Calling Newark-Teen Girls -Apply NOW-June Deadline

From the Sadie Nash Leadership Project

Last Chance: Apply for Newark Summer Institute ONLINE Last Chance!

Apply Online: Apply now for Newark Summer Institute 2009

Please help spread the word to your youth contacts about this great opportunity. The application date has been extended to June!
www.sadienash.org or 718.422.8664

SADIE NASH LEADERSHIP PROJECT
Frequently Asked Question

What do we do? SNLP is a unique educational leadership program that is made up of young women ages 14-21 in New York City and Newark, NJ. We are currently recruiting for our Summer Leadership Institute for 2009. SNLP gives you a chance to meet amazing peers and accomplished leaders (like filmmakers, activists, scientists, artists, writers); to take fun exciting courses (about things like human rights, creative writing, medicine, sociology, the environment); and to develop your unique way of leading with your peers and with our support. SNLP is about you, run by you and for you, as a leader and as a young woman.

Why do we do it? The Sadie Nash Leadership Project is designed to guide you through a process in which you come to understand the importance of your life experiences, and how these experiences can be applied to taking action and making change. We believe you, as a young woman in high school, have the ability to change the world, now and in your future. The Sadie Nash Leadership Project is your opportunity to take some time and look at your own leadership, your potential leadership, and the leadership of the women around you.

How does it work? The Sadie Nash Leadership Project requires an initial commitment of six weeks. The summer program lasts for six weeks from July 6th – August 14th, Monday through Friday from 10am until 4pm (on Fridays, we have special events and the hours are different). The summer program will be located in downtown Newark (we hope on the Rutgers Newark campus where it was located last year) which is accessible by bus and train. There will be required pre-session orientation meetings in early June to prepare you for the summer, and to provide an opportunity to meet the staff and to get to know each other. During the summer you and your peers will take classes, meet women involved in different forms of leadership, take workshops on issues that are important to you, and explore your own and others' leadership. The program is FREE, and in fact you will receive a weekly stipend to attend.

What is the stipend? To help you cover your expenses (food and transportation) during the summer you will receive a stipend during the program for everyday you attend. You only receive the stipend when you are at the program because it covers those two direct costs that come with attendance

June Celebrations- Juneteenth-June 19

What is Juneteenth?

Juneteenth is the oldest known celebration commemorating the ending of slavery in the United States. Dating back to 1865, it was on June 19th that the Union soldiers, led by Major General Gordon Granger, landed at Galveston, Texas with news that the war had ended and that the enslaved were now free. Note that this was two and a half years after President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation - which had become official January 1, 1863. The Emancipation Proclamation had little impact on the Texans due to the minimal number of Union troops to enforce the new Executive order. However, with the surrender of General Lee in April of 1865, and the arrival of General Granger’s regiment, the forces were finally strong enough to influence and overcome the resistance
Source-http://www.juneteenth.com/history.htm

For more information see http://www.juneteenth.com/welcome.htm
For the location of celebrations near you see http://www.juneteenth.com/worldwide.htm

And check out these books from the library:
Juv. 323.263.B816j Juneteenth: Freedom day by Muriel Miller Branch

Juv. 973.7.C321u Underground Railroad for Kids: from slavery to freedom with 21 activities by Mary Kay Carson

Also see these sites for lesson plans:

Celebrate Juneteenth http://www.readwritethink.org/calendar/calendar_day.asp?id=547

Juneteenth Wordsearch http://www.teachervision.fen.com/black-history-month/printable/37370.html

Celebrating Juneteenth in Texas http://tides.sfasu.edu/Teachers/Tides/docs/LessonPlans/Elementary/socialPlans/WardenJuneteenth.html

Roads to Freedom http://www.slaveryinamerica.org/history/hs_lp_roadstofreedom.htm

Before, During, and After the Emancipation Proclamation Lesson Plan: A Slave's View
http://www.slaveryinamerica.org/history/hs_lp_rtf-emancipation.htm

See http://educationservicesnews.blogspot.com/2011/06/juneeteenth-in-new-jersey.html
 for 2011 New Jersey events

Support NJ Public Libraries-YOU DID IT!

New Jersey Public Libraries face drastic cuts, please read below

From the New Jersey Library Association:

1. LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
As you know, Senator Brian Stack (D-Hudson and mayor Union City) has introduced
S. 2775 which would reduce the minimum funding for municipal libraries to 1/6 mil from 1/3 mil of the equalized valuation of the real property. This is very devastating legislation.

NJLA ( New Jersey Library Association, http://www.njla.org/) activated its legislative alert system through Capwiz ( a service which allows you to send a message directly to your state senator).

The alert is at:
http://capwiz.com/ala/nj/issues/alert/?alertid=13301621&PROCESS=Take+Action

So far approximately 1900 messages have been sent but we still need more. If you have not sent your message please do so today.

We urge you to also forward this message other library supporters.. Many of you have Facebook pages so please forward this to your contacts.

If you have had a response from your local Senator to your email, please let me know. For example, Senator Marcia Karrow has already said she would not support the bill. It is important that we know what the legislators are saying.

Senator Stack represents District 33. The two Assemblypersons in this District have now signed onto the A3753 ( the Assembly bill).They are Assemblyman Ruben Ramos and Assemblywoman Caridad Rodriguez. We don’t believe that the addition of these sponsors means that there is widespread support in the Assembly for this legislation.

The library community, however, must do everything it can to see that this bill does not more forward. Get involved. Attend the NJLA Public Policy Forum on June 5 ( see below).

Check out the njla.blog ( on the front of our website). On Friday, northjersey.com had an article entitled “Towns fill budget gaps with surplus library funds.” On Sunday, the Record also had an extremely supportive editorial against S2775.

2. STATE BUDGET
A message from the NJ State Librarian Norma Blake regarding the NJ State budget. “Last week the NJ State Library received from the Office of Management and Budget another directive to give suggestions as to where they can take an additional $1,606,000 from the library FY2010 budget, bringing our total projected cut to $3,564,000. The suggestions were very difficult to make. However, we have tried to spread the budget cuts across a number of areas of the library budget, including cuts to the State Library, to minimize the impact on any one program. There is no guarantee that the Office of Management and Budget who makes the cut will follow our suggestions or will allow us to make transfers among budget lines. I will write again as soon as OMB makes their final decision. We have every reason to believe, based on the revenue projects, that this may not be the last library budget cut FY2010. Sincerely, Norma E. Blake, State Librarian, New Jersey State Library.”

IMPORTANT LEGISLATIVE UPDATE FROM NJLA - YOU DID IT!

I am very happy to forward the message we received from JoAnne Serrano, president of the library board of Hoboken Library. JoAnne was contacted by Senator Stack’s office on Friday. They indicated he will “withdraw” S2775 as soon as possible.

This is absolutely wonderful news. We have removed the “capwiz” legislative alert from out website. Over 2200 messages were sent to legislators regarding S2775 through this site.

We also want to thank the NJ State Library which called public libraries to encourage them to contact their legislators regarding this bill.

This has been an outstanding advocacy effort by the entire library community. I particularly want to thank the library community of Hoboken who are represented by Senator Stack in District 33. The entire library board led by Board President Joanne Serrano, Library Director Lina Podles and the Friends of the Hoboken Library all contacted Senator Stack’s office and told them how detrimental this bill would be for the entire library community.

This demonstrates that local advocacy efforts coupled with electronic resources such as “capwiz” can make our library message known in Trenton.

We certainly hope this is the end of the efforts to reduce library funding to 1/6 mil. Assemblyman Prieto, sponsor of the bill (A3753) on the Assembly side, has told us he will not go forward with the legislation.

Ezra Jack Keats Snowy Day stamp in 2012?-How you can help

THE SNOWY DAY by Ezra Jack Keats 50th Anniversary in 2012

Help Create a U.S. Postage Stamp to Celebrate!

From the Ezra Jack Keats Foundation:

The U.S. Postage Stamp Citizen's Advisory Committee, the group that decides what subjects are chosen for our country's commemorative postage stamps, is considering
celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the publishing of THE SNOWY DAY by Ezra Jack Keats. This book is not just an American classic beloved by generations of children and parents around the world; it is also the book that broke the color barrier in mainstream American children's book publishing.


It takes three years for the subject of a postage stamp to be considered, accepted
and developed. The fiftieth anniversary of THE SNOWY DAY is in 2012. Help us gather
signatures to send to the Citizen's Advisory Committee to let them know how welcome
this stamp would be to families and educators across the country. Help us show the world that Ezra's character Peter, playing in the snow, a character they recognize and treasure, is as valued here as it is abroad.


To support the creation of THE SNOWY DAY 50th Anniversary Commemorative Stamp visit
the website of the Ezra Jack Keats Foundation(http://www.blogger.com/www.ezra-jack-keats.org)and add your name to the Support the Stamp list. Tell your friends, your students, your teachers and your parents to add their names to our petition. Names will not be used for any other reason than for THE SNOWY DAY Stamp Petition, nor will they be shared or sold to any other entity. Help make 2012 a celebration of American children in all their diversity!


The Ezra Jack Keats Foundation funds literacy and arts programming in public schools,
public libraries, parks, museums and universities across the country to enhance the joy of learning and teaching for all generations of learners.


Ezra Jack Keats Foundation
450 14th Street
Brooklyn, New York 11215
718-965-1266

Virtual manipulatives

Math Instructor's Alert!

Do you need manipulatives for mathematics instruction?

