Archive for November, 2012

“I GIVE YOU MY DELICIOUS RAPINI RECIPE*”

Vol. 3, No.33, Wednesday November 28th, 2012  

CUCINA D’ANTOINETTA*/ANTOINETTE’S KITCHEN*

“the art of food, wine, family & more*”

By Antoinette La Posta

TITLE: “I GIVE YOU MY DELICIOUS RAPINI RECIPE*”

INTRODUCTION

With Christmas coming, I’m planning my Christmas dinner.  One of the dishes I serve, without fail, is rapini.  It’s part of an Italian meal.  It could be served in many different ways. 

ANTONIETTA: MY LIFE & TIMES*

Rapini is my favorite vegetable.  During the Christmas holidays, rapini is usually expensive but it doesn’t stop me from serving it with the Christmas meal.  My mother always made this dish with the holiday meals and family dinners.  Besides being a very healthy vegetable, rapini is also delicious.  Now, my daughters enjoy enjoying rapini with their meals.

SAVORY INGREDIENTS PLUS*

RAPINI

Rapini (also known as broccoli rabé or broccoletti, called by similar names in various European languages, e.g. cime di rapa, rapé, rappi, raap, and raab, and known especially in Naples as friarielli) is a common vegetable in the cuisines of southern Italy (in particular Basilicata, Puglia, and Sicily), Galicia (northwestern Spain, where it is known as grelos), Portugal, the Netherlands[citation needed] and China.

(Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Rapini.jpg

Garlic

Allium sativum, commonly known as garlic, is a species in the onion genus, Allium.(Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Garlic

Olive Oil

Olive oil is a fat obtained from the olive (the fruit of Olea europaea; family Oleaceae), a traditional tree crop of the Mediterranean Basin. (Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Olive_oil

Why I prefer extra virgin olive oil?

I prefer extra virgin olive oil because it has a rich, smooth texture.  A new brand I just discovered is Bertolli Extra Virgin Olive Oil.  It’s absolutely delicious.

HANDY APPLIANCES, UTENSILS, GADGETS, ETC.*

To sauté rapini, I need a good frying pan. Personally, I use a high quality pan with a non-stick surface – it helps reduce fat and it’s easier to clean.  For this recipe,  I usually choose one with sufficient depth.  

Antonietta’s Recipe of the Month – Rapini

SPECIFICATIONS – Ingredients:

  • 6 bunches of rapini
  • 3-4 garlic cloves (diced)
  • 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil
  • Salt to taste

DIRECTIONS

  • Trim off bottoms of rapini (1/4 inch) stalks and put them in a pot covered with water
  • Dice 3-4 garlic cloves and put them in a large frying pan
  • Add 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil
  • Sauté the garlic in olive oil for approximately 15-20 minutes  until it begins to brown
  • Cook till stems are tender (15-20 minutes)
  • Drain water
  • Add salt to taste

LAST BITE*

In this holiday season, rapini is a green decoration for your dinner plate that is healthy and tastes great!

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

And that’s my food favorite for the week, what’s yours? *

ALP

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

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

CREDITS

-Web Tech:  richmediasound.com

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

Posted by on November 28th, 2012 8 Comments

CONCERT REVIEWS: Al Bano Carrisi e’ la mia vita & nel sole / Joe Avati & Back to Basics Tour/SHOW BUSINESS (lyrics, quotes, Broadway): I like it a lot!*

Vol. 3, No.32, Monday, November 26, 2012

TITLE: “ CONCERT REVIEWS: Al Bano Carrisi e’ la mia vita & nel sole / Joe Avati & Back to Basics Tour/SHOW BUSINESS (lyrics, quotes, Broadway): I like it a lot!*” 

INTRODUCTION

Recently, I had the opportunity to go out for the evening twice in one week and I saw two shows. This was truly entertainment … Italian style. The first headliner was  Joe Avati – he is an Australian comic of Italian descent. Al Bano was the star of the second concert – he  is described as the voice of Italy.

 Today, I will write a review and share some of my personal thoughts. This also got me thinking about show business … as a career path. They made it – not many do. This then is my added topic for this week. My book of the week is “Music Business Handbook and Career Guide [Hardcover]Ninth Edition David Baskerville (Author), Tim Baskerville (Author) (Editor’s Note: This is another in the continuing series on general category.) 

ANTOINETTE’S LIFE & TIMES*

Joe Avati: I had been inquiring about purchasing tickets for Joe Avati’s comedy show.  I was lucky to get free tickets.  He was absolutely hilarious.  He spoke of situations and experiences growing up. Being of Italian descent and his generation, I was able to identify. He makes Italians feel proud of their heritage. I especially enjoyed the “Nona Maria” segment.  He has been called the “Italian Seinfeld” … I agree.

Al Bano: As a young girl, although North American music is where my radio dial is on day-to-day, I was also in tune with Italian music. I was and am still passionate about Italian music – I know many of the popular entertainers.

My Mom had subscribed to an Italian television station and therefore had access to programs from Italy. Al Bano was one of her favorite entertainers. She often talked about Al Bano and how much my parents enjoyed his shows on television.  She referred to him as having a golden voice.  Just before she passed away, she spoke of one of his shows that she had just seen and this gave her great pleasure. Now that both of my parents have passed away, I feel the need to maintain my heritage.

Al Bano has performed at San Remo Music Festival and the Eurovision Song contest numerous times. When I heard from a friend that he was on tour and would be coming to my home town, we tried to buy tickets. Happily, there were still some left. The concert brought tears to my eyes because it reminded me of my parents. It brought me back to when I’d visit their house and the radio and television stations were always on the Italian channels. I sat there at the beginning of the show wishing my parents were there with me to see Al Bano live. In my heart, I felt they were with me in spirit.  His performance was fantastic – he truly has a beautiful voice … rich and smooth.  I enjoyed it immensely. He makes Italians feel proud of their heritage. He has been called the “The Golden Voice of Italy”. I agree.

Show business:  

Music runs in my family – two of my brothers are musicians and they write their own music. I witnessed their hard work: studying the basics and practice, practice, practice, etc.  

One of my brothers is the director of a music school.  Once a year, his school presents a recital-show.   He invited us to attend.  The students were amazing … so enthusiastic.  The show ended with one of his star students. He is so talented – I have watched his progress through the years. He performed two songs, one was an Italian duet.  He was fantastic. Hopefully, he will make it big in show business.       

