In...English

Stop Child Labour

2012-01-05T13:14:00.000Z

"Chaga and the Chocolate Factory" is the name of the short story we are studying in the English class. It describes the inhuman conditions young children have to face in the cocoa plantations in the Ivory Coast, West Africa. Children are forced to work long hours, they are beaten and at night they are put in shackles.
It's time to put an end to Child Labour!
Let Kids go to School and be Happy!

2011-12-29T15:08:00.000Z

FADO: World’s Intangible Cultural Heritage

2011-11-27T15:30:00.000Z

Fado, the Portuguese most traditional music genre, was added to UNESCO’s list of World’s Intangible Cultural Heritage. According to UNESCO, intangible heritage includes traditions and skills passed on within cultures.

watch the video

Foi uma decisão esperada durante toda a madrugada e houve sofrimento e nervosismo até ao ultimo momento. E, no final da cerimónia, a delegação portuguesa agradeceu aos delegados da UNESCO com a ajuda da voz de Amália.

No Smoking Day- 17th November

2011-11-17T10:00:00.000Z

Smoking can cause lung cancer, cardiovascular diseases, high blood pressure, ...
There are many health-related reasons to give up cigarettes - not just for smokers, but to protect those around you. Babies born to mothers who smoke during pregnancy are twice as likely to be born prematurely and with a low birth weight.

Stopping smoking is the single biggest thing you can do to improve your health, although it' s a difficult task, you should try.

International Day for Tolerance- 16th November

2011-11-16T09:30:00.000Z

Building tolerance and trust in diverse communities is not done overnight,
but takes time and commitment.
Building tolerance requires access to education. We need to place greater emphasis on educating children about tolerance, human rights and fundamental freedoms. But we should not forget that education does not end in school, that adults - firstly as individuals capable of committing acts of intolerance, but more importantly in their capacity as parents, law-makers and law-enforcement officials - also need to be considered a priority target of the educational efforts.

Decalaration of Principles of Tolearance ( Unesco )

MTV winners 2011

2011-11-09T14:00:00.000Z

The 18th. Edition of the event was held in Belfast, Northern Ireland, attended by several artists and performance of today such as the American rapper Eminem, Linkin Park, Bruno Mars, 30 Seconds from Mars and Big Bang. Lady Gaga was definitely the star of the night, collecting four major awards: Best Female Artist, Best Song, Best Video and most fans. Justin Bieber took home the awards for Best Male Artist and also the title of Best Pop Artist

MTV EMA 2011

Halloween

2011-10-31T19:40:00.000Z

Unlike many other festivals, the history of Halloween is also inspired through traditions that have transpired through ages from one generation to another. The name Halloween is Scottish in origin and is short for "All Hallow's Eve," the night before "All Hallow's Day," or All Saint's Day.

The basic traditions associated with Halloween are as follows :

JACK'O LANTERN : These are hollowed out pumpkins with a face cut into one side. People once carved out beets, potatoes and turnips to use as lanterns on Halloween. Nowadays we carve out pumpkins. According to an Irish legend, jack-o-lanterns were named for a man named Jack, who could not enter heaven because he was a miser. He could not enter hell either, because he had played jokes on the devil. So instead, he had to walk the earth with a lantern until Judgment Day. This was later brought into existence as one of the most popular halloween tradition.

Fire : Fire is an integral part of the halloween tradition. Fire was very important to the Celts as it was to all early people. In the old days people lit bonfires, to scare away evil spirits. They believed that light had power over darkness. In some places they used to jump over the fire to bring good luck. Today, we light candles in pumpkin lanterns and then put them outside our homes to frighten away witches and ghosts.

Dressing up :The tradition of dressing in costume for Halloween has both European and Celtic roots. On Halloween, when it was believed that ghosts came back to the earthly world, people thought that they would encounter ghosts if they left their homes. To avoid being recognized by these ghosts, people would wear masks when they left their homes after dark so that the ghosts would mistake them for fellow spirits. To keep ghosts away from their houses on Halloween, people would place bowls of food outside their homes to appease the ghosts and prevent them from attempting to enter. Halloween costumes is by far the most important and the most interesting customs of halloween.

Trick or Treat :Halloween was a time for making mischief - many parts of England still recognise Halloween as Mischief Night - when children would knock on doors demanding a treat (Trick or Treat) and people would disguise themselves as witches, ghosts, kelpies and spunkies, in order to obtain food and money from nervous householders. Till date on the halloween day children disguise themselves and go knocking from door to dorr shouting "Trick or Treat". The people usually entertain children by handing out candies to them.

Halloween Quiz ( British Council ;Learn English Kids )

World Poetry Day (21st March)

2011-10-21T10:01:00.000+01:00

World Poetry Day was declared by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) in 1999. The purpose of the day is to promote the reading, writing, publishing and teaching of poetry throughout the world and, as the UNESCO session declaring the day says, to "give fresh recognition and impetus to national, regional and international poetry movements".

Fernando António Nogueira Pessoa

Portugal [1888-1935] Poeta

Ó mar salgado, quanto do teu sal
São lágrimas de Portugal!
Por te cruzarmos, quantas mães choraram,
Quantos filhos em vão rezaram!
Quantas noivas ficaram por casar
Para que fosses nosso, ó mar!
Valeu a pena? Tudo vale a pena
Se a alma não é pequena.
Quem quer passar além do Bojador
Tem que passar além da dor.
Deus ao mar o perigo e o abismo deu,
Mas nele é que espelhou o céu.

Florbela de Alma Conceição Espanca
Portugal
[1894-1930]
Poetisa

Não tenhas medo, não! Tranquilamente,
Como adormece a noite pelo Outono,
Fecha os teus olhos, simples, docemente,
Como, à tarde, uma pomba que tem sono…
A cabeça reclina levemente
E os braços deixa-os ir ao abandono,
Como tombam, arfando, ao sol poente,
As asas de uma pomba que tem sono…
O que há depois? Depois?…O azul dos céus?
Um outro mundo? O eterno nada? Deus?
Um abismo? Um castigo? Uma guarida?
Que importa? Que te importa, ó moribundo?
– Seja o que for, será melhor que o mundo!
Tudo será melhor do que esta vida!…

International Day for the Eradication of Poverty - 17th October

2011-10-17T09:30:00.000+01:00

The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty has been observedevery year since 1993, when the General Assembly, designated this day to promote awareness of the need to eradicate poverty and destitutionin all countries, particularly in developing countries - a need that hasbecome a development priority.

The theme for this year is International Day for the Eradication of Poverty -- “Working together out of poverty”

So, let's join hands and fight poverty!

