Newtown, Connecticut

God bless the victims, families, and the community of Newtown, Connecticut.  You are all in our thoughts and prayers.  

Most Powerful People in the World 2012

Last week Forbes Magazine released its annual list of the world’s most powerful people.  Whether or not the people on the list care one way or another about the list is irrelevant to the fact that the subscribers to the magazine are fascinated with the results. 

Each year they analyze who is up, who is down, who is new, and who is no longer worthy of the list.  Ironically we have a tendency to take the list as fact.  The list is put together by highly informed and educated individuals registering their opinions.  There is not a mathematical formula or any other tool used to measure personal power and influence.  It is based on the educated opinion of the lists contributors. 

There was little movement in the top ten this year.  The President of the United States is still #1.  President Obama is followed by the Chancellor of Germany, Angela Merkel.  Below are the top ten.

1.       Barrack Obama, President of the United States

2.       Angela Merkel, Chancellor of Germany

3.       Vladimir Putin, President of Russia

4.       Bill Gates, Co-Chair of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation

5.       Pope Benedict XVI, Pope Roman Catholic Church

6.       Ben Bernanke,  Chairman of the U.S. Federal Reserve

7.       Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz al Saud, King of Saudi Arabia

8.       Mario Draghi, President of the European Central Bank

9.       Xi Jinping, General Secretary Communist Party, China

10.   David Cameron, Prime Minister, United Kingdom

The complete list can be found at:  http://www.forbes.com/powerful-people/list/

What are your impressions of the list?  What criteria would you use to judge people’s power in the world?  Given your criteria, who should be included on your list and why?  

Hurricane Sandy

It has been five weeks from Hurricane Sandy and its devastation to the East Coast of the United States.  Places in New York and New Jersey were decimated as a result of the storm and its aftermath.

The cost of the storm’s devastation is still undetermined.  These costs include rescue efforts, evacuation, structural damage and property restoration.  Below is a link which shows before and after pictures of the New Jersey Coast.

http://www.abc.net.au/news/specials/hurricane-sandy-before-after-photos/     

 

While tragedy is always horrible to read about and witness, it is also within these times we are able to witness to strength of the human spirit and the incredible lengths people are willing to go to help their neighbors. 

One such story comes from New Jersey.  Within days of the storm’s devastation, New Jersey Strong was organized as a non-profit organization.  Its sole purpose is to aid the families victimized along the Jersey coast who were victimized by Sandy.

The organization has focused its efforts on clean up.  They are gathering and deploying numerous volunteers to homes, parks, and other locations to clean up the debris and attempt to restore property to the condition it was before the storm.  While they can use money, their primary request from the public that want to be involved is manpower.  They have faced some challenges, but with concentrated focus and relentless effort, they are providing hope to many people who have lost their homes, cars, photos, and sense of security.

The focus, passion, and commitment they have shown to their community are inspiring.  This is a grassroots effort to reclaim the New Jersey shoreline, which has been an important place in their lives. 

Do you know anyone who was affected by Hurricane Sandy?  What obstacles did they face and how did they overcome those obstacles?  What do you think about the efforts of New Jersey Strong?

Jimmy V Week

“Don’t give up. Don’t ever give up.” 

                                Jimmy Valvano, 1993 – announcing the Jimmy V Foundation

December 1-7 is Jimmy V week on ESPN.  You may not know who Jimmy Valvano was, but if you have had the misfortune of knowing someone afflicted with cancer, the odds are he and his life’s mission impacted your life. 

Jimmy Valvano was a successful basketball coach, commentator, and author.  He was a person of strong conviction and personal drive.  At an early age he pulled out white index cards and began to write down his personal goals for life.  He wanted to play high school and college basketball, he wanted to become an assistant coach, go on to become a head coach, cut down the nets in Madison Square Garden and win a National Championship.  At age 36, he was able to pull out those cards and cross off every item on the list.  Throughout his life he developed a personal philosophy which allowed an ordinary man to accomplish the extraordinary.  He was commented, “There are 86,400 seconds in a day.  It is up to you to decide what to do with them.”  Jimmy V chose to cherish and make the most of each one. 

After accomplishing his goals on the basketball court, he explored new directions from writing to commentating.  He was not interested in limiting himself to a single profession.  He embraced diversity in his life and his interests.

In 1993, Jimmy Valvano was given an obstacle that would prove to be his most difficult.  He was diagnosed with cancer.  The cancer proved to be too much for him to personally overcome, but through his vision and passion he has inspired and continues to inspire funding for education and research to cure cancer.  At the time of his diagnosis, cancer was an underfunded and devastating disease.  His charismatic and infectious attitude towards life and easy appeal to people made him an ideal person to raise the awareness of cancer and its impacts on our world and to raise arms to find a way to cure cancer.  While no cure has been found, through continued research many forms of treatment have been developed.  The Jimmy V Foundation has risen over $100 million in the past 18 years to fund cancer awareness and research. 

Jimmy V is an inspiring person.  His attitude towards life, even in the face of overwhelming obstacles is something to admire.   

