Room101 Morning Class

Marine Debris

2010-07-26T19:21:00.000-07:00

2009-10-04T20:48:00.004-07:00

2009-10-04T20:48:00.003-07:00

2009-10-04T20:48:00.002-07:00

2009-10-04T20:48:00.001-07:00

2009-10-04T20:48:00.000-07:00

Good Luck with Your New Class!

2009-08-30T21:23:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone, This week I won't be sending you a list of new spelling words, as you will be

getting spelling words from your new teacher, Deborah Gordon. She will be taking Richard's place until he returns to teaching. She is an experienced teacher with strong computer skills

that she will be using in class. I will be around Neighborhood Center either helping with

registration, or substituting in different classes. I'll miss all of you, and I'll probably see you from time to time. If you haven't registered yet, please come to Neighborhood Center at 8:30am,

on Monday, August 31. You need to take a CASAS test before you can be assigned to a class.

Good luck in your new class. Best wishes, Linda

Spelling Words for the Week of August 24, 2009

2009-08-23T18:50:00.000-07:00

Hi All, Hope you're enjoying your summer, and have been practicing English. This week on
Friday, August 28, there will be registration for returning students, and classes start again on
Monday, August 31. So, vacation is almost over. Some of you are starting Laney or other schools, and I want to wish you good luck. Come back and visit us when you can.
This week's spelling words are about Judge Sonia Sotomayor.
1. approve
2. appointment
3. Supreme Court
4. Democrats
5. Republicans
6. position
7. affirmed
8. intellect
9. temperament
10. integrity
11. independence
12. ably
13. thrilled
14. experienced
15. asset
16. aspects
17. Latino
18. opportunity
19. diabetic
20. disability
21. forbids
22. impairments
23. advocates
24. champion
25. current

Spelling Words for the Week of Aug. 17, 2009

2009-08-17T00:44:00.000-07:00

Hi All, I'm still using my husband's old computer while I decide what to do. My computer isn't
worth fixing, so I need to make a decision soon. I'll keep you posted. Meanwhile I'm attending
all day workshops this week about Adult School. It's more tiring than teaching! I want to encourage you to write on the blog, and not just to me. This may get other students involved,
and it's good practice for your writing. This week's words are about health reform.
1. confused
2. current
3. private
4. public
5. insurance
6. derail
7. system
8. prevent
9. illness
10. access
11. financial
12. ruin
13. excessive
14. debate
15. essential
16. solution
17. industry
18. excuse
19. misled
20. multiple
21. restrict
22. physicians
23. administrative
24. diverse
25. similar

Spelling Words for the week of August 10, 2009

2009-08-11T00:04:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone, Sorry that this week's spelling words are a little late. While I was in LA, my
computer died, and I'm now usung my husband's old computer until I decide what to do. Either
I will get my old computer repaired, or have to buy a new one. I'll make my decision after I
go to the computer store. I had a great time in LA, and I'm happy to be home. Hope you are
all enjoying this wonderful summer. This week's words are about the state budget.
Best regards, Linda P.S. Keep e-mailing me, and I will answer you when I can.
1. regain
2. economic
3. integrity
4. budgeting
5. accountability
6. turmoil
7. opportunity
8. permanent
9. downturn
10. acknowledge
11. unwilling
12. unpopular
13. balance
14. excessive
15. borrowing
16. worthy
17. recession
18. unemployment
19. revenue
20. forecast
21. vital
22. eliminated
23. conserve
24. convince
25. accurate

Spelling words for week of Aug. 3, 2009

2009-08-02T16:31:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone, August is already here so quickly. I've heard from a few students

over vacation, and it's not too late to e-mail me and let me know what

you're doing this summer. My e-mail address is Newbuc@aol.com. I'll be going to L.A. (Los Angeles) this weekend, so I might be a little late with the spelling

words for next week. Also, please let me know if there are particular spelling

words that you would like to learn. These words are about adult education. Enjoy our gorgeous weather. Love, Linda

1. critical

2. persistence

3. remove

4. barriers

5. orientation

6. relationships

7. self-efficacy

8. significant

9. specific

10. motivation

11. benefit

12. goals

13. participation

14. focus

15. colleagues

16. mentors

17. identify

18. support

19. determination

20. advice

21. increase

22. strategies

23. techniques

24. accessible

25. overcome

Spelling words for week of July 27, 2009

2009-07-26T21:02:00.000-07:00

Hi Everybody,

Hope you enjoyed another beautiful weekend in the Bay Area. My husband and I

went to the Kite Festival at the Berkeley Marina. There were so many kites of all

sizes and shapes, some extremely large and colorful. Luckily, there was enough wind to keep the kites going. Also, this event attracts families from all different

backgrounds and countries. It was a real multicultural event.

The spelling words this week are about the arrest of Professor Gates, by a police

officer, when breaking into his own house. President Obama got involved because it was a racial profiling situation.

1. accused

2. arrested

3. racial

4. profiling

5. uproar

6. hastened

7. controversy

8. invited

9. professor

10. conceded

11. ill-chosen

12. apology

13. rancorous

14. back-and-forth

15. transpired

16. lighten

17. situation

18. commiserated

19. multiracial

20. fallout

21. disorderly

22. conduct

23. remarks

24. compelled

25. mushroomed

Just wondering why?

2009-07-23T22:29:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone, How’s your summer vacation. Did you check the blog everyday?
Linda Teacher posted the vocabulary every week, did you follow? I did.
I wondering Why Linda Teacher Just brought few students to visited Richard. If I don’t have to work I would go together next time. Thank you. Enjoy your vacation. See you soon

Spelling words for week of July 20, 2009

2009-07-19T22:06:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone, Hope you enjoyed another beautiful week in sunny Oakland, or

wherever you live. I'm enjoying spending time in my backyard garden, and taking

care of the plants and flowers. A few of us visited with Richard this week and he

was so happy to see us. He suggested maybe a small BBQ in August. I'll keep you posted. Your teacher, Linda

This week's words are about skyscrapers going green.