World Teacher's Day ( 5th October )

2011-10-05T10:30:00.000+01:00

The United Nations' (UN) World Teachers' Day celebrates the role teachers play in providing quality education at all levels. This enables children and adults of all ages to learn to take part in and contribute to their local community and global society.

Our task is extremely rewarding.
I wish all the teachers a good school year !

International School Library Month

2011-10-01T22:14:00.001+01:00

October is being celebrated as International School Library Month (previously International School Library Day held on the fourth Monday in October). School librarians around the world have a unique opportunity to share with each other, and perhaps more importantly, others in education and in our school communities.

Go to our school libray and enjoy the pleasure of reading!

Super tramp ( school )

2011-09-12T18:50:00.002+01:00

After school is over you're playing in the park

Don't be out too late, don't let it get too dark

They tell you not to hang around and learn what life's about

And grow up just like them, won't you let it work it out?

And you're full of doubt

Don't do this and don't do that

What are they trying to do? Make a good boy of you

Do they know where it's at?

Don't criticize, they're old and wise

Do as they tell you to

Don't want the Devil to

Come out and put your eyes

Maybe I'm mistaken expecting you to fight

Or maybe I'm just crazy, I don't know wrong from right

But while I am still living, I've just got this to say

It's always up to you if you want to be that

Want to see that, want to see that way

You're coming along

2011-09-02T20:08:00.000+01:00

Welcome back to school!

Holidays are over. A new school year is about to begin.

New teachers, new friends, new subjects, new projects,...

Are you prepared?

Summer Holiday ( Cliff Richard )

2011-07-02T15:01:00.000+01:00

Sir Cliff Richard, (born Harry Rodger Webb; 14 October 1940) is a British pop singer, musician, performer, actor, and philanthropist, who has sold 280 million records worldwide.

After a long school year, the deserved rest. Have fun!

Europe League: FC Porto wins historic victory

2011-05-18T22:30:00.001+01:00

Two Portuguese teams were in the final of the Europe League. I'm very proud!

FC Porto beat fellow Portuguese club SC Braga in the final of the Europe League in Dublin tonight by 1 goal to 0. This is FC Porto's second victory in the competition and another excellent period in the history of the club, managed by President Jorge Nuno Pinto da Costa since 1982, being his fifty-first title.

Climate changes

2011-04-27T22:19:00.005+01:00

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) is a scientific intergovernmental body tasked with reviewing the most recent scientific, technical and socio-economic information produced worldwide relevant to the understanding of climate change. It provides the world with a clear scientific view on the current state of climate change and its potential environmental and socio-economic consequences, notably the risk of climate change caused by human activity.

Charlie Chaplin

2011-04-15T14:22:00.002+01:00

Simplicity is a difficult thing to achieve

Easter

2011-04-12T14:06:00.002+01:00

Egg cartoon crafts

2011-03-29T19:21:00.003+01:00

Let your imagination fly ....

International Women's Day ( 8th March )

2011-03-07T18:51:00.007Z

A woman is always ready to care, love and sacrifice for the other. She plays the character of a mother, daughter, wife, friend, nurturer, guide and partner. Emotional and vulnerable, she displays a wonderful range of emotions from being patient to being extremely courageous in times of crisis.

This video is my tribute to all WOMEN.

2011-03-06T20:39:00.000Z

Women in history who changed the world

Lovely!

2011-03-01T18:45:00.003Z

Three white tiger cubs , one of the rarest and most admired in nature, were born at the Lisbon Zoo. They are two females and one male children of one couple in the existing park. Contrary to what some people think, the white tigers are not albino, nor a subspecies of tiger. The hair colour is due to a recessive gene, when both parents are carriers of the gene responsible for light-colored coat. Their coloring is more intense in winter, as an adaptation to cold, bringing out blue eyes, pink nose and creamy white with brown lists.

The gestation period of the WhiteTigers is 102 to 112 days. Calves nurse for three to six months and accompany the mother for two to three years, learning the techniques of hunting for its future survival as adults lonely. Because of its white coat that does not give the appropriate camouflage for their survival in the wild, white tigers, were for centuries the target of poaching that led to its extinction in the wild.

St. Valentine

2011-02-12T19:08:00.010Z

The popular festival of love and romances traces its origin to ancient Roman festival and has not been created by card companies as some people believe it to be. There are various legends associated with the festival along with the belief that birds began to mate from this day. Popularity of the Valentine's Day festival stems from the combined effects of all these legends, beliefs and of course the wish to glorify the unparalleled feeling of love.

Have a sweet St. Valentine's Day!

Smile!

2011-02-04T12:15:00.005Z

Smiling is a great way to make yourself stand out while helping your body to function better.

Smile to improve your health, your stress level, and your attractiveness.

Reasons to Smile

1. Smiling changes our mood
2. Smiling is contagious
3. Smiling relives stress
4. Smiling lowers your blood pressure
5. Smiling lifts the face and makes you feel younger

( adapted from: About. com ; Longetivity)

The Future of Work

2011-01-23T19:27:00.007Z

This video shows how technology is changing the way people work together.

Watch the video

2010-12-18T22:30:00.005Z

On 17th December my English class ( 9th B) made a tribute to Jonh Lennon. Like the lyrics says, we wish a better world, full of peace, solidariety and love.

I thank the dedication and enthusiasm of my students.

2010-12-17T17:05:00.007Z

I wish all the students, teachers and staff a happy 2011.

I wish health ,peace, fraternity, and solidariety for the New Year.

Christmas message: http://www.jacquielawson.com/preview.asp?cont=1&hdn=0&pv=3274601&path=83563

2010-11-30T22:14:00.004Z

"Chaga and the Chocolate Factory" is the name of the short story we have studied in the English class, 9th grade.It describes the inhuman conditions young children have to face in the cocoa plantations in the Ivory Coast, West Africa. Children are forced to work long hours, they are beaten and at night they are put in shacks.

The main character of the story is Chaga, a poor ten year old boy , who lives in Mali, Africa, with his six brothers and sisters. On day the Bicycle Man appeared and promised him a new life. He could work in the chocolate factory and earn enough money to buy a bicycle and take care of his family. But Chaga’s dreams and hopes became a nightmare. He was forced to work long hours, carrying heavy bags of cocoa beans, along the plantation.

Work done by Eduarda and Carla, 9th E

Chocolate and Child Labour

2010-11-20T22:00:00.000Z

World Music Day: 1st October

2010-10-03T00:39:00.003+01:00

What would life be without music? The world would be a very quiet place. Music is in many ways the fabric of ourlives and the definition of society. Music is the perfect art and our lives would be that much less complete without it.

