"Helping YOU Take Center Stage"!

Malden High School Oral Communications Classes Nov 2011

2011-12-01T08:56:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday November 29, 2011 I was the guest speaker for Mrs. Razzino's Oral Communications Classes.

"Sherri is a great presenter, I loved how she was very enthusiastic about everything. She really makes me want to pay attention, Very social"! Rodney B. (second period)

"I think Sherri is a good speaker who knows how to engage with the audience well, she is humorous and has great credentials as well". Jacqueline B. (first period)

Here is Mrs. Razzino's Thank You/Testimonial Letter: November 30, 2011

Dear Sherri,

Thank you again for giving my classes your time. Your presentation today to both of my Oral Communication classes was “right on” you touched upon everything I having been saying in class especially the question the outline and 3 X 5 note cards. It is nice to have an adult from the work world reinforce the necessary items for good public speaking. Your use of the cards for the ice breaker in each class worked very well. My students liked the interaction of the entire class getting into motion. I know at first they were rather sluggish, but at the end they really picked up steam about “taking center stage” and giving it their best shot.

They are also amazed that a real adult will take the time to come to class and work with them. Sometimes I think students believe that what they do in class has no “real world” value. Today you showed them the complete opposite.

We spent 20 minutes of class time today discussing your visit and I am happy to say that you rejuvenated my students’ interest in becoming better speakers. I am hoping that their next presentation will bear out all you reinforced for them.

Here are some reactions they had after a night of sleeping on the experience. I know they gave you feedback on your survey but here is more for you to savor.

“I liked Sherri’s introduction, she was smiley and relaxed”

“The ice breaker was a lot of fun, at first I didn’t want to do it, then I did”

" liked being introduced at front of room, shaking hands was nice, and talking off the top of my head was fun”

“I didn’t think I would like listening, but I did”

Thank you again for spending two class periods with my students. I know they have gained a good deal from your talk, and they had fun to boot. That is a great combination. I cannot believe how fast our time together went. I do hope that we can call on your again. It is always a pleasure and I know my students get so much out of your desire to help them become better speakers.

Sincerely, Karen Razzino, Business Technology Dept. Oral Communications

These note cards were designed by the art students and presented to me by Mrs. Razzino's Oral Comm Classes! Great Art Students/Great Oral Communication Class Students! Nice gift and wonderful testimonials - read more below! I always look forward to presenting Public Speaking Skills to the Malden High School Students! Thank you again for the invitation Mrs. Razzino!
--------

MORE testimonials from Mrs. Razzino's Oral Communications Classes:.

First Class

“I think Sherri is a very good speaker who knows how to engage with the audience well.

She is humorous and has great credentials as well”.

Jacqueline B.

“Sherri is very interesting and not boring in any way, very helpful, smart, just a great presenter". David, S

"Sherri was awesome, I learned so much about being confident

and comfortable when taking center stage".

Cristina D.

"I think Sherri is funny, socially active and extremely open-minded.

The way she moved while speaking really added to her speech".

Jeffery L.

Second Class

"Sherri is a great presenter; I loved how she was very enthusiastic about everything.

She really makes me want to pay attention, very social".

Rodney B.

I enjoyed Sherri coming to our class to talk to us. I like the tip trying

not to use filler words “um” when I am speaking".

Joshi Y

"I think Sherri gave very good and helpful tips that will be useful".

Khris

"Sherri is a great speaker and funny. I will be more confident after today’s presentation

because she had us all bonded together and we had fun doing the exercises".

Qayana Clayton

"Everything Sherri did was awesome and I say thank you".

Louis

"Sherri is a very interesting person which caught my attention. I feel more

confident because she was able to give me feedback right after I presented".

Yanet V.

"I like how Sherri gave good eye contact , she is very interesting and

very funny and she helped me with everything I needed".

Regine E

"Sherrri was absolutely amazing and it was great to have her here in class with us today.

I understand more clearly what makes an effective presentation".

Joviana M.

"Sherri is a good speaker and she is really good at making a connection".

Hiro.

"Sherri was very helpful with presentation and I feel more

confident and I will use tips of not using filler words".

Gifty

"After today’s presentation, I feel more confident about getting in

front of others, especially because of Sherri’s advice".

Emmanuella

"I think Sherri is a good speaker and she says things well and has good coordination.

I like her advice about taking center stage and the more you get use to it and

to use words differently to sound more intelligent".

Carmen F

"Sherri did amazing, I think she covered everything and I like the tip about

using hand motions and props to keep the listener interested".

Rayana Blundell

"Wonderful Job, You gave me a lot of confidence boost.

Next time I present I will give a back story".

Simon

"Sherri was very fun and loud. I liked her as a presenter a lot".

Gionvannie L.

"Sherri provided very helpful feedback and was very friendly. She is a good interacter

with the audience". I feel a little bit more comfortable after today’s presentation.

I learned a little bit more and more valid examples were made.

I will use tips of not swaying back and forth and filler words".

Nygiga P.

"Sherri was a big help, she demonstrated new techniques to help me when presenting,

I learned new ways to be more confident about standing in front of an audience

and to show body language at the appropriate times".

Alex

"I feel more comfortable about getting in front of others and speaking because

of the guest speaker did it really well and the feedback she gave to others made

me think on what to do and what not to do for my next presentation".

Karen.

"You’re really good at talking and explaining the details.

I felt really great and confident when going in front of everybody".

Ashley F.

"Sherri was a very enthusiastic woman which is great and knows how to

speak to people and pronounces her words. She was confident and gave

useful tips like how to stand correctly and not use filler words when to pause".

Joe P.

"I felt I learned a lot more about presenting in front of a group of people.

It was great. Sherri did all she could and knew what she was doing.

She is a very confident person and I love her laugh".

Chantea H

=============================================

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Communication

Communication:

Communication is the activity of conveying meaningful information. Communication requires a sender, a message, and an intended recipient, although the receiver need not be present or aware of the sender's intent to communicate at the time of communication; thus communication can occur across vast distances in time and space. Communication requires that the communicating parties share an area of communicative commonality. The communication process is complete once the receiver has understood the message of the sender.

Oral Communication
Oral communicationOral communication, while primarily referring to spoken verbal communication, typically relies on both words, visual aids and non-verbal elements to support the conveyance of the meaning. Oral communication includes discussion, speeches, presentations, interpersonal communication and many other varieties. In face to face communication the body language and voice tonality plays a significant role and may have a greater impact on the listener than the intended content of the spoken words.in oral communication it is face to face that's why we got to know the others reaction . and we immediately got the feedback

Handsome Blue Afghan!

2011-11-30T08:18:00.001-08:00

This is an afghan that I crocheted for a friend and it looks like he is putting it to great use! VERY HANDSOME - eh?

I have started another one and am almost done with another one for friends cabin in New Hampshire. Will post photo when it is complete!

Afghan
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Afghan_(blanket)

Crochet
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crocheting

Girl Gone Geek!

2011-11-30T08:16:00.000-08:00

Happy 2011 Halloween Sabrina is a GIRL GONE GEEK here!

HappY 14th BdaY Sabrina!

2011-11-30T08:11:00.000-08:00

Some of the cast members went to Friendly's after an OLIVER Performance and we had my nephew Patrick (my brother's son) wait on us and they came over and sang to Sabrina and handed her a FREE Sundae card that some of the waiter's signed.

Sabrina turned 14 on Monday November 14th! Happy 14th!

Theatre Co. of Saugus OLIVER!

2011-11-30T07:35:00.000-08:00

Sherri, Michael (up & coming SuperStar!), Amanda (TCS President), Kosi, Molly, Yesenia, Kathy

Theatre Co of Saugus cast of OLIVER!
http://www.itemlive.com/articles/2011/11/17/news/news19.txt

Oliver was an amazing production with the Theatre Co. of Saugus. I met and friended new peeps and also reconnected with former peeps. I was happy that Sabrina worked back stage but hope that she tries to "Take Center Stage" for our next Holiday Show and 12 Months of Music Revue. Auditions were last nite and are next Tuesday.

See the little superstar in front with the black top hat and blue coat - Michael S? He played the Artful Dodger and is an amazing amazing singer and performer! He hit all his marks, new all his lines and sang all of his lyrics - incredibly impressive!

Last year my daughter Sabrina went on a field trip with her school at the time (St. Pius V) to see Joseph and the Amazing Techincolor Dream Coat. Sabrina came home and expressed how well she thought the lead singer who played Joseph (Michael S.) did. If Sabrina is impressed then I too am impressed. Well, at the Oliver auditions I finally met Michael and now I am REALLY impressed!

Let me just say this on the record now - Michael is a star and could very well become a professional star if he keeps going as he is! I told his parents that if I ever had a son - he is the son that I would be proud to have because in addition to performing he is also a three seasoned athelete (plays baseball and hockey on three hockey leagues !), does well academically (just earned a Math award) and to top all of this off is a very down to earn kid with a great personality, sense of humor and EVERYBODY loves him! APPLAUSE & BRAVO!

But let me also say that I am proud of my daughter and I support what she choses to do too!

SabS & MoMs - The Younger YearS

2011-11-30T06:57:00.000-08:00

It is kind of strange watching your personal history become costume.
gadgetgirl, gadgetgirl, 07-25-07

Sherri & Sabrina Raftery - 2001

A photo of Sabrina & I when she was a toddler and I was a "little Younger too!". I miss the Younger Years - or are should I say the Earlier Days? So many changes have come our way during her journey to the TEEN YEARS. There are so many things that I am no longer allowed to do. And I know that she is asserting her independance of me but there are still so many things that she does depend on me for. It certainly is a "push pull" period.

Next year she will begin high school and then...hopefully off to college...if she decides that is what she wants. Being a MoM has been an amazing journey for me and I hope that one day she will see that I really did try the best I could. AND I really did what I thought was right for her - even though I have learned that just because I thought it was right for her - didn;t mean it was...right for her...

L0ve you more than you;ll know - until it is your turn to be a MoM.

Rainbow!

2011-10-06T10:10:00.000-07:00

We caught this rainbow at our friends Melanie & Rachael's house - it was reflecting on thier airconditioner spotted by Sabrina & Rachael and I just had to take a photo!

rain·bows plural

1. multicolored arc in sky: an arc of light separated into bands of color that appears when the Sun's rays are refracted and reflected by drops of mist or rain. The colors of the rainbow are conventionally said to be red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet.

2. arc of bands of color: a multicolored arc similar to a rainbow

3. bright multicolored sight: an arrangement, display, or sight containing many bright colors or bright multicolored objects "the rainbow of colors on an artist's palette"

4. false hope: a goal, hope, or ideal that is unlikely to be achieved or realized

5. varied assortment: a wide range or varied assortment of things, usually coexisting without clashing

http://www.bing.com/Dictionary/search?q=define+rainbow&qpvt=define+rainbow&FORM=DTPDIA

Smarts Brook Trail - New Hampshire!

2011-10-06T10:00:00.000-07:00

Ellen Witt Clark & Sherri Raftery climbed Smarts Brooks Trail in New Hampshire on Labor Day Weekend September 2011.

As Stevie Nicks sings "climbed a mountain and turned around"!

Sabrina has Braces!

2011-10-06T09:56:00.000-07:00

Sabrina FINALLY getting her top braces at Gentle Dental!

Rumney Marsh Toastmasters Club President Award

2011-10-06T09:37:00.000-07:00

Rumney Marsh Club # 8431 Club President Award presented to the 2010-11 Immediate Past Club President, Sherri Raftery, DTM by 2011-12 Current Club President, Debra Panetta, DTM
on Monday September 5, 2011 Labor Day at 2 Rice Street Saugus Laurel Gardens Community Room in Saugus, MA.

“Sherri worked very hard last year as the Rumney Marsh Toastmaster’s President, where the club earned 9 goals towards our distinguished club designation. “I am pleased to award her with the Presidential Plaque for Leadership. Congratulations to a job well done”! said, Debra Panetta, 2011-12 Rumney Marsh Club President.

Toastmasters International is a non-profit educational organization that teaches public speaking and leadership skills through a worldwide network of meeting locations. www.toastmasters.org
Rumney Marsh Club meets on the first and third Mondays of each month from 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM at the Saugus Laurel Gardens - Community Room 2 Rice Street, Saugus, MA.

http://www.toastmasters.org/

Steve Jobs - Apple Icon of ALL Icons!

2011-10-06T09:17:00.000-07:00

Steve Jobs - Co-Founder of Apple

Icon of ALl Icons! 1955-2011

http://www.apple.com

The HOME in ONE! Standing Ovation

2011-10-06T08:48:00.000-07:00

Ginny & Sherri
http://www.thehome.org/

On Monday September 19, 2011 I was the "Guest Speaker" for THE HOME for Little Wanderers Women & One Golf Tournament. It was a nice event and although I didn;t play golf I spent a few hours riding around on a golf cart watching the Women who were in the tournament play. I was able to speak to some of them. I asked "Whose Winning"? Their reply "We are a team". I certainly used THAT in my speech. Some of asked me what I would be speaking about and during my speech I answered I will be speaking about YOU. I started my speech off with this quote about the simple rules of golf.

"Play the ball as it lies, play the course as you find it, and if you cannot do either, do what is fair". http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Golf

I said to these amazing women that "I suspect that is how most of you live your lived both on and off the course". I went on to share that both my brother and I lived at THE HOME and how I was appreciative for the direction my life took because of The Home. I ended thanking The Home and the Donors for their amazing committment...because without them...us Little Wanderers would have no where to go".

I recieved a standing ovation and it lasted for a bit. Sharing my story as a live testimonial is my way of giving back and letting them know how important it is to have this organization helping children and families in Massachusetts. http://www.thehome.org/

BTW - Ginny is a member of the Walpole Chamber of Commers owns Watson Candies on 471 Main Street, Walpole, MASS (Most incredible coffee shakes), and has the boys from THE HOME work in her store to gain hands-on work experience.

The Home for Little Wanderers - HOME in ONE - Women's Golf Tournament!

2011-08-15T08:15:00.001-07:00

http://www.thehome.org/

September 19, 2011 Woodland Golf Club, Auburndale, MA

Join us for The Home for Little Wanderers' women-only day of fun, fundraising and networking. This unique event is an opportunity to have a great time with an outstanding group of women and feel good about it, knowing that you’ll be raising funds to benefit The Home’s programs for children and families at risk.

Event Schedule:
7:30 a.m. - Registration & Breakfast
8:30 a.m. - Golf
1:30 p.m. - Lunch

Golf format: Four-person scramble; suitable for all levels

Golf clinic: Instead of hitting the course, receive a two-hour lesson from one of the club’s experienced teaching pros. Limited spots available. Contact Jamille Benson at 617-927-0682 to register.