Here is a fun site for students:
National Library of Virtual manipulatives- Utah State University
http://nlvm.usu.edu/en/nav/vlibrary.html

Griot & Oral tradition in Africa Film Series 5/29-5/31/09

TC African Diaspora Cine Club
Teachers College, Columbia University
525 West 120th Street - Room 273A Grace Dodge
Train 1 to 116th Street - Walk up four blocks or
Bus M4, M60 or M104 to 120th Street

Photo ID required to enter building

WHAT: FREE Friday screenings and discussions on films from Africa and the African Diaspora. Refreshments will be served.

UPCOMING SCREENING: Friday, May 29, 2009 at 6:00PM

The African continent is a reservoir of traditions, talent and creativity. Griots & Oral Tradition in Africa, one of the most important traditions in Africa: The art of story telling. Great Malian writer and ethnologist Amadou Hampate Ba said "in Africa, when an old man dies, is a library that burns ("En Afrique, quand un viellard meurt, c'est une bibliotehque qui brule"- Unesco 1960). The selection of films in this series is built around that African tradition.


SOTIGUI KOUYATE:
A MODERN GRIOT


by Mahamat-Saleh Haroun, 58min, 1996, Chad/France, documentary, French with English subtitles.


Through testimonies by Peter Brook, Jean-Claude Carriere, Jean-Pierre Guigane, and Sotigui Kouyate himself, Sotigui Kouyate: A Modern Griot dresses the portrait of one of Africa's greatest actor now based in Paris. From Africa to Europe, the film unveils the multiple facets of Sotigui Kouyate, actor, musician and modern.

GRIOTS & ORAL TRADITION IN AFRICA
with Special Event Screening: Discussion & Cocktails
Saturday, May 29 - Sunday, May 31, 2009

at Teachers College, Columbia University 525 West 120th Street

Fri, May 29-273A Grace Dodge FREE Screening
Sat, May 30 273A Grace Dodge (6:00PM Special Event Screening $12 General Admission)
Sat, May 30 273A Grace Dodge
Sun, May 31- 273A Grace Dodge



Griot & Oral Tradition in Africa Film Series Program
is a selection of films that delves into the life and culture of the Griot a.k.a story teller. This films series feature Professor Oyeronke Oyewumi, an award-winning author of "The Invention of Women: Making an African Sense of Western Gender Discourses." Professor Oyewumi, born in Nigeria, has garnered a number of research fellowships including, Rockefeller Fellowships, a Presidential Fellowship, and a Ford Foundation grant.

The African Diaspora Film Festival, The Office of the President, Diversity and Community Affairs and the Center for African Education at Teachers College, Columbia University invite you to ADFFs Griot & Oral Tradition in Africa Film Series Program featuring films from Tanzania, Belgium, Chad and Senegal. Come discover the world of The Griot, Friday, May 29 through Sunday, May 31, 2009 at Teachers College, Columbia University. All films are in English or with English subtitles.

Saturday, May 30 2:00PM in Room 273A Grace Dodge


NAMES LIVE NOWHERE
by Dominique Loreau, 76 min, 1994, Belgium, docu-drama in French with English subtitles
Official Selection, African Diaspora Film Festival 1996.

In this film, whose title is a Senegalese proverb, a griot (storyteller) traveling from Dakar to Brussels weaves a tale about African expatriates and offers a candid look at the life of African immigrants in Belgium. With Sotigui-Kouyate - a real life griot - as the story teller.

Saturday, May 30 @ 4:00PM
Sunday, May 31 @ 4:00PM
in Room 273A Grace Dodge


AS OLD AS MY TONGUE
by Andy Jones, 90mins, 2006, Tanzania/UK, documentary in English and Swahili with English subtitles.

An intimate portrait of legendary singer Bi Kidude, probably the oldest singer on the world stage today. A strong woman with a defiant personality that challenges the perception one has about women's behavior in Muslim oriented societies.

Screenings on
Saturday, May 30 @ 4pm and
Sunday, May 31 @ 4pm.

Saturday, May 30@ 6:00PM Special Event $12 Gen Admission


YANDE CODOU, THE GRIOT OF SENGHOR
by Angele Diabang Brener, 52 min, 2008, Senegal

Yande Codou Sene (80 years old) is one of the last great singers of polyphonic Serere poetry. This film is an intimate look at a diva who has lived through the history of Senegal at the side of one his greatest near-mythical figures, President-poet Leopold Sedar Senghor. Saturday, May 30 @ 6pm and Sunday, May 31 @ 6pm. Saturday screening followed by discussion with Professor Oyeronke Oyewumi, author of award-winning book The Invention of Women: Making an African Sense of Western Gender Discourses and cocktail.
Sunday, May 31 2:00PM in Room 179 Grace Dodge


SIA, THE MYTH OF THE PYTHON
Special Prize of the Jury: FESPACO 2001, Official Selection Cannes 2001.
by Dani Kouyate, 96mins, 2001, Burkina Faso/France, Epic Drama, Bambara with English subtitles.

Kombi is a poverty-stricken city dominated by a tyrant king. In order to bring back prosperity, the king is advised by his priests to make the traditional human sacrifice of a young virgin to a mystical snake god. Sia, the most beautiful young woman of the village, has been designated. Lieutenant Mamadi, her fiancé, rebels against the decision to perform this ritual and the village becomes divided. Struggles and revelations follow as the characters confront issues of honor, corruption and power.

"A delightful, pointed fable of religious and political extremism that's extra-relevant at present" - Dennis Harvey-VARIETY
Sunday, May 31

AS OLD AS MY TONGUE
See Satruday May 30 @ 4PM screening
Tickets:
Teachers College Students, Faculty and Staff: Free with valid TC ID

Friday, May 29 -6pm FREE Screening

Saturday, May 30 6pm Special Event Screening $12 general admission,
$10 for students & seniors
All other screenings $9 general admission, $7 students & seniors.

Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to contact OASID at oasid@tc.edu , (212) 678-3689, (212) 678-3853 TTY, (212) 678-3854 video phone, as early as possible to request reasonable accommodations, such as ASL interpreters, alternate format materials, and a campus map of accessible features.

Info: (212) 864-1760

Ten Most Challenged Books in 2008

The Office of Intellectual Freedom (OIF) of the American Library Association has released:

The 10 most challenged books of 2008

And Tango Makes Three, by Justin Richardson and Peter Parnell (Juv.R523a)
Reasons: anti-ethnic, anti-family, homosexuality, religious viewpoint, unsuited to age group

His Dark Materials trilogy, by Philip Pullman(Juv. P982)
Reasons: political viewpoint, religious viewpoint, violence

TTYL; TTFN; L8R, G8R (series), by Lauren Myracle (Juv.M9975)
Reasons: offensive language, sexually explicit, unsuited to age group

Scary Stories (series), by Alvin Schwartz (Juv.398.4 .S399S)
Reasons: occult/satanism, religious viewpoint, violence

Bless Me, Ultima, by Rudolfo Anaya (Juv.PS3551.N27 B6)
Reasons: occult/satanism, offensive language, religious viewpoint, sexually explicit, violence

The Perks of Being a Wallflower, by Stephen Chbosky (Juv.C513p)
Reasons: drugs, homosexuality, nudity, offensive language, sexually explicit, suicide, unsuited to age group

Gossip Girl (series), by Cecily von Ziegesar (Juv..V9489w)
Reasons: offensive language, sexually explicit, unsuited to age group

Uncle Bobby's Wedding, by Sarah S. Brannen (Juv.B8217u)
Reasons: homosexuality, unsuited to age group

The Kite Runner, by Khaled Hosseini (PS3608 .O832 K58 2005)
Reasons: offensive language, sexually explicit, unsuited to age group

Flashcards of My Life, by Charise Mericle Harper (Juv.H2934f)
Reasons: sexually explicit, unsuited to age group


The most frequently challenged authors of 2008
Peter Parnell and Justin Richardson (Juv.R523)
Philip Pullman (Juv.P982)
Lauren Myracle (Juv.M9975)
Jim Pipe
Alvin Schwartz
Chris Crutcher (Juv.C957)
Phyllis Reynolds Naylor (Juv.N333)
Rudolfo Anaya (PS3551.N27, Juv.923.31 .C512A)
Stephen Chbosky (Juv.C513p)
Cecily Von Ziegesar (Juv.V9489w)

Check OSCAR, the Online catalog for works by these authors!

Transformations Journal is seeking submissions

The peer reviewed journal, Transformations:The Journal of Inclusive Scholarship and Pedagogy is seeking submissions.

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS FOR A SPECIAL ISSUE -TEACHING NATION
Guest Editor: Edward Ramsamy

The editors of Transformations seek articles (5,000 – 10,000 words), media reviews (books, film, video, performance, art, music, etc. – 3,000 to 5,000 words), and photo-essays that explore nation in a variety of pedagogical contexts and from all disciplinary and interdisciplinary perspectives.

Topics might include:
• Defining, defending, crossing national borders;
• Conceptualizing and contesting ideas of nation in the classroom;
• Courses on Im/migration and/or emigration;
• Pedagogical approaches to nation, identity, citizenship, and language;
• Globalization, economics and labor;
• Diaspora, transnationalism, exile;
• Nations, states, nation-states;
• Colonialism, post-colonialism and nation;
• Nation and communities;
• Nation, race-ethnicity, religion, class, gender, and sexuality;
• National conflict and cooperation;
• Nationalism, patriotism, xenophobia in the classroom;
• Articulating and representing cultural identities;
• Teaching indigeneity and sovereignty.

Deadline: June 30th, 2009

Transformations: The Journal of Inclusive Scholarship and Pedagogy is a peer-reviewed interdisciplinary forum for pedagogical scholarship exploring intersections of identities, power, and social justice.

The journal features a range of approaches — from theoretical articles to creative and experimental accounts of pedagogical innovations from teachers and scholars from all areas of education.

