Archive for August, 2012

LABOUR (LABOR) DAY: It is the Day to Honor Working Men and Women; whether weekend, holiday, classic, etc., I like it … a lot!*

Vol. 3, No.17, Monday, August 27th, 2012

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

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.

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 :

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!*”

PREVIEW (now, tentatively Tuesday, September 4th 2012):  With Labour day having come and gone and now seriously back to work, I think that a person working should recognize that tomorrow is the next day of the rest of his/her life. I also think he/she should take pause and think about the avenues from here and consider a fresh start and a vigorous effort, opening up opportunities to who knows where … So I’ll be here next to the water cooler. Why don’t you come by” Let’s see where this will take you! (Editor’s Note: This is another post in a continuing series on general issues.)

PREVIEW (now, tentatively Monday, September 17th 2012): I will return to the romance theme. I am hearing a lot about Fifty Shades of Grey by T.L. James. I say: “Now, that’s a VERY spicy  meat ball!” I want to add my two cents to the discussion. (Editor’s Note: This is another post in a continuing series on dating, relationships and marriage.)

P.S. Big News: It’s now week one of the big changes made to my blog – there are  more great stuff coming. 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/© 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/© 2012 Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved. 

Posted by on August 27th, 2012 5 Comments

HEALTH (MEDICAL) CARE & INSURANCE: I want you and I to make it better!*

Vol. 3, No.19, Monday, August 20, 2012

TITLE: “HEALTH (MEDICAL) CARE & INSURANCE: I want you and I to make it better!*”

INTRODUCTION

In my home province, Quebec, Canada, we are currently having a general election. Health (medical) care & insurance is a major topic. In the United States, Medicare is a key issue in the U.S. presidential election now in full swing. I am not sure whether it’s what the doctor ordered, but I have SOMETHING to say on the subject. Here it is

Politicians have a lot to say about health (medical) care & insurance … with good reason – it plays such a crucial part in our lives.  And everyone is concerned about it. If we have a system, people ask if it will collapse in the next years when Baby Boomers are really going to need it especially in their declining years. In Quebec, while our system has many good points, we have complaints.  In the U.S., some of the buzz words are: “controlling spending” and “providing a safety net.” There are commercials shouting the differences between the main parties. When it comes to health care, Romney and Ryan want to cut from the system, 700 billion – yes, that’s right … with a “B” … that’s a lot of money … I think that it’s more than many many million times what I spend weekly at the grocery store.  If I understood correctly,Republicans want to take it and keep it in Medicare to fund it longer and differently. On the other hand, Obama and Bidon also want to cut 700 billion, but shift it to ‘ObamaCare’.

I therefore can’t help, but think about health care.  Hence, my subject is the health insurance system. My book of the week is “Making Medicare: New Perspectives on the History of Medicare in Canada” [Paperback] by Gregory Marchildon (Author).  (Editor’s Note: This is a part of a continuing series on health.)

 ANTOINETTE’S LIFE & TIMES*

My Health: In Quebec, Canada, we have a universal public health insurance system. It’s good, but it could be better…, a lot better. There are many issues. Wait times is a huge problem. Also, while I have a General Practitioner (GP) – it’s not easy to find a family doctor as many exceed their cap and therefore will not take anymore patients.  In addition, it’s difficult to get many tests without cost. A friend had to pay $1000+- for an MRI.   Finally, funding for health care is a biggie! People are concerned that it won’t last as we Baby Boomers age.   

My Mother’s health: My experience with my mother was a real eye-opener!

Hospital: Last January 2010, my mother became very ill and she spent most of the year in a hospital.  The medical and nursing care that she received was excellent … all professional and dedicated.   Not only was she given every test possible to determine her health issues, but she was kept in the hospital until it was safe to discharge her. This is the positive part!

Home care: Our local community health service centre followed up, visiting weekly. (This was at NO cost except for some home care medical equipment.) This service was to check into mother’s medical condition, ensuring that she was properly cared for and looking for signs of abuse.  One day, I received a call from the nurse who had my mother’s case.  He asked questions about the bruises she had on her arms and chest.  Needless to say, I was there instantly to verify how my mother was doing and if she was being properly looked after.  At first, I imagined the worse, but soon it came to mind that she had fallen during the weekend.  I also remembered that I got a call about it when it happened. So much for the good news. 

Emergency: When my mother needed to go to the hospital, we did not want to call 9-1-1 and ask for an ambulance. Instead, we first drove her in our own car. Big mistake!!!! Since at triage, it was determined that she wasn’t going to die in the next ten minutes, we waited and waited. One time, we waited about SEVEN hours and finally gave up, leaving without care being administered. The long hours in an emergency at a hospital for my mother were very irritating.  It seemed that the only way to get around this was to call an ambulance.  Then once at the hospital, she would be brought from the back directly to the care station area and then reasonably quick into the patient care cubicles, this without having to pass the waiting room lounge!

Family Doctor:  I was unhappy with the GP that my Mom had. I thought that his treatment was weak and in part, her poor condition was his fault. Finding a new GP for my mother was very difficult.  I called every clinic that I could find within ½ hour drive, but to no avail.  Finally, I found a doctor who was taking new patients.  It was winter and I waited in line for one hour outside the clinic in freezing cold temperatures – my mother waited in the car.  When we were admitted, there was at least 3-4 hours wait before we were seen by the doctor.  By the way, there was a staircase to the basement, which was so hard for Mom to use. I have always said that doctors should make house-calls for seniors who are housebound. 

Prescriptions: Almost all seniors in Canada have some form of public or private sector drug coverage plans.  The cost of prescriptions is covered. There is an amount allowed per month.  Although this helps but due to the high cost, some seniors, needing on-going medication, do without. How sad is that?  

THE AUTHOR:  Gregory Marchildon  

 Gregory P. Marchildon thinks about health systems – he sees them in continuous change. He is a professor in the Johnson-Shoyama School of Public Policy at the University of Regina. He is also Canada Research Chair in Public Policy and Economic History

He was recognized with major awards and honors: (a) Institute of Public Administration of Canada Lieutenant Governor’s Gold Medal, 2006; (b) Distinguished Alumni Award (Professional/Business), University of Regina, 2003; (c) Saskatchewan Book Award for Scholarly Writing, 2002.  Indeed, he wrote the book: Health Systems in Transition. When this guy speaks … we should listen.

SERIES/COLLECTION

Books/Articles:

Several are:

 THE BOOK:  Making Medicare: New Perspectives on the History of Medicare in Canada [Paperback] by Gregory Marchildon (Author)

Medicare in Canada was a very hard fight. It was and is a huge accomplishment. It still is a big deal! Tommy Douglas, Premier of Saskatchewan initiated the Canadian health care system – he thought that it was the right thing to do. The federal government decided to implement the Saskatchewan health care model, from Newfoundland through to British Columbia.  In this book, there are  numerous essays by key individuals who implemented Medicare and the Royal commission on Health Services.

CONCLUSION

HEALTH (MEDICAL) CARE & INSURANCE (we call it Medicare) is still our most popular program … it’s an essential need for every citizen in our country. Health care is VERY important!

Personal Comments

I say:

1.      That I’ve always considered myself fortunate to live in a country where everyone is covered by a medical insurance program.  No matter what the income, employment status, age or state of health, if you meet residency requirements, you have access to health care. I believe that no Canadian resident has been turned away from our hospital doors due to lack of money.