THE AUTHORDavid Baskerville 

David Baskerville earned a Ph.D. in music from UCLA. Baskerville is a consultant to companies in the entertainment industry: Walt Disney Productions and Vidmar Communications. His employment history includes: (a) Staff composer-conductor for NBC-Hollywood; (b) Arranger for Nelson Riddle, Paramount Pictures, and 20th Century Fox; television producer for BBC-London; (c) Conductor at Radio City Music Hall; trombonist with the Seattle Symphony, Los Angeles Philharmonic, and NBC-Hollywood orchestra; (d) Executive Vice President of Ad-Staff, Inc.; producer of award-winning broadcast commercials; (e) Executive Editor of Tor Music Publishing Company; and (f) President of Sherwood Recording Studios, Los Angeles.

Books/Articles:

To name a few, several are:

THE BOOK: Music Business Handbook and Career Guide [Hardcover] – Ninth Edition by David Baskerville (Author), Tim Baskerville (Author)

The world has changed with computing, cable and new media, worldwide network, technology, etc. So has the music industry. Baskerville has written a book to aid new artists to understand more of today’s music business. This book includes:  (a) Digital technology; (b) Marketing and distribution channels; (c) Independent musician option; (d) Producers; (e) Satellite and internet radio; etc. This is a solid text – it has now reached its Ninth Edition. If young and coming in the “biz”, you need to be up-to-date. Checking this out will help. 

CONCLUSION

Entertainment is part of our day-to-day. We enjoy it a lot. Because we are so diverse culturally throughout the world, heritage plays a part in our enjoyment. And celebrity makes show business a sought after occupation.

Personal Comments

I say:

Joe Avati  & Al Bano

  • That stepping out for a night on the town is good. Going to a show is better.  Going to a show of a world class entertainer like Joe Avati & Al Bano is best. I loved their shows. Don’t miss a chance to see them in person.  

Italian heritage

  • That Italians are very passionate
  • That the Italian language is very musical
  • That with our easygoing Italian way of life, music is very important to Italians. They like music of every type. “Il divertimento” in Italy is listening to music, playing an instrument, singing, etc.  We have a very rich heritage.
  • That Italians are very fond of music festivals. A famous celebration is the Venice Carnival, which takes place in February. (The word, “Carnival” derives from the words carne vale – which means ‘farewell to meat’, before the start of Lent.) During the summer months many are hosted throughout the country. Italy hosts many musical events outdoors in the summer. Some of Italy’s summer most popular festivals and events are: Festival dei Due Mondi; Umbria Jazz Festival; Trasimeno Music Festival; Estate Romana; Verona Opera; Lake Como Festival: Music on LakeComo; Puccini Festival; Tuscia Opera Festival.
  • That Italy is renowned for their operas. La Scala in Milan and the Teatro dell’ Opera in Rome hold many high-quality opera and ballet performances. 

Show business

  • That it’s not an easy life. So few really succeed
  • That having talent is necessary, but in my opinion,  writing your own material is the key for real success.

The Point

It’s important to have rest and recreation – it contributes to life satisfaction. World class entertainment is very satisfying.

It’s important to maintain your heritage.  It enriches your life and adds a flavor to your day-to-day living.

If show business is your dream and it’s what you want to do, know that the chances of making it are very slim.

ANTOINETTE’S TIP SHEET*

  1. Make time for fun – enjoying yourself brings happiness
  2. Watch or listen to great performers – this will make you smile.

Heritage 

3. Read newspapers, magazines, books, etc. by authors from the old country.

4. Buy CDs of performers from back home.

5. Switch on programming (TV, radio, Internet media, etc.) in your mother tongue.

6. Attend cultural events of your community of national origin.

7. Celebrate who you are – one way I do this is going to a show of an Italian entertainer.

Show business

8. Do some research – it’s important to understand what the life is about.

9. Get opinions, from people with experience, about the quality of your talent  – it might hurt but maybe they’re being kind.

10. Establish your own personal style. If a singer, write your own songs; or if a musician, write some music; or if a comic, write your jokes

Are you not glad that I held a ticket just for you? With great performances, as part of a good audience, all that is left is to respond with an ovation and much applause. So if you please, stand up and put your two hands together. Bravo!

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 re-scheduled for early January 2013): I was at the gym awhile back and a fellow was explaining to a young woman (a newbee at weights and workout machines) that discipline was essential if you want to get fit and in shape. It got me to thinking about (self-) discipline to being the key to success whatever the pursuit. That week, I will upload a post on  discipline … as long as I stay disciplined enogh to write it! Please come by to see if I managed to do it!

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

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

-Web Tech:  richmediasound.com

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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PAGE 2

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

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

S & R* QUOTE #1: George Washington Carver

“How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving, and tolerant of the weak and strong. Because some day in life you will have been all of these.”  (Source: Wisdom Quotes) –  http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/life/index10.html)

 S & R* QUOTE #2: Albert Camus

« All men have a sweetness in their life. That is what helps them go on. It is towards that they turn when they feel too worn out. » (Source: Wisdom Quotes) – http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/life/index10.html)

S & R* QUOTE #3: Thomas F. Healey

« Don’t strew me with roses after I’m dead.

When Death claims the light of my brow,

No flowers of life will cheer me: instead

You may give me my roses now! »

 (Source: Wisdom Quotes) – http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/life/index10.html)

TWO – “IT WORDS FOR ME!*”
For today, my word/phrase(s) are: “show business”; Joe Alvati; Al Bano

Show Business

“Show business, sometimes shortened to show biz or showbiz (since ca. 1945),[1] is a vernacular term for all aspects of entertainment, especially light entertainment.[1] The word applies to all aspects of the entertainment industry from the business side (including managers, agents, producers and distributors) to the creative element (including artists, performers, writers, musicians and technicians).” (Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Show_business

Joe Avati

“Joe Avati (born 1974) is an Italian-Australian comedian who is popular among Italian and descendant of Italians from his native Australia, as well as in Canada, United Kingdom and the United States, where he has performed on several occasions.” (Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joe_Avati

Albano Carrisi

“Albano Carrisi (born 20 May 1943), better known as Al Bano, is an Italian singer, actor and winemaker.” (Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Albano_Carrisi

THREE – STUDY/STATISTICS:

“Definition: The Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation sector (sector 71) of the 1997 Economic Census includes a wide range of establishments that operate facilities or provide services to meet varied cultural, entertainment, and recreational interests of their patrons. This sector comprises (1) establishments that are involved in producing, promoting, or participating in live performances, events, or exhibits intended for public viewing; (2) establishments that preserve and exhibit objects and sites of historical, cultural, or educational interest; and (3) establishments that operate facilities or provide services that enable patrons to participate in recreational activities or pursue amusement, hobby, and leisure time interests.

