Archive for October, 2011

HALLOWEEN PARTY, COSTUMES, GAMES: I say boo!*

Vol. 2,  No. 23, October 30, 2011

TITLE: “HALLOWEEN PARTY, COSTUMES, GAMES: I say boo!*”

INTRODUCTION

Greetings … this evening is  Halloween Eve, the night before Halloween,  My (children’s) book of the week is: “My First Halloween” [Board book] by Tomie Depaola (Author). My bonus book is “Halloween: The Best of Martha Stewart Living [Paperback]” from Martha Stewart Living.  (Editor’s Note: This is another in my continuing series on holidays and special dates.)

PREVIEW: Next week, I will give you an update on a post commemorating November 11th – Veterans Day in the U.S. and Remembrance Day in Canada, U.K., etc. (Commonwealth). Be there! It’s the right thing to take the time to show our respects.

MY LIFE & TIMES*

When I was a child, Halloween was an exciting day for me.  I liked to dress up and go trick-or-treating with my brothers.  At the end of my Halloween outing, I stood by the door with my mother giving out treats to other Halloween kids.  Even after my siblings and I left home, my mother still gave out treats to kids. 

Some people consider Halloween an evil day. Pope Benedict XVI has declared it anti-Christian and dangerous. Halloween  has Celtic origin – it marks the end of harvest and the beginning of winter.  It also has strong roots in paganism.  The word, “ghoulish” comes to mind. It is defined as a legendary evil being that robs graves and feeds on corpses.  Although the Catholic Church disapproves of Halloween, it focuses on  “All Saint’s Day”, which is on November 1st  and on “All Souls’ Day” which falls on November 2nd. Growing up, I remember my mother on October 31, lighting candles for loved ones who had passed away .  It was customary in her culture and the belief was that spirits of the dead might visit.

When my daughters were growing up they also went trick-or-treating on Halloween.  They planned for weeks what costumes they would wear.  On their return from Halloween night, they also helped give out treats to other kids.  When they were teenagers, they no longer went trick or treating, but partied with their friends. 

Now my grandchildren are being introduced to Halloween.  They both have costumes and my daughter plans to take them to a community event for kids. As an adult, I always enjoyed the atmosphere.  Although I was not one to dress up for Halloween, I went to parties where people wore costumes; it was always great fun.  It’s interesting to see adults put a lot of effort and expense into a Halloween costume.  It’s also a night where you can be whomever you want and dress as you please…and no one questions it. 

THE AUTHOR: Tomie Depaola

Depaola has been a writer for more than 35 years – also an illustrator. He is credited with more than  225 books with over 15 million copies sold. He is the holder of honorary doctoral degrees from the University of Connecticut, Georgetown University and Pratt Institute. He is highly regarded in the greater book community – he has received numerous awards: (a) Smithson Medal from the Smithsonian Institution; (b) Kerlan Award from the University of Minnesota; (c) Regina Medal from the Catholic Library Association; (d) Laura Ingalls Wilder 2011 Award for Lifetime Literary Achievement in Children’s Literature; and (e)  New Hampshire’s Governor’s Arts Award of Living Treasure. When it comes to children’s books, Depaola is a superstar. I think my Book of the Week, “My First Halloween” is a real gem.

SERIES/COLLECTION

Tomie Depaola
Books/Articles:
He is credited with more than  225 books. Some are:
Books

The Strega Nona Series

  • Strega Nona
  • Strega Nona Her Story
  • Strega Nona Meets Her Match
  • Strega Nona Takes a Vacation
  • Strega Nona’s Magic Lesson
  • Brava, Strega Nona!
  • Strega Nona’s Harvest
  • Merry Christmas, Strega Nona
  • Strega Nona’s Gift
  • Big Anthony His Story
  • Big Anthony and the Magic Ring

Tomie’s Memoir Series
26 Fairmount Avenue hardcover (14.99/6.99)
Here We All Are (6.99)
On My Way (5.99)
What a Year (13.99/5.99)
Things Will Never Be the Same (5.99)
I’m Still Scared (13.99/5.99)
Why? (14.99/5.99)
For the Duration (15.99)

Tomie’s ‘Big’ Books
Christmas Remembered (19.99/9.99)
Front Porch Tales and North Country Whoppers (17.99)
Joy to the World (24.99)
Tomie dePaola’s Book of Bible Stories (27.99/12.99)
Tomie dePaola’s Favorite Nursery Tales (25.99)
Tomie dePaola’s Mother Goose (25.99)

Tomie’s Stories about Growing Up and His Family
The Art Lesson (16.99/6.99)
The Baby Sister (5.99)
My Mother Is So Smart (16.99)
Nana Upstairs Nana Downstairs (6.99)
Stagestruck (16.99/6.99)
Tom (6.99)
Tony’s Bread (6.99)
Watch Out for Chick Feet in Your Soup (6.99)

Books of Legends, Folktales and Stories
Adelita A Mexican Cinderella Story (6.99)
Andy That’s My Name (6.99)
Charlie Needs a Cloak (5.99)
The Cloud Book (17.95/6.95)
Comic Adventures of Old Mother Hubbard (7.00)
Cookie’s Week (5.99)
Erandi’s Brainds (16.99/6.99)
Fin M’Coul (6.95)
Four Friends at Christmas (12.99)
Four Friends in Autumn (14.95)
Four Friends in Summer (14.99)
Hey Diddle Diddle and Other Mother Goose Rhymes (6.99)
Jamie O’Rourke and the Big Potato (6.99)
Jamie O’Rourke and the Pooka (6.99)
Knight and the Dragon (17.99/6.99)
Legend of the Bluebonnet (17.99/6.99)
Legend of the Indian Paintbrush (17.99/7.99)
Legend of the Persian Carpet (16.99)
Little Grunt and the Big Egg (6.99)
Mice Squeak We Speak (5.99)
Mysterious Giant of Barletta (7.00)
Now One Foot, Now the Other (7.99)
Oliver Button is a Sissy (15.99/7.00)
Pancakes for Breakfast (14.95/6.00)
The Popcorn Book (17.95/6.95)
The Quicksand Book (17.95/6.95)
The Quilt Story (5.99)
Smart about Art: Frida Kahlo (15.99/5.99)
Shh, We’re Writing the Constitution (6.99)
T-Rex Is Missing (3.99)
The Tale of Rabbit and Coyote (6.99)

Books of Religious or Holiday Stories
Angels Angels Everywhere (15.99)
The Clown of God (16.00/7.99)
Francis Poor Man of Assisi (18.95)
Get Dressed Santa (a board book 6.99)
Guess Who’s Coming to Santa’s for Dinner? (16.99)
Joy to the World ($24.99)
Legend of Old Befana An Italian Christmas Story (17.00/7.00)
Legend of the Poinsettia (17.99/6.99)
Miracles of Jesus (6.99)
My First Bible Stories (a board book 5.99)
My First Chanukah (a board book 5.99)
My First Christmas (a board book 5.99)
My First Christmas Carols (a board book 5.99)
My First Easter (a board book 5.99)
My First Halloween (a board book 5.99)
My First Passover (a board book 5.99)
My First Thanksgiving (a board book 5.99)
The Night before Christmas (6.95)
The Night before Christmas (a board book 8.95)
Night of Las Posadas (16.99/6.99)
Pascual and the Kitchen Angels (5.99)
Patrick Patron Saint of Ireland (17.95/8.95)
The Song of Francis (16.99)
Tomie’s Little Christmas Pagent (a board book 7.99)

The Bill and Pete Books
Bill and Pete (6.99)
Bill and Pete Go Down the Nile (6.99)
Bill and Pete to the Rescue (7.99)

The Barkers
Boss for a Day (a level 1 reader 3.99)
Hide and Seek All Week (a level 1 reader 3.99)
Morgan and Moffat Go to School (13.99/5.99)
A New Barker in the House (13.99)
Trouble in the Barker’s Class (5.99)

Board Books for the Very Young
I Love You Sun, I Love You Moon (7.99)
Mary Had a Little Lamb (7.99)
Mice Squeak We Speak (6.99)
My First Fairy Tales (7.99)
My First Mother Goose (5.99)
My First Songs (5.99)
Te Amo Sol, Te Amo Luna (6.99)
Tomie’s Baa Baa Black Sheep (7.99)
Tomie’s Little Book of Poems (7.99)
Tomie’s Little Mother Goose (7.99)
Tolmie’s Mother Goose Flies Again (7.99)
Tomie’s Three Bears and Other Tales (6.99)
* “My First Halloween” [Board book] by Tomie Depaola (Author)

THE BOOK: “My First Halloween” [Board book] by Tomie Depaola (Author)

Halloween is the yearly celebration of dress-up and candy and all things scary and not so scary. It’s a lot to figure out especially if you’re a baby. What do you need? I suggest Tomie’s little board book; it’s PreSchool-…yessiree – it makes Halloween easier to understand. It explains the holiday with the date, 31st October and such activities like spooning out the pumpkin. Indeed, this book makes the point that the holiday is for all children –  what a nice thought. It looks good with Halloween’s  unofficial colors, big orange and bright black-what a contrast; the watercolor illustrations are vivid.  Wowee, it’s quite a pop! 

