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9/11 COMMEMORATION 12TH ANNIVERSARY: “ON 9/11, I REMEMBER, SUPPORT, PAY HOMAGE; I ALSO BELIEVE AND HAVE FAITH!* UPDATE – SEPT.9, 2013

Vol. 4, No.22, Monday, September 9, 2013

TITLE:  “9/11 COMMEMORATION 12TH ANNIVERSARY: “On 9/11, I remember, support, pay homage; I also believe and have faith!*” UPDATE – Sept.11th, 2013

INTRODUCTION

It will soon be Wednesday, September 11th, 2013.  I am again thinking about that fateful day in fall, 2001 when the world changed. I am also thinking about where we are now, on this, the 11th anniversary of 9/11. My book remains the same:  “Commission Report 911 by Commission National” (Hardcover – Aug 30 2004). This book contributes to our understanding of this horrific event. (Editor’s Note: This is the thirds update of the blog post, first published  Vol. 1,  No. 14, September 12th, 2010)

UPDATE-Sept. 11, 2013

I recognize the magnitude of the catastrophe. I am sad over the loss of life. Last night, I watched a show commemorating 9/11. I again saw some of the unforgettable images from that fateful day. I was touched by the stories of people who were there and are still living with their painful memories. I heard about some who had moved on. I fear that it will happen again.

P.S. In the show, there was a Muslim woman, who stated that 9/11 was committed by terrorists who happen to be Muslim extremists. She regrets that many Americans look at Muslims with suspicion. She states the vast majority of U.S. Muslims are loyal Americans – they live in peace and harmony with their countrymen. This statement made me think of the new Quebec law that the P.Q. provincial government is attempting to pass, which would prohibit the wearing of religious head gear and visible symbols in public places.  I think that this is wrong. We need to respect all our fellow citizens and their freedom of religion.

P. P.S. A while back, I saw a TV program about a man who misrepresented that he was a victim of the 9/11 attack – he tried to get money for the loss of a non-existent partner. I was repulsed by his greed, insensitivity and lack of morals. He is one of the lowest of the low! 

UPDATE – Sept.11, 2012

On September 4^th, in Quebec, Canada, we just had a general election – it was quite acrimonious. Once the polls closed, a man angry with the election results, showed up at the victory party of the winning leader/party. He was armed, killing one innocent, wounding another, trying to get to the Premier – elect presumably to carry out an assassination.  Those with a political agenda still live to die and do us harm. This was close to home. There is still work to do to stop terrorism, foreign and home-grown. We owe it to the fallen on 9/11.

P.S. On the news this morning, there was an announcement that a further benefits package for first responders and others at ground zero was to be put into place. While it’s late, I will still say that’s good! Recognition of those brave souls shall never cease. Love and gratitude for them is an ongoing work in progress.

ANTOINETTE’S LIFE & TIMES*

This week, it has been heartbreaking to again watch on television some of the footage on the events of the 911 attacks. Today, I watched some TV documentaries. I went numb in shock all over again. There were images of blown out windows, people running down the stairs trying to escape, etc.

The thought of the jumpers was extremely tough. The falling man photo was difficult to look at. The stories of flight 93 and the others were so moving. The fact is that many people didn’t make it. The lives of so many innocent people were lost.

A terrorist organization, Al-Qaeda, claimed responsibility. It was the doer of the deed. We attempt to get into their heads, trying to make sense of their intentions – it can’t be done. It is necessary to find these to be evil acts.  These were murderers.  The hijackers died, but they were not punished. Many of the leaders, especially Osama Bin Laden have been killed, but they have not been punished. These people should have been punished.

The allies went into Afghanistan and waged war, toppling the Taliban, a regime in a failed state, harboring Al-Qaeda.  The cost has been huge. Many soldier lives were sacrificed.  There have been several notable subsequent attacks, foreign or home-grown, in many countries.  Many further civilian lives have been lost.  Now 10 years later, the world is still, very much, in a defensive mode.  Getting on a plane is still very difficult – high security is necessary. There have been many complaints about “patting down”.   The announcement about the killing of Bin Laden, the master-mind of the 9/ll attacks, finally came. President Obama got it done, but there was no relief. The number two also was taken out, and still no relief.   There still is a fear that other attacks might happen.  Word is that Bin Laden had plans for another attack on the tenth anniversary.  New York and most of the world are on high alert.  The war against terror goes on.

There has been one controversy after another: what to do with ground zero, the building of a mosque in lower Manhattan, the deteriorating health of the 9/11 first responders. (The US Congress just recently passed a bill covering their care.)

But I really want to talk about the people.  I pray for those who left us so suddenly.  I pray for the victim families. Last week on a morning show, a lady along with her children, talked about how they want to put the tragedy behind them and move on with their lives.  From 9/11 victims fund, both of the children were given scholarships to study in Great Britain.  They both took advantage of the offer and got a good education.  It’s nice to know that these folks were provided for and are gaining success. That makes me feel good. And while I am brought to tears by the heroism of average people, so many heroes, their selfless sacrifice … I am strengthened in my belief in people, their goodness. I thank you all who gave so much from the bottom of my heart.

In closing, I recognize that our world wide global village is getting smaller. No matter where we live, we were all witnesses to 9/11, the worst and best in humanity. The aftermath is just more of the same – the best and worst of what humanity has to offer.

Ground Zero refused to be the abyss. Instead, in a flash, it turned into holy ground and in 10 years,  it has become a place for a memorial garden and a construction site where the new World Trade Center is proudly being erected – proof positive that good does indeed beat evil. We don’t forget, but together we move on!

And that’s my thought of the week on books, what’s yours? *
ALP
“Books are life; and they make life better!*”
Take it out for a spin and tell me if you agree.
And that’s my thought of the week on books, what’s yours?*
ALP

P.S. Big News: There are big changes coming to my blog – please stay tuned.

P.P.S. #1 I have a TWITTER page. Consider becoming a follower? Visit www.twitter.com –   saveandread
P.P.S. #2 I also have a FACEBOOK page. Consider becoming a friend? Visit: www.facebook.com – Alp Save Andread – please check it out.
P.P.S. #3 I am on Linkedin. Consider becoming a connection? Visit  www.linkedin.com – Antoinette La Posta

*TM/© 2010, 2011, 2012,2013  Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved.
=========================================================================ORIGINAL POST – Vol. 1,  No. 14, September 12th, 2010

MY LIFE & TIMES*

This weekend, on the anniversary of 9/11, I got to thinking about that fateful day. I would like to share with you some of my experiences and thoughts.

Since I start work at 8:00 a.m., I was in the office when I first heard the bulletin. I will always remember that moment. It is one of the significant days of my generation. In the instance of the deaths of Pres. J.F. Kennedy, Robert Kennedy, Dr. King, etc. and the walk on the moon by Astronaut Neil Armstrong and the fall of Saigon, I was younger and not quite part of the adult world. But with 9/11, I was of age and I had to deal with it.

It was approximately 10:00 a.m. when people were slowly trickling into my work space to discuss the tragedy. I could not quite believe it. I kept thinking that the TV pictures were from a horror movie not the news channel. When I kind of digested what had happened, it kept getting worse. I desperately wanted it to stop. Like everyone, I did not then know how it would escalate and play out. It marked me along with the entire world.

STATISTICS/STUDY
Here are some stats:
Overall
*The victims numbered about 3,000;
* There were 19 hijackers who died;
World Trade Center
* There were 2,752 victims of which there were: (a) 343 firefighters; (b) 60 police officers from New York City and the Port Authority; (As per  the New York State Health Department, 836 responders died as of June 2009.)
* Most were civilians, including nationals from more than 70 nations;
* People in the 100s were killed instantly upon the planes crashing into the the towers, while many of the others were trapped and died after the buildings collapsed.
* About 200 +- jumped to their deaths;
* There was one secondary death, from lung disease due to dust from the building collapse;
Pentagon
* At Pentagon, there were 184 people who died.
(Source: Commission Report, Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia, etc.)

THE AUTHOR: 9/11 Commission
The 9/11 Commission – its formal name is the National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States. It was established on November 27, 2002. Its mandate was: “to prepare a full and complete account of the circumstances surrounding the September 11, 2001 attacks, including preparedness for and the immediate response to the attacks”
(Source Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia).

SERIES/COLLECTION
There are many books on topic; as for example, notably:
1.  “New Pearl Harbour” by David Ray Griffin;
2.  “ The 911 Commission Report Omissions and Distortions” by David Griffin;
3. “Crossing the Rubicon” by Michael C Ruppert;
5. “Towers of Deception” by Barrie Zwicker;
(N.B. These books are enumerated for your information – I am not recommending them and I do not necessarily subscribe to their conclusions.)

THE BOOK: Commission Report 911 by Commission National (Hardcover – Aug 30 2004)
It is a comprehensive document, fact-filled narrative of the real story, step-by-step, playing out in several locations involving many people. It is both heart-breaking from the immense tragedy and uplifting due to the heroic acts of ordinary folks meeting the challenges and becoming shining stars of the righteous. Read and endure, but also rise to the heavens. It is an impressive read, which will surely move you. You will finish it with an opinion of what was good and what was deficient in the U.S. response.

CONCLUSION
The 9/11 tragedy affected all of us emotionally. For me, I felt numb because of the innocent people at work killed for no reason. I also felt fear. But in the end, I felt hope out of courage.
The point
It was a horrible event. I will not deal with the policies – I will leave that to the governments. I will not deal with the politics – I will leave that to the politicians. I will not deal with the issues of the military – I will leave that to the top brass and the officer corp. But I will deal with the human side.
1. First, people perished that day – I remember and will never forget. I also acknowledge the tours of duty served and the supreme sacrifice of brave American, Canadian and other NATO soldiers in Afghanistan. etc., and I affirm my heartfelt gratitude and support.
2. Second, families lost loved ones – I extend my deepest sympathy and express my personal wish to stand with them to provide never-ending succor.
3. Third, there were heroes – I pay homage to these brave people.
4. Fourth, because of an appointment or a stop at a grocery store or just missing the bus, arrivals were delayed until after the tragedy had started; and as a result, lives were incredibly spared. When I heard some of the stories that were revealed later, it confirmed my belief in destiny – I believe.
5. Finally, I encourage each and every person who survived 9/11 to extend a courtesy to one another regardless, of nationality, creed, religion, etc. – I have faith that, someday, the world shall overcome the cause of 9/11 and we all shall live in harmony.

Take it out for a spin and tell me if you agree.
And that’s my thought of the week on books, what’s yours? *
ALP
“Books are life; and they make life better!*”
CREDITS
-Web Tech:  richmediasound.com
The above is a new media production of Valente under its “United Author*” program.
*TM/© 2010, 2011, 2012 Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved.

——————————————————————————————————–
ANNEX I: NEED SOMETHING FURTHER?, TRY AN ANECDOTE OR A QUOTE:

S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTAGE #1: Al Jazeera

“President Mubarak of Egypt was on an official visit to Qatar and asked to be shown the network [the fiestily independent Arab television network, Al Jazeera],” an Iraqi employee once recalled. “He arrived unannounced and at first the guys on the gate didn’t recognize him. When he finally got inside, he was appalled at how small we were. ‘So this,’ he said, ‘is the tiny tinderbox that started such a big fire.’”

[“Whatever we do, people say, ‘Why are you doing this now?'” Al Jazeera’s Ali Mohammed Kamal once remarked of Arabic culture of suspicion and paranoia. “They even said it when we did a story on the history of the Lebanese civil war. And when we ran a video of one of the 9/11 hijackers reading his own will before embarking on the attack, we were accused of distracting attentino from the [Israeli] siege on Arafat’s compound. [pause] But Arafat’s compound is always under siege. For us, the news is the news.”] (Source: www.anecdotage.com) – http://www.anecdotage.com/index.php?aid=14709

S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTAGE #2: Tumbling Woman
“In 2002, officials at New York’s Rockefeller Center unveiled a sculpture called “Tumbling Woman” by Eric Fischl intended to commemorate victims of the 9/11 World Trade Center attack who fell (or jumped) from the towers’ windows. Following a host of complaints, “Tumbling Woman” was deemed inappropriate and promptly removed.” (Source: www.anecdotage.com) –  http://www.anecdotage.com/index.php?aid=16181

S & R* QUOTE #1: President George W. Bush
“It changed my presidency …it was like walking into hell.”

S & R* QUOTE #2: – Aristotle
“Fear is pain arising from the anticipation of evil.” (Source:  Wisdom Quotes) –  http://www.wisdomquotes.com/index.html#nq

ANNEX II
SCHEDULE I
“IT WORDS FOR ME!*”
For today, my word/phrase(s) are: “World Trade Center (N.Y)”; “9/11 Attacks”; etc.

World Trade Center

“The original World Trade Center was a complex of seven buildings featuring landmark twin towers in Lower Manhattan, New York City, United States. The complex opened on April 4, 1973, and was destroyed in 2001 during the September 11 attacks. The site is being rebuilt with five new skyscrapers and a memorial to the casualties of the attacks. As of September 2011[update], only one skyscraper has been completed with four more expected to be completed before 2020. A sixth tower is still awaiting confirmation to be built. At the time of their completion, the original 1 and 2 World Trade Center were the tallest buildings in the world, surpassing the Empire State Building, also in Manhattan.

The complex was designed in the early 1960s by Minoru Yamasaki and Associates of Troy, Michigan, and Emery Roth and Sons of New York.[2] The twin 110-story towers used a tube-frame structural design. To gain approval for the project, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey agreed to take over the Hudson & Manhattan Railroad, which became the Port Authority Trans-Hudson (PATH). Groundbreaking for the World Trade Center took place on August 5, 1966. The North Tower (1) was completed in December 1972 and the South Tower (2) was finished in July 1973. The construction project involved excavating a large amount of material, which was later used as landfill to build Battery Park City on the west side of Lower Manhattan. The cost for the construction was $400 million ($2,169,167,354 in 2011 dollars).[3] The complex was located in the heart of New York City’s downtown financial district and contained 13.4 million square feet (1.24 million m2) of office space.[4][5] The Windows on the World restaurant was located on the 106th and 107th floors of 1 World Trade Center (the North Tower) while the Top of the World observation deck was located on the 107th floor of 2 World Trade Center (the South Tower). Other World Trade Center buildings included the Marriott World Trade Center; 4 World Trade Center; 5 World Trade Center; 6 World Trade Center, which housed the United States Customs. All of these buildings were built between 1975 and 1981. The final building constructed was 7 World Trade Center, which was built in 1985. The second King Kong was filmed in 1976 with some scenes mentioning and showing the World Trade Center. The World Trade Center experienced a fire on February 13, 1975, and a bombing on February 26, 1993. In 1998, the Port Authority decided to privatize the World Trade Center, leasing the buildings to a private company to manage, and awarded the lease to Silverstein Properties in July 2001.” (Source: Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_Trade_Center

9/11 Attacks

“The September 11 attacks (also referred to as September 11, September 11th or 9/11[nb 1]) were a series of four coordinated suicide attacks upon the United States in New York City and the Washington, D.C., area on September 11, 2001. On that Tuesday morning, 19 terrorists from the Islamist militant group al-Qaeda hijacked four passenger jets.[3][4] The hijackers intentionally crashed two planes, American Airlines Flight 11 and United Airlines Flight 175, into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City; both towers collapsed within two hours. Hijackers crashed American Airlines Flight 77 into the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. The fourth jet, United Airlines Flight 93, crashed into a field near Shanksville, Pennsylvania, after passengers attempted to take control before it could reach the hijacker’s intended target in Washington, D.C. Nearly 3,000 died in the attacks.[5][6][7]
Suspicion quickly fell on al-Qaeda, and in 2004, the group’s leader Osama bin Laden, who had initially denied involvement, claimed responsibility for the attacks.[2] Al-Qaeda and bin Laden cited U.S. support of Israel, the presence of U.S. troops in Saudi Arabia, and sanctions against Iraq as motives for the attacks. The United States responded to the attacks by launching the War on Terror, invading Afghanistan to depose the Taliban, who had harbored al-Qaeda members. Many countries strengthened their anti-terrorism legislation and expanded law enforcement powers. In May 2011, after years at large, bin Laden was found and killed.

The destruction caused serious damage to the economy of Lower Manhattan.[8] Cleanup of the World Trade Center site was completed in May 2002, and the Pentagon was repaired within a year. Numerous memorials were constructed, including the National September 11 Memorial & Museum in New York, the Pentagon Memorial, and the Flight 93 National Memorial. Adjacent to the National Memorial, the 1,776 feet (541 m) One World Trade Center is estimated for completion in 2013.[9]” (Source: Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/9/11

SCHEDULE II
STUDY/STATISTICS:

See above.

SCHEDULE III
S & R* NEWS ALERT* #1: 9/11 activities for Canadians
(NC)—”The images and painful memories of the September 11 terror attacks may still be fresh on the minds of the families who lost loved ones—even though they occurred a decade ago. For the rest of us, the constant dose of discouraging news events—from natural disasters, civic unrest, heinous crimes, scandal-plagued celebrities, and sporadic eruptions of violence—are enough to desensitize us to the horrors experienced by victims on that fateful day.

To soften your heart to the every day realities of the Sept. 11 victims’ families and friends, consider taking part in one of these activities:

1 Write letters of appreciation to your local fire, police, and emergency services departments. Also don’t forget the service men and women who fight terrorism overseas. These individuals live lives of sacrifice. Remember to say “thanks”.

2 Act on compassion. Think of ways you can make positive change in the world. Share your talents at a seniors centre. Volunteer at a soup kitchen. Help a child living in extreme poverty through Christian Children’s Fund of Canada. The opportunities are there if you are willing to act.

3 Embrace multiculturalism. On 9/11, countries around the world set aside their cultural differences to unite in sympathy over the thousands who perished. Do your part to promote peace by: reading biographies about notable country leaders who had a positive impact on their constituents; opening your mind and taste buds to ethnic foods; or learning a new language.

Participate in these activities to make 9/11 a lesson learned on compassion and sensitivity. Keep informed on landmark events that changed the world and do your part to improve your world.”www.newscanada.com “News Canada” <article@newscanada.com>www.newscanada.com”

*TM/© 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved.

Vol. 4, No.21, Friday, August 30th, 2013

TITLE: “LABOUR (LABOR)  DAY: It is the day to honor working men and women; whether weekend, holiday, classic, etc.,  I like it … a lot!– UPDATE 2013”

INTRODUCTION

With Labour Day this weekend, I thought that it would be interesting to look into the history and the doings of this holiday- it is celebrated in many parts of the world.   Hence, my subject is Labour day. My book of the week is “Labour Day” [Paperback] by Jesse Russell (Author), Ronald Cohn (Author) (Editor’s Note: This is another post in a continuing series on holidays and special dates.)  

ANTOINETTE’S LIFE & TIMES*

Significance

Labour Day, regardless how you spell it … with or without a “u”, originated as a result of the labour movement. It is a day off on the first Monday in September.  Nowadays, it is, more or less, the season changer … signaling the date to get seriously down to work. It is also the period for special sales. If with school age kids, parents  use these days for last minute preparations for the start of a new school year. With the airing of the annual Jerry Lewis MDS telethon, it’s even the moment to think of others. You can therefore spend money thinking of yourself and also of others.

Working at educational institution

Labour day is about workers. I worked for an educational institution for 35 years.  We were all members of a union and paid union dues.  Although at times, we complained that our union was not negotiating hard enough for us, our working conditions were very good and we were well paid.

Family Time

How do we celebrate the last long weekend of summer? In my home, it was and still is a day to spend with family.

UPDATE 2013

Like most people, I see this as being the last weekend before getting back to serious work, starting in September.  Usually, I enjoy this time with family. I also try to relax. This year, with the move into the new house and remodeling, while I look forward to some visiting, mostly I will be busy unpacking and cleaning. I’m looking forward to going back to work – you see … I’ll get to sit down! 

THE AUTHOR:   Jesse Russell

Jesse Russell (Ventura)  has an impressive résumé. He was a U.S. Navy Seal, professional wrestler, movie actor – he is also a former Independent governor of Minnesota and a former visiting fellow at Harvard Kennedy School of Government. He is a  bestselling New York Times author.  He is currently the host and executive producer of truTV’s Conspiracy Theory with Jesse Ventura.

SERIES/COLLECTION

Books/Articles:

Here are a few :

• 63 Documents the Government Doesn’t Want You to Read by Jesse Ventura and Dick Russell (Paperback – Mar 5 2012)
• DemoCRIPS and ReBLOODlicans: No More Gangs in Government by Jesse Ventura and Dick Russell (Hardcover – Jun 12 2012)
• Tengriism by Jesse Russell and Ronald Cohn (Paperback – Mar 12 2012)
• Walter Seymour Allward by Jesse Russell and Ronald Cohn
• Bandidos Motorcycle Club by Jesse Russell and Ronald Cohn (Paperback – May 25 2012) 

THE BOOK: Labour Day [Paperback] by Jesse Russell (Author), Ronald Cohn (Author) 

Labor Day is a celebration of achievements accomplished by workers. It was started by the labour union movement regarding the eight-hour day formula. Its was eight hours for work, eight hours for recreation and eight hours for rest. 

This book is significant in validating Labour day from a workplace standpoint. This day is also culturally important.  Labour day has been part of the lives of the generations before  and continues to be a part of our lives today.   Knowing where we`ve been helps us to see more clearly where we are and where we are going.  (Source in part: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia)

CONCLUSION

Labour Day is the day when the contributions of working men and women are recognized.  It’s also a day to take pause from work. Remember the saying: “All work and no play makes “Jack” a dull boy.” Indeed, I encourage one and all to “Play it again … Some!”

Personal Comments

I say:

1.      That it’s great to know that, in our country, we have labour standards.  For example, we must sometimes work overtime, but it should not be on a regular basis. There are also safety regulations. Who can argue with being safe in the workplace? The enforcement of standards and regulations and the upholding of worker rights make for a quality of life for all of us. 

2.      That I want working conditions to be improved for all workers worldwide.

3.      That what concerns me the most is child labour. We live in a country where there are rules against that. In my book, there is zero tolerance for such atrocities. A few years ago, I was watching a documentary show on television. I was shocked to hear that a major company was accused of using child labour to produce products under a very expensive, well-known brand. Some people refuse to buy such products. Let’s retaliate and stop buying the brands that use children.   