Registration fee: $350

Home in One Committee

Bianca de la Garza, WCVB-TV Channel 5, Honorary Chair

Clemmie Cash, Chair Lora Khederian, Vice Co-Chair Liz Weiler, Vice Co-chair

Thushara Canekeratne
Molly Diggins
Carolyn Golden Hebsgaard
Stacey Gutwillig
Mary Johnson LuAnn Ohanian
Hope Pascucci
Eliza Hapgood Rowe
Caroline Schernecker

For directions and to learn more about the course, visit: www.woodlandgolfclub.com

For more information about the event, please contact:
Jamille Benson
Special Events Manager
617-927-0682 or jbenson@thehome.org

Missed Blogging!

2011-08-15T07:43:00.000-07:00

I have been so very behind on my Blogging and I really miss it! I will be updating posts soon! Know that I have missed writing - but SOOOoooo many events and updates have happened that I will share.

Outstanding Achievement Award!

2011-04-13T09:22:00.000-07:00

So proud of my daughter Sabrina for earning the Outstanding Achievement Blue Ribbon Award at the St. Pius V. Art Fair yesterday! Great Job!

April - National Child Abuse Prevention Month

2011-04-01T06:34:00.001-07:00

http://www.thehome.org/

Blue Ribbon Campaign April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month.

The Home joins other organizations in raising awareness about child abuse and neglect by encouraging individuals and communities to support children and families. Since the 1980s, millions of people across the country have participated in National Child Abuse Prevention Month activities including the Blue Ribbon Campaign by wearing and distributing blue ribbons, organizing community activities, and showing support for organizations like The Home that help keep kids safe and families together.

Many of the 37,000 children confirmed as being abused or neglected in Massachusetts each year are referred to The Home after they have been placed into the custody of the Department of Children and Families. It then becomes our job to try to mitigate the impact of this often unspeakable trauma and give those children the best possible shot at a happy and productive life. But we also work to stop the abuse before it happens, providing intensive counseling and family support services through our community-based programs.

For more information about child abuse prevention visit: http://www.childwelfare.gov/preventing/preventionmonth

Here are some ways you can help:

Donate Now By making a donation to The Home today, you’ll be investing in programs that are proven to stop the cycle of abuse and help provide support to children who have already become victims. Virtual Blue Ribbon A blue ribbon is the international symbol for Child Abuse Prevention.

Show your support by sharing status updates posted on

The Home’s Fan Page on Facebook or changing your Profile Picture to a Blue Ribbon for the month of April. Go to www.facebook.com/thehomeforlittlewanderers to download.

Tweet about it On Twitter? Follow @thehomeorg and retweet the messages we’ll be posting about National Child Abuse Prevention Month throughout April.

Host a Blue Ribbon Event Organize your own event with a "blue ribbon theme" during the month of April to benefit The Home for Little Wanderers, or attend one of our upcoming events.

Expand our Circle of Support Click on the "Tell a friend" link to share this page with family and friends and invite them to join our email list. Share this page on Facebook

--------

READ WHY I GIVE BACK - on THE HOME's Website under Success Stories

http://www.thehome.org/site/PageServer?pagename=about_success_sherri

Honoree Video

http://www.thehome.org/site/PageServer?pagename=news_video_voices_visions_08_honorees

Sherri & Snook-A-Like!

2011-03-28T11:00:00.000-07:00

Sherri and Snook-A-Like (Amanda is a student at New England Hair Academy) http://www.newenglandhairacademy.com/

"Hair" is a tip - pun intended! I like to get my hair done by the students because it is more affordable! The school uses quality products and you only pay for the products - not the service...of course you should still TIP your stylist.

I also go to Empire Beauty School in Malden! http://www.empire.edu/

"Have It YOUR Way"!

2011-03-28T10:52:00.000-07:00

Rachael, Julian Sinner (BK Manager - who is also a wrestler - find him on FB!), Sabrina - Having it "Their Way" - Wearing their Burger King Crowns! Sabrina "Have It YOUR Way" wearing her crown during our visit to Burger King

Burger King in Salem - Have It Your Way!

On Saturday I went to get two new front tires at Pep Boys and while we waited to decided to occupy our time by stopping in at Burger King which proved to be a FUN Time!

Nazareth/HolyChildhood School

2011-03-22T08:41:00.000-07:00

Find US on FACEBOOK: Nazareth Child Care Center/Holy Childhood School 420 Pond St Jamaica Plain MA

Pam Birdfield, Sherri Raftery, Maria defaria, Jackie Johnson, Cheryl birdfield & Evelyn Roach (she got dropped off daily for school) not sure about the gal in the front row. 1976

Friends from my past when I lived at in Visitation Cottage, Nazareth 420 Pond Street, Jamaica Plain MA and attended the Holy Childhood School on the grounds. (more photos & info coming!)

Nazareth BLOG - looking to connect with Staff/Kids from Nazareth - read the blog - and PLEASE connect with US on Facebook! Nazareth Child Care Center 420 Pond St Jamaica Plain MA http://rememberjamaicaplain.blogspot.com/2008/01/nazareth.html?showComment=1255825528713#c1512256560924567350

2010 St. Pius V. Track Team!

2011-03-16T09:19:00.001-07:00

Some of the 2010 St. Pius V. Track Team and coach Jim at the Gloucester Invitational - see times on Cool Running.

St. Pius V. Sports Banquet - Prince Pizza

Jim and Jean husband and wife track Team Coaches

Sabrina;s track team certificate.

The 2010 St. Pius V. Track Team photo taken at the Lower Church Hall.

The St. Pius V. Track Team!

Second Place St. Pius V. Science Fair!

2011-03-16T09:07:00.000-07:00

Sabrina and Sophia earn Second Place at the 2011 St. Pius V. Science Fair on "Force Friction and Pressure"!

AvA - earns MOST OUTSTANDING Plaque and Sabrina earns Second Place!

Seventh Graders who earned Second place!

Sophia & Sabrina swing Brianna with two interlocked phone books and ropes proving - Force Friction & Pressure!

AvA's mother Carmen and Sophia's mother Paula

Seventh Graders!

Jennifer Watson earns Sixth Grade First Place Ribbon!

Painting "The Color Purple"!

2011-03-16T09:03:00.001-07:00

Victoria (Tori) Sabrina (Sabs) & Felix painting Tori's room The Color Purple!

Sisters at Fuddruckers!

2011-03-16T08:53:00.000-07:00

Sherri and Mary - Sisters in the Fudderuckers Car enjoying lunch - Route One Saugus MassRoute One in Saugus Mass.

http://fuddruckersne.com/

Sherri in the red CAR'AH

Cousins Can Be Like Sisters

2011-02-03T17:44:00.000-08:00

COUSINS! Cecilia (my sister Mary;s Daughter) and Sabrina (my daughter)
They are really starting to get much closer and it is nice to see. Mary is my older sister and oldest sibling and Sabrina is my daughter and only child.

Sometimes I wish that I had more children so that she could have siblings...but life doesn;t always work out that way. I hope they grow up to be close friends so they can call one another and help one another through many circumstances that will come their way.

I am going to be having surgery on Monday morning February 7, 2011 and I am very thankful that my sister Mary will be staying with me in the hospital and also coming back to my home to nurse me back to health. Although Mary and I didn;t grow up together due to circumstances that were beyond our control - it means alot to be able to have a sister to call upon when in need.

Thanks sis and I am glad you are my sis and I hope our daughters who are cousins can can bond and lean on one another and become like sisters too.

More on my surgery and all that goes with that soon...

Mom, Sabrina & Freckles

2011-02-03T17:41:00.000-08:00

Mom and Sabrina with our friend's cat Freckles!

Winter Wonderland

2011-02-03T17:10:00.000-08:00

Winter 2011 has been non stop snow! These are photos from where I live in Saugus Massachusetts, some tree branches broke of from the weight of the snow and the whipping of the wind.

Reading and Chill'n Like A Book Worm!

2011-02-03T16:35:00.000-08:00

How CUTE is this! Melrose Public Library.

This is a statue at the Melrose Public Library. He is trapped in the snow and someone put a red scarf on him. I just had to take it - mostly because there are moments that I say to myself - I wish I could take a photo of that and with my new B-day phone I CAN - especially since I learned how to email them to myself!

http://www.melrosepubliclibrary.org/Children.html

Eye Eye Doctor!

2011-02-03T16:32:00.000-08:00

There Sabrina is sitting in the eye doctor chair with those LARGE glasses to help her read the charts - sooo fashionable eh?

And just a note - now that I got this new phone I get to take photos of just about everything and I learned how to email them to myself too!

EYE EYE Doctor!

Last Baby Tooth

2011-02-03T16:25:00.000-08:00

It finally came out, her last baby tooth and the tooth fairy left her four quarters (that was laundry money!)

It is time for braces and now I need to figure out how I am going to afford those. I never had braces - I know there was a part of me that wanted them, but since my teeth are straight I was told I never needed them. BUT I do have an over bite and it has always bothered me. Sabrina has a deep bite and I will do all I can to make sure she gets braces.

I have watched her go from all gums to cutting teeth to growing amazingly milk white baby teeth to losing the first set of teeth to growing her adult teeth. She wants to whiten her second set after the braces.

I am HAPPY to report that she has NEVER had a cavity (so far!).

Wish me luck on the braces journey!

Snook-A-Like!

2011-02-03T16:17:00.001-08:00

Can you stand it? I get my hair did by a SNOOK-A-LIKE!

Me N Snook-A-Like!

Me (Sherri) and Amanda at the New England Hair Academy.

Here is a tip - I get my hair done by the students which saves me money by only paying for the products and not the service - then I tip the students for the service.

http://www.beautyschoolsdirectory.com/schools/new_eng_hair/

She's Going Goth!

2011-02-03T16:13:00.000-08:00

My beautiful Sabrina is going goth. She dyed her hair black, got her more parts of her ear pierced and is begging to get her noise done next. My little lady is starting to define herself in new ways. I am trying to be welcoming of the changing she is presenting...but it is hard to keep up with all of it. Part of me wishes it would be over soon and another part of me says I will miss it someday. I love you Sabrina!

Happy Birthday Fellow Capricorns!

2011-01-04T09:33:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday my fellow Capricorns! Here's to making 2011 an amazing New Year! I hope YOU meet your challenges head on, achieve your goals and help others along the way!

CAPRICORNS ROCK!

Capricorn December 22 to January 19
http://www.findyourfate.com/astrology/Capricorn.htm
Capricorn, whose constellation is known as Capricornus, is one of the oldest of the astrological interpretations.It is ruled by Saturn. Who climbs and schemes for wealth and place?
And mourns his brothers fall from grace, But takes what's due?? It is the Capricorn!!!

Its symbol is the goat. This is sometimes depicted as a sea borne hybrid or Dolphin. The image is often an animal with the body of a goat and the tail of a fish.

Personal Traits

The Capricornian is generally a serious character possessing a wry sense of humor. Independent, steady as a rock, Capricorn reflects earthy qualities that range from clever to vacuous. Mostly cautious, confident, strong willed, reasonable and hard working, Capricorns are a rock upon which to build. They are often aloof, shrewd, practical, responsible and persevering. They are capable of great endurance Reliable in any profession they undertake, but lacking in originality, they usually excel in following up on what someone else has started.

Within prescribed areas, Capricorn is a resourceful, practical manager. These folks set high standards for themselves and others. They are self critical, and work well in a disciplined environment, demanding equal measure from their subordinates.

A careful, ambitious planner, Capricorn moves forward with quiet, deliberate persistence. They can be frugal, possessing the ability to achieve results with minimum effort and expense. Highly organized, they excel in managing several projects simultaneously.

Capricorn will often vie for a position of authority. Once attaining control, they are demanding and exacting in leadership. Although firm, they are usually fair to people they deal with. They value tradition. http://www.findyourfate.com/astrology/Capricorn.htm

Capricorn (♑) is the tenth astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Capricornus. In western astrology, this sign is no longer aligned with the constellation as a result of the precession of the equinoxes. In astrology, Capricorn is considered an introvert sign.[2]

It is also considered an earth sign and one of the four cardinal signs. Capricorn is ruled by the planet Saturn. Being the tenth sign of the zodiac, Capricorn has been associated with the astrological tenth house. Individuals born when the Sun was in this sign are considered Capricorn individuals. Under the tropical zodiac, the Sun enters Capricorn by definition at the moment of winter solstice, or roughly at December 23, and leaves it around January 20. Under the sidereal zodiac, it is currently there roughly from January 15 to February 15.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capricorn_(astrology)

Happy 2011 New Year!

2011-01-04T09:30:00.000-08:00

Waving goodbye to 2010 and Welcoming 2011 with open arms!

Enjoyed both triumphs and tragedies and now it is time to start a new year with new opportunites.

Share what YOU plan on doing in 2011?! Happy 2011 New Year!

Good By 2010!

2010-12-30T14:07:00.000-08:00

It has been an amazing 2010 year. I earned some awards, grew as a leader and help others grow as well. At some point I hope to take the time to write out and high light the positive experiences and the not so easy to take experiences.

Hugs to all of my Fellow Capricorns! I am soooo looking forward to waving good bye to 2010 and welcoming 2011!

Happy New Year 2010 with Music from Abba

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zw1vvGYHQBw

Happy Thanksgiving 2010!

2010-11-24T06:10:00.000-08:00

I wanted to take a moment to express how grateful I am for this amazing 2010 year!

I have so many people to thank for being a part of my life and helping me with so many amazing tasks, events, milestones and many other happenings. I know how important it is to give back and to "Pay it Forward - so I wanted to take this moment to THANK YOU for extending your hand, helping me along and for supporting me in my time of need.

Happy Thanksgiving Friends, Family and Others!

St. Pius V. School

2010-11-20T10:35:00.000-08:00

I attended St. Pius V. Liturgy on Friday November 19, 2010 - Father Joe's Message this morning: "Say Thank You", "Do what is asked of YOU", "Work Hard". Thank you Father Joe!

On Thursday November 18th I attended the St. Pius V. Academic Fair/Ice Cream Social with Sabrina. As I roamed thru halls, admired the students artwork, listened to the 8th graders explain their MATH projects, sat in Sabrina's classroom...it dawned on me that she only has seven months left of seventh grade and then she will be in 8th grade...her last year at St. Pius...made me tear a little, giggle a little and look back on soooo many amazing memories...

Great Job students, teachers, staff and many who are a part of St. Pius V. School and church.

http://www.stpiusvschool.org/

Happy 13th Birthday Sabrina!