Comparability with SIC data: The Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation sector (new) primarily includes establishments that were classified in SIC Division I, Services. Most establishments included in this sector were included in SIC major groups 79 and 84. Authors, composers, and writers, part of SIC major group 89, are included in this sector. Marinas, part of SIC Division E, Transportation, Communications, and Utilities, and dinner theaters, part of SIC Division G, Retail Trade, are also included in this sector. Sports instruction and recreational equipment rental, both part of SIC major group 79, are included in the Educational Services sector and the Real Estate and Rental and Leasing sector respectively.” (Source: U.S. Census Bureau) – http://www.census.gov/epcd/www/97EC71.HTM)

Al Bano

“He was born in the town of Cellino San Marco (province of Brindisi, Puglia in Southern Italy), where he still lives.

He made his debut in 1966 both as a singer, at the Festival delle Rose, and on television. He won the Disco per l’Estate, an Italian song contest, with “Pensando a te” in 1968. He recorded some major hits such as “La siepe” and “Nel sole” at that time. “Nel sole” sold 600,000 copies in Italy within three months of release, and eventually over one million copies, and was awarded a gold disc in July 1968.[1]

Al Bano still tours all over the world. He is a constant on Italian television and has a large number of fans who follow his career very closely. To date Al Bano has sold 165 million albums around the world. Albano has visited Albania a number of times. He was there for a concert in 1989 and has been enjoying great popularity there.[citation needed] (Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Albano_Carrisi)

Joe Avati

“Joe Avati (born 1974) is an Italian-Australian comedian who is popular among Italian and descendant of Italians from his native Australia, as well as in Canada, United Kingdom and the United States, where he has performed on several occasions.

Avati’s observational brand of comedy have earned him comparisons to Jerry Seinfeld, and in promotions he is referred to as “the Italian Seinfeld”. His observations are drawn from the life around his Italian family, particularly his experiences growing up. The characters and traits that Avati mentions seem to be universal in Italian families, which is why audiences familiar with this cultures are able to identify with him.

He kicked off his career by releasing a tape entitled “Livin’ la Dole-Cheque Vita” in late 1999. He also released [Live and Unpluggato] in late 2000 which was placed on the internet as a downloadable MP3. This album went on to become the number one selling comedy album in Canada for 18 months.

There is a lot of material available on CD and DVD featuring Avati including a double CD entitled “The Best of Joe Avati Live” while a popular DVD called “Joe Avati Live in Canada“.

Avati is now in the middle of shooting a feature film about the Italian life in Australia in New York and Montreal.

Currently Joe Avati is in a show called VIVA LOST WAGES touring around Australia and as of the 20th May 2009 is the co-host of an Australian TV Show called Food Investigators on SBS TV utilising both his comedic skills and his double degree in Food Science to educate the people of Australia all about food.” (Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joe_Avati)

FOUR – BONUS ARTICLES

S & R*NEWS ALERT*#1: A home-theatre upgrade brightens winter nights

“The value of home entertainment electronics skyrockets in winter. Instead of heading out into the deepfreeze for music, movies, fun and games, all we have to do is retreat to the cozy living room to be dazzled and that includes a truly immersive 3D theatre experience. Here, from LG Electronics, are two of this year’s most exciting developments for your own entertainment hub:

Smart 3D TV: Smart means Internet-enabled, and 3D means lifelike, razor-sharp images for both HD and 3D video and television programming. Combined, the value is tops and leading the pack is the 55″ Cinema 3D Smart TV. The Magic Remote makes it easy to point, click and control with intuitive hand gestures. Connect to your favourite online apps, movies, music, videos, games, and web browsing and wirelessly, you can share content from your smartphone, laptop, and tablet and view it on the big screen TV. When 3D shows are played, six pairs of battery-free, specialty glasses are supplied for family and friends.

Music Magic: iPod docking stations have become a work of art. Take a look, for example, at the new designs of LG’s iPod Docks. They deliver crisp, clear sound, and have subwoofers for richer quality. These iPod docks are compatible with Mp3 players and Android smartphones too.” More information at: www.lg.com. www.newscanada.com

S & R*NEWS ALERT*#2: Tips for throwing a successful holiday soirée

“Throwing a successful party is something many of us aspire to do when this time of year rolls around. While some may be party planners by nature, most of us may find this a daunting task. Here are a few tips to make you feel like the host(ess) with the most(est).

Three things to consider when planning the perfect holiday soirée:

Décor/theme Decide on a theme for your décor and run with it. It can be traditional red and green colours or perhaps your favourite colour let’s say purple with festive silver accents. Incorporate your theme’s colours into the lighting, holiday decorations, and even your party outfit whatever you decide on, it’s the details that really make for effective party décor.

Music Having the right mood music can really set the tone for your party. Whether its holiday music, easy listening, classic rock, hip hop or Top 40, you’ll never suffer from awkward silences with tunes playing in the background. For example, satellite radio offers access to more than 120 channels and more than 65 of them are dedicated to commercial-free music. Great sports, talk, news, entertainment and comedy are also available so you can keep guests dancing, informed and entertained, all from one device. More information is available online at www.siriusxm.ca.

Food Decide whether you want to lay out a full spread for a sit-down dinner or simply have hors d’oeuvres and finger foods for your friends to snack on, cocktail party style. Food plays a big part in throwing a successful party at any time of the year, and the way in which you choose to present it can sometimes define the party. A formal, intimate dinner, or a bigger party that allows people to mingle and not have food be the focal point the choice is yours to make when deciding how you want your party to flow.” www.newscanada.com

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

Posted by on November 26th, 2012 4 Comments

S & R* NEWS* / THANKSGIVING DAY: I like dinner, sales, offers – don’t you* – UPDATE (USA) 2012*

Vol. 3, No.32 -1, Monday, November 19th, 2012

SAVE AND READ*(S & R*) NEWS*: THANKSGIVING DAY: I like dinner, sales, offers – don’t you* – UPDATE (USA) 2012*

Dear Readers,

Greetings from Cyberspace.

As you know,  this is the start of THANKSGIVING week in America  – it’s  THANKSGIVING DAY on Thursday, Nov. 22, 2012. You know what that means, dinner conversation around the turkey platter. And this Friday, Nov.23, 2012 , it’s BLACK FRIDAY! You know what that means, waiting in line, speaking to your line mates or friends on your cell.  So , I decided to do something special. And I know exactly what you need: little tidbits of information with which you can WOW fellow diners and standees.  So … wait for it … I will unveil ANTOINETTE”S TOP 10 FACTS * – THE USA THANKSGIVING (2012)* edition. Hope you like it.

ANTOINETTE”S TOP 10 FACTS * THE USA THANKSGIVING (2012)*

Thanksgiving – the Meal

1. 114.7 million: Number of households across the nation — all potential gathering places for people to celebrate the holiday. Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Housing Vacancy Survey, Table 3 (Source: http://www.census.gov/newsroom/releases/archives/facts_for_features_special_editions/cb12-ff23.html)

2. 254 million:  The number of turkeys expected to be raised in the United States in 2012. That is up 2 percent from the number raised during 2011. Source: USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service.  (Source:  http://www.census.gov/newsroom/releases/archives/facts_for_features_special_editions/cb12-ff23.html)

3. Cranberry sauce: People like it alone or served along with the turkey.  Did you know that it was used to preserve some dried meats? It was found to be good tasting and also healthy to eat.