4.      That this is a day for you to live  … doing the things that you like to do.

5.      That during the year, we don’t get that many three-day weekends. This is the last chance for a get-a-way before the end of vacation and start of the school year

6.     That on this day, we should use the time to relax and unwind.  It recharges the body and allows a person to go back to work with more energy.  When rested, a person can be more productive.   

Point

Labour day: let`s make the most of it and also enjoy it.

ANTOINETTE’S TIP SHEET*

I encourage everyone to:

 1.      Take the day off. It’s the day for worker bees and Queen Bee alike to take a time out weekend.  Put up a “Gone fishing” sign on your hive!

2.      Go to an event or activity planned on Labour Day.

3.      Make it a family day. 

4.      Prepare for school if you have children. 

5.     Plan a get-a-way weekend before summer ends. 

6.      Catch up on work around the house; it’s also the day to close up your summer cottage, (if you have one) before the winter.

7.      Have a BBQ.

8.      Play a sport or enjoy a hobby.

9.      Start reading a new book.

10.      Watch a TV sports program like a Labour Day Classic or the annual Jerry Lewis MDS Telethon.

11.      Put away, if you know what’s good for you,  your white shoes!

So there you have it. Without getting too dry on the info, I tried to alert you that it’s the point to get serious on rest and relaxation. Let’s all get into the easy-going mood for Labour Day. And yes, I really like Labour Day. So much so, I ask: “Pretty please …. can we have a few others: how about the  first Monday of October followed by the first Monday in November? I promise to smile a lot!*

And that’s my thought of the week on books, what’s yours?*
Take it out for a spin and tell me if you agree.
ALP
“Books are life; and they make life better!*”

P.S. Big News: There are changes coming made to my blog. Please stay tuned.

P.P.S. #1 I have a TWITTER page. Consider becoming a follower? Visit www.twitter.com –   saveandread
P.P.S. #2 I also have a FACEBOOK page. Consider becoming a friend? Visit: www.facebook.com – Alp Save Andread – please check it out.
P.P.S. #3 I am on Linkedin. Consider becoming a connection? Visit  www.linkedin.com – Antoinette La Posta

CREDITS

-Web Tech:  richmediasound.com

The above is a new media production of Valente under its “United Author*” program.
*TM/© 2013, 2012 Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved.
===============================================================

PAGE 2

NEED SOMETHING FURTHER? TRY SAVE AND READ* (S&R*) BACKGROUNDER: ANTOINETTE’S 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5

ONE – “I SHOULD HAVE SAID THAT!*” – QUOTES 

S & R* QUOTE #1: Eleanor Roosevelt

“Life must be lived and curiosity kept alive. One must never, for whatever reason, turn his back on life.”  (Source: Wisdom Quotes  http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/life/)

S & R* QUOTE #2: Albert Einstein 

“Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance you must keep moving.” (Source: Wisdom Quotes  http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/life/) 

 S & R* QUOTE #3:

TWO – “IT WORDS FOR ME!*”
For today, my word/phrase(s) are: “Labour Day”; “Labour Union”

Labour Day

“Labor Day or Labour Day is an annual holiday to celebrate the achievements of workers. Labour Day has its origins in the labour union movement, specifically the eight-hour day movement, which advocated eight hours for work, eight hours for recreation, and eight hours for rest.”  (Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) –http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Labour_Day

Labour Union

“A trade union (British English), labour union (Canadian English) or labor union (American English) is an organization of workers who have banded together to achieve common goals such as protecting the integrity of its trade, achieving higher pay, increasing the number of employees an employer hires, and better working conditions.”

(Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia)–http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page)

THREE – STUDY/STATISTICS:

“Labour Day has been celebrated on the first Monday in September in Canada since the 1880s. The origins of Labour Day in Canada can be traced back to December 1872 when a parade was staged in support of the Toronto Typographical Union’s strike for a 58-hour work-week.^[1] The Toronto Trades Assembly (TTA) called its 27 unions to demonstrate in support of the Typographical Union who had been on strike since March 25. ^[1] George Brown, Canadian politician and editor of the Toronto Globe hit back at his striking employees, pressing police to charge the Typographical Union with “conspiracy.”^[1] Although the laws criminalising union activity were outdated and had already been abolished in Great Britain, they were still on the books in Canada and police arrested 24 leaders of the Typographical Union.

An old fashioned tradition in Canada and the United States bans the wearing of white after Labour Day. Explanations for this tradition vary; the most common is that white is a summer colour and Labour Day unofficially marks the end of summer. The rule may have been intended as a status symbol for new members of the upper and middle classes in the late 19th and early 20th century.^[1][2]” (Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) –   http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Labour_Day)

“The trade union, through its leadership, bargains with the employer on behalf of union members (rank and file members) and negotiates labour contracts (collective bargaining) with employers. The most common purpose of these associations or unions is “maintaining or improving the conditions of their employment“.^[1]

This may include the negotiation of wages, work rules, complaint procedures, rules governing hiring, firing and promotion of workers, benefits, workplace safety and policies. The agreements negotiated by the union leaders are binding on the rank and file members and the employer and in some cases on other non-member workers. 

The origins of unions’ existence can be traced from the 18th century, where the rapid expansion of industrial society drew women, children, rural workers, and immigrants to the work force in numbers and in new roles.  Trade unions as such were endorsed by the Catholic Church towards the end of the 19th century. Pope Leo XIII in his “Magna Carta“—Rerum Novarum—spoke against the atrocities workers faced and demanded that workers should be granted certain rights and safety regulations.^[2] Industries like textile mills and railways companies had started in India in the latter half of the 19th century.” (Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) –  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trade_union)

FOUR – BONUS ARTICLES

S & R*NEWS ALERT*#1: Healthy eats make Labour Day celebrations better

“As summer comes to a close with the Labour Day weekend, families, neighbours and friends will be hosting a lot of get-togethers and feeding the masses. You’re bound to see the usual spread of hamburgers, chips and soda pop. However, if you would like to step it up a notch and mix in an original, healthy and tasty dish that offers your guests a megawatt dose of bio-available minerals, the Canadian Health Food Association (CHFA) has the recipe to do just that. You can find the ingredients at any natural health retailer or visit chfa.ca to find one in your community. Also consider preparing a little ingredients card too, letting your guests know that health can taste fabulous.

Orange Infused Walnut Kale Salad

Ingredients (Try to use organic ingredients):

6-8 handfuls of kale (baby kale that is organic and pre-washed if possible)

3/4 cup walnuts

2 small oranges sliced  

Dressing:

1/3 cup sesame or extra-virgin olive oil

1/2 cup brown rice vinegar

4 tbsp orange (naturally) flavoured Omega 3 fish oil. (or hemp or flax oil)

1/2 cup fresh mint

Fresh juice from 1 orange

2 tbsp orange rind

Method: Place all your dressing ingredients into a food processor and blend till the mint is completely chopped up, about 30 seconds. Place your leafy greens into a large bowl and toss with the dressing. Sprinkle with walnuts and orange slices. (Makes 4 generous servings.)

More tasty recipes are available online at chfa.ca.” www.newscanada.com 

S & R*NEWS ALERT*#2: Family time will beat the end-of-summer blues

“The Labour Day weekend marks the unofficial end of summer, but it’s not too late to get in some last-minute fun around town. Here are some suggestions for packing in your last week of summer-oriented fun.

Get in one last camping trip. Pack up and head out for a day or a weekend surrounded by nature. Remember your camping checklist to make the trip a success.

Explore your city by bike. Get two wheels on the road and tour your town on a family bike outing. Ride familiar routes or discover a new favourite trail.

Take a trip to a local farmer’s market and pick your own favourite summer produce while you still can. Or, get hands-on in your own kitchen and make some refreshing popsicles.

You can also take time out with the kids to think about what you all can do as a family to help those in need. Organize a fundraiser with neighbours, extended family, and friends. Or, virtually help others through the web. Organizations like Christian Children’s Fund of Canada (www.ccfcanada.ca) have an online gift catalogue to connect your family to the needs of children living in poverty around the world.

Discover the joy of giving to others and make the remaining summer days count.” www.newscanada.com  

*TM/© 2013, 2012 Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved. 

Vol. 4, No. 14, July 2^nd, 2013

TITLE: “NATIONAL HOLIDAYS: The 1st of July – Canada Day; the 4th of July – (U.S.) Independence Day,  I say: Let’s celebrate!*” – UPDATE JULY 2013

INTRODUCTION

The arrival of the month of July means national holidays in Canada and the United States. The 1st is Canada Day; and the 4th is Independence Day.  My books of the week are: 1) Rookie Read-About Holidays: Canada Day [Paperback] by Patricia J Murphy (Author); and  2) Apple Pie 4th Of July [Paperback] by Janet S. Wong (Author), Margaret Chodos-Irvine (Illustrator). Hence, my topic of the week is celebrating your national day. (Editor’s Note: This is another post in a continuing series on holidays and special dates.)

PREVIEW: Next week, I will talk about garage sales – in some places, they are called yard sales. I just held one at my home and I want to share with you some of my experiences and the things that I learned. And yes …. my price is firm! (Editor’s Note: This is another post in a continuing series on homemakers: homes and gardens.)

MY LIFE & TIMES*

As young adults, my parents emigrated to Canada, a land of opportunity … a place to work hard and make a good life for themselves and also a family. Although they loved and had a deep attachment to Italy, their country of birth, they were very proud of their adopted homeland.  They felt fortunate that their children could secure a fine education and good jobs in Canada. My parents succeeded and they wished to become Canadian citizens. I was a child when it happened – yet I vividly remember their elation.  (P.S. The only thing that they complained of … was our hard winters.)

In years past, the 1st of July was Dominion Day. It was a big deal. Now it is Canada Day. It is an even bigger deal! Led by festivities in Ottawa, our capital, there are parades, the waving of flags in the hands of young and old alike, cultural shows, fireworks … and further special TV programming … the tops  … first class all the way!  Weather permitting, I usually enjoy an outdoor activity, getting together with family & friends, watching fireworks, etc. –  I really have fun!

Indeed, I am a very proud Canadian. I cheered on Canada’s athletes at the last Winter Olympics, held in Vancouver.  I was so pleased with the performance of my countrymen and women. I got into the spirit of the achievement, both individual and collective.

Update 2012: The big day is next week. I’m checking out the published “in your community” schedules. I plan to attend and participate in at least one event.

Closer to home, my daughter is throwing a Canada Day party.  Now that’s a great idea! We offered some mini Canadian flags as decoration. As well, I am pleased to advise that my granddaughter is to be in a parade this weekend – I’ll be there … I wouldn’t miss it!

As my closing note for this update, I say: “For me, Canada is a land of freedom. The diversity and the many cultures make Canada a very interesting place in which to live.  No matter where I travel, I’m always happy to return home. Canadians are respected worldwide.  I feel so fortunate that I was born in this wonderful country.”

Update 2013: This past Canada’s Day I was in the midst of moving.  After a long day of organizing and storing my stuff, we went out for supper and celebrated Canada’s Day. Hopefully, next year, we’ll be able to enjoy Canada’s Day weekend.

THE AUTHOR: 1) Patricia J Murphy 2) Janet S. Wong

1) Patricia J Murphy

Patricia J Murphy is a children’s writer, communications and marketing consultant. She founded Pattycake Productions, a creative services agency. She has written magazine articles and 150+ children’s books. She has a family and lives in a northern suburb of Chicago, IL, USA. She has won several awards.

2) Janet S. Wong

Janet S. Wong is an author of 23+ books: picture books about family, poetry about yoga and driving, chapter books about friendship, etc.  Her readers go from toddler to adult. She is a speaker at teacher conferences. She lives in Princeton, N.J., U.S.A.

SERIES/COLLECTION

Books

Patricia J Murphy

Some books by Patricia J Murphy are:

• Think Twice, Be Nice, Rigby Publishing, Division of Reed Elsevier, Barrington, IL, 2001.
• Sometimes We’re Happy, Sometimes We’re Sad, Rigby Publishing, Division of Reed Elsevier, Barrington, IL, 2001.
• Let’s See: Voting and Elections, Compass Point Books, Minn., MN, 2001.
• Let’s See: The Presidency, Compass Point Books, Minn., MN, 2001.
• Let’s See: The U.S. Congress, Compass Point Books, Minn., MN, 2002.
  Let’s See: The U.S.  Supreme Court, Compass Point Books, Minn, MN, 2002.
  Let’s See: Our National Holidays, Compass Point Books, Minn., MN, 2002.
  Eye Wonder! Rigby Publishing, Divison of Reed Elsevier, Inc., Barrington, IL, 2001.
  Simple Machines, Rosen Real Readers, Rosen Publishing, New York, 2001.
  How a Frog Gets Its Legs, Rosen Real Readers, Rosen Publishing, New York, 2001.
  A Visit to the Art Museum, Rosen Real Readers, Rosen Publishing, Buffalo, NY, 2002.
  Fun with Fractions, Rosen Real Readers, Rosen Publishing, Buffalo, NY, 2002.
  Rookie Read-About Holidays: Canada Day [Paperback]

Janet S. Wong
Some books by Janet S. Wong are:

• The Trip Back Homne
• Buzz
• Twist
• Behind The Wheel
• Me and Rolly Maloo
• Minn and  Jake
• Before it Wriggles Aw
• Apple Pie 4th Of July

THE BOOK: 1) Rookie Read-About Holidays: Canada Day [Paperback] by Patricia J Murphy (Author) 2) Apple Pie 4th Of July [Paperback] by Janet S. Wong (Author), Margaret Chodos-Irvine (Illustrator)

1) Rookie Read-About Holidays: Canada Day [Paperback] by Patricia J Murphy (Author)
This book is a primer about Canada Day in printed form. It explains the history, importance, and celebration of this – Canada’s No. 1 holiday.  Such is a tool to informing the reader about Canada Day. The author asks whether you celebrate Canada Day? She prompts the children with words or phrases and images: birthday, Canada’s flag, Canadian Mounties,   celebrate, fireworks, maple leaf, provinces, etc. There is material about: British North America Act. anthem: “O Canada”, etc.  (N.B. The Rookie Books series tries to make its readers more worldly literally and figuratively.)

2) Apple Pie 4th of July by Janet S. Wong (Author), Margaret Chodos-Irvine (Illustrator)

This book informs the readers about the 4th of July – the No. 1 holiday of the United States of America. It is couched in the story of a young girl’s experience as a first-generation Chinese-American. She wants to fit in but anxious about her belief that her immigrant parents don’t understand what it is to be American. She wants all things American like the All-American apple pie being baked by a neighbor.  They have a market, cooking away … Chinese food of course. She thinks this to be a mistake. It’s the 4th …the 4th of July and she has a sense of the holiday- the parade is coming; and she expects that customers would not be interested in Chinese dishes. But all turns out well. Father and Mom knew best! The market was patronized by many fellow Americans in the party mode, … in the mood for Chinese food. The 4th of July is Independence Day and this is for all Americans together! Readers learn about the holiday and also that inclusiveness is good. Chinese Americans are welcome; indeed, fireworks are a big part of the 4th and such was invented by the Chinese!  Illustrations are suited to readers 

CONCLUSION

I love my country. I look forward to the 1st of July – Canada’s national day. I celebrate it …my way.

Of course, I am aware of the 4th of July – the U.S. national day of independence. I have travelled and enjoyed the festivities along with Americans in the border states. On this day, I wish them the warmest congratulations and a great party.

And I know that people everywhere on the planet celebrate their home and native land on their own national days. To them, I also offer my best wishes and joyful times.

Personal Comments

I say:

• For me, Canada is the best country in the world.
• Canada is big and strong.  It has vast stretches of empty land that is absolutely breath taking with beautiful greenery. It is blessed with plenty – natural resources:  timber, wheat, oil, cattle, coal and water (electricity).   Its large economy provides opportunity for its inhabitants. Its trade with the United States is important.  It has brave soldiers in its defense force – they strive for peace not war.  (The United States is probably the most powerful country in the world.  Canada benefits from being its ally and neighbor.  To a certain extent, this makes me feel safe. I admire the United States.)
• Canada is a place where life is good. I see it as going at a pace that is fast, but still better than that of others. Canada is warm and fuzzy. – it is known to be very generous. Canada has many social programs to take care of people who are less fortunate. Canada is genuinely friendly, multicultural. I am happy to live in Canada.

The Point

For me, patriotism and nationalism are good and a positive!  Everyone should have pride in country and self. Celebrate what has been accomplished to date; and strive to do better in the future.

ANTOINETTE’S TIP SHEET*
I encourage everyone to:
1. Be proud of your country: its past, culture and heritage and your people: their good character and generosity;
2. Be aware of your country’s high points like natural resources and also, for balance, areas in need of improvement;
3. Become knowledgeable about the surrounding countries and the rest of the world;
4. Teach the children everywhere about the ideals of humanity, the values of respect and dignity and also that we are each our brother’s keeper;
5. Celebrate your national day with gusto;
6. Make the world a better place for all of mankind!

To all of you … Happy National Day … With love from Canada.

Take it out for a spin and tell me if you agree.

And that’s my thought of the week on books, what’s yours? *

Take it out for a spin and tell me if you agree.
ALP
“Books are life; and they make life better!*”
P.S. Big News: There are big changes coming to my blog – Please stay tuned.
P.P.S. #1 I have a TWITTER page. Consider becoming a follower? Visit www.twitter.com –   saveandread
P.P.S. #2 I also have a FACEBOOK page. Consider becoming a friend? Visit:www.facebook.com – Alp Save Andread – please check it out.
P.P.S. #3 I am on Linkedin. Consider becoming a connection? Visit  www.linkedin.com – Antoinette La Posta
*TM/© 2012 Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved.
===============================================================

ANNEX I: NEED SOMETHING FURTHER? TRY AN ANECDOTE OR A QUOTE:

S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTE #1: Paul Martin & Wyndham Lewis
“The painter, novelist and polemicist [Wyndham Lewis] was born in Canada (aboard his father’s yacht in the Bay of Fundy) and served as a Canadian war artist in the First World War. During the Second World War, the same trick of nationality allowed him to remain in Canada, where he endured considerable poverty while earning the emnity of the few people who tried to help him. 

“When Lewis was living in Windsor, for example, he sought the services of Paul Martin, the politician, in collecting a payment he was owed for a painting. Lewis suggested that he undertake a portrait of Mrs Nell Martin in lieu of legal fees, and her husband agreed.

“The painter and the sitter quarreled, however, particularly over the former’s extreme right-wing political views and vitriolic denunciations of Canada and its inhabitants. Martin recalls him as “a very odd fellow, coming to the house every day but keeping on his galoshes, overcoat and hat while he sketched.

“Martin, who didn’t care for the completed picture, was unaware that in his absence Mrs Martin had agreed to renegotiate the fee to the advantage of Lewis – who then demanded another increase, without which he refused to sign the painting.

“In the Illness of time, Martin has written, ‘the portrait has grown on me … It is still unsigned.”  (Source: Anecdotage) – http://www.anecdotage.com/index.php?aid=2232)

S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTE #2: AEF
“On July 4th, 1917, the American Expeditionary Forces (AEF), having arrived in Europe to join their European allies in World War I, sent a contingent to visit the great Lafayette’s grave in Paris. Colonel Charles Stanton was asked by General Pershing to deliver an address on behalf of the AEF. His speech, in its entirety, is reproduced below: “Lafayette, we are here!” (Source: Anecdotage) – http://www.anecdotage.com/index.php?aid=4348)

S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTE #3: Brian Williams: July 4th Fireworks
Every year on the 4th of July, “NBC Nightly News” anchor Brian Williams and his family put on an impressive pyrotechnics display. “We probably set some stuff off that we shouldn’t,” he once confessed. A former firefighter, Williams was well aware of the risks. Indeed, he once recalled a Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) film about fireworks. “They showed what an M80 can do to a watermelon. They showed what a sparkler can do a girl’s cotton dress, and as a result I don’t wear those on the 4th of July.”(Source: Anecdotage) – http://www.anecdotage.com/index.php?aid=21582)

S & R* QUOTE #1: Martin Luther King, Jr.

“Change does not roll in on the wheels of inevitability, but comes through continuous struggle. And so we must straighten our backs and work for our freedom. A man can’t ride you unless your back is bent.”  (Source: Wisdom Quotes) – http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/changegrowth/)

S & R* QUOTE #2: John F. Kennedy

“The only reason to give a speech is to change the world.” (Source: Wisdom Quotes) –   http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/changegrowth/index3.html)

S & R* QUOTE #3: Benjamin Franklin

“Without continual growth and progress, such words as improvement, achievement, and success have no meaning.”  (Source: Wisdom Quotes) – http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/changegrowth/index3.html)

ANNEX II
SCHEDULE I“IT WORDS FOR ME!*”
For today, my word/phrase(s) are: “Canada’s Day”; “Fourth of July”; “Nationalism”, “Patriotism”,  “Natural Resources”; etc.

Canada’s Day
“Canada Day (French: Fête du Canada), formerly Dominion Day (French: Le Jour de la Confédération), is the national day of Canada, a federal statutory holiday celebrating the anniversary of the July 1, 1867, enactment of the British North America Act (today called the Constitution Act, 1867), which united three British colonies into a single country, called Canada, within the British Empire.[1][2][3] Originally called Dominion Day, the name was changed in 1982, the year that Canada gained full independence from the United Kingdom. Canada Day observances take place throughout Canada as well as internationally.”
(Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canada_Day

Fourth of July
“Independence Day, commonly known as the Fourth of July, is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, declaring independence from the Kingdom of Great Britain. Independence Day is commonly associated with fireworks, parades, barbecues, carnivals, fairs, picnics, concerts, baseball games, family reunions, political speeches and ceremonies, and various other public and private events celebrating the history, government, and traditions of the United States. Independence Day is the national day of the United States.[1][2][3]”
(Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia) –http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Independence_Day_(United_States)

Nationalism
“Nationalism is a political ideology that involves a strong identification of a group of individuals with a political entity defined in national terms, i.e. a nation. In the ‘modernist’ image of the nation, it is nationalism that creates national identity.[1] There are various definitions for what constitutes a nation, however, which leads to several different strands of nationalism. It can be a belief that citizenship in a state should be limited to one ethnic, cultural or identity group, or that multi nationality in a single state should necessarily comprise the right to express and exercise national identity even by minorities.[2]

It can also include the belief that the state is of primary importance, or the belief that one state is naturally superior to all other states.[3][4] It is also used to describe a movement to establish or protect a ‘homeland’ (usually an autonomous state) for an ethnic group. In some cases the identification of a national culture is combined with a negative view of other races or cultures.[5]”
(Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nationalism

Patriotism
“Excluding differences caused by the dependencies of the term’s meaning upon context, geography and philosophy, patriotism is a devotion to one’s country. In a generalized sense applicable to all countries and peoples, patriotism is a devotion to one’s country for no other reason than being a citizen of that country.