Below is a video clip from the 1993 ESPY awards when he received the Arthur Ashe award for Courage.  During his speech he announces the Jimmy V Foundation.

Below are highlights from the 1983 National Championship.  It was one of the most exciting endings the tournament has ever seen.

What do you think of Jimmy Valvano, his life and his mission?  Do you have or are you developing a personal philosophy for how you live your life?  If so, would you mind sharing?  Who inspires you to be a better person?  What qualities do they possess you admire?

The End of Twinkies

After 82 years of operations, the Hostess Brands are ceasing operations and liquidating the company as of Friday, November 16^th.  This means no more Twinkies, Ho-Ho’s, Ding Dongs, or Wonder Bread.   The company has requested permission to liquidate its assets and discontinue operations.  This will potentially result in the loss of some 18,500 jobs.

The company has issued a statement on its website explaining why they feel these steps are necessary.  Below is a link:

http://www.hostessbrands.com/Closing.aspx

After filing for bankruptcy for the second time in a decade, the company has approached its workers requesting an 8% pay cut.  The company’s cost structure, which includes salary and pension expenses, is not allowing the company to maintain profitability.  Even though it is the employees which would have to endure the pay cut, it is the unions that negotiate with the company’s management.

Although the company was able to reach an agreement with one of the largest unions, the Teamsters Union, they were unable to reach the same agreement with the Bakery, Confectionary, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers International Union.  The union was unwilling to accept the pay cut blaming managerial issues for the company’s inability to compete.  As a result of no agreement being reached, the management of Hostess has decided to liquidate the company in order to get the most value from its assets.

The company will be closing of 33 bakeries, 565 distribution centers, approximately 5500 delivery routes and 570 bakery outlet stores across the United States.  While 18,500 Hostess employees are expected to lose their jobs, the impact on the other businesses and vendors which work with Hostess will be significant.

What do you know about labor unions?  Under what conditions do you think it is appropriate for management to ask employees to take a pay cut?  Under what conditions do you think it is appropriate for the unions to reject pay cuts?  What is your favorite Hostess snack and why?  

Election 2012

The National Election was held yesterday.  After 18 months of primaries, nomination conventions, debates, print and television ads, it is finally over.  It is time for people to throw away their lawn signs, have billboards removed, and get back to regular commercials trying to sell us products instead of telling us about candidates or issues.

In many ways the 2012 election was very much like every other election.  On a national level, it was two candidates trying to convince the voters why their ideas are better or maybe why the other candidate’s ideas won’t work.  While every election has had its fair share of negative campaigning, 2012 did prove to be one of the more vicious elections.  Some believe it was this viciousness and lack of enthusiasm with either candidate which caused voter turnout to dip lower than 2008 and 2004.  Voter turnout nationally was around 57.5%.

What made 2012 somewhat different was the amount of money spent.  It is estimated between presidential and congressional campaigns close to $5.8 billion was spent.  This number astounds me.  The primary parties responsible for the increase in spending were the numerous Super-PACs (Political Action Committee).   The PACs won a U.S. Supreme Court case (Citizens United vs. Federal Election Committee) which in essence states the spending of money on political campaigns is the equivalent of free speech and should not be regulated or suppressed.  As a result, while direct spending by candidates and political parties was down in 2012, the Super-PAC spending made this the most expensive election in the country’s history.

What do you think of our political process and American politics?  Do you like the ways elections are conducted?  Is there anything you think should be changed about the process?  What is your reaction to the amount of money spent?  Do you think it is money well spent or was it excessive?   

National Bully Prevention Month

Bullying has gained a tremendous amount of attention.  We have heard, seen, or read of horrific acts of bullying, whether through face to face contact, email and Facebook, or spreading rumors.  These despicable acts have at times resulted in senseless acts of violence committed against oneself or one’s neighbor.

October has been given the honor of being National Bullying Prevention Month.  This is the seventh year in a row PACER has promoted bullying prevention education and awareness.  This year, prominent organizations, including Facebook and Yahoo!, as well as distinguished celebrities, such as Annie Thurman from the Hunger Games and Mikey Reid from Victorious, have joined the cause to raise awareness and encourage prevention.

Each day more than 160,000 students stay home from school due to the fear of being bullied.  No one should have to go to school scared.  While we may seem to live in sheltered environment, we would be remiss to assume acts of bullying could not exist at our school or within the city.

Below are links to websites to provide you with additional bullying prevention information and what you can do in our school and community to put an end to bullying.  The sites define what is bullying, explains why kids bully, and provide resources to help if you are bullied or witness bullying.
 
TeensAgainstBullying.org
StopBullyingNow.hrsa.gov

In addition to the Children of Peace, what else can we do in our school to address and prevent bullying?  How would you handle a situation where you saw someone being bullied?  What are some steps we can take to encourage acceptance and tolerance at school and in our community?