Thanksgiving – Open /Closed

4. About Money: Stock markets generally are closed on Thursday and only open for a 1/2 day on Friday.

Thanksgiving – the Trip

5. About Travel: Many Americans travel this weekend. Besides those going home for family festivities, others see this long weekend as a great opportunity to get away.

Black Friday

6. 53% of consumers plan to shop on Black Friday, up from 44% last year. (according to a study).

7. Some stores give : (a) Free coffee in the morning to shoppers waiting in long lineups on Black Friday; and (b) Free gift cards to bring in the early birds, for a certain amount of purchases; (c)  Sneak previews of products on sales; (d) Pre-sales so early they actually start late Thursday.

8. About shopping: (a) There are certain products NOT to buy on Black Friday – to name a few:  toys, jewellery and watches, office supplies, Christmas decorations, etc.; but, the best product to buy is anything to do with electronics.

9. About Canadians: (a) Many retailers have adopted the American Black Friday sales; (b) They are now scheduling such sales at the same time as those in the USA – the reasoning and the hope is that Canadians will shop at home instead of heading south of the border.

10. Internet Shopping: You could shop online and miss the crowds.
P.S. This is an extra as I already did my 2012 update  – see my post titled, “THANKSGIVING DAY: I like dinner, sales, offers – don’t you*” – UPDATE 2012 (found at Vol. 3, No.25, Monday, October 1st 2012).

Have a great week.

Yours truly,
Antoinette

PREVIEW (Tentatively re-scheduled for Monday, November 26th 2012): SHOWBUSINESS … Italian style. I just caught two great shows that came to my town. The first was Joe Avati, an Australian comic of Italian descent. And then in the same week, I attended a concert of Al Bano – he is described as the voice of Italy. It was wonderful. I will tell you all about it. Why not come by – you will be entertained. I will hold a ticket just for you!

PREVIEW (now tentatively re-scheduled for early January 2013): I was at the gym awhile back and a fellow was explaining to a young woman (a newbee at weights and workout machines) that discipline was essential if you want to get fit and in shape. It got me to thinking about (self-) discipline to being the key to success whatever the pursuit. That week, I will upload a post on  discipline … as long as I stay disciplined enogh to write it! Please come by to see if I managed to do it!

P.S. There is still much more to come to the Save and Read* ( S & R*) Web site. Watch for it soon

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

1. N.B. It is understood that by this sending, you agree that Save And Read* (S&R*) acquires such content and consent to Save And Read* (S&R*) publishing the same in any and all media/formats.

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.

Posted by on November 19th, 2012 3 Comments

WINTER BLUES (BLAHS): symptoms, depression, treatment, vitamins, etc, – I say,”Don’t be SAD!*”

Vol. 3, No.31, Monday, November 12th , 2012

TITLE: “WINTER BLUES (BLAHS): symptoms, depression, treatment, vitamins, etc, – I say,”Don’t be SAD!*”

INTRODUCTION

Winter is just around the corner. I often have read that November is the worst month of the year – this makes sense to me as days are shorter and nights are longer. (The next is February – it’s cold and dreary; and by the time, it arrives, we have endured much during the winter.) With very little sunshine, November is known to be gray and gloomy. A downturn in spirit is common. Therefore, today’s topic is the winter blues. I’m so glad that you came by. Get ready – here’s a dose of Antoinette’s info and suggestions – it’s good medicine with no after effects! My book of the week is “Winter Blues, Fourth Edition: Everything You Need to Know to Beat Seasonal Affective Disorder” [Paperback] by Norman E. Rosenthal MD (Author) (Editor’s Note: This is another in my continuing series on health.)

ANTOINETTE’S LIFE & TIMES*

November’s low spirit is also called the winter blahs or blues. The technical name is seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and it can cause depression, reduce your productivity, and make it harder to control your appetite. With the lack of sunlight, we tend to have a decreased level of serotonin. Now if you ask:”How can we beat the winter blues or SAD?”,  I have some thoughts.

Me, myself and I: I exercise regularly, so that’s a mood lifter for me.  In the past few years, I have also taken up skiing. Although I haven’t skied often, I had a great time when I did. 

As a mother: When my daughters were teenagers, I was pleased that they went skating or skiing especially on school outings.  They enjoyed these winter sports and afterwards, continued to do so. 

As a grandmother: I am pleased to say that my granddaughter went skating with her pre-school.  Apparently, she didn’t like it as she fell too many times.  Hopefully, she’ll learn how to skate better – she’ll probably change her mind about the sport. I hope so.

THE AUTHOR: Norman E. Rosenthal MD.

Norman E. Rosenthal MD., a therapist in private practice is known for making primary contributions to comprehending SAD and treating it with light therapy. Rosenthal is a Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Georgetown Medical School and the author of five books. For over 20 years, he has led research at the National Institute of Mental Health.

SERIES/COLLECTION

Books/Articles:

Several are:

THE BOOK: Winter Blues, Fourth Edition: Everything You Need to Know to Beat Seasonal Affective Disorder [Paperback] by Norman E. Rosenthal MD (Author)

In wintertime, with shorter days and less sunlight, millions of people feel their energy level drop and their mood decline. In this book, Dr. Rosenthal explains what causes this disorder and how we could deal with it.  There is a self-test to guide you. The book includes information on possible approaches: a) Light therapy developments; b) Antidepressant medications, c) Self-help strategies; d) Recipes especially for winter, quite healthy and easy; e)  Motivational piece on exercise; f) Strategy to organize one’s schedule for seasonal changes; g) Tips how to show support to loved ones and friends. Becoming aware and understanding is a big step towards feeling better.

CONCLUSION

Winter is coming … winter is coming! The winter blues and blahs affect thousands of people every year.  Is there anything to be done? If so what?

The first step is to become aware of the blahs and blues and then to understand more and then to beat it.  

Personal Comments

I say:

  • That living in Canada brings us short days and long nights during the winter. Staying home and feeling sorry for yourself is the worst thing you could do. Hibernating for the winter months is not a solution – let’s leave that to the bears. Instead, let’s make the most of our winters.
  • That especially now that we’re well into November, we must look at winter in a positive aspect – winter could be fun. For example, the first snowfall could be magical.
  • That it’s important to be active in the winter months. Let’s start by getting outdoors when we have a sunny day. 

The Point

Let’s beat the winter blues. It’s a matter of attitude.  It will also take some effort. 

