That's the message provided by Danica McKellar, the erstwhile Winnie Cooper from "The Wonder Years".
That’s right: Math DOESN’T suck!
In Math Doesn’t Suck, internationally known actress and bonafide math genius Danica McKellar — called a “math superstar” by The New York Times — rips the lid off the myth that math “sucks,” helping to show that math can be easy, relevant, and even glamorous—while providing the tools needed to ace the next big math test!
With Danica as a personal tutor and coach, even the most frustrated student will finally “get” fractions, decimals, rates, ratios, proportions, “solving for x,” and more — the very concepts that, if not fully understood in middle school, have been proven to cause continued problems throughout high school and beyond.
Check out the official Math Doesn’t Suck Web site for more info including a full solution guide for the book, a forum and why you shouldn’t hide your smarts from the boys!
And while you’re at it … you can pre-order Danica’s new book Kiss My Math: Showing Pre-Algebra Who’s Boss today!
Sunday, July 27, 2008
SAT and ACT Prep Course
From the BCCT
SAT and ACT Prep Course to be offered in Morrisville
Posted in News on Saturday, July 26th, 2008 at 2:13 pm by Courier Times reporter Manasee Wagh
The Morrisville School District 21st Century Grant Community Learning Centers is sponsoring a SAT and ACT Prep Course. It is open to students who live in Morrisville Borough and will graduate in 2009 and 2010.
Christianson Educators will present the course, which will include practice SAT and ACT tests, tutoring and individual evaluations. Parents and students should attend an orientation on Friday, Aug. 15. Classes start on Friday, Aug. 22 and end on Oct. 30 in preparation for the Nov. 1 SAT test.
For further information or to register, please call Lori at 215-428-0500 ext. 203.
SAT and ACT Prep Course to be offered in Morrisville
Posted in News on Saturday, July 26th, 2008 at 2:13 pm by Courier Times reporter Manasee Wagh
The Morrisville School District 21st Century Grant Community Learning Centers is sponsoring a SAT and ACT Prep Course. It is open to students who live in Morrisville Borough and will graduate in 2009 and 2010.
Christianson Educators will present the course, which will include practice SAT and ACT tests, tutoring and individual evaluations. Parents and students should attend an orientation on Friday, Aug. 15. Classes start on Friday, Aug. 22 and end on Oct. 30 in preparation for the Nov. 1 SAT test.
For further information or to register, please call Lori at 215-428-0500 ext. 203.
Saturday, July 26, 2008
"Hair Spray" at the Pool Tonight
Thanks to the emailer who sent in this reminder...
The Morrisville Community Pool & Morrisville Borough Arts & Events Committee will be hosting a Free Family Movie - "Hair Spray" this Saturday July 26 8-11pm at the Morrisville Community Pool Parking Lot. The movie will be shown "Drive-In" style. Stay in your car or relax outside.
The Morrisville Community Pool & Morrisville Borough Arts & Events Committee will be hosting a Free Family Movie - "Hair Spray" this Saturday July 26 8-11pm at the Morrisville Community Pool Parking Lot. The movie will be shown "Drive-In" style. Stay in your car or relax outside.
Schools News Around the Blogosphere
Summer School for Parents: Rights & Responsibilities; Academic Standards; Tactics & Strategy
Don't Rely on the School to Explain Your IDEA Rights & Responsibilities
Learn how to use IDEA 2004 and the No Child Left Behind Act.
Sizing Up State Academic Standards
Advanced Tactics and Strategies
How NOT to be a Yappy Parent
Submit Written Requests and Reports
Students pass state test, but at what cost to their education?
Cleveland Plain Dealer
For all of those accomplishments, Principal David Root has only one thing to say to the students, staff and citizens of Rocky River: He's sorry. "We don't teach kids anymore," he said. "We teach test-taking skills. We all teach to the test. I long for the days when we used to teach kids."
Strip Search of Middle School Student Violated Fourth Amendment, 9th Circuit Rules
A strip search of an 8th grader by school authorities looking for Ibuprofen pills violated the student's rights under the Fourth Amendment, a federal appeals court has ruled. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit ruled 8-3 on July 11 that officials at an Arizona middle school "acted contrary to all reason and common sense as they trampled over" the privacy interests of the student.
Seven Things All Adults Should Know About MySpace
What's a teacher to do? Stay informed about student uses of technology. Build student trust by maintaining an open mind about new social phenomena. Teach students about potential hazards of all online environments.
A School Where One Size Doesn't Fit All
Washington Post
Teacher is recruiting students for a new private school like none the Washington area has ever seen. "The model is inspired by the success of home-schoolers," he said. Students will set their class schedules, enabling them to learn at their pace and in their styles. Teachers will act as advisers, not taskmasters.
The genius of American education
by Michael J. Petrilli
Even if education isn't at the top of the list for Senators Obama or McCain during this election season, it remains a major concern for governors and CEOs. That's because they see a direct link between educational achievement and economic growth. And this spring, Education Next published research by Hoover Institution scholar Eric Hanushek and colleagues that illustrated this link. The analysts found that, in general, the higher a country scored on international tests of math and science, the faster its economy grew from 1960 to 2000.
Summer schools run low on funds
Washington Times
Budget woes hit enrichment
From coast to coast, tough financial conditions are forcing school districts and nonprofit groups to cut back on summer programs that are widely viewed as invaluable to both struggling and superior students.
Don't Rely on the School to Explain Your IDEA Rights & Responsibilities
Learn how to use IDEA 2004 and the No Child Left Behind Act.
Sizing Up State Academic Standards
Advanced Tactics and Strategies
How NOT to be a Yappy Parent
Submit Written Requests and Reports
Students pass state test, but at what cost to their education?
Cleveland Plain Dealer
For all of those accomplishments, Principal David Root has only one thing to say to the students, staff and citizens of Rocky River: He's sorry. "We don't teach kids anymore," he said. "We teach test-taking skills. We all teach to the test. I long for the days when we used to teach kids."