2.      That while it may seem to many that our health care is free, they’re wrong…VERY WRONG. It costs a lot. We pay taxes …. I think the taxes in Quebec are the highest in North America. There are also many services that are non-insured – therefore, these are out-of-pocket payments.

3.      That although I complain about our health care system and there has been a lot of talk about its flaws and needing improvement, I do realize that overall, we have a good one.

4.      That the emergency room is a big problem as patients must wait and wait. And when they are treated, and as there is insuffient patient cubicles, patients on gurneys are in the hall ways and even the waiting room. Now how sick is that?  I cannot stomach when a senior person in pain is left unattended in a hospital for long periods of time – we must fix this!

5.      That Canada’s Medicare is transportable. If we are travelling anywhere in Canada, we are also covered for necessary medical care.

6.      That in the future, I foresee:

6.1  That there will be more and more out-of-pocket payment for treatments that will no longer be covered by the government health insurance. 

6.2  That people, who can’t afford to have the treatments, will probably do without. 

6.3  That seniors will be affected the most. 

7.  That every citizen in need should have access to medical assistance. 

8.  That doctors and nurses should not be overworked. 

The Point

When it comes to heath care, we must do much better and fast! It is true that more information is required on the development and implementation of Medicare. However, we all must tell the politicians to cut ot the ‘blah blah’ and make REAL improvements NOW!

ANTOINETTE’S TIP SHEET*

Here are my pros and cons to the Quebec version of HEALTH (MEDICAL) CARE & INSURANCE:

Pros: 

  • No hospital bills or doctor bills
  • Everyone has access to Medicare
  • Doctors do not recommend unnecessary surgeries
  • Free home nurses for the elderly and chronically ill
  • Free mammograms, colonoscopy, etc.
  • Free ambulance transportation for the elderly

Cons:

  • Long waiting periods for elective procedure
  • Must get a referral from a family doctor to see a specialist
  • Basic hospital rooms
  • Shortage of doctors and nurses
  • Doctors are allowed to opt out of Medicare
  • VERY HIGH TAXES

I don’t know whether this post is what the doctor ordered, but I hope that it will make the medicine go down easier! Oh by the way … before I leave, since I gave you an appointment to come today and you came, now I can assure you there won’t be a charge … You thought that I was just kidding … well you’ll never know!

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 (now, tentatively Monday, August 27th 2012): With Labour Day next week, I thought that it would be interesting to look into the history of this holiday- it is celebrated in many parts of the world. Of course, I will share some of my feelings about this day, more or less,  as a season changer and a time to getting down to work. I would like you to come by. Don’t worry…it will not be too serious and dry. We’ll relax and get into the easy-going mood for Labour Day.  (Editor’s Note: This is another post in a continuing series on holidays and special dates.)

PREVIEW (now, tentatively Monday, September 17th 2012): I will return to the romance theme. I am hearing a lot about Fifty Shades of Grey by T.L. James. I say: “Now, that’s a VERY spicy  meat ball!” I want to add my two cents to the discussion. (Editor’s Note: This is another post in a continuing series on dating, relationships and marriage.)

P.S. WOWEE the first big changes have FINALLY come to www.saveandread.com and thus to my blog. Check them out on the home page. I am told that there is much more coming: images, videos, book links and even an on-line  store selling products under my very own brand. I can’t wait! 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/© 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: Albert Einstein

“It’s not that I’m so smart, it’s just that I stay with problems longer.” (Source: Wisdom Quotes) –  http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/wisdom/)

S & R* QUOTE #2: Benjamin Franklin

“Early to bed and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise.” (Source: Wisdom Quotes) – http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/wisdom/)

S & R* QUOTE #3: Theodore Roosevelt:

“Nine-tenths of wisdom consists in being wise in time.”

(Source: Wisdom Quotes) – http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/wisdom/index3.html)

TWO – “IT WORDS FOR ME!*”
For today, my word/phrase(s) are: “health diet”; “health care”; Medicare; etc.

Healthy Diet

“A healthy diet is one that helps maintain or improve general health. It is important for lowering many chronic health risks, such as obesity, heart disease, diabetes, hypertension and cancer.[1] A healthy diet involves consuming appropriate amounts of all essential nutrients and an adequate amount of water. Nutrients can be obtained from many different foods, so there are numerous diets that may be considered healthy.”

Health Care

“Health care (or healthcare) is the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease, illness, injury, and other physical and mental impairments in humans. Health care is delivered by practitioners in medicine, chiropractic, dentistry, nursing, pharmacy, allied health, and other care providers. It refers to the work done in providing primary care, secondary care and tertiary care, as well as in public health.”

Medicare

“Medicare (French: assurance-maladie) is the unofficial name for Canada‘s publicly funded universal health insurance system.[1] The formal terminology for the insurance system is provided by the Canada Health Act and the health insurance legislation of the individual provinces and territories.” (Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medicare_(Canada))

THREE – STUDY/STATISTICS:

Under the terms of the Canada Health Act, all “insured persons” (basically, legal residents of Canada, including permanent residents) are entitled to receive “insured services” without copayment. Such services are defined as medically necessary services if provided in hospital, or by ‘practitioners’ (usually physicians).[2] Approximately 70% of Canadian health expenditures come from public sources, with the rest paid privately (both through private insurance, and through out-of-pocket payments). The extent of public financing varies considerably across services. For example, approximately 99% of physician services, and 90% of hospital care, are paid by publicly funded sources, whereas almost all dental care is paid for privately.[3] Most doctors are self-employed private entities.

The first implementation of public hospital care in Canada came at the provincial level in Saskatchewan in 1946 and in Alberta in 1950, under provincial governments led by the Co-operative Commonwealth Federation and the Social credit party respectively [4]. The first implementation of nationalized public health care -at the federal level- came about with the Hospital Insurance and Diagnostic Services act (HIDS), which was passed by the Liberal majority government of Louis St. Laurent in 1957 [5], and was adopted by all provinces by 1961. Lester B. Pearson‘s government subsequently expanded this policy to universal health care with the Medical Care Act in 1966.[6] Some have argued[citation needed] that these developments towards public national health care came as a result of the Saskatchewan government’s health plan in 1961-1962 by Douglas and Woodrow Stanley Lloyd, who became premier of the province when Douglas resigned to become the leader of the new federal New Democratic Party, though the medicare legislation itself was actually drafted (and first proposed to parliament) by Allan MacEachen, a Liberal MP from Cape Breton [7]. (Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medicare_(Canada))

Medicare is a national social insurance program, administered by the U.S. federal government since 1965, that guarantees access to health insurance for Americans ages 65 and older and younger people with disabilities as well as people with end stage renal disease.

In 1965, Congress created Medicare under Title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide health insurance to people age 65 and older, regardless of income or medical history.

In 1972, Congress expanded Medicare eligibility to younger people who have permanent disabilities and receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) payments and those who have end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Congress further expanded Medicare in 2001 to cover younger people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS, or Lou Gehrig’s disease). Initially Medicare consisted exclusively of Part A, which covers hospital and other inpatient services, and Part B, which covers outpatient care, physician visits, and other “medically necessary services.” Congress then added Medicare Part C (originally called Medicare+Choice, then later changed to Medicare Advantage), which allows enrollees to receive their Medicare benefits through a private plan, under the Balanced Budget Act of 1997, while Medicare Part D was created under the Medicare Modernization Act of 2003. (Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) –http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medicare_(United_States))

FIVE – BONUS ARTICLES

S & R*NEWS ALERT*#1: Cuts to neurologists’ fees could mean longer wait times

“If you are the 1 in approximately 100 Ontarians with epilepsy, you may find yourself waiting longer than ever for essential medical tests thanks to recent cuts to the OHIP fees payable to the province’s neurologists.

In addition to a 10 per cent decrease in technical fees, the government is proposing a 50 per cent reduction in fees for tests it deems self-referrals, which in reality are just tests being done by doctors in their own practices.

The chair of the Ontario Medical Association (OMA) Section of Neurology says that while the Liberal government talks about a commitment to improving the quality of care in Ontario, the new changes being implemented unilaterally suggest the opposite.

If the only timely way to provide care is for a doctor to do the test himself, I don’t see how cutting the fees for a test done in a doctor’s office rather than somewhere else is going to improve care, says Dr. Edwin Klimek.

While the wait time to see a neurologist in Ontario varies, six months is not unheard of. Quite often, doing the test in the specialist’s office speeds things up, and also saves the patient from having to travel to a different clinic, to a hospital, or in smaller communities not getting the test at all.

Neurologists care for patients with a range of illnesses such as Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, headache, Parkinson’s disease, Lou Gehrig’s disease and of course, epilepsy. To diagnose and treat a patient with epilepsy, a neurologist must conduct a 20-minute test called electroencephalography, or EEG, which can identify seizure-prone areas of the brain.

The technical fee reduction claws back the fees for EEGs to the same rate payable in 1992. Dr. Klimek calls this a real bone of contention for his members, who say technical fees have been inadequately funded for years, with many neurologists paying out-of-pocket to purchase the necessary equipment and subsidize lab expenses so their patients get the care they need. He says it’s possible some neurologists simply won’t be able to afford the tests anymore.

A neurologist is already going to break even or lose money on a test, and now they are going to be subject to a further 10 per cent reduction, says Dr. Klimek. Why would they choose to keep providing that test, aside from loyalty to their patients and their technician? Can you really keep providing a service at a loss? At some point you have to say ‘uncle’.

Neurologists are calling for the Premier to rescind the fee cuts to physician services and to resume negotiations with the OMA. They say they are willing to work with the government to find savings in the health system, but never at the expense of patients.

I’m professionally accountable every time I talk to a person. They should expect the best care possible, every time I see them, says Dr. Klimek. Poor outcomes cannot be justified by inadequate infrastructure.”www.newscanada.com

S & R*NEWS ALERT*#2:Surgical assistants says cuts could jeopardize patient safety, access to care

“The doctors who help make surgery safer in this province by acting as an extra pair of hands and eyes for lead surgeons, are deeply concerned recent cuts to OHIP fees unilaterally imposed by the government will jeopardize patient safety and access to care.

Our surgical assistants are alarmed about the impact these changes could have on patients and the care that is provided to them, says Dr. David Esser, Chair of the Section of Surgical Assistants at the Ontario Medical Association (OMA). When a mother is in trouble at 2 a.m. because her baby is in distress, the surgeon needs to have qualified assistants on hand to provide the care that will save both their lives.

The government’s decision to eliminate funding for neural monitoring during surgery on or near the spinal cord is one area surgical assistants believe will seriously impact patient safety and quality of care. This monitoring of critical nerve pathways is done to identify early, any damaging operative technique that the surgeon cannot detect, helping prevent paralysis and other irreversible damage.

Another key issue is the cut in the premiums payable to those who work in the evening and overnight hours: a 20 per cent reduction for the 5 p.m. to midnight shift, and 13.5 per cent for midnight to 7 a.m.

Dr. Esser and his colleagues say the reduction means fewer doctors may sign up to be on call, when patients often need them the most. This could lead to gaps in schedules and a push to do in the daytime, emergencies from the night before, resulting in longer waits for patients needing either emergency or elective surgery.

There is currently a shortage of surgical assistants in the province. A recent survey of 340 Ontario surgeons by the OMA Section of Surgical Assistants showed a high percentage of these surgeons having to either postpone or cancel surgeries after hours, or use unqualified staff to perform emergency surgeries, a situation some of them describe as dangerous.

I believe the majority of surgical assistants will continue to work in spite of the cuts because they care about patients, says Dr. Esser. But the impact of a few who may reduce or stop doing evening and weekend on call may be irreparable.

Dr. Esser says surgical assistants want the government to rescind the cuts and get back to negotiations with the OMA before the changes impact patient access and erode the quality of care in Ontario.” www.newscanada.com

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

Posted by on August 20th, 2012 4 Comments

FIRST DAY OF (BACK TO) SCHOOL: I say, “let’s make this year the most educational ever!* – UPDATE 2012

Vol. 3,  No. 18, Monday, August 13, 2012
 

TITLE: “FIRST DAY OF (BACK TO) SCHOOL:  I  say, “let’s make this year the most educational ever!*” – UPDATE 2012

INTRODUCTION

Continuing on in with last week’s theme, I will do an update of my post, first published on August 21, 2011, titled, “FIRST DAY OF (BACK TO) SCHOOL:  I  say, “let’s make this year the most educational ever!*” Now, I have a question … did everyone bring a pencil and paper. It’s on the list! If not, well … I won’t be cross. But you know dearies, you have to pay attention! 

My mail box is now filled with flyers shouting “They’re going back” and “Back to School”. On TV, the commercials are announcing great sales for children’s wear and school supplies.  I therefore can’t help, but think about children and adolescents and the approaching first day of school. My book of the week is “Best-Ever Back-to-School Activities: 50 Winning and Welcoming Activities, Strategies, and Tips That Save You Time and Get Your School Year Off to a Sensational Start” [Paperback] by Elaine Israel. Hence my subject is the commencement of the school year. (Editor’s Note: This is another post in a continuing series on schooling and returning to class.)

ANTOINETTE’S LIFE & TIMES*

I am thinking back to years past and the few weeks before the start of the school year.

As a mother of five year old girls – this was a long time ago – I remember this as a bitter-sweet time. Summer was over and the children’s day-long play time was then coming to an end; but they were also very excited to go back to school and see their friends. For me, life was about to go back to normal.  I started the preparations in the third week of August. I hit the stores to buy a few school supplies. I only bought the basics because I knew that my daughters would come home in the first week with a list of further items specified by the teacher. I also renewed the wardrobe of each child – I wanted them to look their best. In my perspective, if students started the year well-prepared, they would do better academically.

I also have another point of view. I spent 35 years working in a major college in my home town. The time leading up to opening day was always hectic, but the staff was looking forward to what the new year would bring. Department chairpersons and teachers were calling often to make their final course preparations. Students were calling to solve scheduling problems. Each day, there was more and more to do. Finally day one arrives and students are everywhere.  I usually remarked that they looked younger and younger, although I saw myself as middle aged, not aging much. In the first week, students got their course outlines and teachers started presenting the material.  You could feel the high energy in the air.  The serious students started their work as soon as possible – they don’t waste any time. I commend this attitude – this is the only way to get ahead.

As you know, I have another angle – I am a grandmother with a granddaughter and also a grandson.