1. skyscraper

2. facade

3. insulate

4. energy

5. tenants

6. desirable

7. property

8. environmental

9. improvements

10. gamble

11. skyline

12. upgrade

13. structures

14. efficient

15. managers

16. convince

17. building

18. financial

19. retrofits

20. technology

21. occupancy

22. renovation

23. recycled

24. preserve

25. modifications

Have good time with Richard

2009-07-13T18:49:00.001-07:00

It's Linda, Richard, Kathleen, Kaiyan, Ella on the picture.

These pictures were took in Richard's home today. We went to visit him. He became thiner than before and looked tired, but we were happy to see him.

His daughter (the dog) was so enthusiastic for our coming, she wanted to kiss every guests, but only me have the pleasure got one of her kiss, even I told her I don't want to kiss with her...

Spelling Words for week of July 13, 2009

2009-07-12T23:25:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone, Hope you're enjoying the beautiful weather. Today I went kayacking in Sausalito with my husband and friends. We had a kayack for two

people and I sat in the back and helped to steer the boat. It was fun being on the water. I've been e-mailing about 6 students and I'd like to hear from you. Please

e-mail me at Newbuc@aol.com and I will answer you. Richard is feeling better after his last treatment.

This week's words are in memory of Michael Jackson, a famous singer who died

a few weeks ago. He was known as the "King of Pop".

1. entertainer

2. icon

3. legend

4. international

5. creative

6. talent

7. phenomenon

8. charitable

9. special

10. childlike

11. spotlight

12. fame

13. addictive

14. controversial

15. dynamic

16. memorial service

17. funeral

18. spectacle

19. awards

20. global

21. superstar

22. monoculture

23. spirit

24. performer

25. entertainment

Spelling Words for week of July 6, 2009

2009-07-06T00:16:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone, Hope you enjoyed your July 4th weekend. I was in Sausalito and

was able to see some local fireworks there. On Sunday, I went on a long hike, and

now I'm feeling very tired and sore. I want to recommend the movie "Up" and it

is appropriate for kids and adults. It is in local theaters and it is animated,

funny, and has adult emotional content. Even if you don't understand all the

spoken language, you will get the message.

I spoke to Richard today, and he had a good trip back East for his father's

memorial service and to visit his 95 year old Aunt. He is feeling better and going in for a treatment on Tuesday. We all hope he continues to do well.

1. assisting

2. badge

3. cap

4. elderly

5. fake

6. fix up

7. flightless

8. waterfall

9. desperate

10. successful

11. permission

12. solution

13. owe

14. productive

15. dutiful

16. support

17. get ahead

18. obstacle

19. recognize

20. aim

21. collaborate

22. hook

23. nag

24. push

25. promotion

Spelling Words for week of June 29

2009-06-29T00:29:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone, Hope your summer is going well and have a safe, happy July 4th weekend. Don't get caught with any fireworks, and don't eat too much BBQ.

This week's words are 15 most commonly misspelled words and 10 words about Independence Day. Please e-mail me and let me know what kind of spelling words you would like for another week. Thank you to those students who have e-mailed me, and I will be getting back to you. My e-mail address is Newbuc @aol.com.

Please keep in touch this summer. I miss all of you. Love, Your teacher Linda

1. succeed

2. necessary

3. connected

4. their

5. accelerate

6. obstinate

7. responsibility

8. hindrance

9. hospitality

10. leisurely

11. shield

12. innovative

13. proceed

14. tropical

15. yield

16. soldiers

17. colonists

18. independence

19. declaration

20. liberty

21. pursuit

22. happiness

23. pledge

24. honor

25. dangerous

Fathers Day

2009-06-21T23:40:00.000-07:00

Thank you for contributing to my wonderful Father's Day.

My kids cooked me breakfast.

A friend invited me to dinner.

Of course, I shared the cards you created with everyone!

Thanks again. (Even the slightly delinquent ones)

I wish you a summer of fun and learning, but I can only wish for you. You have to go out and have fun and practice English.

Love

ps Special thanks to Linda and her husband, John, who hand delivered the Father's Day cards to my home on Friday afternoon.

Spelling Words for Week of June 22

2009-06-21T20:51:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone, Enjoy the first week of summer. If you need to reach me, you can

e-mail me at Newbuc@aol.com. Please let me know if there are particular words you would like to learn. Best wishes, Linda

1. appreciate

2. variety

3. enthusiastic

4. realize

5. eventually

6. control

7. abstain

8. conscience

9. function

10. extreme

11. improve

12. laughter

13. mischief

14. complex

15. partner

16. constant

17. employ

18. create

19. quiet

20. actual

21. complain

22. explain

23. simply

24. promotion

25. progress

Happy Summer and Happy Father's Day!

2009-06-19T09:20:00.000-07:00

Hi Richard, How are you? We missed you at our party, so we're sending you a picture
that Kai Yan took. There was a combination of different foods from different students. For ex., Pedro brought homemade guacamole and chips, Ayako brought home-
made sushi, Kai Yan brought home baked cake, Nhu brought homemade colorful sweet
rice, Mei Fang brought homemade Chinese cucumber salad. Everything tasted real good.
We made a communal table by putting many tables together and filling the entire room. Then we sat opposite each other and passed around the food. Yun Ping put
on music that Pedro put together for us. It was a fun and successful party for
everybody!
Hope to see you next semester. Enjoy your summer vacation and Father's Day too!
A few of us will try to blog you this summer. O.K? Bye, bye from your loving
24/7 students from room 101am.
P.S. Teacher Linda brought many nice tablecloths for our table, and all the paper products.

2009-06-19T09:15:00.000-07:00

2009-06-15T22:06:00.000-07:00

Spelling words for Thurs. June 18

2009-06-13T20:13:00.000-07:00

21. possession

22. misfortune

23. height

24. publicity

25. attachment

Spelling words for Thurs. June 18

2009-06-13T19:59:00.000-07:00

1. commitment

2. opportunity

3. embarrassed

4. occasionally

5. receive

6. patience

7. achievement

8. prejudice

9. familiar

10. controversial

11. prescription

12. accumulate

13. judgment

14. conscious

15. foreign

16. similar

17. contemporary

18. beneficial

19. guarantee

20. particular

How Was Your Trip?

