The #WATWB was created as a mission to negate the overwhelming negativity that has been present in our social media streams. For every negative news story in the world, there are plenty of positive, uplifting stories that show hope, compassion and the resiliency of everyday people who face insurmountable challenges. Our hope is to share heartwarming stories that lift the human spirit.
The last Friday of every month bloggers will share their stories led by six co-hosts, this month’s co-hosts are:
For anyone that has been following Professor Owl’s Book Corner over the past couple of years, will have seen the name of “Unstoppable Tracy” mentioned many times, she is certainly my inspiration often ~ especially when I think or feel that I cannot do something. https://www.unstoppabletracy.com
Unstoppable Tracy Schmitt BRLS, B. Ed, MBA is an engaging speaker focusing on motivational techniques who will empower and engross her every audience. Having traveled the world as a past aspiring Paralympian and Humanitarian, Tracy brings her award-winning perspective and life experiences into each of her talks. She is not only an example of inspiration to those with disabilities and learning challenges, she is an example to the rest of us. How many of us have said Oh no I couldn’t do that all the time wishing we could ~ Just think to yourself “Well Maybe” and do it.
Welcome to the November 2019 Edition of Professor Owl’s Book Corner Newsletter where in addition to supporting those with special needs and learning challenges, we are also committed to being focused on YA/New Adult reading and literacy. We will be featuring tips from a certified literacy tutor to help make your reading experience the best it can be.
We will also be encouraging young writers and artists with tips, writing exercises and will still be updating our Community News Boards with the latest news from Variety Village and The March of Dimes.
Professor Owl’s Book Corner hopes you enjoy this month’s edition! Please feel free to give us your feedback on our new issue, also send us any ideas you may have to help Professor Owl’s Book Corner be all that it can be. We look forward to hearing from you and to bring you a new, more interesting newsletter.
.
Flanders Fields.
At the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, the Armistice of World War I was signed in 1918. As such, we observe two minutes of silence to remember. It’s important to remember those who fought and died and to understand it was because of those brave soldiers in that war and other since then that made this a better world for us today.
November is National Diabetes Awareness Month
Written by Sylvia McGrath
There are about 300,000 Canadians living with type “1 diabetes” (T1D) and Canada has the sixth highest rate of type “1 diabetes” in children 14 years of age or younger in the world.
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the body mistakenly attacks the beta cells that produce insulin, a hormone enabling the body to convert blood glucose to energy. It is the most severe form of diabetes, striking at any age.
Warning signs include
• Extreme thirst,
• Frequent urination,
• Increased appetite,
• Drowsiness or lethargy,
• Sudden vision change,
• Sudden weight loss,
• A sweet breath odour is the difference between diabetes type 1 and 2 is:
Complications of T1D may include blindness, heart disease, stroke, nerve damage, and amputation. Managing T1D is challenging and demands constant vigilance to avoid complications.
In Type 1 Diabetes, the body stops producing insulin, therefore it must be given through injections or a pump. People with type one will be dependent on insulin for life.
Type 2 Diabetes the insulin is present; however, the body develops a resistance to it and is unable to use it. This type of diabetes can sometimes be controlled by medication and diet and the regular testing of glucose: See link below.
The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Canada’s – goal is to improve the lives of everyone who is affected by TID by increasing the progress on the promising opportunities for curing, better treating and preventing this disease. To learn more about the foundation, please visit the website below:-
“The Haunted High Series Book 1- The Wolf Within Me”
By Cheree Alsop (Author)
This is the First Book in an Exciting New Paranormal Series a story that is filled with great characters and paranormal creatures. The narrator does a fantastic job of bringing the story and characters to life.
When a life-threatening accident reveals to Finn that he is a werewolf; the next morning, his Father enrolled him into a secluded high school.
When he arrives there, Finn quickly realizes that the school is in fact an academy for monsters that are far more dangerous and is so full of adventure, more than he ever expected.
The Haunted High has had a perilous history with werewolves. Can Finn survive monster politics, life-threatening pranks, and teachers more likely to kill him than help him in time to answer the real question: Who is the girl haunting the cemetery and why does he sleepwalk to her grave each night.
This turned out for me to be a great read, full of adventure and a story line that was so good that once I picked up this book it was very hard for me to put it down until I finished it. I look forward to more of these stories in the series. I highly recommend this book.
This book is available from www.amazon.com, www.amazon.ca and other fine bookstores.
Writing prompts are a wonderful way to kick-start your creativity and generate ideas. There isn’t a right or wrong way respond, just be honest, be creative and use your imagination!
“It’s said that All Hallows’ Eve is one of the nights when the veil between the worlds is thin – and whether you believe in such things or not, those roaming spirits probably believe in you, or at least acknowledge your existence, considering that it used to be their own. Even the air feels different on Halloween, autumn-crisp and bright.” ~Erin Morgenstern
With Halloween around the corner, many of us partake in reading ghost and horror stories. Imagine you close the book only to find its creepy creatures, ghouls and goblins have come to life. Write about your ghoulish adventures.
Get creative, write and have fun!
Write, be creative and most of all HAVE FUN!
Writing Prompt~A picture is worth a thousand words…
Some stones are said to hold mystical powers. Write about what happens when after you pick up a random stone while on an autumn stroll and magical things begin to happen.
ATTENTION ALL YOUNG WRITERS: NANOWRIMO STARTS NOVEMBER 1ST!
