the rematch which will have playoff implications. Don’t forget to come out and support the girls for their last few games. Check Psal.org for game dates.

- Mikaela Bordonaro







Upcoming Events

Girls Soccer Games – Oct. 16, 18, 22

Boys Soccer -             Oct. 15

Volleyball – Oct. 15, 17, 23, 24

Club Fair – Oct. 16

Breast Cancer Walk – Oct. 21

Basketball Tryouts – Oct. 29

Wrestling Season – Nov. 1

Blood Drive – Dec. 19