Extreme Sports

Felix successfully landed this jump on October 14, 2012

Since the dawn of time, man has been pushing the envelope of what is humanly possible. Through the advancements of technology and the imagination of men and women, every day people accomplish tasks prior generations would never had imagined.

                                                                                                                         

In the past two centuries we have flown through the air, traveled under the sea, and landed on the moon.  As people and as nations we have challenged the laws of physics over and over again.  Sometimes we have done this in order to advance society, other times we have done it simply because nobody thought we could.  As the bar of human accomplishments continues to rise, people are more and more fascinated by these incredible physical acts. 

The most recent extreme event is the jump of Felix Baumgartner.  Felix is an extreme athlete from Australia.  He has spent a majority of his life skydiving and BASE jumping from recognizable landmarks around the globe.  He set the world BASE jumping record when he jumped from the hand of Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro.  He was the first man to skydive across the English Channel.  His most recent event is now scheduled October 14, when he will attempt to skydive from an all time record of 120,000 feet.

The Red Bull Stratos project is unlike any project ever before.  Felix will take a helium balloon 23 miles into the atmosphere.  Once he reaches the height 120,000 feet, he will open the door, step to the edge and jump.  He is expected to be the first man to break the sound barrier reaching speeds around 620 mph.  Attached is a CGI video.

What are your impressions as you watched the video?  Would you ever be willing to perform extreme sports (with the proper training and conditioning, of course)?  Why or why not? Why do you think mankind is fascinated with taking things to the extreme?  

2012 Presidential Debate

This Wednesday is the first of three presidential debates before the November election.  If you read the news, both candidates are claiming the debate is critical for their election and at the same time trying to downplay expectations. 

Downplaying expectations seems to be a critical piece to debate success.  Trying to get the general population to not expect much from you in order to, ”wow” them at the debate has proven to be an effective strategy.  It seems very backwards to me, but that is probably one of many reasons why I am not running for president. 

The debate will be televised on all major networks and seen by millions of voters and future voters.  While many people know who they are going to vote for, many do not.  The debate is a tool that puts the candidates side by side in order for people to compare. 

The first televised debate took place in 1960, but it was not until 1976 that the debates have become a regular and critical part of the election.  The effects of the 1960 debate and the obscure campaign laws deterred candidates and networks from sponsoring presidential debates.

 In 1960 a young and energetic candidate from Massachusetts stole the show and won the election in the first ever televise debate.  John F. Kennedy looked poised and comfortable when he challenged the favored Richard Nixon to a debate.  It was not only the appearance of Kennedy, but Nixon displaying nerves and sweating which made many people question his leadership ability.  You can understand why all future frontrunners refused to debate until it was no longer an option in 1976. 

The campaign law which required equal television time to be given to all candidates found a loophole which made debates a possibility in 1976.  The candidates were up for the challenge, but also had little room to refuse.  While the debate in 1976 did not swing the voters in the same way as 1960, it did provide Jimmy Carter the opportunity to display his presidential qualities versus incumbent Gerald Ford.

Sitting presidents and incumbents have used the debates to address the public’s perception and neutralize criticisms.  Future President Ronald Reagan used the debate in 1980 to ask the American people if they were better off today than they were four years prior.  This question helped to convince many voters to move away from President Carter.  He used the debates in 1984 to show his humorous side and make a joke out of his age, which was polling as a concern among voters. 

While the debates have proven effective, they have also gone to the point of absurdity.  Polls following the debate measure likability, personality, persuasiveness and other characteristics.  They have fact checkers and analysis which measure everything including the number of nouns and verbs used by a candidate.  For an example of what they measure you can check out the site concerning the 2008 debate.

Lexical Analysis :  http://mkweb.bcgsc.ca/debates/

Why do you think the televised debates have become so important in American presidential politics?  Do you think the way a candidate looks should be a reason to vote for or against somebody?  What do you think is the best way for voters who are undecided to choose a candidate?  The debates? Newspapers or news television? Or some other way?

Teacher's Day

September 28 is a Confucian Holiday celebrating the birth of Confucius. It is also celebrated as Teachers' Day. While many confuse Confucius ism with a religion, it is actually more of a philosophy. Confucius was not a priest or a deity, he was a teacher.

Confucius was born around 551 BC in the small state of Lu. He was born into an aristocratic family, although there is debate as to whether he had any money or not. During his life he served many influential people and his teachings became not only fundamental to Confucian philosophy, but to the general Chinese philosophy.

The 6th century BC China was a time of political and social disintegration. Battling officials trying to gain control led to a period of great moral decline, when integrity and principles meant little to ruling classes. Confucius was disgusted by this development. At the time, he was a widely unknown teacher. He attempted to revive society by re-introducing the great moral teachings of the past.

At the cornerstone of his teachings was the belief that ethical considerations should be the guiding principle of government. He did not accept the idea of a strict legal system. He believed the primary task of a ruler was to achieve the welfare and happiness of the people. The ruler should be a role model by monitoring his personal behavior. His strong ethical behaviors would influence the people's behaviors. Customs and voluntary adherence would be the best way to achieve and maintain an orderly society.

