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Space Books for Kids
April 14 – National Look up at the Sky Day & Interview with Astronaut Clayton C. Anderson
Posted by Kath Carroll
Today, I'm honored to speak with retired astronaut Clayton Anderson about a pivotal childhood moment that inspired his life's work, the challenges of being an astronaut, and his most vivid memories from space.
What inspired you to make the journey to become an astronaut?
It was Christmas Eve, 1968. I was nine years old when my parents put my brother and sister and me on the floor in front of a black-and-white TV around midnight. We sat on an old throw-rug gifted from our grandmother to watch humans circumvent the moon for the first time in human history. As I watched the control center team and listened to the flight director bark out commands, I was enthralled. "I need a Go/NoGo for the trans-lunar injection burn… FIDO? GO! Retro…? GO! Surgeon…? GO! GPO…? GO! The entire team was GO! The craft disappeared behind the moon, leaving me to enjoy the rapid-fire chatter no more. It was simple static on our TV… for about 15 minutes. Then, after a couple of non-answered calls from the Houston CAPCOM to the Apollo 8 crew, I heard the quindar tone (famous "space-beep" you hear on TV), and the first words from the Apollo 8 commander, Frank Borman: "Houston, Apollo 8. Please be informed there is a Santa Claus!" That's all I needed. The bit was set in my mind that one day, I would become a United States Astronaut.
How did your perspectives change while on the International Space Station?
I am a man of faith. Seeing our earth from orbit did allow me to have the "orbital perspective" so many astronauts speak of. However, while I totally agree that this perspective changed my outlook and my willingness to do better with trying to protect and preserve our "spaceship earth," it strengthened my faith in God much more. The earth and those of us privileged to be on it, is not random. There is a reason why Sir Isaac Newton discovered gravity and invented calculus. There is a reason why Albert Einstein was able to derive the Theory of Relativity. While I am unable to truly explain my rationale, I believe that there is a higher power. A power that created this universe and gave humans an adaptable brain. That incredible gift will continue to enable us to uncover the secrets of the universe, continuing to strengthen my faith.
What was a big challenge you faced during your career?
The dream of flying in space as an American astronaut was something I pursued for many years of my life. To have finally been selected and given that opportunity is incredible. Yet having the "best job in the universe" is not without difficulty. For me, it was family separation. I love my wife and kids more than anyone… on or off the planet. To have to be separated from them for months at a time was extremely difficult, especially given their ages (6 and 2) when I began my training. It got easier as they grew older, but it didn't assuage my guilt very much. While I lived my dream, they sacrificed greatly, and I will spend the rest of my life trying to repay them.
What is your best memory from being in space?
It must be my first spacewalk. Poised above the opened hatch, floating in my spacesuit while looking into the abyss of darkness created by the sun's travel behind the Earth, I was calm. I watched ice crystals fly from behind my suit (they were created by my sublimator… or air conditioning unit) into the total black void of space. The slight pressure still available after the depressurization of the airlock was "pushing" the crystals into the vacuum of space. I was entranced just watching them sail by. When I finally came back to reality—buoyed by the Mission Control call to exit the airlock—I paused for just a moment to contemplate what was happening. The only thought going through my mind was that "…I was born to be here, right now, in this special place, doing this."
Seeing my hometown from space…for the very first time, is a very, very close second. On that day, when I expected to excitedly capture photos of my Ashland, Nebraska, I had everything prepped and ready to go. Equipment was strategically placed around the U.S. Lab module's earth-facing window, cameras were Velcroed securely to the wall, with timers set to remind me when to get into position. Finding my home on earth—without all the wonderfully placed lines, borders, squiggly river italics, and large stars designating capital cities—was tougher than I imagined. But when I finally found success, and saw Nebraska rolling into view by virtue of a big gray splotch known as Omaha (and a smaller gray splotch further southwest called Lincoln), the south bend of the Platte River was the last valid vision I had. When I saw my home, nestled there where the river bent, the place where I was raised and where many of my family and friends still reside, I took not a single photo. I simply broke down and cried. Overcome by the incredible emotions of floating weightlessly, as an American astronaut flying 225 miles above the exact spot where I was born and raised, having first dreamed of doing exactly that, was simply too much for me. So, I did what seemed to come to me naturally. I wept.
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and memories of your incredible career. I wish you all the best with A is for Astronaut and all of your future endeavors as you inspire children and adults to always reach for the stars.
About Clayton C. Anderson
Retired Astronaut Clayton Anderson spent 167 days in outer space, having lived and worked on the International Space Station (ISS) for 152 days and participated in nearly 40 hours of space walks. With a strong belief in perseverance and the importance of STEAM as part of every child's education, Astronaut Anderson brings his "out of this world" insight to issues faced by children, parents, and educators.
You can connect with Clayton Anderson on:
His website: astroclay.com | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter. For speaking events and appearances visit www.AstronautClayAnderson.com.
You can find A is for Astronaut at these booksellers:
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Books-a-Million | IndieBound | Sleeping Bear Press
National Look up at the Sky Day Review
Today's holiday hopes to inspire people to slow down and enjoy life's simple pleasures—like gazing up at the sky and really seeing the beauty that's there. Throughout the day and night, the sky presents an ever-changing world of color and motion, depth and light. It's a work of art like no other. Ever since the earliest times, people have been fascinated with the sky, directed by the stars, and questioning of what lies beyond. Today, we also celebrate those poets, mathematicians, scientists, and especially the astronauts who have explored the sky and brought all of its wonders a little closer.
Sleeping Bear Press sent me a copy of A is for Astronaut to check out. All opinions are my own. I'm also thrilled to be partnering with Sleeping Bear Press in a giveaway of a signed copy of A is for Astronaut and a tote bag. View details below.
A is for Astronaut: Blasting Through the Alphabet
Written by Astronaut Clayton Anderson | Illustrated by Scott Brundage
There are some books that just make you say "Wow!" when you open the cover. A is for Astronaut is one of these. Leafing through the pages is like stepping out into a clear, starry night, visiting a space museum, and letting your own dreams soar all rolled into one. When you settle in to read, you discover that each letter of the alphabet introduces both poetry and facts to enthrall space lovers.
Image copyright Scott Brundage, 2018, text copyright Clayton C. Anderson, 2018. Courtesy of Sleeping Bear Press.
To get things started, "A is for Astronaut, / the bravest of souls. / They fly into space / and assume many roles. / They pilot, they spacewalk, / and they even cut hair. / But seeing Earth from our orbit— / that will cause them to stare!" A sidebar reveals more about astronauts—even astronaut nicknames!
"B is for Blastoff, a powerful thing! / When those engines are fired, it'll make your ears ring." And did you know that two and a half minutes after blastoff, the engines are cut off and everything begins to float? Pretty amazing! Blasting through the alphabet we come to G, where readers learn about our Galaxy that is "shaped like a spiral filled with billions of stars."
How are astronauts able to walk and work in space? "Space Helmets are crucial and H is their letter." At K kids meet John F. Kennedy, who helped develop the space program, and L is for the Landing that brings astronauts back to Earth. M is for Meteors with their very long tails, and N, of course, is for NASA, which was formed in 1958 with a "goal to better understand our planet and solar system."
How do astronauts do that? "Working outside in space is sure to impress. / We call it a Space Walk, and its letter is S. / Floating weightless, with tools and a bulky white suit, / we can fix and install things—it's really a hoot!" And there's also V for "Voyager, two NASA space probes. / They are still sending data, / having long left our globe."
At Z, time is up—that's Zulu time and "our reference to England, when London's clocks chime. / As we fly 'round the Earth, folks must know our day's plan, / so we all set our watches to match that time span."
Both children and adults who have an affinity for space travel and all things related to astronomy will want to dip into A is for Astronaut again and again. With his wealth of knowledge and engaging voice, astronaut Clayton Anderson presents a book that will have readers starry-eyed and full of the kinds of facts and tidbits that answer questions and spur further discovery. A is for Astronaut can be read through from A to Z for its vivid poetry or explored in small chunks to absorb the fascinating facts included with each letter—or both. Expertly written for kids of all ages, Anderson's A is for Astronaut is a stellar achievement.
Scott Brundage's incredibly beautiful and detailed illustrations will thrill space buffs and serious scientists and engineers alike. Readers will love meeting astronauts tethered to their ship while working in space, experiencing the vibrant, mottled colors of a darkened sky or distant planet, and viewing the technological marvel that is the NASA control room. With the precision of a photograph and the illumination of true artistry, Brundage's images put readers in the center of the action, where they can learn and understand more about this favorite science.
A is for Astronaut is a must for classroom, school, and public libraries and would be a favorite on home bookshelves for children (and adults) who love space, technology, math, science, and learning about our universe.
Discover more about retired astronaut Clayton Anderson and access resources on his website, or follow him on Facebook | Twitter | or Insta. For speaking events and appearances visit www.AstronautClayAnderson.com
To learn more about Scott Brundage and view a portfolio of his publishing and editorial work, visit his website.
Visit Sleeping Bear Press to learn more about A is for Astronaut.
National Look up at the Sky Day Activity
Show your excitement about all things space-related with these fun activity sheets from Astronaut Clayton C. Anderson and Sleeping Bear Press!
A is for Astronaut Fill in the Blanks
A is for Astronaut Vocabulary Sheet
Posted in American History, Astronauts, Astronomy, Author Interviews, Book Related Puzzles, Science, Space, STEAM, STEM
Tagged A is for Astronaut, Author Interview with Astronaut Clayton C. Anderson, Clayton C. Anderson, picture book review, Picture Books, Picture Books about Astronauts, Picture Books about Space, Picture Books about Space Flight, Picture Books for STEAM, Picture Books for STEM, Scott Brundage, Sleeping Bear Press, Space Books for Kids, STEM Books for Children
March 23 – National Near Miss Day and Interview with Astronaut Clayton C. Anderson
Today we remember a cosmic fly-by that occurred on March 23, 1989. On that day the 300-meter-wide asteroid 4581 Asclepius, named for the Greek god of medicine and healing, came within 430,000 miles of hitting Earth—actually passing through the exact position Earth had held only six hours earlier. This near miss wasn't discovered until nine days later by astronomers Henry E. Holt and Norman G. Thomas. "On the cosmic scale of things, that was a close call," Dr. Holt said at the time. To celebrate today, you can thank your lucky stars for this near miss or any others you've experienced recently or in your lifetime. Another stellar way to spend the day is to learn more about space and our universe!
Visit Sleeping Bear Press to learn more about A is for Astronaut. You can download two A is for Astronaut Activity Sheets here:
A is for Astronaut Vocabulary Sheet | A is for Astronaut Fill in the Blanks
Meet Astronaut Clayton Anderson
About Clayton Anderson
Near Miss Day Activity
Rocket to the Moon! Tic-Tac-Toe Game
You can launch your own Tic-Tac-Toe Game with this set you make yourself! With just a couple of egg cartons, some crayons, and a printable game board, you'll be off to the moon for some fun! Opposing players can be designated by rockets and capsules. Each player will need 5 playing pieces.
Printable Moon Tic-Tac-Toe Game Board
2 cardboard egg cartons
Heavy stock paper or regular printer paper
Black or gray fine-tip marker
To Make the Rockets
Cut the tall center cones from the egg carton
Trim the bottoms of each form so they stand steadily, leaving the arched corners intact
Pencil in a circular window on one side near the top of the cone
Color the rocket body any colors you like, going around the window and stopping where the arched corners begin
With the marker color the arched corners of the form to make legs
On the cardboard between the legs, color flames for blast off
To Make the Capsule
Cut the egg cups from an egg carton
Color the sides silver, leaving the curved section uncolored. (If your egg cup has no pre-pressed curve on the sides of the cup, draw one on each side.)
Color the curved section yellow to make windows
With the marker, dot "rivets" across the capsule
Print the Moon Game Board and play!
Posted in Alphabet Books, Astronauts, Astronomy, Author Interviews, Book Related Crafts, Book Related Games, Concept Books, Science, Space, STEAM, STEM
Tagged Alphabet Books, Author Interview, Books about Astronauts for Children, Concept Books: Alphabet, Interview with Astronaut Clayton Anderson, Picture Book Author Interview, Picture Books about Astronauts, Picture Books about Science, Picture Books about Space, Rocket to the Moon Tic-Tac-Toe Craft, Rocket to the Moon Tic-Tac-Toe Game, Space Books for Kids, Space Related Ti-Tac-Toe Game, STEAM Books for Children, STEM Books for Children
October 8 – It's World Space Week
First declared by the United Nations in 1999, World Space Week has grown to be the largest public space-related event in the world. The week celebrates the advancement and contributions of space technology and exploration. This year's theme is "Exploring New Worlds in Space" and aims to encourage and inspire new experimentation, discovery and participation in advancing ways to explore the cosmos beyond earth.
To the Stars! The First American Woman to Walk in Space
Written by Carmella Van Vleet and Dr. Kathy Sullivan | Illustrated by Nicole Wong
As a child Kathy Sullivan loved to explore. Her father designed airplanes, and when he brought home blueprints, she carefully studied every line and curve. When she saw airplanes in the sky she wished she were on them, flying to exciting locations all over the world. Maps and foreign languages fascinated her. "Their strange symbols, exotic tales, and musical sounds made her feel like the world was waiting for her." Kathy wanted to see that whole world and thought maybe she'd like to be a spy or a diplomat, but her friends and other adults told her those weren't jobs for women.
Image copyright Nicole Wong, courtesy of nicole-wong.com
But Kathy always followed her heart. She loved going fishing with her dad and brother and finishing the day with a swim. She "delighted in how her arms and legs moved in slow motion underwater." Kathy was still a teenager when she learned how to pilot a plane. At first the busy instrument panel made her nervous, but she quickly learned how to manage all the "dials, buttons, and numbers."
Kathy got a taste for the thrill of space when she bravely jumped at the opportunity to ride in a Breezy—an open-air-framework plane. Sitting at the very tip of the airplane, in front of the pilot, Kathy had a bird's eye view. "The wind rushed past her face so fast it pushed her cheeks back. Higher! Faster! Young Kathy looked at the ground below her feet. She felt like she could see the whole world."
As an adult, Kathy put all of these experiences to good use as she studied complex science that would lead her to NASA. And when she became the first American woman to walk in space, she fulfilled her childhood dream to see the whole world!
Image copyright Nicole Wong, courtesy of charlesbridge.com
Carmella Van Vleet and Dr. Kathy Sullivan, have written a compelling biography of Dr. Sullivan that not only tells the story of her adult achievements, but also reveals the childhood and teenage motivations and influences that fostered her journey to the stars. As each event in Kathy's young life is introduced, it is followed by an adult accomplishment: Kathy's poring over her father's aircraft blueprints leads to a spread of college-age Kathy studying charts in textbooks. Her enjoyment of swimming underwater is followed by an illustration showing her NASA training underwater. Her initial introduction to a plane's instrument panel informs her later responsibilities inside the spacecraft. And the question she once asked herself as a child—what kind of job would allow her to see the whole world—is answered as the astronaut Kathy gazes down at Earth from space.
Nicole Wong's lovely, realistic watercolor and ink paintings clearly show readers Kathy Sullivan's trajectory from curious girl to accomplished astronaut. The blueprints that Kathy studies are filled with schematics. The aqua water she swims in swirls and bubbles in the wake of her cannonball dive, and the crisscrossing fields lay like a mottled green quilt under the Breezy. Especially stunning and effective are the illustrations of Dr. Sullivan's work with NASA. Kids will love the up-close view of the spacecraft's instrument panel with its myriad buttons and dials. Likewise, they will find the gorgeous two-page spreads of the space shuttle's launch, the view from the cockpit, and Kathy's spacewalk particularly thrilling.
Following the text is a personal note from Kathy Sullivan to her young readers. More extensive biographical notes reveal how Dr. Sullivan discovered her love of science as well as information on the NASA missions she supported. Two more pages highlight the women of the first space-shuttle class, which included Kathy Sullivan, and other firsts by eight other women in space.
To the Stars is a wonderful book to teach children that following their own heart is the best path to future happiness and personal accomplishment. It's a beautiful addition to any budding scientist's or adventurer's library!
To find fun activities for To the Stars—including how to make space play dough—as well as other books by Carmella Van Vleet, visit her website!
To learn more about Nicole Wong and view a portfolio of her artwork, visit her website!
World Space Week Activity
Astronaut Coloring Page
Would you like to be an astronaut? Draw yourself in this spacesuit and then grab your crayons, pencils, or markers and have fun with this printable Astronaut Coloring Page!
Posted in American History, Astronomy, Biographies, Science, Space, STEM
Tagged Biographies for Kids, Carmella Van Vleet, Charlesbridge, Dr. Kathy Sullivan, Nicole Wong, picture book review, Picture Books, Picture Books about Astronauts, Science Books for Kids, Space Books for Kids, STEM, To the Stars! The First American Woman to Walk in Space
July 20 – Space Exploration Day
On July 20, 1969, Americans Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin landed the lunar module Eagle on the moon's surface. With one small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind, Armstrong became the first person to step foot on the moon. Today's holiday dates back to that Apollo 11 spaceflight and honors the phenomenal achievement of leaving earth to explore the universe around us. We also celebrate Moon Day today in commemoration of the first lunar landing. There are many ways to remember this moment in history that captured the imagination of millions and still resonates today. Why not go moon and star gazing, set off model rockets, enjoy a sci-fi movie or book, or throw a moon-themed party?
Today, I'm happy to welcome a guest reviewer—Nick Alexander!
Hi there! I'm so glad I could participate in reviewing this book. I'm Nick, a space-obsessed environmental science and geology major from Connecticut College who adores anything related to exploring the universe! I developed my love of space at an early age, and it's inspired me to always think scientifically about the world around me. I'm a big fan of sci-fi, and I love classic science fiction novels. I love to write, read, and create things as well as come up with new ideas to research. I still hold on to my childhood ambition of becoming an astronaut, and I hope to one day get out into space and explore the cosmos!
Written by Chris Hadfield | Illustrated by the Fan Brothers (Terry and Eric Fan)
The Darkest Dark is a story of many lessons, trials, and triumphs. The book focuses on a little boy named Chris as he discovers the best way to deal with his fear of the dark, a phobia that many children experience. Chris is a boy who dreams of outer space and aviation and longs to one day touch the stars like his heroes. However, there is one problem; Chris is terrified of the "aliens" that lurk in the dark, especially in his bedroom after the lights are turned off. He is so afraid that he can't sleep through the night in his own bed.
Image copyright The Fan Brothers, 2016. Courtesy of Little Brown Books for Young Readers.
Through a journey of trial and error, with the support of his parents, and by watching the 1969 moon landing (which just had its 48th anniversary on the publication of this review), he overcomes his fear and pursues his dreams of becoming an astronaut. This wonderfully charming book explores many a small child's fear—the dark—and reveals that there is far more to the dark than may meet the eye.
Chris Hadfield, ISS commander and renowned Canadian astronaut, was very particular in the way he wrote the story, as it explores elements of his own childhood and ties into his own life. The fear of the dark—achluophobia or nyctophobia—is an incredibly common fear that many children deal with at some point in their life. By exploring this phobia, Hadfield channeled his fear into something that he later dedicates his life to. He uses his story to empower the reader and make them feel that even with fears, one can still accomplish anything.
Terry and Eric Fan use a great series of techniques to help the reader understand what Chris is scared of, which also helps the reader learn to not be afraid of what's around them. In the beginning of the book, the illustrators create an environment that gets the reader more accustomed to the idea of darkness and shows how it actually contains many possibilities and endless new questions to be answered. In a way, this atmosphere almost changes the reader's view of what darkness really means, as it's presented differently throughout the progression of the book. The illustrations, from the perspective of a space geek, are also rather accurate as well, showing the footage of the Apollo 11 landing and shots of the International Space Station in orbit!
As a self-proclaimed space expert, I'm delighted to get the chance to review this wonderful book. Growing up, my fear of the dark often got in the way of being more confident about myself, and to see that people I admire went through something similar really means a lot. As someone who eventually wants to go to space and explore the unknown, maybe it means I'm on the right path. As we continue to move forward, we must keep our eyes turned skywards, and we must continue to come up with inspiring stories like this, to encourage the next generation.
A note about Chris Hadfield and his life and work follows the text.
For kids who love space exploration or who are struggling with overcoming fears, The Darkest Dark is an inspirational read that would be welcome on home bookshelves and a wonderful resource in school, classroom, and public libraries.
Little Brown Books for Young Readers, 2016 | ISBN 978-0316394727
You can learn more about Chris Hadfield and his events, music, and videos as well as view a gallery of aerial photographs on his official website!
Discover a portfolio of illustration work by Terry and Eric Fan on their website!
Blast off to The Darkest Dark with this book trailer!
Space Exploration Day Activity
Phases of the Moon Blackboard
If you have a little space lover in your family, they may like keeping track of the phases of the moon with their own chalkboard! This craft is easy and fun to do together and will make a cool wall decoration for any child's room.
Black tri-fold presentation board or thick poster board
White chalk or glow-in-the-dark paint
Circular object to trace (or use a compass) to make the moon
Mountable squares for hanging
The chalkboard can be made any size that you prefer by adjusting the size of the board and sizes of the "moon"
Cut your black tri-fold or poster board to the preferred dimensions. My board measures 4 feet long x 1 foot high
To create nine moon phases, with the pencil trace nine circles at equal distances apart in the center of the board
With the chalk or paint, fill in the center circle completely to make the full moon.
To make the moon phases to the right of the full moon
In the circle to the right of the full moon, color in the left side of the circle until it is ¾ full. Make a dotted line along the right side of the circle
In the next circle color in the left half of the circle with chalk or paint. Make a dotted line to indicate the right half of the circle
In the third circle from the center fill in a ¼ section crescent on the left side of the circle. Make a dotted line around the remaining ¾ of the circle
To mark the new moon on the end, mark the circle with a dotted line
To make the moon phases to the left of the full moon
In the circle to the left of the full moon, color in the right side of the circle until it is ¾ full. Make a dotted line along the left side of the circle
In the next circle color in the right half of the circle with chalk or paint. Make a dotted line to indicate the left half of the circle
In the third circle from the center fill in a ¼ section crescent on the right side of the circle. Make a dotted line around the remaining ¾ of the circle
Hang the blackboard on the wall with mounting squares
You can follow the phases of the moon through each month by adding the dates that correspond to each phase and erasing and changing them as the weeks progress.
Posted in Astronomy, Book Related Crafts, Comforting Books for Children, Overcoming Fears, Space
Tagged Astronomy Books for Kids, Books about Overcoming Fears for Children, Chris Hadfield, Comforting Books for Kids, Little Brown Books for Young Readers, Phases of the Moon Craft, picture book review, Picture Books, Space Books for Kids, The Fan Brothers
April 4 – It's National Humor Month
Humor month was established to promote all things funny and to raise awareness of the benefits of laughter and joy. The health benefits of an optimistic outlook are well documented. Lightheartedness also improves communication skills and boosts morale. Reading funny books is a fantastic way to find the humor in life—for kids and adults—and to encourage a love of literature. In fact, there's even a Funny Literacy Program that can get you started! Click here to learn more and to find a list of funny books to celebrate with. You'll notice that the Jon Agee—the author of today's reviewed book—is at the top of the list.
By Jon Agee
A little boy travels in a rocket all the way to Mars to find life on this mysterious planet. He strolls confidently away from his ship, past craters and mountains, singularly focused on his mission even though he knows that everyone thinks he's crazy and "nobody believes there is life on Mars." The boy is so focused, in fact, that he doesn't notice a head pop up from inside a crater.
As he weaves his way around the planet, the boy decides that Mars is "pretty gloomy," and begins to doubt that anything could live there. He's disappointed, too, because he brought chocolate cupcakes, and now it seems he'll never get to share them. By now the pink creature is is following along behind, completely intrigued.
Copyright Jon Agee, courtesy of Dial Books for Young Readers
The boy stops with the Martian only a half step away. I was wrong," the boy thinks. "Mars is nothing but miles and miles of rocks and dirt! It's obvious. Nothing could possibly live here!" Disillusioned, the boy drops his bakery box and heads back to his rocket ship, determined to return to Earth. The Martian picks up the box, the size of a chocolate chip in his four-fingered hand.
The boy wanders and wanders, but can't find his ship. Suddenly, as the Extraterrestrial looks on, the awful truth hits him—he's lost! "Lost on Mars, where there is no life." In that moment, though, something catches his eye. High up in the crag of a cliff, the boy spies a yellow flower. He climbs to the top and gazes at his "amazing discovery." As he picks the flower and turns to go, he sees his cupcake box sitting on a nearby ledge.
He picks up the box, ignoring the fleeting conundrum of how it got there, and resumes the search for his space ship. He climbs higher onto the cliff, where an even taller rock juts skyward. "I bet I'll get a good view from the top of that mountain," he tells himself. He steps up onto the Martian's backside, and happily locates his ship.
With his flower and box in hand, the boy settles into the rocket. As it roars off into space, he unties the string, thinking that he "deserves a treat" after his adventure. But where did the cupcakes go?!
Jon Agee has such a wonderful way with quiet books in which the humor sneaks up on readers much like the alien in Life on Mars. Kids will love being in on the joke as the little astronaut wanders around the dark, lonely planet unaware that the very thing he seeks is right behind him. His discovery of the yellow flower and the moved cupcake box add suspense, and the final scene of the box full of crumbs is deliciously surprising.
The barren Martian landscape, set against the blackness of space, provides the perfect setting for the simple comic touches that propel the story. The first glimpse of the pink creature's head in the crater sets the stage for the giggles to come, as single objects lead to the final joke. Readers will feel for the adorable creature as it copies the little astronaut's expressions, scratches its head in bewilderment, and unwittingly becomes the stepping stone to the resolution of the boy's search.
Dial Books for Young Readers, 2017 | ISBN 978-0399538520
Check out more books and illustrations by Jon Agee on his website!
Begin the humorous adventure of Life on Mars in this book trailer!
Humor Month Activity
Happy Alien Coloring Page
This alien is enjoying a funny joke, and you'll enjoy coloring this printable Happy Alien Page!
Tagged Dial Books for Young Readers, Humorous Picture Books, Jon Agee, picture book review, Picture Books, Space Books for Kids
March 23 – Near Miss Day
Today's holiday commemorates a most auspicious moment in history that never happened! On March 23, 1989 a huge asteroid missed hitting Earth by only 500,000 miles. Did you feel the breeze as it blew by? Yeah, me too! I think we can all remember exactly where we were when we happily escaped suffering the same fate as the dinosaurs. So drink a toast to serendipity and the gravity of natural forces.
Oh No, Astro!
Written by Matt Roeser | Illustrated by Brad Woodard
Astro was not a typical asteroid. Instead of zooming around crashing into obstacles, he believed in "personal outer space" and had for millions of years. One day when Astro spies an approaching satellite, he greets him cordially and lays down the rules: "please keep your distance" and "stay in your orbit." But the satellite ignores him and comes closer and closer until…
Image copyright Brad Woodard, courtesy of Simon & Schuster
"'Good gravity! You've struck me!" Astro exclaims. He's just about to "point out to the satellite that it had done considerable damage to one of his favorite craters" when he discovers that he is spinning out of his orbit and out of control. How humiliating! The usually unflappable space rock suddenly finds himself hurtling past Mars. At the same time young astronomer, Nova, is "enjoying a quiet night of stargazing" through her telescope. She catches sight of Astro as he zips past an astronaut, rushes past the Moon, and finds himself on an inevitable collision course with Earth.
As he enters Earth's atmosphere he begins to break apart, shedding bits of the past, as the universe watches. He lands on Earth with a SMASH! Reeling from the impact Astro slowly opens one eye and then the other. He finds that he's smaller but in one piece. Standing by is Nova, waiting to welcome him to his new home. "'My stars,'" he mutters. "'Dare I say that was…FUN?!'"
And as Astro gazes at the night sky from a fresh perspective with Nova by his side, he asks, "'What on Earth shall we do next?!'"
For anyone stuck in the rut of their own orbit, Matt Roeser's story of the unwitting space traveler is a humorous invitation to explore the universe around them. Roeser's language—from calling asteroids "rambunctious" and the satellite a "celestial wanderer" to exclamations of "good gravity!" and "Pluto's revenge!"—is an inspired treat. Kids and adults will laugh at Astro's attempts to handle his undesirable predicament with dignity. Complacent Astro with his dry-as-space-dust wit and sparkling puns makes a stellar guide on this journey to more self-discovery and life enjoyment.
In the hands of Brad Woodard, deep space is a very cute and cool place! Rendered in flat tones of black, aqua, yellow, red, and white, Woodard's illustrations give Oh No, Astro! a retro feel for a space-savvy audience. The oblivious satellite floats through Astro's orbit with wide eyes and a sweet grin, while angular Astro with his stick arms, expressive face, and boldly displayed "No loitering" banner would be a welcome alien intruder in any back yard. Inquisitive and inclusive Nova, in her ponytails and Saturn-patterned dress, is the perfect companion to greet him! The night sky abounds with constellations, but Astro is the real star!
In the final pages, Astro leads readers in a "A Selection of Space Facts" from the very Manual of the Cosmos, 2nd edition that he used to sort things out in his own life. A short list of suggested reading is also included.
Kids would love to find Oh No, Astro! on their bookshelf for story times of cosmic fun!
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2016 | ISBN 978-1481439763
Visit Matt Roeser's Website to discover his gallery of book jacket designs!
You can learn more about design and illustration work by Brad Woodard at Brave the Woods!
Name That Asteroid! Word Search
Can you find the names of 20 asteroids floating around in this printable Name That Asteroid! Word Search Puzzle? Here's the Solution!
Posted in Astronomy, Book Related Puzzles, Friendship, Hesitant Children, Humor, Science, STEM, Word Search Puzzles
Tagged Asteroid Names Word Search Puzzle, Astronomy for Kids, Brad Woodard, Friendship Books for Kids, Humorous Picture Books, Matt Roeser, Near Miss Day, Oh No Astro!, picture book review, Picture Books, Simon & Schuster Books for Young People, Space Books for Kids, STEM
July 20 – National Moon Day
Today's holiday celebrates the astounding technological achievement that saw men land—and walk—on the moon. On July 20, 1969 Apollo 11 with astronauts Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins touched down on the moon. Six hours after landing, Armstrong made the first "small step for man, one giant leap for mankind" when he descended the ladder of the space craft to the moon's surface. He spent two and a half hours exploring our nearest neighbor. Aldrin also made a lunar walk. Between them, the two astronauts brought 47.5 pounds of material back to Earth. Millions of people watched live coverage of the moon landing on television, cheering along with NASA at this amazing feat.
But Kathy always followed her heart. She loved going fishing with her dad and brother, finishing the day with a swim. She "delighted in how her arms and legs moved in slow motion underwater." Kathy was still a teenager when she learned how to pilot a plane. At first the busy instrument panel made her nervous, but she quickly learned how to manage all the "dials, buttons, and numbers."
Kathy got a taste for the thrill of space when she bravely jumped at the opportunity to ride in a Breezy—an open air framework plane. Sitting at the very tip of the airplane, in front of the pilot, Kathy had a bird's eye view. "The wind rushed past her face so fast it pushed her cheeks back. Higher! Faster! Young Kathy looked at the ground below her feet. She felt like she could see the whole world."
Later, as the first American woman to walk in space, she did!
Nicole Wong's lovely, realistic watercolor and ink paintings clearly show readers Kathy Sullivan's trajectory from curious girl to accomplished astronaut. The blueprints that Kathy studies are filled with schematics. The aqua water she swims in swirls and bubbles in the wake of her cannonball dive, the crisscrossing fields lay like a mottled green quilt under the Breezy. Especially stunning and effective are the illustrations of Dr. Sullivan's work with NASA. Kids will love the up-close view of the spacecraft's instrument panel with its myriad buttons and dials, and find the gorgeous two-page spreads of the space shuttle's launch, the view from the cockpit, and Kathy's spacewalk particularly thrilling.
Following the text are a personal note from Kathy Sullivan to her young readers, as well as more extensive biographical notes on how Dr. Sullivan discovered her love of science and the NASA missions she supported. Two more pages highlight the women of the first space-shuttle class, which included Kathy Sullivan, and other firsts by eight other women in space.
To the Stars is a wonderful book to teach children that following their own heart is the best path to future happiness and personal accomplishment. It's a nice addition to any budding scientist's or adventurer's library!
National Moon Day Activity
Out of this World Coloring Page
The view of the Moon from Earth or of Earth from the Moon is spectacular! Have fun coloring this printable Out of this World Coloring Page!
Posted in American History, Astronomy, Biographies, Science, STEM, Women in History, Women in Science
Tagged Biographies for Kids, Bools about Astronauts for Children, Carmella Van Vleet, Charlesbridge, Children's Books, Dr. Kathy Sullivan, Girls in Science and Engineering, National Moon Day, Nicole Wong, picture book review, Picture Books, Science for Kids, Space Books for Kids, STEM, To the Stars! The First American Woman to Walk in Space, Women in Science for Kids