It is a related sentiment to nationalism, but nationalism is not necessarily an inherent part of patriotism.[1][2][3]

The English term patriot is first attested in the Elizabethan era, via Middle French from Late Latin (6th century) patriota “fellow countryman”, ultimately from Greek πατριώτης (patriōtēs) “fellow countryman”, from πατρίς, “fatherland”.[4] The abstract noun patriotism appears in the early 18th century.[5]”
(Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patriotism

Natural Resources
“Natural resources occur naturally within environments that exist relatively undisturbed by mankind, in a natural form. A natural resource is often characterized by amounts of biodiversity and geodiversity existent in various ecosystems. Natural resources are derived from the environment. Many of them are essential for our survival while others are used for satisfying our wants. Natural resources may be further classified in different ways.”(Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia) –http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Natural_resource

SCHEDULE II
STUDY/STATISTICS: The Fourth of July 2011
“On this day in 1776, the Declaration of Independence was approved by the Continental Congress, setting the 13 colonies on the road to freedom as a sovereign nation. As always, this most American of holidays will be marked by parades, fireworks and backyard barbecues across the country.
2.5 million
In July 1776, the estimated number of people living in the newly independent nation.
Source: Historical Statistics of the United States: Colonial Times to 1970
<http://www.census.gov/prod/www/abs/statab.html>
311.7 million
The nation’s estimated population on this July Fourth.
Source: Population clock <http://www.census.gov/main/www/popclock.html>
Flags
$3.2 million
In 2010, the dollar value of U.S. imports of American flags. The vast majority of this amount
($2.8 million) was for U.S. flags made in China.
Source: Foreign Trade Statistics <http://www.census.gov/foreign-trade/www/> <http://www.usatradeonline.gov>
$486,026
Dollar value of U.S. flags exported in 2010. Mexico was the leading customer, purchasing
$256,407 worth. Source: Foreign Trade Statistics <http://www.census.gov/foreign-trade/www/><http://www.usatradeonline.gov>
$302.7 million
Annual dollar value of shipments of fabricated flags, banners and similar emblems by the nation’s manufacturers, according to the latest published economic census data.
Source: 2007 Economic Census, Series EC.0731SP1, Products and Services Code 3149998231 <http://www.census.gov/econ/census07/>” (Source: U.S. Census Bureau) – http://www.census.gov/newsroom/releases/pdf/cb11-ff13_july4th.pdf
“On July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was approved by the Continental Congress, setting the 13 colonies on the road to freedom as a sovereign nation. In July 1776, the estimated number of people living in the newly independent nation was 2.5 million. (Source: Historical Statistics of the United States: Colonial Times to 1970). Since then, the population of the United States has grown to over 311 million (estimated population on this July Fourth). Many US residents celebrate the Fourth of July with parades, fireworks and backyard barbecues with friends and relatives. In fact, 81 million Americans reported taking part in a barbecue last year (Source: Statistical Abstract of the United States: 2011).”
Source: U.S. Census – stats – http://blogs.census.gov/censusblog/population/

“The Canada 2006 Census counted a total population of 31,612,897, an increase of 5.4 percent since 2001.[152] Population growth is from immigration and, to a lesser extent, natural growth. About four-fifths of Canada’s population lives within 150 kilometres (93 mi) of the United States border.[153] A similar proportion live in urban areas concentrated in the Quebec City – Windsor Corridor, the BC Lower Mainland, and the Calgary–Edmonton Corridor in Alberta.[154] In common with many other developed countries, Canada is experiencing a demographic shift towards an older population, with more retirees and fewer people of working age. In 2006, the average age of the population was 39.5 years.”

Name   Province                                           Pop.
Toronto Ontario                                         5,113,149
Kitchener – Waterloo Ontario                        451,235
Montreal Quebec                                       3,635,571
St. Catharines–Niagara Ontario                     390,317
Vancouver British Columbia                        2,116,581
Halifax Nova Scotia                                      372,858
Ottawa–Gatineau Ontario–Quebec              1,130,761
Oshawa Ontario                                           330,594
Calgary Alberta                                         1,079,310
Victoria British Columbia                              330,088
Edmonton Alberta                                     1,034,945
Windsor Ontario                                           323,342
Quebec City Quebec                                    715,515
Saskatoon Saskatchewan                             233,923
Winnipeg Manitoba                                       694,898
Regina Saskatchewan                                  194,971
Hamilton Ontario                                          692,911
Sherbrooke Quebec                                     186,952
London Ontario                                            457,720
St. John’s Newfoundland and Labrador           181,113 ”

(Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) –  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canada

“Canada’s two official languages are English and French. Official bilingualism is defined in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, the Official Languages Act, and Official Language Regulations; it is applied by the Commissioner of Official Languages. English and French have equal status in federal courts, Parliament, and in all federal institutions. Citizens have the right, where there is sufficient demand, to receive federal government services in either English or French, and official-language minorities are guaranteed their own schools in all provinces and territories.[172]”
(Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canada

SCHEDULE III
S & R* NEWS ALERT* #1: Generosity is what it means to be Canadian

“When you think of adjectives to describe what Canadians are like, you might come up with words like: humourous, passive, polite, friendly, or bland.

Whether any of that is true, one trait we can take pride in is our generosity. According to the World Giving Index, Canada is the third most generous country in the world out of 153 countries. Canadians donate both of their money and their time, contributing thousands of volunteer hours to help those in need. It is evident that we have impacted millions of lives around the world.

On July 1st, show your Canadian spirit with these activities that help others:

Visit a retirement centre. Get a group of friends together and put on a show. If you can juggle, sing, dance, or make people laugh, use your skill to brighten someone else’s day. Even if you don’t know anyone in particular at the centre, the time you sacrificed to pay a visit will speak volumes to the elderly.

Host a neighbourhood potluck. Swap food, stories, and experiences as you get to know the people and needs in your immediate community.

Serve at a soup kitchen or food bank. Soup kitchens and food banks often have a rush of volunteers at Thanksgiving and Christmas, but Canada Day usually isn’t very popular. Don the apron and plastic gloves, leave the diva attitude at the door, and help alleviate hunger this summer.

Think beyond our country. Extreme poverty claims the lives of millions of children and families around the world. Basic essentials like clean water, food, and shelter that we take for granted in Canada are in short supply in developing countries. International children’s charities like Christian Children’s Fund of Canada work in communities to build schools, wells, and health clinics helping the most vulnerable victims of poverty. You can get involved by purchasing life-saving items through the charity’s gift catalogue www.ccfcanada.ca/Gifts. Show victims of poverty that Canadians care.” www.newscanada.com

S & R* NEWS ALERT* #2: Bake a patriotic pie for Canada Day “Recipe Box:

Pie is a classic dessert serving many traditions all across our country, so why not charm your Canada Day guests with a tribute treat? Serve them a red-and-white cheesecake pie.

In this recipe adorned with a red-berry maple leaf the abundance of seasonal fruit ingredients make it easy to be appreciative of our fertile landscapes. You will also see the trade secrets of corn quality Fleischmann’s corn starch and flavourful Crown corn syrup all of which promise a great taste treat:

Summer Berry Cheesecake Pie

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Bake Time: 30 to 35 minutes

Chill Time: 4 hours

Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

Crust:

1-1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs

1/3 cup butter, melted

1/4 cup finely chopped nuts

Cheesecake:

1/3 cup butter

2 packages (250mL each) cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup brown sugar

4 teaspoons Fleischmann’s Canada Corn Starch

1/2 cup Crown Lily White Corn Syrup

2 eggs

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1 cup (250mL) sour cream

2 tablespoons sugar

Fresh berries for garnish

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F/180°C.

For Crust: Combine all crust ingredients in a medium bowl. Firmly press onto the bottom and up sides of a 9-inch/23cm pie plate. Bake 8 minutes. Cool on wire rack.

For Cheesecake: Cook 1/3 cup butter in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, until butter turns the color of light brown sugar, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat. Beat cream cheese, brown sugar and corn starch in a large bowl with an electric mixer until smooth. Beat in corn syrup, eggs and vanilla. Carefully pour browned butter into cream cheese mixture. Stir until blended. Pour into prepared crust.

Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until center is almost set. Combine sour cream and sugar. Spread over hot cheesecake. Cool completely on wire rack. Cover and chill at least 4 hours. To serve, garnish with fresh berries.

Optional Serving Suggestion: Drizzle each slice with a Raspberry Sauce. To make a Raspberry Sauce, mash 1/2 cup raspberries; stir in 2 tablespoons corn syrup. Cover and chill until ready to serve. For more tasty pie recipes, visit www.achfood.ca” www.newscanada.com

*TM/© 2012 Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved

FATHER’S DAY: I LOVE YOU DAD, YESTERDAY, TODAY AND FOREVER!*” – UPDATE 2013

Vol. 4, No. 12, Monday, June 17, 2013

TITLE: “FATHER’S DAY: I love you Dad, yesterday, today and forever!* – UPDATE 2013”

INTRODUCTION

Now that Father’s Day is approaching, I am thinking about my Dad. My book of the week is: “A Father’s Day Thank You” by Janet Nolan. Hence my topic of the week is this special day.

ANTOINETTE’S LIFE & TIMES*

Father’s Day was special for my family.  My mother taught my brothers and me that this was the day to show our respect and love for our Dad. (She was a great example as she in turn, showed her loving respect for her father on this day.)  We always celebrated Father’s Day.  My mother would make a special lunch and bake one of our favorite cakes.  My brothers and I would buy gifts. While he didn’t expect anything, Dad’s reaction was always a combination of pleasant surprise, gratitude and appreciation.

My Dad was a very special person and a wonderful father.  His wife and children were his priority.  He was a VERY hard worker and a great provider – his aim was to ensure that we had all the opportunity that life had to offer. He encouraged us to love knowledge and be curious. He said that it was important to have goals. He showed by example: “Work hard and do your best”!. He taught us to strive to better ourselves: 1) Get an education; 2) Get a job and excel and build a career; 3) Buy and own real estate; 4) Save for a better life.  He also taught us to have fun and balance in our lives.

UPDATE 2013

Another Father’s Day is here.  I will again go to the cemetery to pay my respects.  I think of him often. I know that I was extremely fortunate to have a Dad like him. An incident that sticks in my mind that describes how selfless he really was.  One day before his death, I went to visit my Dad in the hospital.  On seeing me entering his room, he told me not to miss work in order to visit him.  His concern was that I may lose my job. Although very sick and needing his family, he was always thinking of others.

Update 2012

It has been 6 years since my Dad passed away and I still miss him terribly.  He truly was a special Dad. This coming Father’s Day, I plan to go to the cemetery to pay my respects. You see, I’ll ALWAYS be there for my Dad.  While my mother was alive, she would come with me.  Since this is the first time I am without my late Mother on this day, it is especially hard. Of course, I will also pay my respects to my Mom.  I carry them both deep in my heart.

THE AUTHOR: Janet Nolan

Nolan is a children’s picture book author. She likes what she does. She says that she came upon it unexpectedly She is creative. She likes conceiving of and developing characters, backgrounds and story lines.

She graduated with a B.A. from Evergreen State College in Olympia, Washington, and a master’s degree in Urban Planning and Policy from the University of Illinois at Chicago. She currently is the Program Co-Chair for the Illinois chapter of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI). She lives in Oak Park, Illinois.
(Source: http://www.janetnolan.com/cv.html)

THE ILLUSTRATOR: Kathi Ember

Ember lives on a Pennsylvania farm. She loves animals, knowing them first hand. They are the subject of her art. Examples can be found in greeting cards, puzzles, wallpaper to name a few.  In “A Father’s Day Thank You” by Janet Nolan, she uses her gift to create charming cub like adorables. They are perfect with Nolan’s prose. They do the trick!
(Source: http://www.mbartists.com/cgi-bin/iowa/artists.html?artist=63)

SERIES/COLLECTION
Books

Nolan is the author of:

• The Firehouse Light
• A Father’s Day Thank You
• The St. Patrick’s Day Shillelagh

BOOK: A Father’s Day Thank You by Janet Nolan

Father’s Day is the occasion. Harvey is one of three children (cubs). There is a question about the right gift for Dad on Father’s Day. In years gone by, they bought the same gift (e.g., ties, a box of nails, golf balls, etc.) and he always loves it … repeatedly asking for more.  This year he decides upon the perfect gift. Recognizing everything his father does: helping him after a fall, flat tire on his bike, reading a bedtime story, etc. Dad is handy in the kitchen – he knows how to cook breakfast; etc.  Putting crayon to paper is the priceless gift appropriate for the special father that he has. One of the visual images- the color is striking,   (Illustration by Ms Ember), shows the scene of a father at a desklike table and mother figure entering the room with a gift wrapped present. There is a dog wagging his table to add to the tranquility of the scene.

The message is right. Being in a family with a Dad is good. Being a Dad that is loving is great!
It’s not only about the gift to buy, but also what you can make. The thought is most important. Saying thank you on Father’s Day is very good!

While the book’s level  is PreSchool-Grade 2, the sweetness and innocence is also enchanting for adults reading the story to their offspring.

CONCLUSION

One of our commandments is:  “Honor your father and your mother”.   It’s important to make a big deal over your father on this day.  It’s when one can officially pay respect to Dad.  With our busy schedules, we sometimes forget to express how we feel and sometimes we take things for granted.  It’s the day when we can say, “Dad, you are special and I appreciate everything you do for me.”

Personal comments

I say:

That taking the time to celebrate your father is good. His main concern is to do right for his family.

• That you should: (a)  Know that you are lucky to have him; (b) Recognize all that he does, from things small all the way to big, all great and wonderful nonetheless; (c) Give thanks for the blessing.

The point

This is the day for father. Every other is your day at his hand.  Like your Dad, my Dad deserved and continues to deserve to be respected on this special day. It has been five years since he passed away and every Father’s Day, I light a candle in his honor.  Seize the moment and give tribute to your father.

ANTOINETTE’S TIP SHEET*

Everyone should:

1. Make Father’s day a special day for your Dad;
2. Go with Dad and play one of his favorite activities like golf;
3. Put some thought in the gift that you will buy;
4. Tell your Dad how much you care and appreciate him;
5. Don’t wait for this day; but instead,
5.1 Pay your respects each and every day;
5,2 Visit your Dad often;
6. Make Father’s day a holiday to enjoy and spend quality time with him;
7. Mark the day if he has passed on by
7.1 Wearing the tie belonging to him in your closet, regardless if it’s the green one for St Patrick’s Day;
7.2 Smelling the pungent aroma from a bottle of the after shave that he used to use;
7.3 Playing with one of his golf balls displayed yearlong in your glass bowl; and
7.4  Recall your wonderful memories.

This Father’s day, I plan to remember the days gone by, smiling but sad at the same time, and while gazing at the candle flickering.I will raise my glass, and say: Salut!

Take it out for a spin and tell me if you agree.

And that’s my thought of the week on books, what’s yours? *
ALP
“Books are life; and they make life better!*”

PREVIEW (tentatively scheduled for Tuesday, June 24th, 2013): I’m moving. Since I’m relocating my household furniture, I’m also redecorating. You know what they say. You learn by doing. I knew a lot before, but I’m now learning more. Next week, I’ll share with you some of my thoughts and lessons learned. Oh by the way, if you do come by, bring some cardboard boxes. I still need more.  (Editor’s Note: This is another post in a continuing series on home and garden .)

CREDITS
-Web Tech:  richmediasound.com

The above is a new media production of Valente under its “United Author*” program.

P.S. Big News: There are big changes coming to my blog – Please stay tuned.
P.P.S. #1 I have a TWITTER page. Consider becoming a follower? Visit www.twitter.com –   saveandread
P.P.S. #2 I also have a FACEBOOK page. Consider becoming a friend? Visit: www.facebook.com – Alp Save Andread – please check it out.
P.P.S. #3 I am on Linkedin. Consider becoming a connection? Visit  www.linkedin.com – Antoinette La Posta
*TM/© 2011, 2012, 2013, Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved.
===============================================================

PAGE 2

NEED SOMETHING FURTHER? TRY SAVE AND READ* (S&R*) .

ONE –A –S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTE*” – ANECDOTES

S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTE #1: Father’s Day Gift
“As part of a Father’s Day gift in June 2001, Sharon Stone and her husband, San Francisco Chronicle editor Phil Bronstein, visited a Komodo dragon at the Los Angeles Zoo. Lest the Komodo mistake his foot for a mouse, Bronstein was advised to remove his white sneakers. No sooner had he doffed his protective footwear than the Komodo bit him on the toe. “He was so brave,” Stone later declared. “In the 21st century, a woman doesn’t often see her knight fight off a real dragon!” (Source: www.anecdotage.com) –  http://www.anecdotage.com/index.php?aid=14778

S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTE #2:Robin Williams: Box Office Poison
“At the 2005 Golden Globe Awards, Robin Williams was apporoached by “Extra” host Mark McGrath. “We did a movie back in ‘95 together,” McGrath remarked. “It was called Father’s Day.” “I remember now,” Williams said with a nod. “My phone hasn’t rung,” said McGrath. Robin’s reply? “Neither has mine!” (Source: www.anecdotage.com) –  http://www.anecdotage.com/index.php?aid=21377

ONE –B “I SHOULD HAVE SAID THAT!*” – QUOTES
S & R* QUOTE (DOUBLE) QUOTE #1: William Shakespeare

• “It is a wise father that knows his own child.”
• “When a father gives to his son, both laugh; when a son gives to his father, both cry.”
  (Source: Wisdom Quotes) –  http://www.brainyquote.com/specials/fathers_day/fathers_day_quotes.html

S & R* QUOTE #2: John F. Kennedy
“My father always told me that all businessmen were sons of bitches, but I never believed it till now.” Source: Wisdom Quotes) – http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/father.html

S & R* QUOTE #3: Sigmund Freud
“I cannot think of any need in childhood as strong as the need for a father’s protection.”
(Source: Wisdom Quotes) – http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/father.htm

TWO – “IT WORDS FOR ME!*”

“IT WORDS FOR ME!*”
For today, my word/phrase(s) are: “Father’s Day”; etc.
“Father’s Day”
“Father’s Day is a celebration honoring fathers and celebrating fatherhood, paternal bonds, and the influence of fathers in society. It is celebrated on the third Sunday of June in many countries and on other days elsewhere. It complements Mother’s Day, the celebration honoring mothers.”
(Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia) –  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Father’s_Day

S & R* BONUS FACT * #1: Father’s day
“Father’s Day is a celebration of fathers inaugurated in the early twentieth century to complement Mother’s Day in celebrating fatherhood and male parenting. It is also celebrated to honor and commemorate our forefathers[citation needed]. Father’s Day is celebrated on a variety of dates worldwide and typically involves gift-giving, special dinners to fathers, and family-oriented activities. Long before any modern observances, a young Babylonian named Elmesu wished his father good health and a long life on a clay tablet. The Catholic
observance was originally on March 19, St. Joseph’s Day. On June 19, 1910, an independently-invented Father’s Day observance was celebrated through the efforts of Sonora Smart Dodd of Spokane, Washington. After listening to a church sermon at Spokane’s Central Methodist Episcopal Church in 1909 about the newly recognized Mother’s Day, Dodd felt strongly that fatherhood needed recognition, as well.[1] She wanted a celebration that honored fathers like her own father, William Smart, a Civil War veteran who was left to raise his family alone when his wife died giving birth to their sixth child when Sonora was 16 years old.[2]The following year with the assistance of Reverend Dr. Conrad Bluhm, her pastor at Old Centenary Presbyterian Church (now Knox Presbyterian Church), Sonora took the idea to the Spokane YMCA. The Spokane YMCA, along with the Ministerial Alliance, endorsed Dodd’s idea and helped it spread by celebrating the first Father’s Day in 1910. Sonora suggested her father’s birthday, June 5, be established as the day to honor all Fathers. However, the pastors wanted more time to prepare, so on June 19, 1910, young members of the YMCA went to church wearing roses: a red rose to honor a living father, and a white rose to honor a deceased one.[2] Dodd traveled through the city in a horse-drawn carriage, carrying gifts to shut-in fathers confined indoors by illness.[2] It took many years to make the holiday official. In spite of support from the YWCA, the YMCA, and churches, Father’s Day ran the risk of disappearing from the calendar.[3] Where Mother’s Day was met with enthusiasm, Father’s Day was often met with laughter.[3] The holiday was gathering attention slowly, but for the wrong reasons. It was the target of much satire, parody and derision, including jokes from the local newspaper Spokesman-Review.[3] Many people saw it as the first step in filling the calendar with mindless promotions.[3] A bill to accord national recognition of the holiday was introduced in Congress in 1913.[4] In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson went to Spokane to speak in a Father’s Day celebration and wanted to make it official, but Congress resisted, fearing that it would become commercialized.[2] US President Calvin Coolidge recommended in 1924 that the day be observed by the nation, but stopped short of issuing a national proclamation. Two earlier attempts to formally recognize the holiday had been defeated by Congress.[5] In 1957, Maine Senator Margaret Chase Smith wrote a proposal accusing Congress of ignoring fathers for 40 years while honoring mothers, thus “[singling] out just one of our two parents”[5] In 1966, President Lyndon B. Johnson issued the first presidential proclamation honoring fathers, designating the third Sunday in June as Father’s Day.[2] Six years later, the day was made a permanent national holiday when President Richard Nixon signed it into law in 1972.[2][5]In 2010, the Father’s Day Centennial Celebration[6] occurs in Spokane with a month of events commemorating the day. In addition to Father’s Day, International Men’s Day is celebrated in many countries on November 19 for men and boys who are not fathers.”
(Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Father’s_Day

S & R* BONUS FACT #2: Observance of Father’s day

“Contrary to popular belief, the first observance of Father’s Day actually took place in Fairmont, West Virginia on July 5, 1908. It was organized by Mrs. Grace Golden Clayton, who wanted to celebrate the lives of the 210 fathers who had been lost in the Monongah Mining disaster several months earlier in Monongah, West Virginia, on December 6, 1907. It’s possible that Clayton was influenced by the first celebration of Mother’s Day that same year, just a few miles away. Clayton chose the Sunday nearest to the birthday of her recently deceased father. Unfortunately, the day was overshadowed by other events in the city, West Virginia did not officially register the holiday, and it was not celebrated again. All the credit for Father’s Day went to Sonora Dodd, who invented independently her own celebration of Father’s Day just two years later, also influenced by Jarvis’ Mother’s Day.Clayton’s celebration was forgotten until 1972, when one of the attendants to the celebration saw Nixon’s proclamation of Father’s Day, and worked to recover its legacy. The celebration is now held every year in the Central United Methodist Church — the Williams Memorial Methodist Episcopal Church, South, was torn down in 1922. Fairmont is now promoted as the “Home of the First Father’s Day Service”.[7]”
(Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Father’s_Day

THREE– STUDY/STATISTICS:

STUDY/STATISTICS: Father’s Day: June 19, 2011
“The idea of Father’s Day was conceived slightly more than a century ago by Sonora Dodd of Spokane, Wash., while she listened to a Mother’s Day sermon in 1909. Dodd wanted a special day to honor her father, William Smart, a widowed Civil War veteran who was left to raise his six children on a farm. A day in June was chosen for the first Father’s Day celebration — 101 years ago, June 19, 1910, proclaimed by Spokane’s mayor because it was the month of Smart’s birth. The first presidential proclamation honoring fathers was issued in 1966 when President Lyndon Johnson designated the third Sunday in June as Father’s Day. Father’s Day has been celebrated annually since 1972 when President Richard Nixon signed the public law that made it permanent.”