ANTOINETTE’S TIP SHEET*

Everyone should:

1.      Have a goal for the end of the winter be it financial or fitness related – Join a gym

2.      Go outside, in the winter months, on a nice day and enjoy the sunshine –

  1. Dress warm and go for a walk 
  2. Experience the first snow storm; when it happens, feel the light snowflakes on your face
  3. Make a snowman

3. Take up a winter sport:  skiing, skating, snowboarding, ice fishing, curling, etc.

4.      Stay home and opt for something relaxing and enjoyable – try

  1. Watching your favorite movie
  2. Listening to good music or read a good book
  3. Entertaining family, friends at home
  4. Roasting marshmallows in front of a fireplace
  5. Playing board games

5. Go to the movies

6. Go on vacation, if you can do it, in the winter to a warm, sunny place as sunshine is so important to us – we need vitamin D. This will definitely bring up your spirits.

Let’s do lunch – our excuse can be getting through the (winter) blues!

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

PREVIEW (Tentatively scheduled for Monday, November 19th 2012): SHOWBUSINESS … Italian style. I just caught two great shows that came to my town. The first was Joe Avati, an Australian comic of Italian descent. And then in the same week, I attended a concert of Al Bano – he is described as the voice of Italy. It was wonderful. I will tell you all about it. Why not come by – you will be entertained. I will hold a ticket just for you!

PREVIEW (now tentatively re-scheduled for early January 2013): I was at the gym awhile back and a fellow was explaining to a young woman (a newbee at weights and workout machines) that discipline was essential if you want to get fit and in shape. It got me to thinking about (self-) discipline to being the key to success whatever the pursuit. That week, I will upload a post on  discipline … as long as I stay disciplined enogh to write it! Please come by to see if I managed to do it!

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

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

-Web Tech:  richmediasound.com

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

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

 S & R* QUOTE #1: Karen Armstrong

“Like art, religion is an imaginative and creative effort to find a meaning and value in human life.” (Source: Wisdom Quotes) – http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/life/)

S & R* QUOTE #2: 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 #3: Ralph Waldo Emerson

“Write it on your heart that every day is the best day in the year.” (Source: Wisdom Quotes) –  http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/life/)

TWO – “IT WORDS FOR ME!*”

 For today, my word/phrase(s) are: “seasonal affective disorder”;

Seasonal affective disorder

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), also known as winter depression, winter blues, summer depression, summer blues, or seasonal depression, is a mood disorder in which people who have normal mental health throughout most of the year experience depressive symptoms in the winter or summer,[1] spring or autumn year after year. In the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV), SAD is not a unique mood disorder, but is “a specifier of major depression”.[2] (Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seasonal_affective_disorder

THREE – STUDY/STATISTICS:

Although experts were initially skeptical, this condition is now recognized as a common disorder, with its prevalence in the U.S. ranging from 1.4 percent in Florida to 9.7 percent in New Hampshire.[3]

SAD was formally described and named in 1984 by Norman E. Rosenthal and colleagues at the National Institute of Mental Health.[6][7]

There are many different treatments for classic (winter-based) seasonal affective disorder, including light therapy with sunlight or bright lights, antidepressant medication, cognitive-behavioral therapy, ionized-air administration,[8] and carefully timed supplementation of the hormone melatonin.[9]

Symptoms of SAD may consist of difficulty waking up in the morning, morning sickness, tendency to oversleep and over eat, especially a craving for carbohydrates, which leads to weight gain. Other symptoms include a lack of energy, difficulty concentrating on or completing tasks, and withdrawal from friends, family, and social activities and decreased sex drive.[citation needed] All of this leads to depression, pessimistic feelings of hopelessness, and lack of pleasure which characterize a person suffering from this disorder.[citation needed] People who experience spring and summer depression show symptoms of classic depression including insomnia, anxiety, irritability, decreased appetite, weight loss, social withdrawal, decreased sex drive,[5] and suicide.

Seasonal mood variations are believed to be related to light. An argument for this view is the effectiveness of bright-light therapy.[12] SAD is measurably present at latitudes in the Arctic region, such as Northern Finland (64°00′N) where the rate of SAD is 9.5%.[13] Cloud cover may contribute to the negative effects of SAD.[14]

SAD was first systematically reported and named in the early 1980s by Norman E. Rosenthal, M.D., and his associates at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Rosenthal was initially motivated by his desire to discover the cause of his own experience of depression during the dark days of the northern US winter.

In many species, activity is diminished during the winter months in response to the reduction in available food and the difficulties of surviving in cold weather. Hibernation is an extreme example, but even species that do not hibernate often exhibit changes in behavior during the winter.

There are many different treatments for classic (winter-based) seasonal affective disorder, including light therapy, medication, ionized-air administration, cognitive-behavioral therapy and carefully timed supplementation[24] of the hormone melatonin.

Bright light therapy, or phototherapy, has been used for over 20 years to treat SAD[58] with numerous studies citing its effectiveness.[59][60] Light therapy is recommended as a first-line treatment for SAD in Canadian, American, and international clinical guidelines.[60] The mood of individuals with SAD can improve with as little as 20 minutes of bright light exposure.[61] Bright light is more effective than dim light in protecting against “mood lowering” which commonly occurs in SAD.[61][62]p2 » (Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seasonal_affective_disorder)

FOUR – BONUS ARTICLES

S & R*NEWS ALERT*#1: Parenting tips for childhood depression

“It’s natural for your child to feel sad or anxious at times, but if these emotions persistently show up, they could be indicators of depression. According to a recent RBC Children’s Mental Health poll, 60 per cent of parents said they would feel nervous or worried if their child indicated signs of a mental health issue. Here are some warning signs of depression to watch for:

The blues Does your child show little interest in activities or friends he or she used to enjoy? Monitor the situation, which may be more serious if the sadness persists for more than a month.

Changes in appetite Has your child recently experienced any weight loss or gain?

Sleep problems Does your child sleep too much and seem lethargic constantly or have trouble sleeping? This could be indicative of a larger problem.

Frequent complaining -Pay attention to complaining, particularly about health problems that seem to have no physical cause. They may have vague “aches and pains”, and miss school frequently.

Trouble getting along with others. A child or teenager who is picked on, teased, or excluded, may be depressed and need help. Pay special attention if your child is becoming socially isolated.

Problems with schoolwork. If your child’s grades are slipping, or they are neglecting homework, these may be signs that they are having trouble concentrating. Worry could be keeping them from doing their best work.