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Excellence Awards - community services 2021
community services awards
We are proud to present the finalists and winners across the two categories of Outstanding Organisation and Team Excellence in the 2021 HESTA Excellence Awards.
Sacred Heart Mission -winner
Share the Dignity
SHINE for Kids
The Water Well Project
The Haymarket Foundation Senior case management team (homelessness services)
SHQ -winner
Zoe Support Australia
Read the media release here
Outstanding Organisation finalists
Sacred Heart Mission
St Kilda VIC
Sacred Heart Mission is recognised for their dedication to the immediate needs of the St Kilda community and across the Melbourne metro area.
They provide support and services for people experiencing homelessness, disadvantage and social exclusion, including a meals program, trauma-informed case management, women's crisis accommodation, long-term supported accommodation and more.
Due to Covid, the Meals Program pivoted to a takeaway service, providing an average of 235 free meals every day over the last 12 months. It is through the Meals Program that many people first engage with Sacred Heart Mission's additional support services, be it crisis or long-term.
The prize money will support Sacred Heart Mission to reopen their Meals Program in a Covid-safe way, so they can once more welcome everyone to their table.
Share the Dignity is recognised for their work to ensure no woman, girl or person who menstruates goes without basic access to period products in Australia. They assist through advocacy and by collecting and distributing period products across Australia.
The team of 17, powered by over 5500 volunteers – known as Sheroes – work hard to support 2900 registered charities who distribute these products.
Other initiatives include two annual Dignity Drive's where more than 3 million period products have been donated as well as their annual Christmas campaign It's in the Bag. They have also placed 250 #PinkBox Dignity Vending Machines in areas where those in need can access them.
Additionally, Share the Dignity advocates for ending period poverty. In 2018, they were successful in axing the tampon tax, and this year have conducted the Bloody Big Survey on menstruation. completed by 125,000 is now a world-first report highlighting the prevalence of period poverty in Australia.
SHINE for Kids is recognised for their work supporting children and young people with a parent in prison.
SHINE for Kids is the only national charity to provide programs to these children and young people, operating in schools, the community and 29 correctional facilities across the country.
Services provided by SHINE for Kids includes access to mentoring, transport, education support, Aboriginal programs, child-friendly prison visits, intensive family case management and much more.
In 2019-20, SHINE for Kids supported more than 7000 children and more than 5000 families, 30% of whom identify as Abolriginal or Torres Straight Islander.
In the future, SHINE for Kids hopes to purchase new books for their Storytime Initiative.
Malvern VIC
The Water Well Project is recognised for its work to improve the health and wellbeing of communities from migrant, refugee or asylum seeker backgrounds through free, interactive health education sessions.
By providing interactive sessions run by volunteer healthcare professionals, the Water Well Project facilitates discussion, provides accurate information and enables communities to access available health services.
The sessions have given people the knowledge, personal skills and confidence needed to improve their personal and community health by changing their lifestyles and engaging in preventative care.
The Water Well Project plans to engage new volunteers, return to in-person sessions and further expand their reach across the country.
Team Excellence finalists
Northbridge WA
The SHQ team is recognised for developing and implementing a clinician and consumer endorsed screening tool to identify and support women who are at risk or who have experienced intimate partner violence or reproductive coercion.
SHQ is a specialist sexual health service comprised of a passionate team of doctors, nurses, counsellors and a wide range of support staff. With this screening tool, they can better identify and support women who are at risk or who have experienced violence from an intimate partner.
SHQ is committed to building on and expanding the initial project. They are sharing their learnings with other community service providers, and building even stronger relationships across the community sector to help improve the safety and wellbeing of women.
Senior case management team (homelessness services)
The Haymarket Foundation, Chippendale NSW
The Haymarket Foundation's senior case management team is recognised for going above and beyond to support individuals experiencing homelessness who have fallen through service gaps.
The senior case management team is made up of three individuals, Grace Ivy Rullis, Dinsel Davies and Deborah Jurd, all of whom share a passionate commitment to finding long-term solutions for people experiencing complex homelessness. The trio are always on call.
During the pandemic, our homelessness services sector was forced to adapt rapidly, placing people experiencing or at risk of homelessness into hotel accommodation, providing outreach case management to ensure their safety and well-being. This work developed into a living skills program and within three months, participants supported by Haymarket showed improvement in developing healthy relationships, shopping and cooking skills, and financial literacy skills needed to budget for rent and food. The majority of participants are now permanently housed with post support
Mildura VIC
Zoe Support Australia is recognised for its support of young mothers aged 13-25 while they engage with social programs, education and employment.
Zoe Support works to deliver a holistic service including childcare, transport, study hubs, tutoring, pre-accredited programs, playgroups, case management as well as mental health, housing, food, and clothing support.
The Integrated Family Services (IFS) program provides intensive support to high-risk clients, enabling them to achieve their education, employment and social goals.
Over the past year, 44% of IFS clients have enrolled in accredited education programs including through TAFE, with 54% enrolled in pre-accredited Learn Local programs.
If successful, Zoe Support will use the funds for training their team in youth mental health and cultural awareness, building a pantry of food essentials and strengthening their transport program.
Check out the other HESTA Excellence Awards finalists
allied health | aged care | disability services
2020 finalists and winners: allied health | aged care | community services | disability services
Learn more about the HESTA Excellence Awards