How Many Fathers?

70.1 million
Estimated number of fathers across the nation.
Source: Unpublished data from the Survey of Income and Program Participation

25.3 million

Number of fathers who were part of married-couple families with children younger than 18 in 2010.
•22 percent were raising three or more children younger than 18 (among married-couple family households only).
•3 percent lived in someone else’s home.
Source: America’s Families and Living Arrangements  http://www.census.gov/population/www/socdemo/hh-fam.html>

1.8 million
Number of single fathers in 2010; 15 percent of single parents were men.
•Nine percent were raising three or more children younger than 18.
•About 46 percent were divorced, 30 percent were never married, 19 percent were separated, and 6 percent were widowed.
•39 percent had an annual family income of $50,000 or more.
Source: America’s Families and Living Arrangements
<http://www.census.gov/population/www/socdemo/hh-fam.html>
U.S. Census – stats –
http://www.census.gov/newsroom/releases/archives/facts_for_features_special_editions/cb11-ff11.html

FOUR – BONUS ARTICLES

S & R* NEWS ALERT* #1: What Canadians are giving for Father’s Day

“For the 42 per cent of Canadians who definitely or probably will buy a Father’s Day gift this year, the days leading up to June 19th can leave shoppers scratching their heads. For those still stumped for gift ideas, a recent survey conducted by men’s grooming brand, Gillette, sheds some light on what Canadians will be wrapping up this year. The traditional father’s day gift “ the necktie“ is always a popular choice as 42 per cent of Canadians are planning to give some sort of apparel for Father’ s Day. If you’re giving a necktie, put a modern spin on it. Says Brett Fahlgren, GQ style correspondent. A tie that has a thinner width instantly updates the classic shirt and tie look, and don’t be afraid to play with bold patterns and colours. Grooming gifts will be popular this year with 24 per cent of Canadians choosing them for Dad. One idea is to give a Gillette Fusion ProGlide gift pack. In this pack you get the ProGlide razor, Hydra Gel shave gel, and a cleanser that exfoliates and heats up on contact with water“ Gillette Fusion ProSeries Thermal Face Scrub. As other gifting holidays, tech devices are always a popular gift and 32 per cent of Canadians plan to choose one for Father’s Day. From cameras, to music players to GPS navigation systems, technology gifts offer almost limitless gift idea possibilities. No matter whether or not a Father’s Day gift is given, or how big or how small it is, the old adage remains true“ it’s the thought that counts..”www.newscanada.com

S & R* NEWS ALERT* #2: Father’s Day gifts for grandfathers By Melissa Yue
”If you think dads feel neglected after years of forgotten Father’s Day fanfare, grandfathers feel it even more. Every Mother’s Day, we lavish our mothers and grandmothers with heartfelt cards and flowers, but when Father’s Day rolls around, we hardly remember to call. Though most men will often shrug that it’s no big deal, you’ve vowed to make things better this year. Get inspired with these gift ideas:

Quality time with you. Most grandfathers would prefer spending time with their loved ones to a cheesy joke card and #1 grandpa tie. Tear out a page from your day planner and literally give your whole day to grandpa, participating in his favourite activities like fishing or birdwatching. Or buy tickets to watch a concert, movie, standup comic, or sports event together.

Donate in his honour. Show your appreciation to your grandfather and all the ways he helped to shape you into who you’ve become. Charities like Christian Children’s Fund of Canada (www.ccfcanada.ca) offer valuable gift items like fruit trees, mosquito nets, clean water wells, and business loans to help struggling families overseas. You can customize a card for your grandpa and show him how his generosity inspired you to help others.

Mp3 player. Rummage through his old vinyl records and cassette tapes and find matching mp3s to load onto a player. Then show grandpa how to use his new gadget so he can enjoy music he loves on “the“ go.

Photo gifts. Load all your favourite photos of children and grandchildren into a digital picture frame. Or frame a collage print of your favourite memories for display.

Your grandfather is probably not expecting anything from you, but a simple gift can touch his heart and will show him how much his support has meant to you.www.newscanada.com

*TM/© 2011, 2012, 2013  Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved.

Vol. 4,  No.6, May 6th, 2013
TITLE: “FOR MOTHERS’ DAY,  I SAY: GOD BLESS AND SAVE MOTHERS EVERYWHERE!*” – UPDATE 2013

INTRODUCTION

In my book, MOMS are VIPs – very important people. This is why we have Mother’s Day!. And since it’s almost here, my topic is Mothers’ Day. My book of the week is: “The Mother’s Day Companion” [Paperback] by Martin H. Rots (Author).  (Editor’s Note: This is another post in a continuing series on holidays and special dates.) 

MY LIFE & TIMES*

Today is Mothers’ Day. It brings to mind a real life family story of about eight years ago. I want to share it with you. It was Mothers’ Day and my daughters invited my Mom and me for supper at a restaurant.  When my mother got the invitation, she asked if my father was invited as well. My daughters replied that it would only be the girls.  When we arrived at the restaurant, my daughter’s fiancée greeted us at the door and led us to the table.  There, his parents, brother and grandmother were seated, chatting and drinking wine.  We sat down and joined the conversation.  My mother was very quiet the entire evening.  When I drove her home, she asked me why the men were there when she was told it was only for the girls.  I explained that a possible reason was because of their mothers.  The next day, I went to visit my parents.  My mother didn’t waste any time before she told me that the next time she would be invited, she would not accept the invitation unless my father was also invited.  She continued to explain that she was sad because she had to leave my father behind. Not only did he have to take his dinner by himself, but he also spent the entire evening alone.  My first thought was WOW – this is a successful marriage.  Unfortunately, my father passed away the following year and there wasn’t an opportunity to do another Mothers’ Day evening dinner, this time inviting my Dad as well. As a result, this story is bitter sweet for me.

Mothers’ Day 2011 started with my visiting a greeting card store earlier in the week.  I found a perfect card – I always look for one that is sentimental.  

Today, I celebrated the day. I also want to share some of the moments and the sentiments.
In the morning, we finished noting our personal wishes on my mother’s card. I went to church and the priest talked about mothers; he said that mothers are very important and he spoke about the Blessed Virgin Mary – she played a major role in the life of Jesus.

We were invited for lunch at the home of my eldest daughter.  A few months ago, she gave birth to her second child. She is a wonderful wife. She is a terrific Mom. She gives those kids 100 percent – her priority is her family. She wants the best for her children. She protects them. For example, she considers what they eat and what they watch on television. She is a GREAT Mom!

We were on time. Both my daughters greeted us. (By the way, my youngest daughter is sooooooooooooooo maternal – she is going to be a great Mom as well!) I was handed a card with beautiful words, a bouquet of yellow roses and also a gift. What a wonderful gesture! We sat down to a tasty BBQ lunch along with my son-in-law’s mother and  father also his brother and sister-in -law. More flowers and gifts were exchanged. My daughter – the hostess baked a cake from scratch. It was a vanilla cake with lemon creme and coconut. It got rave reviews. As a mother, I felt extremely proud.

At mid- afternoon, I went to visit my mother. I had already delivered a chocolate Black Forest type cake the day before. I gave her the card along with a gift. She was appreciative of everything especially the visit. The cake was taken out- it was a great hit. So you see, we were very caked out!

Mother’s Day Update 2013

I’m thinking about this year’s Mother’s Day, which is nearly here. Honestly, it’s bitter sweet.

My Mother: On one hand, it’s a day of sadness as I lost my Mom a few years ago. You see my Mom was my best friend. She was my No. 1 advisor. (Oh by the way, she was also my top source of family gossip – She kept me up to date with the comings and goings of relatives. This is the way I used to stay connected.) I miss her terribly. She was also the core of the family … the glue …she brought us all together. Since her passing, my siblings and I enjoy some happy times together, but, it’s not the same.

Personal story: On Mother’s Day in years past, when I attended church, I saw several older women weeping. I then still had my Mom. I did not really understand since their mothers had died long time ago. Now that my Mother has passed, I understand more. You never get used to the passing of your Mom – it’s such a loss.

Motherhood: On the other hand, it’s a happy day. I’m a mother and I’m so proud of my daughters. They have grown up to become fine young women. I so enjoy their visit on this occasion.

Grand motherhood: Now that I’m a “Nonna,” I also have great pleasure spending time with my darling grand kids. They’re such bundles of joy!

THE AUTHOR: Martin H. Rots 

Martin H. Rots (he goes by Marty) is a musician, author and blogger. He has a large collection of classic rock biographies. He founded Classic Rock Esoterica www.classicrockesoterica.com– it celebrates the  golden Rock Era of the sixties. For him, it starts with the arrival of the Beatles in America in February 1964 all the way to Woodstock in 1969. This website celebrates the music and the sub-culture.  He fondly remembers and treasures the youthful times growing up during those years.  He is a sensitive man. I like his tone.   
(Fact source: http://www.classicrockesoterica.com/Classic_Rock_Esoterica.html

SERIES/COLLECTION
Martin H Rots has written numerous blog posts. Check out http://blog.classicrockesoterica.com/ 

Books
Two books by Marty Rots are:
* The Woodstock Conspiracy
* The Mother’s Day Companion 

THE BOOK: The Mother’s Day Companion [Paperback] by Martin H. Rots (Author)

The Mother’s Day Companion is about …you guessed it – mothers. The author knows of whom he speaks. There is humour, sweetness and light. There is also dramatic tension from real life. It is like a encyclopedia of mothers, a variety of examples of motherhood. There are short profiles and stories about mothers, real and fictional.  The book is a balance of biographical extracts of notable women such as Rose Kennedy, Madonna and Hilary Clinton to name a few. Showing his age, he also writes about TV characters such as Harriet Nelson, June Cleaver,  Marie Cunningham and and Wilma Flintstone. He goes more current with Claire Huxtable and Peg Bundy. I admit that it is not a major work; but it is fun. Indeed, it is a great gift item. It will warm the hearts of mothers, particularly those in North America.

CONCLUSION

Mothers play the key role in a family. They do much for everybody. Mothers’ Day is important. First, it follows the commandment to honour one’s mother (and father).  Second, saying thank you in a special and meaningful way is a very satisfying gesture to a mother. I know. I am one.     

My personal comments

I want to remind you that you will not have your mother forever. You will then miss her dearly. Live the moments that you now can share. You will cherish the memories long afterwards.

The point

Being nice to your mother is good. Do it!

ANTOINETTE’S TIP SHEET*
When it comes to your mother, everyone should: 
1. Think about her personality, qualities, unselfish acts, etc.; 
2. Be considerate of your mother and honour your mother today on Mothers’ Day and also everyday thereafter.

For more on mothers, and my suggested do’s and don’ts, please refer to ANTOINETTE’S TIP SHEET* at the end of the blog post entitled, “MOTHERS & DAUGHTERS – I ask: “Why the good, the bad and the ugly?” (Vol. 1,  No. 39, March 20th, 2011).

I think that it is great that Moms have their very own special day. Let’s enjoy it. We earned it! Happy Mothers Day to one and all.

Take it out for a spin and tell me if you agree.
And that’s my thought of the week on books, what’s yours? *
ALP
“Books are life; and they make life better!*”

PREVIEW (Rescheduled- Now tentatively scheduled for Monday, May 13th, 2013): POST PARTUM DEPRESSION: Since Mother’s Day will be here soon, and before getting into the mood of the festivities, I thought that I would consider  the important subject of POST PARTEM DEPRESSION. Come by – I would love to have your feedback. (Editor’s Note: This is another post in a continuing series on women’s issues)  

P.S. Big News: There are changes coming to my blog – Please stay tuned.

P.P.S. #1 I have a TWITTER page. Consider becoming a follower? Visit www.twitter.com –   saveandread
P.P.S. #2 I also have a FACEBOOK page. Consider becoming a friend? Visit: www.facebook.com – Alp Save Andread – please check it out.
P.P.S. #3 I am on Linkedin. Consider becoming a connection? Visit  www.linkedin.com – Antoinette La Posta

CREDITS

-Web Tech:  richmediasound.com

The above is a new media production of Valente under its “United Author*” program.
*TM/© 2011, 2013 Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved

——————————————————————————————————————— 

PAGE 2

NEED SOMETHING FURTHER? TRY SAVE AND READ* (S&R*) .

ONE – “I SHOULD HAVE SAID THAT!*” – QUOTES

S & R* QUOTE(S) OF THE WEEK*: Will Rogers

“Mother’s Day, it’s beautiful thought, but it’s somebody’s hurtin’ conscience that thought of the idea. It was someone who had neglected their mother for years, and then they figured out: I got to do something about Momma. And knowing Momma was that easy, they figured, “we’ll give her a day, and it will be all right with Momma.” Give her a day, and then in return Momma gives you the other 364. See?”
(Source: Wisdom Quotes) – http://www.wisdomquotes.com/quote/will-rogers-16.html

TWO – “IT WORDS FOR ME!*”
For today, my word/phrase(s) are: “Mothers`Day”.

Mothers’ Day

“The modern Mother’s Day is celebrated on various days in many parts of the world, yet most commonly in March, April, or May as a day to honor mothers and motherhood.

Celebrations of mothers and motherhood occur throughout the world; many of these can be traced back to ancient festivals, like the Greek cult to Cybele or the Roman festival of Hilaria. The modern US-celebration of Mother’s Day is not directly related to these.[1][2][3]”

(Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mother%27s_Day

Bonus fact #1: Founding of Mothers`Day

“One of the early calls to celebrate a Mother’s Day in the United States was the “Mother’s Day Proclamation” by Julia Ward Howe. Written in 1870, it was a pacifist reaction to the carnage of the American Civil War and the Franco-Prussian War. The Proclamation was tied to Howe’s feminist belief that women had a responsibility to shape their societies at the political level.

In the years after the Mother’s Day Proclamation, Ann Jarvis founded five Mothers’ Day Work Clubs to improve sanitary and health conditions. In 1907, two years after Ann Jarvis’ death, her daughter Anna Jarvis held a memorial for her mother and began a campaign to make “Mother’s Day” a recognized holiday in the US. Although she was successful in 1914, she was already disappointed with its commericalization by the 1920s.”
(Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mother%27s_Day

THREE – STUDY/STATISTICS

“How Many Mothers
85.4 million
Estimated number of mothers in the United States in 2008.
Source: Survey of Income and Program Participation, 2008 Panel Wave 2, unpublished tabulations.

How Many Children
2.6
The total fertility rate or number of births in 2008 per woman in Utah (based on current birth rates by age), which led the nation. At the other end of the spectrum is Vermont, with a total fertility rate of 1.7 births per woman.
Source: National Center for Health Statistics <http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/nvsr/nvsr59/nvsr59_01.pdf>

Moms Who’ve Recently Given Birth
4.13 million
Number of births registered in the United States in 2009. Of this number, 409,840 were to teens 15 to 19 and 7,934 to mothers 45 to 54.
Source: National Center for Health Statistics <http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/nvsr/nvsr59/nvsr59_03.pdf>

Mothers Remembered
18,509
Number of florist establishments nationwide in 2008. The 89,741 employees in floral shops across our nation will be especially busy preparing, selling and delivering floral arrangements for Mother’s Day.
Source: County Business Patterns: 2008 <http://www.census.gov/econ/cbp/>
The flowers bought for mom have a good chance of having been grown in California. Among the 15 surveyed states, California was the leading provider of cut flowers in 2009, accounting for 75 percent of domestic flower production ($269 million out of $359 million at wholesale value) in those states. (The data pertain only to operations with sales greater than or equal to $100,000.)”
Source: USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service <http://usda.mannlib.cornell.edu/MannUsda/viewDocumentInfo.do?documentID=1072>

(Souce: U.S. Census Bureau) – http://www.census.gov/newsroom/releases/archives/facts_for_features_special_editions/cb11-ff07.html

FOUR – BONUS ARTICLES

S & R* NEWS ALERT* #1:  What mothers don’t want this Mother’s Day

“(NC)—Shopping for a great Mother’s Day gift? Forget the dollar store brooch. Drop the new broom. What mothers really don’t want is a gift that lacks thought and care. According to a new Ipsos Reid poll, conducted on behalf of the Christian Children’s Fund of Canada, some of the worst gifts mothers have received for Mother’s Day include: extra–extra–large track pants, a chocolate bar and a magazine from the corner store, a vacuum cleaner attachment, gardening tools, an electric broom, a toaster, an old sewing machine, fast food delivery (fried chicken), a clock with the price tag still left on the bottom, dish cloths, a promise that was never fulfilled, an ironing board, a bad DVD, a frying pan, a soccer ball, plus–sized pajamas, a frog, and a card that said “you’re just like a mother”.

Giving a gift that helps those who are less fortunate is becoming a more popular form of gift giving and solves the problem of trying to get a perfect gift for someone who has everything they need or want. In fact, eight in ten mothers say they’d be ‘pleased’ if someone bought them a gift in their name from a charitable gift catalogue for Mother’s Day.

You can visit www.ccfcanada.ca/Gifts to purchase a gift in your mother’s name to help young girls and women in developing countries. For $25, you can give a female hygiene kit to a young girl. For $50, you can provide health education to pregnant women.

Honour mom and make a difference with a gift that really matters.” (www.newscanada.com)

S & R* NEWS ALERT* #2: Ways to make your mother smile

“(NC)—The beloved tradition of dedicating a day to officially honour mothers and grandmothers started back in May of 1908 – and the yearly tradition has gained momentum every since. Every spring now, hundreds of countries, from Canada to Kenya to Kuwait, celebrate their own version of Mother’s Day.

“We know people are eager to find meaningful ways to express their love, as well as commemorate special memories together,” said Amber Bonnell, marketing manager for Pandora Canada, a jewellery icon around the world. “We often suggest a charm bracelet for Mom, with charms specially chosen to celebrate moments from the past year, such as giving birth, buying a new house, a child’s first day of school, a graduation, a wedding, the arrival of a grandchild, and more.”

The best–selling Pandora Moments Collection offers nine styles of bracelets and includes more than 800 handcrafted charms in sterling silver, 14K gold and two–tone. In honour of mothers and mother figures everywhere – and to commemorate the 10th anniversary of its charm bracelet – Pandora offers 10 little tips to celebrate them in the most meaningful way:

10 Wonderful Ways to Charm Her

1. Make a photo collage of her favourite memories with you and your family.

2. If she’s an avid reader, start a personal tradition. At the beginning of every month send each other books you’ve just finished. Or take it a step further and start a virtual book club: buy two copies of any book and schedule a time on Skype to talk about each one.

3. If buying a gift, show some thought for her individuality. Whether it’s selecting a favourite game, or TV show on DVD, or finding just the right charm to symbolize a special moment, give something to honour her interests.

4. Assemble a basket of her favourite things to ensure rest and relaxation. You might include magazines, slippers, a scented candle or even an iPod already programmed with selections she likes.

5. Make a mosaic using some of old dishes that are chipped or cracked. It’s a great way to keep a pattern or the colour of china she loves within the house.

6. Give flowers that last. Potted blooms can be re–planted in her garden and will last through the summer. Consider colourful “floral gems” like earrings, pendants and charms as an alternative to cut flowers.

7. Prepare a home–cooked meal with an old family recipe. Scan or type up her favourite recipe cards and bind them together to make a family cookbook.

8. Plan a DIY spa day for two. Plan some “do it yourself’ pampering with natural ingredients from her kitchen. Think about inviting friends and family to join in the fun.

9. If you live close to Mom, make a standing date with her to catch up. Mark the time for dinners or movies right on her calendar.

10. If you live far away, use Skype to connect distances in a more personal way. You can share afternoon tea or chat together over lunch.” (www.newscanada.com)

*TM/© 2011,2013 Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved.

EARTH DAY EVENTS, ACTIVITIES: I have some ideas – it is a resource!* (Volume #2 – I want to save the earth!*) – UPDATE 2013

Vol. 4, No. 4, Monday, April 22^ND, 2013

TITLE: “EARTH DAY EVENTS, ACTIVITIES:  I have some ideas – it is a resource!* (Volume #2 – I want to save the earth!*”) – UPDATE 2013

INTRODUCTION

Today is April 22^nd – it’s Earth Day. I will talk about the earth and what we can do to save the planet.  This is a very important topic.  We have to take it seriously.  My book of the week is “Saving Planet Earth” [Hardcover] by Tony Juniper (Author). (Editor’s Note: This is the 2013 update of my posts of last year on the earth and wildlife, also a part of a continuing series on special dates and holidays; it’s also classified as women’s issues.) 

ANTOINETTE’S LIFE & TIMES*

To the question, “What are we doing to protect our environment?”, I answer: “It’s our duty to improve the state of our planet. The goal is to bring awareness to everyone in the world and to do everything we can to save our home – Planet Earth.” 

Turn to nature:  Every summer my parents planted a vegetable garden.  They grew tomatoes, lettuce, long string beans, parsley, basil, etc.  They insisted that home-grown vegetables tasted better and were healthier for you.  I must admit, the vegetables from their garden were delicious.  My aunt also grew her own vegetables.  It’s hard work to maintain a garden. In my old life, we always had a garden.  I’ll confess – I didn’t plant or work it much, but it was a treat to reap the crops. This year, we are planning to plant some seeds – I’ll let you know how it goes for this city girl.