Are you a young writer 17 years of age or under who has always wanted to participate in NaNoWriMo? Well, you can!!! Did you know that NaNoWriMo has a Young Writers Programme just for you.
WHAT IS NANOWRIMO?
In its 20th year, NaNoWriMo or National Novel Writing Month happens every November! It’s a fun-filled, writing-fueled, seat-of-your-pants writing event where the challenge is to write an entire novel in just 30 days. Participants begin writing November 1 and must finish by midnight, November 30. The word-count goal for the adult program is 50,000 words, but the Young Writers Program (YWP) allows young writers to set reasonable individual word-count goals.
Every year approximately 100,000 young writers participate check out their website and sign up to participate…..http://ywp.nanowrimo.org/
NaNoWriMo allows an individual to silence their inner critic, as it does tend to emphasize quantity over quality. For those writers who are often intimidated by their inner critic the urgency of the contest motivates them to push through fears, the need for perfection and keep writing. With the fast pace of NaNoWriMo, adult writers need to produce approximately 1667 words per day so there is not a lot of time left for editing or worrying. Young writers can choose a goal which is achievable to you. With school, homework and afterschool activities you can set a reasonable goal for you to reach.
NaNoWriMo hosts writing events to provide participants with an active supportive community and raises money via donations as well as sales of promotional items, which it donates approximately 50% of its net intake to reading charities.
NaNoWriMo has proven to be a popular contest and does not appear to be slowing down. The first year only 21 people participated to date the number reached 798,162 participants producing approximately 367,913 novels. NaNoWriMo initially began to instigate and inspire writers to create impromptu novels, and it has become an exceptionally successful contest. In fact, many of those NaNoWriMo novels became rough drafts which eventually became published novels. Books such as Water for Elephants, by Sara Gruen, The Night Circus, by Erin Morgenstern, Fangirl, by Rainbow Rowell, Wool, by Hugh Howey, The Darwin Elevator, by Jason M. Hough and Cinder, Scarlet, and Cress by Marissa Meyer were all born out of NaNoWriMo.
PREPARING FOR NANOWRIMO
We are a mere week away to the start of this year’s NANOWRIMO and if you haven’t started making plans it’s not too late.
There is no set way on how to write a novel, everyone has their own way. You may have heard the phrase “Plotter or Pantser” which describes whether a person outlines their novel before writing it or whether they fly by the seat of their pants and go without making too many plans. There are benefits of doing it both ways and it really is all about what works for you. I, myself, am an outliner, I like having a rough map of where I’m going before I set out. I plan out my chapters and create my characters in advance of sitting down to write. While some feel this is way too stifling and can’t be quite as creative it helps give me a framework to keep the story moving forward and avoid getting stuck for ideas halfway through. If I’m struck by some paths or ideas that aren’t on my outline I still draft out the scenes and see if they’ll fit in down the road. I recommend you follow the path that feels right for you. If you are not sure where to start there are some great books out there. Two I recommend are No Plot, No Problem by Chris Baty, the founder of NANOWRIMO and Outlining Your Novel by K.M. Weiland. Both are incredibly good books that each offer a unique perspective on whether to plot or not. NaNoWriMo also has a great NaNo Prep handbook that’s free to download here.
Personally, I can’t wait until November first and I am putting the finishing touches to my story notebook, have already set up my outline on my computer and I’ve been busy creating a mood board for my new story on Pinterest and my writing soundtrack on Spotify, all to help keep me inspired and motivated while I write. If you are thinking of joining the website please feel free to add me as a buddy here! Don’t forget to log-in, buddy up and get valuable tips and encouragement on the NaNoWriMo website please feel free to add me as a buddy here!
Friday, November 1, 2019 | 6:30pm
Toronto Reference Library
Welcome to the October 2019 ~Autumn Issue of Professor Owl’s Book Corner Newsletter where in addition to supporting those with special needs and learning challenges, we are also committed to being more focused on YA/New Adult reading and literacy. We will be featuring tips from a certified literacy tutor to help make your reading experience the best it can be.
We will also be encouraging young writers and artists with tips, writing exercises and will still be updating our Community News Boards with the latest news from Variety Village and The March of Dimes.
Professor Owl’s Book Corner hopes you enjoy this month’s edition! Please feel free to give us your feedback on our new issue, also send us any ideas you may have to help Professor Owl’s Book Corner be all that it can be. We look forward to hearing from you and to bring you a new, more interesting newsletter.
AUTUMN 2019
Autumn is always a magical time, the weather is slightly cooler, the leaves are changing and there is so many magical moments to be found.
Gathering Leaves
by Robert Frost
Spades take up leaves
No better than spoons,
And bags full of leaves
Are light as balloons.
I make a great noise
Of rustling all-day
Like rabbit and deer
Running away.
But the mountains I raise
Elude my embrace,
Flowing over my arms
And into my face.
I may load and unload
Again and again
Till I fill the whole shed,
And what have I then?
Next to nothing for weight,
And since they grew duller
From contact with earth,
Next to nothing for color.
Next to nothing for use.
But a crop is a crop,
And who’s to say where
The harvest shall stop?
Fall (Autumn) Facts for Kids
Autumn is one of four seasons that occurs from roughly September 21 through December 21. It is more commonly known as “fall” because the leaves fall off of deciduous trees during the season. Here are some more autumn facts for kids. Leaf Facts
Think you know everything there is to know about leaves? You may be surprised to learn the following facts:
Leaves require sunlight, water, chlorophyll and carbon dioxide to make food for themselves.