HALLOWEEN BONUS: Martha Stewart in print

AUTHOR: Martha Stewart

Stewart, a middle class Jersey girl became the authority of American food and style. She built a brand then an empire one jar at a time. She became a powerhouse. Her media reach went beyond print to TV programming. Her story of middle America to riches is classic Americana. Her bitchiness and  bad temper is legend. Her fall from grace, with charges and conviction – she even went to jail. She cannot be a director in a public company. But she is still Martha Stewart.
(Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) –http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha_Stewart)

SERIES/COLLECTION

Martha Stewart 
Books/Articles:
She is credited with many books. Some are:

• Martha Stewart’s Quick Cook (1983)
• Martha Stewart’s Hors D’oeuvres (1984)
• Martha Stewart’s Pies & Tarts (1985)
• Weddings (1987)
• The Wedding Planner (1988)
• Martha Stewart’s Quick Cook Menus (1988)
• Martha Stewart’s Christmas (1989)

Magazines
• Martha Stewart Living,
• Columns, magazine articles and other pieces on homemaking
Television
• Programs such as The Oprah Winfrey Show and Larry King Live.

THE BONUS BOOK:  Halloween: The Best of Martha Stewart Living [Paperback]
You think that Halloween is a fun holiday. You believe that “The Martha” knows better than most how to do it just right.If you put the two together, you know that you will get a “gold” medal Halloween. This is a good combo book where you get it all- in- one. “The Martha” first gives you “top drawer” tips in the preparations, doing the pumpkin, signage and decor, face stuff, etc.  “The Martha” then tells you how to be the scariest host and hostess with the ‘mostest’, giving a “five star” party’. This is a must read for those Halloween aficionados, who just have to get it and do it just so! Your family will enjoy the preparations and your invited guests, all “A” list ghosts, will have a ball.  

CONCLUSION

While there is some pagan origins to the festival, it doesn’t have to be seen as evil or even bad. Actually, the festivities for this holiday are good clean fun. There are no rituals – it’s a time to play. Of course, it is especially fine for children.

Personal Comments

With autumn in the air, it makes me think of Halloween.

First observation – it’s no longer a day…it’s more. (In our town, there used to be the night before – it was called “Mat Night”  when young boys would take and hide front door welcome mats.) In the weeks before, stores send out flyers promoting sales of products and specials and  clerks are busy putting up displays and stocking shelves, all befitting the last night in October. TV programs featuring this theme abound.     

Second, its popularity is a big business money maker. Big box stores sell lights and spooky inflatables. The symbols include: carving jack-o’-lanterns, straw men, making black spiders and cats, skeletons, ghosts, etc. Party stores become Halloween central, carrying a full line of costumes. This is high season for costume renters. Dollar stores have a bonanza selling everything from masks to face-painting – also favors galore for the big party night. 

Third, it’s all things good to eat. Of course, there are bagfulls of bite- size chocolates and candy. And this is about pumpkins. Removing the inside soft fruit, one can then make pumpkin pie, the October delicacy. Nutty people also dry the seeds -voila, they get pumpkin seeds. 

Fourth, it’s excitement city for the children. It’s a big decision what you’re going to be this year. Its great to go the store along with a parent to buy the costume. And putting up decorations is so much fun.  

Fifth, it has also become quite an adult celebration  They have as much fun with these festivities as the kids do.  It’s a huge theme for adults. There are many in-home events. A couple around the corner can be a great host and hostess. Single groups hold a big annual event. Halloween is a time to let go and have fun.  There are many costumes that are not evil; many are cute and quaint. It could also show homemade ingenuity. Dressing up could even be an opportunity to be who and what you want to be. 

Sixth, it’s community participation. For the protection of children, parents get together to provide a safe environment, sometimes indoors for the children. Our regional zoo even has a Halloween activity.   

The Point

Life can be very serious. Halloween is a chance to break the everyday mold. It’s the time to have good clean fun. I encourage you to get in the spirit.  

ANTOINETTE’S TIP SHEET*
if an adult into the party spirit
1. Dress-up to show ingenuity –  keep away from costumes that are evil or gory.
2. Enjoy the evening if you’re going to a Halloween party,

If with kids

1. Buy sweets to distribute to costumed children;
2. Buy or make a costume for your little spooks;
3.Give out treats with your children and make it a fun evening;
4. Check your kids’ treats on their arrival from the Halloween outing if you have your kids trick-or-treating

Trick or treat? , I say: spooky boo!

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/© 2011 Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved.
===================================================================================================
ANNEX I: NEED SOMETHING FURTHER?, TRY AN ANECDOTE OR A QUOTE:

S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTAGE #1: Van Halen & Son: Pumpkinship?
One day in kindergarten music class, Eddie Van Halen’s son began improvising. Because the students had been instructed to sing Halloween songs, however, the young man was given a ‘time out’; the young man in turn picked up a pumpkin, threw it at the teacher (narrowly missing her head) and cried, “My daddy said it’s okay!” Shortly thereafter, Van Halen Sr. got a call from the principal. “I asked
him what he [the son] was doing,” Van Halen explained, “and he said singing a different melody.” Eddie later sat his son down for a little chat: “I told him next time,” Van Halen declared, “aim better!”
(Source: www.anecdotage.com) – http://www.anecdotage.com/index.php?aid=5222

S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTAGE #2: Carson Daly: Trick or Treat
“I forgot, last year, that it was Halloween,” Carson Daly recalled in 2004. “The doorbell kept ringing and I thought, ‘Wow, I have a lot of people coming to my apartment tonight. It’s just weird.’ We had nothing to give out. I felt bad – you don’t want to shut out the light and not be there for the kids… but I had nothing in my apartment.” Fortunately Carson hatched a solution: “I just started giving them cigarettes.”
(Source: www.anecdotage.com) – http://www.anecdotage.com/index.php?aid=20421

S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTAGE #3: Hannibal
“It’s the morning after Halloween. Taped to the door of an editing room is a reduced copy of the Hannibal poster, which has been doctored with a strip of paper near Hopkins’s mouth that reads: TRICK OR TREAT. DO YOU HAVE SOMETHING I CAN EAT? “Ridley Scott emerges from a chat with editor Pietro Scalia and Dino De Laurentiis and goes right into a meeting with members of Manhattan design studio, who’ve come to pitch ideas for the film’s opening title sequence. They present Scott with storyboards offering a tour through the chambers of Lecter’s mind and discuss using the aptly named type font: Chianti
(Source: www.anecdotage.com) –  http://www.anecdotage.com/index.php?aid=7430

S & R* QUOTE #1: Ruth Fulton Benedict
The trouble with life isn’t that there is no answer, it’s that there are so many answers.
(Source:  Wisdom Quotes) –  http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/life/

S & R* QUOTE #2: Sharon Salzberg
As I go through all kinds of feelings and experiences in my journey through life — delight, surprise, chagrin, dismay — I hold this question as a guiding light: “What do I really need right now to be happy?” What I come to over and over again is that only qualities as vast and deep as love, connection and kindness will really make me happy in any sort of enduring way.
(Source:  Wisdom Quotes) – http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/life/index2.html

S & R* QUOTE #3: Barbara de Angelis
No one is in control of your happiness but you; therefore, you have the power to change anything about yourself or your life that you want to change.
(Source:  Wisdom Quotes) – http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/life/index3.html

*TM/© 2011 Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved.
——————————————————————————————————————
ANNEX II
SCHEDULE I
“IT WORDS FOR ME!*”
For today, my word/phrase(s) are: “Halloween”; “pumpkin”; etc.
Halloween
Halloween (or Hallowe’en) is an annual holiday observed on October 31, which commonly includes activities such as trick-or-treating, attending costume parties, carving jack-o’-lanterns, bonfires, apple bobbing, visiting haunted attractions, playing pranks, telling scary stories, and watching horror films.
(Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Halloween

Trick-or-treating is a customary practice for children on Halloween in many countries. Children in costumes travel from house to house in order to ask for treats such as candy (or, in some cultures, money) with the question “Trick or treat?”. The “trick” is a (usually idle) threat to perform mischief on the homeowners or their property if no treat is given.
(Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trick-or-treating

Pumpkin
A pumpkin is a gourd-like squash of the genus Cucurbita and the family Cucurbitaceae (which also includes gourds).[1] It commonly refers to cultivars of any one of the species Cucurbita pepo, Cucurbita mixta, Cucurbita maxima, and Cucurbita moschata, and is native to North America. They typically have a thick, orange or yellow shell, creased from the stem to the bottom, containing the seeds and pulp.
(Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pumpkin