Super Tramp ( School )

2010-09-07T20:56:00.002+01:00

I can see you in the morning when you go to school
Don't forget your books, you know you've got to learn the golden rule,
The teacher tells you stop your playin' get on with your work
And be like Johnnie - "too-good", don't you know he never shirks
- he's coming along!

After school is over you're playing in the park
Don't be out too late, don't let it get too dark
They tell you not to hang around and learn what life's about
And grow up just like them - won't let you work it out
- and you're full of doubt

Don't do this and don't do that
What are they trying to do? Make a good boy of you
Do they know where it's at?
Don't criticize, they're old and wise
Do as they tell you to
Don't want the devil to
Come and put out your eyes

Maybe I'm mistaken expecting you to fight
Or maybe I'm just crazy, I don't know wrong from right
But while I am still living, I've just got this to say
It's always up to you if you want to be that
want to see that
want to see it that way
- you're coming along!

Summer Cartoons

2010-08-06T00:11:00.003+01:00

Reader's Digest

Summer Holiday

2010-07-18T00:15:00.003+01:00

Relax, have fun and we will meet again at school in September

.

Plug in baby ( Muse )

2010-07-17T00:47:00.001+01:00

World football championship 2010

2010-06-08T23:49:00.001+01:00

World no tobacco day ( 31st May )

2010-05-31T23:29:00.007+01:00

Tobacco use and smoking are very dangerous addictions which commonly cause a wide variety of diseases, cancer and death.
Tobacco use leads most commonly to diseases affecting the heart and lungs, with smoking being a major risk factor for heart attacks, strokes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and cancer (particularly lung cancer, cancers of the larynx and mouth, and pancreatic cancer).

More than 5 million children living today will die prematurely because of a decision they will make as adolescents---the decision to use tobacco and smoke cigarettes.

Now, it's up to you!
If you want to live longer. Don't smoke!

International Day of the Book ( 23rd April )

2010-04-29T20:20:00.004+01:00

This date was organized by UNESCO to promote reading, publishing and copyright. The Day was first celebrated in 1995.

Teachers have a very important role. We know how difficult it is to get students to read their textbooks. Getting them to read books just for the pleasure of reading is harder, since many kids aren't interested in reading these days.
When there was no televisions or computers, reading was a primary leisure activity.

Children who read a lot are more creative and get higher marks at school.

Funny video

2010-04-05T20:22:00.004+01:00

Easter

2010-03-31T20:28:00.006+01:00

Easter is the most important annual religious feast in the Christian liturgical year..According to Christian scripture, Jesus was resurrected from the dead on the third day after his crucifixion. Some Christians celebrate this resurrection on Easter Day or Easter Sunday. Easter marks the end of Lent, a season of fasting, prayer, and penance. Easter is a moveable feast, meaning it is not fixed in relation to the civil calendar.
Relatively newer elements such as the Easter Bunny and Easter egg hunts have become part of the holiday's modern celebrations, and those aspects are often celebrated by many Christians and non-Christians.

International Women's Day -8th March

2010-03-04T17:35:00.003Z

March 8th marks the annual celebration of International Women’s Day. Celebrated around the world, IWD is a time to reflect on the advances toward equity made by women everywhere and to look ahead to the challenges that remain.

click here to explore a slideshow

(The International Development Research Centre )

It explores the unique contributions women make, the advancements they have made, and the struggles they continue to face.

Safer Internet Day - 9th February 2010

2010-02-10T09:00:00.001Z

European Safer Internet Day (SID) is organised by Insafe and is supported by countries throughout Europe. SID is an annual event to promote safer and more responsible use of online

technology.

Smart surfing

Remain as anonymous as possible. That means keeping all private information private. Here are some examples of private information that you should never give out on the Internet:

»»full name
»»home address
»»phone number
»»Social Security number
»»passwords
»» names of family members
»»credit card numbers

Meeting online friends face to face carries more risks than other types of friendships because it's so easy for people to pretend to be something they're not when you can't see them or talk in person.

If you ever get involved in a chat room conversation that makes you feel uncomfortable or in danger for any reason, exit and tell a parent or other adult right away.

Be careful !

Isilda Miranda, a great voice!

2010-02-08T16:24:00.003Z

This Portuguese teenager has a great voice. She is now in the 10th grade, and I had the pleasure to be her English teacher for three years (7th, 8th and 9th grade). Her voice is marvellous and whenever she sang in our school activities we were enchanted.

I wish her a lot of success!

Inês Pereira ( 13 ) Guitar Contest: "Prémios Honoríficos David Russel", 23 January 2010

2010-02-08T16:03:00.003Z

I have the honour to be the English teacher of this teenager, Inês Pereira. She is a very good student, an excellent person and likes music a lot. She has already performed in some of our school activities and I have the pleasure to share her talent with you.

Congratulations, Inês!

Help Haiti!

2010-01-22T15:59:00.005Z

In coordination of other UN agencies present on the ground, Unicef is providing supplies to allow access to adequate sanitation, safe water and basic heath care.

Children are always the most vulnerable population in any natural disaster and Unicef is there for them before, during and after every emergency situation.

Many people around the world have contributed, but more funds are urgently needed.

Don't forget to help these suffering people!

International Year of Biodiversity

2010-01-10T16:14:00.009Z

The United Nations declared 2010 the International Year of Biodiversity (IYB).

We are an integral part of our nature; our fate is linked with biodiversity; the huge variety of animals or plants; the place they live and their surrounding environments, all over the world.

Wach this video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7oldXRuDe_U

Our planet is in danger ! We must act NOW !

2010-01-09T18:36:00.000Z

Mother Nature is essential to mankind.
It is our primary resource for all our fundamental needs such as feeding or looking after ourselves, finding a habitat and having fun. Yet today, the Earth is sending us signals to which we must pay attention: natural resources are depleting, animal and plant species are disappearing, the polar zones are melting, ecological catastrophes are in increasing numbers, the gap between rich and poor is growing.
It is urgent to act now, as our Planet is not doing well.

http://www.jaimemaplanete.name/en/presentation.php

2009-12-18T23:42:00.001Z

Christmas Message

2009-12-15T17:39:00.007Z

I wish all my students, teachers, their families and everyone around the world, health and love.