As winter approaches, leaves make a coating for themselves which blocks their water source; in the absence of water, the leaves no longer produce chlorophyll (chlorophyll is what makes leaves green).
When the leaves turn colours in the fall, they are returning to their normal colours. During the summer months, the chlorophyll present in the leaves causes the leaves to turn green, blocking the leaves’ actual colours.
Along with chlorophyll, leaves contain two other chemicals that cause colouring. The first is called xanthophyll, which is yellow in colour. The other is carotene, which is orange in colour.
Red and purple leaves are actually caused by the presence of sugars from sap that is trapped inside of the leaves.
Once the leaves have turned brown they are dead and no longer receive any nutrient
Halloween is a big part of autumn.
Although last month we had our Halloween issue, here are some more fun facts about this celebration: Halloween Facts
The traditional Halloween colours of orange and black come from two different sources. First, orange is the colour of autumn leaves and pumpkins, which have come to symbolize Halloween. Black is the colour of darkness and mystery, which matches the theme of ghosts and other spooky creatures at Halloween.
There is no scientific proof that ghosts exist; however, there is a field of study called parapsychology that is dedicated to studying spooky phenomena like ghosts and psychic powers. Parapsychologists use the scientific method to explore strange phenomena and learn more about things like ghosts.
Halloween was originally a pagan holiday to honour the dead, and the holiday was known as All Hallows Eve. The date, October 31, is the last day of the Celtic calendar.
Wearing masks on Halloween is an ancient Celtic tradition. Ancient Celts believed that ghosts roamed on Halloween, and they wore masks to hide from the spirits.
Vampire folklore comes from Romania. Romanians in the 18th century believed that the dead could rise after death by suicide or other suspicious circumstances and feed on the blood of the living.
Another holiday associated with autumn is Thanksgiving.
In Canada, it is celebrated on the second Monday in October although it is celebrated in November in the United States.
The first pilgrims arrived in North America in December of 1620.
The first Thanksgiving was celebrated in Plymouth in the fall of 1621.
The Native American tribe invited to the first Thanksgiving dinner were the Wampanoag Indians.
The first Thanksgiving feast lasted for three full days.
Thanksgiving was not recognized as an official holiday until 1941, when Congress decided that the holiday should be observed officially on the fourth Thursday in November every single year. The date was chosen by President Franklin D. Roosevelt to make the Christmas shopping season longer to aid in the country’s financial recovery from the Great Depression. Prior to the date being set in 1941, it was up to the president to set the date for Thanksgiving each year.
With Halloween coming up at the end of this month, Professor Owl’s Book Corner would love to share with you some great costumes ideas for those who are confined to a wheelchair.
The Magic Wheelchair
Magic Wheelchair is a nonprofit organization that makes epic costumes for children in wheelchairs. Kids, with their parents’ permission, submit a 1-3-minute video telling us what they want to be for Halloween, a parade, or another big day and why.
Ryan and Lana Weimer, the founders of Magic Wheelchair, have five children, three of whom were born with Spinal Muscular Atrophy, which requires the use of wheelchairs for the entirety of their lives. Each Halloween, Ryan made the biggest, “baddest” costumes he could for his sons, Keaton and Bryce.
Quintos Academy: Self-Education for Real Life Success This Lesson builds on Part I and then Proceeds to the sounds of N: NA, NE, NI, NO, NU M: MA, ME, MI, MO, MU R: RA, RE, RI, RO, RU L: LA, LE, LI, LO
Coral
by
Sara Ella (Goodreads Author)
3.77 · Rating details · 151 ratings · 129 reviews
In a world where humanity often seems lost, what does it mean to be human? A new twist on Hans Christian Andersen’s beloved—yet tragic—fairy tale “The Little Mermaid.”
There’s more than one way to drown.
Coral has always been different, standing out from her mermaid sisters in a society where blending in is key. Worse yet, she fears she has been afflicted with the dreaded Disease, said to be carried by humans—emotions. Can she face the darkness long enough to surface in the light?
Above the sea, Brooke has nothing left to give. Depression and anxiety have left her feeling isolated. Forgotten. The only thing she can rely on is the numbness she finds within the cool and comforting ocean waves. If only she weren’t stuck at Fathoms—a new group therapy home that promises a second chance at life. But what’s the point of living if her soul is destined to bleed?
Merrick may be San Francisco’s golden boy, but he wants nothing more than to escape his controlling father. When his younger sister’s suicide attempt sends Merrick to his breaking point, escape becomes the only option. If he can find their mom, everything will be made right again—right?
When their worlds collide, all three will do whatever it takes to survive, and Coral might even catch a prince in the process. But what—and who—must they leave behind for life to finally begin?
This was a wonderful story that was part fantasy and part reality which had me hooked right from the start. Once I started reading this book, I did not want to put the book down until it was finished.
Sara Ella gives readers an honest, candid portrayal of depression that’s sure to resonate with readers.
About Sara Ella.
Once upon a time, Sara Ella dreamed she would marry a prince and live in a Disney castle. Today, she spends her days throwing living room dance parties for her two princesses, raising her little prince to be a king, and conquering realms of her own imaginings. Oh, and her husband is definitely more swoon-worthy than any Prince Charming.