The RBC Children’s Mental Health Project provides a number of trusted resources available for parents at www.rbc.com/childrensmentalhealth. These tips were drafted with the assistance of Ceridian Canada, the company’s employee assistance provider.” www.newscanada.com 

S & R*NEWS ALERT*#2: How to help your teenager deal with stress

“Stress and pressure are normal parts of life. They can push us to achieve more and do better. But too much stress and pressure can pose serious challenges for some teenagers, especially during this time of self-discovery as they grow into adulthood.

For teenagers, success and failure in school can be as close as the next paper, test or report card. When kids fail, they can feel that they are alone and that everybody else can do something they cannot. Even though you may know this isn’t true, it’s best not to dismiss your teenager’s feelings. As a parent, you can help by acknowledging your child’s feelings and taking them seriously.

Talk about some of your own failures and what it feels like to fail or to be disappointed by someone you trust.

Remind them that most of us learn more from our mistakes and failures than from our successes.

Let them know that you care about him or her regardless of whether they succeed or failand that you respect their effort.

Fears and anxieties are normal. It’s the way an individual deals with them that makes a difference. If we focus too much on fears and anxiety, they can control our lives.

The RBC Children’s Mental Health Project provides a number of trusted resources available for parents at www.rbc.com/childrensmentalhealth. These tips were drafted with the assistance of Ceridian Canada, the company’s employee assistance provider.” www.newscanada.com

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

Posted by on November 12th, 2012 2 Comments

SAVE AND READ*(S & R*) NEWS*: Antoinette La Posta* brand at Shop Valente*

Vol. 3, No.30 -1, Monday, November 5th, 2012

SAVE AND READ*(S & R*) NEWS*: Antoinette La Posta* brand at Shop Valente*

Dear Readers,

Greetings from Cyberspace.

Wowee … Wowee Shop Valente* is finally open. It’s been a long time coming. This day is finally here. I’m excited!

It’s easy to get to Shop Valente* … look up at the button bar just under the header banner and press Shop Valente*. Once there, press the button and  you’re into the online boutique. If you scroll down then press any one of the links to Coats & Jackets, Pants, Suits and Vests & Bustiers.  There, you will find examples of my new line of Antoinette La Posta* brand of clothing. I think that you will agree that there are some lovely things.

Before closing, I invite reader communications. I work better with feedback. Thanks.

That’s all for now.

Have a great week.

Yours truly,
Antoinette

P.S. There is still much more to come to the Save and Read* ( S & R*) Web site. Watch for it soon

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

1. N.B. It is understood that by this sending, you agree that Save And Read* (S&R*) acquires such content and consent to Save And Read* (S&R*) publishing the same in any and all media/formats.

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.
===============================================================

Posted by on November 5th, 2012 3 Comments

ON REMEMBRANCE DAY, VETERAN’S DAY & ARMISTICE DAY, I do remember!* – UPDATE 2012

Vol. 3, No.30, Monday, November 5, 2012 

TITLE: “ON REMEMBRANCE DAY, VETERAN’S DAY & ARMISTICE DAY, I do remember!*” – UPDATE 2012

INTRODUCTION

Each year at this time, on the occasion of Remembrance Day (in Canada, U.K., Australia, N.Z., etc.), Veterans’ Day (in the U.S.) & Armistice Day (in Europe, etc.), I remember! Today’s topic is then war and remembrance. My book of the week remains: “Patton, Montgomery, Rommel: Masters of War” by Terry Brighton.  (Editor’s Note: This is an update on a post commemorating November 11th – Veterans Day in the U.S. and Remembrance Day in Canada, U.K., etc. (Commonwealth) first published in 2010 and last updated on November 6, 2011, (all a part of the continuing series on holidays and special dates.))

ANTOINETTE’S LIFE & TIMES*

When I hear news on the war in Iraq and Afghanistan, it brings to mind the war stories, I heard from my parents all my life.  I realize how fortunate I have been that I never experienced such horrors.  I repeatedly heard stories of my uncle serving in World War II.  My grandmother was overjoyed when my uncle returned home after the war, but not everybody was as lucky. 

In the Afghanistan war, there have been 158+ soldiers who died; in addition, there were further fatalities: 4+ Canadian civilians including one+ diplomat, one+ journalist and two+aid workers. There have been 2789 coalition deaths and the war is still on going.  At this point, I wish to make the point that too many brave soldiers have lost their lives.

UPDATE 2012

Prime Minister Stephen Harper has stated that Canadian soldiers will be pulled out after 2014.  Canada has done their part.  It’s time for our soldiers to come back home.

The United Stated has gradually been withdrawing their troops and President Obama has assured Americans that he will pull all his combat soldiers by the end of 2014. Many soldiers have died to make a difference.  A number of soldiers, who come back home, have serious issues.  Their lives have been changed forever.  These soldiers should take advantage of the programs to help rehabilitate themselves.  Not only do they have to integrate back into the work force, but the war has psychologically affected them.

THE AUTHOR: Terry Brighton
Brighton grew up in the U.K. during the sixties. He was anti-war. He studied theology and became an Anglican priest. He left the Church and became a curator in the 17th/21st Lancers Regimental Museum.  Brighton evolved into a historian. He was quoted as saying: “I soon discovered that the truth about war was not reaching the history books.”

SERIES/COLLECTION
Books
His works include:
* “Hell Riders”;
* “Masters of Battle”;
* “Patton, Montgomery, Rommel: Masters of War” ; etc.

THE BOOK: “Patton, Montgomery, Rommel: Masters of War” by Terry Brighton
World War II was a VERY big war. It was a worldwide event involving many countries, impacting upon the global population, causing millions of fatalities. In this book, the war was recounted through the individual careers of three remarkable combatant generals: George S. Patton of the United States, Bernard (Monty) Montgomery of the U.K. and Erwin Rommel of Germany. This is quite the war story!

CONCLUSION
Generals are leaders. Their knowledge, skill and achievements are noteworthy. However, the officer corps and under them, the rank and file, are equally heroes. They are all the best of us.

Personal Comments

I consider myself lucky to be able to live in a great country where we have freedom.  Like other baby boomers, born following W.W. II, I owe an immense gratitude to our soldiers, who fought in past wars, (e.g., W.W. I, W.W. II, Korea, etc.), for our country or our allies. These finest of the finest fought bravely out of a sense of duty, in service of country and countrymen and for freedom. In harm’s way, much too many were either seriously injured or killed.

I remember these heroes from wars past, I thank them, acknowledging their character, courage, ideals and great sacrifice, I honor them.

And for those fighting today, I also remember them, I thank them, acknowledging their character, courage, ideals and great sacrifice, I honor all of them.

Last, watching a TV piece about soldiers who fought in Iraq, broadcast tonight on “60 Minutes”, I was struck how so young these veterans are. It made me think of the immense impact, their service would have upon them and their families. 