Strip Search of Middle School Student Violated Fourth Amendment, 9th Circuit Rules
A strip search of an 8th grader by school authorities looking for Ibuprofen pills violated the student's rights under the Fourth Amendment, a federal appeals court has ruled. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit ruled 8-3 on July 11 that officials at an Arizona middle school "acted contrary to all reason and common sense as they trampled over" the privacy interests of the student.
Seven Things All Adults Should Know About MySpace
What's a teacher to do? Stay informed about student uses of technology. Build student trust by maintaining an open mind about new social phenomena. Teach students about potential hazards of all online environments.
A School Where One Size Doesn't Fit All
Washington Post
Teacher is recruiting students for a new private school like none the Washington area has ever seen. "The model is inspired by the success of home-schoolers," he said. Students will set their class schedules, enabling them to learn at their pace and in their styles. Teachers will act as advisers, not taskmasters.
The genius of American education
by Michael J. Petrilli
Even if education isn't at the top of the list for Senators Obama or McCain during this election season, it remains a major concern for governors and CEOs. That's because they see a direct link between educational achievement and economic growth. And this spring, Education Next published research by Hoover Institution scholar Eric Hanushek and colleagues that illustrated this link. The analysts found that, in general, the higher a country scored on international tests of math and science, the faster its economy grew from 1960 to 2000.
Summer schools run low on funds
Washington Times
Budget woes hit enrichment
From coast to coast, tough financial conditions are forcing school districts and nonprofit groups to cut back on summer programs that are widely viewed as invaluable to both struggling and superior students.
PSBoE President Resigns
From the Inquirer.
Chairman of Pa. education board resigns
MARTHA RAFFAELE The Associated Press Posted on Wed, Jul. 23, 2008
HARRISBURG, Pa. - The chairman of the State Board of Education said Wednesday he is leaving the board after being asked by Gov. Ed Rendell to give up his leadership post.
Karl Girton's resignation, effective Aug. 1, follows months of criticism of a board proposal that Pennsylvania students pass a series of tests before they can graduate high school. The 22-member board sets state education policy and regulations for K-12 public schools and higher education.
But Girton and a Rendell spokesman said the resignation was unrelated to controversy over the testing proposal, an initiative championed by Girton and the administration.
Girton, who has served on the board since 1992, said he spoke Friday by telephone with Rendell, who asked him to step down as chairman but stay on the board until the governor leaves office in 2011. After taking the weekend to think it over, Girton decided to leave the board altogether.
"There are no hard feelings," Girton said. "I just think it's in the best interest of the board that I decline his invitation to remain on the board. ... I don't think I would have been effective."
The governor felt the time was right to appoint a new chairman, given the recent turnover on the board, Rendell's spokesman Chuck Ardo said Wednesday.
"I don't think anybody is disappointed with his performance," Ardo said.
Seventeen of the board's members are nominated by the governor and confirmed by the state Senate. Eight new board members were confirmed to fill vacancies in April , the largest number of new members since Rendell took office, Ardo said.
Rendell waited to raise the issue of new board leadership with Girton because the administration was focused on completing the 2008-09 state budget and didn't have time to consider other issues, Ardo said.
Girton, a partner with a management services company in Millville, said in a letter he sent Tuesday to Rendell that his resignation "will clear the board for another nominee and the opportunity for the entire board to more effectively coalesce around the new chair."
The board's plan to adopt new graduation requirements stalled this year amid opposition from many lawmakers, school board members and educators who said the proposed rules would undermine the policymaking authority of local school boards.
The board envisioned creating 10 subject-specific final high school exams, and students would have to pass six in order to graduate, starting with the class of 2014. Failing students could be retested.
Among the most vocal opponents of the plan was the Pennsylvania State Education Association, the state's largest teachers' union. Association spokesman Wythe Keever said the union did not put any pressure on Rendell to remove Girton from his leadership post.
In an effort to win broader support for the idea, the state Education Department is planning to develop tests that school districts can administer voluntarily, starting in the 2009-10 school year.
Girton served as chairman of the board's council of basic education, which oversees K-12 regulations and policy, from 1999 until he was appointed chairman of the full board by then-Gov. Mark S. Schweiker in 2002.
During his tenure, Girton presided over updates of the state's academic standards and the adoption of new early-childhood education standards, among other policy changes.
Girton is a former Millville Area School Board member and former director of the Susquehanna Intermediate Unit, a regional education agency, in Snyder County.
Chairman of Pa. education board resigns
MARTHA RAFFAELE The Associated Press Posted on Wed, Jul. 23, 2008
HARRISBURG, Pa. - The chairman of the State Board of Education said Wednesday he is leaving the board after being asked by Gov. Ed Rendell to give up his leadership post.
Karl Girton's resignation, effective Aug. 1, follows months of criticism of a board proposal that Pennsylvania students pass a series of tests before they can graduate high school. The 22-member board sets state education policy and regulations for K-12 public schools and higher education.
But Girton and a Rendell spokesman said the resignation was unrelated to controversy over the testing proposal, an initiative championed by Girton and the administration.
Girton, who has served on the board since 1992, said he spoke Friday by telephone with Rendell, who asked him to step down as chairman but stay on the board until the governor leaves office in 2011. After taking the weekend to think it over, Girton decided to leave the board altogether.
"There are no hard feelings," Girton said. "I just think it's in the best interest of the board that I decline his invitation to remain on the board. ... I don't think I would have been effective."
The governor felt the time was right to appoint a new chairman, given the recent turnover on the board, Rendell's spokesman Chuck Ardo said Wednesday.
"I don't think anybody is disappointed with his performance," Ardo said.
Seventeen of the board's members are nominated by the governor and confirmed by the state Senate. Eight new board members were confirmed to fill vacancies in April , the largest number of new members since Rendell took office, Ardo said.
Rendell waited to raise the issue of new board leadership with Girton because the administration was focused on completing the 2008-09 state budget and didn't have time to consider other issues, Ardo said.
Girton, a partner with a management services company in Millville, said in a letter he sent Tuesday to Rendell that his resignation "will clear the board for another nominee and the opportunity for the entire board to more effectively coalesce around the new chair."
The board's plan to adopt new graduation requirements stalled this year amid opposition from many lawmakers, school board members and educators who said the proposed rules would undermine the policymaking authority of local school boards.