Merry Christmas and a New Year full of Hope and Peace.

click and feel the spirit of Christmas

Merry Christmas

2009-12-14T17:29:00.004Z

Song lyrics | All I Want For Christmas Is You lyrics

The International Year of Astronomy (IYA2009)

2009-11-22T20:14:00.017Z

The International Year of Astronomy (IYA2009) is a year-long celebration of astronomy, taking place in 2009 to coincide with the 400th anniversary of the first recorded astronomical observations with a telescope by Galileo Galilei and the publication of Johannes Kepler's Astronomia nova in the 17th century.

Funny Picture

2009-11-13T15:25:00.010Z

2009-10-29T21:01:00.001Z

Asterix: 50 YEARS OLD and he still has all his teeth!

2009-10-21T15:56:00.007+01:00

As everyone knows, heroes never get old. But that does not mean that they don't want to have all their friends and family wish them a happy birthday!
And when the heroes are Asterix and Obelix (born the same day as we learn in the Asterix and the Class Act album), everybody and their brother wants to be invited to the banquet.

As part of the celebrations for Asterix's fiftieth birthday (born on 29 October 1959 in the pages of the first issue of the weekly magazine Pilote), Albert Uderzo has come up with an exceptional gift in tribute to his heroes and their millions of readers from around the world!

A date has been set for all fans: on 22 October 2009, a new album of Asterix short stories will be available throughout the world with 56 pages of brand-new, never-before-published cartoons!

http://www.asterix.com/birthday/

English is Fun!

2009-10-16T15:14:00.001+01:00

Funny English mistakes from around the World

by InnocentEnglish.com

click : http://www.innocentenglish.com/for-kids/quizintroduction.html

World Food Day- 16th October

2009-10-15T22:03:00.005+01:00

World Food Day was proclaimed in 1979 by the Conference of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). It marks the date of the founding of FAO in 1945. The aim of the Day is to call public awareness of the world food problem and strengthen solidarity in the struggle against hunger, malnutrition and poverty. In 1980, the General Assembly endorsed observance of the Day in consideration of the fact that "food is a requisite for human survival and well-being and a fundamental human necessity"

At a time when the global economic crisis dominates the news, the world needs to be reminded that not everyone works in offices and factories.

With an estimated increase of 105 million hungry people in 2009, there are now 1.02 billion malnourished people in the world, meaning that almost one sixth of all humanity is suffering from hunger.

On the occasion of World Food Week and World Food Day 2009, let us reflect on those numbers and the human suffering behind them.

Relax!

2009-10-09T15:51:00.006+01:00

Obama, the Nobel Prize 2009

2009-10-09T15:11:00.003+01:00

The US president Barack Obama has won the Nobel Peace Prize 2009 for his work in giving the world citizens a hope for the better future. According to the Nobel Prize Committee, he has won for its humanitarian efforts in improving the quality of life for all the citizens of the world. He is giving a good signal to the world that the educational institutions and the international relations need to be strengthened.

Congratulations, Mr President!

Ardi - The Human's oldest relative

2009-10-05T22:30:00.001+01:00

She lived at the dawn of a new era, when chimps and people began walking (or climbing) along their own evolutionary trails. This is Ardi - the oldest member of the human family tree we've found so far.

Short, hairy and with long arms, she roamed the forests of Africa 4.4million years ago.

Her discovery, reported in detail for the first time today, sheds light on a crucial period when we were just leaving the trees. Some scientists said she could provide evidence that our ancestors first started walking upright in the pursuit of sex.

Watch this video and learn more about this fantastic discovery!

2009-10-01T14:52:00.005+01:00

This Cat Caught a Mouse!

Music

2009-09-28T18:39:00.005+01:00

The word ‘music’ means a series of sounds made from various instruments or voices in a way that sounds pleasant and exciting. Music plays and continues to play an important role in our daily lives and is a form of communication. People of different times and cultures have contributed significantly towards the development, promotion and preservation of the spirit of music throughout the world.

What's your favourite type of music?

It's school time again!

2009-09-03T19:38:00.014+01:00

It's school time again! You're probably feeling excited and maybe a little sad that summer is over. But don't worry you are going to meet new friends, new teachers and learn new a lot of new topics.

I wish all the students and teachers a good school year!

Apolo 11: 40 years later

2009-07-20T20:45:00.000+01:00

Forty years ago today Apollo 11 blasted off to the moon. You can see a good deal of video, pictures and interviews on NASA's website.

July 20, 1969 is a date that will always live in the minds and dreams of people all over the Earth. That was the day two men became the first ever to step foot on the surface of the moon. July 2009 marks the 40th anniversary of that historic mission.

Neil Armstrong, Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin and Michael Collins flew Apollo 11 to the moon. Armstrong and Aldrin set foot on the moon while Collins orbited the moon in the spacecraft's command module.

Ronaldo in Madrid

2009-07-07T20:38:00.000+01:00

Ronaldo has signed a six year deal to play with top European football club Real Madrid. He used to play for Manchester United and he will be paid 131 million dollars to play with other football stars such as Kaka.

The Santiago Bernabau is the home of the Real Madrid team. It is one of the cities major attractions. The stadium can host up to 75,000 people, and besides the domestic league games, other national games have been played. It has also hosted the 1982 World Cup finals when the event was held in Spain.

A Tribute to : Michael Jackson

2009-06-25T22:37:00.002+01:00

Michael Jackson, one of the biggest pop icons in modern history, has passed away at the age of 50. Although Jackson’s music career hit its peak in the 80’s, his influence on music, and especially music videos, has persisted throughout.

Saint Jonh's Day- "São João"

2009-06-20T23:00:00.003+01:00

The typical Festivities of Porto take place in June and reach the highest point on the night of the 23^rd to the 24^th(Saint John’s Day – “São João” in Portuguese). The festivity of Saint John is one of the most important cultural expressions of the Portuguese people. On the 23^rdJune, the city “descends upon the Baixa (downtown) and its River” until dawn. The main streets are dotted by small stands selling basils and there is a Saint John cascade every where and there to celebrate the tradition that remains since the 19^th century. Everyone is out in the streets, taking part in lively “rusgas”, striking each other with small and big plastic hammers or making other people smell the famous “alho porro” (leek). Jumping the bonfire, tasting the roasted sardines and the potato and cabbage broth is also part of the festivity. The hot-air balloons, and the fireworks at midnight are the highest point of the festivities of Saint John. This popular festivity is also celebrated in Braga, my hometown.