Confucius never wrote many of the quotations we see today. After his death, many of his disciples gathered and compiled his teachings. Here are a few quotations:

"Before you embark on a journey of revenge, dig two graves."

"Forget injuries, never forget kindness."

"He who will not economize will have to agonize."

"I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand."

"Respect yourself and others will respect you."

Throughout history, we have seen many teachers influence the world. Jesus, Martin Luther King, Jr., Gandhi, Mother Teresa, Buddha, and Confucius have significantly changed the world and redefined the way many of us view right from wrong.

Who are the teachers in your life that have influenced you the most? What qualities do they have that make them an effective and influential teacher? If possible, please provide a couple of your favorite sayings learned from your teachers.

Constitution Day

September 17^th is Constitution Day in the United States.  It commemorates the day in which the United States Constitution was signed in 1787.  Remarkably, the US Constitution is the longest active constitution in the world.  While it has been subject to amendments over time, the base intention and structure of the document remains intact much the same way it was in 1787.

The government created by the Constitution was not our first government after the Revolutionary War.  Our first government was created through the Articles of Confederation.  While they were created by incorporating the ideas which were instrumental in the call for independence, they were ineffective at a national and global level. 

State representative met in Philadelphia, PA in May of 1787 to discuss revising the Articles.  Through considerable debate and negotiation, the delegates decided to start over.  What they came up with has guided our government and our country for more than 200 years.

The Constitution begins with the Preamble.  This single sentence sums up the ideas the people had about the government and its role in society.  It reads:

  We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.

After reading the Preamble, summarize the sentence in your own words.  Based on its content, what concerns did the framers of the Constitution have about the role of government?  Why do you think it has continued to be relevant after 200 years?

September 11

Tuesday of next week marks the eleventh anniversary of the attacks on the United States in New York and Washington, D.C.  While truly tragic, it was also a day which demonstrated the incredible will and strength of the human spirit.  There were as many stories of heroism as there was destruction.  We witnessed countless acts of bravery and selflessness.  And these are only the stories we know.  Many of the incredible stories forever died with the victims.

The following is a brief timeline of the day’s events.

At 8:45 am, the first plane crashed into the North Tower of the World Trade Center.  The crash instantly killed hundreds of innocent people and trapped hundreds more above the 110^th floor.  While emergency crews sprang into action, a mere 18 minutes later, a second plane crashed into the South Tower.  It was evident to all, this was not a coincidence, the United States was under attack. 

At 9:45 am, a third plane crashed into the Pentagon.  The jet fuel caused a devastating fire causing a small structural collapse. 

15 minutes after the Pentagon crash, the South Tower collapsed.  It was less than one hour from the time the plane crashed into the building to when it fell to the ground.

 At 10:10, the country became aware of a fourth plane wreck.  United Flight 93 had left the Newark airport late.  40 minutes after departure, terrorists took control of the plane.  The passengers on the plane, aware of the events of New York and Washington, decided to take action.  They overtook the terrorist and in the process crashed the plane into a Pennsylvanian field.  All aboard were killed instantly.

At 10:30, the inevitable occurred.  The North Tower of the World Trade Center collapsed.  While the nation watched in awe, the brave firefighters, police officers and other city officials continued to respond to their call to duty.  Due to the devastation created when the Twin Towers collapsed, four other building would fall to the ground during the day. 

As the day concluded we began to hear the devastating carnage from the day.  In New York City approximately 3,000 people were killed, including 343 firefighter and paramedics, 23 police officers and 37 Port Authority officers.  In Washington, DC, 125 military personnel and civilians were killed at the Pentagon in addition to the 64 people on board the flight.  An additional 45 people were killed in the Pennsylvanian field from Flight 93.

How do you think life in America has changed since September 11^th?  Besides what you just read, what else do you know about the day?  Do you think the day should be remember as a tragedy or a triumph? Why?

2012 London Olympics

The age old world tradition of athletic competition wrapped up in London a couple of weeks ago.  It was 17 days filled with inspiring stories of athletes from all over the globe pursuing their dreams and testing their skills in front of the planet.

The modern Olympics games were held in 1896 in Athens, Greece.  At that time it was the largest sporting event to date.  14 nations sent 241 athletes to participate which did not include women. 

The 2012 London Games had 193 nations and 11 territories participating, sending 10,860 athletes.  This year each nation participating sent at least one woman to compete.  In the United States, women won 52% of our gold medals.  The growth of the games as well as its ethnic and gender diversity is astonishing. 

While I can appreciate the competition and enjoy watching a spirited contest, it is the stories of the obstacles facing the athletes and their character which impresses me most.  My list of the most notable stories includes:

Michael Phelps:  The four additional gold medals with the two silver makes him the most decorated Olympian of all time with 18 gold, 2 silver, and 2 bronze medals.

Missy Franklin:  The high school swimmer from Colorado who refused to move to stay at her school and continue to work with her coach.  She refused to sign with any sponsors in order to remain eligible to swim for her high school.