Send submissions or inquiries in MLA format (6th ed.) as attachments in MS Word or Rich Text format to: Jacqueline Ellis and Edvige Giunta, Editors, transformations@njcu.edu.

OR
send a hard copy to Transformations, New Jersey City University, Hepburn Hall Room 309, 2039 Kennedy Boulevard, Jersey City, NJ 07305. Author(s) name and contact information should be included on a SEPARATE page. For submission guidelines go to: www.njcu.edu/assoc/transformations.

Published semi-annually by New Jersey City University

Teacher jobs and job sites

Job-seeker Links
From NJEA (New Jersey Education Association) links
http://www.njea.org/page.aspx?a=2054

From NJCU (New Jersey City University)
http://web.njcu.edu/sites/nptnj/Content/guide_for_job_searchjob_fair.asp

NJ.COM- Newspaper classified advertisements
http://www.nj.com/jobs/

School Spring
http://www.schoolspring.com/find/new_jersey_teaching_jobs_in_new_jersey.cfm

Chat with YA author Susan Beth Pfeffer tonight!

Join One Book New Jersey at 7:30 tonight for a discussion Life as We Knew It with award-winning author Susan Beth Pfeffer!

Life as We Knew It is the teen selection of OBNJ this year, as voted on by the public. It was also recently awarded as winner of the Garden State Teen Book Award (Grade 6-8 category), as voted on by teen readers across New Jersey.

Logging into the chat is free and easy and all are welcome. Go to www.bccls.org/OBNJ anytime between 7:30 and 8:30 tonight to join us!

For more information, go to www.onebooknewjersey.org/young-adult!


More info:
Life as We Knew It
by Susan Beth Pfeffer
ISBN: 9780152061548
Proceeds from orders through Amazon support NJLA.

When an asteroid hits the moon, it causes a change in the moon's orbit and unleashes a series of world-wide disasters, including tsunamis, earthquakes and erupting volcanoes. This story is told from the perspective of Miranda, a sixteen-year-old girl in living in a rural Northeastern Pennsylvania town. In one night everything changes; even though she is far enough away from the major destruction, her life will never be the same. Gone are the everyday routines of school, crushes, and friendships. Instead, Miranda needs to worry about food, sickness, and taking care of her family, while trying to deal with overwhelming fear. Through her journal, Miranda is free to express her worries, desires, and hope.

Susan Beth Pfeffer is an award-winning author who has received much acclaim, including for her work on a series for younger readers, Portraits of Little Women, and the recognition of A Year Without Michael as an ALA Best Book for Young Adults. To date she has had 75 books published, her most recent work being the dead & the gone, the companion novel to Life as We Knew It. The author says she decided to be a writer when she was in first grade, and her first book, Just Morgan, was published in 1970. Ms. Pfeffer was born in New York City and today lives in Wallkill, NY.

FREE COMIC BOOK DAY-May 2nd

Saturday, May 2nd is Free Comic Book Day!
Check for participating stores near you at the
Free Comic Bok Day website
http://www.freecomicbookday.com
Just enter your zip code to get a list of stores and check for signings by comic book artists!

Neil Gaiman, Shaun Tan and Mariken Jongman-NYC- 4/30/09

April 30, 2009
Leaps and Bounds, Fits and Starts: The Evolution of a Children’s Book Writer
Thursday, 6:30-8:00pm
With Neil Gaiman, Mariken Jongman, and Shaun Tan; moderated by Andrea Davis Pinkney.

Picture books! Novels! Graphic Novels! And more! Authors and their works develop in distinctive ways. Some ideas and books are nurtured for years while others have a eureka moment. Join children's book authors Neil Gaiman, Mariken Jongman, and Shaun Tan for a discussion about the ever-evolving landscape of children's and young adult literature with Scholastic Executive Editor Andrea Davis Pinkney.

Where:
Scholastic Auditorium
557 Broadway
New York, NY 10012
212.343.6100
R/W to Prince Street
B/D/F/V to Broadway-Lafayette

Free and open to the public
Presented by PEN's Children's Book Committee and Scholastic

http://www.pen.org/viewmedia.php/prmMID/3213/prmID/1376

Earth Day Research Project

In honor of Earth Day, a quick but illuminating interdisciplinary research project for grades 9-12 reflecting

NJCCS (New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards)
STANDARD 5.10 (ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES) ALL STUDENTS WILL DEVELOP AN UNDERSTANDING OF THE ENVIRONMENT AS A SYSTEM OF INTERDEPENDENT COMPONENTS AFFECTED BY HUMAN ACTIVITY AND NATURAL PHENOMENA.

B. Human Interactions and Impact
Assess the impact of human activities on the cycling of matter and the flow of energy through ecosystems.
Use scientific, economic, and other data to assess environmental risks and benefits associated with societal activity.


Background

Research the industrial history of Jersey City in the following library books and websites:
F144 .J543 G33 2007 2007
Jersey City : a monumental history

F144 .J5 J47 1910a 1996
Jersey City of to-day, Hudson County, New Jersey, America : its history, people, trades, commerce, institutions & industries

F144 .J5 J47 1910a 1996
Jersey City of to-day, Hudson County, New Jersey, America : its history, people, trades, commerce, institutions & industries

Jersey city Online
http://www.jerseycityonline.com/history/jc_history.htm

Jersey City History-Past and Present
http://www.njcu.edu/programs/jchistory/

New Jersey Department of Environmental Chromium Map
http://www.state.nj.us/dep/dsr/chromium/map.htm

Jersey City Now
Students can view the following videos




Research
Note some of the main points of the videos
View the videos again and note some of the visuals that accompanied the main points
Note what emotions the visuals tried to elicit, if any.

Research the terms "chromium" and "Jersey City" in several periodical (newspaper)
databases such as Lexis Nexis or Academic Search premier.

Are your sources authoritative?
Does your research confirm the main points of the video

Discuss your findings with the class

What conclusions can you make, if any?

Follow Up
If you are concerned about industrial pollution, what actions can be taken?
Contact your representatives
Do more research
Contact environmental organizations

School Board Elections-April 21, 2009-VOTE!

Don't forget to vote in the School Board Elections held on Tuesday, April 21, 2009 in New Jersey!

Jersey City Residents can find information on candidates here:

The Powerhouse Arts District site
http://www.padnajc.org/
has questionnaire responses for the majority of candidates

School Board Panel Debate report
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/wires/2009/04/10/school-board-candidates-i_ws_185608.html

Talking Politics- JC Board of Ed Candidates
Click on JC Board of Ed Candidates to watch video interviews with 4 of the 12 candidates
http://www.channel125.com/tp12.htm

Jersey City Independent
Interview with 3 of the 12 candidates
http://www.jerseycityindependent.com/2009/04/10/meet-the-school-board-candidates-william-derosa-moshe-rozenblit-and-tom-wilen/

Coverage of panel
http://www.jerseycityindependent.com/2009/04/10/school-board-candidates-introduce-themselves-at-community-forums/


Candidate websites:
Three of the candidates have a website with their biographies,mission and other information
http://www.jceen.org/

Interesting online Education Grant Database

While browsing for information, this site popped up. It is a compendium of grants for teachers, students and other educators, started by two individuals in 1996 with backgrounds in education and grantsmanship.

Take a look and see if it is helpful:
GrantsAlert.com http://www.grantsalert.com/resources.cfm

Please leave a comment if you find it useful, or if you have problems with it.

New Jersey Library Association Conference Programs of interest to educators

See http://njla.pbwiki.com/Conference+2009


Friday, April 3rd is the last day for Early Bird Registration for the NJLA Conference!!!


Sign up now and save on your chance to go to these great programs of interest to Educators and faculty



Tuesday, April 28, 2009

9-9:50

What’s the Big Idea? Math & Science Programs

Learn to incorporate science in math concepts in all your interactions with children, use picture books and investigations to promote conversations, language skills and higher-order thinking. Engage children in hands-on investigations that help them explore math, science and literacy skills and concepts.

Michelle Willis, Scotch Plains Public Library, Vicky Kulikowski, Somerset County Library, Hillsborough Branch, Sharon Rawlins, NJ State Library and Allison Santos, Princeton Public Library



11-11:50

New Books for Tweens and Teens

Discover the best of the new books for tweens and teens presented by this expert in literature for young people.

Teri Lesesne, Professor at Sam Houston State University; Moderator: Susan Fichtelberg, Woodbridge Public Library



1:30-2:20

The State of Publishing LGBTI-Themed Picture Books Today

It is has been twenty years since the groundbreaking publication of Lesléa Newman's Heather Has Two Mommies. What is the market like today for children’s books with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or intersex-related themes? This broad question will be explored from the lens of an editor/publisher and from an author whose first picture book was published in 2008.

Sarah S. Brannen, author of Uncle Bobby's Wedding and The ABC Book of American Homes; Bobbie Combs, co-founder of Two Lives Publishing, editor and author of A, B, C: A Family Alphabet Book and 1,2,3: A Family Counting Book



3:30-4:20

Paired Reading Lists

Matching fiction and non-fiction titles with core curriculum requirements enhances children's learning experiences and leads them to literature they might not otherwise discover. View fiction and non-fiction titles that work well together and tie into curriculum units and learn tips for providing this service for your students and teachers.

Susan Fichtelberg, Woodbridge Public Library; Pat Vasilik, Clifton Public Library



4:30-5:20

A Visit with Children's Author, Lenore Look

Lenore Look, author of picture books like Uncle Peter's Chinese Wedding and transitional chapter books including Ruby Lu, Brave and True, an ALA Notable Book, and Alvin Ho, will discuss her work featuring Asian-American characters.