2009-06-11T20:35:00.000-07:00

Hi students of the morning class, I've been thinking about you, and how you enjoyed your trip.

I noticed that Richard would like to find out about the trip too. So, how about writing by

yourself, or as a group. I'll be back to class on Monday, June 15, and will probably be a little jet-

lagged. I've been having a great time in NYC, and saw two Broadway plays, and went to one art

museum. It's has been raining and drizzling almost everyday, and there was a terrible thunder and lightning storm one night, and I had a difficult time going back to sleep. I've been eating a lot of good food, and luckily I've been walking a lot, so I didn't gain any weight. That's all for now,

and I look forward to seeing all of you very soon. Love, Your teacher Linda

Spelling Words for Week of June 8-12

2009-06-08T09:05:00.000-07:00

1. transportation
2. botany
3. forbidden
4. virtual
5. moral
6. surrender
7. fragile
8. planet
9. irresistible
10. rainforest
11. alligator
12. Madagascar
13. Philippines
14. solar system
15. asteroid
16. gorilla
17. sustainable
18. crave
19. skeleton
20. inspire
21. individual
22. comet
23. fossil
24. preserve
25. geyser

Have a Great Trip to the Museum!

2009-06-02T12:15:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

I'm enjoying my time in NY with my family. My great nephew, 5 years old, is graduating from

preschool tomorrow, and there will be a small celebration. I'll write to you again when I'm

in NYC (the big apple). Wishing you a terrific trip to the Academy of Sciences, and don't forget

to get the pass to the planetarium immediately after arriving there. I hope to see photos and stories when I get back.

I miss you guys, and send you my love, Linda

Day at the Museum

2009-06-02T07:22:00.000-07:00

Classmates,

Howwarya?

I can't go with you on Wednesday. I'll be getting treatments at the hospital.

Yesterday I took the BART and the N-Judah streetcar to the museum and the trip went well.

One piece of advice:
As soon as you arrive at the Museum, ask where to get a pass for the Morrison Planetarium. The planetarium show is free but requires a pass. Get it first thing!

Have a great trip and post some photos and stories.

Richard

ps Look for my pal, the white alligator.

An Invitation to Our Party

2009-05-29T18:38:00.000-07:00

Hi Mr. Little Birdie, We want to invite you to our end-of -the-school year party on Thursday,

June 18 in room 101, from 10:ooam to 11:30pm. We hope you can come, and you don't have to let us know, just come! We're going to have a surprise D.J. and singer, and great music and dancing.

Of course, there will be excellent ethnic food from many countries, no alcohol, but coffee, tea,

and other drinks. It should be a great way to end this school year.

We're looking forward to our field trip on Wednesday, and heard that you're going on Monday

and may send us some pictures and recommend what to see. Have a great time!

Don't worry, be happy ( remember that song by Bobby Mcferrin?)

Love from your 24/7 am class.

Spelling Words for Friday, June 5

2009-05-29T18:30:00.000-07:00

1. follow up

2. concentrate

3. grateful

4. excuse

5. report

6. select

7. nervous

8. service

9. nature

10. relieved

11. encourage

12. benefit

13. recruit

14. collaborate

15. recognize

16. successful

17. permission

18. productive

19. support

20. obstacle

21. solution

22. potential

23. favorable

24. donate

25. look sharp

Spelling Words for Fri. May 29

2009-05-25T11:28:00.000-07:00

1. unpredictable

2. optimistic

3. gratitude

4. strengthen

5. connections

6. challenges

7. failure

8. isolate

9. miracle

10. insight

11. thrive

12. ritual

13. pancreas

14. lungs

15. kidneys

16. gall bladder

17. liver

18. intestines

19. spleen

20. thyroid

21. heart

22. stomach

23. appendix

24. kindness

25. goodwill

We Miss You Extremely!

2009-05-21T09:49:00.000-07:00

Hi Mr. 911, We are having an emergency. Can you help us? We want to plan an end of the year party at school. Can you come to join us? We will write an emergency story for you to read.
We finished our CASAS tests yesterday, and some students need to go back to room 102, including Pedro. He is still sitting in the back of the room, by the door, waiting for you to visit
us, and it is so cool by the fan. Please give us a surprise soon!!!

Happy Memorial Day! Enjoy a BBQ, go to the beach with Ceda (your dog), and spend some
money to help the economy. We miss you and love you,
Room 101am, 24/7 class

The Shadow Knows

2009-05-20T23:53:00.000-07:00

A little birdie told me that certain students are slinking (have slunk) to the back table.

ENJOY THE LONG WEEKEND!

Spelling Words for Thurs. May 21

2009-05-17T19:53:00.000-07:00

1. products

2. warnings

3. avoid

4. contact

5. ingest

6. precautions

7. prolonged

8. label

9. absorbed

10. external

11. internal

12. antidote

13. adequate

14. container

15. extremely

16. puncture

17. ignite

18. ventilation

19. contaminate

20. contents

21. irritate

22. disinfect

23. hazardous

24. insecticide

25. directions

We Continue To Miss You!

2009-05-15T10:54:00.000-07:00

Hi Richard, How are you today? Every Friday we like to check in with you. Are you enjoying the sunshine and very hot weather? We're trying to keep cool by turning the lights off ("sit down") and saving energy to the school. That way we can have summer school here. Today we got a new student, Javier Gonzalez, who worked at Piedmont Grocery and now at Baja Ta-
queria on Piedmont Ave. Come by for a complementary super burrito and maybe a margarita (not a new student). You missed the special Ferrero chocolate treat that we had today. Everyone liked it very much, and Pedro ate three, and one is white paper chocolate, made by Yun Ping.
Pedro tried to eat it, but opened it instead. Pedro said, " It's hard to swallow!" Swallow was one of our spelling words this week. So, Pedro started to choke and Ella gave him 5 abdomen thrusts,
and he started to feel better. And Yun Ping started to call 911. No emergency today, but we had lots of fun.