Misty May-Treanor & Kerri Walsh Jennings – 3 time Olympic champions at the age of 35 and 34, considered the greatest beach volleyball team of all time.  In the last three Olympics they lost 1 set.

Kayla Harrison:  First American to win gold in Judo.

Oscar Pistorius:  South African sprinter who is also the first double amputee to compete in the Olympics.

There are numerous other stories of athletes from all over the world who overcame adversity in order to reach their potential.  Their stories are inspiring to all of us who continue to strive to meet capabilities.

Did you watch the Olympics?  If you did not, why?  If so, what did you watch and why?  If you could compete in any event, what would it be and why?  

Graduation

Graduation is next Friday.  The school will miss you all.  Individually and collectively you bring a unique culture to the school.  Whenever there is a change in the classes, the school mourns.  Don’t get too choked up, when the new school year begins we move on, just as you will, and the school will adjust to the new classes and the new 8^th graders.

But before we move on, we should reflect on the impact you have had on the school and the impact the school has had on you.  Our school is not static.  It changes with each new class and with each new student.  Each class develops its own identity and personality.  That personality may change over the years as students come and go.  The collection of classes makes up the identity and personality of the school.  Even though this school has been around for over a hundred years, it is the students, classes and teachers along with the families and church that determines the cultural personality of the school.

Each of you alone and all of you together have helped shape this school and your influence will be felt for years to come.  I believe in the idea that whenever you enter into something, you should have a goal to leave it better than it was when you started.  I believe you are leaving the school better today than when you started.  For that, we all owe you a thank you.

But just as you have had the opportunity to shape the school, I believe the school has helped to shape who you are.  While it may take years before you are able to fully appreciate the impact the school has had on your lives, I would expect you can look back over the years and find one or two lessons you will carry forward with you.  You may be able to identify one or two teachers which may have helped you to understand yourself as a student.  You may look at the friendships you have developed over the years and realize what a blessing it was to have them in your life.  You may look at the impact of having your Catholic faith as a corner stone of your education and how that has shaped your understanding of all subjects, not just religion.

What impact do you believe you and your class had on the school?  How would you like your class to be remembered?  What are your fondest memories or greatest life lessons are you taking with you from St. Joe’s?

May Day 2012

I typically refrain from giving my opinion about the topics I write about.  I would rather read what you think than have my thoughts and opinions shape your ideas.  While I still hope for that, after reading about some of the lunacy of May 1, 2012, I can no longer hold my tongue.

On May 1^st across the country May Day protests, some tied to the Occupy Wall Street protests, declared this a day to up the public protests against the 1% of the population controlling the wealth of this country.  Great.  It is each person’s choice to stand up for what they believe in and question our society and government in the face of anything which may infringe on our rights and our liberty.  That being said, this constant protest has reached the point of absurdity in many places and with many people.  They have taken this idea of equality and fairness and turned it into a ridiculous rant against the wealthy.  Many have chosen to make their protests violent, disruptive, and chaotic. 

If you read the papers or search the internet you will find multiple stories concerning arrests, disruptive protests, and other gathering coordinated by the Occupy Whatever City groups.  What fascinates and irritates me is, “What do they want?”  They are concerned about the 1% of the population controlling the political and economic systems of our country.  If this is there problem, what is their solution?

Regardless, I am not one of the 1%.  But I do not believe or plan on giving any one group, wealthy or not, the power to decide anything about my life, liberty or my pursuit of happiness.  This country was built on the beliefs of valuing and respecting each individual.  I know this because I can vote.  I know this because I get to choose my profession.  I can be whatever I want to be and so can my children.  They are not held down or limited based on their economic status.

 The United States of America is the greatest country in the world.  For hundreds of years we have been evolving into what we are, but our foundation is still in line with our founding fathers.  That does not mean we do not have problems.  We do.  Giant problems that need to be resolved.  But the idea of redistributing wealth goes against everything our country was based on.  You can do anything you want to if you are willing to work hard and dedicate yourself to your goals.  That to me is the bigger problem in our country. We have lost our will to work hard.  We want things to be given to us and everything to be fair.  All I know is that the things I really have had to work hard for or continue to work hard with are the most precious things in my life.  The hard work is what makes it all worth it.

I am impressed with some of the protestors.  I think they have valid concerns and would like real change.  Unfortunately it is the knuckle head antics that are getting the press.

What in your life have you had to work hard for?  What challenges did you face when trying to achieve your goals?  How did you overcome the obstacles?

Names

How important is your name?  Where did it come from?  What does it say about you?  Would it be hard to believe your life course may be set by your family surname or by the first decision made for you when you were born?  Research has shown based on your name, you may be predisposed to choose a certain profession.

Our names are held sacred.  Being a person with an alternative spelling for my first name, I am hyper-sensitive to people pronouncing and spelling it correctly.  Additionally, I am overcome with embarrassment if I mispronounce or misspell anyone’s name.  It is something we own and something we are proud of.  It is the first thing we are given and it stays with us wherever we go.