2010-11-15T07:41:00.001-08:00

HAPPY 13th Birthday Sabrina!

Sabrina Denise Raftery turned 13 on Sunday November 14, 2010! I hosted her B-day party at Lucky Strikes Bowling and I am happy to report that this MAMA survived a TEEN B-day party! And yes there were boys there.

My sister Mary, neice Cecilia and Sabrina's friend Chanelle slept over and then got up early for Sabrina's indoor soccer game at Topsfield Fair.

So many changes have taken place during the past 13 years and I am a proud mother of a very strong willed and independant daughter. I am trying to keep up with her pace but as she gets older....so do I and I may not have all the stamina to keep up but I sure will try!...wink!

HAPPY 13th B-day Sabrina - Mama Loves You!

Sabrina Denise Raftery 13- years-old! Sabrina Denise Raftery had blue eyes for two years! Sabrina and Me!

2011 Gloucester Invitational - First Place!

2010-10-29T06:43:00.000-07:00

Stage Fort Park Invitational
Gloucester,Stage Fort Park

Gloucester Invitational Gloucester MA,

October 28, 2010

I am soooo proud of my daughter Sabrina who came in 1st place for St. Pius V. and 59th place out of 234 other girls. Goooo Sabrina!

It was a beautiful day up in Gloucester - running right along the water. Moms (Joyce Davis) came to cheer Sabrina on.

============
Stage Fort Park Invitational GIRLS - Gloucester, MA October 28,2010

Place TmPl Name No. School S Ig Pace
59 54 Sabrina Raftery 1226 St. Pius g 12:45 7:20

===========

St. Pius V. - TEAM - Placement in order.
17. St. Pius 54 104 105 109 118 (121)(122) = 490

Sabrina Raftery, Jacksie Raymond, Amber Comeau, Brianna Cao, Kate
Cadigan, Kerry Galvin, Maggie Carroll

Congrats to all the runners, coaches and parents who attended, ran, cheered on!

=====

See this link to review all the runners scores, schools and placements.
http://www.coolrunning.com/results/10/ma/Oct28_StageF_set1.shtml

Catch Her Doing Something RIGHT!

2010-10-26T09:35:00.000-07:00

I am happy to report that I caught my daughter - soon to be 13-year-old doing something RIGHT!

Last week during a St. Pius V. Track meet Sabrina's friend Amber (an amazing runner) wanted to stop during the race because her ankle was bothering her. Sabrina insisted that Amber continue to run and that she would run beside her the entire race - true to her word they finished together and Sabrina didn;t even mind when Amber sprinted at the finish line to beat her! Soo proud of my lady.

Last week at soccer one of the players was not allowed to play because she has a cast on her arm. This player REALLY wanted to play but it is against the regulations. Sabrina went over to her and tried to comfort her saying "I will sit out".

It is these great moments of sportsmanship, compassion and friendship that I appreciate and today the spotlight goes on to Sabrina -I am soooo proud to catch her doing something right for other people!

How about YOU - who have YOU caught doing something right? Share the moment!

Oral Communications Class - Malden High School

2010-10-26T08:17:00.000-07:00

http://www.malden.mec.edu/mhs/

This morning I presented at Malden High School for Mrs. Razzino's Oral Communications Class. I appreciate that Mrs. Razzino invites me back as a guest speaker and today I was pleasantly surprised when I presented with a gift of homemade
notecards from the Malden High School Art Students.

It was a large class today and they were very attenative and did a great job. It is important to get their ideas on how the class went -so here they are some of the comments and testimonials from the Malden High School students in the Oral Communications Class:

"I believe Sherri reaches out well to her audience". Portia

"I feel more confident after today, ice breakers helped me relax, becoming an expert on your topice helps you delet filler words and a well structured outline helps me get over taking center stage. Sherri did an excellent job! She really helped me on becoming a better speaker because of her tips also how she presented and connected with my classmates and I". Jeau

"I learned about postitve and negative feedback". Shakira

"I like how Sherri related to us". Kaoutar

"Sherri was very sweet and nice". Tamarre

"Very Supportive and generous" Tai

"I learned we should walk around"..."Sherri was a good speaker". Janice

"I felt that Sherri did a really good job she was supportive of each speaker". Kevin

"I feel like I learned a few new tips and tricks about presenting that I will try" Student, Malden High

"Sherri was very nice and open and not mean and funny saying "Hollar". Talela

"Sherri is lively and nice". Branslie

"Sherri is a very good speaker". Vernon

"I feel more confident because everyone got in front of the class and the atmosphere was great". Jean

===========

I really enjoyed presenting to the students and my hope is to be able to teach Oral Communications courses at the college level. I am taking all the steps I can to move myself in that direction.

How about YOU - what steps are YOU taking to reach the goals and dreams you set for yourself? I encourage you to keep taking those steps and move forward.

ALSO - if you want to improve your public speaking skills join Toastmasters. http://www.toastmasters.org/

AND - If you would like me to help you improve your speaking/presentation skills - just contact me at: courtjestour@aol.com

My Tween is going to be a Teen Soon!

2010-10-15T09:06:00.000-07:00

I meant to post this yeasterday on October 14th because my Tween is going to be a Teen on Sunday November 14, 2010! I can barely believe it myself with all of the changes that have taken place. But her she is my beautiful daughter Sabrina standing up in Rockport by the sea with her "had to have" Ugs on!

More changing will develop during the teen years for sure. I am not completely ready for them but to be perfectly practical - "13? Bring it On"!

I love you my princess!

Helping YOU Take Center Stage!

2010-10-15T09:00:00.000-07:00

My newest logo! Helping You Take Center Stage! I love the colors and the message. I am learning that it is all a work in progress and feedback really is valuable.

How about YOU? What are you working on? Are you asking for feedback on your projects?

She lost another baby tooth!

2010-10-08T11:01:00.000-07:00

Sabrina lost a tooth last week at home and another one this week at school. This morning she woke up and said that the "Tooth Fairy didn;t care that I lost another tooth". Well, how could the Toothfairy (ME!) managed to do THAT!

We just were looking over all of the teeth the night before that I have been saving during the years in a blue plastic treasure chest box. This box holds all of the other little plastic treasure chest boxes she gets from St. Pius V. when she loses a tooth in school.

I reached for my wallet and said - "Oh yes, the Tooth Fairy DOES care and she left this for YOU". I handed her a one dollar bill know that it didn;t really redeem me but...I wanted her to know I cared! She smiled, took the dollar and went back into her room. Geez I thought to myself...I only get ONE chance left to be the Tooth Fairy because Sabrina only has one remaining baby tooth in her mouth.

It has been an amazing 12 years of watch her with no teeth, then having soar gums and a runny nose when her milky white baby teetch would erupt. Then having some spaces waiting for the baby teeth to come in. Then she would have lose and wiggley teeth that would come out and create more spaces awaiting for the big teeth to come in.

Soon Sabrina's remaining baby tooth will fall out and then all of her big teeth will be grow in. Then on to the braces stage for another two more years.

Do YOU Remember losing your baby teeth? Was it the MONEY that made it special? OR the fact that the Tooth Fair REMEMBERED to leave YOU Money?

Share YOUR favorite Tooth Fairy Story...

------

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tooth_fairy

The legend of the Tooth Fairy is about a fairy that gives a child money or gifts in exchange for a baby tooth that has fallen out. Children typically place the tooth under their pillow at night. The fairy is said to take the tooth from under the pillow and replace it with money once they have fallen asleep.

In early Europe, it was a tradition to bury baby teeth that fell out. The tradition is still very much alive and well in Ireland and Great Britain, where it is common for young children to believe in the Tooth Fairy. When a child's sixth tooth falls out, it is customary for the tooth fairy to slip a gift or money under the child's pillow, but to leave the tooth as a reward for the child growing strong.

Rosemary Wells, a former professor at the Northwestern University Dental School, found evidence that supports the origin of different tooth fairies in the United States around 1900. Folklorist Tad Tuleja suggests postwar affluence, a child-directed family culture, and media turned the myth into a custom. Dr. Wells created a Tooth Fairy Museum in 1993 in her Deerfield, Illinois museum.

Take Center Stage!!

2010-10-01T09:27:00.000-07:00

Here it is my new LOGO!
I am moving away from "Find Your Platform" and replacing it with:
"Take Center Stage"!

I believe if you want to improve your public speaking skills "Take Center Stage"! because the more you are in front of others as a speaker, leader, parent, teacher or any setting - you will gain more confidence and become a better communicator.

Cross Country Track - Lynn Woods

2010-09-30T14:40:00.001-07:00

Lynn Woods Reservation - Lynn Massachusetts

http://www.ci.lynn.ma.us/citydepartments_lynnwoods.shtml

My daughter Sabrina came in third yesterday during the Catholic School meet with St. Pius V. in Lynn, St. Mary's in Beverly and St. Mary's in Melrose. Very proud of my athlete!

LYNN WOODS RESERVATION

The Lynn Woods Reservation was founded in 1881, the second largest municipal park in the United States, is a 2,200 acre municipal forest park located in Lynn, Massachusetts. The Woods offers over 30 miles of scenic trails for hiking, running, horseback riding, mountain biking (not allowed during the winter), cross-country skiing, and nature walks. Three active reservoirs provide pretty pond-like scenery among natural forestland, as well as clean water for the City of Lynn. Dungeon Rock is a well-loved underground tunnel with a history of pirate lore and treasure seekers.

The Rose Garden, Houghton Horticultural Garden, and Amphitheater areas provide more formal settings to explore. The City of Lynn’s Department of Public Works, Park Commission, and Lynn Water and Sewer Commission share jurisdiction and management of the Reservation. The Park encompasses nearly one-fifth of the entire land area of the City and represents a significant natural, watershed, and public recreational resource in eastern Massachusetts.

HAWC's Survivor Story Project

2010-09-09T08:45:00.000-07:00

I was invited and trained to be a part of HAWC's Piolet - "Survivor Story Project" this summer. I met amazing women who were able to benefit from HAWC's services to flee domestic violence. The group will meet once a month. Happy to help in any way that I can.

http://helpabusedwomen.org/

HAWC's Survivor Story Project - is an adaptation of another Domestic Violence Program called REACH to create an environment for survivors to communicate their story to the "outside world". The goal is either spoken or written so that stories can be refined so that when HAWC gets request for speaking requests we can call upon survivors the training is involved to help make the process safe and enpowering.

HAWC's Mission:
The purpose of HAWC is to create social change by taking action against personal and societal patterns of violence and oppression. HAWC provides services and support to victims of domestic violence residing in 23 cities and towns on Massachusetts' North Shore in order that they may make informed, independent decisions about their futures.

HAWC's Programs
HAWC's direct services are provided in 23 cities and towns throughout the North Shore. The main office is in Salem, with satellite offices in Lynn, Gloucester and Ipswich. Advocates are also out-stationed at North Shore Medical Center’s Salem and Lynn campuses and the Beverly police department. Our very active cadres of over 200 volunteers provide hotline support, court advocacy and support group facilitation.

SpareChangeNews Interview Pending!

2010-09-09T08:05:00.001-07:00

Just recieved an invite from Heather who is THE HOME's PR Manager ( www.thehome.org ) to be interviewed by SpareChangeNewspaper ( http://sparechangenews.net/ ) she informed me "it is starting a bio column on interesting people and would like to feature someone who has overcome challenges because The Home has helped them". I eagerly agreed and am awaiting to be contacted by Adam Sennett! I will post the link when it runs!

Spare Change News (SCN) is a street newspaper published in Cambridge, Massachusetts through the efforts of the Homeless Empowerment Project (HEP), a grassroots organization created to help end homelessness.

The newspaper offices are headquartered in the Old Cambridge Baptist Church. 1151 Massachusetts Ave · Cambridge * (617) 497-1595 * http://sparechangenews.net/

The mission of Spare Change News is "to present, by our own example, that homeless and economically disadvantaged people, with the proper resources, empowerment, opportunity, and encouragement are capable of creating change for ourselves in society." ^[1]

The mission of the Homeless Empowerment Project (HEP) is "to empower the economically disadvantaged in Greater Boston through self-employment, skill development, and self-expression. To create forums, including those of independent media in order to reshape public perception of poverty and homelessness." ^[1]

Early history

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spare_Change

The paper was started in Boston in 1992 by a small group of thirteen homeless people ^[2] and one housed advocate, Timothy Harris, who was a member and Executive Director of Boston Jobs with Peace.^[3] In 1994, Harris would go on to use the model of Spare Change News and the Homeless Empowerment Project to found Real Change, a street newspaper in Seattle.

The newspaper's first managing editor, Tim Hobson, said at its founding in 1992 that it would be "heavy on entertainment and politics as well as discussion of homeless empowerment". He also said an important goal was to "put a face on the homeless to show that we're human beings".^[1][4][5]

^----

The Mission of the Homeless Empowerment Project (HEP)

To empower the economically disadvantaged in Greater Boston through self-employment, skill development, and self-expression. To create forums, including those of independent media in order to reshape public perception of poverty and homelessness.

What We Do

Spare Change provides a locus of stability and community, and serves as a nexus of life transition for its primary customers - the newspaper vendors. Meanwhile, the publication is devoted to producing quality editorial content, which includes journalistic, fiction, creative and opinion writing, illustration, and cartooning. This commitment is meant to serve Spare Change's secondary customers, i.e., the readers themselves. Our content is almost always 100% locally produced, with much of it written, drawn and photographed by currently or formerly homeless, or otherwise low-income individuals. Finally, the newspaper serves as a resource for people in need of services such as food, shelter, clothing, employment, healthcare and legal aid, as can be found in the "Situations Wanted" and "Helping Hands" sections of the print edition.^2,3

The headquarters of Spare Change News and the Homeless Empowerment Project are located in the Old Cambridge Baptist Church at 1151 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, MA 02138.

Organizational Structure

The Homeless Empowerment Project is a grass-roots organization comprised primarily of people who have either been homeless, have worked with the homeless or who wish to become active in our effort to impact the tragedy of homelessness and poverty. Our agenda of empowerment through economic and skill development opportunities is carried out in many ways, including through staff, committee and Board of Director membership opportunities.

Board, Committees and Panels

The Board of Trustees of the Homeless Empowerment Project, which meets monthly, is made up of volunteer members from many walks of life, including a minimum of three seats reserved for Spare Change News vendors. In addition, HEP has several standing committees, and ad hoc committees that guide the day-to-day functioning of the organization. HEP opens its doors to all who wish to participate in committee meetings, including the general public.

Participate!