We miss you a lot!!! Love from your 24/7 am class

Greetings from Berkeley

2009-05-11T21:39:00.000-07:00

You guys are funny!

Of course, I think of you all the time, but today the Room 101 Morning Students earned "extra credit" in my thoughts.

I had just ordered a super burrito when, as I watched the guy behind the counter splash guacamole onto my carne asada and beans, I thought of your guacamole party post on the blog. In the photo I could clearly see that Pedro was "cutting up" in class again.

A "special shout out" to Kai Yan! He knows how to make me feel better with not one but - count 'em - two posts on the blog - - with photos! Thanks, buddy!

Spelling Words for Friday, May 15

2009-05-10T18:36:00.000-07:00

1. first aid

2. safety

3. prevention

4. breathing

5. pressure

6. medics

7. thrusts

8. choking

9. explosion

10. poisoning

11. dangerous

12. protection

13. accident

14. swallow

15. pesticides

16. illnesses

17. child-resistant

18. demonstrate

19. exposed

20. medicines

21. chemicals

22. original

23. eliminate

24. immediately

25. injury

We still miss you!!!

2009-05-08T10:47:00.000-07:00

Hi Richard, How do you feel? We hope you feel better. Prosperity showed up to class today
like a new moon. He's going back to the Big Apple to try life over again, a new beginning. Don't
forget to celebrate Mother's Day on Sunday. Try to go to church with your Mom, even though you said you'll never go. We had another fire drill today to practice, in case there's a real one. Now
we've had two fire drills while you've been gone.
Don't forget to take your dog for a walk! Is the dog your daughter or girlfriend? Please let us know. BTW, Kathleen says" I miss you everyday." We hope that we see you at the class trip.
It's happening! Much love from your 24/7 am class.

Three Wheels Motorcycle

2009-05-07T21:34:00.000-07:00

Generally, motorcycles are more save gas than the auto cars. But motorcycles are more dangerous. I thought that if there are manufacturers produce three or four wheels motorcycles, it would be the good things for saving energy.
Yesterday, a peculiar car attracted my sight. It was parked on International Boulevard near our school. When I approached it, I almost made sure that it was a three wheels motorcycle. I was afraid of losing this nice opportunity; I took some pictures of it immediately.
I hope that this motorcycle will be developed to be other kind of saving energy transportation.

We Enjoyed Guacamole, Mexican Food

2009-05-06T20:59:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, teacher Linda introduced Mexican food, Guacamole, and its recipe to us. She brought all of materials and tools to the class.
Our chef Pedro and Chef Ella made Guacamole as teacher’s guide. Classmates stood around our chefs waiting for a taste. Several minutes later, our classmates had tasted delicious Guacamole.
Thanks for Linda, Pedro and Ella.

Slope Mower

2009-05-05T23:02:00.000-07:00

In spring, the Plants, flowers and grasses grow up fast. Especially the grasses grow up faster than the other plants. Usually people will cut the grasses short in their front yard or back yard with a mower every week. They cut the grasses for good looking.

I have had a question in my mind for a long time. I know that many residences are built on the top of slope and the grasses grow on the slope. My question is that how the residents or workers cut the grasses with an ordinary mower on the slope. Although people could let the grasses grow up freely, the grasses will dry out in summer. It is very dangerous to the residents because the dry grasses catch fire easily.

One day, I saw a scene. It solved my question. A flock of sheep were eating grasses on the slope. These slope mowers were not only needed not gas or electricity but also environmental protection.

Spelling Words for Friday, May 8

2009-05-03T21:25:00.000-07:00

1. swine flu outbreak

2. face masks

3. virus

4. disease

5. hand sanitizer

6. emergency

7. affected

8. frequently

9. effective

10. spreading

11. symptoms

12. fatigue

13. headache

14. sore throat

15. cough

16. respiratory

17. vaccine

18. epidemic

19. preparation

20. catastrophe

21. protection

22. restrictions

23. medications

24. pandemic

25. infection

We Miss You!

2009-05-01T11:16:00.000-07:00

Hi Richard, How are you feeling? We miss you very much. " Don't forget to turn on the computer,"
Pedro said. "Do you eat more food now?" said Kai Yan. "We hope we can see you at the class
trip." said Ayako. "Don't be scared to come to the class. I don't have the swine flu." said Pedro
because he hasn't gone to Mexico yet. "If you want some exercise, come to my backyard" said
Ella. "We hope you feel better soon" said Ling. " I came to class early everyday to see you to
say good morning, and I don't want you to say good afternoon to me":) said Yun Ping. We love
you wonderful class. Don't teach too much English to your dog! We all love you and need you.
Your 24/7 class in the morning

ENSENADA,MEXICO

2009-04-29T11:42:00.000-07:00

SANTA CATALINA ISLAND

2009-04-29T11:14:00.000-07:00

CARNIVAL PARADISE

2009-04-29T11:06:00.000-07:00

CARNIVAL PARADISE

2009-04-29T10:50:00.000-07:00

Spelling List for May 1

2009-04-26T21:57:00.000-07:00

California Academy of Sciences
aquarium
museum
planetarium
exhibit
herpetologist
species
renovated
canopy
naturalist
natural history
evolution
diorama
tortoise
penguin
invertebrate
climate change
habitats
pendulum
Earth's rotation
coral reef
aquatic
terrestrial
anemone
amphibian

2009-04-26T21:38:00.000-07:00

Academy of Science in Golden Gate Park

2009-04-20T21:40:00.000-07:00

I hope you will join us on the field trip to the Academy of Sciences in Golden Gate Park.

Click here to see photos of some of the Academy of Science exhibits.

Click here to explore the museum web site .

The Five People You Meet in Heaven

2009-04-20T14:50:00.000-07:00

Hi, Richard, Linda and my classmates:

Several weeks ago I ran into a novel named The Five People You Meet in Heaven in the Asian Branch of Oakland Public Library. The book is written by Mitch Albom, the author of the number one New York Times bestseller Tuesday with Morrie, I was absorbed in it at the first glance. The edition of the book I got from the Oakland Library was published in Hong Kong in Traditional Chinese. As I read more and more, I was deeply moved and attracted to this wise and imaginative book. So I returned to the library and borrowed three other editions of this novel from two different branches of the Oakland Public Library - the English edition, the simplified Chinese edition, and the Audio Book edition. Maybe editions in Spanish or other languages that I don’t understand are also available. In 2004, The Five People You Meet in Heaven was adapted to a TV movie, but it is a pity that I haven’t found the DVD yet.