Your name can have a significant impact on those you meet even before you open your mouth.  Most often unfairly, you are judged by your name.  Researchers have polled employers on their impressions of potential candidates based solely on their name.  The name “John” for instance, creates the impression of someone who is wholesome and dependable. 

In addition to creating an immediate impression, your name may also indicate your future career choice.  A Wall Street Journal article from June 21, 2011 cites a controversial study conducted by State University of New York in Buffalo which claims people are more likely to choose a profession with names that are similar the their own.  While this may seem preposterous, it is hard to argue with:

Dr. Douglas Hart – cardiologist

Sue Yoo – lawyer

Cory Greathouse – realtor

Patricia Boguslawski – lawyer

Dr. Payne – orthodontist

Even if your name does not have to do with your profession, it may provide you advantages in other ways.  Simply ask Mr. Will Wynn, winner of the Austin, TX mayoral campaign from 2003 through 2009 if you would like additional evidence. 

Where did you get your name?   Based on your name, what would be your ideal profession?  Regardless of name, what do you want to do professionally in the future?

Tax Day

April 15^th of each year is traditionally tax day in the United States.  Since the 15^th fell on a Sunday this year and the 16^th is a holiday in Washington, D.C., the tax day this year is April 17^th.  Regardless of the actual day, Americans from sea to shining sea are asked to account for their income during the prior calendar year and pay Uncle Sam their share. 

Whether it is due to the fact we are in an election year or our obsession with the economic woes of the United States, there are countless articles, blog and other editorials concerning taxes and tax rates.  Articles regarding how much the President paid versus his secretary, how much we all pay as a result of people cheating on their taxes, what effect the Buffett rule will have on all of us are littering the internet.

Taxes are necessary if we are going to live in operate in a civilized democracy.  It is necessary for each of us to pay our fair share to provide for many of the services we take for granted.  Tax dollars pay for schools, emergency services, military services, highways and street systems in addition to countless other programs and services.  The question becomes what is a “fair share”. 

In the United States we employ a progressive tax structure when it comes to individual income tax.  A progressive tax is based on a sliding scale that increases as your income increases.  While this may seem unfair to some, there are many offsets to personal income taxes available to individuals for various reasons.  As a result it is possible for someone with higher income to pay a lower percentage than others based on their exceptions or deductions.

What do you know about the federal income tax system?  What other taxes are you aware of?  How would you determine the “fair share” each family should pay?  

Hunger Games

You convinced me the Hunger Games was a worthy topic to dedicate to my blog.  It has not been unnoticed the number of Hunger Games books carried around the school by our middle school students.  If you are like me the recent release of the movie has inspired me to pick up the book. (Yes, I am reading it as well.)  Discussing the story in greater detail inspired me to spend Saturday reading.  I have about 80 pages left.    

In addition to being a good story, the topic is an interesting perspective on our culture and where we are potentially heading.  As I talked about with the 8^th grade class, there appears to be many elements described in the book which mirror the world we are living in, specifically our fascination with reality media.  Television, YouTube, and Facebook, amongst others, are driving our social awareness and perception of reality.  While we would like to think the Hunger Games is taking reality television to a whole new level, but how far is the stretch from what we watch today. 

“Survivor” takes some number of castaways each season, drops them in some sort of desolate area and forces them to find their own water, food, and shelter.  Although they are initially placed in tribes, eventually they have to pick each other off one by one.  They form alliances, cheat, steal, manipulate their way to victory.  Minus the killing, this sounds oddly familiar. 

We seem to have a fascination with watching “real” people.  It has created an entirely new genre in television and provides us all an opportunity to become famous.  Throw in the internet and if you film “Charlie” biting his brother finger, you can be the most watch video clip of all time with more than 442 million views. 

Why are we fascinated with watching reality media?  What do you watch and why?  What values and morals are promoted?  Where do you think the future of television is heading?

Continued Problems in the Middle East

For more than a year we have heard of continued troubles with governments, protests, civil war, and violations of human rights throughout the Middle East.  Whether it was the transitions of governments in Tunisia and Egypt, the death of Kaddafi in Libya, or now the brink of civil war in Syria, there seems to be no end in sight to the political, social, and economic unrest.

Below is a link to an interactive map from CNN which allows you to review the events of various Middle Eastern nations:

http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2011/arab.unrest/index.html

Most recently we have been hearing constant reports from Syria.  For more than a year citizen protesters have been demanding improved economic conditions, protection of personal rights and political change.  Their demands include the removal of the President Bashar al-Assad.  As the conflict has escalated, both sides have committed many acts of violence against their opposition including kidnapping, torture and execution.  Unfortunately, many of the deaths or violence from the government has been committed against civilians.  To date the United Nations is claiming approximately 8,000 civilians have been killed during this conflict.  News reports are unable to confirm reports due to the Syrian government’s severe restrictions placed on journalists from around the world. 