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MPs to debate referendum on HS2. With text to send to your MP today
Sample text to send to your MP today appears at the bottom. On Friday (23rd January), MPs will debate...
The Finsbury Park Fiasco – A taste of things to come with HS2.
Yesterday, we saw how the Department for Transport and Network Rail can really shine when they put their minds...
HS2, Scotland and the Regions
Few people, if anyone at all, voted in the Scottish referendum based on their view of HS2 – and...
Plaid Cymru set out HS2 £4bn stall for General Election
Today, Jonathan Edwards MP has launched a campaign calling for fairness for Wales, demanding that Wales should receive £2-4bn...
Some recent news items
The Guardian: HS2 safeguarding directions legally flawed, high court told Project opponents say transport secretary's directions, intended to stop work...
"Empty seats from Euston, full trains in London"
John Redwood, Conservative MP for Workingham is a notable opponent of HS2 and has been challenging the Department for...
19-May-2014 News
What do the Hybrid Bill Committee think of HS2?
Now the HS2 Hybrid Bill has passed second reading, the petitioning period has started, and you have until 23rd...
Get Bucks: Tony Blair's former head of spin appointed by HS2 – Get Bucks Tony Blair's former head of...
10-Mar-2014 News
Barnett costs mean billions more will have to go on the HS2 bill.
Following the discovery last week that HS2 Ltd had decided to keep the estimated running costs of the project...
12-Feb-2014 News, Press Release
Cameron's HS2 fightback continues
David Cameron's fightback on HS2 is expected to continue with a speech at the CBI conference today. This is...
‹ Prev 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Next ›