The Point

The primary point is that we should never forget the bravery and the sacrifices of the soldiers who served in the armed services of our country and that of our allies, especially those who died in our service.  At the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, no matter how busy we are, we must stop, give respect and reflect. 

I next want to make the point that this time of remembrance, while called a day…. is now of a duration generally of a week or more. As a result, we now have more opportunity to show how much we care.   There are many activities, such as indoor ceremonies; flag raising ceremony. The libraries also have activities you may want to attend.  This year in the lead-up to November 11th, I encourage you to participate in at least one local activity to commemorate the veterans.

ANTOINETTE’S TIP SHEET*
November 11th is the day to take pause and do it.  It is really quite simple and easy. Everyone should:
1. Buy a poppy and wear it;
2. Check the department of Veterans Affairs or historical groups for ceremonies;
3. Stop everything you are doing on 11/11 at 11:00 a.m.;
4. Stand up and be silent for 2 minutes;
5. Say a prayer for the fallen, our veterans from past wars and also our current servicemen and women;
6. Never forget what they did in the past and what they are doing at present;
7. Make a donation in care of your local legion or veterans group, to benefit these combatants and/or their families;
8. Thank a veteran you know personally;

This is really important – it’s the right thing to take the time to honor our veterans. Please do not miss out. I am sure that you will not let your country men and women down!

And that’s my thought of the week on books, what’s yours?*
Take it out for a spin and tell me if you agree.
ALP

PREVIEW (Tentatively scheduled for Monday, November 12th  2012): Winter is coming … winter is coming!~ We’re now into November and that means the onslaught of the winter blahs. It can be explained in part by lack of sunlight. With many, there is a downturn in spirit. The first step in beating the blahs is to be aware of it and then to understand it and then consciously address it. Don’t get down –  instead be here to get a dose of Antoinette’s info and suggestions – it’s good medicine with no after effects!

PREVIEW (Tentatively scheduled for Monday November … 2012): SHOWBUSINESS … Italian style. I just caught two great shows that came to my town. The first was Joe Avati, an Australian comic of Italian descent. And then in the same week, I attended a concert of Al Bano – he is described as the voice of Italy. It was wonderful. I will tell you all about it. Why not come by – you will be entertained. I will hold a ticket just for you!

PREVIEW (now tentatively re-scheduled for early January 2013): I was at the gym awhile back and a fellow was explaining to a young woman (a newbee at weights and workout machines) that discipline was essential if you want to get fit and in shape. It got me to thinking about (self-) discipline to being the key to success whatever the pursuit. That week, I will upload a post on  discipline … as long as I stay disciplined enogh to write it! Please come by to see if I managed to do it!

“Books are life; and they make life better!*”
P.S. Wowee …Wowee Shop Valente is finally open; and my new line of Antoinette La Posta* brand of clothing is now available. There is still much more to come to the Save and Read* Web site. Watch for it!

 P.P.S. #1 I have a TWITTER page. Consider becoming a follower? Visit www.twitter.com –   saveandread
P.P.S. #2 I also have a FACEBOOK page. Consider becoming a friend? Visit: www.facebook.com – Alp Save Andread – please check it out.
P.P.S. #3 I am on Linkedin. Consider becoming a connection? Visit  www.linkedin.com – Antoinette La Posta
*TM/© 2010, 2011,2012 Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved.
===============================================================

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

S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTE #1: God Bless America
“In early April 1968, at the age of 25, future U.S. Senator Max Cleland did a tour of duty in Vietnam. Shortly after jumping off a helicopter near Khe Sanh one day, a grenade exploded at his feet, blowing off his right forearm and both legs … “In an Irish pub in Washington a few years back, Cleland and his friends reminisced about the eight months he spent in a dim recuperation ward for the severely injured at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in the nation’s capital. It was called the ’snake pit.’ “As the lonely young combat veterans slowly healed, one of them who was ambulatory was sent out on a quiet evening to recruit a stripper from Washington’s risque district and sneak her back into the quiet and mostly unfuckingvised ward. “She arrived willing but flummoxed to find there was no music available. No radio. No record player. Can’t doff my clothes without music, she explained. The men suggested they sing. She said OK. But she was even younger, and her songs were not the ones they remembered from a few years back. Finally, they came up with one everybody knew, including the stripper. She took off her duds to ‘God Bless America.’” (Source: www.anecdotage.com) – http://www.anecdotage.com/index.php?aid=550

S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTE #2: Military Hero?
“Despite his recognition as a military hero, the legendary U.S. Marine Brigadier General Smedley Darlington Butler was ambivalent about his career accomplishments. “I helped to make Honduras right for the American fruit companies in 1903,” he once told the Public Broadcasting Service. “I helped to make Mexico – and especially Tampico – safe for American oil interests in 1914. I helped make Haiti and Cuba a decent place for the National City Bank boys to collect revenues in. I brought life to the Dominican Republic for American sugar in 1916. In China, in 1937, I helped see to it that Standard Oil went its way unmolested. I was rewarded with honors, medals, and promotions. Looking back on it, I feel I might have given Al Capone a few hints. The best he could do was to operate his racket in three city districts. We Marines operated on three continents…”
(Source: www.anecdotage.com) – http://www.anecdotage.com/index.php?aid=7805

S & R* CHOICE ANECDOTE #3: John Kerry: Swift Boat Veteran
“While patrolling the Mekong Delta during the Vietnam war, John Kerry and his crewmates were ambushed by a Vietcong guerrilla firing rockets from the riverbank. Kerry made an instantaneous decision to turn his boat into enemy fire and beach it. He then leapt ashore, chased the man down, and killed him. “I didn’t want to let him get away,” he later recalled. “I didn’t want him to run away and turn around with an active B-40 [rocket-propelled grenade launcher] and take us out. There but for the grace of God… The guy could have pulled the trigger and I wouldn’t be here today.” Navy men were not supposed to leave their ships during combat, and his commanding officer later quipped that he was torn between recommending Kerry for the Silver Star and having him court-martialed for insubordination. Kerry got the Silver Star.” (Source: www.anecdotage.com) –  http://www.anecdotage.com/index.php?aid=19558

S & R* QUOTE #1: Steve Jobs
“You can’t connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards. So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future. You have to trust in something — your gut, destiny, life, karma, whatever. This approach has never let me down, and it has made all the difference in my life.”(Source:  Wisdom Quotes) –  http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/life/

S & R* QUOTE #2: Annie Dillar
“Our life is a faint tracing on the surface of mystery, like the idle, curved tunnels of leaf miners on the surface of a leaf. We must somehow take a wider view, look at the whole landscape, really see it, and describe what’s going on here. Then we can at least wail the right question into the swaddling band of darkness, or, if it comes to that, choir the proper praise.”(Source:  Wisdom Quotes) – http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/life/

S & R* QUOTE #3: Henri-Frederic Amiel
“Our duty is to be useful, not according to our desires but according to our powers.”
(Source:  Wisdom Quotes) – http://www.wisdomquotes.com/topics/life/
*TM/© 2010, 2011, 2012 Practitioners’ Press Inc. – All Rights Reserved.
—————————————————————–——————————————
ANNEX II
SCHEDULE I

“IT WORDS FOR ME!*”
“For today, my word/phrase(s) are: ‘veteran”; “war”; “remembrance”; “soldier” and “general”.