Many members of the United Nations Security Council, including the United States, have been asking for the removal of President al-Assad.  Sadly, the entire United Nations has not been in agreement concerning the course of action.  Russia and China have been the dissenting votes of stronger action against the Syrian government until recently.  Over the weekend, a number of acts of violence including car bombings and a change to the proposal of action by the United Nations have loosened the Russian stance.

The United Nations has agreed to send former U.N. Secretary Kofi Annan into the region with other representatives to attempt to bring the groups together and end the violence and crimes against humanity.  While Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is please to see progress, she and others are not sure these actions will be enough to end the bloodshed.

How much do you know about the numerous events from the Middle East?  Do you think we should know more?  When do you think it is necessary for the United States to get involved?  And how should the United States be involved?

Women's History Month

March has been designated as Women’s History Month.  The Library of Congress, the Smithsonian Institution, the National Archives and Records Administration, the National Park Service and other government agencies have partnered in paying tribute to the past and present women who have done so much to shape and progress our world. 

This year’s theme is “Women’s Education – Women’s Empowerment”.  As we have talked in class, education is the key to all future success.  Whether it is developing a nation, building a community or empowering a group of people, with education anything is possible.  Without education life is not only difficult, but obstacles can be immoveable.  Education is the key to freedom from whatever holds you back.  This insight was not always so obvious. 

While women have always made significant contributions to our country, it is not surprising to me that as more women are entering and completing college that we are seeing more and more women in high profile positions.  This is the first generation with more women enrolled in college than men.  This is truly incredible when you consider social bias against higher education for women was dominant until the 1970’s.  Up through the 1970’s college majors and degrees were often limited to your gender, whether that be through actual college requirements or societal pressure.   Today, women are afforded the same opportunities as men. 

Much of the progress can be attributed to Title IX legislation.  Title IX prohibits gender discrimination by any institute receiving federal funds.  Title IX provides equal access to education, facilities, and scholarships to women.  In addition to academics, women’s participation in athletics has increase by 900% in high school and 450% in collegiate activities.  The impact has been incredible. 

What women stand out to you as making significant contributions to our country and why?  What do you think of Title IX and its impact?  In your lifetime, what “firsts” do you think you will see from women?

Dr. Seuss's Birthday

March 2^nd marks the anniversary of Dr. Seuss’s birthday.  While it may seem trivial to celebrate an author of children’s books, it is hard to imagine what life would be like without the influence of The Cat in the Hat or Green Eggs and Ham.

Now that you are older I can imagine you may have lost an appreciation for the genius of Dr. Seuss and his work.  But as you watch the number of first graders and kindergarteners walking around looking like Thing 1 and Thing 2, it is difficult to deny the cultural and educational impact his work has had on society.

In addition to celebrating his birthday, this year they are releasing a movie “The Lorax”.  While it seems like a simple, enjoyable children’s story, it is also a political and social statement by Dr. Seuss concerning the over industrialization of our world and the fear of losing our natural resources.  Dr. Seuss often used his stories to not only entertain and engage children in reading, but provide insight into the world for the parents reading the books.  One of the most gifted books at high school graduation is “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!”  It’s not so subtle message about how to live your life, through the good times and the bad is extremely relevant to people entering into new phases of their lives.

Did you read or were you read Dr. Seuss stories when you were a child?  If so, what is your favorite and why?  What do you think about the younger kids at school celebrating his birthday?  

Smart Phones in the Classrooms

The Idaho Statesman published an article last week about the change in policy in the Meridian School District concerning the use of cell phones and smart phones during school hours.  While it is still left to the discretion of the teacher during class, students are allowed to use their phones in the hallways and common areas.  After years of trying to stop their use, the school district realized the ongoing disciplinary problems they were having with no clear solution.  Instead of trying to limit their use, they are choosing to embrace it.

Teachers are given the final say as to what and when the devices are used during class.  While no teachers are allowing texting or calls during class, many have decided to leverage the technology and incorporate the use in the curriculum.  For example students take pictures of chemistry experiments to use in Power Point presentations, they are able to use the calculator function for algebra or calculus, and translate foreign languages using the Google translator. 

What do you think of the new policy in Meridian?  How do you think it would be possible to incorporate smart phone technology in the classroom?  What problems would teachers and students need to overcome?

Black History Month - 2012

Since 1976, the United States and Canada have recognized February as Black History Month.  The idea to dedicate time to the contributions of African Americans was originated in 1926 by Carter G. Woodson.   His vision was to increase the awareness of people and communities to the significant additions African Americans have made to the overall history of the United States. 

His vision has grown since 1926 to include an entire month where elementary, junior high and high school students take time to learn about notable figures and accomplishments of African Americans.

Black History Month’s annual celebration has come with its fair share of criticism.  From questioning the need to dedicate an entire month to a single race to complaints about the month chosen being the shortest month of the year, the opinions are as varied as they can be outlandish.

Regardless, the idea to educate ourselves about the historical influence countless African Americans have had on our country and communities is with merit.  It is a time to dig past the dates and names to attempt to put you in the shoes of race of people who have struggled to gain an equal footing in the United States. 