SCHEDULE II
STUDY/STATISTICS:
The word Halloween is first attested in the 16th century and represents a Scottish variant of the fuller All-Hallows-Even (“evening”), that is, the night before All Hallows Day.[5] Although the phrase All Hallows is found in Old English (ealra hālgena mæssedæg, mass-day of all saints), All-Hallows-Even is itself not attested until 1556.[5]Historian Nicholas Rogers, exploring the origins of Halloween, notes that
while “some folklorists have detected its origins in the Roman feast of Pomona, the goddess of fruits and seeds, or in the festival of the dead called Parentalia, it is more typically linked to the Celtic festival of Samhain, whose original spelling was Samuin (pronounced sow-an or sow-in)”.[1] The name of the festival historically kept by the Gaels and celts in the British Isles which is derived from Old Irish and means roughly “summer’s end”.[1][2][ Trick-or-treating is a customary celebration for children on Halloween. Children go in costume from house to house, asking for treats such as candy or sometimes money, with the question, “Trick or treat?” The word “trick”
refers to a (mostly idle) “threat” to perform mischief on the homeowners or their property if no treat is given.Halloween costumes are traditionally modeled after supernatural figures such as monsters, ghosts, skeletons, witches, and devils. Over time, the costume selection extended to include popular characters from fiction, celebrities, and generic archetypes such as ninjas and princesses.
(Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Halloween)

SCHEDULE III
S & R* NEWS ALERT* #1:
Is the thought of having the kids home for the break stressing you out? Follow these tips to keep them busy and let you rest easy:
1. Get out of the house. Experts say kids need at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily. So be sure to build a ‘recess’ in to those long days at home. Choose a destination and walk there together. Spend time at the park. Or head to a local indoor playground if the weather is bad.
2. Rely on the Rec Center. Your local rec center is a great resource during school breaks. And the varied programming offers something for everyone, from arts and crafts to sports to music to swimming.
3. Make meal time a family affair. Don’t sweat it out in the kitchen alone all week. Plan a menu for meals ahead of time and get the kids involved. Be prepared with pizza dough and toppings and have them make-their-own. Pour over recipe books together and work as a team to prepare dinner. Or bakemuffins and healthy snacks to keep the junk food at bay.
4. Settle on some screen time. You know they’re going to want time on the computer so agree to a daily number in advance. But if you’re concerned that what they’re doing on line is not constructive come prepared. StickerYou.com is a Canadian company that just launched a new craft line called Make+Print Your Own Stickers. Sold at retail, it offers kids a creative online playground to design personalized stickers and print them instantly at home. The fun is two-fold. Kids spend hours creating online for hours of play
offline when they’re done. More information is available online at www.stickeryou.com
www.newscanada.com
“News Canada” <article@newscanada.com>www.newscanada.com

S & R* NEWS ALERT* #2: Grandmother shares wildlife adoption bond with grandkids
Jackie Rowe, from Hinsel, Ontario, is a strong believer in giving back to the planet and looks for ways to do so every day. She works hard to instill these values in her grandchildren, whom she sees as future protectors of the environment. How does she help get her grandkids excited about these issues? One way is through the World Wildlife Fund’s symbolic adoption program, which helps save wildlife and habitat, and provides a cuddly reminder of why it’s so important. We are all stakeholders in this planet and we all have to be caregivers. WWF’s Symbolic Adoption kits help me share those beliefs and values with others, Jackie says.Sharing these adoption kits with her grandchildren gives Jackie a chance to show what she believes in. Even at age 13, they still love receiving them.
Jackie has even found that their meaning grows as the children get older.When choosing animals for adoption, Jackie focuses on the issues she thinks are most important. Recently, she selected some polar bears because of the serious challenges facing the species due to climate change. One of the biggest hits was the emperor penguin because of movies like ‘March of the Penguins’ and ‘Happy Feet’. She took that pop culture influence and supported the fun with action through donation and education. Jackie believes that making a symbolic adoption is showing your part and passing it on to someone else. It starts with one person and is passed on to
the next. Much like lighting a torch, it just keeps growing. By symbolically adopting these animals, Jackie and her grandchildren helped
WWF save wildlife, protect vital habitat and improve the health of our planet. Along with friendly, adorable new stuffed animal friends, Jackie’s grandkids received adoption certificates and information on each species adopted. Jackie hopes that her grandkids will continue to enjoy their adopted animals and build their collections for many years to come.More information on WWF symbolic adoptions is available online at
www.wwf.ca/wwfstore.
www.newscanada.com
*TM/© 2011 Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved

Posted by on October 30th, 2011 Comments Off on HALLOWEEN PARTY, COSTUMES, GAMES: I say boo!*

FLIRTING TIPS 101 FOR GIRLS & BOYS, WOMEN & MEN: I say have fun, but be careful!*

Vol. 2,  No. 22, October 23, 2011
TITLE: “FLIRTING TIPS 101 FOR GIRLS & BOYS,   WOMEN & MEN:  I say have fun, but be careful!*”

INTRODUCTION

Today, continuing with the dating and relationship theme, I am thinking about flirting. It is a part of the dating game. My book of the week is: “The Flirting Bible: Your Ultimate Photo Guide to Reading Body Language, Getting Noticed, and Meeting More People Than You Ever Thought Possible [Paperback]” by Fran Greene (Author) (Editor’s Note: This is the next in the series on dating and relationships.)

PREVIEW: Next week, I will give you a new post on Halloween, another in my continuing series on holidays and special dates. Why don’t you come by and say: “Trick or Treat?” 

 MY LIFE & TIMES*

When I was single, flirting was my way in letting a man know that I was interested.  It was done for good fun; it was also done with serious intent.  I was looking and flirting was a way to get the message out there.

When attached,  I did not flirt- I still don’t.  I expected the same from my partner. I still do.

I have seen men in a relationship, with their partner by their side, showering other women with attention, paying them compliments and even touching them.   According to these men, they’re doing nothing wrong. I don’t agree- they are   wrong, VERY wrong.  Recently, I heard a story about a man, while his girlfriend sat in a corner, working a party room, looking to flirt with women. She eventually got fed up and started doing the same.  In his view, she was the one who was wrong.  They eventually broke up.  That showed me that flirting was not harmless.

I also remember a woman from my single days, who flirted outrageously, thinking that she was the “cat’s meow”. I felt sorry for her boyfriend who sat watching in sheer agony. I saw his sad plight on his face.    

THE AUTHOR:  Fran Greene

Greene is a flirting, dating, and relationship expert-coach. She was the former advice columnist for Match.com.  She has appeared on Dateline NBC, The Today Show, and has been featured in the New York Times, Self, and Cosmopolitan.

SERIES/COLLECTION

Books/Articles:

  • “The Flirting Bible: Your Ultimate Photo Guide to Reading Body Language, Getting Noticed, and Meeting More People Than You Ever Thought Possible [Paperback]” by Fran Greene (Author)

THE BOOK: “The Flirting Bible: Your Ultimate Photo Guide to Reading Body Language, Getting Noticed, and Meeting More People Than You Ever Thought Possible [Paperback]” by Fran Greene (Author)

Greene takes those of us looking for love,  looks right inside, fully understanding, and speaks directly to them. She knows they really want someone to love and with whom they can share their life.  She then says if love doesn’t happen on its own, there are ways to make it happen.  She defines flirting as: “…It’s a series of nonverbal and verbal actions we do when expressing our interest or an attraction to another person. Flirting is playful, non threatening and sometimes subconscious. It’s about displaying and reading body language.” (Pg. )  

The chapter roll is: “Chapter 1: Secrets of Fabulous Flirting: Move 1 -Smile to make yourself more approachable and attractive ;  Move 2 – Make eye contact to establish trust  and intimacy  eye content; Move 3 – Use the flirtateous handshake to amke an unforgettable first impression; Move 4 -Maintain proper distance and space to get close; Move 5 -Speak with appropriate body language to stand out; Move 6 – Practice the art of the flirtatious touch …; Move 7 – Learn what men do to attract a woman; Move 8 – Learn what women do to attract a man; Move 9.- Win over your flirting interest with mirroring; Move 10 – Top 10 Flirting Tips of All Time PART 2 The Move-by-Move Flirting Guide to the Verbal Language of Flirting;  Move #1 -Work the room to stand out; Move #2 – Make the first move – great opening line to find love;  Move #3 – Listen to make yourself a people magnet; Move #4 – Use flirting props; Chapter 2: Flirting Hiccups You Can Get Over them; Chapter 3: Where to Flirt -the 35 best flirting spots; Chapter 4: Flirting Finale-take the show on the road;” 

The book has merit. It will help you find your flirtatious side.  She has a reasonable program. Get with it if you are seeking your true love.

CONCLUSION

 Flirting isn’t only fun and games. It can be very significant.

Personal Comments 

Flirting can be done by either a man or woman. If flirting is a mating dance, then a flirty look is like a mating dance step.

To flirt, or not to flirt, that is a BIG question.  

Flirting could be fun if you are single. But there is always danger. Be careful for what you wish for.  

But once you’re in a relationship, there should be exclusivity.   Your partner should be your significant other …your one and only. 

The controversial question is, “Can flirting be viewed as cheating?”  No, it’s not but …  .  My rule is you can look, but don’t touch. Intentional flirting is a “No-No” and crosses the line . Repeated and aggressive flirting is a BIG “No-NO” and is a “tell tale” sign of disaster.

A person, in a committed relationship, that needs to flirt no matter the consequences, is probably someone with very little self-confidence.  That person needs to reassure himself or herself that he/she is attractive and desirable. Such an individual needs to know that he/she can still get attention.  But he/she is being very disrespectful to his/her partner.  He/she is saying: “There is someone else I’m interested in … you’re not enough.” He/she makes such partner feel unattractive and undervalued. 

Flirting is then VERY wrong. There could be a price to pay. Flirting can dilute the relationship – it becomes less intense. And the resentment caused can bring about a break-up.  Of course, the rule changes once your partner flirts. It is now open season for flirting.  The flirtee might then start flirting and now with the tables turned, the original flirt might feel real bad in the end.  

Also, watch your close friends; if flirting with your partner, he/she is definitely NOT a friend.  Keep your distance.  Most affairs happen with friends. 

The Point

Don’t flirt unless you’re single looking for love. But be careful.

ANTOINETTE’S TIP SHEET*

If single, one should:  

1. Learn how to flirt – reading my above “Book of the Week” is a good start.

2. Put on a happy face – happy is inviting;

3. Be cautious – there are nuts out there who may misinterpret; one good rule is to be flirtatious, but never over the top. Instead, be very understated;

If in a relationship, one should:

4. Recognize that flirting is like gambling – don’t do it you have something that you value, (i.e. a relationship with someone whom you love) and you do not want to lose.

5. Be aware that once you start flirting with others, it could start something unintended which you cannot stop.

See Dick and Jane flirting. Now together, see Dick and Jane flirting. Now broken-up, see Dick and Jane flirting. etc.

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.
And that’s my thought of the week on books, what’s yours?*
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/© 2011 Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved.
===================================================================================================
ANNEX I: NEED SOMETHING FURTHER?, TRY AN ANECDOTE OR A QUOTE:

S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTAGE #1: Luciano Pavarotti: Kiss of God
Luciano Pavarotti, famed for his flirtatiousness, was once interviewed on television by Pia Lindstrom, Ingrid Bergman’s beautiful daughter. Lindstrom remarked that a critic had recently suggested that Pavarotti’s vocal chords had been ‘kissed by God’. “I think,” Pavarotti replied without missing a beat, “that He kissed you all over!”
(Source: www.anecdotage.com) – http://www.anecdotage.com/index.php?aid=5942

S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTAGE #2: Flirt
Bill Clinton will go down in the annals of history as much for his sexual peccadillos as for his professional accomplishments. Even former White House press secretary Dee Dee Myers acknowledged his flirtatious ways in a speech one day at a college in Montgomery, Alabama: “Yes, Bill Clinton is a big flirt,” she admitted. “He flirts with men. He flirts with women. He flirts with pets…”
(Source: www.anecdotage.com) – http://www.anecdotage.com/index.php?aid=8494

S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTAGE #3: Leonardo DiCaprio and Tobey Maguire: Don’s Plum
“The two actors [Leonardo DiCaprio and Tobey Maguire], along with Amber Benson and several others, were filmed in a bar, flirting, joking, and discussing drink, drugs and love. It was a raw affair with no one seeming to like each other very much, and according to DiCaprio and Maguire, it was just an acting exercise. “Then, in 1998, after DiCaprio’s Titanic success and Maguire’s first steps into the big-time, the footage was released, put together as a feature named Don’s Plum. Leo and Tobey sued to prevent its release, claiming they had received an agreement that it would never be released as a feature. Co-producer David Stutman sued them back for – amongst other things – trying to stop him making a living. Eventually a secret agreement was reached. Money changed hands, and it was agreed that Don’s Plum would never be commercially released in Canada or the USA. “Unfortunately for Leo and Tobey, who rather wished it would go away, the movie was picked up on by the art set in Europe and screened at the Berlin Film Festival in 2001. It was clearly still a sore point as, when the producers put an ad in Daily Variety in 2000, thanking the pair for their ‘amicable spirits, gentlemanly behaviour and wisdom beyond their years,’ they sued again…”
(Source: www.anecdotage.com) –  http://www.anecdotage.com/index.php?aid=18669

S & R* QUOTE #1: Maya Angelou
Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope.
(Source:  Wisdom Quotes) –  http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/love/index2.html

S & R* QUOTE #2:  Marilyn Monroe
A career is wonderful, but you can’t curl up with it on a cold night.
(Source:  Wisdom Quotes) – http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/love/index3.html

S & R* QUOTE #3: Robin Morgan
Friendship is mutual blackmail elevated to the level of love.
(Source:  Wisdom Quotes) – http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/love/index3.html
*TM/© 2011 Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved.
—————————————————————–———————————————————————————
ANNEX II
SCHEDULE I
“IT WORDS FOR ME!*”
For today, my word/phrase(s) are: “flirting”; “dating”; etc.

Flirting
Flirting (also called coquetry) is a playful, romantic or sexual overture by one person to another subtly indicating an interest in a deeper relationship with the other person, and can involve verbal communication as well as body language. A female flirt, especially a young one, is sometimes called a coquette; but when a man flirts with a woman it is sometimes referred to as gallantry or chivalry.
(Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flirting

Dating
Dating is a form of courtship consisting of social activities done by two persons with the aim of each assessing the other’s suitability as a partner in an intimate relationship or as a spouse. While the term has several senses, it usually refers to the act of meeting and engaging in some mutually agreed upon social activity in public, together, as a couple.
(Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

SCHEDULE II
STUDY/STATISTICS:
The origin of the word flirt is obscure. The Oxford English Dictionary (first edition) associates it with such onomatopoeic words as flit and
flick, emphasizing a lack of seriousness; on the other hand, it has been attributed to the old French conter fleurette, which means “to (try to) seduce” by the dropping of flower petals, that is, “to speak sweet nothings”. While old-fashioned, this expression is still used in French, often mockingly, but the English gallicism to flirt has made its way and has now become an anglicism.Flirting usually involves speaking and behaving in a way that suggests a mildly greater intimacy than the actual relationship between the parties would justify, though within the rules of social etiquette, which generally disapproves of a direct expression of sexual interest. This may be accomplished by communicating a sense of playfulness or irony. Double entendres, with one meaning more formally appropriate and another more suggestive, may be used. Body language can include flicking the hair, eye contact, brief touching, open stances, proximity etc. Verbal communication of interest can include the vocal tone, such as pace, volume, intonation. Challenges (teasing, questions, qualifying, feigned disinterest) serve to increase tension, test intention and congruity.Flirting behaviour varies across cultures due to different modes of social etiquette such as how closely people should stand (proxemics), how long to hold eye contact, and so forth.[1] However, ethologist Irenäus Eibl-Eibesfeldt found that in places as different as Africa and North America, women do exactly the same prolonged stare followed by a head tilt away with a little smile.[citation needed]In order to bond or to express sexual interest, people flirt. According to Kate Fox, there are two main types of flirting: flirting for fun and flirting with intent.[2] Flirting for fun can take place between friends, co-workers, or total strangers that wish to get to know each other. This type of flirting does not intend to lead to sexual intercourse or romantic relationship, but increases the bonds between two people.Flirting with intent plays a role in the mate-selection process. The person flirting will send out signals of sexual availability to another, and expects to see the interest returned in order to continue flirting. Flirting can involve non-verbal signs, such as an exchange of glances, hand-touching, hair-touching, or verbal signs, such as chatting up, flattering comments, and exchange of telephone numbers in order to initiate further contact.Increasingly in the 21st century flirting is taking forms in instant messaging, and other social media. In 2011 Tagged conducted a summer-long survey based on “winks” by metro area, with the surprise leader being Pittsburgh [1].People flirt for a variety of reasons. Flirting can indicate an interest in a deeper personal relationship with another person. Some people flirt simply for amusement, with no intention of developing any further relationship. This type of flirting sometimes faces disapproval from others, either because it can be misinterpreted as more serious, or it may be viewed as cheating if either person is already in a committed relationship with someone else.

Types
A study in body language: Haynes King’s Jealousy and Flirtation Flirting may consist of stylized gestures, language, body language,
postures, and physiologic signs which act as cues to another person. Among these, at least in Western society, are:
• Eye contact, batting eyelashes, staring, winking, etc.
• “Protean” signals, such as touching one’s hair
• Giggling, or laughing encouragingly at any slight hint of intimacy in the other’s behavior
• Casual touches; such as a woman gently touching a man’s arm during conversation
• Smiling suggestively
• Sending notes, poems, or small gifts
• Flattery (regarding beauty, sexual attractiveness)
• Online chat, texting and other one-on-one and direct messaging services while hinting affection.
• Footsie, a form of flirtation in which people use their feet to play with each others’ feet. This generally takes place under a table or in bed while rubbing feet. Participants often remove their shoes and play barefoot; however, it can also be played in socks, or wearing shoes. Though this method can backfire, as the general opinion of feet can depend on the
culture and society of the area.
• Teasing
• Banter
• Staging of “chance” encounters
• Imitating of behaviors (e.g. taking a drink when the other person takes a drink, changing posture as the other does, etc.)
• Coyness, affectedly shy or modest, marked by cute, coquettish, or artful playfulness (e.g. pickup lines).
• Giving flying kisses.
• Singing love songs in presence of the girl/boy.
• Maintaining very short distance during casual talking.
• Peacocking, where a man dresses up in order to attract a woman.[4] The effectiveness of these several interactions has been subjected to detailed analysis by behavioral psychologists, and advice on their use is available from dating coaches.
(Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flirting
SCHEDULE III
S & R* NEWS ALERT* #1:
Preserving your memories
We can all remember spending hours looking through the pages of old family photo albums. As we flipped through the pages, the pictures answered a curious desire to learn more about loved ones. But unless you were looking at familiar faces, or being told accompanying stories, these albums were not always exciting. According to a recent survey commissioned by Black’s, 44 per cent of snap happy Canadians take over 250 photos a year. If you are one of those who loves capturing life’s special moments, then sharing your photos is as exciting as snapping the memory. To showcase these memorable moments, consider creating a photo book that will help tell your story. Photo books are great for preserving and sharing our family’s memories, says Erica Ehm, founder and editor-in-chief of YummyMummyClub.ca. I treasure the time we spent together, and look forward to revisiting these books with my kids when they are older, and maybe even with my grandkids one day.For some, printing photos and storing them in a shoe box will suffice. But it’s important to remember that regular print memories run the risk of getting lost over the years or mixed together with pictures from different moments. There is comfort in knowing that a photo book organizes your photos and helps keep them safe. Using services such as Black’s PhotoBook design service, makes it easy to preserve your memories. Simply upload the images to their website and they
will design the layout for you, compiling the memories to tell a story and preserve them in a way that will make it enjoyable for anyone to flip through.
More information on preserving your memories can be found online at
www.blacks.ca.
www.newscanada.com
“News Canada” <article@newscanada.com>www.newscanada.com

S & R* NEWS ALERT* #2: Turning life’s precious moments into keepsakes
Special occasions such as weddings, trips, birthdays, anniversaries and many others, are filled with memories worth keeping. Chances are you’ll find yourself returning to these moments and reliving them time and time again on your own or by sharing them with others. So rather than just printing and sharing your pictures, do something different that will help turn your special memories into keepsakes.
Everyone has memories that are special to them and worth preserving. For me, trips with my family and my children’s birthdays are memories that I’ll want to keep forever, says Erica Ehm, founder and editor-in-chief of YummyMummyClub.ca. I like using photo books because they tell a story about my most treasured memories through their design.According to a recent survey commissioned by Black’s, 72 per cent of Canadians printing pictures of special moments or occasions in their lives do so to ensure memories are not lost. As such, it’s important to be creative in the way we preserve these keepsakes, and photo books are great ways to do so. Here are some photo book ideas:Use a photo book at a wedding as a guest book. Include photos of the bride and groom throughout the years and ask guests to write their favourite memories of the couple, or advice on how to keep the passion strong. Create a photo book travel journal. Share the shots taken on your trip and leave room for travel companions and family to add in their own stories and favourite moments while on the trip.An anniversary or birthday often celebrates a milestone of passing of time. To commemorate the occasion, put together a book that includes photos of the honouree from when they were young, as well as photos of the guests attending the celebration.More information on preserving special occasion memories is available online
at www.blacks.ca.
www.newscanada.com
*TM/© 2011 Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved

Posted by on October 23rd, 2011 Comments Off on FLIRTING TIPS 101 FOR GIRLS & BOYS, WOMEN & MEN: I say have fun, but be careful!*

SCHOOL TEST SCORES & GRADING: I say they are necessary, but knowing and loving your child is more important!*

Vol. 2,  No. 21, October 16, 2011

TITLE: “SCHOOL TEST SCORES & GRADING: I say they are necessary, but knowing and loving your child is more important!*”

INTRODUCTION
Today, continuing with the educational theme, I am thinking about grading, pressure from school higher-ups/parents, unjustified positive reinforcement, etc. My book of the week is:   “Effective Grading: A Tool for Learning and Assessment”  by Barbara E. Walvoord (Author), Virginia Johnson Anderson (Author), Thomas A. Angelo (Foreward). (Editor’s Note: This is the next in the series on parenting, schooling and the return to class.)

PREVIEW: Next week, I will give you a new post on flirting another in my continuing series on relationships, dating and more. What do you think?  Check out my post, if you please, on my blog next week and see my point of view. I would love to hear back from you.

 MY LIFE & TIMES*

As I was growing up, my parents did not pressure me to achieve top marks, it was my decision.  I wanted to excel. It was important that I did well academically.  I remember, in elementary school, I strived hard to earn the gold medal and I did.  Two gold medals were given out for the best students in the class to wear during the year.  I wore one of them and I was so happy.  When I entered high school, I was enrolled with the advanced group and I worked hard and did well.  In business college, I graduated in the top ten. 

When it came to my daughters, I encouraged them to do well and achieve good grades.  But It was also important for me that they had free time.  I am a firm believer that children should enjoy every stage of their childhood.  They should not be robbed of this.   When they brought home excellent report cards, I praised them. But when there was a failing mark, I discussed with their teacher what could be done to rectify this.  I also hired a tutor to help them so they could pass this subject the next time. I am very proud to say my daughters did very well academically.

THE AUTHORS:  Barbara E. Walvoord (Author), Virginia Johnson Anderson (Author), Thomas A. Angelo (Author)
Barbara E. Walvoord
Walvoord  is director of the Kaneb Center for Teaching and Learning and concurrent professor of English at the University of Notre Dame.
Virginia Johnson Anderson
Johnson Anderson is professor of biological sciences and chair of the biology department assessment committee at Towson State University.

SERIES/COLLECTION
Books/Articles:
Barbara E. Walvoord

• Teaching and Learning in College Introductory Religion Courses by Barbara E. Walvoord
• Helping Students Write Well: A Guide for Teachers in All Disciplines by Barbara E. Walvoord
• Writing: Strategies for All Disciplines by Barbara E. Walvoord
Virginia Johnson Anderson
• Effective Grading: A Tool for Learning and Assessment in College by Barbara E. Walvoord, Virginia Johnson Anderson
Thomas A. Angelo
• Classroom Assessment Techniques A Handbook for College Teachers –  by Thomas A. Angelo, K. Patricia Cross
• Effective Grading: A Tool for Learning and Assessment in College by Barbara E. Walvoord, Virginia Johnson Anderson
Thomas A. Angelo

THE BOOK:  “Effective Grading: A Tool for Learning and Assessment”  by Barbara E. Walvoord (Author), Virginia Johnson Anderson (Author), Thomas A. Angelo (Forward)

Grading is part of teaching. EvaluatIng student work is a big deal. Knowing the student’s progress is essential. If he or she is doing well – great. If not, teacher and parents need this information asap.  Thomas A. Angelo, in his Forward, wrote: “Grading makes us so uncomfortable that many faculty would rather not give grades at all but that’s rarely an option. In the halls, over coffee and in endless meetings, we lament our situation and discuss the need for higher standards or tougher grading policies; but year after year in most cases and most places, the confusion and discomfort continue unabated” (Pg. xii) As I have already said, a good teacher is hard to find and teaching the teacher will make him or her great.I am therefore interested in those educators teaching the teachers and learning what they have to say. In Chapter 1, the authors of this book said: “In short, we view grading as context=dependent, complex process that serves multiple roles:
* Evaluation-.the grade purports to be valid, fair and trustworthy judgment about the quality of the student work.
* Communication: the grade is a communication to the student as well as to the employers and the graduate schools and others. …
* Motivation: grading affects how students study, what they focus on and how much time they  spend…
* Organization.a grade on a test or a assignment helps to mark transitions… ..;”  (Pg 2) 

They instruct teachers on grading better. Some of the chapter roll is as follows: “1. The power of grading for learning and assessment;  2. Managing the grading process; 3. Fostering motivation and learning on the grading process; 4 Misrepresentation learning in the grading process;  5 Establishing criteria and standards for grading;  6. Calculating course grades; ….etc.”

There are samples of assignments, tests and even a plan for a faculty workshop on grading. I give these authors an A+.  For all of you parents out there…give this book a look. If your child is in primary-grade school, you will be well- informed and strong when attending the next parent-teacher night; and if your teenager is anywhere between high school to college, your meeting with the professor or dean will be more productive.

CONCLUSION

A child should be encouraged to work hard and strive to excel in his or her school career. 

Personal Comments

It is wrong to pressure your child to acquire a mark that you know is unrealistic.  Instead, it is better to encourage great effort and to be the best that he or she can be.

Working hard and earning good grades is important and should be highly recommended. Marks are important to get into the right school. While there are entrance exams for many schools – I really think kindergarten is a bit much. Many programs have a limited number of students that they will accept.  But even with good marks you might not be accepted. Some parents have high expectations from their kids and push them over the edge. Pressure to achieve high marks may causes a lot of stress on students. This level of stress could start as early as elementary school. The high standards that parents put on their children may sometimes put them in a depression. It could be a health epidemic. It could also lead to an inappropriate response such as cheating & plagiarism.

It’s all about winning for some parents.  It should never be about achieving, through one’s children, one’s own unfilled dreams.  While we do live in a very competitive world, there should be a limit.  It’s also about making your child feel good about self.

 Today, kids are rushed through their childhood.  Their schedules are so busy, they don’t have time to play.  Playing is important for a child. We have seen repeatedly parents that become violent at sports games their kids are in because their kid’s team didn’t win.  It becomes only about winning.  It should be about playing and enjoying the sport.  How sad.

Young people today should be encouraged to pursue a career that is interesting to them and will earn them a good living.  Although, I tried to direct my kids in certain careers, I realized that they had to go into fields in which they were interested.  This is the only way to have success.  I recall a dentist whose passion was music.  His parents insisted that he go into dentistry.  He obeyed.  He was never happy as a dentist and retired early in his life to pursue his dream. 

The Point

Grading is important. But grades are only a guide.  Don’t fall into the test score trap. Don’t take it out on the teacher. Being aware of your child’s progress is prudent. Knowing your child is even better. Loving and encouraging  him or her is vital. ….then watch the good results come .
 
ANTOINETTE’S TIP SHEET*
Every parent should:
1. Encourage his or her child to work hard and do their best always, no matter what they do;
2. Explain the need to put in great effort in school work- this makes it possible to achieve better marks;
3. Praise them when they bring home a good report card even though it’s not straight A’s;
4. Recognize that each child has different strengths academically; and focus on something that he or she is good at and enjoys and encourage your child to strive to achieve in that subject or program.

5. Hire a tutor if your  youngster has difficulty with a certain subject;
6. Encourage your children to take a break from their busy schedule in order to  exercise their imagination;
7. Enroll them in the activities and sports which they enjoy;
8. Let your kids enjoy every stage of their childhood – Don’t rush them.
9, Direct them to a career in which they are interested;

Try telling your child that you are giving him or her a “100”:  100 cute expressions, 100 smiles, 100 great memories, etc. I think love grows achievers!*

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!*”
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 Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved.
===================================================================================================
ANNEX I: NEED SOMETHING FURTHER?,TRY AN ANECDOTE OR A QUOTE:
S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTAGE #1: C-Student
In 2001, President George W. Bush accepted an honorary doctorate from his alma mater Yale University. “To those of you who received honors, awards and distinctions, I say, well done,” Bush declared. “And to the ‘C’ students, I say: you too can be president!”
(Source: www.anecdotage.com) – http://www.anecdotage.com/index.php?aid=7398

S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTAGE #2: Prince Harry: Royal Slacker
In 2003, bad-ass Prince Harry shocked his father (Prince Charles) with his announcement of plans to join the armed forces after high school instead of going directly to university. Charles was shocked again some time later, when Harry announced that his plans had suddenly changed again: he had failed his exams and would have to repeat his senior year!
(Source: www.anecdotage.com) – http://www.anecdotage.com/index.php?aid=2777

S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTAGE #3: Business School Failure?
While studying business management at Yale University, Fred Smith nearly received a failing grade on a major business assignment. Convinced of the viability of his proposal, however, Smith vowed to pursue it upon his return from the Vietnam war. The idea? That parcels could be delivered overnight at a profit using a private airline system with a centralised hub. The resulting company? Federal Express.
(Source: www.anecdotage.com) –  http://www.anecdotage.com/index.php?aid=8249

S & R* QUOTE #1: Confucius
By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest; Second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third by experience, which is the bitterest.
(Source:  Wisdom Quotes) –  http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/topics/topic_wisdom.html

S & R* QUOTE #2:  Mary Wilson Little
He who devotes sixteen hours a day to hard study may become at sixty as wise as he thought himself at twenty.
(Source:  Wisdom Quotes) – http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/topics/topic_wisdom2.html

S & R* QUOTE #3: Alan Kay
Perspective is worth 80 IQ points.
(Source:  Wisdom Quotes) – ttp://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/topics/topic_wisdom4.html
*TM/© 2011 Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved.
—————————————————————–———————————————————
ANNEX II
SCHEDULE I
“IT WORDS FOR ME!*”
For today, my word/phrase(s) are: “grade”; etc.

Grade
Grades are standardized measurements of varying levels of comprehension within a subject area. Grades can be assigned in letters (for example, A, B, C, D, or F), as a range (for example 4.0–1.0), as descriptors (excellent, great, satisfactory, needs improvement), in percentages, or, as is common in some post-secondary institutions in some countries, as a Grade Point Average (GPA).
(Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grade_(education)

Grade Point Average (GPA).
GPA is calculated by taking the number of grade points a student earned in a given period of time divided by the total number of credits taken. [1] The GPA can be used by potential employers or further post-secondary institutions to assess and compare applicants. A Cumulative Grade Point Average is a calculation of the average of all of a student’s grades for all semesters and courses completed up to a given academic term,[2][3][4] whereas the GPA may only refer to one term.
(Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grade_(education)

SCHEDULE II

STUDY/STATISTICS:
Keith Hoskin argues that the concept of grading students’ work quantitatively was developed by a tutor named William Farish and first implemented by the University of Cambridge in 1792.[5] Hoskin’s assertion has been questioned by Christopher Stray, who finds the evidence for Farish as the inventor of the numerical mark to be unpersuasive.[6] Stray’s article elucidates the complex relationship between the mode of examination (testing), in this case oral or written, and the varying philosophies of education these modes imply, both to teacher and student. As a technology, grading both shapes and reflects many fundamental areas of educational theory and practice.[edit] International grading systems Most nations have individual grading systems unique to their own schools. However, several international standards for grading have arisen recently.Main article: European Baccalaureate
[edit] International BaccalaureateInternational Baccalaureate

Level Approximate mark (varies according to subject and school [7])

7 ~96–100(%)
6 ~90–95
5 ~80–89
4 ~70–79
3 ~60–69
2 ~50–59
1 ~0–49
Theory of Knowledge (May 2006)[8]

Grade Mark
A 49–60
B 40–48
C 32–39
D 22–31
E/F 0–21
Source: – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grade_(education)

SCHEDULE III

S & R* NEWS ALERT* #1: The new-school of e-learning
The emergence of the internet has meant a variety of things for our society.
>From creating non-conventional career paths to inspiring social revolutions, the internet has changed the way we consume information. More than that, it has changed the way we learn.Once upon a time, surfing the web was considered bad for a child’s literacy development, just as video games or TV were once viewed negatively, said Margaret Eaton, president of ABC Life Literacy Canada. Today, with a number of quality sites and information available online, embracing digital technology as part of the learning journey is a key part of the educational puzzle.The Internet is chock-full of learning sites for kids, yet it’s often one of the last places we look for educational content. Those children that struggle in math and science can access several websites that allow them to question and explore difficult concepts. Many of them are also up to date with provincial curriculum standards. There are also literacy development sites that access a variety of stories in one place. Energizer Canada, in association with ABC Life Literacy Canada, has developed Power of Reading (http://promos.energizer.ca/powerofreading), a site with a library of original stories that offers parents, teachers and caregivers the opportunity to work with children to create personalized digital stories of their own. After creating their own original story, families can share their new adventure with other family and friends online.What better way to give your child the screen for which they’re begging than by exploring an e-learning site together?
www.newscanada.com
“News Canada” <article@newscanada.com>www.newscanada.com

S & R* NEWS ALERT* #2: Success starts with a higher education

Post-secondary education is a good idea at any point in a person’s career. Take it from Heidi Hauver, a human resources expert who has balanced work and school for years.Having a degree allows you to create new and exciting opportunities for yourself, Heidi says.Heidi knows this first-hand. Two and a half years ago when I went back to get my degree, I was already almost ten years into my career, she says. I could see at that point in my career it was definitely going to help me get to the next level. Today, Heidi is the director of human resources at a global database services company that employs more than one hundred people. Vice-president of human resources is my ultimate goal, she says confidently.Heidi took courses in a traditional classroom, but found it hard to manage her busy schedule. Once I switched to distance education I never went back to the classroom, she says.
Choosing the right program of study requires some research. Looking at what careers are in demand is important, Heidi says. She also recommends talking to someone who’s already in your desired line of work to get a first-hand perspective. As a part-time student you can get financial support for your education. If you apply for a Canada Student Loan you could also receive grants that don’t need to be paid back.Explore the possibilities of post-secondary education online at CanLearn.ca/explore.
www.newscanada.com
*TM/© 2011 Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved

Posted by on October 16th, 2011 Comments Off on SCHOOL TEST SCORES & GRADING: I say they are necessary, but knowing and loving your child is more important!*

“MENTORING PROGRAMS AT SCHOOL: I encourage teachers to become a mentor and students to become a mentee!*”

Vol. 2,  No. 20.  October 2, 2011

TITLE: “MENTORING PROGRAMS AT SCHOOL: I encourage teachers to become a mentor and students to become a mentee!*”
INTRODUCTION
Today, continuing with the educational theme, I am thinking about mentoring. In a school, this is about a student and his/her educational career.  My book of the week is:  “Mentoring and Coaching in Schools: Professional Learning through Collaborative Inquiry” [Paperback] bySuzanne Burley (Author), Cathy Pomphrey (Author).  (Editor’s Note: This is the fifth and another of a series on parenting, schooling and the return to class.)PREVIEW: Next week, I will continue on with the theme of education, writing about grading pressured by parents, unjustified positive reinforcement, etc. What do you think?  Check out my post, if you please, on my blog next week and see my point of view. I would love to hear back from you.

MY LIFE & TIMES*
For about 15 years, while I worked at my college job, I was a mentor. I had heard about the mentoring program, but didn’t apply; instead, I was nominated by co-workers. The person in charge, a psychologist, called me. At our first meeting, she said that I was highly recommended. She said that I had an out-going personality and the students would benefit from having me as a mentor. I was flattered. I said “Yes”. At first, I didn’t know much about it.  I was asked to take a brief introductory course.   The program director then started sending me students.  The mentoring seemed to work. My mentees would inform me how they were doing and the marks that they were getting. I listened.  They would ask about courses and programs.  I told them what I knew. And I researched what I didn’t. I would give my opinion and once they made up their minds, and if they wanted a change, I would help them switch into the right course-program. I also helped my mentees to fit in and adapt to the new school environment. Sometimes, they told me about their lives – I did not pry. If they wanted to talk, I listened some more. I guess that my being a mother helped. Also, the kids found me young- minded.  In my experience, the outgoing students came a few times. Once they made friends, they were gone. Other students, many introverted, came all semester. I remember one in particular, who came weekly even after the mentoring program was over through to the end of her years at our college. I remember another instance, when a girl, an introvert, had some difficulties; and at the end of the semester, she stopped abruptly without a word. I never heard from her again. I consider my mentoring as one of my accomplishments. If I had to do it again, I would do it. Now that I look back, I say that I truly enjoyed it. It was also like a good deed.  I was not paid for this. It was my time that I gave. I gave up my breaks and lunch hour.  I tried to get the mentees to go in the right direction with the needed information. I feel  that I made a difference. I received e-mails and thank you cards.  Most were upbeat and happy. One was from a student, who wrote that she came to the decision of leaving school. I was sorry to receive this memo. I always suggested that the students continue school. But I was pleased that she thanked me and I noted how mature she sounded having reasoned through the decision. THE

AUTHOR:  Suzanne Burley (Author), Cathy Pomphrey (Author)
Suzanne BurleyBurley is academic leader for teacher education and professional learning at London Metropolitan University. She was appointed as editor of ”Language Awareness Journal”. Cathy PomphreyPomphrey was a languages teacher in several London schools and has always taken a special interest in raising awareness of languages and linguistic diversity through her teaching and publications. She is academic leader for initial teacher education at London Metropolitan University, training teachers from a diverse range of linguistic and cultural backgrounds.

She now works as an education consultant. She was appointed as editor of ”Language Awareness Journal”.

SERIES/COLLECTION
Books Suzanne Burley

Cathy Pomphrey

  • Language Varieties and Change

THE BOOK: “Mentoring and Coaching in Schools: Professional Learning through Collaborative Inquiry” [Paperback] by Suzanne Burley(Author), Cathy Pomphrey (Author)
Mentoring and coaching amongst teachers is a higher level of collaboration, serving professional development, practice, uttimately building better teachers, especially in secondary schools. (I thought that this is a good half-way between primary-grade school on one end and college-university on the other.) In essence, it is a  process of critical inquiry.  ”Features include: *reflective questions, guidelines, task and templates to help collect evidence and evaluate inquiries *detailed case studies focusing on teachers at different stages in their career *practical guidance on carrying out practitioner inquiry and research * an analysis of learning outcomes resulting from different coaching and mentoring relationships.”The chapter roll is as follows – Ch. 1: Intro to Using this book to develop professional learning through mentoring and coaching; Ch.  2: Dimensions of professional learning; Ch.: Mentoring and Coaching: a platform for professional learning; Ch. 4: Practitioner Inquiry for professional learning in mentoring and coaching; Ch. 5: Inquiring into the nature of mentoring and coaching through collaboration; Ch. 6: Inquiring into mentoring and coaching in a range of professional contexts; Ch. 7: Inquiring into one to one mentoring and coaching collaborations within the school context; Ch. 8: Inquiring into wider mentoring and coaching collaborations within the school context; and Ch. 9: A new perspective: mentoring and coaching as collaborative professional inquiry.

This is a solid text. It is an excellent back grounder to learning about mentoring from the teachers’ perspective. I learnt something. The mentor and the mentee both derive benefit from the mentoring relationship. So can you.

CONCLUSION

Mentoring programs work and make happier students. This, in turn, contributes to  greater achievement by these students.

Personal Comments

I want students to be less stressed.

I know that parents want the best for their chilldren. They need the best quality teacher possible. Since I started this blog, I want to learn what makes the best teacher tick. In other words, I try to learn about what it takes to be a good teacher. Mentoring and coaching are a role and function of an able educator. Books targeting teachers, especially secondary level ones, contributing to better training or adding to skill sets is of interest to me. I discovered this week’s book. Helping school kids and older is something wholesome and good. This book will aid you and me in this regard. A teacher who is also a mentor is great in my book!

I recommend mentoring. It is something special- not only for the mentee, but also, surprise…surprise… the mentor!

The Point

I want more great teachers to become mentors. I want parents to encourage their kids to register into mentor-mentee programs.

ANTOINETTE’S TIP SHEET*
Dos & Don’ts –

If thinking about becoming a mentor,

1. Inform yourself about the mentoring program – answer such questions:

(a) “Who are the students being put into the program?”

It is for students, new to the school, who have difficulty settling in or meeting friends.  This is not for the students who have mental problems  – they need big help from the professionals: psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, guidance counsellors, etc.)

(b) “What does the student need?”

They sometimes need  information, encouragement, advice, direction, etc. Most of all, they  need the mentor to really listen.

(c) “What does the mentor have to offer?”

He or she is a good listener, able to be supportive and a source of good information.

(d)  “What is the mentor expected to do?”

A good mentor should:

-Listen to his/her mentee, particularly if he/she is shy. The aim is to get him/her successfully integrated into the new world of the educational institution.

-Advise him/her academically – the goal is to get them on the correct educational path; there are several programs, many courses, taught by many teachers, etc. Ask yourself: ”Which is best for the mentee?”

-Help him/her to navigate the institutional procedures;

-Give him/her the needed information asap; and if unsure, speak to others to best inform the student.

e) “How is the mentor matched up to the mentee?”

The program managment try to get the best possible fit.

2. Think about whether you have what it takes to be a mentor; every year, there is a fresh crop of students, eager and young, idealistic and innocent.

3. Become a mentor – it is worthwhile – you will do important work and it is most rewarding.

4. Recognize that it is a responsibility because you need to:  (a) Make adequate time for your mentee; (b) Direct your mentee right;5. Be aware that a student is more comfortable with someone of the same gender;6. Keep to the boundaries – remember that you are an authority figure; in this regard,  (a) Communicate only on school time; (b)  Meet the mentee only on school grounds;

1 mentor + 1 mentee = 1 better student.  How’s that for a math formula!*

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!*”
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 Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved.
===================================================================================================================================

*TM/© 2011 Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved.
===================================================================================================================================
ANNEX I: NEED SOMETHING FURTHER?, TRY AN ANECDOTE OR A QUOTE:
S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTAGE #1: Classic Groucho
Seattle, NY?
During the 2000 presidential campaign, Al Gore’s daughter Kristin praised his role as a mentor. “He was… the guy who helped me study for my third-grade state-capital quiz,” she explained. “Seattle – I got it down.”
Sadly, the record does not indicate who broke the embarrassing news to the Gores: the capital of Washington state is in fact… Olympia.
[Michael Moore’s characterization of the Bush-Gore election? “The Evil of Two Lessers”.]