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AROUND THE NBA | All about LeBron: Where does the Lakers star go from here?
By TIM REYNOLDS AP Basketball Writer
Mar 11, 2019 at 2:35 AM Mar 11, 2019 at 4:11 PM
The year was 2005. No one had an iPhone. No one had tweeted. Facebook wasn't part of the mainstream.
And it was the last time the NBA playoffs didn't have LeBron James.
The Los Angeles Lakers aren't mathematically eliminated from postseason consideration yet, but it's only a matter of time. For the first time in 14 years, the postseason will begin without James — and for the first time in nine years, the NBA Finals will be played without him.
It will be a very long offseason for James.
It is not what he envisioned, either.
"It's challenging," James said of the current state of the Lakers. "But I kind of knew what I was getting myself into."
That's not entirely true. He knew it would be difficult but he couldn't have foreseen anything like this, since the only other losing season of his life came when he was a rookie in 2003-04.
Thing is, he doesn't possibly know what comes next. No one does. The offseason will see roster change, top free agents to play alongside James will be pursued hard by Rob Pelinka and Magic Johnson, and it will not be a surprise if the Lakers decide Luke Walton isn't the right coach anymore.
But the key for the 2019-20 Lakers — obviously — is going to be James. The grind of eight straight runs to the NBA Finals is over. He's about to get six months off to rest, recover, reset, heal, think, plot, prepare. It's been a long time since that happened, and at this point in his career it might be precisely what he needs.
"Rest is going to help," said Miami guard Dwyane Wade, one of James' closest friends. "I think the biggest thing with him is probably mental, the mental break from it. Physically, obviously, he's getting older but he's still very good at this game. Look at his numbers. They're still very good. But he's been going at it for a long time, so to get away from it and kind of look at it from a different lens, it'll definitely help."
It has been proven that setbacks inspire James.
Miami lost the 2011 NBA Finals in his first season with the Heat. Fueled by that, he came back the next year better than ever, and his fingerprints smudged the Larry O'Brien Trophy for the first time in 2012. Cleveland lost the 2015 finals in his first year back there, and he carried that all the way to winning the 2016 title.
Of course, he was younger then.
He'll turn 35 in December. Next season is his 17th in the NBA. Does he have the ability to engineer the sort of turnaround that LA needs?
Kevin Love, his former Cleveland teammate, has no doubt.
"Just having that break, being able to reassess and come back really, really highly motivated, I think it's going to be big for him," Love said. "If you get Bron highly motivated, anything can happen."
James is still putting up amazing numbers. At 34, he's on pace to become the oldest person in NBA history to average 27 points, eight assists and eight rebounds. If it happens, he'll break the record set by 33-year-old LeBron James last season. No other 30-something has finished a season with stats like that.
Still, this Lakers' season is lost. But Wade warns against expecting the same next season.
"This is definitely going to make him hungrier for what he's trying to accomplish next year," Wade said.
MORE JAMES
James passed Michael Jordan for No. 4 on the NBA's all-time regular season scoring list last week.
This week, he'll pass Kobe Bryant on another scoring list.
Including playoff games, James now has 39,252 points. That leaves him 31 shy of matching Bryant for No. 3 on the all-time total points list, when including the postseason. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has 44,154 points including playoffs, Karl Malone has 41,689 and Bryant scored 39,283.
Bryant will remain No. 3 on the regular-season list, though James is on pace to pass him in that department next season.
AND MORE JAMES
One thing to think about as James enters potentially six months without any basketball: It might not be six months without any basketball.
USA Basketball certainly is hoping that's the case.
With the FIBA World Cup looming in China this summer, and with the Americans — set to be coached by Gregg Popovich — not convening for camp until more than three months after the end of the Lakers' season, it would seem like James would have plenty of time to feel refreshed and ready for a return to game action by then.
There are pros and cons that he'll consider.
Pros: He's enormously popular in China, he's greatly enjoyed playing for USA Basketball before and the chance to be coached by Popovich is going to be a major selling point.
Cons: The tournament goes until Sept. 15, which is not long before the start of NBA training camps, and the Lakers have to go to China for preseason games next fall. Even from Los Angeles, that's a long flight and it remains to be seen if James would want to make it twice in a relatively short amount of time.
A game to watch each day this week, as the playoff races continue getting hotter:
— Monday, Boston at L.A. Clippers: The Celtics are red-hot, while the Clippers' Doc Rivers is a major coach of the year candidate.
— Tuesday, San Antonio at Dallas: Spurs are 2-0 against the Mavericks this season, winning those games by a total of nine points.
— Wednesday, Golden State at Houston: The Rockets are simply rolling right now, and are 3-0 against the Warriors this season.
— Thursday, Cleveland at Orlando: The Magic will not go away in the East playoff chase, and are 6-1 since Jan. 31 in home games.
— Friday, Charlotte at Washington: They played a down-to-the-wire game last week, and both teams are fighting for their playoff lives.
— Saturday, Golden State at Oklahoma City: National TV game, and Kevin Durant's only trip this season back to his old home court.
— Sunday, Philadelphia at Milwaukee: These teams haven't played since Oct. 24, when Giannis Antetokounmpo did whatever he wanted.
Tim Reynolds is a national basketball writer for The Associated Press. Write to him at treynolds@ap.org