Wednesday, April 29,2009

9-9:50

Picture This: Art Exploration for Kids

Looking for ideas for art-based programming for this year's Summer Reading Program? Our speaker will share ideas from a program that merges literature, art, and creativity, and will present program plans for everything from prehistoric cave paintings to Pointillism, Cubism to Chagall, Escher, O'Keefe, Matisse, and many more. This program is suitable for both public libraries and school settings.

Carol Simon Levin, Somerset County Library/Bridgewater Branch



11:30-12:20

Summer Reading Committee Presents Floyd Cooper, Illustrator

The theme for the upcoming Summer Reading program is “the Arts” and the 2009 Summer Reading Committee would like to inspire you with artistic ideas so you to can “Be Creative @ Your Library.” Join us for this expressive and dramatic presentation of art and illustration.

Floyd Cooper has won many awards, including the Coretta Scott King Honor for Brown Honey in Broomwheat Tea (1994), Meet Danitra Brown (1995), and I Have Heard of a Land (1999).



12:30-2:30

Garden State Book Awards Luncheon: John Green

Celebrate this year's winners of the Garden State Book Awards with award-winning and highly acclaimed YA author John Green. Green's debut novel, Looking for Alaska, received the 2006 Michael L. Printz Award, followed by a 2007 Printz Honor for An Abundance of Katherines. His latest novel, Paper Towns, has received multiple starred reviews. In addition to his writing accomplishments, John and his brother Hank have created a major following on YouTube with their vlogbrothers channel. Book signing to follow.



2:30-3:20

Serving the Homeschoolers

Public Libraries are serving an ever growing grassroots educational movement. This workshop will include the following: how we can best tap into this market, educating staff to serve this diverse population, and evaluating your libraries resources. In addition we will address how book discussion groups can be a valuable tool for this population and providing computer services and college prep information for the Homeschooling community.

Nancy Voiko, Ocean County Library



3:30-4:20

Welcoming Library Programs for the Special Needs Community and Their Families

Library personnel will learn how to develop and execute library programs that invite special needs children and typically developing children to participate together. This program is an outgrowth of the INFOLINK initiative "Welcoming Library Spaces for the Autism Community and their families." It is geared towards responding to the challenge of NJ residents whose children have been diagnosed on the autism spectrum and other high functioning children who are participating in inclusion programs in their public schools.

Carrie Banks, Supervisor, The Child's Place for Children with Special Needs/Kidsmobile, Brooklyn Public Library

Earth Hour- Tonight (Saturday 3/28/09) at 8:30PM

Celebrate Earth Hour tonight at 8:30PM by turning off your lights and appliances.
It is a worldwide celebration.
See details here:
http://www.earthhour.org/home/

As the website says: THIS SATURDAY 28 MARCH AT 8.30PM YOU CAN VOTE EARTH BY SWITCHING OFF YOUR LIGHTS FOR ONE HOUR - EARTH HOUR.

Curious about what's happening near you
See here for information about New York City
http://www.earthhourus.org/newyork/newyork.php

Triangle Shirtwaist Fire -Then and Now

Remembering the 98th Anniversary of the Triangle Fire*

On March 25, 1911, 146 young immigrant workers died in a tragic fire at the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory in New York’s Greenwich Village. Within minutes the fire spread to consume the building’s upper three stories. Firefighters who arrived at the scene were unable to rescue those workers trapped inside because the doors were locked and their ladders could not reach the factory floor. This tragedy galvanized a city to fight for labor reform and safety in the workplace.

In 2006, 99 NYC workers were killed on the job, one-third of them from a fall.

Today, unions are desperately fighting to prevent the senseless deaths of workers.

Join us as we honor those who were killed on the job and fight to prevent the killing of more workers in New York City.

WHEN
Friday, March 27, 2009 • 12 - 1:00 pm

WHERE
Corner of Washington Place & Greene Street—just east of Washington Square Park

* See this excellent online resource http://www.ilr.cornell.edu/trianglefire/

Uri Shulevitz Caldecott and Newbery winner speaks at Rutgers

Event: Exploring Picture Books

Speaker: Uri Shulevitz

Time: 2 pm, Sunday, March 29, 2009

Location: Zimmerli Art Museum, Rutgers University



Please join Caldecott- and Newbery-winning author and illustrator Uri Shulevitz as he discusses his award-winning book “How I Learned Geography.” The recently published book explores his childhood memories of World War II and the power of the imagination. Shulevitz will discuss the creation of this extraordinary book and the autobiographical story that lies behind it.



“Exploring Picture Books” is an ongoing series at the Zimmerli Art Museum, Rutgers University. See:

http://www.zimmerlimuseum.rutgers.edu/education/index.php?id=73

New Jersey Global Education Conference-4/4/09

New Jersey Global Educators
Ninth Annual Conference Announcement
“Future Directions”
April 4, 2009 - 9:30 AM to 2:00 PM
Brookdale Community College – Warner Student Life Center
765 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft, NJ 07738

Agenda
9:30 to 9:45 Registration

9:45 to 10:00 Welcome

10:00 to 10:50 Keynote Speaker: Lisa Solmose, Department of Education
- The Role of Global Education in Post-Secondary Institutions-

11:00 to 11:50 Academic Organizations in Global Education

12:00 to 12:50 Best Practices in Global Education

1:00 to 2:00 Lunch - Future Directions for Global Education in New Jersey

2:00 Distribution of Certificates*

The New Jersey Global Educators promote and enhance global and multicultural education in curriculum, professional development, research, and student program development in two and four year institutions of higher learning in the state of New Jersey.




--------------------------------------------------------------------------------



Conference Registration Form



Mail registration form and fees to Ellen J. Lindemann, NJGE Treasurer; Raritan Valley Community College; P.O. Box 3300; Somerville, NJ 08876. A $10.00 late registration fee will be applied for registration the day of the conference. Please make checks payable to Raritan Valley Community College. (Registration fee includes morning coffee & tea, afternoon lunch and 4 hours NJ PDH)



Conference Fee for (check one):

Non- Members: $75.00
(includes conference registration and a one year bonus free membership)

Members: $50.00 (members in good standing)

Students: $20.00


Name: _______________________________________

Address: _______________________________________

Institution: ____________________________________

Email Address: _________________________________



For more details, contact Katherine Tietge, NJGE Chair (ktietge@ocean.edu or 732-255-0400 x2272) or Janice Thomas, Chair NJGE Conference Committee (jthomas@brookdalecc.edu or 732-224-2799. Maps and Directions to Brookdale Community College: http://www.brookdale.cc.nj.us/pages/131.asp



*Four Professional Development Hours

Education Job Fair for NJCU students and alumni

2009 EDUCATION CAREER FAIR
April 2, 2009; 3:30-6:00 PM

The NJCU University Community is invited to attend the 9th annual NJCU Education Career Fair being held on Thursday, April 2, 2008 in the Multipurpose Room of the Gilligan Student Union Building. The time of the Fair is 3:30PM to 6:00PM.

The purpose of the Education Career Fair is to provide an opportunity for undergraduates and alumni to meet with recruiters, identify career opportunities and arrange employment interviews. ALL EDUCATION MAJORS AND ALTERNATE ROUTE CANDIDATES ARE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED TO ATTEND.

For further information contact:

Mike Moriarty mmoriarty@njcu.edu
The Frank Capone Career Development Center
Vodra Hall, Room 101
(201) 200-3571 or 3005

Young Adult Literature Events in NYC

Juvenalia Smackdown

Monday, 3/16, 4-6pm, Tompkins Square Park branch of the NYPL, 331 E. 10th Street

Join Holly Black, Cassandra Claire, Alaya Johnson, Justine Larbalestier, David Levithan, Diana Peterfreuend, Scott Westerfeld as they read some of their (ahem) less accomplished work from their middle school and high school years. Hosted by Libba Bray.


I Have Seen the Future…and It Sounds Like This
Wednesday, 3/18, Mulberry Street Branch of the NYPL, 10 Jersey St.6pm


Teen authors are notoriously stingy about reading from their works-in-progress. But for Guest of Honor Joe Monti, authors Libba Bray, Rachel Cohn, Eireann Corrigan, Justine Larbalestier, Barry Lyga, and Scott Westerfeld are willing to share a little bit from their future books. Hosted by David Levithan.

The Five-Borough Read
Thursday, 3/19

BROOKLYN: Central Library, Dweck Center, 10 Grand Army Plaza, Brooklyn
10-11am

Gayle Forman
Jenny Han
Leslie Margolis
Abby Sher
Matthue Roth
Robin Wasserman


BRONX: Bronx Library Center, 310 E. Kingsbridge Road, Bronx
4-5pm

Coe Booth
Madeleine George
Paul Griffin
Brian Sloan
Melissa Walker



MANHATTAN: Countee Cullen Branch, 104 W 136th St
4-5pm

Matt de la Pena
Daphne Grab
Mary Hogan
Barry Lyga
Carolyn McCormick


MANHATTAN: Jefferson Market Branch, 425 Avenue of the Americas

4-5pm

David Levithan
Bennett Madison
Lauren McLaughlin
Billy Merrell
Marie Rutkoski


MANHATTAN: Webster Branch, 1465 York Avenue
4-5pm

Lisa Ann Sandell
Courtney Sheinmel
Rachel Vail
Cecily Von Ziegesar
Martin Wilson


QUEENS: Far Rockaway Branch, 2002 Cornaga Ave, Queens 4-5pm

Tara Altebrando
Laura Dower
Heather Duffy-Stone
Aimee Friedman
Eliot Schrefer
Siobhan Vivian
Rita Williams-Garcia


STATEN ISLAND: St. George Library Center, 5 Central Avenue 4-5pm

Kate Brian
Judy Goldschmidt
Michael Northrop
Micol Ostow
Lynn Weingarten

Rock Out with TIGER BEAT!
Thursday, 3/19, 6pm at Books of Wonder


By day, Libba Bray, Daniel Ehrenhaft, Barney Miller, and Natalie Standiford are upstanding authors. But by night, they turn into … TIGER BEAT, the first ever YA author rock band. Tonight is their debut public performance … and it’s sure to go down in legend.