Gore, Kristin (1977-    ) American comedy writer, daughter of Al Gore
[Sources: The Economist]
More Kristin Gore anecdotes
Related Anecdote Keywords:
Geography Ignorance Dummies Role Models Verbal Bloopers Dubious Compliments Parenting
View/add Comments [0]

(Source: www.anecdotage.com) – http://www.anecdotage.com/index.php?aid=2974

S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTAGE #2: Joseph Bell: Elementary Schooling (long)
Dr. Joseph Bell (Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s medical school mentor and the inspiration behind Sherlock Holmes) customarily subjected each new class to a curious test: holding a jar of liquid, he would explain that it contained a potent drug with a very bitter taste. “We might easily analyze this chemically,” he would say, “but I want you to test it by smell and taste and, as I don’t ask anything of my students which I wouldn’t be willing to do myself, I will taste it before passing it around.” The students would watch uncomfortably as Bell dipped a finger into the liquid, put his hand to his lips, and sucked it. With a grimace, he would then pass the jar around the class for each student to follow his example. The experiment over, Dr. Bell would make an announcement:
“Gentlemen female students had not yet been admitted] I am deeply grieved to find that nor one of you has developed this power of perception, which I so often speak about. For, if you had watched me closely, you would have found that, while I placed my forefinger in the bitter medicine, it was the middle finger which found its way into my mouth!”
(In some variants of this story, the liquid in the jar is revealed to be urine.)
[Bell first impressed 18-year-old Arthur Conan Doyle by correctly deducing that a patient was a left-handed cobbler: “Notice,” he explained, “the worn places in the corduroy breeches, where a cobbler rests his lapstone.”]
[Trivia: Bell’s voice was disfigured by diphtheria, contracted when he bravely sucked the poison from a diptheria patient. (His valor earned him a citation from Queen Victoria).]

Bell, Joseph (1837-1911) Scottish surgeon, consulting surgeon to the Royal Infimary of Edinburgh
[Sources: I. Wallace, Fabulous Originals]
More Joseph Bell anecdotes
Related Anecdote Keywords:
Education Teaching Observation Urine Medicine Teaching Sleight Of Hand Teaching Tricks Embarrassment
View/add Comments [0]
(Source: www.anecdotage.com) – http://www.anecdotage.com/index.php?aid=135

S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTAGE #3:
(Source: www.anecdotage.com) –

S & R* QUOTE #1: Kahlil Gibran
The teacher who is indeed wise does not bid you to enter the house of his wisdom but rather leads you to the threshold of your mind.
(Source:  Wisdom Quotes) –  http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/wisdom/

S & R* QUOTE #2:  Tryon Edwards
He that never changes his opinions, never corrects his mistakes, and will never be wiser on the morrow than he is today.
(Source:  Wisdom Quotes) –  http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/wisdom/index2.html

S & R* QUOTE #3: Plato
Wise men talk because they have something to say; fools, because they have to say something.
(Source:  Wisdom Quotes) – http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/wisdom/index2.html
*TM/© 2011 Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved.
—————————————————————–————————————————————————-
ANNEX II
SCHEDULE I
“IT WORDS FOR ME!*”
For today, my word/phrase(s) are: “mentor“, “mentee”;  etc.
Mentor
The first recorded modern usage of the term can be traced to a 1699 book entitled Les Aventures de Telemaque, by the French writer François Fénelon[3] In the book the lead character is that of Mentor. This book was very popular during the 18th century and the modern application of the term can be traced to this publication.[3]
This is the source of the modern use of the word mentor: a trusted friend, counselor or teacher, usually a more experienced person. Some professions have “mentoring programs” in which newcomers are paired with more experienced people, who advise them and serve as examples as they advance. Schools sometimes offer mentoring programs to new students, or students having difficulties.
Today mentors provide expertise to less experienced individuals to help them advance their careers, enhance their education, and build their networks. In many different arenas people have benefited from being part of a mentoring relationship, including:
Actors—Laurence Olivier mentored Anthony Hopkins. Martin Landau mentored Jack Nicholson. Mel Gibson mentored Heath Ledger.
Athletes—Eddy Merckx (five-time Tour de France winner) mentored Lance Armstrong (seven-time Tour de France winner). Bobby Charlton mentored David Beckham.
Business people—Freddie Laker mentored Richard Branson.
Mentee
The student of a mentor is called a protégé. More accurately, the protégé could be called the telemachus (pl. telemachuses or telemachi). Sometimes, the protégé is also called a mentee. The -or ending of the original name Mentor does not have the meaning of “the one who does something”, as in other English words such as contractor or actor. The derivation of mentee from mentor is therefore an example of backformation (cf. employer and employee).
(Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) –http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mentor

SCHEDULE II
STUDY/STATISTICS:
In a Pew Public/Private Ventures Study of 959 boys and girls with 60% members of a minority group, 60% boys, and 80% from low income households, 487 were matched with mentors and the remaining 472 were the control group with no mentors.

After 18 months with mentors, an evaluation of these children revealed the boys and girls were:

  • 46 % less likely to use illegal drugs
  • 33% less likely to hit someone
  • Mentoring

    Mentoring allows experienced staff (mentors) to share lessons learned, tips, and suggestions on how to file export transactions accurately and timely.  Mentoring also provides ongoing support to new employees, accelerating their learning curve to achieve the level of understanding required to ensure compliance and reporting accuracy.  The mentoring section of a company’s training manual should include internal as well as external contacts who can offer assistance.  Mentors should review the FTR with all new employees and review such concepts as U.S. Principal Party in Interest (USPPI), reporting requirements of an export transaction, routed export transaction, data elements and export filing exemptions. The ultimate goal of the mentoring program is to have experienced employees share their knowledge and skills with newly employed staff that will be carrying on the company’s work in the future.  For example, a new employee can shadow an experienced employee throughout the entire process of receiving/verifying documents, entering information into the AES, responding to error responses and notating loading documents with accurate proof-of-filing citations.  By developing a mentoring program, the organization prepares its new employees to better understand the export filing process.  Emphasizing employee development will yield positive results for both mentors and new employees.

    (Source: US Census Bureau) – Automated Export System (AES) Best Practices Compliance Review Program
    www.census.gov/foreign-trade/aes/documentlibrary/bp/AESComplianceBestPracticemanual.doc – 2008-11-12 – Text Version
    More results from www.census.gov/foreign-trade/aes/documentlibrary ]

    SCHEDULE III
    S & R* NEWS ALERT* #1: The value of mentorship: How to get started
    (NC)—Starting something new—whether it’s a job, a hobby or taking the first step towards fulfilling a lifelong goal—can be daunting. Having a mentor to help guide you along the way can help to smooth the road ahead.
    If you’re interested in finding a mentor, you’re not alone. A recent survey by American Express found 43 per cent of Canadians wish they had someone to go to for advice. Of those who do have a mentor, the vast majority (91%) believe he or she has been integral to their success.
    American Express Canada recently launched the Room for Thought program, which provided three members of the general public the opportunity to be mentored by Marc and Craig Kielburger, founders of Free the Children; Les Stroud, aka “Suvivorman”; and Emily Haines, lead singer of Metric. While not everyone can have a celebrity as a mentor, there are some easy ways to find the right mentor for your needs.
    Consider these four tips to help you get started:
    • Don’t worry about formalities: If you know someone you think you can help, take the initiative and ask them to be your mentor. This person could be a co-worker, a friend, or even someone trusted that you engage with over social media.
    • Use all available networks: Your mentor will never have all the answers, so consider who else you know who might be able to contribute mentorship and help you realize your potential. For example, if you want to work abroad, consider connecting with a friend or contact who’s successfully done the same thing.
    • Challenge yourself: The end goal of mentorship is to help you personally grow. Work with a mentor who encourages you to learn new skills and offers opportunities to help you do something that you might not otherwise experience.
    • Pay it forward: Once you establish a mentor relationship, look for opportunities to be a mentor yourself. Offering mentorship to others is often as valuable as receiving mentorship.
    To learn more about how the American Express Room for Thought program is helping three Canadians make their big dreams a reality, go to www.facebook.com/americanexpresscanada
    www.newscanada.com

    S & R* NEWS ALERT* #2:
    www.newscanada.com
    “News Canada” <article@newscanada.com>www.newscanada.com
    *TM/© 2011 Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved

    Source: http://www.beamentor.org/TaxDeductible_2.htm

  • 27% less likely to use alcohol
  • 37% less likely to skip class
  • 53% less likely to skip school
  • Posted by on October 9th, 2011 Comments Off on “MENTORING PROGRAMS AT SCHOOL: I encourage teachers to become a mentor and students to become a mentee!*”