Portugal Day- 10th June

2009-06-08T19:01:00.000+01:00

Portugal Day (Portuguese: Dia de Portugal), officially Dia de Camões, de Portugal e das Comunidades Portuguesas ("Day of Camões, Portugal, and the Portuguese Communities"), marks the date of Luís de Camões' death in June 10, 1580 and is Portugal's National Day. Camões wrote the Lusiads, Portugal's national epic poem celebrating Portuguese history and achievements. Although it is only officially celebrated in Portugal, Portuguese citizens and also Portuguese immigrants throughout the world celebrate this holiday.
The poem is mainly about the 16th century Portuguese explorations, which brought fame and fortune to Portugal. Camões' poem, considered one of the finest and most important works in Portuguese literature, became a symbol for the greatness of the Portuguese nation. Camões was an adventurer, lost one eye fighting in Ceuta, wrote the Portuguese epic poem Os Lusíadas while travelling, and survived a shipwreck in Cochinchina (present-day Vietnam). According to popular lore, Camões saved his epic poem by swimming with one arm while keeping the other arm above water. Camões became a national symbol. Yet, in the year of his death, Portugal lost its independence to Spain and was ruled by three generations of Spanish kings. Sixty years later, in December 1, 1640, the country regained its independence. Since then, because Camões' date of birth is not known, the date of his death is celebrated as Portugal's national day.

Wikipedia

International Children's Day

2009-05-28T22:54:00.003+01:00

Children's Day is an event celebrated on various days in many places around the world. International Children's Day is celebrated on June 1. On Children’s Day tribute is payed to all children in the world. Children are loved by one and all. They win over our hearts with their angelic eyes and innocent smiles. They make us forget the bad moments and give us courage to face difficult days.

Let's protect our children and give them a happy life. They are our future!

International Museum Day- 18th May

2009-05-15T23:55:00.001+01:00

International Museum Day has been celebrated all over the world since 1977. Each year, a theme is decided on by the Advisory Committee. The event provides the opportunity for museum professionals to meet the public and alert them to the challenges that museums face if they are to be - as in the ICOM definition of museums - "an institution in the service of society and of its development". The chosen topic is also discussed in ICOM News, a review of the related activities is produced and made available to members of ICOM.

It has been recommended that this celebration be held each year on 18 May (Given that each country has its own specific traditions and conditions, we recommend that members organise their events around 18 May), in the spirit of the motto:
« Museums are an important means of cultural exchange, enrichment of cultures and development of mutual understanding, co-operation and peace among peoples »

Europe Day- 9th May

2009-05-07T15:36:00.002+01:00

On the 9th of May 1950, Robert Schuman presented his proposal on the creation of an organised Europe, indispensable to the maintenance of peaceful relations.

This proposal, known as the "Schuman declaration", is considered to be the beginning of the creation of what is now the European Union.

Today, the 9th of May has become a European symbol (Europe Day) which, along with the flag, the anthem, the motto and the single currency (the euro), identifies the political entity of the European Union. Europe Day is the occasion for activities and festivities that bring Europe closer to its citizens and peoples of the Union closer to one another.

Every country which democratically chooses to accede to the European Union endorses its fundamental values of peace and solidarity.

These values find expression through economic and social development embracing environmental and regional dimensions which are the guarantees of a decent standard of living for all citizens.

( click here ) European Quizzes

2009-04-30T19:18:00.001+01:00

Earth Day - April 22

2009-04-22T22:12:00.013+01:00

Earth Day is celebrated on April 22. Although the idea for Earth Day came about in the early 1960s, the first official Earth Day wasn’t held until 1970.

The purpose was to draw attention to environmental issues :

air and water pollution;
dumping of toxic chemicals;
destruction of natural habitat

Earth day Quiz

World Book Day - April 23

2009-04-22T16:43:00.002+01:00

This international event organised by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) got its start in Spain in 1923, where the commemoration of Miguel de Cervantes' death by local booksellers combined with the celebration of St. George's Day to create a new traditional exchange of flowers and... books." In 1995, UNESCO decided that the World Book would be celebrated on this date because of the Catalonian festival and because the date is also the anniversary of the birth and death of William Shakespeare.

Poem

I like books

I really do.

Books with stories
And pictures, too.

Books of birds
And things that grow.
Books of people
We should know.

Books of animals
And places, too.
I like books
I really do!

Author Unknown

Enjoy the pleasure of reading. Read a book!

World Voice Day

2009-04-14T22:51:00.004+01:00

On April 16 otolaryngologists throughout the world celebrate "World Voice Day." This international celebration of the human voice was established to help raise public and professional awareness about voice disorders Voice disorders are medical conditions affecting the production of speech.

We use our voices not only to communicate ideas and emotions, but also to establish our credibility. The voice is an exceedingly fragile and sensitive instrument. It can be damaged by voice abuse or misuse, tobacco use, laryngopharyngeal reflux, respiratory dysfunction, neurologic dysfunction, and many other causes.

World Voice Day represents one small step toward increasing awareness of vocal health among members of the general public and highlighting advances in voice diagnosis and treatment within the international otolaryngology community.

Some Job Interview Tips

2009-04-08T16:30:00.003+01:00

First Job

2009-04-07T00:41:00.006+01:00

Whether you're a teen or older and looking for your first job, you'll need to prepare for a job search. Before you start looking for your first job, you will need to gather some information together including details and dates of your educational background, as well as your skills, and any volunteer or informal work experience you have.

Even if you haven't had a "real" job that pays you a paycheck, volunteering, babysitting, delivering papers, and similar types of experience count as work when you're writing a resume or completing a job application.

Depending on your age, there may be requirements about what jobs you can, and cannot do. For example, if you're 14 or 15 you can only work 3 hours day and a maximum of 18 hours a week.

Make a list of where you went to school, dates of attendence, and if you have participated in sports or other after-school activities, list them too. List any work you have done, organizations you belong to (like the Girl Scouts ) and any volunteer organizations you have helped. You need the information to complete job applications and to write a resume.

ask.com Job Searching

2009-04-06T15:30:00.002+01:00

Glitter Graphics - GlitterLive.com

World Theatre Day

2009-03-23T23:45:00.001Z

All over the world artists will spend part of their day honouring the larger community of the art form they share in. Designated "World Theatre Day" by the International Theatre Institute, the event is described as "an opportunity to celebrate together an art form and a way of life that binds us, regardless of borders, language or political differences. It's a day of communion".

Theatre is a branch of the performing arts concerned with acting out stories in front of an audience using combinations of speech, gesture, music, dance, sound and spectacle — indeed any one or more elements of the other performing arts. ...

Spring 21st March

2009-03-19T15:40:00.004Z

World Poetry Day is on March 21, and was declared by UNESCO (the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) in 1999. The purpose of the day is to promote the reading, writing, publishing and teaching of poetry throughout the world

Poetry is a form of dialogue among cultures. Through it we can express our feelings.

To celebrate this date bring your favourite poem to the English class.

This date is also associated with Spring. To celebrate this season enjoy this lovely poem.

A Prayer in Spring

by Robert Frost

Oh, give us pleasure in the flowers today;
And give us not to think so far away
As the uncertain harvest; keep us here
All simply in the springing of the year.

Oh, give us pleasure in the orchard white,
Like nothing else by day, like ghosts by night;
And make us happy in the happy bees,
The swarm dilating round the perfect trees.

And make us happy in the darting bird
That suddenly above the bees is heard,
The meteor that thrusts with needle bill,
And off a blossom in mid-air stands still.

For this is love and nothing else is love,
The which it is reserved for God above
To sanctify to what far ends He will,
But which it only needs that we fulfill.

St. Patrick's Day - 17 th March

2009-03-15T17:19:00.001Z

The Irish tradtional religious feast day of Saint Patrick takes place each year on March 17.

Who was Saint Patrick?

St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, is one of Christianity's most widely known figures. But for all his celebrity, his life remains somewhat of a mystery. Many of the stories traditionally associated with St. Patrick, including the famous account of his banishing all the snakes from Ireland, are false, the products of hundreds of years of exaggerated storytelling.

It is known that St. Patrick was born in Britain to wealthy parents near the end of the fourth century. He is believed to have died on March 17, around 460 A.D.

At the age of sixteen, Patrick was taken prisoner by a group of Irish raiders who were attacking his family's estate. They transported him to Ireland where he spent six years in captivity. During this time, he worked as a shepherd, outdoors and away from people. Lonely and afraid, he turned to his religion for solace, becoming a devout Christian. (It is also believed that Patrick first began to dream of converting the Irish people to Christianity during his captivity.)

And the Oscar goes to ...... ‘Slumdog Millionaire’

2009-02-25T22:11:00.007Z

Slumdog ended up with eight Oscars in all, including Best Picture and Best Director for Danny Boyle. In the acting categories, Kate Winslet won Best Actress for The Reader, her first win after six nominations, while Sean Penn's performance in Milk netted him his second Best Actor statue. As expected, Heath Ledger was honored posthumously as Best Supporting Actor for his iconic role as the Joker in The Dark Knight; Penelope Cruz won her first Oscar as Best Supporting Actress for Vicky Cristina Barcelona, her second nomination.
The night of triumph sealed the Mumbai-set British film’s unlikely dominance of Hollywood’s glittering award season.

Origins of Carnival

2009-02-18T20:28:00.005Z

The origins of Carnival are largely unknown, but it seems to have been part of a pagan celebration of the new year or the start of spring in Ancient Italy, marked by the mixing of social classes in a large outdoor festival. At the start of the Christian Age, celebration was restricted to before Lent as a kind of "flesh abuse," a time to purge oneself of such Pagan practice prior to the remembrance of Christ's death.

Carnival was introduced to Portugal, the mother country of Brazil, in the 15^th and 16^th centuries. It took on a violent turn with the advent of the "Entrudo," or introduction to Lent. During the Entrudo, entertaining and often cruel practical jokes were played. It was this kind of Carnaval that first arrived in Brazil. The Entrudo did not last long as it was suppressed by the police.

In the mid-19^th century, Carnival split into two parts: the Ballroom Carnival (attended mostly by the rich) and the Street Carnival. Mask Balls in the São João Theater continued weekly throughout the year, keeping up the spirit of Carnaval. To make Carnaval more affordable, it was moved into the streets, and sub-deputies were authorized to freely distribute masks to anyone who wanted to join. This format was adopted by tradespeople as it meant more profit.

Carnival had finally come into its own, no longer overshadowed by the Entrudo. Mask balls were organized a year in advance, families and groups competed to decided who was the most elegant and refined as class lines were allowed to blur in a fun party atmosphere.

http://student.bard.edu/clubs/laso/carnaval.htm

Saint Valentine

2009-02-12T16:06:00.011Z

The History of Saint Valentine

2009-02-12T16:06:00.010Z

Every February, candy, flowers, and gifts are exchanged between loved ones, all in the name of St. Valentine.

But who is this mysterious saint and why do we celebrate this holiday? The history of Valentine's Day — and its patron saint — is shrouded in mystery. But we do know that February has long been a month of romance. St. Valentine's Day, as we know it today, contains vestiges of both Christian and ancient Roman tradition. So, who was Saint Valentine and how did he become associated with this ancient rite? Today, the Catholic Church recognizes at least three different saints named Valentine or Valentinus, all of whom were martyred.

One legend contends that Valentine was a priest who served during the third century in Rome. When Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers than those with wives and families, he outlawed marriage for young men — his crop of potential soldiers. Valentine, realizing the injustice of the decree, defied Claudius and continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secret. When Valentine's actions were discovered, Claudius ordered that he be put to death. Other stories suggest that Valentine may have been killed for attempting to help Christians escape harsh Roman prisons where they were often beaten and tortured.

Love quotes

"Spread love everywhere you go: first of all in your own home.
Give love to your children, to a wife or husband, to a next-door neighbor." ( Mother Teresa )

"A kiss is something you cannot give without taking and cannot take without giving."

(Anonymous )

"Love is composed of a single soul inhabiting two bodies." (Aristotle)

"Love is the greatest refreshment in life." ( Picasso )

'Viva La Vida' is Grammy Song of the Year

2009-02-09T19:00:00.002Z

The Grammy Awards

(originally called the Gramophone Awards)—or Grammys—are presented annually by the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences of the United States for outstanding achievements in the music industry. The awards ceremony features performances by prominent artists, and some of the awards of more popular interest are presented in a widely-viewed televised ceremony.
The award ceremony is generally held in February. This year,the 51st Grammy Awards ceremony was held on February 8, 2009, and was held at Los Angeles' Staples Center for the sixth consecutive year.

The band Coldplay won the priorizes for song and rock album of the year.

Barack Obama's Inauguration Is One for the History Books

2009-01-20T10:00:00.002Z

"A New Birth of Freedom" was the theme for Barack Obama's inauguration today—a reference to one of Abraham Lincoln's most memorable lines from the Gettysburg Address. It was part of Obama's sustained effort to link himself with the memory of one of America's greatest leaders and to give Americans reassurance that today, as in Lincoln's time, the country would find its way through any crisis.
Obama, the first African-American president, has often emphasized his bonds with Lincoln, who waged war to preserve the Union and end slavery. Obama, the son of a black man from Kenya and a white woman from Kansas, was raised amid the cultural diversity of Hawaii and Indonesia, and he went out of his way to involve many different kinds of people in his inauguration. Nearly every major segment of the population seemed represented in some way—whites and blacks, men and women, straights and gays, the old, the young, the middle-aged.
Thomas Jefferson was the first president to be inaugurated in Washington, D.C., which became the capital in 1801. After his second inauguration, Jefferson rode on horseback from the Capitol to the president's house surrounded by mechanics from the Navy Yard—the forerunner of the inaugural parade.