Use better products: I am very careful about cleaning products. Using environmental-friendly products is advantageous health-wise and also to help the earth.

Use less: Conservation means using less of everything that we consume. In my city, there has been a lot of talk concerning the installation of meters for water consumption in areas where there are none. I already have one in my house and if I go over a certain level of water, there is a surplus charge for the excess.  This reminds me not to waste water.

Learn more: Environmental studies are now hot in schools.   The educational institute where I worked had one.  It had become a very popular program with students. 

P.S. Today is not only Earth Day- it’s also my daughter’s birthday.

UPDATE 2013

The condition of the earth continues to be a major issue.

Gardening: In a small way, I experience agriculture. Last summer, one of my friends brought me several plants (i.e., basil, parsley, mint, etc.), all planted in one big pot.  When I needed parsley, I picked it fresh. It kept producing parsley all summer long. I had the same results with the other plants. This summer, I will again grow these plants in the same pot.  It’s so easy to do and the crop is so plentiful. 

Air quality:  Being asthmatic, the air is a big concern to me.  I pay attention to the quality of the air outside and also indoors.

Healthy diet: I believe in eating healthy with a diet from all food groups.  I am very selective at the supermarket.  I look for quality at a reasonable price. 

Let’s renew our commitment to cherish nature.

THE AUTHOR: Tony Juniper

Tony Juniper, a naturalist and ornithologist, is deeply committed to the environment. He has been front and centre for more than 20 years.  Juniper is director of Friends of the Earth and vice chair of Friends of the Earth International.  He lives in England.

SERIES/COLLECTION
Books/Articles:

Several are:

• 2008 – How Many Lightbulbs Does It Take to Change a Planet 
• 2007 – Endangered Planet [Kingfisher Knowledge]
• 2007 – Saving Planet Earth
• 2007 – Saving Planet Earth What Is Destroying the Earth and What You Can Do to Help
• 2007 – How Many Lightbulbs Does It Take to Change a Planet 95 Ways to Save Planet Earth
• 2004 – Spix’s Macaw the Race to Save the World’s Rarest Bird
• 2003 – Parrots a Guide to Parrots of the World [Helm Identification Guides]
• 2003 – Spix’s Macaw the Race to Save the World’s Rarest Bird
• 2002 – Spix’s Macaw the Race to Save the World’s Rarest Bird
• 1998 – Parrots a Guide to Parrots of the World
• 1996 – Threatened Planet [Discovery S.]
• 1992 – Deserts of Trees Environmental and Social Impacts of Large-scale Tropical Reforestation in Response to Global Climate Change
• 1992 – Whose Hand on the Chainsaw

THE BOOK: “Saving Planet Earth” [Hardcover] by Tony Juniper (Author)

Juniper calls attention to the issue of the condition of the Earth. He clarifies how man is destroying the planet. There is no doubt that it is in danger and that it was caused by the actions or non-action of human beings.  We need to understand the consequences of our actions. We must figure out how we can help. We must stop doing harm and find alternatives. As well, we need to undo the damages already done.   The book illustrates advice and solutions on how to reverse dangerous trends.  This book gives us the knowledge on how to protect Earth for the next generation!

CONCLUSION:

Our planet is in danger … our planet is in danger. It’s so important that I can say it twice. We need to act now!

Personal Comments

I say:

• That according to many experts, the climate is changing. Weather has been so unpredictable all over the world.  There have been more and more storms, hurricanes, tornados, etc. 
• That global warming is a huge problem- we now know that the rate of warming is slowly increasing.  IT’S A REALITY!
• That global warming brings:
  • Rising sea levels 
  • Increase in precipitation.  Our water will probably be affected. 
  • Impact upon the Arctic;. 
• That global warming is a big threat to our planet “Earth”. It could become a disaster and destroy our world as we know it.
• That it is our moral duty to do everything we can to stop and reverse the damage to the earth. 
• That the protection of our environment is a pressing and urgent cause. We need to do it for our children, grandchildren and all those coming later – they deserve to live in a safe environment.

The Point

We need to focus on how to save our planet! We need to start the doing yesterday!

ANTOINETTE’S TIP SHEET*

Everyone should:

1. Recycle everything you can;
2. Use pesticides safely for your garden;
3. Use environmental cleaning products;
4. Dispose medication safely;
5. Use water you need only;
6. Plant a tree;
7. Grow your own vegetables or buy locally;
8. Buy energy-saving appliances;
9. Use public transportation, whenever you can, or try carpool, bike or walk;
10. Litter and I won’t be happy!
11. Reuse where you can;
12. Buy recycled products whenever possible;
13. Start a green club in your community;
14. Don’t waste energy;
15. Reduce the waste you produce.

I say: “Let’s clean up. Please pass the broom and dustpan. Can you help me?”

And that’s my thought of the week on books, what’s yours?*
Take it out for a spin and tell me if you agree.
ALP
PREVIEW (Tentatively scheduled for Monday, April 29th 2013): CHILDREN’S BIRTHDAY PARTIES – This past weekend, I enjoyed the birthday party for my grand daughter. She was so sweet and adorable. It was pure  joy. Next week, I will share some thoughts and ideas about a birthday party for kids. Come by. You don’t  need to bring a gift. But please be ready to sing! (Editor’s Note: This is another post in a continuing series on parenting .)  

“Books are life; and they make life better!*”
P.S. Big News: There are big changes coming to my blog – Please stay tuned.
P.P.S. #1 I have a TWITTER page. Consider becoming a follower? Visit www.twitter.com –   saveandread
P.P.S. #2 I also have a FACEBOOK page. Consider becoming a friend? Visit: www.facebook.com – Alp Save Andread – please check it out.
P.P.S. #3 I am on Linkedin. Consider becoming a connection? Visit  www.linkedin.com – Antoinette La Posta
*TM/© 2013, 2012 Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved.
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PAGE 2

NEED SOMETHING FURTHER? TRY SAVE AND READ* (S&R*).

ONE – . NEED SOMETHING FURTHER? TRY AN ANECDOTE OR A QUOTE:

ONE A – ANECDOTE

S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTE #1: Woody’s Neo-Hippie Hemp Crusade
“In 2002, Woody Harrelson embarked upon a 35-day, 1,000-mile bike tour from Seattle to southern California, escorted by a ‘Mothership’ (a Chicago city transit bus fueled by hemp oil and electrically powered by solar panels) to promote “simple organic living” (whereby one conserves fossil fuels, recycles, and eats organic vegetables). The outspoken vegan and hemp activist, accompanied by a dozen or so equally passionate environmentalists, kicked off the neo-Hippie crusade in mid-April with rallies at several Universities. Two days before Earth Day, some 3,000 people – some waving signs and cheering “Woody for president!” – crowded into an outdoor amphitheater on the Eugene campus of the University of Oregon to cheer him on. Among the signs on hand? EUGENE HAS A WOODY FOR HEMP!”  (Source: Anecdotage) – http://www.anecdotage.com/index.php?aid=5667)

S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTE #2:Barry Sonnenfeld’s Mother
“Men in Black director Barry Sonnenfeld once recalled the trials of growing up as the only child in a stereotypically Jewish family. One of his most embarrassing moments came on April 22, 1970; young Sonnenfeld, attending the first ever Earth Day concert, was horrified to have the proceeds interrupted for an urgent announcement: “Barry Sonnenfeld, call your mother.”  (Source: Anecdotage) – http://www.anecdotage.com/index.php?aid=6671)

S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTE #3: Nap Time?
“In preparation for their roles in Tim Burton’s Planet of the Apes, cast members were asked to attend several weeks of ‘Ape School,’ where they were taught basic walks and the differences between primates (orangutans have a waddling walk, and they like to hang from things). The most helpful tip for Helena Bonham Carter? “Think of a nappy [a diaper] that was full between your legs,” she advised, “and you didn’t want to spill it!”  (Source: Anecdotage) – http://www.anecdotage.com/index.php?aid=5654)

ONE B – QUOTES:

S & R* QUOTE #1: M. Scott Peck

“The truth is that our finest moments are most likely to occur when we are feeling deeply uncomfortable, unhappy, or unfulfilled. For it is only in such moments, propelled by our discomfort, that we are likely to step out of our ruts and start searching for different ways or truer answers.” (Source: Wisdom Quotes) – http://www.wisdomquotes.com/)

S & R* QUOTE #2:  Rachel Naomi Remen

“The most basic and powerful way to connect to another person is to listen. Just listen. Perhaps the most important thing we ever give each other is our attention…. A loving silence often has far more power to heal and to connect than the most well-intentioned words.” (Source:  Wisdom Quotes) –  http://www.wisdomquotes.com/)

S & R* QUOTE #3: Marge Piercy

“Never doubt that you can change history. You already have.” (Source:  Wisdom Quotes) – http://www.wisdomquotes.com/)

TWO – .“IT WORDS FOR ME!*”
“For today, my word/phrase(s) are:  “Earth Day”; “Planet”; “Global Warming”

Earth Day

“While this April 22 Earth Day was focused on the United States, an organization launched by Denis Hayes, who was the original national coordinator in 1970, took it international in 1990 and organized events in 141 nations.^[1] Numerous communities celebrate Earth Week, an entire week of activities focused on environmental issues.”

Planet

“A planet (from Greek πλανήτης αστήρ planētēs astēr “wandering star”) is a celestial body orbiting a star or stellar remnant that is massive enough to be rounded by its own gravity, is not massive enough to cause thermonuclear fusion, and has cleared its neighbouring region of planetesimals.^[a][1][2”

Global Warming

“Global warming is the rising average temperature of Earth‘s atmosphere and oceans since the late 19th century and its projected continuation. ”

THREE – STUDY/STATISTICS:

“The April 22, 1970, Earth Day marked the beginning of the modern environmental movement. Approximately 20 million Americans participated. Thousands of colleges and universities organized protests against the deterioration of the environment. Groups that had been fighting against oil spills, polluting factories and power plants, raw sewage, toxic dumps, pesticides, Freeway and expressway revolts, the loss of wilderness, and air pollution suddenly realized they shared common values. 

Gaylord Nelson, a United States Senator from Wisconsin, called for an environmental teach-in, or Earth Day, to be held on April 22, 1970. Over 20 million people participated that year, and this Earth Day is now observed on April 22 each year by more than 500 million people and several national governments in 175 countries.[citation needed] Numerous communities celebrate Earth Week, an entire week of activities focused on environmental issues.

Earth Day proved popular in the United States and around the world. The first April 22 Earth Day had participants and celebrants in two thousand colleges and universities, roughly ten thousand primary and secondary schools, and hundreds of communities across the United States. More importantly, it “brought 20 million Americans out into the spring sunshine for peaceful demonstrations in favor of environmental reform.”^[25]

According to Senator Nelson, the moniker “Earth Day” was “an obvious and logical name” suggested by “a number of people” in the fall of 1969, including, he writes, both “a friend of mine who had been in the field of public relations” and “a New York advertising executive,” Julian Koenig.^[33] Koenig, who had been on Nelson’s organizing committee in 1969, has said that the idea came to him by the coincidence of his birthday with the day selected, April 22; “Earth Day” rhyming with “birthday,” the connection seemed natural.^[34][35]

Senator Nelson chose the date in order to maximize participation on college campuses for what he conceived as an “environmental teach-in”. He determined the week of April 19–25 was the best bet as it did not fall during exams or spring breaks.^[48] Moreover, it did not conflict with religious holidays such as Easter or Passover, and was late enough in spring to have decent weather. More students were likely to be in class, and there would be less competition with other mid-week events—so he chose Wednesday, April 22. ” (Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earth_Day)

World population is projected to reach 7 billion in 2012, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. “(Source:  U.S. Census Bureau) – http://www.census.gov/newsroom/releases/archives/population/cb08-95.html)

42nd Earth Day: April 22, 2012

“April 22, 2012, marks the 42nd anniversary of Earth Day ― a day intended to inspire awareness and appreciation for the Earth’s natural environment. The day came from reaction to a massive oil spill in waters near Santa Barbara, Calif., in 1969. In honor of Earth Day ― and Earth Week (April 16-22)\ “ (Source:  U.S. Census Bureau) – http://www.census.gov/newsroom/releases/pdf/cb12ff-06_earthday.pdf)

FOUR – BONUS ARTICLES

S & R* NEWS ALERT* #1: Simple steps to care for the planet By Maja Begovic

“Earth Day is a time when millions of people around the world celebrate and renew their personal commitment to environmental stewardship. If you feel you’re not doing enough, it might be time to make a deeper commitment to our planet. Here are a few ideas to put into practice to help save our environment on Earth Day and every day:

Reduce the destructive impact of modern life

Get in the habit of turning off lights, computers and appliances when they are not in use. Swap standard light bulbs for energy efficient fluorescent ones to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. If you drive to work, consider a more environmentally friendly commute. Take public transit, share a ride with coworkers in your neighborhood or bike to work as often as possible. Recycle any plastics, cardboard (including packaged food boxes), aluminum, newspaper, cans and glass products. Reduce the amount of plastic bags that pollute the environment by purchasing re-usable bags for your shopping needs.

Go green by giving to charity

Giving to charity teaches many valuable lessons to every member of the family. Take a day and gather everything that you don’t want or no longer need and donate old household items, computers, toys, books and clothing to a local thrift store. You can also hold a yard sale and donate the proceeds to your charity of choice. A non-profit organization like Christian Children’s Fund of Canada (www.ccfcanada.ca) will use your donation to provide a family living in poverty with an environmentally-efficient cooking stove that is fuelled by vegetable trimmings and leaves instead of wood. It’s less wasteful and better for the environment.” www.newscanada.com

S & R* NEWS ALERT* #2: Lights Off for Earth Hour By Melissa Wallace

“In 2007, 2.2 million individuals and more than 2,000 businesses in Australia turned their lights off for one hour to take a stand against climate change. A year later, more than 50 million people across 35 countries participated in what became a global sustainability movement.

This year, on March 31st from 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., more than 120 countries are expected to participate. For some, this one hour of darkness can be too much to bear. Without their gadgets, televisions, laptops, and the Internet, a lot of people feel disconnected from their social networks and the world in general.

But it’s worth stopping to think that for millions of people living in developing countries, electricity is a luxury they can’t afford. When the sun sets, children who don’t have any other source of light have to stop studying and go to sleep.

Earth Hour provides us with a glimpse into the life of those in the developing world who are left in the dark on a daily basis. It’s an eye-opener and a great way to challenge ourselves to do more to help those in need. Learn how you can make a difference through organizations like Christian Children’s Fund of Canada “ (www.ccfcanada.ca) www.newscanada.com

*TM/© 2013, 2012 Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved

Vol. 4, No. 2, Monday, April 8th, 2013

TITLE:“Anniversary:  Dinner, cards, poems, rings, gifts, etc. – I have some ideas*”

INTRODUCTION

With the start of April 2013, I have reached another anniversary doing this blog, now starting my fourth year! Do you want to know a secret? I forgot this anniversary!!!! (I’m pleased that you could come since without you, my site wouldn’t be here.) That got me thinking about anniversaries in the sense of relationships and marriages.  Thus, my book of the week is “Anniversary” [Paperback] Richard W. Halperin (Author).  (Editor’s Note: This is another post in a continuing series on dating, relationships and marriage.)

ANTOINETTE’S LIFE & TIMES*

Parents: Some people say that if a man doesn’t know or remember his wedding anniversary date, he doesn’t care.  I do not agree.  My Dad never remembered or bought a gift for my mother, except for their 25^th and 50^th Wedding Anniversary.  But their marriage was a good one and they deeply loved and cared for each other.

Me, myself and I: In my case, I make arrangements for dinner on our anniversary and then inform him about it.  Now, if he doesn’t remember, isn’t that the best way to go?

Stuff happens department: You can’t always be impressed with a husband who remembers and plans a wedding anniversary. The husband of one of my friends organized a 25^th wedding anniversary party with his mistress, who was also his wife’s friend. She later found out about the affair. Needless to say, they are divorced today.

S & R* Letter

Since we’re talking about anniversaries, I would like to share with you my 4^th Anniversary writing this blog.  My devotion and perseverance in writing a weekly blog can be mainly attributed to my liking what I do.  Apparently success comes with perseverance.

Sincerely

Antoinette

THE AUTHOR: Richard W. Halperin (Author)

Richard Halperin is a poet, credited with 100 poems published in a variety of journals. Halperin graduated from City University of New York with a Ph.D. in English Literature.  Until 2005 he worked in Asia, Africa and Central and Eastern Europe as chief of teacher education for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.  He edited “Reading and Writing Poetry:  The Recommendations of Noted Poets from Many Lands on the Teaching of Poetry in Secondary School. The book, “Anniversary” is Mr. Halperin’s debut collection.

SERIES/COLLECTION

Books/Articles:

“Anniversary” by Richard W. Halperin (Apr 5 2011)

 THE BOOK:  “Anniversary” [Paperback] Richard W. Halperin (Author)

The book, “Anniversary” is a series of love poems presented from husband to wife, between parent and child, the living and departed. It’s a great mix of beautiful words, warm sentiment and emotion. Couldn’t you use a little of that today? It will move you; and more importantly, your best half!

CONCLUSION

A birthday commemorates your birth. An anniversary commemorates the birth of the love and the relationship with your mate. 

Personal Comments

I say:

• That wedding anniversaries are important – I usually remember this date; but I’m not alone as most women do so as well;
• That this is in contrast to men – almost half of the men in a study did not know the date of their anniversary;
• That wedding anniversaries along with birthdays, are the most celebrated events in the world;
• That some people make the anniversary a party for family and friends.  As far as I am concerned, it should be a couple’s event except for the milestone anniversaries like the 25^th &50^th; etc.
• That men and women are wired differently and when women accept this, we’ll understand men better;
• That women are better listeners;
• That women are emotional beings – apparently, we cry four times more than men. An anniversary has sentimental significance. This is why we are more likely to remember the day. You see, these things matter and touch us so much! 

The Point

In life, there are days that are happy and others that are not so much. An anniversary is a good day – take the time to make it special and enjoy it. It might even rekindle the spark, if gone fishing,  between a couple and this is really good!

ANTOINETTE’S TIP SHEET*

Here’s the recipe for a happy anniversary – everyone should:  

1. Recognize that an anniversary signifies a loving relationship enduring through the ups and downs, getting deeper – it also holds opportunities for tomorrow;
2. Choose a card with nice words and images that express how much he or she means to you;
3. Buy a gift for your significant other; but

• Remember it’s not the price that counts; it’s the thought that really matters.
• Put some thought in buying the gift.
• Think of rings for two – they’re neat!

4. Write a love letter to your significant other;

5. Take the day off and spend it together;

6. Have a romantic dinner for two at a favorite restaurant;

7. Reminisce about the good times from the past year;

7. Make a toast, with a glass of wine, thanking your mate for all he or she does every single day;

8. Add a wink, coo, smile, eyelash flutter and kiss as needed;

10.  Enjoy the congratulations –you’ve earned it the hard way, you’ve worked, each day, at your relationship!

Happy anniversary. Hope you do good this year. I gotta go now – I need to make plans for my big day. 

And that’s my thought of the week on books, what’s yours?*
Take it out for a spin and tell me if you agree.
ALP
“Books are life; and they make life better!*”

PREVIEW (Tentatively scheduled for Monday, April 15^th 2013): With the end of winter, I started shopping for new clothing for me and loved ones suitable for the nicer weather. I will share some of my thoughts and experiences. Spring forward with me next week.  (Editor’s Note: This is another post in a continuing series on general category – shopping.)

PREVIEW (Tentatively scheduled for Monday, April 22^nd 2013): Earth Day is to cherish nature. It’s coming on April 22^nd. What’s more important? Let’s mark the day together! (Editor’s Note: This is another post in a continuing series on special dates and holidays.)

P.S. Big News: There are big changes FINALLY coming to my blog – Please stay tuned.

P.P.S. #1 I have a TWITTER page. Consider becoming a follower? Visit www.twitter.com –   saveandread
P.P.S. #2 I also have a FACEBOOK page. Consider becoming a friend? Visit: www.facebook.com – Alp Save Andread – please check it out.
P.P.S. #3 I am on Linkedin. Consider becoming a connection? Visit  www.linkedin.com – Antoinette La Posta

CREDITS

-Web Tech:  richmediasound.com

The above is a new media production of Valente under its “United Author*” program.
*TM/© 2013 Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved.
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NEED SOMETHING FURTHER? TRY SAVE AND READ* (S&R*).

ONE  – “IT WORDS FOR ME!*”
For today, my word/phrase(s) are: “anniversary”; wedding anniversary; etc.

“An anniversary is a day that commemorates or celebrates a past event that occurred on the same day of the year as the initial event.” (Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anniversary

“A wedding anniversary is the anniversary of the date a wedding took place. Traditional names exist for most of them: for instance, 50 years of marriage is called a “golden wedding anniversary” or simply a “golden anniversary”.(Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wedding_anniversary

TWO – STUDY/STATISTICS:

The historic origins of wedding anniversaries date back to the Holy Roman Empire, when husbands crowned their wives with a silver wreath on their twenty-fifth anniversary and a gold wreath on the fiftieth. Later, principally in the twentieth century, commercialism led to the addition of more anniversaries being represented by a named gift.^[1]

The names of some anniversaries provide guidance for appropriate or traditional gifts for the spouses to give each other; if there is a party these can be brought by the guests or influence the theme or decoration. These gifts vary in different countries, but some years have well-established connections now common to most nations: 5th Wooden, 10th Tin, 15th Crystal, 20th China, 25th Silver, 30th Pearl, 40th Ruby, 50th Golden, 60th Diamond.