If you would like to get involved as a volunteer, visit the volunteer link: http://www.sparechangenews.net/content/volunteer, or email volunteer @sparechangenews.net

If you would like to sign up to be a vendor, visit the headquarters at the Old Cambridge Baptist Church (1151 Mass Ave. Cambridge, Harvard Square) for an orientation on Wednesdays at 11am.

¹If you would like to book a speaking engagement with the Homeless Speakers' Bureau, contact our office at (617) 497-1595, or email director@sparechangenews.net.

²If you are homeless or living in a shelter and in need of an apartment (e.g., just got your housing voucher), or if you would like to advertise for employment or donations (e.g., furniture), you may place a free classified ad in our Situations Wanted page. Contact editor@sparechangenews.net for details.

³If you are a service provider that caters to homeless or low-income populations and would like to list your organization in the Helping Hands section of Spare Change News, please contact editor@sparechangenews.net for details.

Meet My Seventh Grader!

2010-09-09T07:58:00.001-07:00

Sabrina Denise Raftery started seventh grade on Wednesday September 8, 2010!

Sabrina Denise Raftery

It is official Sabrina went back to school on Wednesday September 8, 2010! It was a smooth transition, she got up, put on her uniform and we drove to St. Pius. I dropped her off and she went over to socialize with her classmates. At 2:30PM I went back to the school courtyard to pick her up, we went to an appointment, went home and changed for her soccer game.

It was a good day and hopefully the start of an amazing year filled with new adventures of a seventh grader! More to post as we go along!

Golden Gavel Distinguished Royalty!

2010-08-30T10:22:00.000-07:00

Sherri Raftery at the Golden Gavel Dinner being honored briefly as a Distinguished District Governor with my Lts Ben and Bil. I love that we were being videoed and it was on the two LARGE screens - felt like royalty (take a peek at the top right).

Alaskan Friend!

2010-08-30T10:15:00.000-07:00

IPD31 Governor, Sherri Raftery, Territory Council General, Linus Ramey, Past International President, Jana Barnhill at the Opening Ceremonies.

Line UP!

2010-08-30T09:57:00.001-07:00

Linus, Sherri

JW Marriott Lobby - Palm Springs

2010-08-30T09:38:00.000-07:00

2009 WCPS, Mark Hunter, Edge Member and finalist,

Maureen Burns Zappala and IPD31G, Sherri Raftery

PDG Angie Key, 2003 WCPS, Jim Key, Professional Speaker,

PDG, Sheryl Roush, IPD31G, Sherri Raftery, Paul Clark

2010-08-26T10:48:00.001-07:00

IPD31 Governor, Sherri Raftery, DTM with IPInternational President, Gary Schmidt at the 2010 International Convention with the Distinguished District plaque.

2005 WCPS, Lance Miller, IPD31G, Sherri Raftery, DTM, Keynote Speaker, Todd Newton, 2003 WCPS, Jim Key at the 2010 International Convention - Palm Desert, CA.

Sherri Raftery carrying the Cyrus flag during the Opening Ceremonies!

IPD31Governor, Sherri Raftery, DTM with PDG, Sheryl Roush - Getting our "Sparkle On"!

Sherri with PIP Chris Ford - sitting at the business meeting.

Past Council Territory General Linus Romey, with PDG Sherri Raftery during the Hall of Fame Ceremony.

Todd Newton and Sherri Raftery - "HOLLAR"!

Sherri and Chris laughing during the business meeting break as the music played and delegates danced!

Friends, Awards and Festivities!

2010-08-26T10:23:00.001-07:00

Sherri Raftery and Rory Vaden - founder of Climb the Stairs.

Sherri, Kathy and Linus.

2010 International President Pat Johnson and IPD31G, Sherri Raftery

Theo Black, Sherri Raftery and Linu R - Council General

Sherri Raftery and Todd Newton

Sherri and the Gang

Distinguished District Governor Plaques

2010-08-24T09:23:00.001-07:00

IPDG Sherri Raftery and IPDG Doug Thiessen with our District Governor Plaques!

Immediate Past District 53 Governor, Marsha Kiley, DTM and Immediate Past District 31 Governor, Sherri Raftery, DTM with our Distinguished District Governor plaques from the Hall of Fame Ceremony in Palm Desert California

Golden Gavel Dinner Banquet

2010-08-23T10:56:00.000-07:00

Golden Gavel Reciepent, Carolyn Kepcher - ROCKED the HOUSE!

Lt. Governor of Ed & Training, Ben Lappen (who was my LGM), Sherri Raftery, Immediate Past District Governor at the Golden Gavel Dinner! Photo Taken by PDG Jim Heeren

Sheryl Roush and Sherri Raftery - SPARLK'TUDERS!

2010 Toastmasters International Convention photos!

2010-08-19T13:06:00.001-07:00

District 31 LGET, Rose Beeson, DTM, Past International President, Helen/Homer Blanchard, DTM and IPD31 Governor, Sherri Raftery, DTM taking a moment to get our yearly "Leading Ladies" photo!

Front Row - 2009-2010 International President, Gary Schmidt, DTM, IPD31 Governor, Sherri Raftery, DTM recieving the Distinguished District Governor and Excellence in Leadership awards, D31 Governor, Bil Lewis, DTM (son of our District 31 first female District Governor), recieving the Excellence in Ed & Training and LGET Ben Lappen recieveing the Excellence in Marketing award, incoming LGM, Stefano McGhee carrying the District 31 banner, PID, Bash Turay, DTM.

Back row - Territory Council General Linus Romey, from Alaska, 2009-10 D31 Trea$urer, Julia Grant,

IPD25 G Jim Sultan, IPD31 Governor, Sherri Raftery, LGET, Eric Vaugh at the President's Dinner Dance - Palm Desert Cal - JW Marriott!

PD31 Governor, Sherri Raftery with PD45 Governor Wendy Harding at the Business Meeting!

PDG31 Sherri Raftery, with PDG Sheryl Roush!

Outgoing ID, Tim Swearingin and IPD31 Governor, Sherri Raftery at the Business Meeting

Please Pardon (Commute) Joe Donovan Pamphlets

2010-07-06T08:38:00.000-07:00

Art work by Eric Percoco

2009 2010 District 31 Hail and Farewell Luncheon Ceremony

2010-07-01T08:10:00.001-07:00

Cherylle Barrett District 31 Area E5 Governor

Maryann Murphy District 31 F3 Governor, Sherri Raftery, DTM District 31 Governor

Euridice Aeoware D31 Area C1 Governor, Sherri Raftery, DTM, District 31 Governor

Pardon Joe Donovan Part 3

2010-06-22T12:18:00.000-07:00

Artistist - Eric Percoco

Broadside: Joe Donovan denied hearing

http://tinyurl.com/3466qta

(NECN) - The NECN documentary, "Unequal Justice?" tells the story of Joe Donovan, serving life in prison for the murder of an MIT student in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Donovan makes a good case that his sentence is a miscarriage of justice.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE NECN DOCUMENTARY "UNEQUAL JUSTICE?"

http://www.necn.com/pages/unequal_justice/0

Joe Donovan is serving a life sentence with no chance of parole even though he never killed anyone and never carried a weapon. A month after the documentary first aired, The Advisory Board of Pardons has denied to even hear Donovan's request for commutation. In a statement, Donovan's attorney said "Today's decision... has not dampened the spirits of the family and friends of Joseph Donovan. We remain firmly committed to winning Joe's freedom, regardless of how long it takes."Brad Puffer, the reporter behind the documentary, joins Jim Braude on Broadside to discuss the developments. http://tinyurl.com/3466qta

Passing along from Carol Hallisey:
Hi All: Joe Donovan was denied a hearing by the Board of Pardons. Many have asked what they could do to help. Until we regroup after this disappointment, it would be great if you would call Governor Patrick's office and ask him to reconsider the decision of the Board of Pardons and ...free Joe Donovan. Please be respectful when stating your request. Gov's phone #'s: 617-725-4005 and toll free: 888-870-7770. Brad Puffer was on the 6:00 Jim Braude news speaking about the denial of the Board of pardons. This segment may be seen on NECN later this evening. Prayers needed. Thanks very much. Carol

Please (Pardon) Commute Joe Donovan # 2

2010-06-21T07:46:00.001-07:00

"...Now new developments in the story could impact

Donovan's bid to be released by the Governor"

Joseph Donovan

(NECN: Brad Puffer) - Joe Donovan is serving a life sentence with no chance of parole. He was the subject of the NECN documentary "Unequal Justice?". He is one of three Cambridge, Massachusetts teenagers charged in the murder of an MIT student in 1992, but the only one still in prison.

More here!
http://www.necn.com/06/14/10/Unequal-Justice-A-Killers-Words/landing_newengland.html?blockID=253675&feedID=4215

View Unequal Justice here!
http://www.necn.com/pages/unequal_justice/0

Shon McHugh ends his letter by saying, "At this time I would like to offer the Rausteins and the Donovans an apology for my actions that caused two families to lose their sons. This seems so hollow considering it doesn't give Mr. Raustein his life back or Joey back the 18 years he lost. There is nothing I can do or say that will repair the damage I have caused. I am terribly sorry! These are things I need to deal with and live with for the rest of my life."

Please Commute Joe Donovan

2010-06-21T06:53:00.000-07:00

"Joseph Donovan, then 17, and another young man accompanied McHugh that night. Joe was charged with "felony murder," a legal theory which holds an "accomplice" accountable for the acts of another".

In this NECN investigative documentary, reporter Brad Puffer revisits the case with jurors, one of Donovan's co-defendants in the case, and with the MIT student walking with Raustein when they were attacked. He also looks at the system that sentenced Donovan to prison, and chronicles Donovan's efforts to win commutation.

Eighteen years after the murder of Yngve Raustein, Joseph Donovan is serving a life sentence for murder - even though he never killed anyone. "Unequal Justice?" premieres Monday, May 10 at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. on NECN. It also airs Saturday, May 15th at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m., or you can watch it in its entirety on NECN.com.

On September 18, 1992, Joseph Donovan started a fight he is paying for to this day. Donovan and two other teenagers robbed a pair of Norwegian students, leaving one of them, MIT student Yngve Raustein, stabbed to death.

View the Documentary
http://www.necn.com/pages/unequal_justice/0

http://www.necn.com/05/04/10/Unequal-Justice-May-2010/landing_newengland.html?blockID=228654&feedID=4815

http://www.supportjoedonovan.org/

Mary, Joe's Mother, Joseph Donovan, Joe's Father

http://thephoenix.com/BLOGS/phlog/archive/2010/06/10/help-get-joe-donovan-out-of-jail-this-saturday-in-cambridge.aspx

Joe in the news http://www.supportjoedonovan.org/joe-in-the-news/

Eric Percoco Once again, in part two of NECN's most current report, Brad Puffer comes through with more riveting information on where Joe's case is at & where it could be heading. Watch. Listen. Learn. ADVOCATE!!!

Killer Makes Plea for Joe Donovans Release
http://www.necn.com/06/15/10/Killer-makes-plea-for-Joe-Donovans-relea/landing.html?blockID=254235&feedID=42

Joseph Donovan -

The Punch that Took Two Lives
The punch that took two lives Nearly 17 years ago, Joe Donovan initiated a tragic chain of events with a brutish act of machismo. But should he be in jail for life? By CHRIS FARAONE August 5, 2009

Read more:
http://thephoenix.com/boston/news/87700-punch-that-took-two-lives/#ixzz0rUnZYUBd

What can YOU do to help my cousin Joe Donovan?

Sign the Petition to support Joe Donovan's Commutation http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/support-joe-donovan

Contact your state Rep and State Senator:
http://www.mass.gov/legis/

Join the "Pardon Joe Donovan" Group Facebook and Twitter!

http://www.supportjoedonovan.org/

---------

Commute A Sentence http://tinyurl.com/2wadjlj

What Does Commuted Mean? http://tinyurl.com/35658m3

Reduction in whatever the original penalty was. So, if your were sentenced for 10 years for doing a little dope, and the governor commuted the sentence, he reduced the sentence, could be to 5 years. Does not always mean the entire penalty was removed, although the definition would include that too.

A few months back the president commuted someones sentence, I believe it was a 15 year sentence for a federal crime to 10 years, calling the 15 years too harsh. Presidents can only commute penalties relating to federal crimes and governors only to state crimes.

======

Commutation of sentence

Commutation of sentence involves the reduction of legal penalties, especially in terms of imprisonment. Unlike a pardon, a commutation does not nullify the conviction and is often conditional. Clemency is a similar term, meaning the lessening of the penalty of the crime without forgiving the crime itself. The act of clemency is a reprieve. Today, pardons and reprieves are granted in many countries when individuals have demonstrated that they have fulfilled their debt to society, or are otherwise deserving (in the opinion of the pardoning official) of a pardon or reprieve.

St. Pius V. 100 % Attendance!

2010-06-21T06:39:00.000-07:00

http://www.stpiusvschool.org/ http://www.stpiusvschool.org/

Here it is - Sabrina's 100 % Attendance Certificate from St. Pius V. - Sixth Grade!
I am sooooo proud! It took us seven years to get 100 % attendance. We will try again for the 2010-11 year.

St. Pius had its moving up ceremony on Friday June 18, 2010 in the Church. Usually I cry - but this time I smiled proudly knowing that we have only two years left at St. Pius V. and then she will be off to High School. We celebrated at Canobie Lake Park in Salem New Hampshire with her classmate Chris, his friend Brian and Deb (Chris' mother). Sabrina said it was one of "the best days of her life". Even the moms went on the log ride and the Boston Tea Party - woo hoo.

High Five Sabrina!

"Do You Wanna Dance"! 100% Attendance!

2010-06-21T06:24:00.000-07:00

Sabrina performed this Saturday June 19, 2010 in the Do You Wanna Dance Recital and recieved a 100 % attendance certificate! She also was a teacher assistance for the 7-9 year old ballet and tap classes and Ms. Kim gave her a $25.00 gift card to her favorite place to shop Aéropostale®! Off to the Square One Mall today!

Sabrina and Kassie

Applause! Applause! Applause!

Congrats to Do You Wanna Dancers, Teachers, Assistance, volunteers, parents, audience, friends on an amazing 2010 Dance Recital. SOOOO great to see such enthusiam and talent! You all put forth your best and it showed! GOOOOooooo Miss Kim!

Dancers WON 2 High Golds!

2010-06-04T07:54:00.001-07:00

Sabrina's Hip Hop and Jazz dance classes competed on Sunday May 30th

and won two (2) High Golds!