Update 2012: More up-to-date, this September, my granddaughter now aged 3-1/2, is going into second year at a pre-kindergarten.  Her pre-school can be considered high-quality. This is so because the children become familiar with letters, numbers and shapes. The children also learn to share and socialize.  The well-trained teachers and stimulating activities are making a difference with my granddaughter.  She asks many intelligent questions and I am sure the pre-school can be credited, to a certain extent, for her advancement.  Important as well, she is looking forward to going back to class. I understand from  her that she wants to see her little friends … but there is this one little boy in particular, … apparently, he’s very cute … I’ll keep you posted!

THE AUTHOR: Elaine Israel

Elaine Israel is an author of children’s books. She is also an editor. She is versatile. She knows how to talk to kids. She is therefore able to give pointers to school teachers.
 
SERIES/COLLECTION
Books/Articles:
Some books are:

  • Hilary Duff (Today’s Superstars: Entertainment)
  • Election 2000 – Time for Kids Readers
  • The Official Study Guide for All Sat Subject Tests
  • Celebrate the Winter Holidays: Sensational Activities & Helpful Background Information That Help Kids Learn About & Appreciate Five Important Holidays
  • The World Almanac and Book of Facts 2002

THE BOOK: “Best-Ever Back-to-School Activities: 50 Winning and Welcoming Activities, Strategies, and Tips That Save You Time and Get Your School Year Off to a Sensational Start” [Paperback] by Elaine Israel (Author)

This is a book addressing primary grade teachers. Israel gives them pointers on HOW-TO achieve a better launch of the school year. Her chapters signify her priorities. According to her, these are: 1) Introduction: the First Day & Getting to know you; 2) Mini- Books; 3) Making books;  4) Bulletin boards, 5) Perfect Poems: A Song to Sing; Riddle poems; 6)  Top Ten Start- of- the- Year Stories. Here’s a ‘for instance’, under the “First Day”, Israel grabs you with a sub-title: “Build community and establish routines with activities that will make the first day of school a stunning success.” Now that’s a great goal – I buy into that. Wouldn’t any parent? She follows that with a sub–heading, “Alumni visits: and explains how “To give your students an idea of what the coming year will bring.” She also wants to break the ice between future school friends. Her idea is called “Good Morning” Match. As per Israel, she thinks that “Each child’s cubby holds a welcoming surprise with an activity that makes it easy for new classmates to meet one another or get reacquainted and share a favourite book.” She also offers a “Calendar surprise” She explains that “a surprise awaits your students each day with this easy to-make this lift- the- flap- calendar”.  It appears to be a continuing interest builder, helping making school fresh. The book seems to be a winner. Read it and become aware and help your child to succeed.

CONCLUSION

The future of your child is substantially dependent upon his/her schooling. You should do everything possible to ensure that his/her education is the best that it could be.  

Personal Comments

Every parent needs information to help their kids in their educational career.  A parent should know what to expect by the day he/she drops the child in the school yard as they march into school at the start of the school year. I think that armed with this information, a parent could prepare his/her child better and of course, better preparation should result in better grades. And the student has a greater chance to excel in his/her school career.

With young students, a parent needs to be hands on closely monitoring his/her child in school work and activities.  With teenage students, a parent needs to supervise their offspring attentively. They need to review school correspondence and reports. They need to ask questions and have a yearlong dialogue, insisting upon results. With college age students, initiate discussions and offer recommendations. 

Teachers, principals, school board members and educators at all levels will tell you that the first few days of the school year are key. What happens and doesn’t happen could spell a good year or a bad one.

The Point

Your child’s education is VERY important. You have a role.  The school year is about to start. You need to become informed and active right away. 

ANTOINETTE’S TIP SHEET*

Every parent of a student should: 

1. Consider the appropriate school for your child/adolescent, today and tomorrow and after tomorrow; (More about this next week.)
2. Research the curriculum of the coming school year – encouraging your child to get a head start on the reading is always a good idea;
3. Think about after school; to this end,
3.1 Inquire into the extra- curricular activities being offered  – signing up early is another good idea;  try to have one physical activity/sports plus one hobby/interest club.
4. Shop for back to school wisely; in this regard, 
4.1 Look for the sales at major retailers – school supplies are usually discounted to get you into the store.    
4.2 Buy hi-value clothing: strong seams, good fabrics and multipacks; and supplement the new articles with spruced- up hand me downs from siblings and close family; 
5. Plan to start the school year by serving up nutritious meals; to this end,
5.1 Make a complete breakfast for the youngsters – they need fuel to learn;
5.2  Use a variety of food groups: high food value, low calories/cholesterol;
6. Think about routine; more precisely, 
6.1 Limit usage of TV, computer, Internet, video games, etc.; nevertheless, keep in mind that educational TV programming is beneficial – so is research on the web! 

6.2 Reserve quiet time, reading time, etc.
6.3 Set age appropriate bedtimes in order to permit sleep hours sufficient for age;
7. Get involved at school:
7.1 Introduce yourself to the principal and teachers;
7.2 Join parent-teacher school group; etc.

Your child (and you) can and should enjoy this time in school.  Help him/her to succeed and be happy. I hope that you give me an A+ on this blog post!

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 (now, tentatively Monday, August 20th 2012): In our province, we are currently having a general election. Health care is a major topic. In the United States. Medicare is a key issue in the U.S. presidential election now in full swing. I am not sure whether it’s what the doctor ordered, but I have SOMETHING to say on the subject. I’ll give you an appointment to come next Monday August 20th about 11:00 A.M. If you don’t show, there will be a charge…just kidding. (Editor’s Note: This is another post in a continuing series on Health.)

PREVIEW (now, tentatively Monday, September 17th 2012): I will return to the romance theme. I am hearing a lot about Fifty Shades of Grey by T.L. James. I say: “Now, that’s a VERY spicy  meat ball!” I want to add my two cents to the discussion. (Editor’s Note: This is another post in a continuing series on dating, relationships and marriage.)

P.S. Big News: I am so excited – I’m told that THIS WEEK, we will be uploading the new look Antoinette’s Page* and Antoinette’s Blog*. There are more 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

-Web Tech:  richmediasound.com
The above is a new media production of Valente under its “United Author*” program.
*TM/© 2012 Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved.
===============================================================

PAGE 2

SAVE AND READ* (S&R*) BACKGROUNDER: ANTOINETTE’S 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5

 1.      “I SHOULD HAVE SAID THAT!*” – QUOTES

S & R* QUOTE #1: – Heinrich Heine
“Experience is a good school. But the fees are high.”
(Source:  Wisdom Quotes) –  http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/experience/

S & R* QUOTE #2:  Rabbinical saying
“Don’t limit a child to your own learning, for he was born in another time.”
(Source:  Wisdom Quotes) – http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/children/index7.html

S & R* QUOTE #3: Virginia Woolf
“The first duty of a lecturer: to hand you after an hour’s discourse a nugget of pure truth to wrap up between the pages of your notebooks, and keep on the mantlepiece forever.”
(Source:  Wisdom Quotes) – http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/education/index9.html

2.      BONUS INFO:  “IT WORDS FOR ME!*”
For today, my word/phrase(s) are: “school”; “student”; “education”; etc.

School

“A school is an institution designed for the teaching of students (or “pupils”) under the direction of teachers. Most countries have systems of formal education, which is commonly compulsory. In these systems, students progress through a series of schools. The names for these schools vary by country (discussed in the Regional section below), but generally include primary school for young children and secondary school for teenagers who have completed primary education. An institution where higher education is taught, is commonly called a university college or university.”
(Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/School

Student

“A student is a learner, or someone who attends an educational institution. In some nations, the English term (or its cognate in another language) is reserved for those who attend university, while a schoolchild under the age of eighteen is called a pupil in English (or an equivalent in other languages). In its widest use, student is used for anyone who is learning.”
(Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Student

Education

“Education in the general sense is any act or experience that has a formative effect on the mind, character, or physical ability of an individual. In its technical sense, education is the process by which society deliberately transmits its accumulated knowledge, skills, and values from one generation to another. Etymologically, the word education is derived from educare (Latin) “bring up”, which is related to educere “bring out”, “bring forth what is within”, “bring out potential” and ducere, “to lead”.[1]
(Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) –http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Image_filter_referendum

3.  NUMBERS: STUDY/STATISTICS

Back-to-School Shopping
“7.2 billion

The amount of money spent at family clothing stores in August 2009. Only in December were sales significantly higher. Similarly, sales at bookstores in August 2009 totaled $2.5 billion, an amount approached in 2009 only by sales in January.
Source: Monthly Retail Trade and Food Services <http://www.census.gov/mrts/www/mrts.html>

“For back-to-school shopping, choices of retail establishments abound: In 2007, there were 27,326 family clothing stores, 7,036 children and infants clothing stores, 27,213 shoe stores, 9,754 office supply and stationery stores, 23,756 sporting goods stores, 10,635 bookstores and 10,116 department stores.”
Source: County Business Patterns: 2007 <http://www.census.gov/econ/cbp/>

“76 million
The number of children and adults enrolled in school throughout the country in October 2008 — from nursery school to college. They comprised 27 percent of the entire population 3 and older.
Source: School Enrollment — Social and Economic Characteristics of Students: October 2008″ <http://www.census.gov/population/www/socdemo/school/cps2008.html>

“Lunchtime
31 million
Average number of children participating each month in the national school lunch program in 2008.
Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, as cited in the Statistical Abstract of the United States: 2010, Table 558″ <http://www.census.gov/compendia/statab/>

“College
19.1 million
The projected number of students enrolled in the nation’s colleges and universities this fall. This is up from 13.8 million 20 years ago.
Source: U.S. National Center for Education Statistics as cited in the Statistical Abstract of the United States: 2010, Table 214:” <http://www.census.gov/compendia/statab/>
(Source: US Census Bureau) – http://www.census.gov/newsroom/releases/archives/facts_for_features_special_editions/cb10-ff14.html

4. ADDITIONAL ARTICLES
S & R* NEWS ALERT* #1: 

Top of the class and talk of the campus conquerin university this semester
Weekends at the cottage are starting to get cooler and that means autumn is on its way. For students heading back to school, it’s time to pack up the car, dust off the suitcases and get ready for classes again. While they don’t have to worry about hitting the books just yet, students who are starting to think about how to get organized might also want to think about the technology tools that can help. Whether it’s staying productive in the classroom, or keeping entertained on campus, technology can play a supporting role.

Mini fridges, twin-sized beds and a couple of drawers to yourself; college life can mean having little to no personal space. Limiting the number of devices you bring to campus is a smart option. Tablets like the affordable BlackBerry PlayBook are all-in-one productivity and entertainment devices. It’s portable, has Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, email, social media, and tons of apps. It can also connect to an HD TV to watch movies, play games or work on a class presentation on a larger screen.  

Life on CampusStudents are always on the move. No matter where they head this semester, roaming charges can make phone calls and text messages expensive. Skip the fees by using instant messaging apps like BlackBerry Messenger or social media apps like Facebook and Twitter on your smartphone; it’s the perfect way for the family to stay close without anyone’s wallet having to suffer.Late night pizza runs are also a rite of passage for many students. Using a smartphone and apps can help students keep in shape. AdidasmiCoach, Endomondo and Calorie Tracker by LiveSTRONG can serve as an on-campus personal trainer, motivator, music player, and nutritionist.College life is go-go-go and it comes with a whole new load of responsibilities; grocery shopping, class lectures, studying in the library and maybe even a part-time job. With calendars, internet browsers, alarm clocks and notepads, your smartphone really can be your all-in-one task management tool. Stay on top of things and ensure that you still have time to hang out with new friends on the weekends. www.newscanada.com

S & R* NEWS ALERT* #2:

www.newscanada.com

How to ease bank-to-school for your child
The sweet scent of summer may still be lingering in the air, but your child’s first day of school is fast approaching. Transitioning from the blissfully hazy days of summer to the structure of school days can be a tough one, but it doesn’t have to be. Sally Morse, director of creative services for window fashions company, Hunter Douglas, reviews some tips to make back to school preparation easier for both you and your child.

Establish a schedule – After all those carefree summer days, it’s important to incorporate a little more structure into your child’s day to ease the back-to-school transition. Begin by slowly adjusting bedtime, wake-up time and eating schedules, so that by the time school starts your child will be accustomed to a routine.

Involve Your Kids – The more your child feels a part of the back-to-school planning, the more enthusiastic he or she is likely to become. This could include allowing them to help with setting up play dates, shopping for school supplies or buying new outfits for school.

Goals – Brainstorming a few goals for the school year with your kids is a great way to be involved in their academic career, but also allow them to work toward something on their own. Try discussing one academic goal and one social goal for the semester.

Study Area – Finding the right space in your home is critical for productive and effective studying. Every child learns differently and retention of information is largely dependent on the environment and mood that he or she is working in. To make an improvement at the window, take a look at the Hunter Douglas Silhouette window shadings, which are now available with a cordless lifting system that make it especially ideal for homes with young children.

Mark the Calendar – Before school begins for your child, get the calendar out and write down events and holidays to look forward to as a family. Those school vacations are not only pertinent to your schedule; your child will enjoy feeling included in the planning of family trips or weekend getaways. For example, mark down a date in late October to go Halloween costume shopping, or anything else that may be meaningful to your child. Although the last days of summer are quickly slipping away, this will remind your child of all the exciting things in store for the fall.

www.newscanada.com

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

Posted by on August 13th, 2012 Comments Off on FIRST DAY OF (BACK TO) SCHOOL: I say, “let’s make this year the most educational ever!* – UPDATE 2012

FINDING BEST (PRE-, GRADE, MIDDLE OR HIGH) SCHOOL, COLLEGE, UNIVERSITY FOR YOUR CHILD- I say: Every parent should research this thoroughly!* – UPDATE AUGUST 2012

Vol. 3, No.17, Monday, August 6, 2012

TITLE: “FINDING BEST (PRE-, GRADE, MIDDLE OR HIGH) SCHOOL, COLLEGE, UNIVERSITY FOR YOUR CHILD – I say: Every parent should research this thoroughly!*” – UPDATE AUGUST 2012

INTRODUCTION

Today, with the start of the educational year, I am thinking about the intense desire on the part of mothers and fathers in choosing the right school for their young children or advising and assisting their adolescents on the best college for them. My book of the week is:  “The Global Achievement Gap: Why Our Kids Don’t Have the Skills They Need for College, Careers, and Citizenship – And What We Can Do About It” [Hardcover] by Tony Wagner (Author).  Hence, my subject is the search for the best school for your child, and also the best college or university for your teenager. (Editor’s Note: This is the third of a series on parenting, schooling and the return to class.)

ANTOINETTE’S LIFE & TIMES*

The schooling of the baby boom generation was not so complex. When I was growing up, I lived in a district of many immigrants, all hard working and aspiring to build a better life for their families. My parents, being immigrants, felt that it was great that their children were getting an education in the great country that Canada then was and continues to be. In addition, they were also proud of their Italian origin and culture. They knew how important it was for us, the next generation, to be able to speak Italian and better partake in the richness of the culture originating in Italy. As a result, we spoke Italian at home, and my parents subscribed to religious magazines from Italy, Italian Montreal newspaper(s); they also turned on the Italian program both on radio and TV.

For most of us kids, there wasn’t a choice – we went to the grade school closest to our home. This was a public school, at the time, a part of the English Catholic commission.  For high school, it was the same story.  It is accurate to say that these schools, which we attended, were populated with children mostly of immigrant Italian families.  The atmosphere was positive and the students learned well. Many went on to higher education. I then moved up through the grades and graduated. As the girl, I attended commercial college and went out to work.  Perhaps, it is nostalgia, but it seemed simpler then.

When it came to my daughters, I did my research and found good schools, first primary, then high, all close by.  These were also public schools, at the time, a part of the English Catholic commission. It is accurate to say that these schools, which they attended, were populated with children mostly of middle class Italian families. The atmosphere was also positive and the students learned well. I didn’t miss the school meetings – I needed to stay up to date on the programs offered and what my daughters were studying. Generally, we parents were very pleased with these schools.  The public school system worked for me. Oh, by the way, I also sent my kids to Italian School, on Saturday mornings.  I also believed the Italian language and culture were something to nurture.

My frame of reference derived also from my career. I was employed in a top rate college in my home city. (N.B. I spent 30+ years there; and it was a privilege to work in such a place and work with such wonderful people.) It is considered a leading institution in its category.

Update August 2012

More up to date, in September, my granddaughter – now almost 3-1/2 years old, will be returning for her second year at Pre-Kindergarten (Pre-K).  My granddaughter has learned a lot in pre-kindergarten and made many little friends.  She’s looking forward to going back in September and that’s a very good sign.

In a year, my grandson will be attending the same pre-kindergarten.  Besides learning there is a social atmosphere to this pre-kindergarten that is so important for children.  It is a high quality pre-kindergarten.  A good pre-school prepares a child and advances a child to do well in elementary school. It also gives a child confidence.

Soon, my daughter – her mother and her husband will be looking for a good elementary school for her.  They already have one in mind. My daughter is very careful in selecting the right one.  She will verify its program and reputation.  

THE AUTHOR:  Tony Wagner

Tony Wagner was a high school teacher, school principal and university professor in teacher education.  Wagner earned a Masters of Arts in Teaching and Doctorate in Education at Harvard University. His CV work experience includes: (a) Co-Director of the Change Leadership Group (CLG) at the Harvard Graduate School of Education; (b) Faculty member of the Executive Leadership Program for Educators, a joint initiative of Harvard’s Graduate School of Education, Business School, and Kennedy School of Government. He also has consulted far and wide in the education field. He has something to say and he has the background to make his words worthwhile.

SERIES/COLLECTION

Books/Articles:

He is the author of several books:

  • The Global Achievement Gap: Why Even Our Best Schools Don’t Teach the New Survival Skills Our Children Need—And What We Can do About It;
  • Change Leadership: A Practical Guide to Transforming Our Schools;
  • Making the Grade: Reinventing America’s Schools; and
  • How Schools Change: Lessons from Three Communities Revisited.

THE BOOK:  “The Global Achievement Gap: Why Our Kids Don’t Have the Skills They Need for College, Careers, and Citizenship–And What We Can Do About It” [Hardcover] by Tony Wagner (Author)

Wagner, a seasoned educator, had thoughts about the skills needed by today’s young people to get a good job and become a productive citizen, in the fast changing techno age of today and that of the coming years.  The current crop of school administrators inquired how to provide this education. Wagner wrote the book. A great quote is: “What I have seen in some of our best public schools over the past decade is that while Johnny … are learning how to read at least at a basic level … they are not learning how to think … they are not learning to clearly communicate their ideas orally and in writing.” (pg xiii) The chapters have the reach: 1) The New World of Work and The Seven Survival Skills; 2) the Old World of School; 3) Testing 1,2,3; 4) Reinventing the Education Profession; 5)  Motivating Today’s Students and Tomorrow’s Workers; and 6) Closing the Gap- Schools That Work.  By specifying what schooling is needed to best prepare your child for the future gives the frame of reference to determine the best school to enroll your child. This noted educator is telling you what to look for in evaluating prospective schools. This is a valuable reference for parents.

CONCLUSION

Choosing a better school for your young child is important. Giving your teenager advice and assistance to attend a better college and university is important as well.  Yes, we all agree that parents should strive to find the best possible school for their child.  It is the `How-to’, which is difficult! I am sorry to report that this is not as easy or self-evident than it once was. It can also be VERY stressful. If you see the light and want some pointers –  I have some thoughts about this. Please read on.

Personal Comments

There were times when I heard, on the news, about parents camping out half the night to register their kids at a grade school. More recently, from my own experience, I have seen parents insistent that they just have to register their child in a particular program. It really can get intense.  They might argue that this is a matter of life and death – I think that this is a bit much – but I understand their love for their child and their one-minded aim to ensure that he or she will have the maximum educational opportunity available.

What makes a school? It starts with a place having four walls, many class rooms, a gym, a lab, cafeteria-dining room, exterior grounds, etc. It then has people: a school board or commission comprising a chairperson, members, superintendent(s), etc. It also has a school principal, teachers, office and blue collar employees. And of course, there are students and parents.

Many parents believe that their children should go to a better PRE-K. I agree.
Many parents believe that their children should go to a better grade school. I agree.
Many parents believe that their children should go to a better middle school. I agree.
Many parents believe that their children should go to a better high school. I agree.
Many parents believe that their children should go to a better college. I agree.
Many parents believe that their children should go to a better university. I agree.

The question remains: “What makes a school better?” I thought that you would never ask. I think that a school (along with its school board) is better when: (a) It is efficiently run: (i) The building(s) are adequately maintained; (ii). There is sufficient modern equipment; (iii). The facilities are well-staffed; (b) The curriculum and program is good – this means: (i). That the courses are what the student needs to advance in the coming years ultimately to higher education; (ii). That each course is well planned out & the course outline is accurate and complete; (iii). That the course is taught well;  (c) It has a good reputation – this means: (i). That the test scores of students rank high against those of students from others schools; (ii). That the graduates go on to higher education – at better colleges and universities; and (iii). That its standards are high- this could mean that there are entrance exams and a waiting list to get in. (d) The people make the difference – this means : (i). That it has superior teachers-professors (For me, this in turn means that they are not only credentialed, but also, able to teach and inspire students – and the evaluations are excellent to boot. (N.B. I will speak more about this next week.);  (ii). That the administrators, from the board on down, are well-qualified, trained and experienced, and also, highly motivated. (iii). That the children attending the school have been instilled with the need to study hard; (iv). The parents are loving and hands-on; (v). The greater community is made up of good people, proud of their locality and institutions like the school, and protective of their children and committed to their future.

What makes a school great?

I believe that the quality of the school is NOT dependent upon the community being one with more disposable income or of any one ethnic background. In contrast, excellent schools can flourish in all areas. I say that it just takes educators who do more than the call of duty. In addition, there are parents who are better than good …. they are special. It’s not the size of their wallets. Instead it is the quantity of the love they have for their children. They sacrifice so much – they want their kids to have even greater opportunity and success than they themselves have had. In addition, they are not simply committed and involved; more, they are selfless volunteers working on home & school committees, lunch & after school programs, etc. These extraordinary people give of themselves to the greater good, the better education of their children and those of their neighbours.

As well, I believe that the quality of the education is not dependent upon the school being private. Many people think that private schools are better than public schools. I say: “Some are better, but some are worse.” There are the pros and cons to both.

Going private is expensive. Some people borrow money in order to do this.  (Indeed, education can be expensive enough without adding the cost of tuition for elementary and high school.) Supposedly, private schools hire better teachers and have better programs, thus giving a better education.  Is that true?  Not always. From my experience, in the public world, certainly in the college where I worked, I have come across many wonderful teachers – they would compare nicely with those in the private institutions.

I also have some words of caution about the private world.   I am under the impression that expensive private schools tend to have a problem with drugs. I heard a story about a private elite school.  A number of students were getting high and others were pushers.  Not to say, public schools are exempted from this problem, but many of the students don’t have that kind of money to buy drugs. In addition, since money talks, the school may be more vulnerable, than the public schools, to pressure, strong to subtle, of an interest group or people espousing a certain point of view. A school might toe the line if parents threaten to pull their children out of class or discontinue planned giving: donations and endowments.

I further believe that the quality of the school is NOT dependent upon the student population being children of the rich and famous. Many people think that this will benefit them … the right connections could possibly direct them to a better life. But there is also a down side to this:  there probably is a golden spoon in the mouth of a child of the super rich. These children get what they want and their parents, who in many cases, are too busy with their careers, give them everything and anything they desire. Money may be unlimited for these kids. Middle class kids, on the other hand, if attending such a school, cannot hope to have the same money to throw around. This might create problems. They might feel less fortunate, perhaps have an inferiority complex.

The Point

Searching (and researching) for the best school for your child, and also the best college or university for your teenager is time well spent!

ANTOINETTE’S TIP SHEET*

Every parent interested in their child’s education should:
1. Research the schools in your home town community, both public and private, etc.;

2. Inquire into public schools – there are many that are run very efficiently, offer very good programs and are VERY WELL respected;

3. Investigate: (a) The atmosphere of the school; (b) The population of the school- check if the staff is knowledgeable and cordial and if there are parents like you, who are committed and involved;

4. Ask such questions:
4.1 “What type of education does the school offer?”

4.2 “What are the programs, diplomas offered, etc.?”
4.3 “What are the qualifications of the teachers?”
4.4 “Does the school offer activities, sports, etc.?”
4.5 “Is there research being carried on?”;

5. ”Look for recommendations of past students and inquire into their moving onto even higher education.

6. Try to stay within your means.

Bonus: Missed registration date …. now what?

You may be officially late, but you’re not necessarily down and out. Here are my tips:

  1. Go to the Office/Registrar without delay and (a) Make an application; (b) Ask about the “wait list” and get yourself added;
  2. Submit as a supplement to your child’s application: (a) Letters about your child’s hobbies, sports, accomplishments, etc.
  3. Offer letters of reference about your child
  4. Inquire about the possibility of entering the program by transferring in mid year from another program or another school, especially one well respected and recognized as a “feeder” school
  5. Call the Registrar often and ask for an update – it’s best that they know your name
  6. Check who are on the Board of Directors – explain you need advice and ask for a meeting
  7. Find out if the school has a foundation, endowment program or in need of a donation for a long-awaited project– it cannot hurt!

Teach the parents to search for the best school for their child or teenager. If the child excels, I grade you ‘E’ for excellent!

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 Monday, August 13th 2012): Continuing on in with this theme, I will do an update of my post, first published on August 21, 2011, titled, “FIRST DAY OF (BACK TO) SCHOOL:  I  say, “let’s make this year the most educational ever!*” Oh by the way, it’s not obligatory, but I ask everyone to bring a pencil and paper. It’s on the list! (Editor’s Note: This is another post in a continuing series on schooling and returning to class.)

PREVIEW (now, tentatively Monday, September 17th 2012): I will return to the romance theme. I am hearing a lot about Fifty Shades of Grey by T.L. James. I say: “Now, that’s a VERY spicy  meat ball!” I want to add my two cents to the discussion. (Editor’s Note: This is another post in a continuing series on dating, relationships and marriage.)

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/© 2012 Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved.
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NEED SOMETHING FURTHER? TRY SAVE AND READ* (S&R*) BACKGROUNDER: ANTOINETTE’S 1, 2, 3. 4 & 5

ONE – S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTE #1: Mum’s the Word
“One morning while attending Timbertops School in Australia, Prince Charles attended a service at the local parish church. As the royal visitor left his church, the rector apologized for the small turnout: “Being bank holiday weekend,” he explained, “most of the parishioners are away.” “Not another bank holiday!” the prince exclaimed. “What’s this one in aid of?” “Well,” the rector replied, rather embarrassed, “over here we call it the Queen’s birthday.”
(Source: www.anecdotage.com) – http://www.anecdotage.com/index.php?aid=5981

S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTE #2: Amy C
“Amy Carter brought an assignment home one Friday night while her father [Jimmy Carter] was still President. Stumped by a question on the Industrial Revolution, Amy sought help from her mother. “Rosalynn was also fogged by the question and, in turn, asked an aide to seek clarification from the Labor Department. A ‘rush’ was placed on the request since the assignment was due Monday. “Thinking the question was a serious request from the Prez himself, a Labor Department official immediately cranked up the government computer and kept a full team of technicians and programmers working overtime all weekend – at a reported cost of several hundred thousand dollars. “The massive computer printout was finally delivered by truck to the White House on Sunday afternoon and Amy showed up in class with the official answer the following day. But her history teacher was not impressed. When Amy’s paper was returned, it was marked with a big red ‘C.’”
(Source: www.anecdotage.com) – http://www.anecdotage.com/index.php?aid=3662

S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTE #3: Mad Laughter
“The only disadvantage I laboured under at St Paul’s School,” Eric Newby once recalled, “was that I had a curious sense of humour which meant that if anything came up in class that had a suggestion of double entendre it caused me to dissolve into hysterics for which I was punished, sometimes quite severely. In other words, I had a dirty mind. “For instance, on one occasion when we were reading [Sir Walter] Scott’s Marmion aloud, it became obvious to myself and everyone else in the class that by the working of some hideously unnatural process of selection it would fall to me to read a completely unreadable part of the romance in Canto Two, entitled ‘The Convent,’ which concerned the blind Bishop of Lindisfarne. And you could have heard a pin drop when I got to my feet. “‘No hand was moved, no word was said “Till thus the Abbot’s door was given “Raising his sightless balls to heaven -’ “was all I could manage before going off into peals of mad laughter and to be beaten by John Bell, the High Master, who showed where his sympathies lay by beating me hard and then giving me a shilling. I have never forgiven Scott.” (Source: www.anecdotage.com) –  http://www.anecdotage.com/index.php?aid=13316

TWO – “I SHOULD HAVE SAID THAT!*” – QUOTES
S & R* QUOTE #1: Oprah Winfrey
“For everyone of us that succeeds, it’s because there’s somebody there to show you the way out. The light doesn’t always necessarily have to be in your family; for me it was teachers and school.”(Source:  Wisdom Quotes) –  http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/education/

S & R* QUOTE #2:  Benjamin Franklin
“Genius without education is like silver in the mine.”
(Source:  Wisdom Quotes) – http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/education/

S & R* QUOTE #3: John F. Kennedy
“Our progress as a nation can be no swifter than our progress in education. The human mind is our fundamental resource.” (Source:  Wisdom Quotes) – http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/education/

THREE – “IT WORDS FOR ME!*”
For today, my word/phrase(s) are: “school”; “private school”; “public school”; etc.