Traditional and modern anniversary gifts

Lists of wedding anniversary gifts vary by country. The traditional and modern U.S. versions were compiled by librarians at the Chicago Public Library.^[9][10][11]

Year	Traditional (U.S.)[12]	Traditional (UK)[13]	Modern (U.S.)[12]
1st	Paper	Cotton	Clock
2nd	Cotton	Paper	China
3rd	Leather		Crystal, glass
4th	Linen, silk	Fruit and flowers	Appliances (electrical)
5th	Wood		Silverware
6th	Iron	Sugar	Wood objects
7th	Wool, copper	Woollen	Desk sets/pen and pencil sets
8th	Bronze	Salt	Linens, lace
9th	Pottery	Copper	Leather goods
10th	Tin, Aluminum	Tin	Diamond jewelry
11th	Steel		Fashion jewelry, accessories
12th	Silk	Silk and fine linen	Pearls, colored gems
13th	Lace		Textiles, furs
14th	Ivory		Gold jewelry
15th	Crystal		Watches
16th			Silver holloware
17th			Furniture
18th			Porcelain
19th			Bronze
20th	China		Platinum
21st			Brass, Nickel
22nd			Copper
23rd			Silver plate
24th	Opal		Musical instruments
25th	Silver
30th	Pearl		Diamond
35th	Coral, jade	Coral	Jade
40th	Ruby
45th	Sapphire		Sapphire
50th	Gold
55th	Emerald		Emerald
60th	Diamond (yellow)	Diamond
65th		Blue sapphire
70th		Platinum[14][15][16]
75th	Diamond, gold		Diamond, gold
80th		Oak[17][18]	Diamond, pearl
85th		Wine	Wife’s birthstone

[edit] Flower gifts

Year	Flower
1st	Carnation
2nd	Lily of the Valley
3rd	Sunflower
4th	Hydrangea
5th	Daisy
6th	Calla
7th	Freesia
8th	Lilac
9th	Bird of paradise
10th	Daffodil
11th	Tulip
12th	Peony
13th	Chrysanthemum
14th	Dahlia
15th	Rose
20th	Aster
25th	Iris
28th	Orchid
30th	Lily
40th	Gladiolus
50th	Yellow rose, violet

(Source:  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wedding_anniversary)

THREE – BONUS ARTICLES

S & R*NEWS ALERT*#1: May brings attention to Swallowing Awareness Day

“Feeding and swallowing disorders affect infants, young children, adults and the elderly. Also known as dysphagia, it may affect those afflicted with Down syndrome, cleft lip and palate, prematurity, cerebral palsy, developmental delay, brain injury or stroke, say specialists in this field. Left untreated, feeding and swallowing disorders can lead to malnutrition, dehydration, pneumonia, delayed growth and development, social isolation or airway obstruction.

Wednesday, May 8, 2013 is Swallowing Awareness Day. If you or someone you know is suffering from a swallowing disorder, you can learn more or find a professional specializing in dysphagia near you by visiting www.speechandhearing.ca.” www.newscanada.com

S & R*NEWS ALERT*#2: 5 clever ways to improve a relationship

“No matter whether you’re dating now, or have been happily married for years, here are five simple ways to make that relationship even better, no matter where you are in your romantic journey:

Recognize what’s important to your partner. Taking time to do this can go a long way towards building goodwill and an atmosphere of compromise. On the flip side, it’s also important for your partner to recognize your wants and for you to state them clearly. Constantly giving to others at the expense of your own needs builds resentment and anger.

Keep outside relationships and interests alive. No one person can meet all of our needs, and expecting too much from someone can put a lot of unhealthy pressure on a relationship. Having friends and outside interests not only strengthens your social network, but brings new insights and stimulation to the relationship too.

Change it up. Act out of character you can easily get into ruts. If you find that you are repeating patterns, step back and break it up. Be somewhat unknown to each other. We are hardwired as humans to like mystery and be intrigued by it. There is an excitement that comes from anticipating and not knowing.

Find something you enjoy doing together. It can be a shared hobby, a dance class, a daily walk or volunteering. Doing service moves you out of yourself and your own problems and supports a broader, more spiritual view of life. Get involved with a local organization like Christian Children’s Fund of Canada (www.ccfcanada.ca) and help improve the lives of children and families living in poverty around the world.

Connect as a couple and rekindle love. Relationships need time to thrive. It is vitally important to set aside specific times to be together. Commit to spending quality time together on a regular basis. Even during very busy and stressful times, a few minutes of sharing and connecting can help keep bonds strong.

Relationships are an investment. The more you put in, the more you get back.” www.newscanada.com

*TM/© 2013 Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved.

NEWS ALERT! URGENT – Discovery with implications to millions each day!*

I was doing research and discovered something that touches millions and millions of people every single day. This is about sandwich eaters. They make and eat sandwiches in the multi millions. Apparently after a taste test, the study revealed that if the condiments, meat, tuna or whatever are on the left side of each bread slice, NOT on the right side, the sandwich is 50% tastier and is enjoyed two minutes longer. This is really important! I need for you to get the message out!*

“APRIL FOOL’S DAY: Jokes, pranks, ideas for work or kids at school – I want to laugh & have fun!*” (Update 2013)

Vol. 4, No. 1, Monday, April 1^st, 2013 

TITLE:  “APRIL FOOL’S DAY: Jokes, pranks, ideas for work or kids at school – I want to laugh & have fun!*” (Update 2013)

INTRODUCTION

I am smiling silly. Why do you ask? I’ll tell you. April Fool’s Day is coming up on April 1st. It’s a day when people joke around and play pranks; and some work out unbelievably well. On the occasion of this date, my topic is jokes and pranks. My book of the week is: “Fooled You!” Fakes and Hoaxes Through the Years” by Elaine Pascoe (writer) and Laurie Keller (illustrator). (Editor’s Note: This is an update of my post of April, 2012 and the original from April 3rd 2011.) – another post in a continuing series on holidays and special dates.)

ANTOINETTE’S MY LIFE & TIMES*

My Dad had a great sense of humor. (I like to think that I do as well.) Many years ago, a few young girls, friends of my daughter, worked at a bakery part-time after school. One day, they were talking about an older gentleman who came daily to the bakery to buy bread. They looked forward to this customer because he always joked with them. The man in question turned out to be my Dad.  I guess it runs in the family.

I have never played a prank on someone; but I have friends who have tried to fool me on April 1st. As a result, I’ve been on my guard.

One of my favorites is the prank played by one of my cousins, who is a big joker. He went to a lot of trouble to find fake hair and braid it.  You see there was a lady who worked in his office and always braided her hair. One day, while carrying on a conversation, he picked up a pair of scissors and pretended that he was cutting her braid. Of course, he had the fake ready to show her.  She was stunned, thinking the braid was hers. Once told that it was all a joke, she laughed hysterically.  Everyone in the office talked about the prank for weeks afterwards.

UPDATE 2013

In the past year, the subject of pranks was in the news… not good news. I remind you about the prank played by two Australian DJs. They called the Edward VII Hospital in London, where the Duchess of Cambridge was being cared for. The two DJs pretended to be the Queen and Prince Charles and called the British nurse who took the prank call and put the call through. Some pranks are in poor taste. Others turn out badly. The outcome of this one was worse. The nurse committed suicide. Indeed, her death was a terrible tragedy. This event must cause everyone to take pause to moderate jokes and consider the effects on people BEFORE carrying them out.

ANTOINETTE’S TOP 5 APRIL FOOL’S JOKES*

Below are a few seriously good joke stories that I discovered while researching this post article.

5. “Iceberg from Antarctica:  In 1983, Australian millionaire businessman Dick Smith claimed to have towed an iceberg from Antarctica to Sydney Harbour. He used a barge covered with white plastic and fire extinguisher foam to convince witnesses.[15]”

4. “Apple buys the Beatles: In 2010, Bob Lefsetz released an April Fools’ Day letter which had rumours circulating around the music industry.[14]”

3. “Taco Liberty Bell: In 1996, Taco Bell took out a full-page advertisement in The New York Times announcing that they had purchased the Liberty Bell to “reduce the country’s debt” and renamed it the “Taco Liberty Bell”. When asked about the sale, White House press secretary Mike McCurry replied tongue-in-cheek that the Lincoln Memorial had also been sold and would henceforth be known as the Lincoln Mercury Memorial. [11]”

2. “Left-handed Whoppers: In 1998, Burger King ran an ad in USA Today, saying that people could get a Whopper for left-handed people whose condiments were designed to drip out of the right side.[12] Not only did customers order the new burgers, but some specifically requested the “old”, right-handed burger.[13]” (Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia) –http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/April_Fools’_Day

1. Google makes fun of itself and its users:

Several examples are:

“2000: Google’s first April Fools’ Day hoax, the MentalPlex hoax, invited users to project a mental image of what they wanted to find whilst staring at an animated gif.^[13] Several humorous error messages^[14] were then displayed on the search results page,^[15]

2002: Google reveals the technology behind its PageRank Systems—PigeonRank. Google touts the benefits of this cost-effective and efficient means of ranking pages and reassures readers that there is no animal cruelty involved in the process. The article makes many humorous references and puns based on computer terminology and how Google Page Rank really works, (for example, a chart showing the pigeons’ consumption of linseed and flax, represented as “Lin/Ax Kernels,” a pun on the Linux kernel).^[16]

• Pigeon Rank

2004: Fictitious job opportunities for a research center on the moon. Luna/X (a pun to Linux and the Latin word for moon, as well as a reference to both the Windows XP visual style and Mac OS X) is the name of a new operating system they claimed to have created for working at the research center.

• Google Copernicus Center

2005:  Google Gulp, a fictitious drink, was announced by Google in 2005. According to the company, this beverage would optimize one’s use of the Google search engine by increasing the drinker’s intelligence. It was claimed this boost was achieved through real-time analysis of the user’s DNA and carefully tailored adjustments to neurotransmitters in the brain (a patented technology termed Auto-Drink; as the “Google Gulp FAQ” suggests, partly through MAO inhibition).

2006: On April Fool’s Day 2006, Google Romance was announced on the main Google search page with the introduction, “Dating is a search problem. Solve it with Google Romance.” It pretends to offer a “Soulmate Search” to send users on a “Contextual Date”. A parody of online dating, it had a link for “those who generally favor the ‘throw enough stuff at the wall’ approach to online dating” to Post multiple profiles with a bulk upload file, you sleaze in addition to Post your Google Romance profile. Clicking on either of these gave an error page, which explained that it was an April Fool’s joke and included links to previous April Fool’s jokes

2007 [edit] Gmail Paper: At about 10:00 PM, Pacific time (where Google has its headquarters) on 30 March 2007, Google changed the login page for Gmail to announce a new service called Gmail Paper. The service offered to allow users of Google’s free webmail service to add e-mails to a “Paper Archive”, which Google would print (on “96% post-consumer organic soybean sputum“) and mail via traditional post. The service would be free, supported by bold, red advertisements printed on the back of the printed messages. Image attachments would also be printed on high-quality glossy paper, though MP3 and WAV files would not be printed. The page detailing more information about the service features photographs of Ian Spiro and Carrie Kemper, current employees of Google. Also featured are Product Marketing Managers of Gmail Anna-Christina Douglas, and Shane Lawrence

YouTube: On April 1, 2008, all featured videos on the UK and Australian homepages, and later, all international homepages, of Google-owned YouTube linked to a video of Rick Astley’s song “Never Gonna Give You Up“, causing all users of the website who clicked on featured videos to be Rickrolled. This was the first year YouTube participated in Google’s April Fool’s Day tradition.”

(Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia) –http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/April_Fools’_Day

ANTOINETTE’S TOP 5 DOABLE APRIL FOOL’S JOKES*

5. At work, tell 5-7 random people that a particular person (e.g., your friend) needed each of them to come to his or her workstation precisely at 11:00 A.M. that morning – they will be surprised when these people drop around all at once.  

4. If you are a manager or have employees under you, send people looking for made- up items such as an electric pen, desk-top jack hammer, rewritable paper, hand-held book holder, etc. or such articles particularly named: portable paper weight,  bottle of potable water, pre-filled pie crust, etc.;

3. If you work in a restaurant, prepare a memo for coworkers advising that due to the portion control law and advertising standards, each serving of fries or chips must contain precisely x number of pieces; and that all food service employees, from kitchen to server chain of possession, must sign a written report due at the close of business on April 1st, addressed to the PORTION CONTROL AUTHORITY, confirming your restaurant’s compliance.

2. At school,

(a) Bring in a salt shaker, filling it with sugar. (Don’t forget to take it away after used by one or two people.) 

(b) Offer class mates in the cafeteria, white creme cookies where white toothpaste was replaced for the cream filling. (Don’t forget to throw them out after offering them a few times.) 

1. Glue some coins to high visible spots on a busy sidewalk and then watch the people try to pick-up the coins.

THE AUTHORS: Elaine Pascoe (writer) and Laurie Keller (illustrator)
 Elaine Pascoe has worked as a newspaper reporter, magazine writer and editor. She has written 20+ nonfiction books for young readers. She lives in Connecticut.

Laurie Keller is an American children’s book author and illustrator. She has written four books for Henry Holt & Co. Books for Young Readers, and produced illustrations for two others.

Growing up in Muskegon, Michigan and after graduating high school, she took classes and enrolled at Kendall College of Art and Design, a local community college, receiving a degree in illustration. She worked at Hallmark Cards as a greeting card artist. While there, she was allowed to design entire cards, which caused her to consider writing and illustrating books.
(Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia)  –http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laurie_Keller  (Source: http://us.macmillan.com/fooledyou)

SERIES/COLLECTION
Books by Laurie Keller
Several are:

• “The Scrambled States of America” (subject: geography)
• “Open Wide: Tooth School Inside” (subject: tooth care) – Henry Holt and Co. – 2000
• “Arnie the Doughnut” (subject: anthropomorphic doughnut) – Henry Holt and Co. – 2003
• “Grandpa Gazillion’s Number Yard” (subject: numbers) – Henry Holt and Co. – 2005
• “Do Unto Otters” (subject: manners)
• “The Scrambled States of America Talent Show” (subject: follow-up to 1998 book) Henry Holt and Co. – 1998
• “Fooled You!: Fakes and Hoaxes Through the Years” (Elaine Pascoe) – Henry Holt and Co. – 2005

Books by Elaine Pascoe
Some are:

• “Fooled You!: Fakes and Hoaxes Through the Years” (Elaine Pascoe) – Henry Holt and Co. – 2005
• “Nature Close-Up – Slime, Mold and Fungi” [Board book]
• “Nature Close-Up – Pill Bugs & Sow Bugs and Other Custaceans” [Hardcover]
• “Birds Use Their Beaks (How & Why)” [Library Binding]
  (Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia)  –http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laurie_Keller (Sourcc: http://us.macmillan.com/fooledyou)
  (Source: Amazon) -http://www.amazon.com/Birds-Use-Their-Beaks-How/dp/0836830083/ref=ntt_at_ep_dpt_4

THE BOOK: “Fooled You!” Fakes and Hoaxes Through the Years”

by Elaine Pascoe  (writer) & Laurie Keller (illustrator)

In the last three centuries, there have been many great hoaxes carried out. Some were: (a) Crop circles; (b) Aliens on earth. (c) Fairies caught on film; (d) Giant cats. Pascoe chose 10+ to examine in depth, noting things in common. She inquired into the doers: “How they did it?” and the victims: “Why they bought it?” Fool you ….It’s a fun book …Fool it! 
(Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia)  – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laurie_Keller  (Source: http://us.macmillan.com/fooledyou)

CONCLUSION

To have a sense of humor is a wonderful quality. Having fun is a valid aim. Being merry contributes to a positive attitude. Smiles wear very well. A round of laughter is a mood changer. Enjoying a joke is uplifting. This is all good … up to a point.

My personal comments

I say:

• That I am not really a practical joke person. However, this does not mean to say that I don’t have a sense of humor. Indeed, I like to smile and laugh just like the next gal and guy.
• That practical jokes of the April 1^st kind should be in good, clean fun and of VERY short duration.
• That no one should get hurt; and we always need to laugh WITH the person, being the butt of the joke.
• That some practical jokes go too far to play a practical joke.  It could be quite disagreeable or even damaging. Pranks that cause bodily harm may also result in lawsuits, criminal charges and getting fired. Use your discretion! 

The point

Joking and pranking should be light-hearted fun. If it is not, then don’t do it!

ANTOINETTE”S TIP SHEET*
Everyone should:
1. Make sure it’s not to the extreme, especially if it’s at someone else’s expense;
2. Have fun with jokes and pranks, but don’t make anyone feel bad;
3. Ensure that it’s a light and mild prank , particularly in the workplace;
4. Call the person, quickly after the fact, on whom you played a joke, to tell him/her that it was only a prank;
5. Be on guard on April’s Fools;

This year, let’s have fun and crack a smile and more, break out in laughter and laugh out loud! Oh, by the way, the sandwich announcement above is sheer baloney! Happy April Fool’s Day!

And that’s my thought of the week on books, what’s yours?*

Take it out for a spin and tell me if you agree.
ALP

PREVIEW (Tentatively scheduled for Monday, April 8^th 2013): With the start of April 2013, I have reached another anniversary doing this blog, now starting my fourth year! Do you want to know a secret? I forgot this anniversary!!!! That got me thinking about anniversaries in the sense of relationships and marriages. An anniversary is something which holds opportunities for spouses, both good and bad. Why don’t you come by? With some info, you might do good this year! (Editor’s Note: This is another post in a continuing series on dating, relationships and marriage.)

P.S. Wowee …Wowee Shop Valente is finally open; and my new line of Antoinerte La Posta* brand of clothing is now available. There is still much more to come to the Save and Read* web site. Watch for it!

P.P.S. #1 I have a TWITTER page. Consider becoming a follower? Visit www.twitter.com –   saveandread
P.P.S. #2 I also have a FACEBOOK page. Consider becoming a friend? Visit: www.facebook.com – Alp Save Andread – please check it out.
P.P.S. #3 I am on Linkedin. Consider becoming a connection? Visit  www.linkedin.com – Antoinette La Posta

CREDITS

-Web Tech:  richmediasound.com

-Web Tech:  richmediasound.com

The above is a new media production of Valente under its “United Author*” program.
*TM/© 2011, 2012, 2013 Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved.

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NEED SOMETHING FURTHER? TRY SAVE AND READ* (S&R*) . ANECDOTES & QUOTES

ONE –A “I HAVE AN ANECDOTE ON THAT!*” – ANECDOTES
S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTE #1: April Fool’s
“We are told that Phillips Brooks’ preaching was fired by a glowing personality. He loved Christ. He loved people. Especially did he love little children. “They tell this story on him. One April Fool’s Day, as he was walking down a Boston street, he saw a little fellow trying in vain to reach a door bell. True to his love for children, Brooks went up the steps saying, ‘Let me help you, my little man!’ Brooks rang the door bell. The little boy scampered down the steps shouting back to Brooks, ‘Now, run like the devil!’”(Source: Anecdotage) –  http://www.anecdotage.com/index.php?aid=15611)

S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTE #2: Al Franken: Office Prank
While working as writers on “Saturday Night Live,” Marilyn Suzanne Miller and Alan Zweibel often played pranks on fellow writers Al Franken and Tom Davis:

“We had so much extra fuel that after being up all night writing, we still had to think of other stuff to do,” Miller recalled. “So one night we went into Franken and Davis’s office and took out all the furniture – all the desks, ripped the phones out of the wall, took the chairs, took the file cases, took everything in the middle of the night and shoved it into Herb Sargent’s office where it couldn’t be seen. And then all we did was take a piece of paper and leave it on the floor that said, ‘See me. Lorne [producer Lorne Michaels].’ This is like the first season, when they were apprentice writers! Alan and I thought this was hilarious. Needless to say, Franken wasn’t too happy…”(Source: Anecdotage) – http://www.anecdotage.com/index.php?aid=20933)

 S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTE #3: Prince Harry: Practical Joker
“Known for his happy-go-lucky attitude, the younger prince [Prince Harry] loves practical jokes. In one of his more memorable public pranks, at the wedding of his former nanny Tiggy Pettifer, he snatched a goldfish from a bowl and pretended to swallow it.”(Source: Anecdotage) – http://www.anecdotage.com/index.php?aid=20430)

ONE –B “I SHOULD HAVE SAID THAT!*” – QUOTES
S & R* QUOTE #1: Tara Brach

“When we put down ideas of what life should be like, we are free to wholeheartedly say yes to our life as it is.”

 (Source: Wisdom Quotes) – http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/life/)

 S & R* QUOTE #2: Franklin P. Jones

“Love doesn’t make the world go ’round; love is what makes the ride worthwhile.”

 S & R* QUOTE #3: Ralph Waldo Emerson

“He who is not everyday conquering some fear has not learned the secret of life.”(Source: Wisdom Quotes) – http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/life/)

TWO – “IT WORDS FOR ME!*”
“For today, my word/phrase(s) are: “April Fool’s Day”; “Practical joke”

April Fools’ Day
“April Fools’ Day is celebrated in the Western world on the 1st of April of every year. Sometimes referred to as All Fools’ Day, April 1 is not a legal holiday, but is widely recognized and celebrated as a day which tolerates practical jokes and general foolishness. The day is marked by the commission of good humoured or funny jokes, hoaxes and other practical jokes of varying sophistication on friends, family members, teachers, neighbors, work associates, etc.”
(Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/April_Fools’_Day

Practical joke
“A practical joke (also known as a prank or gag) is a mischievous trick played on a person, especially one that causes the victim to experience embarrassment, indignity, or discomfort. Practical jokes differ from confidence tricks in that the victim finds out, or is let in on, the joke rather than being fooled into handing over money or other valuables. Practical jokes or pranks are typically lighthearted, reversible or non-permanent, and made to make people feel foolish or victimized to a certain degree, although in some practical jokes there could be an inherent strain of cruelty present.”
(Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Practical_joke

Bonus Fact: April Fools’ Day – Origins

“In Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales (1392), the “Nun’s Priest’s Tale” is set Syn March bigan thritty dayes and two.[1] Modern scholars believe that there is a copying error in the extant manuscripts and that Chaucer actually wrote, Syn March was gon.[2] Thus the passage originally meant 32 days after March, i.e. May 2,[3] the anniversary of the engagement of King Richard II of England to Anne of Bohemia, which took place in 1381. However, readers apparently misunderstood this line to mean “32nd of March,” i.e. 1st April.[4] In Chaucer’s tale, the vain cock Chauntecleer is tricked by a fox.

In 1509, a French poet referred to a poisson d’avril (April fool, literally “April fish”), a possible reference to the holiday.[3] In 1539, Flemish poet Eduard de Dene wrote of a nobleman who sent his servants on foolish errands on the 1st of April.[3] In 1686, John Aubrey referred to the holiday as “Fools holy day”, the first British reference.[3] On 1st April, 1698, several people were tricked into going to the Tower of London to “see the Lions washed”.[3] The name “April Fools” echoes that of the Feast of Fools, a Medieval holiday held on the 28th December.[5]

In the Middle Ages, New Year’s Day was celebrated on the 25th of March in most European towns.[6] In some areas of France, New Year’s was a week-long holiday ending on the 1st of April.[5] So it is possible that April Fools originated because those who celebrated on the 1st of January made fun of those who celebrated on other dates.[7] The use of the 1st of January as New Year’s Day was common in France by the mid-sixteenth century,[3] and this date was adopted officially in 1564 by the Edict of Roussillon.