Sara’s UNBLEMISHED trilogy has received high praise and multiple awards, but none as rewarding as the love and support she receives from her readers every day. Her new story CORAL, a reimagining of THE LITTLE MERMAID, releases in the fall of 2019.
When she’s not on deadline, Sara Ella can most often be found fangirling on Facebook, Instagram, or her YouTube channel. She may or may not be obsessed with #Bookstagram, which feeds her current addiction to bookish tea and candles. A lover of fairy tales, she believes “Happily Ever After is Never Far Away.”
Coral
bySara Ella (Goodreads Author)
In a world where humanity often seems lost, what does it mean to be human? A new twist on Hans Christian Andersen’s beloved—yet tragic—fairy tale “The Little Mermaid.”
There’s more than one way to drown.
Coral has always been different, standing out from her mermaid sisters in a society where blending in is key. Worse yet, she fears she has been afflicted with the dreaded Disease, said to be carried by humans—emotions. Can she face the darkness long enough to surface in the light?
Above the sea, Brooke has nothing left to give. Depression and anxiety have left her feeling isolated. Forgotten. The only thing she can rely on is the numbness she finds within the cool and comforting ocean waves. If only she weren’t stuck at Fathoms—a new group therapy home that promises a second chance at life. But what’s the point of living if her soul is destined to bleed?
Merrick may be San Francisco’s golden boy, but he wants nothing more than to escape his controlling father. When his younger sister’s suicide attempt sends Merrick to his breaking point, escape becomes the only option. If he can find their mom, everything will be made right again—right?
When their worlds collide, all three will do whatever it takes to survive, and Coral might even catch a prince in the process. But what—and who—must they leave behind for life to finally begin?
This was a wonderful story that was part fantasy and part reality which had me hooked right from the start. Once I started reading this book, I did not want to put the book down until it was finished.
Sara Ella gives readers an honest, candid portrayal of depression that’s sure to resonate with readers.
About Author
Sara Ella
Once upon a time, Sara Ella dreamed she would marry a prince and live in a Disney castle. Today, she spends her days throwing living room dance parties for her two princesses, raising her little prince to be a king, and conquering realms of her own imaginings. Oh, and her husband is definitely more swoon-worthy than any Prince Charming.
Sara’s unblemished trilogy has received high praise and multiple awards, but none as rewarding as the love and support she receives from her readers every day. Her new story CORAL, a reimagining of THE LITTLE MERMAID, releases in the fall of 2019.
When she’s not on deadline, Sara Ella can most often be found fangirling on Facebook, Instagram, or her YouTube channel. She may or may not be obsessed with #Bookstagram, which feeds her current addiction to bookish tea and candles. A lover of fairy tales, she believes “Happily Ever After is Never Far Away.”
We would love to hear about your favourite books and your views on the ones we recommend here… send them To: professorowl@outlook.com
Writing prompts are a wonderful way to kick-start your creativity and generate ideas. There isn’t a right or wrong way respond, just be honest, be creative and use your imagination!
“It’s said that All Hallows’ Eve is one of the nights when the veil between the worlds is thin – and whether you believe in such things or not, those roaming spirits probably believe in you, or at least acknowledge your existence, considering that it used to be their own. Even the air feels different on Halloween, autumn-crisp and bright.” ~Erin Morgenstern
With Halloween around the corner, many of us partake in reading ghost and horror stories. Imagine one dark and stormy night you are reading the creepiest book ever only to find its creepy creatures, ghouls and goblins have come to life. Write about your ghoulish adventures.
Get creative, write and have fun!
Writing Prompt…A picture is worth a thousand words…
“Spiders’ webs only have to be large enough to catch flies. ~ Neil Gaiman”
What happens when an evil genius weaves a horrific web of lies and deceit to trap an innocent victim? Write about what happens when their plan backfires on them.
It’s that time again!!!!
ATTENTION ALL YOUNG WRITERS!
Are you a young writer 17 years of age or under who has always wanted to participate in NaNoWriMo? Well, you can!!! Did you know that NaNoWriMo has a Young Writers Programme just for you?
What is NaNoWriMo?
NaNoWriMo or National Novel Writing Month happens every November! It’s a fun-filled, writing-fueled, seat-of-your-pants writing event where the challenge is to write an entire novel in just 30 days. Participants begin writing November 1 and must finish by midnight, November 30. The word-count goal for the adult program is 50,000 words, but the Young Writers Program (YWP) allows young writers to set reasonable individual word-count goals.
Every year approximately 100,000 young writers participate check out their website and sign up to participate…..http://ywp.nanowrimo.org/
PREPARING FOR NANOWRIMO
We are a mere month away to the start of this year’s NANOWRIMO and if you are like me you are looking forward to it.
Find the Time! Figure out what your word count will be and divide this by 30 to get your daily word count goal. Once you know how many words you need to write to finish on by the end of the month you’ll need to organize your time. This might be tricky for some but if you create a schedule it might be easier to commit to writing every day. Try to figure out when you are going to be able to work on NaNoWriMo. Do you have time after school? Could you get up a bit earlier in the morning? Do you have extracurricular activities that might get in the way, how can you work around these? Can you right on your lunch break at school? Create a calendar and try to find where you think you’ll have free time each day and try to commit to writing during that set time. DVR your favourite TV shows, perhaps save movie nights for when NaNoWriMo is over, remember it’s only 30 days.
Start working on a story idea! Keep a notepad and spend time just brainstorming and jotting down story ideas. What works for me is asking “What if?” “What if my favourite mythological character decides to live among us mere mortals?” Do they hide their abilities or powers? Do they fit in or are they ostracized by society for being different? What if Ares gets a job as a clown? What if Hades becomes the lead singer in a boy band? These are a bit goofy but sometimes you’ve got to write down both the good and bad ideas, don’t censor yourself. Sometimes something will spark another idea that’s worth keeping!
Get to know your characters! Spending a little time with your characters will make it easier for you to write about them. You’ll need to know more than how old they are or what they look like. Create a character bible on Pinterest. Go through images and create a board that shows you what your characters look like, who are they? Where do they live? How do they dress? What are there hobbies? Also, know that through most stories the characters grow and change. Does your character go from weak to strong, or from poor to rich? You’ll need to know who they will become throughout the story. I’ve created a Storyboard divided into sections on Pinterest for my upcoming Urban Fantasy Trilogy Moon of Morrigan. My character board is here: Moon of Morrigan Character Board
Take some time to organize your thoughts. Whether you outline or not having a rough idea of where you are going will save you time when it comes to writing. The same goes for research, if you need specific information to help with your story, now is the time to make notes and prepare all the information you need beforehand. If you want to write an outline now would be the perfect time to do that. There are so many ways to outline from J.K. Rowling’s scribbled handwritten outline to using index cards to outline scenes but if you prefer using your computer you can also create spreadsheets or if you’re lucky enough use a software such as Scrivener. If you scour Pinterest you will also find so many resources to help you find a way to outline that works for you.
Brush up on your skills. There is no set way on how to write a novel, everyone has their own way. You may have heard the phrase “Plotter or Pantser” which describes whether a person outlines their novel before writing it or whether they fly by the seat of their pants and go without making too many plans. There are benefits of doing it both ways and it really is all about what works for you. I, myself, am an outliner, I like having a rough map of where I’m going before I set out. I plan out my chapters and create my characters in advance of sitting down to write. While some feel this is way too stifling and can’t be quite as creative it helps give me a framework to keep the story moving forward and avoid getting stuck for ideas halfway through. If I’m struck by some paths or ideas that aren’t on my outline, I still draft out the scenes and see if they’ll fit in down the road. I recommend you follow the path that feels right for you. If you are not sure where to start there are some great books out there. Two I recommend are No Plot, No Problem by Chris Baty, the founder of NANOWRIMO and Outlining Your Novel by K.M. Weiland. Both are incredibly good books that each offer a unique perspective on whether to plot or not.
Why not give it a try, you are not alone. So many of us love writing and NaNoWriMo is a perfect way to dedicate yourself for 30 days of edge of your seat writing. It’s the one place you can get support through online or area write-ins, interact with other writers and even make friends not to mention perhaps spawning your own novel! In fact, many NaNoWriMo novels became rough drafts which eventually became published novels. Books such as Water for Elephants, by Sara Gruen, The Night Circus, by Erin Morgenstern, Fangirl, by Rainbow Rowell, Wool, by Hugh Howey, The Darwin Elevator, by Jason M. Hough and Cinder, Scarlet, and Cress by Marissa Meyer were all born out of NaNoWriMo.
I hope you join in the fun! Drop Professor Owl a note by commenting below if you have any tips to help with NaNoWriMo! Good luck and happy writing! 🙂
Variety Village
Follow this page every month in Professor Owl’s Book corner to get the most up to date events at Variety Village.
Variety the Children’s Charity and Variety Village promotes appreciation, interaction, empowerment and inclusion. We facilitate the achievement of life goals for people with disabilities through sports, fitness, wellness; awareness; education for more than 60 years, Variety Ontario has worked with young people with disabilities and those who face developmental barriers to achieve their life potential. We are a world-recognized authority providing integrated sports and life skills programs, applied research and learning programs that change children’s lives and strengthen communities.
We’ve achieved this reputation because of our ongoing work to better the lives of children and young people with disabilities. We are active in the greater Toronto area and across Ontario promoting the inclusion of young people through our three areas of expertise:
Integrated sports and life skills programs:
Children’s programming is delivered at Variety Village and throughout Ontario.
Applied research:
Reflecting our philosophy, our practical and theoretical work develops equipment, games and curricula promoting access, awareness and adapted activities.
Learning programs:
Our academic and professional certifications programs draw students and teachers from around the world to learn and study our best practices and approaches, to participate in their applications and to learn how to adapt their own programs and initiatives.
Our hope is to foster a more integrated society, where everyone feels welcome, inspired and hopeful about his or her future.
Various positions are available from working with children in programs to administrative work and special events.
Join us Saturday, October 5 here at Variety for our Jeep Raffle Draw and Community BBQ celebration. MUSIC | OPEN-HOUSE | KID’S ACTIVITIES, & GAMES & MORE!
Come and join our community of members, neighbours, local businesses and Jeepers to celebrate the ticket draw of our first ever Jeep Raffle! Enjoy Barbequed burgers and dogs and play games and activities for the whole family. Free tours of the facility for non-members.
Stay tuned for more news!
DID YOU GET YOUR JEEP RAFFLE TICKETS YET? Click here to buy now or learn more!