The board envisioned creating 10 subject-specific final high school exams, and students would have to pass six in order to graduate, starting with the class of 2014. Failing students could be retested.
Among the most vocal opponents of the plan was the Pennsylvania State Education Association, the state's largest teachers' union. Association spokesman Wythe Keever said the union did not put any pressure on Rendell to remove Girton from his leadership post.
In an effort to win broader support for the idea, the state Education Department is planning to develop tests that school districts can administer voluntarily, starting in the 2009-10 school year.
Girton served as chairman of the board's council of basic education, which oversees K-12 regulations and policy, from 1999 until he was appointed chairman of the full board by then-Gov. Mark S. Schweiker in 2002.
During his tenure, Girton presided over updates of the state's academic standards and the adoption of new early-childhood education standards, among other policy changes.
Girton is a former Millville Area School Board member and former director of the Susquehanna Intermediate Unit, a regional education agency, in Snyder County.
Friday, July 25, 2008
Math in Daily Life
Thanks for the email link from Captain Algebra...
Math in Daily Life
When you buy a car, follow a recipe, or decorate your home, you're using math principles. People have been using these same principles for thousands of years, across countries and continents. Whether you're sailing a boat off the coast of Japan or building a house in Peru, you're using math to get things done.
Try a hands-on activity whenever you see this icon.
How can math be so universal? First, human beings didn't invent math concepts; we discovered them. Also, the language of math is numbers, not English or German or Russian. If we are well versed in this language of numbers, it can help us make important decisions and perform everyday tasks. Math can help us to shop wisely, buy the right insurance, remodel a home within a budget, understand population growth, or even bet on the horse with the best chance of winning the race.
Join us as we explore how math can help us in our daily lives. In this exhibit, you'll look at the language of numbers through common situations, such as playing games or cooking. Put your decision-making skills to the test by deciding whether buying or leasing a new car is right for you, and predict how much money you can save for your retirement by using an interest calculator.
Math in Daily Life
When you buy a car, follow a recipe, or decorate your home, you're using math principles. People have been using these same principles for thousands of years, across countries and continents. Whether you're sailing a boat off the coast of Japan or building a house in Peru, you're using math to get things done.
Try a hands-on activity whenever you see this icon.
How can math be so universal? First, human beings didn't invent math concepts; we discovered them. Also, the language of math is numbers, not English or German or Russian. If we are well versed in this language of numbers, it can help us make important decisions and perform everyday tasks. Math can help us to shop wisely, buy the right insurance, remodel a home within a budget, understand population growth, or even bet on the horse with the best chance of winning the race.
Join us as we explore how math can help us in our daily lives. In this exhibit, you'll look at the language of numbers through common situations, such as playing games or cooking. Put your decision-making skills to the test by deciding whether buying or leasing a new car is right for you, and predict how much money you can save for your retirement by using an interest calculator.
Time for the Re-Registration Shuffle
Dig out your documentation. The Morrisville branch of the immigration service is checking to see who crossed the border into Pennsylvania.
Re-registration in Morrisville Schools
Posted in News on Thursday, July 24th, 2008 at 5:00 pm by Courier Times reporter Manasee Wagh
The Morrisville School District will be conducting re-registration this summer. All students who will be attending the Morrisville School District in the Fall and were in kindergarten to 11th grade during the 2007-2008 school year will be required to reregister. New students are not included in this re-registration.
CLASS SCHEDULES AND ASSIGNMENTS WILL NOT BE SENT UNTIL YOUR STUDENT IS RE-REGISTERED.
Re-registration will be held in all of the schools during the day on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 8:30 am to noon and from 1 pm to 3 pm throughout the month of August.
If you are unable to re-register during the day, you can do it on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings during the first three weeks in August from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm in the LGI (Large Group Instruction) room of the middle/senior high school. There will be two Saturday re-registrations. They will be held August 9 and 16 from 10 am to 3 pm at the middle senior high school in the LGI.
Please bring proof of identification for yourself in the form of a PA state issued ID card or valid PA driver’s license, passport or military ID.
Also bring four proofs of residency. All must have the same address information.
One of the items must be a moving permit, deed, 2008 tax bill, mortgage payment bill/booklet, or lease.
The following will be accepted as proof of residency: deed or agreement of sale, per capita tax bill or paid receipt, moving permit, bank statement, automobile registration, lease verified by apartment superintendent, welfare identification, current cable or other utility statement, property tax bill or paid tax receipt, W-2 statement/IRS statement or tax return, automobile/homeowners/tenant insurance statement.
You do not need to bring any documents for your children.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
The Dumbest Generation?
Here's a pretty serious-minded video featuring Mark Bauerlein, the author of "The Dumbest Generation"
Any thoughts or comment?
Any thoughts or comment?
Community Action Team Update
Here's a letter I received about the Tuesday night Community Action Team meeting.
Once again, thank you VERY much to the people who provide updates on the meetings and goings on in town.
This letter was also copied to an employee of the BCCT. I am grateful for being copied when these letters go to board members, the media, or state and local officials. It's good to know that the word is getting out. People are beginning to understand that our educational system has been hijacked and is being dismantled piece by piece. I'm sure that many, many more letters are received by these people that are not provided to me. It's all good. We need everyone to get the word out: There are good, hardworking people in Morrisville who don't want to pay high taxes AND do not want to dismantle the system. They are ready and willing to work together for the common good, just like the Stop the School people pledged to do.
So much for that...another broken campaign promise.
17 members of the community and 3 members of the school board met last night with executive facilitator Ms. Perotti. The group's consensus reached in three independent smaller groups was that the school board needs a long-term engineering or facilities plan with short-term goals and a time-line. Three things struck me as important at this meeting. 1) people from the board and the spectators who normally disagree with their actions were in complete agreement that this was the highest priority from a list of 10 items under the heading of "Facilities". 2) That "Facilities" was the most important topic that needed to be addressed at this time and 3) that three separate sub-groups all working independently came to the exact same conclusion.
This seems to me to be a negative reaction to the last open school board meeting approval of the band-aid approach to fixing the heaters / boilers in the High School and Grandview. What this group agreed upon can be seen as a significant setback to the independent work of Mr. Hellmann who has made engineering decision based on a CPA's training.