In the eighteenth century, the festival was often posited as going back to the time of Noah. According to an English newspaper article published in 1789, the day had its origin when Noah sent his dove off too early, before the waters had receded; he did this on the first day of the Hebrew month that corresponds with April.[8]”
(Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia) –http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/April_Fools’_Day

THREE– STUDY/STATISTICS:

FOUR – BONUS ARTICLES

S & R* NEWS ALERT* #1 On the Road to 2010, U. S. Census Bureau Final Report, Faith-Based Outreach Focus Groups
“….
Summary of Comments
Consider changing Census Day to a day other than April 1st. Associating the Census with April Fools Day sends a mixed-message to community members, causing suspicion and creating the unintended perception that participating in the census may be some kind of trick or joke. Consider involving the census partners in choosing or even creating an alternative day to kickoff the 2010 Census – an occasion of universally positive national and/or cultural significance, i.e., Cinco de Mayo, June tenth, Fourth of July, etc. Greater emphasis should be placed on involving children in 2010 Census events, activities, give always, etc. Host or sponsor community events and ethnic festivals which involve the entire family. Children are most often the best, most direct way to reach and educate parents, grandparents, and other caregivers to the value and importance of participating in the census.

Clowns, current popular music, interactive games, raffles, and giveaways, provide the safest, surest way to gain access to children and, through them, their parents. In Dallas, for example, hip hop artist “Little Bow Wow” was a big hit with the youth! In other locations, hip hop songs, sports stars, “American Idol” type entertainment figures, and other culturally significant images can work well in capturing the hearts and minds of the community. Through this means, interest and participation in the 2010 Census and beyond is generated.”
(Source U.S. Census Bureau) – http://www.census.gov/cac/race_ethnic_advisory_committees/docs/2007_Oct_Faith based_FG_Report.pdf

S & R* NEWS ALERT* #2 On the Road to 2010, U. S. Census Bureau Final Report, Faith-Based Outreach Focus Groups
“….
Summary of Comments
Consider changing Census Day to a day other than April 1st. Associating the Census with April Fools Day sends a mixed-message to community members, causing suspicion and creating the unintended perception that participating in the census may be some kind of trick or joke. Consider involving the census partners in choosing or even creating an alternative day to kickoff the 2010 Census – an occasion of universally positive national and/or cultural significance, i.e., Cinco de Mayo, June tenth, Fourth of July, etc. Greater emphasis should be placed on involving children in 2010 Census events, activities, give always, etc. Host or sponsor community events and ethnic festivals which involve the entire family. Children are most often the best, most direct way to reach and educate parents, grandparents, and other caregivers to the value and importance of participating in the census.

Clowns, current popular music, interactive games, raffles, and giveaways, provide the safest, surest way to gain access to children and, through them, their parents. In Dallas, for example, hip hop artist “Little Bow Wow” was a big hit with the youth! In other locations, hip hop songs, sports stars, “American Idol” type entertainment figures, and other culturally significant images can work well in capturing the hearts and minds of the community. Through this means, interest and participation in the 2010 Census and beyond is generated.”
Source U.S. Census Bureau) – http://www.census.gov/cac/race_ethnic_advisory_committees/docs/2007_Oct_Faith based_FG_Report.pdf

*TM/© 2011, 2012, 2013 Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved

EASTER, PASSOVER, HOLI, NAVRUZ, ETC.: I ask for blessings for each of you!* – UPDATE MARCH 2013

Vol. 3, No. 52, Monday, March 25^TH, 2013

TITLE: “EASTER, PASSOVER, HOLI, NAVRUZ, ETC.: I ask for blessings for each of you!*” (UPDATE 2013)

INTRODUCTION

The word Easter derives from the word “Eostre”, the goddess of spring.  Previous to that Easter was called “Pasch” or Passover, which is still used in non-English languages. 

Easter is the time to escape winter and look forward to summertime. It also brings holy days. There are many all over the globe; four are predominant: the celebration of the Christian Easter, the Jewish Passover, the Hindu Holis and the Persian festival of Navruz. Although specific customs and traditions may differ, adherents embrace the fundamental notion of good over evil. In addition, the love of life is common to all. This holy day is when people partake of special foods at a big family meal; it is also a time for giving to loved ones. Furthermore, this is an opportunity for an individual renovation project of the person. My book of the week is “Holy Week: A Spiritual Guide from Palm Sunday to Easter” [Hardcover] by Emil Bock.  My bonus book for this week is The Passover Seder: The Art of Jewish Living Paperback] by Wolfson (Author) Hence, today’s topic is Easter and more. (Editor’s Note: This is part of a continuing series on holidays and special dates.)

MY LIFE & TIMES*

2013 Update: After the election of a new pope, there has been much talk about the future of the Roman Catholic Church.  I believe that Pope Francis I is a very humble man and down to earth; he takes care of the poor. I think that he has the strength to deal with the issues that have afflicted the church. This Easter, I hope and pray that our new pope will bring about the needed changes. His aim is also to bring everybody together no matter the religion – I think he can do this as he is a bridge builder.

Easter is the most important holiday of the Catholic calendar. This is the most religious day of the year when the faithful go to a special mass, praising Jesus Christ who has come to save our souls, rejoicing and giving thanks for his resurrection. It’s also the time for family gatherings. This coming Easter, my family will gather at my house for a big lunch.  I will attend mass early in the morning before finishing up last minute preparations for my family meal. 

I will also be celebrating Passover with my better half and his brother.  This year it occurs just before our Easter. It’s going to be hectic!

In last year’s update (2012), I noted the passing of my beloved mother. I miss her along with my dear father, who I lost previously. I think of them every day. Although their passing makes me sad, I feel blessed that I had them for as long as I did. I also believe that they are my angels looking out for me and my family. As you can imagine on Easter, I will take pause remembering my parents. In my heart, I know that they will be with us in spirit.

——————————————————————————————————————————————-

Easter is a very religious holy day for my family. In springtime, the Catholic holy week, starts with Palm Sunday. I attend early in order to buy palms (“la palma”) and olive branches; and at the beginning of the mass, the priest blesses them. Following the tradition, I give these palms and branches to loved ones. (Usually on Palm Sunday, this is the day to forgive and forget – that’s another of the lessons to be learned.) The week continues through to Easter Friday and Eastern Sunday (the day of the rising). It is important for me to attend Sunday mass on Easter morning. In the past, I went either with my daughters or alone; but today my better-half goes with me.  (He is not of the Catholic faith, but he accompanies me out of respect and I appreciate it.  My partner celebrates Passover.  I also accompany him on these high-holidays.)  Easter Monday is the day after the fact. 

It is a family Easter tradition that the family gets together for a big meal.  The children are given Easter chocolates. Without fail, it was a pleasant afternoon.  The atmosphere was always joyful.  It also gave us a chance to see each other. When my grandparents were alive, my parents, my aunts, uncles, cousins and myself visited them in the afternoon.  My grandmother had her usual baked goods. “La Colomba” was one of them. My mother did it next and then it was my turn. Now that my Mom is less mobile, I am arranging the feast that travels to her.

As well, I am now grappling with the combination of Easter and Passover. Since it usually occur overlaps, it is difficult for me to give two holiday dinner parties one after another.   I don’t always do it. However, it’s an aim and when I set my mind to do something, I do it! It’s not a turning away from our respective beliefs and customs, rather, it’s an enriching addition for both of us to share. Now that’s a good thought.  

THE AUTHOR: Emil Bock

Emil Bock (1895-1959), anthroposophist and theologian, was learned and pious. Bock, born in Barmen, Germany, studied languages at the University of Bonn. Then in 1914, after enlisting as a volunteer in the First World War and sent to the front in Flanders, he was wounded. In 1916, he met the theologian Friedrich Rittelmeyer, and from 1918 he studied Protestant theology in Berlin, graduating in 1921. He was one of the founders of the Christian Community in Switzerland. He had leadership qualities. He led the seminar of the Christian Community. Bock was incarcerated by the Nazis in the concentration camp Welzheim, yet survived; on being released, he lived under surveillance for the rest of the war. After the war, Bock was instrumental in the rebuilding of the community. In 1838, after the death of Rittelmeyer, he became the head of the community. This was a remarkable man; I was pleased to have learned about him. He was a prolific author. His book, “Holy Week: A Spiritual Guide from Palm Sunday to Easter” hits the spot this week. (Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emil_Bock

SERIES/COLLECTION

Books
Several are:

• Zur religiösen Erneuerung (mit Friedrich Rittelmeyer), Sonderdruck (aus Die Drei, Jg. 1, Heft 9), 1922
• Die Kindheit Jesu. Zwei apokryphe Evangelien, Michael Verlag (Christus aller Erde 14/15), München 1924
• Das lichte Jahr. Vom Jahreslauf und den Festen (mit Rudolf Meyer), Verlag der Christengemeinschaft (Christus aller Erde 4), Stuttgart 1924
• Gegenwartsrätsel im Offenbarungslicht (mit Rudolf Frieling, Johannes Werner Klein, Eberhard Kurras und Rudolf Meyer), Verlag der Christengemeinschaft (Christus aller Erde 16), Stuttgart 1925
• Ein Spiel von Johannes dem Täufer. Gemeinde-Spiel zur Sommersonnenwende, Stuttgart 192
• Beiträge zur Übersetzung des Neuen Testaments, Typoskripte, Stuttgart 1930–33 (neu bearbeitet in zwei Bänden 1950)
• “Holy Week: A Spiritual Guide from Palm Sunday to Easter” 
• The Three Years: The Life of Christ Between Baptism and Ascension (Paperback – Dec 2005)
• Genesis  (Hardcover – Apr 1 1983)
• Moses: From the Mysteries of Egypt to the Judges of Israel by Emil Bock and M. St.Goar (Hardcover – Jun 26 1986)
• The Apocalypse of Saint John by Emil Bock and A. Heidenreich (Hardcover – Jul 1986)

THE BOOK: “Holy Week: A Spiritual Guide from Palm Sunday to Easter” [Hardcover] by Emil Bock

In biblical times, Easter was the worst of times that was yet, also so uplifting for the believers. Bock describes the weeklong Easter holy period from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday. He recounts the important events.  He takes us beyond.  He reminds that it is a time for reflection and meditation. He inspires us. He guides us daily to the gospel, offering chances to pray. Pick it up and contemplate. It will do you good!

BONUS BOOK:  The Passover Seder: The Art Of Jewish Living Paperback] By Wolfson  (Author)

THE AUTHOR (Bonus Book):  Dr. Wolfson

Dr. Wolfson received his Ph.D. in Education from Washington University in St. Louis and an M.A. in Jewish Studies from the University of Judaism.  He is the Fingerhut Professor of Education at American Jewish University in Los Angeles.  He is also the Co-President of Synagogue 3000 and a member of the Consortium for the Future of the Jewish Family.

SERIES/COLLECTION

Books
Several are:

• The Art of Jewish Living: The Passover Seder 
• The Spirituality of Welcoming: How to Transform Your Congregation Into a Sacred Community
• A Time to Mourn, a Time to Comfort: A Guide to Jewish Bereavement (The Art of Jewish Living·
• God’s To-do List: 103 Ways to Be an Angel and Do God’s Work on Earth ·
• Shabbat, 2nd Edition: The Family Guide to Preparing for and Welcoming the Sabbath (The Art of Jewish Living Series)
• Hanukkah, 2nd Edition: The Family Guide to Spiritual Celebration (The Art of Jewish Living)
• What You Will See Inside a Synagogue
• Hanukkah (Building Jewish Life)

THE (BONUS) BOOK:  The Passover Seder: The Art Of Jewish Living Paperback] By Wolfson (Author)

I want to learn about the Jewish faith. My significant other is Jewish. I want to learn about Passover. It’s an important religious date on the Jewish calendar. I want to learn how to do the holiday at home. It’s what a woman in love does in such a circumstance. This book offers an explanation of the biblical reasons for the holiday. It also talks about the Passover “Seder” the home ritual and ceremony. It also guides you how to observe and prepare for the holiday. For the uninitiated, this holiday has a “Haggadah” a special booklet with instructions and readings. Wolfson includes recounts Passover experiences of real families. The photos go beyond the words. I now know more about the rituals. The Q & A section adds to the understanding.  This year, we will start new family traditions. Let’s celebrate!

CONCLUSION

Throughout the world, the spring festival season, amongst others, comprises: the Christian Easter, the Hindu celebration of Holi, the Jewish observance of Passover and the Persian festival of Navruz.

Easter is the celebration of Jesus’ resurrection.  It is a time to repent, re-evaluate your life and do better. It is also a time to reconnect with family and friends with whom you’ve had a falling out.  Jews observe Passover, which commemorates the Hebrews’ exodus from the Egypt of the Pharoahs and escape from servitude. Easter and Passover are somewhat interconnected.  They both occur at approximately the same time. But there is more.  Jesus was Jewish and a rabbi.  It is controversial that the last supper could have been passover seder.  While the meaning of Easter and that of Passover are different they speak to being thankful for the sacrifices paid in our behalf and doing better as people.  The Hindus light bonfires in memory of the miraculous escape from the fires that young Prahlad, a staunch devotee of god Vishnu, escaped without any injuries due to his unshakable devotion. Navruz (Nowruz) marks the first day of spring and the beginning of the year in Iranian calendar.

Personal Comments

I say:

• That unfortunately, Easter has, to a certain extent, lost its religious significance. 
• That for some, it’s now become
  • an extended weekend to go on holiday. 
  • An excuse for family and friends to come together, have a nice meal and give out Easter eggs and chocolates.

The point

It is important to believe. Being a good person all year long is a good purpose. Recognizing the power of love and goodness is good for the soul. Many people today neglect to do so. Easter like Passover, Holi and Navruz are not just another day. Make them special and they will help make you SPECIAL. 

ANTOINETTE’S TIP SHEET*
Everyone should:
1. Believe;

2. Find your way to observe the holy days;

3. Connect with family and join with them in the celebration;

5. Take part in an Easter parade to celebrate the festivities;

4. Take this to read religious texts or at least spiritual material;

5. Be a good person; in this regard, strive to:
5.1 Be forgiving.

Happy holiday …. I wish for you and your loved ones good health, long life, prosperity, much love and joy.  “Buona Pasqua!*”

Take it out for a spin and tell me if you agree.

And that’s my thought of the week on books, what’s yours?*
ALP

PREVIEW: (Tentatively, Monday, April 1^st 2013): It’s April 1^st – you know what that means. It’s April Fools’ Day. I will do an update. Please come by. Maybe, I will surprise you with a prank. Let’s have some fun! (Editor’s Note: This is part of a continuing series on holidays and special dates.)

 “Books are life; and they make life better!*”
P.S. Big News: There are big changes coming to my blog – Please stay tuned.
P.P.S. #1 I have a TWITTER page. Consider becoming a follower? Visit www.twitter.com –   saveandread
P.P.S. #2 I also have a FACEBOOK page. Consider becoming a friend? Visit: www.facebook.com – Alp Save Andread – please check it out.
P.P.S. #3 I am on Linkedin. Consider becoming a connection? Visit  www.linkedin.com – Antoinette La Posta
*TM/© 2011, 2012, 2013 Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved.
===============================================================

PAGE 2

NEED SOMETHING FURTHER? TRY SAVE AND READ* (S&R*) .

ONE –A “S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTE *”

S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTE #1: Last Supper?
“Wilson Mizner was once married to Myra Moore Yerkes, an enormously wealthy woman who happened to own a multi-million-dollar art collection. One day Mizner, in desperate need of cash, pulled a depiction of The Last Supper from the living-room wall – and sold it.

His wife, understandably irate, demanded to know what had happened to the masterpiece. “Some masterpiece,” Mizner snorted. “I only got fifty bucks a plate!” (Source: Anecdotage) – http://www.anecdotage.com/index.php?aid=7126)

S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTE #2: Dustin Hoffman: Home for Passover
“After studying music for several years at Santa Monica City College and the Los Angeles Conservatory of Music, Dustin Hoffman, while visiting his aunt’s home for Passover, boldly announced his intention to become an actor. His aunt’s reply? “You can’t,” she said. “You’re not good-looking enough!” (Source: Anecdotage) – http://www.anecdotage.com/index.php?aid=19593)

S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTE #3: Patrick Pearse: Sticky Situation
“Sunday April 23rd, 1916, marked the first day of Patrick Pearse’s famous Easter Uprising in Dublin, Ireland. [Some sources say April 24th]. Things did not get off to an auspicious start:  

First, 10,500 of the 12,000 members of the Irish Volunteer Force, confused by a host of continually changing orders, failed to arrive. Nonetheless, Pearse welcomed those who had arrived, read out the “Proclamation of the Republic,” and ordered that copies of that manifesto be posted around the city. He was promptly informed that such a campaign would not be possible. Why not? The military council, it seemed, had forgotten to buy some glue!” (Source: Anecdotage) – http://www.anecdotage.com/index.php?aid=4258) 

ONE –B  “I SHOULD HAVE SAID THAT!*” – QUOTES

S & R* QUOTE #1: Pearl S. Buck
“The person who tries to live alone will not succeed as a human being. His heart withers if it does not answer another heart. His mind shrinks away if he hears only the echoes of his own thoughts and finds no other inspiration.” (Source: Wisdom Quotes) – http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/life/index10.html) 

S & R* QUOTE #2: Victor Frankl

“We can discover this meaning in life in three different ways: (1) by doing a deed; (2) by experiencing a value; and (3) by suffering.” (Source: Wisdom Quotes) – http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/life/index10.html) 

S & R* QUOTE #3: Emily Dickinson

“If I can stop one heart from breaking,
I shall not live in vain.
If I can ease one life the aching,
Or cool one pain,
Or help one fainting robin
Unto his nest again,
I shall not live in vain.” (Source: Wisdom Quotes) – http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/life/index10.html)

TWO – “IT WORDS FOR ME!*”

For today, my word/phrase(s) are: “Holiday”, “Easter”; “Passover”; “Passover Seder, “Holi”, “Navruz”, “The Last Supper”; “ etc.

Holiday
“A holiday is a day designated as having special significance for which individuals, a government, or a religious group have deemed that observation is warranted. It is generally an official (more common) or unofficial observance of religious, national, or cultural significance, often accompanied by celebrations or festivities.”
(Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holy_day

Easter
“Easter (Old English: &#274;ostre; Greek: &#928;&#940;&#963;&#967;&#945;, Paskha; Aramaic and Hebrew: &#1508;&#1462;&#1468;&#1505;&#1495;&#1488;&#8206;
Pas&#7717;a,) is the central feast in the Christian liturgical year.[1]

According to the Canonical gospels, Jesus rose from the dead on the third day after his crucifixion. Some [who?] Christians celebrate this resurrection on Easter Day or Easter Sunday [2] (also Resurrection Day or Resurrection Sunday), two days after Good Friday and three days after Maundy Thursday. The chronology of his death and resurrection is variously interpreted to be between AD 26 and 36, traditionally 33.
Easter also refers to the season of the church year called Eastertide or the Easter Season. Traditionally the Easter Season lasted for the forty days from Easter Day until Ascension Day. The first week of the Easter Season is known as Easter Week or the Octave of Easter. The week from Palm Sunday to Easter is known as Holy Week. Easter also marks the end of Lent, a season of fasting, prayer, and penance.

Easter is a moveable feast, meaning it is not fixed in relation to the civil calendar. It occurs during the spring, in and around the month of April. Easter is linked to the Jewish Passover by much of its symbolism, as well as by its position in the calendar. In most European languages the feast called Easter in English is termed by the words for passover in those languages and in the older English versions of the Bible the term Easter was the term used to translate passover.[3][4]”
(Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Easter

Passover
“Passover (Hebrew, Yiddish: &#1508;&#1462;&#1468;&#1505;&#1463;&#1495; Pesach, Tiberian: [pesa&#295;]  ( listen), Modern Hebrew: Pesah, Pesakh, Yiddish: Peysekh, Paysakh, Paysokh) is a Jewish holy day and festival. It commemorates the story of the Exodus, in which the ancient Israelites were freed from slavery in Egypt. Passover begins on the 15th day of the month of Nisan, which is spring in the Northern Hemisphere, and is celebrated for seven or eight days. It is one of the most widely observed Jewish holidays. In the narrative of the Exodus, the Bible tells that God helped the Children of Israel escape slavery in Egypt by inflicting ten plagues upon the Egyptians before Pharaoh would release his Israelite slaves; the tenth and worst of the plagues was the slaughter of the first-born. The Israelites were instructed to mark the doorposts of their homes with the blood of a spring lamb and, upon seeing this, the spirit of the Lord passed over these homes, hence the term “passover”.[1] When Pharaoh freed the Israelites, it is said that they left in such a hurry that they could not wait for bread to rise. In commemoration, for the duration of Passover no leavened bread is eaten, for which reason it is called “The Festival of the Unleavened Bread”.[2] Matzo (flat unleavened bread) is the primary symbol of the holiday.” (Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Passover

Passover Seder
“The Passover Seder (Hebrew: &#1505;&#1461;&#1491;&#1462;&#1512;&#8206; [&#712;sede&#641;], “order, arrangement”; Yiddish: Sayder) is a Jewish ritual feast that marks the beginning of the Jewish holiday of Passover. It is conducted on the evenings of the 14th day of Nisan in the Hebrew calendar, and on the 15th by traditionally observant Jews living outside Israel. This corresponds to late March or April in the Gregorian calendar. The Seder is a ritual performed by a community or by multiple generations of a family, involving a retelling of the story of the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt. This story is in the Book of Exodus (Shemot) in the Hebrew Bible. The Seder itself is based on the Biblical verse commanding Jews to retell the story of the Exodus from Egypt: “You shall tell your son on that day, saying, ‘It is because of what the LORD did for me when I came out of Egypt.’” (Exodus 13:8) Traditionally, families and friends gather in the evening to read the text of the Haggadah, an ancient work derived from the Mishnah (Pesahim 10).[1][2] The Haggadah contains the narrative of the Israelite exodus from Egypt, special blessings and rituals, commentaries from the Talmud, and special Passover songs. Seder customs include drinking four cups of wine, eating matza, partaking of symbolic foods placed on the Passover Seder Plate, and reclining in celebration of freedom.[3] The Seder is performed in much the same way by Jews all over the world.” (Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Passover_Seder

Holi

“Holi (होली), is a spring religious festival celebrated by Hindus. It is primarily observed in India, Nepal, Sri Lanka,^[1] and countries with large Indic diaspora populations, such as Suriname, Malaysia, Guyana, South Africa, Trinidad, United Kingdom, United States, Mauritius, and Fiji. In West Bengal and Orissa of India it is known as Dolyatra (Doul Jatra) (Bengali: দোলযাত্রা), or Basanta-Utsav (“spring festival”)(Bengali: বসন্তোৎসব), . The most celebrated Holi is that of the Braj region, in locations connected to the Lord Krishna: Mathura, Vrindavan, Nandagaon, and Barsana. These places have become tourist destinations during the festive season of Holi, which lasts here up to sixteen days.^[2]

The main day, Holi, also known as Dhuli Vandana in Sanskrit, also Dhulheti, Dhulandi or Dhulendi, is celebrated by people throwing coloured powder and coloured water at each other. Bonfires are lit on the eve of the festival, also known as Holika Dahan (burning of Holika) or Chhoti Holi (little Holi). The bonfires are lit in memory of the miraculous escape that young Prahlad accomplished when Demoness Holika, sister of Hiranyakashipu, carried him into the fire. Holika was burnt but Prahlad, a staunch devotee of god Vishnu, escaped without any injuries due to his unshakable devotion. Holika Dahan is referred to as Kama Dahanam in South India.” (Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holi

Navruz (Nowruz)

“For Coptic New Year, see Nayrouz. For other uses, see Nowruz (disambiguation).Nowrūz (Persian: نوروز, IPA: [nouˈɾuːz], originally “New Light”) is the name of the New Year in Iranian calendars and the corresponding traditional celebrations.^[5] Nowruz is also widely referred to as the Persian New Year.^[6][7][8][9]

Nowruz is celebrated and observed by Iranic peoples and the related cultural continent and has spread in many other parts of the world, including parts of Central Asia, Caucasus, South Asia, Northwestern China, the Crimea and some groups in the Balkans.