WHEN: Saturday, October 5, 2019
WHERE: 3701 Danforth Avenue. Scarborough ON
TIME: 12:00 noon – 5:00pm
To Plan an event or find out information on future ones
For more information on these Variety Village Events and Programs, please contact/ www.varietyvillage.ca
March of Dimes is a community-based rehabilitation and advocacy charity for people with physical disabilities http://www.marchofdimes.Welcome:
End-of-summer blues? Not to worry. The reds and oranges of Fall will be here soon to cheer you up. In the meantime, how about some amazing news? March of Dimes Canada has raised almost $2 million for Canadians living with disabilities!
We’d like to extend a huge thank you (and congratulations) to all the bands, judges, sponsors, volunteers and donors who have helped make this a milestone year. Your help, support and care is what keeps us going.
Thank you again and see you all at the next Rock for Dimes event. Oh, and don’t forget to check out our new website at http://www.rockfordimes.ca… it rocks!
Top 3 reasons we love Rock for Dimes
• Each event helps raise funds for March of Dimes Canada’s programs like After Stroke, the one-stop destination for stroke survivors on their journey to Realizing the Possible after a stroke.
• There’s some serious talent out there! From covers to originals, the live music is quite simply sensational.
• The band names alone are reason enough to come to the events. Oui B. Jamon, FreshWater Sharks, The Fission Katz? Brilliant.
Focus on: FreshWater Sharks
Beware of FreshWater Sharks… Yes, they exist and they’re definitely a menace. Just ask anyone who attended Rock for Dimes in Vancouver and Toronto earlier this year. They’ll tell you that although competition was fierce, FreshWater Sharks blew everyone out of the water.
The four-piece band (with the great name!) took top prize at both events, which is no small feat. But what’s even more astonishing is that before their first victory in Vancouver, they had only rehearsed a half-dozen times.
“It was quite exhilarating for us as the band had never performed together,” says Burke Ehmig, guitarist.
So what’s their secret? Burke explains, “We’re a simple band. Guitar, drums, bass, lead vocals, background vocals. Every note counts and everyone brings their best game. It’s a rare group of people we have right now so we’re embracing that.”
Mark Grindlay, on bass, adds that the music they create is “pure, authentic and true”, and that they only play “stuff that feels right. Things that move people, and move us. I know that’s hopelessly drawn out but just stuff that gels and works.”
Needless to say, it’s that kind of on-stage chemistry that makes Rock for Dimes worth experiencing. Live music for a great cause, with a frenzy of bands battling it out for the lion’s share of applause and adoration.
Supporting March of Dimes Canada has meant a lot to the FreshWater Sharks. Mark, who is also a member of the Vancouver committee for MODC, says that it’s all about “raising awareness and putting the March of Dimes Canada name out there for anybody who might not know about it.”
Currently in rehearsals, this exciting new band (whose two other members are Kat Knite, lead vocals, and Steve Wong, drums) is writing and recording to produce an upcoming EP by 2019. Follow them on Instagram at @fwsharksband and Twitter @fwsharksband
Life after stroke!
Every journey to recovery is unique. But one thing that many stroke survivors have in common is their desire and willingness to get better. We are proud that Rock for Dimes, that supports March of Dimes Canada’s After Stroke programs, plays a big role in their recovery.
Take Chris Munn. Chris was living a healthy, active life when a stroke turned everything upside down, and presented him with the enormous challenge of
re-learning the most basic daily tasks.
Chris recalls his first night in the hospital, “I needed to go to the washroom. I wasn’t used to my leg and arm not working. I tried to get up and slid to the floor.”
Thankfully, March of Dimes Canada’s After Stroke program was there to help Chris get back on his feet. He can now complete small tasks around the house, have conversations and read books again. He’s even taken up new hobbies, including art and dance, and is optimistic that with continued support through After Stroke, he’ll one day be able to bike again.
From rehab and physio services, to speech therapy programs and support groups, After Stroke is helping stroke survivors throughout their journey to recovery, and facilitating their transition from hospital to home and from home to community.
Events Review: And the Beat Goes On…
RFD Toronto
Upcoming Events for October, 2019
More Rock For Dimes Events!
But Wait, it’s Not Over: Up Next…
information on Rock for Dimes in October and November 2019
Rock For Dimes Toronto 2019 – Facebook
https://www.facebook.com › events › mod-club-theatre › rock-for-dimes-t…
Causes event in Toronto, ON, Canada by March Of Dimes Canada on Thursday, … for the evening, and our Rock For Dimes Toronto 2019 judges: David Barrett, The Dave … http://www.marchofdimes.ca. Events with March Of Dimes Canada. OCT17 …
If you live in any of these areas, mark your calendar now to save the date for an evening of fun you won’t soon forget. Keep an eye out for further information on electrifying events across Canada in upcoming Rock for Dimes e-newsletters.
Over 65 years of helping to maximize independence,
personal empowerment and community participation of
people with disabilities.
http://www.marchofdimes.ca Toll-Free:1-800-263-3463
Charitable Registration No. 10788 3928 RR0001
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March of Dimes Canada received prestigious accreditation under Imagine Canada’s national Standards Program for excellence in nonprofit accountability, transparency and good governance. The Standards Program Trustmark is a mark of Imagine Canada used under licence by March of Dimes Canada.