With opening act The Infinite Playlists (Rachel Cohn and David Levithan reading a litany of musical references, but mercifully not singing).


I Love You, New York: Teen Lit in the City

Friday, 3/20, 6pm, NYPL, 42nd Street, Court Room

Join authors Coe Booth, Paul Griffin, Maureen Johnson, David Levithan, Cecily von Ziegesar, and Rita Williams-Garcia in a spirited reading and discussion about teen novels set in New York City – from the glamour of the gossip girls to the grit of the Bronx projects, from the everyday battles of the high school halls to the extraordinary events of 9/11.



Stuff for the Teen Age Ceremony
Saturday, 3/21, 1pm, NYPL, 42nd Street, Celeste Bartos Forum

This new list only has the best of the best, and includes books, music, movies, and video games. Featuring a keynote by Walter Dean Myers



Teen Authors Celebrate Teen Readers
Sunday, 3/22, NYPL, 42nd Street, Trustees Room, 1pm

Over a dozen authors salute teen readers and teen advisory board members from around the city, including Blake Nelson, reading from his upcoming novel Destroy All Cars.


The Biggest Teen Author Signing EVER
Sunday, 3/22, Books of Wonder, 4pm

Join over 40 authors for a signing extravaganza as they take over Books of Wonder, sign books, and converse with fans new and old. An incredible event that is sure to go down in book-signing history.

Authors include:

Nora Baskin
Jessica Blank
Judy Blundell
Coe Booth
Elise Broach
Susanne Colasanti
Sarah Darer-Littman
Matt de la Pena
Heather Duffy-Stone
Daniel Ehrenhaft
Gayle Forman
Aimee Friedman
Madeleine George
Maureen Johnson
Kristen Kemp
Justine Larbalestier
David Levithan
E. Lockhart
Barry Lyga
Carolyn Mackler
Sarah MacLean
Megan McCafferty
Lauren McLaughlin
Neesha Meminger
Billy Merrell
Blake Nelson
Micol Ostow
Matthue Roth
Marie Rutkoski
Lisa Ann Sandell
Courtney Sheinmel
Abby Sher
Brian Sloan
Jennifer Smith
Rachel Vail
David Van Etten
Ned Vizzini
Adrienne Maria Vrettos
Cecily von Ziegesar
Melissa Walker
Robin Wasserman
Scott Westerfeld
Suzanne Weyn
Maryrose Wood
Lizabeth Zindel

Weiss Center events continue to teach and entertain

The M. Jerry Weiss Center for Children's and Young Adult Literature has continued to present author's of note to the NJCU community.

Eris Velasquez
On January 29,2009 author/illustrator Eric Velasquez appeared and gave an interesting and sometimes amusing presentation on his life as an artist. in the most touching part of the presentation, Velasquez, showed pictures of his visit to Puerto Rico. He visited all the places she knew growing up, and presented the pictures as a present to her before she passed away.

Readers of his book Grandma's Records enjoyed it immensely because he shared pictures of the places his grandmother knew and showed monuments to the musicians memorialized in the book. Velasquez, disclosed that he has also written a pre-quel to the book, but does not know precisely when it will be released. After the workshop, Velasquez, graciously visited the Congressman Frank J. Guarini Library and posed by the book display of his books.

Gregory Galloway
On February 26, 2009, ALEX Award winner Greg Galloway, presented an introduction to his writing career and read from his book, As Simple As Snow. Galloway also described how he developed a companion website http://assimpleassnow.com/ for readers of his book, Galloway's enigmatic book stimulated a lively discussion. Following that, a creative writing exercise demonstrated how the creative process can be stimulated with K-12 students.

Alex Simmons
On March 26, 2009, Alex Simmons, author of books, comic books and Kids'Comic.Con will appear. For information
contact Maureen McGuire, director of development, at mmcguire1@njcu.edu or call 201-200-3196.

Conference Opportunity for Education Students interested in Graduate Work

Third Annual Professional Development Conference for Undergraduate Seniors Interested in Graduate Training in Family and Child Sciences

September 25-27, 2009

Arizona State University

Tempe, AZ

The School of Social and Family Dynamics (http://www.asu.edu/ssfd) at Arizona State University is proud to host the third annual Professional Development Conference for Undergraduate Seniors Interested in Graduate Training in Family and Child Sciences.

This conference is designed to bring together eager and bright students to learn about the exciting changes and facets of research-oriented graduate training in family and child sciences. Undergraduate students from across the country who will be seniors next year and who plan to pursue doctoral graduate education in a discipline related to family and child sciences (child development, family studies, psychology, sociology, education, life sciences, etc.) will be brought together on campus for a weekend of discussions about preparation for graduate school, where the field is going, opportunities for interdisciplinary research and education, and general discussions with faculty and graduate students in the field.

This competitive conference will allow students to learn more about the profession, develop networks of faculty and students from across the country, and help prepare themselves for graduate school and beyond.

Students who are selected to attend will be provided with funding to pay for all travel-related expenses (airfare, local transportation, hotel, and meals). Students will attend interactive discussion sessions over the course of the 2 days of the conference. Opportunities for socializing and individual sessions will also be provided.

Conference website: http://www.asu.edu/ssfd/conf
On-line application: http://www.asu.edu/clas/ssfd/conf/register.html

Questions: feel free to contact us at study@familychildsciences.net.

Remove all Children's Books from Libraries?? No Way! Please make the call now!

Update:
The advocacy action phone calls and e-mails to the Commission have paid off. It has just been announced at ALA Council that early next week the Commission will put a hold on the issue of lead in books while they investigate the issue.

Can you imagine school, public, (and university) libraries having to remove all juvenile books for lead testing? Neither can we!

Please call Nancy Nord at (301) 504-7923 today and leave a message supporting the exclusion of children's books from lead testing. Follow the instructions below.

Background Information
The Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 has been interpreted to include books as a product that must be tested for lead.

While it is understandable that the CPSC must protect children from toxic materials, publishers have already tested the book components and found that the lead levels are lower than the regulations require three years from now. Additionally, all book recalls in the last two decades have been because of toys attached to the books that posed a choking hazard, not the books themselves.

Making these testing regulations retroactive would require both school and public libraries to take drastic steps to come into compliance. They either would have to ban children from their libraries or pull every book intended for children under the age of 12 from their bookshelves at the time children are fostering a lifelong love of learning and reading.

CALL CPSC Today

Even with her assurances, we must let the CPSC know how important an issue this is to libraries. Please call the Acting Commissioner, Nancy Nord, at (301) 504-7923. When you call this number, wait for the automated directory to give you directions to reach Nancy Nord’s office.

Explain to the Commission that:
1) it is simply impossible for libraries to remove all children’s books from the shelves and/or ban children under 12 from the library and still provide the level of service that is needed.

2) As always, thank you for all that they do. The only way we will be successful in ensuring that children will have access to safe books is with a strong grassroots effort.

3)In order to allow children and families to continue accessing critical library materials, please either exempt books from the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008, accept the component tests that have already been done, or exempt all books currently in school and public libraries. This will ensure that our children continue to have access to safe and educational library materials

4) Your comments to the CPSC need to be submitted as soon as possible, so please tell all your friends and family – we need as many people as possible to communicate that this oversight could have lasting ramifications on our children and our communities.



Thank you for your continued support of libraries!

This information was originally received from:
Kristin Murphy
Government Relations Specialist
American Library Association - Washington Office
1615 New Hampshire Avenue NW
Washington, D.C. 20009-2520
Phone Number: 202.628.8410
Fax: 202.628.8419
kmurphy@alawash.org

ALA Youth Media Awards

Watch the Video (a list of winners is below):





And the winners are:

Newbery Medal

"The Graveyard Book" (Juv.G966g) by Neil Gaiman, HarperCollins Children's Books

Newbery Honor Books

"The Underneath" by Kathi Appelt,(Juv.A646u) illustrated by David Small, Atheneum Books for Young Readers, an imprint of Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing

"The Surrender Tree: Poems of Cuba's Struggle for Freedom" by Margarita Engle, Henry Holt and Company, LLC

"Savvy"(Juv.L4153s)by Ingrid Law, Dial Books for Young Readers, a division of Penguin Young Readers Group in partnership with Walden Media, LLC

"After Tupac and D Foster" (Juv.W898a) by Jacqueline Woodson, G.P. Putnam's Sons, a division of Penguin Books for Young Readers

Caldecott Medal

"The House in the Night," illustrated by Beth Krommes and written by Susan Marie Swanson, Houghton Mifflin Co.

Caldecott Honor Books

"A Couple of Boys Have the Best Week Ever"(Juv.F8485c)by Marla Frazee, Harcourt, Inc.

"How I Learned Geography" by Uri Shulevitz,(Juv.S5622h) Farrar Straus Giroux

"A River of Words: The Story of William Carlos Williams,"(Juv.928.1W728b) illustrated by Melissa Sweet and written by Jen Bryant, Eerdmans Books for Young Readers, an imprint of Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co.

Michael L. Printz Award
Melina Marchetta, author of "Jellicoe Road,"(Juv.M317j) is the 2009 Printz Award winner. The book is published by HarperTeen, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers.