I am glad and honored to share this lovely story with every one of you. When I set out to write a summary of the novel to recommend the amazing book, I found a lot of information about the novel posted on web. I collected some of the brilliant introductions and posted them here. I hope you enjoy and love the story.

About the book

Eddie is a grizzled war veteran who feels trapped in a meaningless life of fixing rides at a seaside amusement park. As the park has changed over the years -- from the Loop-the-Loop to the Pipeline Plunge -- so, too, has Eddie changed, from optimistic youth to embittered old age, His days are a dull routine of work, loneliness, and regret.

Then, on his 83rd birthday, Eddie dies in a tragic accident, trying to save a little girl from a falling cart. With his final breath, he feels two small hands in his -- and then nothing. He awakens in the afterlife, where he learns that heaven is not a lush Garden of Eden, but a place where your earthly life is explained to you by five people who were in it. These people may have been loved ones or distant strangers. Yet each of them changed your path forever.

One by one, Eddie's five people illuminate the unseen connections of his earthly life. As the story builds to its stunning conclusion, Eddie desperately seeks redemption in the still-unknown last act of his life: Was it a heroic success or a devastating failure? The answer, which comes from the most unlikely of sources, is as inspirational as a glimpse of heaven itself.

In The Five People You Meet in Heaven, Mitch Albom gives us an astoundingly original story that will change everything you've ever thought about the afterlife -- and the meaning of our lives here on earth. With a timeless tale, appealing to all, this is a book that readers of fine fiction, and those who loved Tuesdays with Morrie, will treasure.

Click here to read the beginning of The Five People You Meet in Heaven.

Spelling Words for Friday, April 24, 2009

2009-04-19T22:44:00.000-07:00

1. protect

2. environment

3. sustainable

4. recycle

5. reusable

6. organic

7. conserve

8. compost

9. altered

10. dumps

11. emissions

12. landfill

13. potent

14. wastes

15. calamity

16. pollution

17. global warming

18. uninhabitable

19. drought

20. parched

21. reservoir

22. devastating

23. decompose

24. biodegradable

25. conservation

Spelling List for Friday April 17

2009-04-13T11:04:00.000-07:00

regarding
misrepresentation
description
dynamic
conflict
proper
academic
vital
oral
assert
recommendation
handle
accept
access
asset
necessary
overall
friendly
formal
discuss
offer
aspect
conduct
ethical
mock

Hi classmates!

2009-04-08T19:16:00.000-07:00

How have you been guys? Do you still remember me? I apologize because I haven't gone to school for a while. The reason is because I have been busy doing many college projects. However, I'm happy to see your posts! I'd like to visit you, and I hope to do it soon. =)

How is Richard doing? I heard that he has absented a couple of times; therefore, Linda has been substituting him... I hope he recovers very soon and feel better every day! I miss you guys, and I hope you're doing excellent. ;)

Here is a picture with some of my classmates from the college. We were having a break after all the work we've done. I hope you like it! :) See you soon...!

HI, Classmates,

2009-04-03T11:45:00.000-07:00

My name is Ya Ling. I will post a story soon!

Spelling Words for Friday April 3

2009-03-31T09:19:00.000-07:00

1. gardening: My mother is gardening. She is planting vegetables and flowers.
2. composting: I will put the composting soil to make a rose garden.
3. rotation: I rotated the soil and planted some seeds.
4. propagate: In the Springtime, everything will start to propagate.
5. pollinate: Bees can pollinate from one flower to another.
6. relationship: My Mom and I have a good relationship.
7. vegetation: My neighbor planted some vegetation in her garden.
8. sprouting: Leaves are sprouting from the trees.
9. blooming: Many flowers are blooming in Spring.
10. allergies: A lot of people have flower allergies in Spring.
11. pollen: Pollen is attractive to bees.
12. rebirth: Rebirth of flowers happens in Spring.
13. crop selection: In the Spring, the farmer is choosing vegetables for his crop selection.
14. renewal: The farmer needs to renew his field.
15. pesticide-free: People like to eat vegetables that are pesticide-free.
16. organic: Organic food is grown without pesticides.
17. horticulture: Last weekend there was a horticulture demonstration in S.F.
18. botany: Some students take botany classes at school.
19. flourish: Plants need sun and water to flourish.
20. nursery: If you want to buy plants you can go to the nursery.
21. diversity: A diversity of vegetables are good to plant in Spring.
22. varieties: Nurseries carry many varieties of seeds.
23. environment: The school environment is decorated with flowers.
24. recycling: We are recycling cans, paper, and plastic bottles.
25. hibernation: In Springtime some animals come out of hibernation in the morning.

Spelling words for March 27

2009-03-23T08:36:00.000-07:00

1.predict
2.emerging
3.minimize
4.layoffs
5.influential
6.indicate
7.immunity
8.advantage
9.recession
10.accelerates
11.economy
12.scrutiny
13.contractors
14.freelancers
15.corporation
16.slayings
17.references
18.candidates
19.expansion
20.organization
21.process
22.optimism
23.administration
24.primary
25.expectation

Practice Makes Perfect

2009-03-22T18:24:00.000-07:00

"Practice makes perfect" is a famous saying. It means that when people are learning to do something new, they will be good at it only after having lots of practice. They have to do it over and over again. I have had such experiences for a year. To learn English well, we must speak more, listen more and read more. In the beginning, I couldn't speak English fluently, so I took every chance to practice, such as going to an English class, talking to people who speak English, reading English blogs, and when I saw words I didn’t understand on the street, I would look them up at home later. I kept practicing for a long time. My spoken English is much better than before. My English listening and reading have also improved. Another example is typing. When people first learn to type, they are not familiar with the keyboard and can't type very fast. But as long as they keep practicing, they're sure to have both their typing speed and accuracy improve. Practice makes perfect! This encourages me to practice more and more.