Nowruz marks the first day of spring and the beginning of the year in Iranian calendar. It is celebrated on the day of the astronomical vernal equinox, which usually occurs on March 21 or the previous/following day depending on where it is observed. As well as being a Zoroastrian holiday and having significance amongst the Zoroastrian ancestors of modern Iranians, the same time is celebrated in parts of the South Asian sub-continent as the new year. The moment the Sun crosses the celestial equator and equalizes night and day is calculated exactly every year and Iranian families gather together to observe the rituals.

Originally being a Zoroastrian festival, and the holiest of them all, Nowruz is believed to have been invented by Zoroaster himself, although there is no clear date of origin.^[10] Since the Achaemenid era the official year has begun with the New Day when the Sun leaves the zodiac of Pisces and enters the zodiacal sign of Aries, signifying the Spring Equinox.” (Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Navruz

The Last Supper 

“According to Christian belief, The Last Supper is the final meal that Jesus Christ shared with his Twelve Apostles in Jerusalem before his crucifixion.[1] The Last Supper provides the scriptural basis for the ceremony known as “the Eucharist”, “communion” or “the Lord’s Supper.” (Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Last_Supper

THREE– STUDY/STATISTICS:

FOUR – BONUS ARTICLES

S & R* NEWS ALERT* #1: Make more memories this Easter season

“Easter traditions make fond memories that can last a lifetime. Traditions are something children look forward to every year, whether it be receiving their favorite chocolate or creating their favourite Easter crafts. Here are some ideas on what you can do to make this Easter more memorable than ever:

Give the gift of giving back 

Sometimes the most rewarding feeling comes from making another person happy. One example is on the Kinder Canada Facebook page. There, on the Joy to Share program, you can donate and support the Children’s Miracle Network and its 14 member hospitals across Canada. You will be helping a child like Olivia, who suffers from a rare blood disorder called Pearson’s Syndrome and receives special care from the Janeway Children’s Health and Rehabilitation Centre in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Taste the holidays 

Easter is known for its egg hunts and chocolate bunnies. With the season fast approaching, it’s important to stock up on all of your favorite chocolate treats. This year, add brand new surprises like the Kinder Mix with Plush Toy. It includes a variety of treats plus a plush bunny or lamb.

Break out your creative side for some crafty fun 

Set the kids up for some craft time. Create your own Easter bunny cards, decorate Easter eggs, or paint pots for some spring planting. Share these crafts with family, friends, or even someone in the community who needs a pick-me-up.”

www.newscanada.com

S & R* NEWS ALERT* #2: Tips on how to help others this Easter season

“Easter can be a magical time of year filled with eggs, crafts, and family traditions. Share the joy of the Easter season by encouraging your children to get involved in their community. Helping people not only has a positive impact on your child, but also the lives of others in your community.

Here are some tips on how you and your family can help better your community:

Plan a Volunteer Day 

Pick an organization and plan a family volunteer day. Suggest serving food at a soup kitchen or planting flowers for the elderly. Volunteering is a rewarding experience for all involved that will help your child realize that even one person can make the world of difference in your community.

Clean a local park 

We all wish for a brighter and cleaner future for our children, so why not let them play a part in shaping this change? Pick a day to go to the nearest park or playground and organize a cleanup of the area. Bring a few bags to collect garbage and recycling you might surprise yourself on how many cans you find.

Support an organization that gives back 

Some organizations are standouts. This Easter season, for example, click on the Kinder Facebook page and join the Joy to Share program, which supports Children’s Miracle Network and its 14 member hospitals across Canada. You can help children like 2-year-old Olivia, who suffers from a rare blood disorder called Pearson’s Syndrome and receives special care from the Janeway Children’s Health and Rehabilitation Centre in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Share Easter treats with others 

Easter would not be complete without chocolate. Plan an extra special Easter egg hunt with your family and neighbourhood kids. For guidance, specialists at Kinder say their egg hunt kit includes a variety of treats that are perfect for sharing.”

www.newscanada.com

*TM/© 2011, 2012, 2013 PrPractitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved

ST PATRICK’S DAY: I am dreaming about a parade or a party, dress, decorations, drinks, etc. !* – UPDATE MARCH 2013

Vol. 3, No. 49, Monday, March 4th, 2013

TITLE: “ST. PATRICK’S DAY: I am dreaming about a parade or a party, dress,  decorations, drinks, etc. !*”

INTRODUCTION

What is St. Patrick’s Day?  It’s the celebration of St Patrick, Ireland’s patron saint and it’s coming on March 17th. My topic is then getting into the celebration of St- Patrick’s Day. My book of the week is “The Wearing of the Green: A History of St Patrick’s Day” [Hardcover] by Mike Cronin (Author), Daryl Adair (Author) (Editor’s Note: This is another post in a continuing series on special dates and holidays.)

PREVIEW (Sunday, March 18 2012): As well, I am thinking about school dress codes, the good, the bad and the ugly! Some say: “The tie and grey flannel pant/skirt, white shirt/blouse, cardigan, outfit looks trim and proper, building school spirit. Others say: “It’s stuffy and pretentious building uniformity. It’s better to have fashion and putting the best foot forward even in grade school of course in high school It’s about learning. Afraid about prefect-monitors not the fashion police …. Join the debate.  (Editor’s Note: This is another post in a continuing series on family, child rearing and education.  Sorry for any inconvenience from the post re-scheduling.)

MY LIFE & TIMES*

As a child, St. Patrick’s Day was not observed at my parent’s house; but at school, it was a big day. I have a sweet class memory of singing, “When Irish Eyes are Smiling”.

As an adult, although not a family celebration, I have learned to appreciate this holiday – I always make an effort to wear something green on St. Patrick’s Day.

In my single days, I looked forward to spending St. Patrick’s Day with my friends.  Our local Irish society organizes the parade and other events. If possible, I tried to attend something. It was usually great fun.

As well, I vividly remember how an Irish born professor, with whom I used to work, made such a big deal of St. Patrick’s Day.  Every year, he came to work in a green outfit, a big green hat, buttons on his jacket with Irish expressions.  After his classes, he left to meet up with his friends at the pubs and bars. I loved his spirit – it was a boost from the everyday.

I am also very fond of Irish coffee and made it often for my friends.  I substituted the whip cream with vanilla ice cream.  It’s delicious!  That reminds me, I should make it this year – it’s the perfect occasion, don’t you think?

Update St Patrick’s Day – March 4, 2013

This year, I made a to-do list.  I plan to:

(a)    Wear something green that day … like a kerchief.

(b)   Go to the store and buy St Paddies day decorations.  It’s actually more for my grand children so that they will pick up on the symbols of the day like four leaf clovers, leprechauns (he is a small mischievous sprite in Irish folklore), soft green top hats, etc.  The idea is when the kids get excited, the adults will also get into the mood for the festivities.

(c)    Make Irish coffee.

(d)   Find a holiday song just right for this day – for me, it’s “When Irish eyes are smiling”.

(e)    Take in the St. Patrick’s parade. We have a great parade of long standing in our city. If it’s a nice day and the timing works out, maybe we will go out for the afternoon.

Indeed, on this day, everybody is a little bit Irish.

THE AUTHORS

Mike Cronin

In 1994, Mike Cronin obtained a Ph.D. in history from Oxford University.  At present, he works as Academic Director at Centre of Irish Programmes at Boston College, Dublin.  His interests are in the study of 20th-century Irish history and politics of sport. 

Daryl Adair

In 1995, Daryl Adair obtained a Ph.D. in history from the Flinders University of South Australia.  He teaches in Sports Humanities in the Centre for Sports Studies, University of Canberra, Australia.  His background is in Australian history with an interest in public spectacles. 

SERIES/COLLECTION

Books/Articles:

Mike Cronin

Several are:

• 2011 – The Gaa County By County
• 2011 – Places We Play Ireland’s Sporting Heritage
• 2011 – Irish History for Dummies
• 2011 – Doesn’t Time Fly Aer Lingus – It’s History
• 2011 – A History of Ireland
• 2010 – The Gaa a People’s History
• 2009 – Irische Geschichte Fur Dummies
• 2007 – Sport and Physical Education the Key Concepts
• 2006 – The Wearing of the Green a History of St Patrick’s Day
• 2006 – Irish History for Dummies
• 2003 – A History of Ireland
• 2002 – Sport and Physical Education the Key Concepts
• 2001 – A History of Ireland

• 1999 – The Blueshirts and Irish Politics
• 1999 – Sport and Nationalism in Ireland 

Daryl Adair

Several are:

• 2006 –  The Wearing of the Green a History of St Patrick’s Day
• 1997-98 Sport in Australian History [Australian Retrospectives] (With Wray Vamplew)
• 2002 – Sport Tourism (with Brent Ritchie)

THE BOOK: “The Wearing of the Green: A History of St Patrick’s Day” [Hardcover] by Mike Cronin (Author), Daryl Adair (Author)

St. Patrick’s Day has a rich history. The saint for whom the day is named is St. Patrick – he converted the pagan Irish to Christianity in the fifth century. The date March 17^th is believed to be the date of St. Patrick’s death. In 18th-century America, a day in commemoration was started by the Protestants, including Irish officers in the British army. Their festivities involved feasting and dancing.  In the 19^th century, there were parades – they became the means to be recognized and demonstrate the growing influence of the Irish. The parades have become very popular.  The parade in Dublin promotes tourism and Irish industry. The authors call attention to the criticism that St. Patrick’s Day has become a day for self-indulgence and alcohol, portraying negative Irish stereotypes: fighting and vocal drunks. For me, I reject stereotypes, whatever and wherever it arises; and so should you.  People are people and should be evaluated one-by-one as per the quality of the person. St. Patrick’s Day is for everyone because celebrating something good along with out brother human beings is right.  I also like having fun.

CONCLUSION

Everyone should make St. Patrick’s Day a special day.   

Personal Comments

I say:

• Let’s celebrate with our Irish friends on St. Patrick Day.  In most cities, there are events and festivities. The atmosphere is one of partying. Bars and pubs are very popular on this special day.
• It is also wonderful to celebrate cultures other than you own.  You learn to appreciate our cultural diversity and the uniqueness of other people.  No matter what your ethnic background – on St. Patrick’s Day, everybody is Irish.
• With all the downers of everyday life, this day is about having fun.  And I add: “Let’s party!!!”
• And oh yes, I really love Irish coffee.

The Point

There are many reasons to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Regardless of the one you give, the important thing is to enjoy the day!

ANTOINETTE’S TIP SHEET*

All reveillers, even if you’re not Irish, should:

1. Take out a green outfit and add a green accessory like a scarf or a tie;
2. Put on a hat, pin or button with a saying like “Kiss me, I’m Irish”;
3. Use, in your conversational speech, such words/phrases, like leprechauns, 4-leaf clovers, horseshoes; etc.
4. Look for companies like Google getting into the spirit in its unique way; 
5. Look for a four- leaf clover;
6. Celebrate by going to some festivities.

• Attend the parade and then go to a party; and
• Have a night cap at an Irish bar;

7. Celebrate with a home party; and

• Invite some friends;
• Put up some green holiday streamers/decorations; 
• Play some favorite Irish music – it’ll set the atmosphere;
• Serve up some traditional Irish foods; but
• Don’t forget the Irish whiskey – make some Irish coffee.

8. Lift your glass and make a St. Patrick’s Day toast;

Quick, I am turning green…Oh, not to worry, St- Patrick’s Day is coming on March 17th. What do you expect that I’m in the pink? For the Irish in all of us, let’s celebrate! Cheers………Happy St. Patrick’s Day!!!

And that’s my thought of the week on books, what’s yours?*
Take it out for a spin and tell me if you agree.
ALP
“Books are life; and they make life better!*”
P.S. Big News: There are big changes coming to my blog – Please stay tuned.
P.P.S. #1 I have a TWITTER page. Consider becoming a follower? Visit www.twitter.com –   saveandread
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*TM/© 2012 Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved.
===============================================================

ANNEX I: NEED SOMETHING FURTHER? TRY AN ANECDOTE OR A QUOTE:

S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTAGE #1: Grauman’s Chinese Theatre
“Sid Grauman began construction on his sumptuous Chinese Theatre (at 6925 Hollywood Boulevard) in January 1927. One day shortly thereafter, Norma Talmadge accidentally walked across a wet slab of cement… and inadvertently inspired the tradition for which the theater is famous: Hundreds of celebrity handprints and footprints (and “otherprints”) now endow the concrete forecourt and Grauman’s Chinese Theatre (which opened in May 1927)  remains among the most popular tourist attractions in Southern California.”
(Source: Anecdotage) – http://www.anecdotage.com/browse.php?action=search)

S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTAGE #2: Larry Cohen: Adventures in Trespassing
“Screenwriter/director Larry Cohen shot many scenes on private property without seeking proper permission. He once had Billy Dee Williams make an escape on the Staten Island ferry, shot a fistfight at the skating rink at Rockefeller Center, staged the decapitation of a window washer on the eighty-eighth floor of the Empire State Building, and shot the printing of newspapers in the basement of the New York Times Building. For the latter feat, Cohen simply crept in and shot until he was ejected by security guards.

[At one point during the filming of God Told Me To (a 1976 film about a police detective who, in the course of investigating a series of murders, discovers that his sibling is a hermaphrodite deity), Cohen had the comedian Andy Kaufman impersonate a police officer, join the St. Patrick’s Day parade as it marched down Fifth Avenue, pull out a fake gun, and start firing into the crowd. “I’m holding them back, saying, ‘He’s an actor, not a cop,'” Cohen recalled of a group actual police officers on duty that day. “I kept him from being killed!”]” (Source: Anecdotage) –  http://www.anecdotage.com/index.php?aid=19092)

 S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTAGE #3: Strawberry
“In March 2000, New York Yankees outfielder Darryl Strawberry failed yet another drug test. “Strawberry has failed so many drug tests,” Jay Leno remarked, “he’s being inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame!”

[“A man was arrested for selling crack dyed green for St. Patrick’s Day,” Leno later reported, adding: “The man’s name was Darryl O’Strawberry.”]”
(Source: Anecdotage) – http://www.anecdotage.com/index.php?aid=8415)

S & R* QUOTE #1: Anais Nin

“Throw your dreams into space like a kite, and you do not know what it will bring back: a new life, a new friend, a new love, a new country.”

(Source: Wisdom Quotes) –  http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/life/)

S & R* QUOTE #2: Ralph Waldo Emerson

“He who is not everyday conquering some fear has not learned the secret of life.”(Source: Wisdom Quotes) – http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/life/)

 S & R* QUOTE #3: Marian Anderson

“[I]f you have a purpose in which you can believe, there’s no end to the amount of things you can accomplish.” (Source: Wisdom Quotes) – http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/life/)

ANNEX II
SCHEDULE I
“IT WORDS FOR ME!*”
“For today, my word/phrase(s) are:  “St. Patrick’s Day”; etc.

St. Patrick’s Day

“Saint Patrick’s Day (Irish: Lá Fhéile Pádraig; Ulster-Scots: Saunt Petherick’s Day)^[2] is a cultural and religious holiday celebrated internationally on 17 March. It commemorates Saint Patrick (c. AD 387–461), the most commonly recognised of the patron saints of Ireland, and the arrival of Christianity in Ireland.^[1]”(Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia) –  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Patrick’s_Day)

SCHEDULE II
STUDY/STATISTICS:

“It commemorates Saint Patrick (c. AD 387–461), the most commonly recognised of the patron saints of Ireland, and the arrival of Christianity in Ireland.^[1] It is observed by the Catholic Church, the Anglican Communion (especially the Church of Ireland),^[3] the Eastern Orthodox Church and Lutheran Church. Saint Patrick’s Day was made an official feast day in the early seventeenth century, and has gradually become a secular celebration of Irish culture in general.^[4]

The day is generally characterized by the attendance of church services,^[4][5] wearing of green attire^[6] and the lifting of Lenten restrictions on eating and drinking alcohol,^[6][7][8] which is often proscribed during the rest of the season.^[4][6][7][8]

Saint Patrick’s Day is a public holiday in the Republic of Ireland,^[9] Northern Ireland,^[10

Little is known of Patrick’s early life, though it is known that he was born in Roman Britain in the fourth century, into a wealthy Romano-British family. His father and grandfather were deacons in the Christian church. At the age of sixteen, he was kidnapped by Irish raiders and taken captive to Ireland as a slave.^[12] It is believed he was held somewhere on the west coast of Ireland, possibly Mayo, but the exact location is unknown. According to his Confession, he was told by God in a dream to flee from captivity to the coast, where he would board a ship and return to Britain. Upon returning, he quickly joined the Church in Auxerre in Gaul and studied to be a priest.^{[citation needed]}

Originally, the colour associated with Saint Patrick was blue. Over the years the colour green and its association with Saint Patrick’s day grew.^[13] Green ribbons and shamrocks were worn in celebration of St Patrick’s Day as early as the 17th century.^[14] Saint Patrick is said to have used the shamrock, a three-leaved plant, to explain the Holy Trinity to the pagan Irish, and the wearing and display of shamrocks and shamrock-inspired designs have become a ubiquitous feature of the day.^[15][16

Saint Patrick’s feast day, as a kind of national day, was already being celebrated by the Irish in Europe in the ninth and tenth centuries. In later times he became more and more widely known as the patron of Ireland.^[17

In 1903, Saint Patrick’s Day became an official public holiday in Ireland.” (Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Patrick’s_Day)

SCHEDULE III
S & R* NEWS ALERT* #1: Uncover the psychology of scent

“Clean crisp air, fresh cut grass and fragrant florals are a few of the scents that evoke fond memories, as they mark the changing of the seasons.

It’s a little known fact that scent is the number one memory trigger. It’s just one of the many effects that scent has on the human mind. A fragrance has the alluring ability to heighten your senses, instantaneously activate your memories and affect your mood.

Scent plays an active role in daily life, to the point where it can even affect our mood and work performance, say specialists in this field. Releasing a scent into the home, office or any environment can strongly impact the ambiance of the space and have a positive effect on the people within it.

When it comes to the matter of releasing these scents in your environment, wickless candles are a hugely popular choice, says Heidi Thompson, president of leading brand, Scentsy. The specially formulated wax holds more fragrance oil resulting in a better scent throw, which means the fragrance permeates the space more thoroughly and our stylish warmers emit a lovely glow. Because the wax is heated in a warmer and there is no open flame, they’re much safer than regular candles.

Thompson says it’s easy to set the right mood with one of 80 home fragrance wax bars. Here is snapshot of her ideas with more information at www.scentsy.ca:

Romance: Try Vanilla Cream a sensual, sweet fragrance that sets the mood for romance.

Energy: Try Sunkissed Citrus an energizing scent, perfect to help you wake up and kick-start your day.

Relaxation: Try French Lavender promotes calm and relaxation and will help you unwind after a hectic day at the office.

Comfort: Try Sugar Cookie for anyone who has delighted in the fragrance of hand-made baked goods by mom or grandma, this scent would bring back feelings of warmth and comfort. “ www.newscanada.com

S & R* NEWS ALERT* #2: Why the human body needs fruit

“Fruit, plus the vitamin C it contains, is so important to our nutrition, Health Canada recommends no less than five servings of fruit and vegetables every day. Simply put, this food group is essential to sustain life.

Still, the majority of Canadians don’t eat enough. A recent Statistics Canada report showed that just 43 per cent of us (aged 12 and older) are actually eating the recommended level.

Why five servings?

Five may seem like a lot, but it certainly underscores the importance of the food group. Dietitians will also remind us that since human beings do need to eat anyway, several times a day, why not pay attention to the right choices, for both good taste and for good fuel?

The right’ fuel comes from an array of foods and those should be consumed in the right portions and in the right amounts every day, says Livio Ghizzardi at Dole Canada, a leading name in fruit products. It’s important to know that the vitamins, fibre, and disease-fighting elements found in fruit and vegetables cannot be duplicated in other foods.

Ghizzardi points out that his company works hard to make fruit more readily available for Canadians. Now, for example, single-serve fruit cups are at our fingertips and these items could so conveniently add more fruit to our daily diet.

Do it especially in the morning, he says. Our research shows that 23 per cent of Canadians have only a beverage like coffee or juice, and 8 per cent skip breakfast altogether. So instead, why not take a fruit cup with you from the fridge?

We also found that 77 per cent of respondents snack in the afternoon, and more than half crave something sweet. In that case, why not grab a fruit cup that also contains more substantial ingredients like whole grain oats? You can even put our newest product, Fruit ‘n Crisp in the microwave to give it a home-baked taste and to satisfy those cravings for something a little more indulgent.”www.newscanada.com

*TM/© 2012 Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved