The MaST Tribune
December 2019 Edition
---------------------------Overview--------------------------
Pearl Harbor
What do the Holidays Mean to You?
Top Song Picks
Kay's Favorites You Can Add to Your Christmas List
Reinventing Hot Chocolate
Perspective During the Holidays
We Need to Talk About COPPA
Christmas Movie Reviews
Events of the Month
JRA Food Drive
Sunday, Dec 15, 2019, 10:00 AM
Jewish Relief Agency Warehouse, Dutton Road, Philadelphia, PA, USA
Girls Soccer Team Fundraiser
Thursday, Dec 19, 2019, 05:00 PM
Chickie's & Pete's, Roosevelt Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, USA
Winter Break!
Monday, Dec 23, 2019, 06:00 AM
MaST Community Charter School, Byberry Road, Philadelphia, PA, USA
Remembering Pearl Harbor - By Bridget McLaughlin
At this time of year, many of us are thinking about the holidays and fun upcoming activities we will be going to; however, during this festive time, it’s important to remember and pay respect to an important day in America’s history: December 7, 1941. On this day 78 years ago, America was attacked by Japan in a surprise bombing on Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. The men who fought saw atrocities that we could never even fathom. When those who survived came home from the war, they experienced what we would now diagnose as PTSD, yet there was no treatment at the time for this type of mental trauma. These men went on to live full lives, leaving resentment in the past as they continue to look towards the future.
They are heroes in the truest sense of the word.
*The video below was filmed three years ago to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the attack. There are a few graphic descriptions and images of this horrific day.
What Do the Holidays Mean to You? - By Sophia Shaloka
Holidays are unique to each household. Some of us celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or we don’t celebrate anything at all. We each have our different traditions and most treasured aspects of that time between the end of November and the 1st day of January. Out of curiosity, I wanted to ask some teachers at MaST what the holidays mean to them and see how their responses differ.
Some teachers such as Mr. Skwarecki and Mr. DeLaurentis touched on valuing sleep, something I can certainly relate to. Other teachers like Ms.Koskey, Mr.Costanzo, and Ms.Morgan emphasized great food, another thing I definitely enjoy during winter break. Ms.Montag mentioned one of my favorite traditions as well: decorating the household and listening to Christmas music.
However, I was pleasantly surprised to find that there was one word that was mentioned by every teacher: family. I think spending time with your family and making lasting memories during the holidays is fairly universal amongst all walks of life. Mrs.Callahan likes to cook during the holidays so that she can see her family enjoy her food, and Mrs.MacConnell finds the faces of her eager children as they are opening their gifts to be priceless. Mrs.Greer got to celebrate both Thanksgiving and her daughter’s birthday on the same day this year and both her and Ms.Morgan will get to see some relatives from out of town during winter break. Mrs.Nolan values going to church with her family on Christmas Day. No matter how it is done, spending time with family is certainly something that brings some warmth to the cold winter season.
Small family traditions are what make the holidays truly unique to me. For as long as I can remember, I would play tag with my siblings whenever our family went to buy our Christmas tree. The thrill of hiding behind the pine needles and weaving through the trees is still something I look forward to each year. My siblings are all in college, yet we still keep this tradition when they come home for winter break. Although we students are all going our own paths soon, I think it is important to note that people like my siblings and our fellow teachers are still holding long-kept traditions with family. If you’re anything like me, you probably plan to get lots of rest, eat lots of good food, listen to festive holiday songs, and hang out with friends this break, but I hope you all designate some special time for family.
Top Song Picks - By Khushi Patel
Roxanne by Arizona Zervas
The top Tik Tok song of the month! Everyone is making cool dances and awesome videos with this song! It is definitely a song of the year.
Truth Hurts by Lizzo
Literally anything Lizzo is all the radios are playing and there is 100% a reason behind it. Her songs are super catchy and relatable if you listen to her lyrics. Her songs scream girl power, which is definitely worth a listen.
As a loyal Selenator, I can guarantee this is a new side of Selena that we have never seen. Her new song Lose You to Love Me is absolutely beautiful and different from her other albums.
This song got the entire world shipping Shawn and Camila because of their vocals and perfect harmony. Its groovy beat will be sure to get you out of your seat!
EXO, a top Korean Pop group, just recently dropped their new album Obsession. They debuted without two members, yet the song is still great as always. If you are not the usual fan, maybe give this song a listen, because it is nothing like any of their previously produced songs.