Spelling List for March 20

2009-03-16T11:03:00.000-07:00

appropriate
willingness
focus
evaluation
capable
accomplishment
reward
transcript
portfolio
effective
termination
posture
facial expression
first impression
summons
illiterate
motivate
contribution
proficient
inflation
deflation
stagnation
demand
supply
participate

Spelling Words for March 13, 2009

2009-03-09T17:32:00.000-07:00

1. patient

2. energetic

3. organized

4. efficient

5. reliable

6. flexible

7. creative

8. honest

9. confident

10. helpful

11. following instructions

12. respectful

13. careful

14. enthusiasm

15. punctual

16. prepared

17. good listener

18. clarification

19. valuable

20. assured

21. follow up

22. demonstrated

23. anxious

24. problem solver

25. concerned

Spelling List for March 6

2009-03-02T11:00:00.000-08:00

administrative assistant

detail oriented

accountant

works well with numbers

fire fighter

flexible

reporter

well organized

landscape architect

creative

mail carrier

efficient

assembler/factory worker

hard working

receptionist

great with people

dental assistant

responsible

security guard

dependable

hair stylist

artistic

business owner

works well under pressure

characteristics

Spelling List for February 27

2009-02-23T09:37:00.001-08:00

résumé
application
interview
experience
qualifications
education
position
professional
special skills
certificate
salary
benefits
schedule
attitude
flexible hours
dependability
vacation days
temporary
references
employer
employee
employment
responsibilities
advancement
opportunity

Hello Richard, LindaMy Classmates

2009-02-22T22:39:00.000-08:00

Hello, Richard, Linda and my classmates,

How are you? I saw your pictures on the Blog. It looks like everyone is healthy and happy. You know? I totally miss the class. Now, I have been working more days in San Francisco since I got back from Thailand. I went to Thailand because my brother got married. I took some pictures in Thailand to show you.

The first two photos are of one of my favorite places. It is named James Bond Island. This Island was in the James Bond movie "The Man With the Golden Gun".

The last photo is my family with our new sister-in-law.

Enjoyed Dim Sums

2009-02-12T22:05:00.000-08:00

Last month, 30th, teacher Linda Newman and part of our new and old students had a lunch together in Happy Valley restaurant.

The day before that day, Linda introduced several kinds of Dim Sum in the class with pictures and texts, since some of our classmates had never eaten Chinese food. So we enjoyed eating Dim Sums and fry noodle.

We had a chance to communicate each other with English and other languages in the restaurant.

Morning Class Jokes and Riddles

2009-02-10T12:46:00.000-08:00

Pedro’s Riddles

What did one math book say to the other math book?

What is invisible and smells like carrots?

Yun Ping’s Jokes

A successful man is one who makes more money than his wife can spend. A successful woman is one who can find such a man.

A man will pay 2 dollars for a one dollar item that he wants. A woman will pay 1 dollar for a 2 dollar item that she doesn’t want.

A woman worries about the future until she gets husband. A man never worries about the future until he gets wife.

Jie’s Jokes

When I walked up to the ATM at the bank, I noticed that someone left his card in the slot in the money machine. I looked up the person in the phonebook and gave him a call.

“I found your ATM card,” I told the man who answered. He then asked hopefully, “You didn’t happen to find my sunglasses, too, did you?”

Spelling list for February 20 Medical Specialties

2009-02-10T10:46:00.001-08:00

Medical Specialists (Physicians)

cardiologist

gastroenterologist

podiatrist

psychiatrist

hematologist

orthopedist

internist

gynecologist

oncologist

pediatrician

obstetrician

urologist

anesthesiologist

radiologist

ophthalmologist

surgeon

dermatologist

non-physician specialists

dentist

optometrist

chiropractor

orthodontist

pharmacist

psychologist

physician’s assistant

nurse

Spelling List for February 13

2009-02-09T10:42:00.001-08:00

Democratic Party

Republican Party

Congress

House of Representatives

Senate

Chief Executive

Commander in Chief

stimulus package

cabinet

filibuster

cloture

debate

geography

hemisphere

equator

latitude

longitude

tropics

temperate zone

polar zone

Tropic of Capricorn

Tropic of Cancer

Arctic Circle

Antarctic Circle

continent

Spelling List for February 13

2009-02-09T10:42:00.000-08:00

Democratic Party

Republican Party

Congress

House of Representatives

Senate

Chief Executive

Commander in Chief

stimulus package

cabinet

filibuster

cloture

debate

geography

hemisphere

equator

latitude

longitude

tropics

temperate zone

polar zone

Tropic of Capricorn

Tropic of Cancer

Arctic Circle

Antarctic Circle

continent

Spelling Words for Friday February 6

2009-02-03T09:09:00.000-08:00

saturated fat
sodium
calories
carbohydrates
protein
ingredients
cholesterol
vitamins
fiber
nutrition
minerals
label
serving size
medicine
insurance
advise
habitual
interpret
identify
deductible
reputation
premium
prescription
coverage
dependants

2009-02-02T11:08:00.000-08:00

Dear students,

What a wonderful last day celebration I had with you at Happy Valley Restaurant! It was a great way to celebrate Chinese New Year at the same time. Thank you for being such a terrific class

and I learned so much from you too. Continue your English studies with your outstanding teacher Richard. See your soon.

Best wishes,

Teacher Linda

2009-01-30T21:37:00.000-08:00

Welcome Teacher Richard back to 101 morning class

We very need you

101 morning class All student

2009-01-27T12:44:00.000-08:00

http://mp3.iciba.com/viewsong-7833.shtml

Spelling Words for Friday, January 30, 2009

2009-01-26T22:01:00.000-08:00

1. celebration

2. lucky

3. firecrackers

4. restaurant

5. dragon

6. patient

7. happiness

8. gunpowder

9. even-tempered

10. presents

11. envelopes

12. confident

13. delicious

14. trustworthy

15. cheerful

16. exaggerated

17. preparation

18. wealth

19. compassionate

20. relatives

21. courageous

22. longevity

23. ancestors

24. strength

25. festival

2009-01-19T23:15:00.000-08:00

Spelling Words for Friday, Jan. 23, 2009

1. inauguration

2. former

3. election

4. president

5. beginning

6. parade

7. soldiers

8. band

9. ceremony

10. chief justice

11. Supreme Court

12. Bible

13. declare

14. solemnly

15. swear

16. faithfully

17. execute

18. ability

19. preserve

20. protect

21. defend

22. constitution

23. speech

24. oath

25. inaugural balls

2009-01-12T13:58:00.000-08:00

Spelling Words for Friday, January 16, 2009

1. minister

2. assassin

3. violence

4. protest marches

5. separate

6. equality

7. nonviolent

8, theology

9. segregated

10. persuade

11. inspired

12. courage

13. struggle

14. arrested

15. justice

16. famous

17. organized

18. advancement

19. honor

20. dream

21. self-evident

22. character

23. truth

24. powerful

25. possible

Spelling words for Friday January 9th

2009-01-06T08:57:00.000-08:00

1 stressed
2 disease
3 workout
4 risk
5 careful
6 tempted
7 self-confidence
8 safety
9 heart rate
10 vital
11 barrier
12 exercise
13 diabetes
14 research
15 terminal
16 intervals
17 reflective
18 dangerous
19 intersections
20 calories
21 resistance
22 realize
23 obstacles
24 fitness
25 neighborhood

Good Morning, Students!

2009-01-05T07:41:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the 2009 school year!

Last night I spoke with Teacher Linda and she told me that working with you is a pleasure.

I hope you redouble your efforts to improve your English skills during this new year.

Thank you for the wonderful cards!

I hope to return to Room 101 in February. In the meantime, I'll continue looking for your stories on the blog.

Richard

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

2008-12-25T19:58:00.001-08:00

Hi classmates and teacher!

how are you? I hope you are enjoying this Christmas season with your family and friends.

I celebrated Christmas in Mexico with my family and relatives. Yesterday I ate a big dinner with my family in my parents' restaurant. We were like 30 persons enjoying together the Christmas holiday. At 12:00 am, we gave gifts and best wishes to the whole family. My house was packed with relatives and my parents' friends. Some of them were playing Mahjong, watching movies, playing some games and dancing. They left at 6:00 am!

I could not hang out with my friends because the city has been having a bad social situation. People are getting killed almost everyday! It is something that made me sad. Now, people are inside their homes very early. However, our Christmas celebration was great! And I hope you got a lot of fun and surprises too.

I hope that this Christmas season brings you special happiness, good health, wealth, love and peace. And also, I hope that all your dreams and goals come true!

Richard, I hope you received our cards and you liked it! We miss you... I hope you are getting stronger every day! =)

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year Guys!

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

Merry Christmas to Teacher Richard

2008-12-24T12:43:00.000-08:00

Teacher Richard:
I wish you have a Merry Christmas and have a wonderful New Year
Have a strong body in a New Year.

Amy Hoi
12/24/2008

Holiday celebrattion

2008-12-19T12:05:00.000-08:00

We had a great time celebrating Hanukkah at Christmas. Ha To brought a huge cake from Chinatown and we all ate it. It was delicious! Too bad you weren't here. We all miss you and wish you a happy and healthy new year. Get stronger and come back soon! We all love you! Students from your morning class.

2008-12-19T11:53:00.000-08:00

Thanks for the Cards!

2008-12-16T11:17:00.000-08:00

Thanks for the cards!

You guys know how to make me smile.

I heard about your trip to the Oakland Museum.

I am getting stronger every day.

I'll write more soon.

Until then, enjoy the holidays!

Spelling Words for Dec. 19, 2008

2008-12-15T21:56:00.000-08:00

1. reindeer

2. menorah

3. ornament

4. dreidel

5. sleigh

6. mistletoe

7. joyous

8. conscience

9. eternal

10. determination

11. exhausted

12. possession

13. peculiar

14. ornate

15. disapproval

16. elegant

17. wrapped

18. confused

19. Hanukkah

20. miracle

21. Christmas carols

22. wreath

23. instantly

24. decoration

25. Santa Claus

Spelling Words for Dec. 12, 2008

2008-12-08T21:20:00.000-08:00

1. retired

2. refugee

3. schedule

4. carefully

5. simultaneously

6. achievements

7. prioritize

8. accomplish

9. sacrifice

10. allocate

11. realistic

12. deadlines

13. controversial

14. access

15. integrate

16. authority

17. offend

18. motivation

19. excuses

20. achieved

21. destroy

22. arguments

23. champion

24. language

25. especially

A Strange Man

2008-12-02T21:00:00.000-08:00

Two months ago, something strange happened to me. I was walking alone to Neighborhood Center Adult School. While I was walking, I saw a truck passing very slow, and I felt that someone was watching me. There was a man driving the truck, and I noticed that he was following me. I was scared because I was alone, and I did not know the city well. The man parked the truck and came close to me. He walked with me and started to talk to me. He asked my address, phone number, the place where I was going to, and if I had time to eat something with him. I wanted to run, but I dinnot want to be impolite, so I just answered some of his questions. I did not give my confidential information.

He had followed me for many blocks! When I got into the school, he stood outside. After he class was over, I was worrying to see the man again. Fortunately, he had already left. Now, I rather take the bus!

Thanksgiving Day

2008-12-02T19:23:00.000-08:00

Here is a picture that my friend took when we were in her house celebrating Thanksgiving.

Hi classmates and teacher!

How was your Thanksgiving day? I hope it was great, and you enjoyed it with your family.

This was the first time that my sister and I celebrated the Thanksgiving. My family did not consider it as a holiday, so we never celebrated it.

My sister and I were invited to my friend's house on Thanksgiving. Her relatives made a big dinner: a delicious big turkey, tamales, salad, pinto beans, and much more. The house was full with friends and relatives.

After dinner, we gave thanks to the people we love, especially to God. Then we played music and danced, but a lot of us were full and sluggish, so we played karaoke. We also started to play games and had a lot of fun.