Printz Honor Books
"The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing, Traitor to the Nation, Volume II, The Kingdom on the Waves," (Juv.A5448 v.2) by M.T. Anderson, published by Candlewick Press;

"The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks,"(Juv.L8164d) by E. Lockhart, published by Hyperion Books for Children, an imprint of Disney Book Group;

"Nation," (Juv.P912n) by Terry Pratchett, published by HarperCollins Children's Books, a division of HarperCollins Publishers;

"Tender Morsels,"(Juv.L243t) by Margo Lanagan, published by Alfred A. Knopf, an imprint of Random House Children's Books, a division of Random House, Inc., New York.

Pura Belpre

Belpré Author Award

"The Surrender Tree: Poems of Cuba's Struggle for Freedom" by Margarita Engle, published by Henry Holt

Belpré Author Honor Books

"Just in Case" by Yuyi Morales, a Neal Porter Book published by Roaring Brook Press, a division of Holtzbrinck Publishing Holdings Limited Partnership

"Reaching Out" (Juv.J598r) by Francisco Jiménez, Houghton Mifflin Co.

"The Storyteller's Candle/La velita de los cuentos" (Juv.G6434s)
0by Lucia Gonzalez, illustrated by Lulu Delacre, Children's Book Press

Belpré Illustrator Award

"Just in Case" by Yuyi Morales, a Neal Porter Book, published by Roaring Brook, a division of Holtzbrinck Publishing Holdings Limited Partnership Press

Belpré Illustrator Honor Books
"Papa and Me" ,(Juv. D716d) illustrated by Rudy Gutierrez, written by Arthur Dorrosan imprint of HarperCollins Publishers

"The Storyteller's Candle/La velita de los cuentos" (Juv.G6434s) illustrated by Lulu Delacre, written by Lucia Gonzalez, Children's Book Press

"What Can You Do with a Rebozo" (Juv.T1246w)illustrated by Amy Cordova, written by Carmen Tafolla, Tricycle Press, an imprint of Ten Speed Press

Coretta Scott King Awards

Author Award
"We Are the Ship: The Story of Negro League Baseball," (Juv.796.357.N427w) written and illustrated by Kadir Nelson, The book is published by Jump at the Sun/Hyperion Books for Children, an imprint of Disney Book Group.

Author Honor Books
"The Blacker the Berry," by Joyce Carol Thomas, illustrated by Floyd Cooper and published by Amistad, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers;

"Keeping the Night Watch," by Hope Anita Smith, illustrated by E.B. Lewis and published by Henry Holt and Company; and

"Becoming Billie Holiday," (Juv.W3625b) by Carole Boston Weatherford, illustrated by Floyd Cooper and published by Wordsong, an imprint of Boyds Mills Press, Inc.

Illustrator Award
"The Blacker the Berry," illustrated by Floyd Cooper, written by Joyce Carol Thomas and published by Amistad, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers, is the King Illustrator Book winner.

Illustrator Honor
"We Are the Ship: The Story of Negro League Baseball," (Juv.796.357.N427w) written and illustrated by Kadir Nelson, published by Jump at the Sun/Hyperion Books for Children, an imprint of Disney Book Group

"Before John Was a Jazz Giant," by Carole Boston Weatherford, illustrated by Sean Qualls, published by Henry Holt and Company;

"The Moon Over Star" by Dianna Hutts Aston,(Juv.A8563m) illustrated by Jerry Pinkney, published by Dial Books for Young Readers, a division of Penguin Young Readers Group.


Coretta Scott King/John Steptoe New Talent Author Award.
Shadra Strickland, illustrator of "Bird," (Juv.E4669b) written by Zetta Elliott, is the Steptoe winner. The book is published by Lee & Low Books.


2010 May Hill Arbuthnot Honor Lecturer

Kathleen T. Horning, director of the University of Wisconsin-Madison's Cooperative Children's Book Center (CCBC)

Batchelder Award

Arthur A. Levine Books, an imprint of Scholastic, Inc., publisher of "Moribito: Guardian of the Spirit" by Nahoko Uehashi, translated from the Japanese by Cathy Hirano

Batchelder Honor Books

Eerdmans Books for Young Readers, an imprint of Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., publisher of "Garmann's Summer" written and illustrated by Stian Hole, translated from the Norwegian by Don Bartlett

Amulet Books, an imprint of Harry N. Abrams, Inc., publisher of "Tiger Moon" written by Antonia Michaelis, translated from the German by Anthea Bell

Carnegie Medal

Paul R. Gagne and Melissa Reilly, Weston Woods Studios, producers of "March On! The Day My Brother Martin Changed the World"

Geisel Award
"Are You Ready to Play Outside?" (Juv.W699a) written and illustrated by Mo Willems, Hyperion Books for Children, an imprint of Disney Book Group

Geisel Honor Books

"Chicken Said, 'Cluck!'" written by Judyann Ackerman Grant, illustrated by Sue Truesdell, HarperCollins Children's Books, a division of HarperCollins Publishers

"One Boy" (Juv.S4516o )written and illustrated by Laura Vaccaro Seeger, a Neal Porter Book published by Roaring Brook Press, a division of Holtzbrinck Publishing Holdings Limited Partnership

"Stinky" (Juv.D2617s) written and illustrated by Eleanor Davis, The Little Lit Library, a division of RAW Junior, LLC

"Wolfsnail: A Backyard Predator" (Juv.594.38 .C191w) written by Sarah C. Campbell, photographs by Sarah C. Campbell and Richard P. Campbell, Boyds Mills Press

Odyssey Award

"The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian," written and narrated by Sherman Alexie, produced by Recorded Books, LLC

Odyssey Honor Audiobooks

"Curse of the Blue Tattoo: Being an Account of the Misadventures of Jacky Faber, Midshipman and Fine Lady," written by L.A. Meyer, narrated by Katherine Kellgren, produced by Listen and Live Audio, Inc.

"Elijah of Buxton" written by Christopher Paul Curtis, narrated by Mirron Willis, produced by Listening Library, an imprint of the Random House Audio Publishing Group

"I'm Dirty" written by Kate and Jim McMullan, narrated by Steve Buscemi, produced by Weston Woods Studios, Inc./Scholastic

"Martina the Beautiful Cockroach: A Cuban Folktale" written and narrated by Carmen Agra Deedy, produced by Peachtree Publishers

"Nation" written by Terry Pratchett, narrated by Stephen Briggs, produced by Harper Children's Audio/HarperCollins Publishers

Sibert Medal

"We Are the Ship: The Story of Negro League Baseball" (Juv.796.357.N427w) written and illustrated by Kadir Nelson, Jump at the Sun/Hyperion Books for Children, an imprint of Disney Book Group

Sibert Honor Books

"Bodies from the Ice: Melting Glaciers and Rediscovery of the Past" written by James M. Deem, Houghton Mifflin Company

"What to Do about Alice?: How Alice Roosevelt Broke the Rules, Charmed the World, and Drove Her Father Teddy Crazy!" (Juv.923.2.L859k) written by Barbara Kerley, illusrated by Edwin Fotheringham, Scholastic Press, an imprint of Scholastic Inc.

Wilder Medal

Ashley Bryan, author and illustrator of numerous books, including "Dancing Granny," "Beat the Story-Drum, Pum-Pum" and "Beautiful Blackbird."

NJ History Day-Participation Needed!

NJ History Day information

It's not just a day...it's an experience! is the motto for History Day, an opportunity for students in grades 6-12 to develop research and critical thinking skills by creating projects based on historical topics. Great skills we’d like to see in our future students!

History Day keeps growing. Volunteer judges are needed for our two regional competitions, Saturday, March 21st at Seton Hall University, and Saturday, March 28th at Rider University, as well as for the state competition at William Paterson University on Saturday, May 2nd. Contests typically begin at 8:15am for orientation and conclude around 4:00pm. A continental breakfast and lunch is provided for judges.

Students in grades 6-8 compete in the Junior Division, students in grades 9-12 compete in the Senior Division. Working with this year's theme of "The Individual in History: Actions and Legacies" students develop either an exhibit, documentary, performance, website, or paper on an historical topic of their choice. They may work individually, or with a group. Winners from the regional contests go on to the State competition (May 2nd), and winners from the State competition go on to the National competition in Maryland (June 14-18).

Judges Needed, Volunteer!

Since each year more schools and students compete, the need for judges keeps growing. You do not need to be an historian to judge! The judging teams are usually made up of three people: an historian, an educator, and perhaps a specialist in the type of project, e.g. performance. This is a great opportunity to encourage students to develop strong research skills using primary resources, as well as effective oral, written and visual communication skills.

Training sessions for judges are scheduled on Friday, February 20 at Seton Hall (4:30-6:30 p.m.) and Rider (4-6 p.m.).

When e-mailing or calling, please indicate your name, contact information, which contest (Seton Hall, Rider and/or William Paterson), and which category (Exhibits, Performances, Documentaries, Websites) you would like to judge. Category requests will be honored when possible.

If you are interested and would like to learn more, contact either Margaret Renn (973-720-3978) or Nancy Norris-Bauer (973-720-3131), both at NJHISTORYDAY@wpunj.edu, or take a look at the NJ History Day website, http://nj.nhd.org/index.htm

January Events of Note!

January 21, 2009 12-2p.m. NJCU’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship Celebration

Cornell William Brooks speaks at NJCU’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship Celebration on January 21

Cornell William Brooks, a public interest attorney, civil rights litigator, writer, and fourth-generation ordained minister who is executive director of the New Jersey Institute for Social Justice (NJISJ), a Newark-based urban research and advocacy organization dedicated to the advancement of New Jersey’s urban communities and residents, will speak at New Jersey City University’s 20th annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship Celebration on Wednesday, January 21.