This group believes that consensus is possible, that fixing the schools is a priority and that the children and their physical safety and education should come first in any discussions.
I would appreciate any publication of comments to let the community know that we can work together for the greater good of the schools and the children.
The public is welcome to our meetings. The next will be held in September. [Moderator Note: Does anyone have the specific date?]
Yours Truly,
John Ceneviva Jr.
Once again, thank you VERY much to the people who provide updates on the meetings and goings on in town.
This letter was also copied to an employee of the BCCT. I am grateful for being copied when these letters go to board members, the media, or state and local officials. It's good to know that the word is getting out. People are beginning to understand that our educational system has been hijacked and is being dismantled piece by piece. I'm sure that many, many more letters are received by these people that are not provided to me. It's all good. We need everyone to get the word out: There are good, hardworking people in Morrisville who don't want to pay high taxes AND do not want to dismantle the system. They are ready and willing to work together for the common good, just like the Stop the School people pledged to do.
So much for that...another broken campaign promise.
17 members of the community and 3 members of the school board met last night with executive facilitator Ms. Perotti. The group's consensus reached in three independent smaller groups was that the school board needs a long-term engineering or facilities plan with short-term goals and a time-line. Three things struck me as important at this meeting. 1) people from the board and the spectators who normally disagree with their actions were in complete agreement that this was the highest priority from a list of 10 items under the heading of "Facilities". 2) That "Facilities" was the most important topic that needed to be addressed at this time and 3) that three separate sub-groups all working independently came to the exact same conclusion.
This seems to me to be a negative reaction to the last open school board meeting approval of the band-aid approach to fixing the heaters / boilers in the High School and Grandview. What this group agreed upon can be seen as a significant setback to the independent work of Mr. Hellmann who has made engineering decision based on a CPA's training.
This group believes that consensus is possible, that fixing the schools is a priority and that the children and their physical safety and education should come first in any discussions.
I would appreciate any publication of comments to let the community know that we can work together for the greater good of the schools and the children.
The public is welcome to our meetings. The next will be held in September. [Moderator Note: Does anyone have the specific date?]
Yours Truly,
John Ceneviva Jr.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
More From the Mailbag
This is one of those chain letters that you get from well meaning friends. Most times there's not a lot to commend passing it on, but when I got this one today, I was surprised to find it very meaningful and so well attributed and documented on the web.
It made me think about the garbage trucks right here in town. We're all guilty of it from time to time, but there are some who have raised sanitation engineering to an art.
Beware of Garbage Trucks
How often do you let other people's nonsense change your mood? Do you let a bad driver, rude waiter, curt boss, or an insensitive employee ruin your day? Unless you're the Terminator, for an instant you're probably set back on your heels. However, the mark of a successful person is how quickly she can get back her focus on what's important.
Sixteen years ago I learned this lesson. I learned it in the back of a New York City taxi cab. Here's what happened. I hopped in a taxi, and we took off for Grand Central Station. We were driving in the right lane when all of a sudden a black car jumped out of a parking space right in front of us. My taxi driver slammed on his brakes, skidded, and missed the other car's back end by just inches!
Here's what happened next. The driver of the other car, the guy who almost caused a big accident, whipped his head around and he started yelling bad words at us. How do I know? Ask any New Yorker, some words in New York come with a special face.
Now, here's what blew me away. My taxi driver just smiled and waved at the guy. And I mean, he was friendly. So, I said, "Why did you just do that? This guy almost ruined your car and sent us to the hospital!" And this is when my taxi driver told me what I now call, "The Law of the Garbage Truck™."
Many people are like garbage trucks. They run around full of garbage, full of frustration, full of anger, and full of disappointment. As their garbage piles up, they need a place to dump it. And if you let them, they'll dump it on you.
When someone wants to dump on you, don't take it personally. You just smile, wave, wish them well, and move on. You'll be happy you did. I guarantee it.
So this was it: The "Law of the Garbage Truck™." I started thinking, how often do I let Garbage Trucks run right over me? And how often do I take their garbage and spread it to other people: at work, at home, on the streets? It was that day I said, "I'm not going to do it anymore."
I began to see garbage trucks. Like in the movie "The Sixth Sense," the little boy said, "I see Dead People." Well now "I see Garbage Trucks." I see the load they're carrying. I see them coming to drop it off. And like my Taxi Driver, I don't make it a personal thing; I just smile, wave, wish them well, and I move on.
One of my favorite football players of all time, Walter Payton, did this every day on the football field. He would jump up as quickly as he hit the ground after being tackled. He never dwelled on a hit. Payton was ready to make the next play his best. Good leaders know they have to be ready for their next meeting. Good parents know that they have to welcome their children home from school with hugs and kisses. Leaders and parents know that they have to be fully present, and at their best for the people they care about.
The bottom line is that successful people do not let Garbage Trucks take over their day. What about you? What would happen in your life, starting today, if you let more garbage trucks pass you by?
Here's my bet. You'll be happier. I guarantee it.
Beware of Garbage Trucks ™
© David J. Pollay
HappyNews Columnist
Updated: 9/24/2007
It made me think about the garbage trucks right here in town. We're all guilty of it from time to time, but there are some who have raised sanitation engineering to an art.
Beware of Garbage Trucks
How often do you let other people's nonsense change your mood? Do you let a bad driver, rude waiter, curt boss, or an insensitive employee ruin your day? Unless you're the Terminator, for an instant you're probably set back on your heels. However, the mark of a successful person is how quickly she can get back her focus on what's important.
Sixteen years ago I learned this lesson. I learned it in the back of a New York City taxi cab. Here's what happened. I hopped in a taxi, and we took off for Grand Central Station. We were driving in the right lane when all of a sudden a black car jumped out of a parking space right in front of us. My taxi driver slammed on his brakes, skidded, and missed the other car's back end by just inches!
Here's what happened next. The driver of the other car, the guy who almost caused a big accident, whipped his head around and he started yelling bad words at us. How do I know? Ask any New Yorker, some words in New York come with a special face.