Sabrina & Kassie -
Kalyn & Sabrina - Jazz Class - Do You Wanna Dance Studio

Hip Hop - Put Your Freak;n Dress on
rehearsal at DYWD Studio

Hip Hop - Put Your Freak;n Dress on
rehearsal at DYWD Studio

Boston Citation for BAA - Dr. Linda Nathan!

2010-05-26T06:37:00.000-07:00

Dr. Linda Nathan, Founder and Co-headmaster of the Boston Arts Academy accepts the Toastmasters District 31 Communication & Leadership award from 2009-2010 District 31 Governor, Sherri Raftery at the D31 Spring Conference on Saturday May 15, 2010 - Hilton Hotel in Dedham, MASS.

I was soooo very proud to have the honor of presenting Dr. Linda Nathan - Founder and Co-Headmaster of the Boston Arts Academy with the District 31 Toastmasters Communication & Leadership award.

It was well deserved award, and she did a remarkable job at speaking at the luncheon. Linda was able to sign her books The Hardest Questions Aren't on the Test - Lessons From An Innovative Urban School and sign them for folks.

I spoke with her about bring public speaking courses to the Boston Arts Academy to help students learn how to frame their messages in a professional way.

If you would like to purchase her book - all proceeds go right back into the school!

Carol R. Johnson, Superintendent, Boston Public Schools “With heart, compassion, and a magnifying glass, Linda Nathan takes us into the world of an urban high school, with its daily trials, defeats, joys, and victories. By broadening the lessons learned from the successful Boston Arts Academy, she is providing a service to educators everywhere. Everything from the achievement gap to parent elections to professional learning communities gets examined. This book does not shy away from raising questions, encouraging self-reflection, and ultimately opening minds – all while drawing on the power of the arts to engage, inspire, and achieve greatness.”

Larry Lucchino, President/Chief Executive Officer of the Boston Red Sox “Linda Nathan has written a remarkable book. Boston Arts Academy is an urban public high school just across the street from Fenway Park. So I get to see first hand, young people from every neighborhood in the city who greatly benefit from the approaches so clearly espoused by this innovative educator. With over 90% of graduates consistently going on to college (many the first in their families to do so), the results speak for themselves. ”

Keith Lockhart, Conductor, Boston Pops Orchestra“Linda Nathan takes a courageous look at our deteriorating educational system, and offers innovative solutions. Our “teaching for the test” system, designed to even the playing field for our young people, has instead so often marginalized those who don’t fit into the “multiple choice” scenario. Linda makes a case for reaching each student on his or her own terms, using an arts-based curriculum that unlocks the creative thinking and capacity for self-expression that such an approach nurture. The results are thought-provoking and inspiring.”

http://www.bostonartsacademy.org/Pages/index

http://kellylowenstein.wordpress.com/2010/01/25/linda-nathan-teaches-us-about-schools-hardest-questions/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UfG1RMuUE44

Green and Growing!

2010-05-19T09:37:00.000-07:00

Sabrina is GREEN and GROWING!

Sabrina will be completing sixth grade on Friday June 18, 2010! So much has changed this year with her. She is now taller than I am (not this this is hard to do - I am only five feet, two inches). She is becoming a young lady and will be a teen on November 14, 2010. This is her final year at Camp Christopher and she is entering seventh grade in the fall. She shadowed at St. Marys High School and we are also considering Boston Arts Academy. She STILL has 100 % attendance - so fingers crossed for the next four and half weeks!

This MOM is trying to keep up with this young lady is Green and Growing, I still haven;t decided if she keeps me YOUNG or OLD...which means I too am Green and Growing!

I love you Sabrina Denise! Love Mom

Sabrina Denise - My Beauty Queen

2010-05-19T09:17:00.000-07:00

May 2010 Toastmasters Testimonials!

2010-05-19T08:05:00.000-07:00

"Did you think up the Take Center Stage?

What a perfect "slogan" for Toastmasters!!! Very creative - and perfect"!

Isabell VanMerlin, Rumney Marsh Club 8431

Photo L-R Taken by Don Saracen

Ronald Couming, Assistant to the District Governor, Sherri Raftery, DTM, 2009-10 District 31 Governor, Taking Center Stage as we promoted the District 31 Prison Clubs during the Spring 2010 Conference on Saturday May 15, 2010 at the Hilton Hotel in Dedham, MA

------

Sher, "I think you know this, but you have done a very unbelievable job as DG. I'm very impressed with your leadership and extremely hard work for D31. You should be very proud of yourself". Dan Barrett, 2009-10 District Public Relations Officer

"Saturday (May 15, 2010) was truly a great day and you were amazing... true leader in every way! I will REALLY miss working with you next year"! Mindy Milman District 31, Area F4 Governor

"What an awesome conference, though! Thanks so much for putting it together-it was a pleasure to attend and I'm so grateful for all your hard work"! Best, Area D Governor, PDG, Ruth Levitsky

"Sher,You have had a great run with TM and could see you going national. Of course along with joining us at NSA"! Best Don Saracen, Toastmaster, NSA Board

"Fantastic conference, Sherri. you're in the home stretch now. a great year as president- you will be hard to follow and beat" :-). Susan Tordella-Williams, Renassaince Club President, D31 Spring Conference Contest Master

"I can feel the pathos and ethos ooze through your posts. It is a joy to see - good luck in the next stage of your Toastmasters journey." Phil Holberton

"Sherri, you do not merely "Take Center Stahe"; You ARE CENTER STAGE.." Christian Margrave, D36 Division Governor

"Hi Sherri, I wanted to send a quick note saying how great it was to meet you after so many emails back and forth over the past couple of years. I enjoyed the conference and look forward to sharing the experience with my club in Hanover tomorrow. Thank you again for the invitation to present and I hope to have the opportunity again in the future. Excellent conference and contest". Stacey Shipman, Honver Club. Feel Good Living
http://www.staceyshipman.com/

"Sherri, You did an absolutely phenomenal job,...you did awesome...awesome...unbelievably awesome"! Area B Governor Yvette Moquin

"You've also been great with the members. No matter what question you were asked or how busy you've been, you sent back an e-mail that addressed the concern of the member. This is the type of caring and concern that I would expect from a District Governor. You're gonna rock on Saturday. Proud that we'll be serving together. Partners in crime again"!-- Ben Lappen, Lt. Governor of Marketing, Lt Governor of Ed & Training Elect

May is National Foster Care Month

2010-05-05T08:38:00.000-07:00

"As a former foster child of several different families, I can share that even though those placements were not permanent homes, I am thankful for the temporary care they were able to provide during my formative years".
Sherri Raftery, M. Ed., 1977-1989 resident/client of THE HOME, 2008 The Home Honoree, 2010 The Home Board of Ambassadors

http://www.thehome.org/site/PageServer?pagename=about_success_sherri

"There is a great need currently for caring foster caregivers in Massachusetts. The Home is actively recruiting foster caregivers for its Intensive Foster Care program". http://www.thehome.org/

May is National Foster Care Month!

Every day, some 513,000 children and youth are living in foster care because their own parents can't take care of them. We must address the needs of these children, who need a stable and secure home until they can either return to their parents or establish a lifelong connection to a nurturing adult.

National Foster Care Month in May provides an opportunity for people nationwide to get involved as foster parents, volunteers, mentors, employers, or in other ways. It's also an opportunity to show our appreciation for the dedication of the foster families who care for these children and youth, and the social workers who support them.

Foster Care Month originated in 1988 when the National Foster Parent Association persuaded then-Senator Strom Thurmond to introduce a resolution to proclaim May as National Foster Care Month. The first President Bush issued an annual proclamation during each year of his presidency, providing an impetus for state, county, and city proclamations. The main focus of the early efforts was appreciation and recognition of the tremendous contributions of foster parents nationwide.

The Foster Care Month partnership now comprises 14 national organizations. CWLA invites you to recognize May as National Foster Care Month. Join us in making this a time to recognize and celebrate those who make a difference in the lives of children in the foster care system.

For more information on how to get involved in National Foster Care Month activities, visit www.fostercaremonth.org, or check out the Foster Care Month Toolkit for ways you can show recognition for foster parents and social workers, tools for reaching out to reporters, materials for working with businesses and elected officials, fact sheets, and more.

http://www.cwla.org/programs/fostercare/fostercaremonth.htm

Foster Club
http://www.fosterclub.com/

Foster Care Month
http://www.fostercaremonth.org/Pages/default.aspx

The Home for Little Wanderers - Foster Care

http://www.thehome.org/site/PageServer?pagename=programs_foster

MAPP TRAINING

MAPP TrainingMAPP (Massachusetts Approach to Partnerships in Parenting) Training is a multi-session 24 hour course to foster or adopt a child from the Department of Children and Families http://www.thehome.org/site/PageServer?pagename=programs_foster_MAPP

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

Foster Care

This article is about the modern child welfare system of placing children in state custody in the homes of temporary caregivers. For the social practice of children being raised by families not their own, see Fosterage.

Foster care is the term used for a system in which a minor who has been made a ward is placed in the private home of a state certified caregiver referred to as a "foster parent".

The state via the family court and child protection agency stand in loco parentis to the minor, making all legal decisions while the foster parent is responsible for the day to day care of said minor. The foster parent is remunerated by the state for their services.

Foster care is intended to be a short term situation until a permanent placement can be made:[1]

* Reunification with the biological parent(s)

* When it is deemed in the child's best interest.
* Adoption

* Permanent transfer of guardianship

President Barack Obama's Proclamation April is National Child Abuse Month

2010-04-28T09:08:00.000-07:00

"When the child next door is maltreated, we all suffer. Every American has a stake in the well-being of our Nation's children. They are members of our communities, and they are our future"..."Together, we can ensure that every child grows up in a safe, stable, and nurturing environment, free from abuse and neglect". Barack Obama, XLIV President of the United States of America

The White House - Office of the Press Secretary

By the President of the United States of AmericaA Proclamation 212 # 8355

When the child next door is maltreated, we all suffer. Every American has a stake in the well-being of our Nation's children. They are members of our communities, and they are our future. National Child Abuse Prevention Month provides the opportunity to underscore our commitment to preventing and responding appropriately to child abuse. This month, we emphasize the importance of understanding child abuse and the need for all Americans to help families overcome this devastating problem.

The tragedy of child abuse may afflict American children in different ways. Abuse may occur physically, sexually, and emotionally. Child neglect, another form of child maltreatment, may occur physically and emotionally. Understanding the forms of child abuse is critical to preventing and responding to maltreatment.

A well-informed and strong family is the surest defense against child abuse. To help educate and strengthen families, community members can offer their time and counsel to parents and children who may need assistance. For example, parent support groups provide an organized forum for assistance. More informally, community members may simply offer a helping hand to families under stress. More information about what families and communities can do is available at www.childwelfare.gov/preventing.

Civic organizations and government also have an important role to play. Civic groups offer essential support through education, assistance to those at risk, and treatment for victims. Government at the local, State, and Federal level must provide funding for services, conduct public education projects, and enforce child abuse laws.

As we recognize that we all suffer when our children are abused, that we all benefit from mutual concern and care, and that we all have a responsibility to help, more American children will grow up healthy, happy, and with unlimited potential for success.

Now, Therefore, I, Barack Obama, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim April 2009, as National Child Abuse Prevention Month. I encourage all citizens to help prevent and respond to child abuse by strengthening families and contributing to all children's physical, emotional, and developmental needs.

In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-third.

BARACK OBAMA

NOTE: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on March 6, 2010.

APP NOTE: The above note by the National Archives is incorrect since this proclamation was filed with the Office of the Federal Register on April 3, 2010.

Citation: John T. Woolley and Gerhard Peters, The American Presidency Project [online]. Santa Barbara, CA. Available from World Wide Web: http://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/ws/?pid=85940.

A PROCLAMATION

Our children are our most valuable resource, and they need our support to thrive and grow into healthy, productive adults. During National Child Abuse Prevention Month, we renew our unwavering commitment to protecting children and responding to child abuse, promoting healthy families, and building a brighter future for all Americans.

Every child deserves a nurturing family and a safe environment, free from fear, abuse, and neglect. Tragically, sexual, emotional, and physical abuse threaten too many children every day in communities across our Nation. Parents, guardians, relatives, and neighbors all share a responsibility to prevent these devastating crimes, and our government plays a critical role as well.

My Administration is committed to helping future generations succeed. We are focused on engaging parents in their children's early learning and development, ensuring the safety and well-being of all families, and creating opportunities for all Americans. We are also partnering with Federal, State, and local agencies to better coordinate early childhood services and improve the lives of young children and their families.

Together, we can ensure that every child grows up in a safe, stable, and nurturing environment, free from abuse and neglect.

I encourage all Americans to visit: www.ChildWelfare.gov/Preventing to learn what they can do to stop child abuse in their communities.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim April 2010 as National Child Abuse Prevention Month. I call upon all Americans to observe this month with programs and activities that help prevent child abuse and provide for children's physical, emotional, and developmental needs.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.

BARACK OBAMA

http://www.examiner.com/x-32119-Akron-Abusive-Relationships-Examiner~y2010m4d19-President-Barack-Obamas-Proclamation-for-National-Child-Abuse-Month

When ZERO is a POSITIVE NUMBER!

2010-04-07T10:32:00.000-07:00

Folks - Let me share When ZERO is a POSITIVE NUMBER!

Sabrina and I made a pack to this 2009-2010 School year to get 100 % attendance and SOOOO oooo far - we are there with just three months left. Now I KNOW that ANYTHING can happen in three months - but it will NOT take away from what we have accomplished for the past six months!

I had to ask what do you have to do to get 100 percent attendance and I was informed by the Secretary, Mrs. Orlak that you

ONE :
Can Not be late - first bell rings at 8:00AM, late bell rings at 8:10AM - (Sabrina has made every early bell).

TWO:
Can not be excused - even if you have a doctors appoinmtent, dental and Ortho appointment
(Sabrina has NOT been excused not even to attend the Ortho hearing in Boston this Monday April 12th)

So for the first time since we arrived at St. Pius V. Kindergarten January 2004 - we are on a roll in sixth grade to fingers crossed get 100 percent % attendance!

Definition of the number ZERO

0 (zero) is both a number and the numerical digit used to represent that number in numerals. It plays a central role in mathematics as the ...
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Number_zero

Walk for HAWC!

2010-04-05T08:58:00.000-07:00

Definition of Domestic Abuse - Domestic abuse is a system of coercive behaviors used by adults or adolescents to establish and maintain power and control over a partner or family member

Ways You Can Participate in the Walk For HAWC

Walk - bring your family, children and friends! Strollers, bicycles, roller blades, and pets are welcome too!