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amti@marchofdimes.ca
Tel (toll-free): 1-855-660-6632
Fax: 519-432-4923
Assistive Mobile Technology Initiative Past Winners
March of Dimes Canada was there for residents in Nova Scotia, Montreal, Vancouver and Calgary, presenting customized tablets with specialized software/apps to improve community access and participation!
March of Dimes Canada have already helped residents with physical disabilities in the Nova Scotia, Montreal,
March of Dimes Canada
10 Overlea Blvd.
Toronto, Ontario M4H1A4
CA
For more information on the March of Dimes and their events please visit >www.marchofdimes.ca
www.alphca aplus .ca ~ In these pages you will find resources and information to enrich your learning experience. www.homeworkcentral.com ~ Register with this site and you get information on Online tutoring, words and vocabulary, homework help and much more. www.funbrain.com ~ Lots of fun and challenging activities for you and your family
The #WATWB was created as a mission to negate the overwhelming negativity that has been present in our social media streams. For every negative news story in the world, there are plenty of positive, uplifting stories that show hope, compassion and the resiliency of everyday people who face insurmountable challenges. Our hope is to share heartwarming stories that lift the human spirit.
The last Friday of every month bloggers will share their stories led by six co-hosts, this month’s co-hosts are-
This months story is about young people who have a disability and yet have still found
away to follow their passions in life which is music.
ILL-ABILITIES Dance Crew
ILL-ABILITIES Dance Crew is an all-star team of differently-abled dancers whose goal is to inspire audiences across the world with its positive attitudes and unique dance moves! This international break dance crew is comprised of eight dancers from Brazil, Canada, Chile, South Korea, The Netherlands, and the United States.
In its show, No Excuses, No Limits, ILL-ABILITIES Dance Crew shares the individual stories of its performers with motivational entertainment programs and theatrical dance moves.
Come and experience the profound wonder of No Excuses, No Limits by the ILL-ABILITIES Dance Crew at the International Stage from August 16 to 25! For more information on the ILL-ABILITI Crew https://www.illabilities.com
Welcome to the October 19th, 2019. Fall /Autumn Issue of Professor Owl’s Book Corner Newsletter where in addition to supporting those with special needs and learning challenges, we are also committed to being more focused on YA/New Adult reading and literacy. We will be featuring tips from a certified literacy tutor to help make your reading experience the best it can be.
We will also be encouraging young writers and artists with tips, writing exercises and will still be updating our Community News Boards with the latest news from Variety Village and The March of Dimes.
Professor Owl’s Book Corner hopes you enjoy this month’s edition! Please feel free to give us your feedback on our new issue, also send us any ideas you may have to help Professor Owl’s Book Corner be all that it can be. We look forward to hearing from you and to bring you a new, more interesting newsletter.
Since it is back to school again ~ which could mean a new computer, tablet or phone, we are therefore publishing the Online Safety tips to keep you safe this coming year.
Gathering Leaves
by Robert Frost
Spades take up leaves
No better than spoons,
And bags full of leaves
Are light as balloons.
I make a great noise
Of rustling all day
Like rabbit and deer
Running away.
But the mountains I raise
Elude my embrace,
Flowing over my arms
And into my face.
I may load and unload
Again and again
Till I fill the whole shed,
And what have I then?
Next to nothing for weight,
And since they grew duller
From contact with earth,
Next to nothing for color.
Next to nothing for use.
But a crop is a crop,
And who’s to say where
The harvest shall stop?
Fall (Autumn) Facts for Kids:
Autumn is one of four seasons that occurs from roughly September 21 through December 21. It is more commonly known as “fall” because the leaves fall-off of deciduous trees during the season. Here are some more autumn facts for kids.
Leaf Facts:
Think you know everything there is to know about leaves? You may be surprised to learn the following facts:
Leaves require sunlight, water, chlorophyll and carbon dioxide to make food for themselves.
As winter approaches, leaves make a coating for themselves which blocks their water source; in the absence of water, the leaves no longer produce chlorophyll (chlorophyll is what makes leaves green).
When the leaves turn colors in the fall, they are returning to their normal colors. During the summer months, the chlorophyll present in the leaves causes the leaves to turn green, blocking the leaves’ actual colors.
Along with chlorophyll, leaves contain two other chemicals that cause coloring. The first is called xanthophyll, which is yellow in color. The other is carotene, which is orange in color.
Red and purple leaves are actually caused by the presence of sugars from sap that is trapped inside of the leaves.
Once the leaves have turned brown, they are dead and no longer receive any nutrient
Halloween is a big part of autumn.
Although last month we had our Halloween issue, here are some more fun facts about this celebration:
Halloween Facts
The traditional Halloween colors of orange and black come from two different sources. First, orange is the color of autumn leaves and pumpkins, which have come to symbolize Halloween. Black is the color of darkness and mystery, which matches the theme of ghosts and other spooky creatures at Halloween.
There is no scientific proof that ghosts exist; however, there is a field of study called parapsychology that is dedicated to studying spooky phenomena like ghosts and psychic powers. Parapsychologists use scientific method to explore strange phenomena and learn more about things like ghosts.
Halloween was originally a pagan holiday to honor the dead, and the holiday was known as All Hallows Eve. The date, October 31, is the last day of the Celtic calendar.
Wearing masks on Halloween is an ancient Celtic tradition. Ancient Celts believed that ghosts roamed on Halloween, and they wore masks to hide from the spirits.
Vampire folklore comes from Romania. Romanians in the 18th century believed that the dead could rise after death by suicide or other suspicious circumstances and feed on the blood of the living.