Now, here's what blew me away. My taxi driver just smiled and waved at the guy. And I mean, he was friendly. So, I said, "Why did you just do that? This guy almost ruined your car and sent us to the hospital!" And this is when my taxi driver told me what I now call, "The Law of the Garbage Truck™."
Many people are like garbage trucks. They run around full of garbage, full of frustration, full of anger, and full of disappointment. As their garbage piles up, they need a place to dump it. And if you let them, they'll dump it on you.
When someone wants to dump on you, don't take it personally. You just smile, wave, wish them well, and move on. You'll be happy you did. I guarantee it.
So this was it: The "Law of the Garbage Truck™." I started thinking, how often do I let Garbage Trucks run right over me? And how often do I take their garbage and spread it to other people: at work, at home, on the streets? It was that day I said, "I'm not going to do it anymore."
I began to see garbage trucks. Like in the movie "The Sixth Sense," the little boy said, "I see Dead People." Well now "I see Garbage Trucks." I see the load they're carrying. I see them coming to drop it off. And like my Taxi Driver, I don't make it a personal thing; I just smile, wave, wish them well, and I move on.
One of my favorite football players of all time, Walter Payton, did this every day on the football field. He would jump up as quickly as he hit the ground after being tackled. He never dwelled on a hit. Payton was ready to make the next play his best. Good leaders know they have to be ready for their next meeting. Good parents know that they have to welcome their children home from school with hugs and kisses. Leaders and parents know that they have to be fully present, and at their best for the people they care about.
The bottom line is that successful people do not let Garbage Trucks take over their day. What about you? What would happen in your life, starting today, if you let more garbage trucks pass you by?
Here's my bet. You'll be happier. I guarantee it.
Beware of Garbage Trucks ™
© David J. Pollay
HappyNews Columnist
Updated: 9/24/2007
Comics From the Mailbag
In consideration of your blog entry http://savethemorrisvilleschool.blogspot.com/2008/07/big-lie-and-budgets.html
And in response to the posters request of“I loved the idea of seeing the company prez with a swollen head”, I offer the attached.
And in response to the posters request of“I loved the idea of seeing the company prez with a swollen head”, I offer the attached.
Bridge Street Improvements
Upgrade to downtown coming...
New traffic signals, curbs, sidewalks included in $1.54 million project
By DANNY ADLER
New traffic signals, new curbs and sidewalks, and freshly painted crosswalks are coming to Bridge Street and South Pennsylvania Avenue as part of a $1.54 million improvement project in Morrisville, officials said.
The borough will hold a groundbreaking ceremony next week to mark the beginning of “this important community initiative,” which is being paid for by the Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission. The bridge commission began awarding the borough money in 2005 to improve traffic conditions and “walkability” and foster downtown revitalization.
The funds are part of $40 million in grants going to towns along the Delaware River with bridge commission bridges stretching from Morrisville to the New York border, the bridge commission has said.
The project will bring new curbs, sidewalks and crosswalks on West Bridge Street from Pennsylvania to Cox avenues and on South Pennsylvania Avenue from Bridge Street to Philadelphia Avenue, officials said.
New traffic signals will be installed at the intersections of Delmorr Avenue and Bridge Street, and Pennsylvania Avenue and Bridge Street. A landscaped median island is planned for East Bridge Street from the Lower Trenton Toll Supported Bridge — the “Trenton Makes The World Takes” bridge — to Delmorr Avenue.
“It will make it much more pedestrian friendly and safer,” borough council President Nancy Sherlock said of the improvements. “It’s definitely a safety issue as well as a beautification issue.”
Work on curbs and sidewalks on South Pennsylvania Avenue under the railroad bridge already has begun, borough Manager George Mount said. Work on West Bridge Street will begin soon, and the project is expected to be completed by the end of August or early September, he said.
The groundbreaking takes place at 11 a.m. July 30 at the Mill Stone at the corner of East Bridge Street and North Delmorr Avenue.
New traffic signals, curbs, sidewalks included in $1.54 million project
By DANNY ADLER
New traffic signals, new curbs and sidewalks, and freshly painted crosswalks are coming to Bridge Street and South Pennsylvania Avenue as part of a $1.54 million improvement project in Morrisville, officials said.
The borough will hold a groundbreaking ceremony next week to mark the beginning of “this important community initiative,” which is being paid for by the Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission. The bridge commission began awarding the borough money in 2005 to improve traffic conditions and “walkability” and foster downtown revitalization.
The funds are part of $40 million in grants going to towns along the Delaware River with bridge commission bridges stretching from Morrisville to the New York border, the bridge commission has said.
The project will bring new curbs, sidewalks and crosswalks on West Bridge Street from Pennsylvania to Cox avenues and on South Pennsylvania Avenue from Bridge Street to Philadelphia Avenue, officials said.
New traffic signals will be installed at the intersections of Delmorr Avenue and Bridge Street, and Pennsylvania Avenue and Bridge Street. A landscaped median island is planned for East Bridge Street from the Lower Trenton Toll Supported Bridge — the “Trenton Makes The World Takes” bridge — to Delmorr Avenue.
“It will make it much more pedestrian friendly and safer,” borough council President Nancy Sherlock said of the improvements. “It’s definitely a safety issue as well as a beautification issue.”
Work on curbs and sidewalks on South Pennsylvania Avenue under the railroad bridge already has begun, borough Manager George Mount said. Work on West Bridge Street will begin soon, and the project is expected to be completed by the end of August or early September, he said.
The groundbreaking takes place at 11 a.m. July 30 at the Mill Stone at the corner of East Bridge Street and North Delmorr Avenue.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Community Action Plan Meeting tonight/7P.M.
Reminder to come out if you want to help determine the future of the Morrisville School District.
The mv.org website does not list the time of the meeting. Anyone know that information?
UPDATE: 7 P.M. in the LGI.
CAP Meeting
The Community Action Plan committee will meet on July 22, 2008 in the LGI of the Morrisville Middle/Senior High School.
The mv.org website does not list the time of the meeting. Anyone know that information?
UPDATE: 7 P.M. in the LGI.
CAP Meeting
The Community Action Plan committee will meet on July 22, 2008 in the LGI of the Morrisville Middle/Senior High School.