Register a team with five or more of your family members, friends, or co-workers. Captains, order your personalized team shirts by April 7!!

Sponsor the Walk for HAWC: sponsorships range from $250 to $5,000.

Volunteer with more than 100 other people to ensure a successful event. You can help with walk route set-up, registration, children's activities, crowd control or post walk assistance.
Create a virtual team if you are unable to attend the walk or complete the 5 miles. Contact Alicia at 978-744-8552 for more details.

Sponsor a walker. All money raised goes to HAWC's domestic violence programs and free services.

Help promote the Walk! If each HAWC supporter recruited one team and one sponsor we will reach our goal! Here are some ideas of people you know who might want to join our efforts to end domestic violence.

Create your own online fundraising page so friends and family can safely donate with a credit card!

Download the Walk Pledge Sheet and Brochure so you can start fundraising "offline!"
Why We Walk Sunday April 25, 2010Registration 11am; Walk 12 noonOld Town Hall, 32 Derby Sq. Salem, MA

By participating in the Walk for HAWC, we lend our voices to the thousands of others who are making domestic violence their business.

Each year, hundreds of families turn to HAWC for help. The moneywe raise is used solely to meet the needs for our services.

HAWC is committed to raising public awareness about domestic violence.

Each year, the Walk for HAWC raises over $150,000 to provide life-saving services for victims of domestic violence and their children on Massachusetts’ North Shore. Join thousands of North Shore residents who are making domestic violence their business.

If you, or someone you know is being abused, call:HAWC's Hotline 1-800-547-1649

April - National Child Abuse Prevention Month!

2010-04-05T08:42:00.000-07:00

As a former victim of child abuse and neglect I ask What are YOU doing to help stop child abuse?

http://www.thehome.org/site/PageServer?pagename=about_success_sherri

...There are MANY ways to get involved! Take a stand - TODAY!

"April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness about child abuse and neglect and encourage individuals and communities to support children and families. Learn more about the history of the month, see examples of Presidential and State proclamations, and find strategies for engaging communities and supporting families".

List of Partners http://www.childwelfare.gov/pubs/reslist/printer_friendly.cfm?rs_id=21&rate_chno=19-00044

History of National Child Abuse Prevention Month
Increasing public awareness of the need to ensure the safety and welfare of children led to the passage of the first Federal child protection legislation, the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA), in 1974. While CAPTA has been amended many times over the years, most recently by the Keeping Children and Families Safe Act of 2003, the purpose of the original legislation remains intact. Today, the Children's Bureau, Administration for Children and Families, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is the Federal agency charged with supporting States, Tribes, and communities in providing programs and services to protect children and strengthen families.

In the early 1980s, Congress made a further commitment to identifying and implementing solutions to child abuse. Recognizing the alarming rate at which children continued to be abused and neglected and the need for innovative programs to prevent child abuse and assist parents and families affected by maltreatment, the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives resolved that the week of June 6-12, 1982, should be designated as the first National Child Abuse Prevention Week. They asked the President to issue a proclamation calling upon Government agencies and the public to observe the week with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.

The following year, April was proclaimed the first National Child Abuse Prevention Month. Since then, child abuse and neglect awareness activities have been promoted across the country during April of each year. The Office on Child Abuse and Neglect (OCAN) within the Children's Bureau coordinates Child Abuse Prevention Month, providing information and releasing updated national statistics about child abuse and neglect each April.

In 1989, the Blue Ribbon Campaign to Prevent Child Abuse had its early beginnings as a Virginia grandmother's tribute to her grandson who died as a result of abuse. She tied a blue ribbon to the antenna of her car as a way to remember him and to alert her community to the tragedy of child abuse. The Blue Ribbon Campaign has since expanded across the country, and many wear blue ribbons each April in memory of those who have died as a result of child abuse. In other communities, special fundraisers are held to support prevention activities and treatment facilities for victims, and candlelight vigils are held as a remembrance. Most recently, the focus has shifted toward a more positive message of celebrating "blue ribbon" individuals, organizations, and communities who have done much to prevent child abuse and neglect.
In Title II of the CAPTA amendments of 1996, the Children's Bureau was charged with identifying a lead agency in each State for Community-Based Child Abuse Prevention (CBCAP) grants. These grants support the development, operation, and expansion of initiatives to prevent child abuse and neglect, as well as the coordination of resources and activities to strengthen and support families to reduce the likelihood of child maltreatment. CBCAP grantees within each State often take a leadership role in coordinating special events and preparing materials to support Child Abuse Prevention Month. Regardless of their role, CBCAP grantees are required to report annually on their Child Abuse Prevention Month activities.

In 2003, as part of the 20th anniversary of the original Presidential Proclamation designating April as Child Abuse Prevention Month, OCAN recast the National Child Abuse Prevention Initiative as a year-long effort. This initiative was launched at the 14th National Conference on Child Abuse and Neglect, which was devoted to the theme of prevention. A national press conference there was the setting for the release of the publication Emerging Practices in the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect.

The expansion of the Child Abuse Prevention Initiative was consistent with priorities of the Administration for Children and Families and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. OCAN and Child Welfare Information Gateway (formerly, the National Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect Information) partnered with the broader child abuse prevention community to raise awareness of the issue through a variety of tools, resources, activities, and public awareness events. Many of these materials have been made available in print and on the web to related Federal agencies, organizations, and concerned citizens in communities nationwide.

In 2004, there was emerging consensus among national child abuse prevention organizations and related Federal agencies that building public will for child abuse prevention required engaging the public in efforts to strengthen and support families and enhance parenting skills. Building on this national momentum, OCAN shifted the focus of its child abuse prevention resources to incorporate a family strengthening message promoting parenting and community support. Today, the Child Abuse Prevention Initiative is an opportunity for communities across the country to keep children safe, provide the support families need to stay together, and raise children and youth to be happy, secure, and stable adults.

MSPCC - Together Against Abuse!

2010-04-05T08:17:00.000-07:00

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month

"Let's work together to protect the children of the Commonwealth,keep them safe with their families, and provide them with an opportunity to thrive".

Guest SpeakerLisa D.
“Enough is enough.” With a history of profound abuse and neglect, Lisa was not going to let the cycle of abuse and neglect repeat in her own family. A 35-year-old mother with four children, she sought help from MSPCC for her youngest through our Worcester abuse victim program last summer. She and both her youngest two boys receive clinical and family support services. With the help of MSPCC staff, Lisa and her family are healing and are breaking this cycle once and for all.

MSPCC cordially invites you...Together Against Abuse Thursday, April 15, 2010Renaissance Boston Waterfront Hotel606 Congress Street ~ Boston, MA 022106 PM Reception ~ 7 PM Dinner(Business Attire)

For more information on the corporate sponsorships, please click hereor contact Emily DiMaggio at 617.587.1587 or edimaggio@mspcc.org

https://www.mspcc.org/SSLPage.aspx?pid=513

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

History

On April 23, 1878 the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children was incorporated"...for the purpose of awakening interest in the abuses to which children are exposed by...parents and guardians, and to help the enforcement of existing laws on the subject, procure needed legislation and for kindred work..."

Since its inception, MSPCC has contributed to the advancement of child welfare. In addition to direct services, the Society has been instrumental in putting dozens of laws on the books regarding everything from abandonment to custody to support. Through MSPCC's efforts, adoption processes have been streamlined and foster care better regulated. Government programs have been instituted that strive to ensure children's well-being with regard to housing, nutrition, health care, and education. And perhaps most importantly, a new awareness of issues such as abuse and neglect has taken hold on all levels of society.

We've also adapted to the changing times and never shied away from taking controversial positions. From our 1903 decision to shift the focus of child protection from rescue to prevention, to stepping forward as the first secular organization to call for the Archbishop's resignation in response to the recently-exposed sex-abuse scandal in the Catholic Church, MSPCC has been there for what we believe. It is this sense of the possible that has made MSPCC such a dynamic and effective organization during the past 131 years.

For a closer look at the history of MSPCC, click here for a timeline of MSPCC and Child Welfare Milestones from 1878 - present.

Toastmaster Testimonial!

2010-03-30T17:18:00.000-07:00

As the sitting 2009-2010 District 31 Governor leading 3,500 Toastmaster members in Eastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island I have many duties and responsibilities. In addition to leading District 31 I have many volunteers that assist with our District goals, deadlines, ect. It is always great to hear from them and tonight is one of those times!

Ah, ya see, it;s emails like the one I just got from my Area G1 Governor, Pranav that read in the subject line: "You are the best District Governor" and when I opend it the words "YOU ROCK" with a song!

Made me smile! Thank you Pranav

Madame District 31 Governor, Sher

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

WHAT IS TOASTMASTERS?

This non-profit organization offers a proven and enjoyable way to practice communication and leadership skills. Members evaluate one another's presentations. This feedback process is a key part of the program's success. Meeting participants also give impromptu talks on assigned topics, conduct meetings, serve as officers in various leadership roles and learn rules related to timing, grammar and parliamentary procedure. Thousands of corporations sponsor in-house Toastmasters clubs.

Businesses and government organizations have discovered that Toastmasters is an effective, cost-efficient means of meeting their communication training needs. Toastmasters groups can also be found in governmental agencies, a variety of community organizations, prisons, universities, hospitals, military bases and churches.

LEARN MORE ABOUT TOASTMASTERS

http://www.toastmasters.org/

Public Speaking: Overcome the Jitters - PTOToday.com

2010-03-29T09:35:00.000-07:00

Public Speaking: Overcome the Jitters - PTOToday.com

March is National Craft Month

2010-03-20T20:56:00.000-07:00

“These days, knitting and crocheting clothing, accessories and home decor items is as much a sanity saver or a social outlet as they are a creative effort.”
Kate Walsh quote

http://www.craftandhobby.org/promotions.html

March is National Craft Month! Over 10 years ago, the Craft & Hobby Association initiated National Craft Month as a way to introduce consumers to the popular pastime of crafting. During National Craft Month, consumers get the opportunity to take a look at new and exciting craft products at their favorite participating craft retail stores.

I went to JoAnna's Fabrics to buy zebra print material for Sabrina's cork board to match her curtains and bedspread. I also bought large 16 0z. white and black spools of yarn as well as a new aluminum maroon crochet hook size K to FINALLY crochet her a granny square blanket for her too. I have been meaning to make one when she was a baby but the years have slipped by.

Yesterday while I was about to go to the check out I heard an announcement on the overhead that made me smile it said: "Don;t forget that March is National Crafts Month"... maybe timing is eveything - happy to be celebrating with MANY other crafters!

Speaking of crafters if I ever open up a craft store I think I'll call it C'RAFTERYS.

http://www.joann.com/joann/home/home.jsp

During the month of March, craft retail stores will offer consumers of all skill levels and ages the opportunity to participate in "make-it/take it’s," special classes, demonstrations, tips and projects, and will offer free National Craft Month project sheets, the chance to partake in raffles or contests, and more!

This is a perfect chance to get the family together to spend some quality time while reuniting with a fun pastime. Crafting is a great and easy way to lower stress, learn, build self-esteem and simply have fun! National Craft Month is the best time to check out what’s going on in the world of crafting. Simply contact your local craft retail store to find out what they are doing to celebrate!

To kick things off, Plaid wants to present our National Craft Month Project: Decorative Planter using Mod Podge, which is the project pictured at the top of this article! For more information about National Craft Month, check out craftplace.org!

http://www.folkarthd.com/articleDetail.asp?entry=article&articleID=354

Learn how to crocket
http://tinylink.com/?7kl6cq1dr8

Granny Square
http://www.metacafe.com/watch/1535565/crochet_granny_square/

Crochet (pronounced /kroʊˈʃeɪ/) is a process of creating fabric from yarn or thread using a crochet hook. The word is derived from the French word "crochet", meaning hook. Crocheting, similar to knitting, consists of pulling loops of yarn through other loops. Crochet differs from knitting in that only one loop is active at one time (the sole exception being Tunisian crochet), and that a crochet hook is used instead of knitting needles.

Read more http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crochet

Erin Go Bragh! Ireland Forever!

2010-03-17T05:49:00.000-07:00

"May the sun always shine on your windowpane May a rainbow be certain to follow each rain May the hand of a friend always be near you May God fill your heart with gladness to cheer you".

Enjoy this Irish holiday! Proud to be of Irish decent and someday I hope to go over to the "old country" with Sabrina to visit where my ancestors, the Raftery Clan from May/Sligo.

Happy St. Patrick's Day and Erin Go Bragh - Ireland Forever!

Erin Go Bragh!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Erin_Go_Bragh

For the horse named Erin Go Bragh, see Hideaway's Erin Go Bragh.

A common stylisation of Erin Go Bragh, in a pseudo-Gaelic font.

Erin Go Bragh (sometimes Erin Go Braugh) is the Anglicisation of a Gaelic phrase used to express allegiance to Ireland. It is most often translated as "Ireland Forever"[1] and pronounced /ˌɛrɪn ɡə ˈbrɔː/.

Speakers of the Irish language assume that the phrase is a corruption of the Irish Éire go Brách or Éireann go Brách, which would be pronounced [ˈeːrʲə ɡə brɑːx].

The term brách is equivalent to "eternity" or "end of time", meaning the phrase may be translated literally as "Ireland until eternity" or "Ireland until the end (of time)". The form Éireann go Bráth or Éire go Bráth is also used in Irish and means the same thing.

The standardized spelling in modern Irish is Éire go Brách; however, Éirinn (which survives as the dative form in the modern standard) is the form historically used by native speakers and is the source of the Anglicized Erin. This linguistic shift (dative forms replacing nominative) was common among Irish nouns of the fifth declension.[2]

Other recent derivative spellings include Érin go Brea. This is sometimes translated as "Ireland the beautiful" - based on a loose translation of "go breá" as "is beautiful". However, this derivation and translation are not supported in the phrase's use as a war cry, nor in the language (in Irish, the "go" preposition, meaning "until" when following a dative OR nominative noun, does not readily lend itself to this translation).

Erin Go Brah - read more this link
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Erin_Go_Bragh

D31 Toastmasters Delight - Rap

2010-03-15T10:41:00.000-07:00

wwww.district31.org

D31 Toastmasters Delight -

For a good Rapping Laugh - check this You Tube video!