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Doctor re-examines evidence on UTIs in patients with spinal cord injury
IMAGE: Dr. Andrei Krassioukov is a professor of medicine at the University of British Columbia and chair in rehabilitation research with ICORD. view more
Credit: UBC and ICORD
People with spinal cord injuries rely on catheters to empty their bladder. When a well-respected publication concluded that catheters could be reused without an increased risk of infection, it didn't sit right with a Vancouver clinician and researcher. He had spoken to wheelchair athletes about this very issue while working at the Summer Paralympics in London.
"Wheelchair athletes from wealthier countries would only use each catheter once while athletes from developing countries would clean and reuse their catheters again and again," said Dr. Andrei Krassioukov, a professor of medicine at UBC and chair in rehabilitation research with ICORD. "The athletes who used catheters only once experienced three-to-four times fewer urinary tract infections than athletes who reused catheters."
Urinary tract infections can be disruptive to people's daily lives, resulting in time off work or from other activities. Antibiotics are prescribed to treat urinary tract infections. People with spinal cord injury are at higher risk for urinary tract infection.
The issue of whether people can reuse catheters or if they should be single-use has long been debated in the medical community. A catheter costs anywhere from $5 to $30 and people with spinal cord injuries use a new catheter every time they need to empty their bladder.
Around the world, and even within Canada, there are large differences in the coverage of costs for catheters. In some countries, like France, it is illegal to reuse catheters. In other places, countries cannot afford to cover the costs of single-use catheters.
Cochrane is a well-established organization that collects data from many studies and provides evidence for best practices in medicine. In 2014, Cochrane reviewed evidence from 31 clinical trials to compare single vs. multiple-use catheters and urinary tract infections. The review found that there was no convincing evidence that the incidence of infection was affected by catheterization.
From his clinical experience and his study conducted at the Paralympics, Krassioukov had a "gut feeling" that the results were wrong. He assembled a team of experts from around the world to re-examine the evidence. They found a number of errors and wrote to Cochrane's acting editor-in-chief to alert him. An updated analysis by Cochrane, published in 2017, has since been withdrawn.
The team also systematically reviewed all 31 trials included in the 2014 Cochrane review and performed a meta-analysis of the data. They published their own findings last month in the Journal of Neurotrauma, indicating that the studies tend to favour single-use catheters.
"Until evidence can confidently demonstrate that multiple use is as safe as single use, health-care providers should advocate for single-use of catheters since catheter cleaning is a major issue," said Krassioukov. "This will affect the direction on how we manage patients."
While several groups have tried to develop catheters and sterilization techniques so that catheters can be reused safely, they have yet to be successful. When catheters are reused, bacteria are introduced that can cause infection in the urinary tract.
Co-authors of this study include Kathleen Christison, a UBC medical student who conducted this research as part of her program, Matthias Walter, a postdoctoral fellow at ICORD, Vanessa Noonan and Nader Fallah from the Rick Hansen Institute, and international collaborators Jean-Jacque Wyndaele, Dr. Michael Kennelly and Dr. Thomas Kessler.
Additional quotes:
Márcio Averbeck, head of neuro-urology at Moinhos de Vento Hospital in Brazil: "Most of my peers in Brazil do give a lot of value to the Cochrane reviews. The medical community truly appreciated the critical appraisal of the Cochrane review regarding re-use of catheters and urinary tract infections. It will impact our clinical practice in Brazil."
Ari Seirlis, chief executive officer of QuadPara Association of South Africa: "For many years, I was using a catheter for months at a time, washing the catheter between uses, and reusing it until it got replaced. This came with numerous bladder infections. Since using single-use catheters, I have not had a bladder infection in the last three years at least."
Cheryl Niamath
niamath@icord.org
@UBCnews
http://www.ubc.ca
Journal of Neurotrauma
HEALTH CARE SYSTEMS/SERVICES
TRAUMA/INJURY
Dr. Andrei Krassioukov, University of British Columbia (IMAGE)
https://news.ubc.ca/2017/12/13/gut-feeling-spurs-doctor-to-re-examine-evidence-on-urinary-tract-infections-in-patients-with-spinal-cord-injury
http://dx.doi.org/10.1089/neu.2017.5413


1. Cut netting into squares about 4 1/2" x 4 1/2"
4. Take 2 black pipe cleaners and cut them in half. Now wrap each of the 4 pieces around the end.
5. Bend the 8 sides in angles to look like spider legs.
6. With a hot glue gun, glue 2 googly eyes to the top of the pouch.
Check out our other Class Party and Treat Ideas for Halloween!