Veteran
“A veteran (from Latin vetus, meaning “old”)[1] is a person who has had long service or experience in a particular occupation or field; ” A veteran of …” .[2] This page refers to military veterans, i.e., a person who has served or is serving in the armed forces, and has direct exposure to acts of military conflict, commonly known as war veterans (although not all military conflicts, or areas in which armed combat takes place, are necessarily referred to as “wars”).” (Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Veteran

War
“It is a phenomenon of organized violent conflict,[1][2] typified by extreme aggression, societal disruption and adaptation, and high mortality.[1] The objective of warfare differs in accord with a group’s role in a conflict: The goals of offensive warfare are typically the submission, assimilation or destruction of another group, while the goals of defensive warfare are simply the repulsion of the offensive force and, often, survival itself. Relative to each other, combatants in warfare are called enemies. The terms military, militant, and militarism each refer to fundamental aspects of war, i.e. the organized group, the combative individual, and the supportive ethos (respectively).” (Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/War

Remembrance
“It is the act of remembering, the ability to remember or a memorial.”(Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Remembrance

Soldier
“A soldier is a member of the land component of national armed forces; whereas a soldier hired for service in a foreign army would be termed a mercenary.[1] In most languages, “soldier” includes commissioned and non-commissioned officers in national land forces.”
(Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soldier

General
“A general officer is an officer of high military rank, usually in the army, and in some nations, the air force.[1] The term is widely used by many nations of the world, and when a country uses a different term, there is an equivalent title given.”(Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/General_officer

SCHEDULE II

STUDY/STATISTICS:
“The number of Canadian Forces’ fatalities resulting from Canadian military activities in Afghanistan is the largest for any single Canadian military mission since the Korean War between 1950 and 1953. A total of 158 Canadian Forces personnel have been killed in the war since 2002.[1]”(Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canadian_Forces_casualties_in_Afghanistan)

WW I casualties
“The total number of casualties in World War I, both military and civilian, were about 37 million: 16 million deaths and 21 million wounded. The total number of deaths includes 9.7 million military personnel and about 6.8 million civilians. The Entente Powers (also known as the Allies) lost about 5.7 million soldiers while the Central Powers lost about 4 million.”(Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_War_I_casualties

WW II casualties
“World War II casualty statistics vary greatly. Estimates of total dead range from 50 million to over 70 million.[1] The sources cited on this page document an estimated death toll in World War II of 62 to 78 million, making it the deadliest war ever. When scholarly sources differ on the number of deaths in a country, a range of war losses is given, in order to inform readers that the death toll is disputed. Civilians killed totaled from 40 to 52 million, including 13 to 20 million from war-related disease and famine. Total military dead: from 22 to 25 million, including deaths in captivity of about 5 million prisoners of war.”(Source: Wikipedia the free encyclopedia) – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_War_II_casualties

SCHEDULE III

“Veterans Day originated as “Armistice Day” on Nov. 11, 1919, the first anniversary of the end of World War I. Congress passed a resolution in 1926 for an annual observance, and Nov. 11 became a national holiday beginning in 1938. President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed legislation in 1954 to change the name to Veterans Day as a way to honor those who served in all American wars. The day honors living military veterans with parades and speeches across the nation. A national ceremony takes place at the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.”
http://www.census.gov/newsroom/releases/archives/facts_for_features_special_editions/cb10-ff21.html)

S & R* NEWS ALERT* #1  Remembering to say thanks

“When you think of Canada’s multicultural society and all the freedoms and opportunities that we experience on a daily basis, devoting a few minutes of silence on Remembrance Day to think of our troops is an important and meaningful gesture. Our soldiers and veterans sacrificed their time, personal comforts, and in many cases their lives so we could enjoy ours. Here are some other ways that you can show gratitude:

Wear a poppy. From the last Friday in October to November 11, pin a poppy on the left lapel of your garment or as close to the heart as possible. This will publicly remind you of our soldiers’ sacrifices and will encourage others to do the same.

Write to soldiers. Send a letter or card to express your appreciation. Mailing addresses are listed on the Department of National Defence website. You can also post a message to troops on the site’s message board.

Donate in honour of a soldier. Just as the Canadian Forces aim to bring peace and security to countries in need, consider doing your part to help those around the world who are suffering. Organizations like Christian Children’s Fund of Canada offer a gift catalogue where you can purchase items such as fruit trees or insecticide treated bed nets in honour of one of Canada’s heroes. You can also personalize a card and mail your thanks to a Canadian Forces member.” www.newscanada.com

S & R* NEWS ALERT* #2: Lessons kids can learn from Canadian troops By Melissa Yue
“A Remembrance Day school assembly is intended for teachers and students to pause and reflect on the many lives that were sacrificed in battles that continue to be fought today. But although adults are able to stand still in silence and focus on the fallen, children sometimes have difficulty grasping the significance of the moment. In addition to being a good example and honouring our troops by wearing a poppy, parents can do their part to teach children three lessons we can learn from soldiers: Take a stance. Whether serving overseas as peacekeepers or battling enemies on the front lines, our troops are taking a stand on behalf of Canada and following through on their goals. And though their stance may cause controversy, it is a good reminder to children that they may also have to make difficult decisions in their futures, but should always stand up for their beliefs despite how unpopular that may be. Be willing to sacrifice. Soldiers give up the comforts of a safe home, loved ones, and material possessions in order to serve their country for several months or years. It is no easy task to leave material comforts behind, but what troops miss the most are their relationships with loved ones. Children can learn to detach themselves from things and instead focus on sharing what they have with others. One way to do this is by giving to a charity like Christian Children’s Fund of Canada, which helps children living in poverty overseas. Through the charity’s gift catalogue, your child can pick a meaningful gift like a clean water well or school supplies to help someone in need. Serve others. Our troops live a life of service as they protect each other, their country, and citizens in other countries. Considering other people’s needs above your own may not come naturally to both children and adults, but practicing that mindset will result in a better world. Make the most of November 11 by providing life lessons to your child as demonstrated by our troops and all the veterans who have gone before them. Thanks to their example, your child will be reminded of what it means to take a stand, be sacrificial, and live life in service to others.” www.newscanada.com
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Posted by on November 5th, 2012 2 Comments