By: Bo Bennett (Creator of Free Toasthost and Igroops)

& Ryan Levesque, President of Igroops!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vp7froyfkMM

District 31 Boundaries

The boundaries of this District shall be as follows: The State of Rhode Island and Eastern Massachusetts; Western boundary shall be the west border of Worcester County running from north to south. (From that line west to the New York line will be served by D-53)

http://www.region7tm.com/District%2031_History.htm

2010 Toastmasters International Convention - Orlando Florida

2010-03-10T08:48:00.000-08:00

2012 International Convention Site Selected

Toastmasters International has announced an exciting destination for the 2012 International Convention – the Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort, in Orlando, Florida. Nearly 2,000 Toastmasters from all around the globe will gather for educational opportunities, networking, entertainment and world-class speech contests. The Convention culminates in the Toastmasters World Championship of Public Speaking. Attendees will also vote for next year’s international officers.

A brand-new vacation destination, the Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort is scheduling the Toastmasters Convention to be its only major convention at that time. So you’ll enjoy full service and plenty of opportunities to explore. Bonnet Creek Resort is located close to the Walt Disney World and Universal Studios theme parks and as an added bonus the hotel offers complimentary transportation to both these parks.

The event will take place August 15 – 18, 2012. Further information, including registration instructions, will be made available. For a complete list of future conventions visit www.toastmasters.org/futureconventions

http://www.toastmasters.org/Members/News/Announcements/2012SiteSelection.aspx

What is Toastmasters?

Toastmasters International is a non-profit educational organization that teaches public speaking and leadership skills through a worldwide network of meeting locations.
Headquartered in Rancho Santa Margarita, California, the organization has more than 250,000 members in more than 12,500 clubs in 106 countries. Since 1924, Toastmasters International has helped people of all backgrounds become more confident in front of an audience
http://www.toastmasters.org/Members/MembersFunctionalCategories/AboutTI/WorldHeadquarters.aspx

High Gold for Prima J - "BOOM"!!!

2010-03-09T08:12:00.001-08:00

2009 "Olympic Miss Diva Tour" at Melrose High School

Ray Ray (Rachael) and Sabrina competed with their class

to the song Prima J - "BOOM" and won HIGH GOLD !

BOOM http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PkCb3AITH_U

Ray Ray (Lyrical) and Sabrina showing support at the Dance Competitition !

These two can sometimes be BFF's or Besties and then sometimes...

well you KNOW what can happen....very trying on the Mums for sure!

============

Dance Competition -

Competitive dance is a popular, widespread activity in which competitors perform dances in any of several permitted dance styles—such as acro ...en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dance_competition

Do You Wanna Dance

2010-03-05T05:45:00.000-08:00

"Dancing: the vertical expression of a horizontal desire legalized by music". ~George Bernard Shaw

Remember, Ginger Rogers did everything Fred Astaire did, but backwards and in high heels. ~Faith Whittlesey

Sabrina's Jazz Class - being lifted in the air - my angel!

"Dance till the stars come down from the rafters
Dance, Dance, Dance till you drop".~W.H. Auden

Sabrina on her knees during Jazz Class

"Dancing with the feet is one thing, but dancing with the heart is another". ~Author Unknown

Sabrina's Jazz Class rehearsing

"We dance for laughter, we dance for tears, we dance for madness, we dance for fears, we dance for hopes, we dance for screams, we are the dancers, we create the dreams". Anonymous

Sabrina's Jazz Class Rehearsing

"The dance is a poem of which each movement is a word". ~Mata Hari

The Home's Board of Ambassadors

2010-02-24T09:57:00.000-08:00

Sherri Raftery, alumna of The Home, 2008 Voices & Visions Honoree, 2010 Board of Ambassadors.

"I was just about twelve years old when I first came to The Home for Little Wanderers. My Mom made it sound like I was just going to camp for a while. I waited and waited, but she never came back for me. It was 1977 when I was placed at Orchard Home, a group home for adolescents with emotional and behavioral problems. It has since merged with Longview Farm—where my brother Joseph once lived".

It is official - I am on THE HOME's Board of Ambassadors!

I met with Bob Sherburn & Scott Inman from The Home last week for lunch to discuss ways that I can assist on the Board of Amassadors and yesterday I recieved my letter in the mail:

Dear Ms. Raftery:

I am pleased to inform you that you have been approved by The Home for Little Wanderers Nominating and Developing Committee to serve as a member on our Board of Amabassadors...

Brain Davis, Chair of the Nominating Committee, Board of Directors

------
I am thrilled of this honor to be able to assist The Home by sharing my personal story and journey about growing up during my formative years as a resident and client of THE HOME. This is my way of giving back to an amazing organization that has assisted many children and families througout the Commonwealth of Massachusetts - me included. I realize that I am lucky to have been one of them and I want to let others know how much it means to people who had similar circumstances.

How are YOU giving back to those people and organizations that have made a difference in YOUR life?

Board of Ambassadors
http://www.thehome.org/site/PageServer?pagename=about_leadership

Success Stories
http://www.thehome.org/site/PageServer?pagename=about_success_stories

2008 Honorees
http://www.thehome.org/site/PageServer?pagename=news_video_voices_visions_08_honorees

2008 The Home - Honoree Acceptance Speech

http://sherriraftery.blogspot.com/2008/06/home-honoree-acceptance-speech.html

Linda Nathan, D. Ed founder of the Boston Arts Academy

2010-02-23T07:03:00.000-08:00

Linda F. Nathan, founding headmaster of the Boston Arts Academy, has achieved considerable success on the frontlines of an urban education system in crisis.

Linda Nathan is the founding headmaster of the Boston Arts Academy, the city’s first and only public high school for the visual and performing arts. Under her leadership, the school has won state, national, and international recognition, including a Massachusetts Compass Award, a “Breaking Ranks” award from the National Association of Secondary School Principals, and a Mentor School award from the Coalition of Essential Schools. BAA sends well over 90 percent of its graduates—all residents of the city of Boston—to college.

Nathan’s method embraces the idea of asking good questions, and getting teachers, students, parents, and others to grapple with tough issues and work toward answers collaboratively and flexibly.

District 31 is excited to announne that Linda Nathan, Ed. D founding headmaster of the Boston Arts Academy - is our Communication & Leadership awardee for our Spring 2010 Conference on Saturday May 15, 2010 at the Hilton Hotel in Dedham, MA

It is official - I wrote to Linda and ask if she would accept District 31's request to honor her with the Toastmasters Communication & Leadership award on Saturday May 15, 2010 during our Spring 2010 Conference Luncheon and she said "yes" and that she is "very humbled". Honestley so am I. I am excited to honor Linda with her amazing accomplishments in education and the arts. Of course another bonus is that she too is an Emerson College graduate.

Wow what an amazing position being the District 31 Governor is - I too am "very humbled"!

You can follow Linda on Twitter and Facebook!

Read Boston Globe article about Linda and her new book

“THE HARDEST QUESTIONS AREN’T ON THE TEST”: Lessons From an Urban School

http://www.boston.com/ae/books/articles/2010/02/19/boston_headmaster_shares_ideas_obstacles_in_urban_education/

http://www.lindanathan.com/

http://twitter.com/lindanathan

http://www.facebook.com/lindafnathan

Boston Arts Academy

http://www.bostonartsacademy.org/

Founded in 1998, Boston Arts Academy (BAA) is the city’s first and only high school for the visual and performing arts. It was founded on the conviction that academics and the arts are equally important to student development and achievement. The arts are integrated throughout the academic curriculum motivating students with a variety of learning styles to succeed in high school and pursue higher education.BAA is committed to providing a rigorous arts and academic education to urban youth who seldom have the opportunity to focus on the arts.

Mt Auburn Toastmasters Club - Blood Drive

2010-02-23T06:50:00.001-08:00

Here is a timely announcement from District 31's Mount Auburn Toastmasters Club!

Mount Auburn Hospital has graciously provided meeting space for the Mount Auburn Toastmasters Club for many years. Our club is sponsoring a blood drive to support the hospital.

The blood drive will take place at the Watertown Public Library (123 Main Street, Watertown, MA 02472) from 10am – 2pm on 2/25 (Thursday).

Mount Auburn, like many hospitals, is struggling to match the demand for blood particularly with all of the recent natural disasters. In giving blood directly to the hospital it also saves them from having to buy blood from blood donation sources done through other national organizations.
Folks that are interested can contact me via

dew3@rcn.com or cell: 617.510.6892

Thanks for your help. Don Whitmore

-----

The Club meets
Mount Auburn Club - Club #: 6670, Dist #: 31, Est: 06/01/1987
Mount Auburn Hospital 330

Mount Auburn St

Cambridge, MA 02138

United States 978 805 1094

Meeting Time: 5:45 pm 2nd & 4th Wednesday

Club Status: Open to all

http://mountauburn.freetoasthost.us/

Since 1924, Toastmasters International has helped millions of men and women become more confident in front of an audience. Our network of clubs and their learn-by-doing program are sure to help you become a better speaker and leader. Why pay thousands of dollars for a seminar when you can join a Toastmasters club for a fraction of the cost and have fun in the process?

http://www.toastmasters.org/

http://www.district31.org/
"Take Center Stage"!

My Claddagh Ring 2000-2010

2010-02-11T06:53:00.000-08:00

"Let love and friendship reign forever"

"With my two hands I give you my heart, and crown it with my loyalty."

I have been wearing the same Claddagh ring since February 14, 2000. I recieved it as a gift from an X-boyfriend - we broke up in 2003. He got married in 2008. We are still friends and his family treats my daughter like their granddaughter. But, last nite I decided it was time to take it off my old Claddagh ring that I have been wearing for 10 years.

At some point I may buy a new one with a whole new meaning. Here's to moving on....Happy Valentine's Day!

Claddagh Ring

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Claddagh_ring

The Claddagh ring (Irish: fáinne Chladaigh) is a traditional Irish ring given as a token of love or worn as a wedding ring. The design and customs associated with it originated in the Irish fishing village of Claddagh, located just outside the city of Galway. The ring was first produced in the 17th century during the reign of Queen Mary II, though elements of the design are much older.

Olympic Torch Run - by Attorney, John Raftery

2010-02-10T06:48:00.000-08:00

"The torch run was amazing. The reception of the crowd along the streets as we ran through wasbuoyant; there was joy and a spirit of people united, if only briefly, by the flame which had travelled from Olympia, Greece, on its way to Vancouver. I was truly honoured to participate in carrying the flame"! John Raftery -

John Raftery carrying the 2010 Winter Olympic Game Torch

photo taken by Julia Raftery.

The Olympic Torch Run

John carried the Olympic Flame in the Torch Run on Sunday, December 20th , at approximately 11:08 a.m which started at the Maple Crest Village on Main St. E. in Grimsby, Ontario, and went approximately 300 metres to the Queens Lawn Cemetery, also on Main St. E. in Grimsby.

LET THE GAMES BEGIN!!

This is soooo exciting! I love watching the OLYMPICS! Those amazing athletes will come together from around the world and share their passion, committment and love of their sport/s.

Can you imagine the support and training they endure?

Denied for Braces by Health Insurance

2010-02-09T10:14:00.000-08:00

I took Sabrina for her initial appointment for braces. The Orthodontist took photos of her teeth and mailed them to the insurance for approval.

I recieved a denial letter in the mail and I am appealing it. I called the Orthodontist and asked what the ratio is for appeal and I was informed 50%.

I wrote an appeal letter and faxed it. More when I know more.

What do YOU do when you are denied a request. Do you accept the denial letter or do you get back in and fight for an approval letter?

Share your thoughts and actions!

Fetch - Ruff Ruffman!

2010-02-01T09:48:00.001-08:00

FETCH! with Ruff Ruffman is a children's television series on PBS during the PBS Kids GO! block of educational programming. It is a game show/reality show parody that is hosted by an animated anthropomorphic dog who dispenses challenges to the show's real-life contestants. Premiering on May 29, 2006, the show has since completed four seasons, with a fifth season coming in 2010. In June 2008, the series received its first Emmy for Best Original Song for its theme. http://pbskids.org/fetch/

On Sunday January 10, 2010 I took my daughter Sabrina and her friend Ava to the 2010 FETCH Auditions at WGBH in Boston. It is a good opportunity for them to TAKE CENTER STAGE and answer questions while speaking off the cuff. They did not get a call back - but the point was to let them see what it is like to audition for a Kids Television show.

Boston Arts Academy High School - Boston, MA

2010-02-01T09:08:00.000-08:00

I attended an open house at the Boston Arts Acedemy in Boston, MA (right next to Fenway Park) on January 8, 2010 with my friend Denise (mother of Sabrina's friend Victoria). Our girls are in sixth grade and it is time to begin looking for high schools.

I was impressed with the level of discipline as well as comeradery in the halls and classrooms. Sabrina loves to dance and this would be a good fit for her which helps me to REALLY consider it as an option. It is impressive to see that former alumni Russell Ferguson won the 2009 SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE competition. '

Another interesting connection is the founder and Co-Headmaster, Linda Nathan, Ed.D. is also an Emerson Graduate (like me)! And let me add - I think I found my D31 Spring 2010 Conference Communication & Leadership Awardee! more soon!

http://www.bostonartsacademy.org/pages/baa_about/administration

http://www.bostonartsacademy.org/

Learn more!

Linda Nathan on WGBH's Greater Boston with Emily Rooney

http://www.bostonartsacademy.org/pages/baa_news/0497A80D-007EA7AB

Russel Ferguson is an alumni of the Boston Arts Academy - he won the 2009 SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE competition - congrats Russell!

"My name is Russell Ferguson. I was born in Boston, M.A. and I am 20 years old. I've been dancing since I was 3 years old and I'm still going. My drive in life is guided by God and my motivation comes from my parents. I hope the world could see me as an artist and hopefully appreciates what I'm putting out there".

Russel Ferguson
http://www.fox.com/dance/contestants/profiles/russell-ferguson.php

Videos
http://video.google.com/videosearch?hl=en&source=hp&q=russell+ferguson&um=1&ie=UTF-8&ei=4gtnS8yvJsOg8AbFuoiZAw&sa=X&oi=video_result_group&ct=title&resnum=4&ved=0CBoQqwQwAw#

Russell pays a visit to BAA - see video
http://www.bostonartsacademy.org/pages/baa_events/04CC712E-007EA7AB

http://blog.zap2it.com/korbitv/2009/12/so-you-think-you-can-dance-russell-ferguson-explains.html

D53 Jan Jam & Prison Clubs!

2010-01-25T05:03:00.000-08:00

"If everyone is moving forward together, then success takes care of itself".

Henry Ford

District 53 Governor, Marsha Kiley, DTM & District 31 Sherri Raftery, DTM (2) at the District 53 Annual Jan Jam in Hartford, Connecticut Saturday January 23, 2010

"We keep moving forward, opening new doors, and doing new things, because we're curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths". Walt Disney

District 53 Annual Jan Jam in Hartford, Connecticut Saturday January 23, 2010

Front Row - L-R Assistant to the District 31 Governor, Ronald Couming, District 53 Governor, Marsha Kiley, DTM, District 31 Governor District 31 Governor, Sherri Raftery, DTM, District 53 Lt. Governor of Marketing, Richard Peck, DTM (!)