Ambulance Company Tax Hike on Ballot
The Morrisville Borough Council wants you to decide to raise your own taxes. The November ballot will have a referendum where the people of Morrisville can approve a millage increase for the rescue squad.
The ambulance company is a great place to spend your money wisely and effectively. Staffed by dedicated volunteers, these people are literally life savers. This is a no-brainer decision.
I just wonder why this is a potentially "OK" tax rise. Is it because it's only a few mils and it's only $30 bucks a house? Is it because "everyone" needs the rescue squad and not just the "children"? Or is it something else?
Why wasn't the council able to find a revenue neutral way to provide the same funding? It leaves open the question of why the council members who voted against Gateway (read: new tax revenues) now want to tax you more. I'm all for funding the rescue squad at a higher level. Now cut at least the same amount out of the overall budget and make it a neutral impact to the taxpayer. According to the quote provided by the BCCT, it looks like one council member wants to pile the increase on top of what we already pay.
Here's the catch: You're taxing yourself and the paid council members evade the responsibility of accurately managing the budget. Imagine this line in the BCCT next year: "'I didn't raise your taxes,' said council member X, "you voted it in. It's your responsibility that your tax bill is higher.'"
If only...IF ONLY!...there was someone on the borough council who was aggressive in ferreting out corruption and malfeasance and could spot slackers wasting the taxpayer's dime. Where could we find someone like that?
Morrisville residents to vote on EMS fund
Voters in Morrisville will have their say on a millage increase to bulk up the EMS fund to support the Morrisville Ambulance Squad.
A resolution to place a referendum on the Nov. 4 ballot passed unanimously at Monday night’s council meeting. The referendum will ask voters whether they want the borough to increase the EMS fund to 2 mills, which is 1.5 mills more than permitted by the borough code without being approved through a successful referendum, solicitor James Downey said.
Councilman Stephen Worob noted that the millage increase translates to about $30 per household. The borough solicitor will submit the referendum to Bucks officials. If approved, it will appear on the November ballot.
The ambulance company is a great place to spend your money wisely and effectively. Staffed by dedicated volunteers, these people are literally life savers. This is a no-brainer decision.
I just wonder why this is a potentially "OK" tax rise. Is it because it's only a few mils and it's only $30 bucks a house? Is it because "everyone" needs the rescue squad and not just the "children"? Or is it something else?
Why wasn't the council able to find a revenue neutral way to provide the same funding? It leaves open the question of why the council members who voted against Gateway (read: new tax revenues) now want to tax you more. I'm all for funding the rescue squad at a higher level. Now cut at least the same amount out of the overall budget and make it a neutral impact to the taxpayer. According to the quote provided by the BCCT, it looks like one council member wants to pile the increase on top of what we already pay.
Here's the catch: You're taxing yourself and the paid council members evade the responsibility of accurately managing the budget. Imagine this line in the BCCT next year: "'I didn't raise your taxes,' said council member X, "you voted it in. It's your responsibility that your tax bill is higher.'"
If only...IF ONLY!...there was someone on the borough council who was aggressive in ferreting out corruption and malfeasance and could spot slackers wasting the taxpayer's dime. Where could we find someone like that?
Morrisville residents to vote on EMS fund
Voters in Morrisville will have their say on a millage increase to bulk up the EMS fund to support the Morrisville Ambulance Squad.
A resolution to place a referendum on the Nov. 4 ballot passed unanimously at Monday night’s council meeting. The referendum will ask voters whether they want the borough to increase the EMS fund to 2 mills, which is 1.5 mills more than permitted by the borough code without being approved through a successful referendum, solicitor James Downey said.
Councilman Stephen Worob noted that the millage increase translates to about $30 per household. The borough solicitor will submit the referendum to Bucks officials. If approved, it will appear on the November ballot.
Monday, July 21, 2008
Pennsbury taxpayers frustrated
When we're absorbed by Pennsbury, here's what's in store for us...
Board needs fresh blood
The Courier Times reported on Jan. 11 of this year that Pennsbury will raise taxes, on average, $401. J. D. Mullane wrote a column on Jan. 29 that stated “readers rage over fullday kindergarten.” Come on, who as an adult remembers school that far back? What benefit was it?
On May 9, the tax hike is $231. On June 4, they have suggestions including a hiring freeze and six other spending cuts. At least they’re going in the right direction. On June 13, the budget is OK’d with a $175 increase. On June 29, the increase is 4 percent. A letter writer on Jan. 31st said he was confused by the Pennsbury school board. I’ll give him an Amen!
Alas, my taxes have gone up again this year. And the year before, and the year before — you get the idea. What do I get from all these increases? Zero, Nothing, Nada, Zilch. Why can’t Pennsbury come up with new ideas so the residents don’t have to shoulder the burden for all these overpaid teachers?
Maybe Pennsbury needs to have fresh blood on the board, new ideas, people who are more competent than the present. For the good of the community Pennsbury needs to do something! Tax revolt!
Phil Denny Falls
Board needs fresh blood
The Courier Times reported on Jan. 11 of this year that Pennsbury will raise taxes, on average, $401. J. D. Mullane wrote a column on Jan. 29 that stated “readers rage over fullday kindergarten.” Come on, who as an adult remembers school that far back? What benefit was it?
On May 9, the tax hike is $231. On June 4, they have suggestions including a hiring freeze and six other spending cuts. At least they’re going in the right direction. On June 13, the budget is OK’d with a $175 increase. On June 29, the increase is 4 percent. A letter writer on Jan. 31st said he was confused by the Pennsbury school board. I’ll give him an Amen!
Alas, my taxes have gone up again this year. And the year before, and the year before — you get the idea. What do I get from all these increases? Zero, Nothing, Nada, Zilch. Why can’t Pennsbury come up with new ideas so the residents don’t have to shoulder the burden for all these overpaid teachers?
Maybe Pennsbury needs to have fresh blood on the board, new ideas, people who are more competent than the present. For the good of the community Pennsbury needs to do something! Tax revolt!
Phil Denny Falls
BCTHS Article
From the BCCT.
Turning kids on to a career path
The tech school offers almost 30 summer exploration courses for seventh- and eighth-graders who live in its sending districts.