The program, which will benefit NJCU scholarships, will be held 12:00 – 2:30 p.m., in the Multipurpose Room of the Michael Gilligan Student Union on the University campus at 2039 Kennedy Boulevard in Jersey City. Tickets are $30.00; $15.00 for full-time students and senior citizens over 65 years of age. The community is welcome.

Based on the theme, “The Politics of Hope in a Post-King Era,” the program is sponsored by NJCU’s Lee Hagan Africana Studies Center and Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs.

For further information call NJCU’s Lee Hagan Africana Studies Center at (201)200-3524.
_______________________________________________________________________________________________

January 23, 2009 -THINKFriday @ Imagine Atrium- Fahrenheit 451 Program

Join us as we partner with the Jersey City Free Public Library and celebrate Jersey City's "Big Read" book, Fahrenheit 451, with a screening of the classic film by François Truffaut and an informal book discussion following the film.

When: THINKFriday, January 23 @ 7pm
Where: Imagine Atrium Bookstore, 528 Jersey Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07302

FREE COPIES of Fahrenheit 451 are available at Imagine Atrium and at the Jersey City Main Library on Jersey Avenue if you have a library card. Get your copy now before they're all gone!

This is a BIG READ EVENT.

For more information, visit http://www.imagineatrium.com

For more about The Big Read, visit http://www.neabigread.org/



_____________________________________________________________________________________________________

January 29, 2009 4:30-6pm Author/Illustrator Eric Velasquez
The M. Jerry Weiss Center for Children’s and Young Adult Literature at New Jersey City University proudly presents illustrator and author Eric Velasquez and a Professional Development Workshop.

Thursday, January 29, 2009
4:30-6:30 p.m.
Hepburn Hall, Room 202
New Jersey City University
2039 Kennedy Boulevard
Jersey City, New Jersey

Coretta Scott King Award-winning illustrator Eric Velasquez’s photorealistic pastel illustrations created for young adult book author Carole Boston Weatherford have been described as both “tough-minded and poetic.” The suspense and triumph of Ms. Weatherford’s books, I, Matthew Henson and Jesse Owens, Fastest Man Alive, have been heightened by the rich and historical illustrations by Mr. Velasquez. Mr. Velasquez also illustrated Addie Boswell’s The Rain Stomper and his own book, Grandma’s Records.

This presentation is ideal for librarians, classroom and reading teachers), university students, and other supporters of literacy and literature.

$25 admission fee includes two N.J. Professional Development Hours; $20 for full-time undergraduate students (identification required).
Admission fee waived for NJCU undergraduates not seeking N.J. Professional development hours.

For more information contact Maureen McGuire, director of development, at
mmcguire1@njcu.edu
or call (201) 200-3196. Please provide an e-mail address where we may send your registration confirmation.

All children must be accompanied by an adult.
Parking available in NJCU’s West Side Avenue Lot for a $6.00 fee.
For directions to NJCU visit http://www.njcu.edu/i2e/visit/directions.asp.


---------------REGISTRATION FORM-------------------------------
Yes! I would like to attend the Eric Velasquez presentation!
Return payment/check with completed registration form to:
Maureen McGuire
Office of Development
Hepburn Hall, Room 326
New Jersey City University
2039 Kennedy Boulevard
Jersey City, NJ 07305-1597

Please check your payment method and provide the following information:

Name_____________________________ email ______________________ Address _____________ City_______ State_______ Zip ______________

__VISA __ MASTERCARD ___ Check enclosed
(Make check payable to the NJCU Foundation, Inc. and designate M. Jerry Weiss Center in the memo portion.) Account number ______________________ Expiration date _____________ Signature _____________________________



__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

January 30, 31, 2009 African Diaspora Film Festival at the Jersey City Museum
The African Diaspora Film Series
2 DAYS – FRIDAY AND SATURDAY
Dates/Times: January 30, 2009 Noon – 5pm
January 31, 2009 Noon – 5pm



Price: Individual tickets per screening are $10, $8 students and seniors, $7 museum members.
Contact: African Diaspora Film Festival at 212-864-1760
Details:
Jersey City Museum is pleased to present the African Diaspora Film Series on Friday, January 30, and Saturday, January 31, 2009.

Individual tickets may be purchased at the museum on the day of the events or purchased in advance on the African Diaspora Film Festival website at www.nyadff.org or by calling them at (212) 864-1760. Tickets are $10, $8 for students and seniors, $7 for members of the museum. ADFF/JCM Series Pass is $30. This special pass gives access to all the screenings in the series.

Please contact the African Diaspora Film Festival to enquire about group rates for schools for the Friday afternoon screening of The Great Bazaar, which is recommended for grade 10 and up.

DVDs and VHS of films from Africa and the African Diaspora Film Festival will be on sale in the museum's atrium. $20 per DVD/VHS; $35 for 2 DVD/VHS; $45 for three DVD/VHS and $15 for each additional DVD/VHS.

The schedule of film screenings for Friday and Saturday is as follows:

FRIDAY, JANUARY 30, 2009

12:00pm | The Great Bazaar
(2005, Licinio Azevedo) In the suburb of an African city, 12 years-old Paito sells fritters outside his house. One day, a band of young robbers takes his money. He decides he's not going to go home until he recovers what he lost. With this in mind, he heads out for the big city on the same train as the thieves. Looking for work, he begins to live in a market square that at night becomes a dormitory for homeless vendors. There he meets Xano, a boy his age, whose insolent behavior and fearlessness attract him. Unlike Paito, Xano despises work and he steals. Despite their differences, they become friends. Together, they reinvent the world. Language: Portuguese with English subtitles. Run time: 58 minutes.

2:30PM | Made in Jamaica
New Jersey Premiere!
(2006, Jerome Laperrousaz) This musical documentary presents an overview of the reggae music movement past and present. From the crime and violence of the ghetto to political responsibility; from the history of slavery and colonization to the legacy of Bob Marley and the idea of salvation through music; from religion and the Rasta movement to sex, women, and their role in reggae, Made in Jamaica explores the multifaceted reality of reggae music through interviews and musical performances with artists like Capleton, Elephant Man, Bunny Wailer, Toots & the Maytals, Bounty Killer, Gregory Isaacs, Tanya Stephens, Beres Hammond, and others. Running time: 110 minutes.



SATURDAY, JANUARY 31, 2009

12:00PM | Slaying Goliath
New Jersey Premiere!
(2008, Michele Stephenson and Joe Brewster) Slaying Goliath is a candid account of a fifth grade basketball team on a quest to win a national title, all the while struggling with where they came from and how far they will go. Through their journey from Harlem, NY to Florida, many of them leaving their neighborhoods for the first time, parents, coaches and team members learn valuable lessons about teamwork, unity, and who they are in relation to the world around them. Running time: 80 minutes.

A question and answer session with the filmmakers will be held after the screening of Slaying Goliath.

DOUBLE FEATURE PROGRAM: Afro-Cuba: Yesterday and Today
TWO FILMS FOR ONE ADMISSION!
La Ultima Rumba de Papa Montero and Sara Gomez: An Afro-Cuban Filmmaker

2:10PM | La Ultima Rumba de Papa Montero
(1992, Octavio Cortazar) A fascinating film on the rhythmic dance genre known as Rumba, La Ultima Rumba de Papa Montero dances around the life of Papa Montero, one of the famous rumberos of Cuba, assassinated during carnival. A discovery of Cuban traditions and every day life told through beautiful images, sensual music and dance. The use of Afro-Cuban mythology is the force behind the characters as orishas guide the characters' fate. Language: Spanish with English subtitles. Running time: 52 minutes.

3:10PM | Sara Gomez: an Afro-Cuban Filmmaker
(2005, Alessandra Muller) Sara Gomez: An Afro-Cuban Filmmaker is a rich, multilayered documentary about Afro-Cuban director Sarah Gomez. Born in 1943, she studied literature, piano, and Afro-Cuban ethnography before becoming the first female Cuban filmmaker. A woman of great intelligence, independence and generosity, she was a revolutionary filmmaker with intersecting concerns about the Afro-Cuban community and the value of its cultural traditions, women's issues, and the treatment of the marginalized sectors of society. Through archival footage of her works and interviews with her children and husband Germinal Hernandez, cast members of her best-know film De cierta manera,as well as colleagues and friends, we get closer to a filmmaker who invented new landscapes and brought together opposite worlds. Language: Spanish with English subtitles. Running time: 76 minutes.

A discussion between Reinaldo Barroso-Spech, Co-Director of the African Diaspora Film Festival, and artist Ben Jones ("Deliverance" THE ART OF BEN JONES 1970-2008, on view at Jersey City Museum through February 21, 2009) will follow the double feature screenings.

New series on the Obama family, Comments?

UPDATE:
COMMUNICATION FOR THE PUBLISHER:
We have decided to change the series name to "First Family of Hope", and luckily we have just enough time to change the name before the books go to print. Originally we were going to use "First Family of Change" but we wanted to differentiate our series from the many that are already out, or set to come out in the near future, so we went with (what we thought was appealing based on the aforementioned media examples) "Cool".

I think "Hope" does the trick while communicating the importance and historical significance.

***************************************************************************************************************

This is an advertisement for a new book series marketed to elementary school children, "Obamas, First Family of Cool".

What do you think?

Persons surveyed found the title to be disparaging and demeaning to our new first family.