One year in 40 seconds

2009-01-02T20:22:00.004Z

You are going to watch images from the same spot through one year. You will feel the sensation of how days pass quicly.

So, be hapy and enjoy life!

New Year Wishes

2008-12-30T14:24:00.008Z

I wish you Health...

So you may enjoy each day in comfort.

I wish you the Love of friends and family...

And Peace within your heart.

I wish you the Beauty of nature...

That you may enjoy the work of God.

I wish you Wisdom to choose priorities...

For those things that really matter in life.

I wish you Generousity so you may share...

All good things that come to you.

I wish you Happiness and Joy...

And Blessings for the New Year.

I wish you the best of everything...

That you so well deserve.

~ Author Unknown to me ~

I wish all the students, teachers and my friends a

"Happy New Year!

Click here

The oldest fim director in the World: Manoel de Oliveira

2008-12-11T22:52:00.009Z

Manoel de Oliveira was born in Oporto, Portugal, on December 11 (but he was only registry in the next day) of 1908, to a family of wealthy industrialists. Since his early days he desired to become an actor, later he decided that it would be best to become film maker. He made some distinctive representation as actor like in the second Portuguese sound film, A Canção de Lisboa (1933).

His first film as a director was made in 1942, Aniki-Bóbó, and it was about a poor boy who lived in Oporto streets.

He is still working and he is the Portuguese film director with more awards. Since 2001, he is the oldest director in the world who is still active, and remains one of the most influential film makers in Europe. "Cristóvão Colombo - O Enigma" (Christopher Columbus - The enigma) is the last film he directed so far and as strange as you can imagine he still have two projects in mind!

Today with 100 years, it's really amazing his capacity of working and facing life with such a young spirit!

Congratulations!

Human rights declaration 60 years old

2008-12-10T23:32:00.018Z

The 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights will be marked globally on Wednesday 10 December, International Human Rights Day.

What are human rights?

Human rights are rights inherent to all human beings, whatever our nationality, place of residence, sex, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, language, or any other status. We are all equally entitled to our human rights without discrimination. These rights are all interrelated, interdependent and indivisible.

Universal human rights are often expressed and guaranteed by law, in the forms of treaties, customary international law , general principles and other sources of international law. International human rights law lays down obligations of Governments to act in certain ways or to refrain from certain acts, in order to promote and protect human rights and fundamental freedoms of individuals or groups.

Link: The Universal Declaration of Human Rights

Self-esteem

2008-12-04T16:34:00.007Z

What is self-esteem?

The term self-esteem comes from a Greek word meaning "reverence for self." The "self" part of self-esteem pertains to the values, beliefs and attitudes that we hold about ourselves. The "esteem" part of self-esteem describes the value and worth that one gives oneself. Simplistically self-esteem is the acceptance of ourselves for who and what we are at any given time in our lives.

Be yourself!

International Day of Disabled People_ 3rd December

2008-12-03T22:49:00.005Z

What is the International Day of Disabled People about?

On the 3rd December 1982, the UN General Assembly decided on the World Programme of Action for Disabled People. The United Nations committed itself and its members to promote the full participation of disabled people in social life and development as well as prevention and rehabilitation measures.

Disabled people are not yet fully considered within international development issues. They are still excluded from society in many countries of the world. Even where effective disability legislation is in place, the implementation lacks ideas and is hindered by negative attitudes towards disabled people.

Facts and figures

The World Health Organization estimates that there are 600 million disabled people worldwide, about 10% of the world population. It is also estimated that about 80% of all disabled people worldwide live in developing countries.

More and more, disability is seen as a social issue which is not only based on medical reasons. The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) defines a disabled person as someone who has a physical or mental impairment that has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on his or her ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities. Therefore the reasons for disability are always complex and can only be understood within the context of societies and cultures.

What does inclusion mean?

Inclusion is applied to a variety of fields such as education, employment, society in general or international development. Inclusion means the acceptance of all people and is not limited to disabled people but also includes other marginalized groups such as immigrants, women, poor people or people with HIV/AIDS.
In the disability field the concept is best known through inclusive education or inclusive development, promoting the consideration of disabled people in all aspects of school or international development.

"Disabled People deserve the same rights"

Learning English

2008-11-24T16:12:00.015Z

Some tips about how to learn the English language.

Don't read subtitles in your language while you watch T.V.

Learn grammar and vocabulary using visual, auditory and spoken methods.

Read English magazines.

Children might enjoy learning in a kitchen while drinking milk after school.

Learn English by reading, listening, studying, and asking questions; practice what you learn by speaking and writing.

Dictation is an excellent way to improve your listening and spelling skills. Have a friend read a few paragraphs from a book or a newspaper. Write down what you think you hear. Compare what you have written with the actual text.

Listen, repeat and practise your English pronunciation!

World No-Tobacco Day

2008-11-16T19:27:00.010Z

No-Tobacco Day is celebrated tomorrow,17th November, in Portugal.

The advertising agency DDB Portugal have sponsored a series of DDB alerts, posters warning about the effects of smoking on length of life and enjoyment of life. The phrase used in each poster translated into English: “It’s not just the life you lose, but what you lose in life”. Tobacco is the third cause death in Portugal. It’s a contagious habit.

The Member States of the World Health Organization created World No Tobacco Day in 1987 to draw global attention to the tobacco epidemic and the preventable death and disease it causes.
The purpose of World No Tobacco Day is to encourage countries and governments to work towards strict regulation of tobacco products. It's important to raise awareness about the existence of the wide variety of deadly tobacco products. Regulation should also help people get accurate information about tobacco products – traditional, new, and future.

Although World No Tobacco Day is only one day of the year, the efforts to spread the message about the dangers of tobacco use need to continue throughout the year.

The tobacco industry catches You : learn more about its advertising, promotion and sponsorship tactics and how they are a threat to you.

Tobacco-Free Youth interactive Website click here.

Obama elected USA President

2008-11-06T16:22:00.016Z

In 2004, a young and largely unknown politician delivered the keynote address at the Democratic National Convention. It was a stellar performance, and big things were predicted from the Illinois state senator, Barack Obama. Obama is the first African American to be elected President of the United States of America. He is the 44th President of the USA.