I'm glad that they invited us and allowed us to share the table with them. And also, I'm glad being here, in the United States, where my sister and I could learn more about American culture and meet new people!

Your am class celebrating Thanksgiving Day

2008-12-02T11:47:00.002-08:00

Hi Richard, We all miss you very much and hope that you're feeling better everyday.

Spelling Words for December 5,2008

2008-12-01T11:30:00.000-08:00

religious
prospered
frivolous
threat
investors
celebrated
disagreement
sighted
exceptionally
interfering
settlement
devastating
construct
voyages
enormous
custom
annually
continued
adopted
appointed
neighbor
fleeing
attached
worried
morality

The Key to Long Life

2008-11-25T18:59:00.000-08:00

Click here to discover on man's ideas about the key to long life.

Eno's Group-Sing Song List:

Can't Help Falling In Love
Love Me Tender
Keep On the Sunny Side
Sixteen Tons
Will the Circle Be Unbroken
Dream
If I Had a Hammer
Love Hurts
I'll Fly Away
Down By the Riverside
Chapel of Love
Wild Mountain Thyme
Que Sera, Sera
Cotton Fields

Spelling Words for Wednesday Nov 25th

2008-11-25T08:18:00.000-08:00

persecution
Pilgrims
cornucopia
starve
feast
invite
Native Americans
upheaval
colonization
diverse
indigenous
acorns
dessert
vegetable
beverages
stuffing
pumpkin pie
cranberry sauce
turkey
carbohydrate
immigrants
England
fulfilment
grateful
shamanism

Spelling Words for Friday, November 21 Quiz

2008-11-18T07:45:00.000-08:00

location

association

vehicle

volunteer

bulletin board

suggestions

hangouts

Notices

Flyers

marathon

bingo

contesting

meditation

session

exercise

expressions

appointment

certain

senior

superior court

league

borrow

conversation

event

guide

Spelling Words from The Tell-Tale Heart

2008-11-10T10:32:00.000-08:00

nervous

resemble

cautious

courage

chuckle

groan

pity

envelop

patiently

terror

lantern

refrained

anxiety

shriek

cunning

conceal

audacity

enthusiasm

triumph

corpse

paced

chatted

suspected

hypocritical

hideous

My High School Graduation

2008-11-08T13:44:00.000-08:00

Hi teacher and classmates..! I’m going to narrate one of the most recent events in my life: my graduation from high school. It was so exciting and fun, but it was sad too, because it was the last day that my classmates and I were together.

It was on June 5, 2008. My classmates and I had been stressed for many weeks, and also months before. Prior of the ceremony, all of us had to make many preparations, such as making a budget of all the things we would need: choosing two salons, one for the graduation ceremony, and the other one for the graduation night party, soliciting a group of musicians, deciding the food we would serve, and many other things!

At the beginning of the graduation ceremony, all of us were wearing our gowns, and we got the certificates and diplomas. After that, our godparents spoke some words and played a presentation of pictures of our graduating class. My classmates and I were crying!

When the ceremony finished, we went home to dress up in our party clothes. We looked elegant. At night, we started the party and had a lot of fun. We were dancing and taking pictures all the night. At the end of the party, all of us went to the “after”. I mean, we continued our party in another place! Finally, I went back home at five o’clock in the morning. I remember it as if it had happened yesterday.

The Tell Tale Heart by Edgar Allan Poe

2008-11-07T11:15:00.001-08:00

Click here to listen to the story of the Tell-Tale Heart.

I hope you like it!

Click here for additional Edgar Allan Poe resources on the web.

The Love of Ganesha

2008-11-06T23:50:00.000-08:00

Hi, every one

I would like to talk about my new job in S.F. I was looking for a job for a while, which not in a restaurant any more. Three weeks ago my friend told me to go to talk with the lady who owns a shop in S.F. The shop is named “The love of Ganesha”. I’m a sales clerk now. I sell jewelry, clothes, Crystals, incense, scares, bags, statues of Buddha, statues of Hindu God, pillows, yoga pants. The Most of things came from Indian, Thailand and Southeast Asian. I love this job because first, the location in height-Ashbury neighborhood. I have been live in S.F. for year, before live in Oakland. I used to go to height street to watched hippie people, see decoration in shops and house. Second, working in here I feel like working near Royal Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok such as the smells, sound, colorful clothes, meditation room and arts on the well. I love the whole energy of this store. Third, I meet a lot of different people every day. Some people are tourists and some people are neighbor. They always share of their story to me.

*Also the shop donate money to help poor kids in Thailand, which when you are shopping there

Happy Birthday!!!

2008-11-06T08:37:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday
Student and friend
It is an honor
To be be witched again

The Democratic Spirit

2008-11-04T23:11:00.000-08:00

Every day I have to drive along Highway 80 four times. There is a pedestrian bridge in Berkeley that crosses over Highway 80. On the days before Election Day, when I went back home after school and went to Oakland again from home in the afternoon, I saw many people standing on that bridge. They showed off their banners to drivers who came and went along Highway 80. They stood almost side by side displaying their opposite views. But the people didn’t quarrel or fight with each other even though they disagreed. They were very peaceful. They waved their hands to the drivers. They only hoped that people would support their views. And some drivers honked their horns to respond to them.

This thing lets me know what the democratic spirit is. American people have mature democratic thinking and they can tolerate different opinions.

What's Up?

2008-11-04T15:32:00.000-08:00

Gooooood morning! Actually, I don't have enough time to write on the blog, but after I have seen a picture of Prosperity I decided to write a few sentence. I just wanted to say to Prosperity that " You really look like a former famous American boxer ( MTS ), man ". That's all. Oh you all have a good day, and I'll see you someday.
Richard, don't forget this Thursday!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'll call You.

Prosperity

2008-11-03T17:28:00.000-08:00

He is a student in room 101 morning class. He's name is Prosperity. He has a inquiring personality. Today teacher showed us some picture that took of halloween's day. Then Prosperity asked me how to put the picture on the blog. So I promised him and took his picture. I said: I will do it tonight.

Prosperity I will show you tomorrow!!