School
“A school is an institution designed for the teaching of students (or “pupils”) under the direction of teachers. Most countries have systems
of formal education, which is commonly compulsory. In these systems, students progress through a series of schools. The names for these schools vary by country (discussed in the Regional section below), but generally include primary school for young children and secondary school for teenagers who have completed primary education. An institution where higher education is taught, is commonly called a university college or university.”
(Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/School

“Private schools, also known as independent schools or nonstate schools,[1] are not administered by local, state or national governments; thus, they retain the right to select their students and are funded in whole or in part by charging their students’ tuition, rather than relying on mandatory taxation through public (government) funding, students can get a scholarship into a private school which makes the cost cheaper depending on a talent the student may have e.g. sport scholarship, art scholarship, academic scholarship etc. In the United Kingdom and several other Commonwealth countries, the use of the term is generally restricted to primary and secondary educational levels; it is almost never used of universities and other tertiary institutions. Private education in North America covers the whole gamut of educational activity, ranging from pre-school to tertiary level institutions. Annual tuition fees at K-12 schools range from nothing at so called ‘tuition-free’ schools to more than $45,000 at several New England preparatory schools.”(Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Private_school

Public schools
“In the United States and Canada, public schools are schools that are paid for by the government. They are open to all students who live nearby without any charge. They are usually paid for through property taxes that are applied to everyone who owns buildings in the area around the school. Public schools started in the United States in the 1800s. Every U.S. state now has free public schools.” (Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_school

FOUR – STUDY/STATISTICS:

“Nearly 50 million students are heading off to approximately 99,000 public elementary and secondary schools for the fall term, and before the school year is out, an estimated $540 billion will be spent related to their education. These are just a few of the statistics contained in Back to School Stats, which offers data about American elementary, secondary and postsecondary schools, students, and the educational process.”
Source: – http://nces.ed.gov/fastfacts/

Elementary and Secondary Education
“In fall 2010, nearly 49.4 million students will attend public elementary and secondary schools. Of these, 34.7 million will be in prekindergarten through 8th grade and 14.7 million will be in grades 9 through 12 (source). An additional 5.8 million students are expected to attend private schools this fall.
About 1,094,000 children are expected to attend public prekindergarten this fall. Enrollment in kindergarten, at approximately 3,693,000, is projected to be at an all-time high (source). Public school systems will employ about 3.3 million teachers this fall, resulting in a pupil/teacher ratio of 15.3, which is lower than in 1999, when the ratio was 16.1. Approximately 0.5 million teachers will be working in private schools this fall, where the pupil/teacher ratio is estimated at 12.8 (source).” Source: – http://nces.ed.gov/fastfacts/display.asp?id=372
College and University Education In fall 2010, a record 19.1 million students are expected to attend the
Nation’s 2-year and 4-year colleges and universities, an increase of about 3.8 million since fall 2000 (source). Source: – http://nces.ed.gov/fastfacts/display.asp?id=372
(Source: US Census Bureau) –

Private schools represent about 24 percent of schools in the nation and educate about 10 percent of the students. (Source: – http://nces.ed.gov/nationsreportcard/about/nonpublicschools.asp#results)
“This report is the first to focus on private school students’ performance on NAEP assessments. It provides results in reading, mathematics, science, and writing in 2000, 2002, 2003, and 2005. Specifically, it focuses on the three private school types that combined enroll the greatest proportion of private school students (Catholic, Lutheran, and Conservative Christian) as well as private schools overall. It also compares the performance of students in these schools to that of public school students to provide additional perspective. Comparing student performance among the three types of private schools highlights several differences at grades 4 and 8 and a few at grade 12. Among the three types of private schools, few significant differences in performance were found at grade 12. The exceptions were that in 2000, the average score in science for grade 12 students in Catholic schools was 6 points higher than for students in Lutheran schools, and that in the 2000 mathematics assessment, a higher percentage of twelfth-graders in Catholic schools performed at or above Proficient than twelfth-graders in Conservative Christian schools. Where differences existed at grades 4 and 8, students in Lutheran schools generally outperformed those in Conservative Christian schools. In some grade/subject combinations, Lutheran school students outperformed Catholic school students, and Catholic school students outperformed Conservative Christian school students. Students at grades 4, 8, and 12 in all categories of private schools had higher average scores in reading, mathematics, science, and writing than their counterparts in public schools. In addition, higher percentages of students in private schools performed at or above Proficient compared to those in public schools.” (Source: – http://nces.ed.gov/pubsearch/pubsinfo.asp?pubid=2006459)

FIVE – BONUS ARTICLES

S & R*NEWS ALERT*#1:From home to school, protect your student By Glenn Cooper

“When your child moves away from home for college or university, there are important changes and responsibilities to consider. Along with the emotional stress of this big change, you also need to consider what the move means for your finances and insurance policies.

Being informed about your insurance coverage is crucial for your child’s protection and wellbeing. While many policies extend parents’ coverage to kids in university, other policies encourage college students to purchase their own insurance.

Parents need to know whether their insurance extends to their children when they are buying a car or moving into an apartment or residence, says Wayne Ross, insurance expert at Aviva Canada. You could find yourself facing a financially-stressful situation that could easily have been avoided.

For a stress-free transition, Ross offers the following helpful tips:

Scope out apartments Living off-campus can help students develop a sense of independence and save some money. However, consider buying a tenant policy in your child’s name so their personal property is protected.

Keep track of their finances University life goes hand-in-hand with expensive purchases like computers and other electronics. Stick to a budget, keep track of your purchase and verify what your insurance covers.

Check your car insurance. Whether your child takes his or her car to university or intends to drive on visits home, call your insurance company to check what your policy includes.

Following these tips can help you breathe a little easier during this time of transition. More information is available from your insurance broker or online at avivacanada.com.” www.newscanada.com

S & R* NEWS ALERT* #2: How to motivate yourself at college and university

“Your college years can be some of the best times of your life. The freedom of not having anyone to answer to combined with the flexibility of arranging your own schedule means you may get to sleep in more and stay out ’til the wee hours of the morning. But this period in your life isn’t supposed to last forever. Here are some tips on how to stay on track and keep motivated:

Stick with the right crowd. You may have learned this lesson already in high school, but it becomes even more important to surround yourself with positive influences in your college years. Find friends who equally balance work and play.

Know your limits. Enrolling in an advanced course because it interests you can be a great way to challenge yourself, but if you feel overwhelmed and miserable it may be time to revisit your plans. College is a great time to discover who you are and how much you can handle. Just don’t overextend yourself and ask for help if you need it.

Value your education. It’s a privilege to attend college and – for most children and families in developing countries it’s a distant dream. International development organization like Christian Children’s Fund of Canada (www.ccfcanada.ca) can help you make a difference in the life of a child living in extreme poverty through education Consider investing in someone’s future as you are investing in your own.” www.newscanada.com

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

Posted by on August 6th, 2012 4 Comments