Obama's victory speech:

Breast Cancer Prevention

2008-10-30T16:22:00.007Z

Breast cancer is a cancer that starts in the cells of the breast in women and men. Worldwide, breast cancer is the second most common type of cancer after lung cancer (10.4% of all cancer incidence, both sexes counted) and the fifth most common cause of cancer death.In 2005, breast cancer caused 502,000 deaths worldwide (7% of cancer deaths; almost 1% of all deaths). Because the breast is composed of identical tissues in males and females, breast cancer also occurs in males. Incidences of breast cancer in men are approximately 100 times less common than in women, but men with breast cancer are considered to have the same statistical survival rates as women.

In the month of October, breast cancer is recognized by survivors, family and friends of survivors and/or victims of the disease. A pink ribbon is worn to recognize the struggle that sufferers face when battling the cancer.

Pink for October is an initiative started by Matthew Oliphant, which asks that any sites willing to help make people aware of breast cancer, change their template or layout to include the color pink, so that when visitors view the site, they see that the majority of the site is pink. Then after reading a short amount of information about breast cancer, or being redirected to another site, they are aware of the disease itself.

Researchers are constantly seeking new methods for the diagnosis and subsequent treatment of this virulent cancer. The success of this research has played a big part in the early detection and successful treatment of more cases of breast cancer in recent years. New treatments are constantly being sought to effectively seek out any potentially cancerous cells in a woman’s body. This reduces the number of cases of breast cancer significantly.

Thanks to this continued research, many more women are surviving breast cancer than ever before. The recovery rate has steadily been increasing. Early detection and treatment is the key to this success.

Monthly breast self-examination and routine mammography help detect breast cancer early.

There are two steps to breast self-examination: inspection and palpation.

Inspection: While standing in front of a mirror, inspect all aspect of the breasts for any changes in size, shape, contour, or symmetry. Place close attention to any skin dimpling, discoloration, or change in the nipple.
Palpation: Examination through touching may be performed while standing in the shower, or when lying flat, with a folded towel placed behind the back on the side you are examining. Palpation is performed with the fingertips of the index, middle, and ring fingers. Systematically palpate lightly and then more deeply. Carefully knead the tissue in an attempt to detect any change in consistency or a lump. There are several approaches for examining the breast.

Free MD - your interactive medical library; Wikipedia

Stand up Take Action against Poverty

2008-10-17T18:59:00.004+01:00

Today we have joined millions of people standing up worldwide for better health care and education. At half past nine all the teachers talked about Poverty and the students were motivated to write their message, in a paper with the shape of a foot. Among other songs, "Imagine" by John Lennon, could be heard, inside and outside school. It was really beautiful!
With our feet, we can walk and run. So, it's time too start running and do something to minimize the suffering of millions of people around the world. In the brake, a photo, with all the students holding their message, was taken. This was a global activity.

In the English class, I've told my students of the 9thB to write some messages.
I've chosen the best to share with you.

"Some problems are huge to be solved alone." So, Stand up and Take Action!"

Patrícia /Fábio

"The World needs to join hands with people in need"

João Ferreira/ Tiago

" I am a lucky girl since I've got food, access to education and a family."

Cipriana

" Don' t waste food and you're helping."

Maria / Gonçalo

"Please don't let the children starve! Do something!"

Joana

International Day for the Eradiation of Poverty- 17th October

2008-10-16T18:58:00.005+01:00

Poverty is considered a deprivation of human rights and people affected by it are left without a voice or other means to express their hardships. In an effort to raise awareness about their situation, the World Day to End Extreme Poverty was established on October 17, 1987. In 1992, through a resolution of the General Assembly, October 17th was recognized by the United Nations as the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. An important aspect of the day is the unification of people from all socioeconomic backgrounds to become agents for changing the structures which create poverty.

Through action, we can make change. October 17th is the beginning of global action for the eradication of poverty and the betterment of the lives of the world's citizens. Through commemoration, respect, action, and knowledge, the eradication of poverty will be realized.

Between Friday, Oct. 17 and Sunday, Oct. 19, do your part to STAND UP and TAKE ACTION. The final goal is not to beat another Guinness World Record, but to show the true impact of collective mobilisation over growing citizen's awareness and involvement

Join an event now

Healthy Eating

2008-10-16T16:49:00.008+01:00

Today, 16th October, it's the World Food Day.

Time to think about Health and Nutrition.

Are you eating healthily?

Have fun and learn about healthy habits. Click here

World Food Day_16th October

2008-10-15T22:50:00.004+01:00

World Food Day was proclaimed in 1979 by the Conference of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). It marks the date of the founding of FAO in 1945. The aim of the Day is to heighten public awareness of the world food problem and strengthen solidarity in the struggle against hunger, malnutrition and poverty. In 1980, the General Assembly endorsed observance of the Day in consideration of the fact that "food is a requisite for human survival and well-being and a fundamental human necessity"

Agriculture may have become a minor player in many industrialized economies, but it must play a starring role on the world stage if we are to bring down the curtain on hunger.
Only investment in agriculture - together with support for education and health - will turn this situation around.
Most of the world's farmers are small-scale farmers. As a group, they are the biggest investors in agriculture. They also tend to have inadequate or precarious access to food themselves. If they can make a profit with their farming, they can feed their families throughout the year and reinvest in their farms by purchasing fertilizer, better quality seed and basic equipment.

Some 850 million people go hungry every day. It is a massive number, but what it means to many is tough decisions and risky behaviours in order to survive.
World Food Day, happening Oct. 16th, offers the chance to stand with those suffering due to hunger. The theme for 2008 is “World Food Security: the Challenges of Climate Change and Bioenergy”. Food Security is about ensuring people have both the availability and access to nutritious foods. This year’s theme for World Food Day points out how food security is being compromised by both climate change and the conversion of foods to biofuel. Climate change is creating drought that can ruin crops, and the reduction of available food in a local economy increases prices of the food items that remain available.

Why laugh?

2008-10-03T19:04:00.006+01:00

A healthy, non-ridiculing and connecting laughter provides physiological, psychological and spiritual benefits you probably never realized or imagined. We are born with the gift of laughter.

So, learn to laugh, and live, all over again. You will feel better about yourself and others, better about the world around you and better about those events that take place in your life.

Why laugh ? And how will it help you ?

Here are just three reasons to laugh.... and keep laughing:

It strengthens your immune system.
It makes your cheeks sore.
It actually increases your intellectual performance