Who can forget the glamorous early 20th century, when air travel was changing the world while SF pulps and comic strips were corrupting the minds of that era's youth and preparing to change the world all over again? Artist Steve Thomas clearly can't, and his beautiful posters combine old school illustrations and design with the promise of space travel. We've got the full set for you to view under the jump.


The Middletown, Ohio Balloon Festival known as The Ohio Challenge Presented by Selection.com hot air balloon festival returns annually to Middletown's Smith Park as one of Butler County's most unique festivals. The festival takes place in early July features over 35 colorful hot air balloons, a laser show, fireworks and more!
The balloon festival in Middletown, Ohio returns bigger every year, recently the festival has introduced balloon rides and a kid's splash pad, in addition to its already loaded list of family fun activities.
The carnival style festival also includes over 30 skilled balloon pilots competing in aerial balloon challenges, performers showcasing circus aerial acrobatics, a classic car show, carnival rides, live stage entertainment, arts and crafts, a trackless train and more!
Be sure not to miss out on the Middletown, Ohio Balloon Festival most popular events and activities: a fluff and puff cold air balloon walk, tethered balloon rides, skydiving demonstrations by Middletown's award winning Team Fastrax and the famous evening balloon glow.
The Ohio Challenge Presented by Selection.com is among only a handful of unique and one-of-a-kind summer balloon festivals in Ohio. Don't miss out on a festival full of picturesque photo ops, family games and activities, and the beauty and wonder of aerial art.
The 2019 Ohio Challenge will take place on July 19-20, 2019.
Check out this television spotlight of The Ohio Challenge Presented by Selection.com from Our Ohio features on ThinkTV.
For more information about other upcoming Butler County events, please visit our events calendar.
For more information about The Ohio Challenge Presented by Selection.com visit www.ohiochallenge.com.


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redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


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How to Get Rid of Spider Veins and Varicose Veins
Adobe Stock / GVS
Related Condition Centers
This isn't a DIY situation.
By Jessica Cruel and Sarah Jacoby
If you're wondering how to get rid of spider veins, you've probably already come across a bunch of the internet's suggestions. When I noticed a series of faint blue lines twisting around my thigh, some of the recommended home remedies I saw included ginger tea, massage, and even exercise. But here's the honest truth: That's all B.S. Visible veins aren't something you can fix at home.
So I talked to dermatologists and surgeons who specialize in treating spider veins and varicose veins (the larger, raised visible veins that often appear on the legs). What I learned is that the underlying causes of these visible veins aren't always preventable—and they can be a sign of a much deeper vein problem that no home remedy is likely to fix. Here's how to get rid of spider veins for real—and why it's so important to see a specialist to do so.
What actually are spider veins?
There are two common types of visible veins: spider veins and varicose veins. "Spider veins are really small superficial veins that are in the outer layer of skin between the dermis and epidermis, so you can see them," Christopher Hollingsworth, M.D., a general surgeon at NYC Surgical Associates, tells SELF. "If you live long enough, most people are going to get them." These veins get their name because they look like thin, weblike, blue-and-purple lines on the legs.
Varicose veins, on the other hand, are larger veins that are deeper in the body. "You won't see them as a discoloration, you'll see them when they get so stretched out that they kind of bulge," Dr. Hollingsworth says.
Because these two issues are caused by similar blood-flow situations, varicose and spider veins commonly occur together. That means that people who have varicose veins almost always have spider veins too. However, some people get spider veins and never have a problem with varicose veins.
What causes spider veins and other visible veins?
To understand why these visible veins develop, you've got to understand how blood flows through the body. Your heart pumps blood to your entire body through your blood vessels. From there, blood circulates outward toward the extremities (legs, arms, head) through the arteries and back inward to the heart through your veins.
"Think of veins as being a hose that flows from bottom-up toward your heart," says dermatologist Alicia Barba, M.D., of Barba Dermatology. "And there's a little valve. When they work well, the blood shoots up and the valve closes. When it doesn't work, the blood falls back down instead of moving north."
When blood flows in the wrong direction because of a valve problem, it can get backed up in the veins of the legs, which damages the walls of the vein, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) explains. That extra pressure on the vein walls gradually causes them to weaken and then bulge, creating veins we can actually see. In fact, the majority of people who have spider veins and/or varicose veins will be dealing with this type of "venous insufficiency," Dr. Hollingsworth says.
However, other factors can contribute to the likelihood that you'll develop visible veins, including genetics, age, and your level of physical activity, the AAD says.
For instance, if you have a job where you are standing still for long periods of time, gravity is at work pulling the blood back down toward the legs, causing the veins to get stretched out and the valves to weaken over time. If you sit all day at your job, you can also start to see visible veins because there is a lack of muscle movement. The muscles in the leg help the veins push the blood back up toward the heart, so moving around during the day can help prevent visible veins. (That rumor that crossing your legs can cause spider veins isn't true, so go ahead and cross 'em if you like—just make sure that you get out of your chair and move around during the day to get the blood pumping.)
There is some research to suggest that carrying extra weight can impact the function of your veins and, therefore, also increase your risk for visible veins. Having more fat around your stomach (visceral fat) can increase the pressure in your abdomen, Dr. Hollingsworth says, which then creates an obstruction that blocks the flow of blood. "That increased pressure dilates the veins, which extends all the way through the lower vein bridge and all the way up to the veins in your skin," he explains.
A similar situation happens during pregnancy when the added pressure in the abdomen squeezes the veins. But the hormonal shifts that happen during pregnancy may also play a role. "When women are exposed to excess estrogen or progesterone, what it tends to do is make your soft tissue a little more flexible," Dr. Hollingsworth says. "That same process, we think, is affecting the veins, making them predisposed to dilate and stretch out." After pregnancy, the veins generally go away and everything returns to normal. This vein weakening can also happen if you're taking hormonal birth control.
Although visible veins may seem like a purely superficial issue, they can become painful when left untreated. "Spider and varicose veins make your legs sore because it's an inflammatory process," Dr. Hollingsworth says. "Those veins are getting dilated and stretched out. They're trying to signal for help in the only way they know how, which is sending off a local inflammatory biochemical that causes your legs to swell and to be sore." So preventing and treating spider veins can save you from a lot of discomfort.
Can you do anything to prevent spider veins?
There are a few different underlying causes of vein issues that are preventable or reversible, while others aren't. For instance, if your visible veins are largely due to inherited factors, pregnancy, or how active you can be during the work day, that's not likely something you have a ton of control over.
But there are some general things you can do to prevent them, such as maintaining physical activity during the day. If you sit at work all day, the AAD recommends getting up and walking around a bit every 30 minutes. Or, if you stand at work for long periods of time, the AAD recommends taking a break and sitting down every 30 minutes. And exercising in general, elevating your legs when possible, and avoiding soaking for long periods of time in hot baths can help prevent visible veins as well, the AAD says.
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However, these strategies can't treat any visible veins you already have.
You'll need to see a specialist to actually treat visible veins.
If you're wondering how to get rid of spider veins for good, know that Dr. Hollingsworth says those wacky home remedies won't work. Dry brushing? Nope. Fancy body lotions? Nah. Massage? It might feel good, but there won't be a visible difference.
"There's nothing really that you can do aside from the small minimally invasive treatments we have that is going to make spider veins look any better," he says. "Creams, ointments, or rubbing aren't going to make spider veins go away."
The primary way that spider and varicose veins are treated is by using different surgical methods to close off the vein so that it collapses and the residual scar tissue stops the blood flow completely. These are all superficial veins, so other healthy veins just take over their circulation duties and the procedure won't impact your overall health. Also, those with more serious, bulging varicose veins can have them removed completely once the vein is closed off.
Sclerotherapy: This is one of the more popular options for spider veins and varicose veins. A doctor injects a foamy detergent or concentrated saltwater solution into the problematic vein, which irritates the walls of the blood vessel, explains Neil Sadick, M.D., founder of Sadick Dermatology. This causes scar tissue to form, which leads the blood vessel to close. If someone is allergic to the sclerotherapy solution, there are other treatment options.
Laser treatment: A vein surgeon or dermatologist might use a laser treatment to heat the vein, causing it to contract and scar over. Dr Hollingsworth uses a handheld Nd:YAG laser (the same machine that can be used in laser hair removal) on small spider veins. Or, if it's a larger varicose vein, a laser may be inserted into the vein using a catheter to stop blood flow.
Medical glue: For varicose veins, doctors might also use is the medical version of superglue. "Cyanoacrylate glue is a biologic glue that's very similar to Krazy Glue," Dr. Hollingsworth says. Surgeons close off a varicose vein by gluing it shut from the inside. "You inject it, wait for the glue to set, and move further down, and so on and so on."
Radio frequency ablation (RFA): This is another option for varicose veins that are so large that glue and sclero just float away. "RFA runs radio frequency through the inside of the vein and turns the inside of the vein into a lightbulb filament, heats it up, scars it, and kills it," says Dr. Hollingsworth.
To prevent visible veins from getting worse, a surgeon might use RFA or internal laser techniques to close off a larger vein deeper in the leg that feeds the smaller varicose veins and spider veins. "There's a central pipe in the leg called the saphenous vein; it's the main superficial vein. Coming off those veins are truncal varicose veins," Dr. Sadick says. Once the larger vein is taken care of, the smaller veins can be treated with sclerotherapy, glue, or a handheld laser.
All of these treatments are performed through tiny punctures in the skin, so you can likely schedule your procedure in the morning and go back to work in the afternoon. However, Dr. Barba warns about getting these treatments on darker skin tones, especially laser and RFA procedures, because those with darker skin tones have a higher risk for hyperpigmentation issues following the treatments. Plus, those pigmentation issues can be stubborn to treat. "Sometimes the pigmentation is a part of the healing process," Dr. Barba says. "If you care about a little spider vein, you might care about the pigment that's going to be there for a couple months."
Whatever treatment you go with, the key is to go to a doctor who specializes in vein treatments, whether that's a dermatologist or a vein surgeon. "If you want have anything done, go to whoever does a lot of it," Dr. Hollingsworth says. The good news is that insurance will cover many vein treatments. Without insurance, these treatments can cost $300 to $8,000. "Oftentimes, when it is a deeper vein problem, insurance covers it because it's not [just] a cosmetic issue," Dr. Barba says.
How can you prevent spider veins from coming back?
Although effective, all of these surgical treatments are really temporary fixes, Dr. Hollingsworth says. Spider and varicose veins can return in other nearby veins once the original veins are closed off or removed. So, if you decide not to treat them at all, they can multiply, Dr. Hollingsworth says. But if you stay on top of them—which will require repeated treatments every one to two years—you can keep them at bay.
After treatment, one thing you can do to effectively prevent spider veins from returning is to wear compression stockings daily, which can be difficult to get on and uncomfortable to wear. "Nobody likes wearing them," Dr. Hollingsworth says. But, "if you wear stockings religiously during the day, they significantly reduce [the chance that] your spider veins [will come] back." In some cases, your health insurance may actually cover the cost of medical-grade compression stockings, Medline Plus explains, so check with them before buying any.
Ultimately, if you're dealing with spider veins or varicose veins, it's important to check in with a doctor or dermatologist. They can help you understand how serious your particular issue is, talk about what may underlying issues may have caused it, and, if necessary, walk you through your treatment options.
All the Ways Skin Laser Treatments Fix Spots, Scars, and Redness
Considering Undereye Filler? Here's What to Expect
How to Find the Right Acne Scar Treatment Procedure for You—With or Without Lasers
A Southern belle trying to find beauty in the Big City. Collects candles—but never burns them—and has a fridge stocked with face masks. Believes all-black-everything is a lifestyle choice, not just a dress code. Prefers tequila to wine and tea over coffee. Mantra: Everything is better after a bath.
Sarah Jacoby was the Associate News Director at SELF. She's an experienced health and science journalist who is particularly interested in the science of skin care, sexual and reproductive health, drugs and drug policy, and mental health. Sarah is a graduate of NYU's Science, Health, and Environmental Reporting Program and... Read more
SELF does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional.
Topicsspider veinsvaricose veinsSkin CarePregnancy
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Texas Rangers: Should Mike Napoli Return to Arlington in 2018?
By Andrew Webb
MINNEAPOLIS, MN - AUGUST 06: Mike Napoli (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) /
The 2017 season isn't over just yet, but it's hard to deny slugger Mike Napoli has been struggling. Should the team bring him back in 2018 or is the party over after this season?
To say the Texas Rangers offense is reliant on the home run ball is an understatement. The organization lives and dies from the long ball and it's hurting the team in the long run.
The Rangers have three players with 20 home runs or more on the team currently. All three are also leading the team in strikeouts. Two players are young and could develop more discipline, but Mike Napoli isn't changing anytime soon.
Most seasons Napoli has been able to balance out his huge strikeout rate. That is not the case this season as he only has 32 walks with 125 strikeouts in 94 games. The 22 home runs has been helpful, but not nearly the production the Rangers expected.
Coming into 2017 Napoli was on top of the world after having a career year with the Indians. He hit 34 home runs and 101 RBI and finished with a 1.0 WAR. He signed a one-year deal with the Rangers, but does have a team option for 2018.
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The Rangers should be careful before they accept Napoli's $11 million team option for 2018. The 35-year-old veteran has not exactly helped the Rangers. This season Napoli has a -0.4 WAR through 94 games with Texas.
Before the 2017 season began adding Napoli seemed like a smart move. He's a veteran player with power and had three trips to the postseason with Texas. The direction of the organization has now changed and Napoli doesn't fit in anymore.
The Rangers have 22-year-old Ronald Guzman who deserves a shot in the MLB. Through 101 games Guzman is hitting .313 with 12 home runs and 56 RBI in Triple-A. It's hard to imagine the Rangers keeping Guzman down there for much longer.
It would be surprising to see Guzman not be called up in September. He should be eased into the first base role in 2018 with Joey Gallo. After 2018 Gallo will likely take over third base, it's not a terrible idea to continue giving him reps at first base.
Next: Which Rangers Have Been The Biggest Surprises?
At the end of the day the Rangers organization is heading in a younger direction. They want more all-around players and not just home run or nothing sluggers. The Rangers should decline Napoli's team option for 2018 and let Guzman play first base.


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Upminster is a suburban town in East London, England, within the London Borough of Havering. Located  east-northeast of Charing Cross, it is one of the district centres identified for development in the London Plan.

Historically a rural village, Upminster grew from the ancient parish of St. Lawrence, in the union of Romford; part of the hundred of Chafford and the historic county of Essex.  The economic history of Upminster is characterised by a shift from farming to brick making to garden suburb. It is currently mainly commercial shopping, small businesses and residential.

It was first connected to central London by rail in 1885 and has a terminal station on the London Underground network. As part of the suburban growth of London in the 20th century, Upminster significantly expanded and increased in population, becoming part of Hornchurch Urban District in 1934, and has formed part of Greater London since 1965.

History

Toponymy

The placename Upminster is first recorded in 1062 as Upmynstre and is recorded in the 1086 Domesday Book as Upmunstra. It is formed from Old English upp and mynster, meaning 'the large church on high ground'. The high ground of St Laurence's parish church being in relation to the valley of the River Ingrebourne and the Upminster Bridge over the river shares the name. An alternative explanation suggests the upp could refer to the geographical relationship to a church at Barking or Tilbury in Anglo-Saxon times.

Economic development
There was a Roman farmstead in the Upminster area from the 1st century to the 3rd century, and agriculture was the predominant industry throughout the following centuries.

The area was once wooded, but clearances in the 12th century gave more land over to arable farming; and by the 17th century there were a variety of crops and livestock. There was a growth in market gardening in the 19th century. There have been a number of windmills in Upminster and one of which, a smock mill built in 1803, remains. Local industry included a tannery, gravel extraction and a brick works that was connected to the railway station by a tramway in 1895.

The London, Tilbury and Southend Railway from Fenchurch Street was extended from Barking to Upminster in 1885. The underground Whitechapel and Bow Railway opened in 1902 and allowed through services of the District Railway to operate to Upminster. The District converted to electric trains in 1905 and services were cut back to East Ham. Delayed by World War I, electrified tracks were extended by the London, Midland and Scottish Railway to Upminster and through services resumed in 1932.

Local government

Upminster formed an ancient parish of  in the Chafford hundred of Essex. The parish vestry had meetings in the church until 1798, when they moved to the Bell Inn. The parish was divided into North and South wards by the Hornchurch to Cranham road. In 1836 the vestry lost control of poor relief, with Upminster becoming part of the Romford Poor Law Union and in 1875 the parish became part of Romford rural sanitary district. Following the Local Government Act 1894, the sanitary district became Romford Rural District and a parish council was formed of nine members, increasing to twelve by 1913 as the population had doubled. The parish council acquired the Clock House building on St Mary's Lane for use as offices in 1924. The parish formed part of the London Traffic Area from 1924 and the London Passenger Transport Area from 1933. In 1934 the parish council was abolished and Upminster was combined with other parishes to form part of Hornchurch Urban District. In 1965 the urban district was abolished and its former area was combined with that of Municipal Borough of Romford; and since then has formed part of the London Borough of Havering in Greater London as set out in the 1963 London Government Act

Urban development
The parish had three early centres of activity; the village around the church and the settlements of Hacton and Corbets Tey. The estates of Gaynes, New Place and Upminster Hall were purchased during the 17th century by merchants in the City of London. This caused a significant number of buildings in the town to be constructed or improved. Upkeep of the three bridges crossing the Ingrebourne were the responsibility of Upminster, as the adjacent Hornchurch parish was in the Havering liberty and was exempt from responsibility because of its charter. Although the opening of the station was key to the development of the suburb, land was not purchased for development until  were secured in 1901.

Electricity was introduced in Upminster in 1926. Gas main supply came from Romford in 1872 and from 1905 there was gas street lighting. The area was served by good spring water, with mains supply provided by the South Essex Waterworks Company from 1836. Works on the sewerage system began in 1899 in Upminster village and Corbets Tey. In 1922 sewage works for Upminster and Cranham were opened in Great Warley. Land for Upminster Park was purchased by the parish council in 1929.

Governance

The town forms part of the Hornchurch and Upminster UK Parliament constituency, and is covered by the Havering wards of Upminster and Cranham. The current MP is Julia Lopez. Each ward elects three councillors to Havering London Borough Council. All six councillors elected in 2010 for the two wards were the Upminster and Cranham Residents' Association candidates and the area is unusual in that the residents' association is strongly active. From 1945 to 1974 Upminster formed part of the Hornchurch constituency and from 1974 to 2010 it formed part of the Upminster constituency. Upminster is within the Havering and Redbridge London Assembly constituency.

Geography

Upminster rises to about  above sea level to the north and is about  above sea level to the south. It rests on a layer of loam, above sand and gravel in the south and London Clay to the north. It is bounded in the west by the River Ingrebourne and there is a stream running east–west, just north of Corbets Tey that has been dammed to form a lake. It has formed part of the continuously built-up area of London since the 1930s and is contiguous with Cranham to the east and Hornchurch to the west. To the north and south there is open land that forms part of the Metropolitan Green Belt and there are open spaces formed by Upminster Golf Club and Upminster Hall Playing Field to the north, Upminster Park and Clock House Gardens to the south, and the Ingrebourne Valley linear park to the south west. The town is effectively divided into north and south parts by the railway line. The north is predominantly residential, with the southern part containing the main shopping area. Further south it becomes predominantly residential again. Upminster is a post town in the RM postcode area; it forms a long protrusion over the M25 motorway and additionally includes North Ockendon, also in Havering, and Bulphan in Thurrock.