By JOAN HELLYER
Students participating in a skateboard construction project at Bucks County Technical High School this summer will not only emerge with a new way to get around, they’re also getting a jumpstart on making a career choice, school officials said. “They’re learning without knowing it,” said Kevin Ody, who oversees the tech school’s threeweek summer program.
Almost 30 summer courses are being offered by the comprehensive technical high school that serves the Bensalem, Bristol, Bristol Township, Morrisville, Neshaminy and Pennsbury school districts. The course offerings include culinary, forensic science, robotics, cosmetology, money management, plumbing, automotive, commercial art and computers.
Seventh- and eighthgraders from the sending districts are invited to participate in the classes to learn more about the career and trades training available at the school on Wistar Road in Bristol Township. David Ayres, a teacher’s assistant, said he knew doing something with skateboards would provide a good way to connect with the students. “I want them to open their minds to know they can do whatever they want to do. That’s what a tech school is all about,” said Ayres, a 2005 BCTHS grad. He precut seven layers of wood in the form of a skateboard for the 13 students in the class and then showed the kids how he did it.
The students spent last week gluing and sealing each layer together and sanding the board once all the layers were in place, Ayres said. This week they’ll paint the skateboards and attach wheels to the bottoms. In the process, the kids are getting a feel for various construction procedures.
“It makes me feel very accomplished,” said Angelica Mena, 13, an eighth-grader at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School in Bristol Township.
The kids said participating in the program has given them the chance to consider their options. Most said they would like to attend the school, where students are accepted based on a variety of criteria.
“I think it will be good for my career,” said Michael Arthur, 12, a seventh-grader at Pennsbury’s William Penn Middle School.
Many studies suggest that, too, according to the Association for Career and Technical Education.
The studies show that technical education graduates are 10 percent to 15 percent more likely to be in the labor force than are their peers from traditional high schools who don’t go on to college, according to ACTE. In addition, the tech graduates earn 8 percent to 9 percent more than academic program graduates, according to the association dedicated to providing students with the education needed to have successful careers.
BCTHS, one of 14 comprehensive technical high schools in the state, does not keep track of how many summer exploration students ultimately end up at the tech school, Ody said.
However, he knows quite a few have over the years, including 2008 graduate Brian Knecht, who recently won a silver medal in the welding division of the national SkillsUSA competition.
“Some of our best students are those who participate in the summer program. It turns them on [to a career path],” the administrator said.
Turning kids on to a career path
The tech school offers almost 30 summer exploration courses for seventh- and eighth-graders who live in its sending districts.
By JOAN HELLYER
Students participating in a skateboard construction project at Bucks County Technical High School this summer will not only emerge with a new way to get around, they’re also getting a jumpstart on making a career choice, school officials said. “They’re learning without knowing it,” said Kevin Ody, who oversees the tech school’s threeweek summer program.
Almost 30 summer courses are being offered by the comprehensive technical high school that serves the Bensalem, Bristol, Bristol Township, Morrisville, Neshaminy and Pennsbury school districts. The course offerings include culinary, forensic science, robotics, cosmetology, money management, plumbing, automotive, commercial art and computers.
Seventh- and eighthgraders from the sending districts are invited to participate in the classes to learn more about the career and trades training available at the school on Wistar Road in Bristol Township. David Ayres, a teacher’s assistant, said he knew doing something with skateboards would provide a good way to connect with the students. “I want them to open their minds to know they can do whatever they want to do. That’s what a tech school is all about,” said Ayres, a 2005 BCTHS grad. He precut seven layers of wood in the form of a skateboard for the 13 students in the class and then showed the kids how he did it.
The students spent last week gluing and sealing each layer together and sanding the board once all the layers were in place, Ayres said. This week they’ll paint the skateboards and attach wheels to the bottoms. In the process, the kids are getting a feel for various construction procedures.
“It makes me feel very accomplished,” said Angelica Mena, 13, an eighth-grader at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School in Bristol Township.
The kids said participating in the program has given them the chance to consider their options. Most said they would like to attend the school, where students are accepted based on a variety of criteria.
“I think it will be good for my career,” said Michael Arthur, 12, a seventh-grader at Pennsbury’s William Penn Middle School.
Many studies suggest that, too, according to the Association for Career and Technical Education.
The studies show that technical education graduates are 10 percent to 15 percent more likely to be in the labor force than are their peers from traditional high schools who don’t go on to college, according to ACTE. In addition, the tech graduates earn 8 percent to 9 percent more than academic program graduates, according to the association dedicated to providing students with the education needed to have successful careers.
BCTHS, one of 14 comprehensive technical high schools in the state, does not keep track of how many summer exploration students ultimately end up at the tech school, Ody said.
However, he knows quite a few have over the years, including 2008 graduate Brian Knecht, who recently won a silver medal in the welding division of the national SkillsUSA competition.
“Some of our best students are those who participate in the summer program. It turns them on [to a career path],” the administrator said.
Borough Council Meeting Tonight
Reminder of borough council meeting tonight. There's a referendum proposed to raise the millage supporting the Morrisville Ambulance Squad funding.
GOVERNMENT
Morrisville Council: 7:30 p.m., borough hall, 35 Union St. Agenda: public comment; regular reports; consider traffic ordinance amending Chapter 435 of the code of ordinances for vehicles and traffic; consider amendment to zoning ordinance for sign regulations; consider resolution to place a referendum on the Nov. 4 ballot to approve a millage increase in the EMS fund to support the Morrisville Ambulance Squad; consider advertising a public hearing for Aug. 12 on the use of the CDBG funds; consider two 3-year appointments to the Morrisville economic development corporation. 215-295-8181
___________________________________
Possible referendum in November for Morrisville voters
Posted in News on Sunday, July 20th, 2008 at 6:47 pm by Courier Times staff writer Danny Adler
MORRISVILLE — Voters in Morrisville may get their say on a millage increase to bulk up the borough’s EMS fund and support the Morrisville Ambulance Squad.
A resolution to place a referendum on the Nov. 4 ballot will be considered at Monday night’s council meeting, scheduled for 7:30 p.m. at borough hall, 35 Union St.