Back Row - District 53 Lt. Governor of Education & Trainging, David Wheeler - "THE WHEEL"!

"There are many ways of going forward, but only one way of standing still".

Franklin D. Roosevelt

On Saturday January 23rd I picked up Ronald Couming, my District 31 new Assistant to the District 31 Governor (that's me) and we drove down to Hartford, Conneticut to attend our neighboring Toastmasters District 53's Annual Jan Jam - for its New Year Kick Off event.

We enjoyed a fun road trip with my GPS - Global Processing System. We shared stories, cranked the radio and CD;s, made a few stops, and at times asked for directions - just in case - sometimes I am not sure if my GPS is always acurate which can cause my oppositional behavior to merge - giggle n grin!

It is always an amazing experience to connect with D53 Leadership and members. I enjoy their performances, food and friendships. D31 2009 First Runner Up Mary Cheyne was the event Keynote about what she learned from her Journey to the Toastmaster's International Stage! I so love Mary's presentations - when she makes a point she has a unique ability to make me laugh and cry at the same time and I do mean I can have tears in my eyes while I am smiling!

Graciously I was given a few moments at the lectern (thank you Liz!) to invite D53 Toastmasters to attend my D31 Conference on Saturday May 15, 2009 at the Hilton in Dedham, Massachusetts. I was able to end with singing with my Smedley Medley that District 31 Presented at the Region Vii Midwinter Training... "85 Years ago Toastmasters International...Founded by the Honorary, Dr. Ralph Smedley...

But just before that I introduced my DG Assistant, Ron Couming who shared about his personal experiences about being a volunteer in the Institution Clubs.

...“Through Toastmasters, I not only learned how to appropriately and effectively express myself, I developed enough courage to enter other programs and assist as a volunteer.

Our call to action was to extend District 31's hand to help District 53 MOVE FORWARD and charter TM prison clubs & gavel clubs as well as speech craft which was WELL recieved by the members who are thinking about Institutions in Connecticut and New York!

Way to "MOVE FORWARD" RON

Great event! Looking forward to connecting again soon with D53!

"District 31 Institution Clubs http://www.district31.org/prison_clubs.html

Wnt to start a Toastmasters Prison Club in your District?

Contact D31 Prison Club Coordinator, George Manoogian toastmaster1@juno.com

Check out Taking Flight http://www.takingflight.org/starting_club.htm

"Judge Larry Gist, Chairman Texas Board of Criminal Justice Judicial Advisory Council: "This program has done wonders to improve the self-esteem and personal pride of those offenders who volunteered to participate, To describe their efforts as impressive would be a gross understatement. This is exactly the type of program that should be in every TDCJ unit and made available to those interested in replacing their negative lifestyle with a positive self-image.” ©2004. All Rights Reserved. Taking Flight -

P.O. Box 2161Orange, Texas 776311-877-883-0922

--------

Madame District 53 Governor Marsha Kiley recapped the D53 Jan Jam Best with her words of thanks to her members in an email...

Hello everyone,

Yesterday went down in District 53's history as an incredibly successful Jan Jam and kickoff event for the new year 2010!

First, please help me thank Liz Trendowski, this year's Jan Jam Coordinator, for putting together an Agenda that was very creative and involved so many members. It was educational, entertaining and a whole lot of fun! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! What a terrific job you did!!

Next, please help me thank Carter Sutherland for all the delicious food we had!! I just don't know how you do it! You continue to amaze me every year! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

What can we say to Norm Thibodeau except Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! for arranging it at The Hartford again and taking care of ALL the logistics for a well run event.

I'd also like to thank ALL of the participants:

Jerry A and Friends providing cocktail jazz as we set up, mingled and ate great food

Leedra Yablonsky and Wayme Botha with their 'unusual' speeches...

Tom Alvord on the banjo and performing a 'duel' with barefoot Brian Cavanaugh on guitar

'Hit and Run' ProSpeakers with Bill Miranda, Don Logie, John Slosek and Mark Z.

Bill Miranda giving an awesome speech on goal setting - ALL incredible !!

In addition to all this, we were extremely fortunate to have as our special Guest Speaker, Mary Cheyne from D31, the 2009 1st runner up World Champion of Public Speaking !!

Mary gave an absolutely memorable performance of her winning speech, "Stop, Reset, Continue". I don't know if it was a smaller room and we were closer to her but it was ever so powerful.

Thank you also, Mary, for providing all the details of the 'process' while you 'moved forward' from the club to the world stage. You provided meaningful advice that I'm sure many of us will practice with the Spring Contest season fast approaching. Who from our district is going to CA in August and to the World Stage?

I'd also like to thank our District SAA, Jay Discount, and all the members who volunteered to make the event a success! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! We could not have done it without you.

Yesterday was a day for members to relax, learn and have fun. It was a day to recognize the accomplishments of the last 6 months with a theme of a "Half Way There Hall of Fame".

It was also a day to reflect on where we want to be in the next 6 months and to commit to those goals. To quote Mary, "Say yes to growth and Move Forward"!

Thank you all again!

Here's to a terrific week and a very successful next 6 months!

Marsha
09/10 District 53 Governor

PS Great to see you there Sherri Raftery, D31 Governor! Thank you for giving us information on successful prison clubs!

TM Semi-Final Speech Contests!

2010-01-14T08:06:00.000-08:00

VP Pat Johnson - 2009 International Speech Contest Master - MGM - Foxwoods - Ct.

The Toastmasters International Speech Contest is changing this August 2010 year! Now ALL District Contestants will attend the Semi-final round of International Speech Contest. Here is the line from TM. During the past three years I have been amazed to be at BOTH the semi-finals as a SAA volunteer and have witness Districts Not Assigned Regions (DNAR) compete and only the winners would compete again on Saturday during the International Contest. I have also been amazed to witness members of my district come in the Top Three spots. Good luck to ALL of the contests - they put so much time and effort into competing!

Speech Contests

Each district will be assigned by random draw to one of nine semifinal contests to be held in August 2010.

The semifinal speech contests will be held on the Thursday evening of the Convention. The winners will move on to participate in the International Speech Contest Final on Saturday.

In addition, beginning with the 2009-2010 contest year, contestants no longer are required to present entirely new speeches until the final round. The speech given in the speech contest final may not have been given in any other International contest since January 1 of the contest year.

Travel (airfare or mileage) for all those participating at the semifinal level will be paid by Toastmasters International.

The following is the official list of semifinal speech contest assignments for the 2010 International Convention in Palm Desert, California. Districts have been assigned to the contests randomly.

Semifinal Speech Contest Assignments

Contest 1: 76, 37, 67, 61, 15, 52, 18, 6, 26

Contest 2: 35, 24, 45, 79, 58, 78, 84, 28, 31

Contest 3: 47, 30, 42, 36, 11, 57, 25, 32, 55

Contest 4: 71, 59, 75, 2, 73, 3, 81, 51, 16

Contest 5: 83, 60, 9, 82, 5, 85, 54, 77, 39

Contest 6: 63, 13, 43, 7, 69, 27, 21, 53, 66

Contest 7: 19, 62, 86, 70, 8, 72, 50, 49, 64

Contest 8: 12, 65, 4, 10, 33, 68, 23, 74, 80

Contest 9: 46, 14, 34, F, 56, 40, 38, 1, 22

Pictures from our Past!

2010-01-12T11:10:00.000-08:00

I recently redid Sabrina's bedroom to reflect her age now. Took down all the shelves and removed boxes of photos and baby momentos from her closet and put into my room. I was reviewing old photos and came across these. Thought I would post them - they made me giggle and tear.

Sherri Raftery - 4th grade - Winthrop School Revere, MA

Sherri Raftery - June 25, 1997 Ultrasound - Sabrina Denise Raftery

Sabrina Denise - 20001 Dance Exclusive - "My Blue Heaven & 2000 -
Dance Enthusiam - "Let's All Dance Like a Daisy"

Sabrina Raftery - 2000 - "Lets All Dance Like A Daisy - Dance Exclusive - recital

Sabrina Raftery - 2000 - picture day "Lets all Dance Like A Daisy

Sabrina Raftery with friends from the Salem YMCA - backyard BDay pool party

Chartering Ceremony - Watch City Club # 1367868

2010-01-06T14:53:00.000-08:00

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waltham_Watch_Company

District 31 - Division C3 Watch City Toastmasters Club # 1367868

Chartering Ceremony at Nova Biomedical in Waltham MA!

Photo taken by Club President Paul MacDonald's camera with timer

- Paul is standing far right white shirt & red tie.

Among the many duties I have as the 2009-2010 District 31 Governor is to conduct a Chartering Ceremony for our newly chartered clubs in the District. This particulary noon time ceremony was a special treat for me today because as the 2007-2008 Lt. Governor of Marketing (LGM) the Nova Biomedical club suddenly "folded" which for me as the sitting LGM meant that I needed to make sure I charted another club to make up for the Districts club loss.

So you can image how elated when I got the email that Nova was going to recharter again!
I was excited to make the trip down Route 128 South to Waltham, Massachusetts. I asked how they came up with the new name and I found out that the club took a vote and decided to go with "Watch City" because the building across the street use to be the famous Watch City Company. (see facts below)

I presented the Chartering Certificate in a frame and a mini Toastmasters Banner - one in the photo to the Club President, then we handed out all of the Charter Member certificates and I also presented a Club Coach ribbon to Richard Baker for all his help with the club. There was pizza, cookies and Sparkeling Cider - and the club President Paul did a fine job making a TOAST!
Waltham is commonly referred to as Watch City because of its association with the watch industry. Waltham Watch Company opened its factory in Waltham in 1854 and was the first company to make watches on an assembly line. It won the gold medal in 1876 at the Philadelphia Centennial Exposition. The company produced over 40 million watches, clocks and instruments before it closed in 1957 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waltham,_Massachusetts

The Waltham Watch Company, also known as the American Waltham Watch IOBNCo. and the American Watch Co., produced about 40 million high quality watches, clocks, speedometers, compasses, time fuses and other precision instruments between 1850 and 1957. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waltham_Watch_Company

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

Nova Biomedical

http://www.novabiomedical.com/directions.html

http://www.novamanufacturing.com/

100% Attendance

2010-01-04T14:38:00.000-08:00

A school resolution Sabrina made entering the sixth grade was 100% attendance. I have been driving her to school each day since Grade K and I have to admit she did not have the best attendance record.

Perfect attendance or 100 % attendance means you can not be: absent, late, dismissed early or leave school for a an appointment even if you are brought back that same day - no matter how long or how short - the same day.

Of course dental and doctor appointments can get tricky - especially now with ORTHO beginning this January 2010 - because those appoinments are mornings only - but I even managed to change her that appointment to a holiday to accomodate this.

We have been doing well with 100 % attendace... so far and am thrilled that the 2009 school year is over. We have six more months but morning tatrums and the New England Wheather can create challenges. Fingers crossed that we make sixth grade 100% Attendance!

My Sixth Grader - Sabrina Denise! First day of School Sept 2009

No more plaid jumper - here is the grey skirt, white shirt and blue vest.

Vice Principal Mrs. Spencer in the background

Photo taken by Denise Marquis Quintiliani

Sabrina & Sherri Raftery - First day of School photo - Sept 2009.

photo by Denise Marquis Quintiliani

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

ATTENDANCE

http://www.answers.com/topic/attendance

Dictionary: at·ten·dance

The act of attending.
The persons or number of persons that are present.
The frequency with which a person is present.

"Helping YOU Take Center Stage"!

Malden High School Oral Communications Classes Nov 2011

Handsome Blue Afghan!

Girl Gone Geek!

HappY 14th BdaY Sabrina!

Theatre Co. of Saugus OLIVER!

SabS & MoMs - The Younger YearS

Rainbow!

Smarts Brook Trail - New Hampshire!

Sabrina has Braces!

Rumney Marsh Toastmasters Club President Award

Steve Jobs - Apple Icon of ALL Icons!

The HOME in ONE! Standing Ovation

The Home for Little Wanderers - HOME in ONE - Women's Golf Tournament!

Missed Blogging!

Outstanding Achievement Award!

April - National Child Abuse Prevention Month

Sherri & Snook-A-Like!

"Have It YOUR Way"!

Nazareth/HolyChildhood School

2010 St. Pius V. Track Team!

Second Place St. Pius V. Science Fair!

Painting "The Color Purple"!

Sisters at Fuddruckers!

Cousins Can Be Like Sisters

Mom, Sabrina & Freckles

Winter Wonderland

Reading and Chill'n Like A Book Worm!

Eye Eye Doctor!

Last Baby Tooth

Snook-A-Like!

She's Going Goth!

Happy Birthday Fellow Capricorns!

Happy 2011 New Year!

Good By 2010!

Happy Thanksgiving 2010!

St. Pius V. School

Happy 13th Birthday Sabrina!

2011 Gloucester Invitational - First Place!

Catch Her Doing Something RIGHT!

Oral Communications Class - Malden High School

My Tween is going to be a Teen Soon!

Helping YOU Take Center Stage!

She lost another baby tooth!

Take Center Stage!!

Cross Country Track - Lynn Woods

HAWC's Survivor Story Project

SpareChangeNews Interview Pending!

Early history

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spare_Change

The Mission of the Homeless Empowerment Project (HEP)

What We Do

Organizational Structure

Board, Committees and Panels

Further reading

Participate!

Meet My Seventh Grader!

Golden Gavel Distinguished Royalty!

Alaskan Friend!

Line UP!

JW Marriott Lobby - Palm Springs

Friends, Awards and Festivities!

Distinguished District Governor Plaques

Golden Gavel Dinner Banquet

2010 Toastmasters International Convention photos!

Please Pardon (Commute) Joe Donovan Pamphlets

2009 2010 District 31 Hail and Farewell Luncheon Ceremony

Pardon Joe Donovan Part 3

Please (Pardon) Commute Joe Donovan # 2

Please Commute Joe Donovan

St. Pius V. 100 % Attendance!

"Do You Wanna Dance"! 100% Attendance!

Dancers WON 2 High Golds!

Boston Citation for BAA - Dr. Linda Nathan!

Green and Growing!

Sabrina Denise - My Beauty Queen

May 2010 Toastmasters Testimonials!

May is National Foster Care Month

President Barack Obama's Proclamation April is National Child Abuse Month

When ZERO is a POSITIVE NUMBER!