Post your comments here or to the publisher at Mason Crest Publishers [bbuch@masoncrest.com]




The stories of the Obamas are uniquely American stories. This six-book set takes readers behind the scenes and tells the stories of this family from six unique perspectives.

Take advantage of our pre-publication special and save over $20 on the complete set of six.

Barack is the story of a man of humble beginnings, the son of a white mother from
Kansas and a black father from Kenya, Africa,and the extraordinary journey he took on his way to the presidency.

Michelle takes readers back to her childhood andformative years, and follows her steps and choices along her way to becoming the first lady of the United States of America.

Malia, 10 years old, plays piano, soccer, and tennis, and loves dance and drama. Experience becoming a member of the first family through Malia's eyes.

Sasha, the youngest at 7, also plays piano and tennis, and especially loves gymnastics and tap dance. Discover her unusual take on it all.

The Obama Family Tree traces the lives and times of the Obamas' ancestors, including early American colonists from Europe, African villagers, and South Carolina slaves.


Obama Mania shares the stories of those most effected, including everyday people and celebrities, men and women, young and old, black and white, in America and around the world. Obama mania is undeniable!


· More then 25 engaging photos
· 64 full-color pages
· Library bound
· Trim size: 7¼ x 9 ¼
· Ages:10 and up


The Obama's: First Family of Cool Set ISBN / 978-1-4222-1476-3
Barack Obama / 978-1-4222-1477-0
Michelle Obama / 978-1-4222-1478-7
Malia Obama / 978-1-4222-1479-4
Sasha Obama / 978-1-4222-1480-0
The Obama Family / 978-1-4222-1481-7
Obama Mania / 978-1-4222-1482-4


Hardcover Library Price Each . . . . . . $19.95
Hardcover 6-Book Set Price . . . . . . $119.70
Special Pre-publication Set Price . . . . $99.50


Email TO ORDER: bbuch@masoncrest.com

toll-free (866) 627-2665
fax (610) 543-3878
Mason Crest Publishers www.masoncrest.com

Feeling Lucky? Write your way to the Inauguration

A writing contest for persons over 18 was announced by the Inauguaral Committee
The deadline is January 8th at midnight.
Tell your senior high school students, collehge students and instructors to get out their pens!
See the rules below:


Official Rules and Restrictions


• Entries will be accepted from 12:01 a.m. EST on 12/30/2008 to 11:59 EST on 1/8/2009

. Only individuals 18 years or older who are U.S. citizens or U.S. resident aliens, and who voluntarily choose to enter, may enter the contest. Corporations (including non-profit corporations) are expressly prohibited from entering the contest.


• Your entry must be submitted electronically to:
https://www.pic2009org/tickettohistory,
and must include your name, mailing address, phone number, and email address.


• Winner shall be selected from all eligible entries by the strength of their essay about what the inauguration means to them before 1/15/2009.


• The winners shall be notified by email on or before 1/16/2009, and shall be required to complete an affidavit or declaration of eligibility and liability release. Failure to comply within 5 days after the date printed on the prize notification may result in disqualification of winning entry and random selection of another entrant as the winner. Presidential Inaugural Committee 2009 is not responsible for and shall not be liable for late, lost, misdirected, or unsuccessful efforts to notify winners.


• The winners shall receive travel to Washington DC, accommodations, and access to official inaugural events.


• No purchase necessary. Contributing to Presidential Inaugural Committee 2009 will not improve your chances of winning. You may enter the contest as many times as you like without a contribution by entering here: http://www.pic2009.org/page/s/tickettohistory.


• This contest is sponsored and run by Presidential Inaugural Committee 2009, headquartered at 330 C Street SW, Washington DC. A copy of these rules and the winner's names may be obtained by writing to Presidential Inaugural Committee 2009. Requests must be received by December 31, 2009.


• This contest is subject to all federal, state and local laws and regulations. Void where prohibited by law.


• Employees, independent contractors, officers, and directors of Presidential Inaugural Committee 2009, its affiliates, subsidiaries, advertising, promotion and fulfillment agencies, and legal advisors, and the immediate family members and persons living in the same household of such persons, are not eligible to participate in this contest.


• By participating, entrants agree that Presidential Inaugural Committee 2009 and its agents and representatives are not responsible or liable for, and shall be released and held harmless from, any and all losses, damages, rights, claims and actions of any kind in connection with or resulting from participation in this contest, including winning this contest, including without limitation, claims based on publicity rights, defamation, or invasion of privacy.


• Presidential Inaugural Committee 2009 reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to suspend or cancel this contest. Information collected from entrants is subject to Presidential Inaugural Committee 2009's security and privacy policy. Presidential Inaugural Committee 2009 will not provide your contact information to any other organization without authorization. This contest is offered only in the 50 United States and the District of Columbia. All issues concerning the administration of this contest shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with the laws of the District of Columbia.

NJIT Information Night at Newark Public Library-12/10/08

NJIT INFORMATION NIGHT
at
THE NEWARK PUBLIC LIBRARY
50 Hayes Street, Second Floor
Newark, New Jersey 07103

Please be advised that on Wednesday, December 10, 2008 at 5:00 p.m. NJIT has graciously agreed to conduct an information session for our students. This will take place at the Springfield Branch of the Newark Public Library and we encourage YOU to bring and/or send your children.

You will have a chance to ask questions and draft a plan of action if you are interested in NJIT. If you are college bound, you should take advantage of this opportunity. Children of color have traditionally been underrepresented in most of these high paying technology fields.

Please come out on:

Wednesday, December 10, 2008, 5:00 p.m.

Newark Public Library
50 Hayes Street, second floor
Newark, NJ 07103

Bus Nos. 25, 99, 1, and 31 are all within one block of the library located at 14th Avenue and Jones Street (across from New Horizon, New Community Charter School).

Teaching African American History and TTEA

On Friday, December 5, 2008, the New York Daily News reported the following:

New York teacher binds black students during history lesson on slavery
By DORIAN BLOCK
DAILY NEWS STAFF WRITER

Friday, December 5th 2008, 4:57 PM

A suburban middle school teacher who bound the hands and feet of two black girls, then made them crawl under desks representing slave ships, has sparked outrage by one of the girl's mother and the local NAACP chapter....Northern Rockland School District Superintendent Brian Monahan said he was having "conversations with our staff on how to deliver effective lessons."
Source: http://www.nydailynews.com/ny_local/2008/12/05/2008-12-05_new_york_teacher_binds_black_students_du.html

Research in teaching the Transatlantic Trade in Enslaved Africans (TTEA) has resulted in the development of several educational websites, with global and multicultural perspectives. One site is from the acclaimed Schomburg Center in New York,it is called In Motion: The African American Migration Experience and is located at http://www.inmotionaame.org/home.cfm
It includes text, photographs and lesson plans (http://www.inmotionaame.org/education/)

UNESCO also has an interesting educational website called African Passages http://ldhi.library.cofc.edu/exhibits/show/africanpassageslowcountryadapt/introductionatlanticworld/trans_atlantic_slave_trade, which shows the connection between African, Caribbean and North American cultures.Lesson plans are available at http://www.cofc.edu/unescoafricanpassages/teaching.htm

Copyright Law and Fair Use

An amusing video created byProfessor Eric Faden of Bucknell University from the Stanford Center for Internet and Society. He created this humorous, yet informative, review of copyright principles delivered through Disney characters. The Center for Internet and Society (CIS), housed at Stanford Law School and a part of the Law, Science and Technology Program, is at the apex of this evolving area of law. http://cyberlaw.stanford.edu/documentary-film-program/film/a-fair-y-use-tale

View it here


This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 3.0 License
Distributed on DVD by The Media Education Foundation

Harvard University relaunches its Usable Knowledge website

Harvard Graduate School of Education (HGSE) has relaunched its Usable Knowledge website aimed at connecting the research of its faculty with educators in the field.

The Usable Knowledge website (http://www.uknow.gse.harvard.edu/) features a diverse set of media – text, video, and audio – to make the leading research of its faculty accessible to educators all over the world.

"The Usable Knowledge website is consistent with the School's commitment to bringing research to our colleagues throughout the education community

Books for Puerto Rico Discovery Day

Puerto Rico Discovery Day is today

Here is a short booklist of library books about Puerto Rico:

Puerto Rico History and Culture
E184.P85.A23 2006 Puerto Ricans in the United States
E184.P85.N44 2004 Boricua Pop: The Latinization of American Culture
E184.P85.S255 2007 Boricua Power: A Political History of Puerto Ricans in the United States

Juv. G 6434s Storyteller’s candle (Biography of Pura Belpre)
Juv. N761a Abuelita’s paradise
Juv. 398.S527 2002 Shake It Morena! and Other folklore from Puerto Rico
Juv. 398.21.M7793 Juan Bobo Goes to Work
Juv. 591.97.S586c 2000 Coqui and his Friends

NJ Tree for Rockefeller Center-Fact and Fiction

Fact:

HAMILTON, N.J. – The centerpiece of Christmas at New York's Rockefeller Center will be a tree from western New Jersey that its owners call a "miracle."
Workers cut down the 8-ton, 72-foot-tall Norway spruce at the home of the Varanyak family in Hamilton, near a tree nursery they own. It will be erected at Rockefeller Center on Friday, November 14, 2008
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20081113/ap_on_fe_st/rockefeller_center_tree_1

Fiction:

(written by a native New jersey author-illustrator team!)
Redbird at Rockefeller Center by Peter Maloney and Felicia Zekauskas.
(Juv.M257r )
Kate is upset when her favorite tree is cut down and sent to Rockefeller Center to be displayed at Christmas, especially because she saw a fledgling in it. The redbird is lonely in the city, and holiday magic brings the bird and Kate's tree back home