Without Black History Month we may be familiar but not as cognizant of the incredible feats of Martin Luther King, Jr., Rosa Parks, Jackie Robinson, or Maya Angelou.  The contributions African Americans have made to the fabric of the United States are without question. 

Throughout the history of the United States which African Americans have inspired you and why?  The person you choose can be as recent as Tiger Woods or as old as Frederick Douglas.  They person can be real or fictional.  Which stories resonate with you?  For example, Rosa Parks, Jackie Robinson, or Ruby Bridges.

Catholic Schools Week

This week is Catholic Schools Week in Boise and across the United States.  It is a time to celebrate and appreciate the opportunity to attend a Catholic school.  Catholic schools have a long and interesting history in our country.  Almost simultaneously Catholic schools originated from Franciscan missionaries in Florida and Jesuit in the middle colonies.  As the United States progressed from colonies to states, the school’s needs and objectives evolved.

In the years following the American Revolution, the country, being predominantly Protestant, structured the schooling and curriculum on the teachings of the Protestant Church.  This was at times done at the expense of the Catholic children looking for and education.  In response to the threats of prejudice, Catholic Church leaders decided to start their own schools to ensure a proper education founded in the beliefs of Catholics.

Between the 1830s and the 1960s, the number of schools and students increased.  By around 1965 Catholic schools in America reached its all time high with more than 12,000 parochial schools.  In addition, close to 50% of all Catholic children attended a Catholic School.  In 2006, the number of schools is about half of that and the percentage of Catholic children attending Catholic schools is closer to 15%.  Although this may seem like a significant drop, about 40% of all Catholic schools have a waiting list for incoming students and the needs in suburban areas continues to be high.

In Boise, we are truly blessed to have 4 parochial schools and a Catholic high school.  It seems appropriate this year’s theme for Catholic Schools Week is “Faith, Academics, Service”.  We are lucky to be part of a school which embraces our faith as we establish high academic standards and promote a community focused on providing service to others.    

What do you think about your Catholic education?  What would you say to someone who was interested in sending their children to St. Joe’s?  

Martin Luther King, Jr.

On Monday, January 16 we are remembering the life and teaching of Martin Luther King, Jr. throughout the United States.  While we each may enjoy a day off of school, we do not want to lose the purpose of commemorating his life and his impact on the United States and the world by taking the day for granted.

Martin Luther was born in Atlanta, Georgia.  He was the son, grandson, and great grandson of Baptist ministers.  While he initially was reluctant to accept his inherited occupation, during his time at Morehouse College, Dr. King began to learn how to use his devout Christian beliefs and his natural ability to gather people to promote the ideas of social change.

As his life continued, he actively engaged in the promoting the civil rights of African Americans and the social changes so long overdue.  While the civil war ended nearly 100 years prior to Dr. King, it was not until the 1960’s that America began to recognize the equality of African Americans. 

The teachings of Martin Luther King are as relevant today as they were 40 years ago.  Even though we have taken great strides as a country, we still hear and see acts of prejudice and bigotry in our society.  While we strive for equality and tolerance, we know there is still hate in the world.  Dr. King would encourage us to seek out acts of hate and intolerance in the world and find peaceful solutions to promote the human spirit.

In addition to Monday being a day for remembrance, it should also be a day of action.  A day dedicated to doing something to promote humanity and discourage intolerance.

The following is a link to the King Center.  The website includes many interesting and thought provoking ideas, including a biography of Dr. King and the history of the holiday.

http://www.thekingcenter.org/

What do you think Dr. King would think of our world today and the changes the country has undergone?  Can you think of situations in our world today where intolerance and prejudice exist?  What actions are you willing to take to promote the human spirit and the ideas of tolerance, acceptance and forgiveness?

Year in Review 2011

At the end of each year, many people and publications take time to reflect on the significant events which shaped the year.  We like to remind ourselves of the inspirational events and people that may have touched our lives.  We remember the tragic situations which made us stop and pray.  We hold in memory those we have lost and smile at the thoughts of those that made us laugh. 

Reflection is important in life.  Not to dwell, but to learn.  We use past events to find solutions to the problems of today.  The following events, both the good and the bad, inspired, baffled, and made me smile.

Global Events

Tsunami in Japan

The Royal Wedding

The political unrest in northern Africa

The deaths of Osama Bin Laden and Sudam Hussien

Entertainment

The release of the last Harry Potter movie

Kim Kardashian’s brief marriage and quick divorce

U.S. Events

Death of Steven Jobs

The Occupy Wall Street protests

The continuing economic troubles

10^th Anniversary of the September 11^th attacks

150^th Anniversary of the start of the Civil War

Events in Idaho

Education Reform

Execution of Ezra Rhodes by lethal injection

St. Joe’s Events

8^th Grade Boys win Hallissey

The completion of the school expansion

The retirement of Mrs. Violette and Mrs. Anchustegui

Personal Events

My daughter starting high school

Getting my own classroom

Bell’s Palsy

What events were the most significant to you in 2011?  Why?  What are you looking forward to in 2012?