The referendum will ask voters whether they want the borough to increase the EMS fund to 2 mills, which is 1.5 mills more than permitted by the borough code without being approved through a successful referendum, officials have said.
GOVERNMENT
Morrisville Council: 7:30 p.m., borough hall, 35 Union St. Agenda: public comment; regular reports; consider traffic ordinance amending Chapter 435 of the code of ordinances for vehicles and traffic; consider amendment to zoning ordinance for sign regulations; consider resolution to place a referendum on the Nov. 4 ballot to approve a millage increase in the EMS fund to support the Morrisville Ambulance Squad; consider advertising a public hearing for Aug. 12 on the use of the CDBG funds; consider two 3-year appointments to the Morrisville economic development corporation. 215-295-8181
___________________________________
Possible referendum in November for Morrisville voters
Posted in News on Sunday, July 20th, 2008 at 6:47 pm by Courier Times staff writer Danny Adler
MORRISVILLE — Voters in Morrisville may get their say on a millage increase to bulk up the borough’s EMS fund and support the Morrisville Ambulance Squad.
A resolution to place a referendum on the Nov. 4 ballot will be considered at Monday night’s council meeting, scheduled for 7:30 p.m. at borough hall, 35 Union St.
The referendum will ask voters whether they want the borough to increase the EMS fund to 2 mills, which is 1.5 mills more than permitted by the borough code without being approved through a successful referendum, officials have said.
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Farm Update?
I received this comment. It did not have a lot of detail but I approved it. Does anyone have more information?
Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "Math Wars":
I heard Johnson and Johnson has been contacted! We need three years worth of band-aids,til we can farm out the kids!
Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "Math Wars":
I heard Johnson and Johnson has been contacted! We need three years worth of band-aids,til we can farm out the kids!
Jazz Fest at Willimason Park Today
Thanks to the emailer who wanted to remind us all about the Jazz Fest THIS AFTERNOON from 3-8 at Williamson Park.
Come on out and join the fun!
Annual jazz festival arrives in Morrisville
Friday, July 18, 2008
The fifth annual Morrisville Jazz Festival will take place 3 to 9 p.m. Sunday at Williamson Park on Route 32 in Morrisville, Pa.
The lineup will feature Ella Ganht, the Donna Antonow Trio, the Arpeggio Jazz Ensemble, Eric Mintel and the Midnight Sun Orchestra.
The Philadelphia-based Ganht is a singer and multi-instrumentalist who has been performing professionally since she was a teen. Among other things, she is vocalist for the Philadelphia Legends of Jazz Orchestra, which is directed by her husband, Leon Mitchell. Ganht's debut CD is "Immaculate Union."
The Arpeggio Jazz Ensemble has been playing around Philadelphia since its formation in 1979. It was founded by Warren Oree, an acoustic bassist, producer and composer who continued to lead the band in the late 1990s.
The group embraces a variety of acoustic and electric jazz styles -- often combining them with African and Middle Eastern music -- and has dabbled a bit in R&B.
New Jersey native Antonow began playing the piano at an early age and cites such influences as Bill Evans, Wynton Kelly, Jimmy Rowles and Red Garland.
She studied voice with Dita Delman, of the New York City Opera and, while studying at William Paterson College, played with such notables as drummer Carl Allen, and saxophonist Bill Evans. She notes Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder and Donnie Hathaway as vocal influences.
Local pianist Mintel formed the Eric Mintel Quartet in 1993 to perform original jazz compositions and new interpretations of the American song book.
Also a composer of orchestral music, Mintel performed his composition "Millennium Suite" for jazz quartet and orchestra with the Riverside Symphonia.
The quartet's most recent CD is "Times Change," which among other things includes interpretations of compositions made popular by famed pianist Dave Brubeck.
The Midnight Sun Orchestra is a 17-piece local band that plays monthly at the Havana nightclub in New Hope, Pa.
The festival is free.
In advance of the festival, there will be a concert 6 p.m. tomorrow by the Monday Blues Band, a 16-piece orchestra that specializes in big band music.
For information, call (215) 295-8181.
Come on out and join the fun!
Annual jazz festival arrives in Morrisville
Friday, July 18, 2008
The fifth annual Morrisville Jazz Festival will take place 3 to 9 p.m. Sunday at Williamson Park on Route 32 in Morrisville, Pa.
The lineup will feature Ella Ganht, the Donna Antonow Trio, the Arpeggio Jazz Ensemble, Eric Mintel and the Midnight Sun Orchestra.
The Philadelphia-based Ganht is a singer and multi-instrumentalist who has been performing professionally since she was a teen. Among other things, she is vocalist for the Philadelphia Legends of Jazz Orchestra, which is directed by her husband, Leon Mitchell. Ganht's debut CD is "Immaculate Union."
The Arpeggio Jazz Ensemble has been playing around Philadelphia since its formation in 1979. It was founded by Warren Oree, an acoustic bassist, producer and composer who continued to lead the band in the late 1990s.
The group embraces a variety of acoustic and electric jazz styles -- often combining them with African and Middle Eastern music -- and has dabbled a bit in R&B.
New Jersey native Antonow began playing the piano at an early age and cites such influences as Bill Evans, Wynton Kelly, Jimmy Rowles and Red Garland.
She studied voice with Dita Delman, of the New York City Opera and, while studying at William Paterson College, played with such notables as drummer Carl Allen, and saxophonist Bill Evans. She notes Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder and Donnie Hathaway as vocal influences.
Local pianist Mintel formed the Eric Mintel Quartet in 1993 to perform original jazz compositions and new interpretations of the American song book.
Also a composer of orchestral music, Mintel performed his composition "Millennium Suite" for jazz quartet and orchestra with the Riverside Symphonia.
The quartet's most recent CD is "Times Change," which among other things includes interpretations of compositions made popular by famed pianist Dave Brubeck.
The Midnight Sun Orchestra is a 17-piece local band that plays monthly at the Havana nightclub in New Hope, Pa.
The festival is free.
In advance of the festival, there will be a concert 6 p.m. tomorrow by the Monday Blues Band, a 16-piece orchestra that specializes in big band music.
For information, call (215) 295-8181.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)