Demography

The Havering committee area for Upminster is defined as the wards of Upminster and Cranham. Demographic data is produced by the Office for National Statistics for these wards. All of Upminster is contained within these wards, however they also cover the connected settlement of Cranham and the rural outlier of North Ockendon. In 2001 the population of Upminster ward was 12,674 and Cranham ward was 12,242, giving a total population of 25,098. 80.95% in Upminster and 81.73% in Cranham report their religion as Christian, compared to 76.13% for Havering, 58.23% in London and 71.74% in England. 10.08% in Upminster and 10.46% in Cranham report having no religion, compared to 13.18% in Havering, 15.76% in London and 14.59% in England. With a black and minority ethnic population of 3% in 2001, Cranham and Upminster wards have the lowest Simpson index for ethnic diversity in London. The level of home ownership is atypically high compared to the rest of London and England, with over 90% of housing tenure under owner-occupation in both wards. The Upminster ward has one of the lowest levels of deprivation in London.

The 2011 census showed that the population was 96% white (92% British, 2% Other, 2% Irish). Indian, Chinese and Black African were 1% each. 75% of the population is Christian, the highest in London.

Economy
Upminster is identified in the London Plan as a local district centre with  of commercial floorspace. It is not considered a significant commercial office location. Within Havering, it is identified as one of seven town centres in the borough, with a retail area extending along Station Road, St Mary's Lane and Corbets Tey Road. The unit sizes are mostly small with the largest outlets the Roomes Fashion and Home department store, the Roomes Furniture and Interiors furniture store, and the Aldi, M&S Simply Food and Waitrose supermarkets.

Transport

The town is served by Upminster station on the London, Tilbury and Southend line and the London Underground, in London fare zone 6. The western part of the town is also served by Upminster Bridge tube station. Upminster and Upminster Bridge are on the District line of the London Underground, with  services to Richmond, Ealing Broadway and Wimbledon via central London. The station at Upminster is served by National Rail operator c2c who provide services to Fenchurch Street via West Ham; Shoeburyness via Basildon; and Southend via Chafford Hundred. London Overground operate services to Romford via Emerson Park. There are Transport for London bus services to Hornchurch, Romford, North Ockendon, Lakeside Shopping Centre and Cranham. To the south of Upminster is Damyns Hall Aerodrome. The A127 road to the north is the main radial artery to central London, with the A124 road terminating in the town. The M25 motorway is located about  to the east of the town centre.

Culture

Havering Council's urban strategy recognises that nearby Hornchurch is the main cultural hub of the borough with a large theatre and arts spaces, and Romford offers the largest regional concentration of entertainment facilities. Within Upminster is New Windmill Hall, a flexible entertainment space, built in 1968, which holds up to 300 people. Upminster forms part of the tourism strategy for the borough. It is the location of Upminster Windmill, one of the few remaining mills in Greater London and is Grade II* listed. There is also the Tithe Barn Museum, containing artifacts of domestic and agricultural use. In the west of Upminster is Hornchurch Stadium, which is the home ground of A.F.C. Hornchurch. Upminster is often associated with Ian Dury and his 1981 album Lord Upminster is named after the town.

Speed of sound
The speed of sound was first accurately calculated by the Reverend William Derham, Rector of Upminster, thus improving on Sir Isaac Newton's estimates.  Derham used a telescope from the tower of the church of St Laurence, Upminster to observe the flash of a distant shotgun being fired, and then measured the time until he heard the gunshot with a half-second pendulum. Measurements were made of gunshots from a number of local landmarks, including the Church of St Mary Magdalene, North Ockendon. The distance was known by triangulation, and thus the speed that the sound had travelled could be calculated.

See also
List of people from Havering
List of schools in Havering

References

External links

Havering London Borough Council: A history of Upminster
Essex walks - Upminster

Areas of London
Districts of the London Borough of Havering
District centres of London

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The Adaptive SEO Methodology - WSI Digital Moxie Inc.
Over the last five years, there's one word that aptly describes the SEO (search engine optimization) experience of small businesses, large companies and even some marketers. That word is confusion.
Depending on the year, the knowledge and morality of the SEO agency from which you bought services, and the most recent Google algorithm update, the resulting effects ranged from minor to catastrophic. Unfortunately for many companies, their torpedoed rankings, decreased site traffic and tumbling sales left them scrambling for help or completely in the dark about the state of their SEO efforts.
There's absolutely no doubt that the term 'SEO' now comes with an unfairly negative stigma. Yet that still doesn't validate the notion that SEO is dead, it just presents a larger set of obstacles. But perhaps there's a silver lining for companies who can see beyond the pessimistic press and realize that core SEO best practices still work.
There's often a competitive edge to be gained for those who are able to think outside the box. Given the current state of its perception within the media and despite the fact that search engines still dominate the Internet user's experience, it's not a stretch to think that an effective, long term SEO strategy is something your competitors are ignoring. Ultimately, the new version of SEO – what WSI likes to call AdaptiveSEO™ (ASEO) – involves cutting out-dated tactics and implementing a more natural approach to obtaining organic rankings and traffic, all the while adhering to Google's aggressive guidelines. Harder and more in-depth? Yes. Will you need to devote more time, energy and resources in order to sustain an effective long-term strategy? Yes.


Last month, I was thrilled to share the stage with John Hoffman and Elly Hoyt at the Gold Coast City Jazz Club – a great fortnightly concert held at the Southport Bowls Club. The audience was very receptive and appreciative of our performance. Col Atkinson, Gold Coast jazz musician and member of the Club, put together this review of the concert.
The GCCJC was privileged to host the John Hoffman Quartet on Mon 19 May, John being without a doubt one of the Premier Flugal Horn players in Australia today. John came to Australia from the United States more than 20 years ago and apart from his busy playing schedule he has also taught many of our current young and fine musicians that we have today at the Brisbane Conservatorium and living up to that reputation, John brought along with him some of the very finest young musicians that he is currently teaching today. So – Young Min (Piano) Lachlan Hawkins (Drums) Helen Svoboda (Upright Bass) and John also had an ace card up his sleeve as the also brought with him the James Morrison award winning songstress Elly Hoyt to top off this fabulous quintet.
John and the band opened with the tune, Just In Time, a favourite of everyone's, followed by Gee Baby Aint I Good To You, and then John and the band actually played one of my favourite tunes called Softly As In A Morning Sunrise. Elly then got up and wowed the crowd with a nice boss nova and Dianna Krall song called, Este Seu Olhar followed by My Funny Valentine. John then asked So – Young to play one of her own compositions to end the first set which was called A Breath Of Fresh Air and if the audience hadn't already warmed to So – Young, they warmed to her now because the applause was overwhelming for her as her Piano playing was superb and an ovation was well deserved.
John opened up Set Two by playing one of his favourite tunes called, Weaver Of Dreams, followed by a very nice bossa nova called, Moon Alley. Elly returned to sing that timeless classic What A Difference A Day Makes and the audience were thrilled when she also sang for them, God Bless This Child. Both John and Elly then had a well earned rest and left it to So – Young, Helen and Lachlan to play, Darn That Dream. John came back to play What Can I Say After I Say I'm Sorry and then So – Young, Helen, John and Lochie as he is affectionately known played a roaring rendition of Pete Kelly's Blues, then Elly finished the 2nd set with a composition she wrote herself, quite aptly called Elly's Blues.
John open the 3rd set by playing that great Joe Henderson tune called Recorder Me, which in Spanish simply means Remember Me. Awesome stuff John. Elly then came up to sing another song that she had composed and dedicated it to an old friend. The song was written in ¾ or waltz time and was called, I Hope To See You Again One Day, then Elly and John did some great counterpoint together as John played and Elly sang, Stompin At The Savoy. So – Young then played another one of her compositions called Self Portrait and once again So – Young was very warmly received.
It was time to close the show and so the band finished up with an old favourite called, It Could Happen To You but after a great night of Jazz and appreciation by the audience for every individual musician, an encore was inevitable and so John and the gang played The Girl From Ipanema and for a change they did it in a swing style instead of the normal Latin feel.


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> You mean Airstar? Or the Skystar for DVB-S?
Now I can tune all channels.


At The Law Offices of Edward Deason here in Torrance, we take all kinds of injury cases seriously. This is particularly true of serious auto accidents that lead to severe or fatal injuries. The victims of these accidents and their loved ones need skilled litgators on their side, which is why they can rely on us and our legal expertise.
If you live in California, you have to drive to get around most places. Given the number of vehicles on the road, we all accept a certain amount of risk when we get behind the wheel or ride as a passenger. Highways and freeways are especially crucial for getting around, but they tend to be quite dangerous for a number of reasons.
Despite issues with traffic, we generally travel significantly faster on highways than on city streets. This increased speed leads to a number of dangers. For one, the force generated from a collision of vehicles at high speeds can be tremendous, causing major injuries. In addition, speeding on highways tends to lead to more reckless behaviors (e.g., frequent lane changes, swerving), which makes the road a much more dangerous place for everyone.
In addition to issues with speed, there are far more vehicles on highways, and many times they are very closely packed. This means that multiple vehicles can potentially strike each other on the highway, causing multi-vehicle collisions. These kinds of accidents can prove extremely severe and even deadly.
Large trucks are such an important part of state and interstate commerce, hauling goods to their destinations along the roads of America. Yet the large trucks that we share the road with pose a number of hazards to motorists.
The loads being hauled by the large trucks can come loose and wind up on the road, creating many hazards. These trucks also have large blind spots, which means collisions can occur if the truck driver and commuters aren't being attentive. If the large trucks strike commuter vehicles, the injuries can be devastating.
Two-lane highways around remote or rural areas can cause some motorists to become frustrated when slower vehicles are ahead. These motorists may try to overtake the slower vehicle, which can result in a deadly head-on collision with traffic moving in the opposite direction in the other lane.
For more information about how a layer can help you following a serious auto accident, be sure to contact the legal team at our personal injury law firm today. At The Law Offices of Edward Deason, we will make sure that you have the information you need to make strong and informed choices during the litigation process.