Another Korean Pop group that dropped a song recently is Mamamoo, a girl group. Their new song is all the talk in the K-Pop world and if you enjoy hip hop music this song is for you.
I personally recommend this song to anyone who likes slow and nostalgic songs. This song has very sweet lyrics that talk about childhood moments (in 2002) that the singer is remembering and how they affect her now. It is a great song and brings back many memories through the lyrics.
Kay's Favorites You Can Add to Your Christmas List
- Airpods Pro - You thought the original Airpods were great? Well add noise cancellation, a customizable fit, and transparency mode to that, now they are fantastic! These Airpods may be pricey, but they are well worth it. You can buy them at https://www.apple.com/shop/product/MWP22AM/A/airpods-pro
- Nike Epic Phantom React Flyknit Icon Clash - These shoes are easily the most comfortable and stylish shoes I’ve ever owned. Every time I wear them, I get so many compliments. I actually loved these shoes so much that after I bought them in white, I bought them in black. If you are a runner like me, or simply just want so cute and comfortable shoes, I highly recommend adding these to your wish list. You can buy them at https://www.nike.com/t/epic-phantom-react-flyknit-womens-running-shoe-7hmCfc/BV0415-100
- Tarte Rainforest of the Sea Volume III eyeshadow palette - This is absolutely my favorite eyeshadow palette ever. It contains 7 shimmer shadows, with 1 matte shadow. If you're into natural looks, this is definitely the palette for you! You can buy this at https://tartecosmetics.com/en_US/makeup/eyes/eyeshadow-palettes/limited-edition-rainforest-of-the-sea-highlighting-eyeshadow-palette-vol.-iii/1089.html
- It Cosmetics superhero mascara - I’ll never buy any other mascara. Right when I tried a sample of this mascara, I immediately bought a bigger size of it. If you want to have your lashes mistaken for false lashes, this mascara is for you! You can buy it at https://www.ulta.com/superhero-elastic-stretch-volumizing-mascara?productId=xlsImpprod13631067
- Some weights - It’s almost the new year...and you know what that means! Everyone is trying to get into shape. So to make sure you accomplish this goal, ask for a nice set of weights! You can buy them at https://www.amazon.com/CAP-Barbell-Neoprene-Coated-Dumbbell/dp/B00WW8YZAO/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&qid=1574783074&refinements=p_n_feature_keywords_two_browse-bin%3A7046994011&s=exercise-and-fitness&sr=1-1
- Amazon Echo - Every single day, I use Alexa. Wether it’s for playing music, using her as a calculator, or asking her to play white noise when I go to sleep. If you don’t have Amazon’s Alexa already, I suggest you at least ask for one, she will most likely come in handy for your daily activities. You can buy her at https://www.amazon.com/all-new-Echo/dp/B07R1CXKN7/ref=sr_1_10_sspa?keywords=echo&qid=1574783370&sr=8-10-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEzNUxNOVk1WElONFU3JmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwNTA5MjY2OFlIMkdBR0hEUTNLJmVuY3J5cHRlZEFkSWQ9QTAyNjQxNTYzNFdRU05GQkhCUjUzJndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3BfbXRmJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ==
- Proactiv 3 Step System - Although I don’t have a pimply face, I still use Proactiv and my complexion is better than ever. I started using this about 3 years ago, and since then, I noticed a huge difference in my skin. If you want clear and soft skin, this is what you need to ask for. You buy this at - https://www.proactiv.com/en_us/order
5 Ways to Spice Up Your Hot Chocolate This Holiday Season - By Payal Amin
Whether you are using a powder or making it from scratch, these five tips will make sipping on a warm cup of hot chocolate much more enjoyable.
A Dash of Cinnamon
Add a dash of ground cinnamon to your hot chocolate to add warmth and flavor to your drink.
Peppermint
Add 2-3 drops of peppermint oil to your hot chocolate to get into the holiday spirit.
Hazelnut
Add 1-2 tablespoons of hazelnut creamer to your hot chocolate if you are a Nutella lover.
A Dash of Vanilla
Add a splash of vanilla extract to your hot chocolate to take it to the next level.
Gingerbread Hot Chocolate
Add a little piece of ginger, a dash ground cinnamon, and a dash of ground clove to a cup of hot chocolate to make it taste just like your favorite holiday cookie.
Perspective During the Holidays - By Bridget McLaughlin
One of the most iconic holiday songs is “Happy Xmas (War is Over)” released by John Lennon and Yoko Ono in 1971. This song was recorded during the Vietnam War in order to show there is more that connects us than divides us. Though this song was released 48 years ago during a time of war, the message of the lyrics is even more prevalent today.
These days, not only do politics divide the world but in our own lives, we tend to seclude ourselves from one another. I know I’m especially guilty of doing this. As the holidays approach, I feel as though I’m obligated to feel joyful, even if on the inside, I’m not truly feeling that way. I don’t want to be a burden to everyone else who seems to be happy as well. During the holidays we should be honest with ourselves and our families about our struggles. The truth is, we could connect on a much deeper level if we are honest about our feelings.
There is not a single person on this earth who is without struggles. Yes, some of those struggles are much more desperate, like lack of shelter or food. Some of our problems are less noticeable, like depression or burnout. No matter what you are struggling with this holiday season, know that we are all fighting our own battles. Not a single person is without struggles, but not a single person is without help if they need it. We need to use our struggles to connect to one other during the holidays as well as throughout the entire year.
We Need to Talk About COPPA - By Stephen Schmidt
I was originally going to write a fun article on an old video game leak. It was going to be fun and goofy and feature a very cheesy message about Christmas. That would have been fun and happy, but it’s time to get serious. We need to talk about COPPA.
COPPA stands for Children's Online Privacy Protection Act. It was a law designed in 1998 that made it so online websites could not track information about kids under 13 without their parents' permission. Everyone who is reading this most likely uses Youtube. If you use Youtube you need to know that everything is about to change. Youtube said that they have been COPPA compliant for years, but they were lying. Earlier this year, the FTC fined Youtube a record 170 million dollars for selling kids' information to advertisers. Youtube will now have to follow COPPA. You may be thinking: So what? That doesn't have anything to do with me. YES, IT DOES. You know how to make your videos for kids or not for kids. If you mark your video or channel for kids, here is what will happen:
You will have no preferred ads (which make up an average of 90% of a YouTubers revenue)
No Comments
No end screens
No Info cards
No Youtube stories
No community tab
No notification bell
The video will not show up in the recommended videos slot
The video cannot be searched for
The video cannot be added to a playlist
These are very large changes that can really hurt a Youtuber. But this is just for those kid content creators, right? Wrong. The FTC defines kids' content as anything that appeals to kids. Things like cartoons, toys, video games, stories, fantasy, anything connected with kids (celebrations, or anything else attractive to children). Content that is not made for kids has these things as well. What about Pewdiepie? He curses a lot and uses racial slurs, but he makes Roblox videos. How about Dude Perfect? They play with toys all the time, but the toys aren't just for kids. How about What's Inside, The Odd One's Out, Game Theory, Markiplier, and Mr. Beast? All of those channels aren't directly made for children but they have things that appeal to kids. All the listed channels could be destroyed as the FTC has the right to sue for $42,000 per video violation. There is not much we can do except for spreading the word and hoping for the best. Sorry that's such a sour note to end on, but sometimes the truth hurts. Have a great break and I will see you all in the New Year!
Christmas Movie Reviews - by Emma Rooney
During the winter season, what’s better than cuddling up on your couch in Christmas pajamas, drinking hot chocolate, and watching holiday movies with your family? If you and your family are looking for holiday favorites to watch, here are a few:
Klaus (2019)
If you are looking for a new Christmas movie this holiday season, Klaus is a must-see! This kid-friendly movie reveals the true meaning of Christmas while telling the story of how Santa came to be. It takes place in a small village where there is a feud between the different families of the village. Jesper works together with Klaus to deliver toys to all the kids in town spreading joy and generosity. It explores friendship, family and how one true act of kindness can create peace between the families. How a little Christmas spirit can turn lifelong enemies into friends. Although the movie starts with a scary dark demeanor as the Christmas spirit ignites, things take a turn for the better. By the end of the movie, you will be filled with lots of Christmas spirit and be ready to give. Also, you will now finally know how Santa got the job.
How The Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
If you are looking for a classic, watch Dr.Seuss's The Grinch Stole Christmas. I'm sure you may have seen this movie before as a kid, but it is still entertaining to watch the Grinch's character development in modern times. With an added factor of comedy, this is a great movie to bring some laughs and nostalgia to your household this year!
Elf (2003)
If you are looking for a change instead of watching a classic movie, watch Elf, a comedic interpretation on Christmas. Will Farrell plays Buddy the Elf, a man who was raised by elves and looks for his real father in New York City. Not only do you get some laughs, but you witness his journey looking for true love and a little spirit will save Christmas.