Another holiday associated with autumn is Thanksgiving.:
In Canada, it is celebrated on the second Monday in October.
The first pilgrims arrived in North America in December of 1620.
The first Thanksgiving was celebrated in Plymouth in the fall of 1621.
The Native American tribe invited to the first Thanksgiving dinner were the Wampanoag Indians.
The first Thanksgiving feast lasted for three full days.
Thanksgiving was not recognized as an official holiday until 1941, when Congress decided that the holiday should be observed officially on the fourth Thursday in November every single year. The date was chosen by President Franklin D. Roosevelt to make the Christmas shopping season longer to aid in the country’s financial recovery from the Great Depression. Prior to the date being set in 1941, it was up to the president to set the date for Thanksgiving each year.
I received a complimentary ARC copy of Ever Alice by H.J. Ramsay from NetGalley and Red Rogue Press
…a wonderfully whimsical and fun story inspired by Alice and Wonderland …
The author has created a brilliant and unique take on Lewis Carroll’s, Alice in Wonderland. A unique plotline, quirky characters and an interesting interpretation of the characters Carroll is famous for. Ramsay creates a humourous story about 15-year-old Alice whose parents are concerned with her rantings about her friend “the white rabbit”. Her parents fear that after a near-drowning, the trauma has caused her to lose her mind and as a result commit her to an insane asylum for treatment. Alice endures the asylum and after a while, when just on the verge of being released home, a nasty nurse exposes Alice by sharing her journal filled with rants about the white rabbit and a place called Wonderland. At a loss, the asylum staff decide to take her to see a doctor famous for curing individuals with a surgical procedure. After seeing other patients Alice realizes this procedure isn’t going to be as easy as she is told, luckily at the direst moment, her friend the “white rabbit” appears and whisks her away to Wonderland where her adventure begins.
Filled with humour, this is a wonderfully whimsical and fun story inspired by Alice in Wonderland and although a YA novel I would recommend to young and old alike.
A civilization is threatened, and she may hold the key to the world’s survival…
As a child, Sali watched her mother vanish into thin air. Despite knowing what she saw, no one believed her—including her family and the police.
Years later, she receives an anonymous note, hinting at her mother’s whereabouts. Unexpectedly, Sali is pulled into a dying world where she meets Yakhar, a young man who is next in line to rule over Centaura, a world of five kingdoms. A world that seems strangely familiar to Sali.
But the looming death of the planet has unleashed a dormant threat. Together, Sali and Yakhar must convince the council of elders to change a centuries-old law to defeat a race of powerful beings, or Centaura, and Sali’s mom, may be lost forever.
A little bit jerky at the beginning, but on the whole a great read that I recommend for younger fans and any one older who enjoys an good book. It has a great ambience and characters, easy to get involved in the plot. Once into the storyline, it was hard to put the book down until it was finished. Looking forward to reading any other books written by Oumar.
I would like to thank NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
About the Author
Oumar Dieng
Oumar Dieng is an emerging American author. He writes young adult fiction as well as non-fiction. His books tell stories that evoke vivid imagery and stimulate the imagination. He is also the host of the Motivational Voice Podcast, a podcast that focuses on creating positive habits. Sali and the Five Kingdoms is his debut novel.
Oumar Dieng started out writing short fictional stories and poetry at the age of 11 to cope with his father’s sudden passing. Five years later, he was finalist at a national poetry award. He lives in Minnesota with his wife, kids, and cats.
The #WATWB was created as a mission to negate the overwhelming negativity that has been present in our social media streams. For every negative news story in the world, there are plenty of positive, uplifting stories that show hope, compassion and the resiliency of everyday people who face insurmountable challenges. Our hope is to share heartwarming stories that lift the human spirit.
The last Friday of every month bloggers will share their stories led by six co-hosts, this month’s co-hosts are: Shilpa Garg, Simon FalkLizbeth HartzDamyanti Biswas, Eric Lahti
Professor Owl’s Book Corner has always been for and about children and young adults who in spite of their illness or disability have turned their lives around and have achieved the impossible. This young man really has made a possible difference to his and others lives. For more information or to join our #WATWB please click here]
Let’s change the way we think about disability | Joel Dembe | TEDxMississauga
Making an accessible Canada for people with disabilities … https://www.canada.ca/…/programs/accessible-people-disabilities.html The Government of Canada is building on this legacy to improve accessibility and promote inclusion for everyone in Canada. The Accessible Canada Act With the adoption of An Act to Ensure a Barrier-free Canada (Accessible Canada Act) , the Government of Canada is fulfilling its mandate promise to introduce new accessibility legislation.
…a wonderfully unique plotline, compelling characters and an interesting and terrifying (reading and books are outlawed *shudders*) world! …
I absolutely loved this book! The author has created a brilliant and unique take on Arthurian legend. Filled with a wonderfully unique plotline, compelling characters and an interesting and terrifying world (where reading & books are outlawed *shudders*😲)!
The story begins with Arti, our protagonist, on the run after her parents are arrested for being readers and having a hidden library brimming with books in their home. A neighbour has reported them and their home is raided. Hiding behind a shelf Arti barely escapes the destruction of her home and is on the run for her freedom. Morgan Fay, the head of “The Corporation” is an acting government of sorts and has banned reading and books throughout the land. Arti is being hunted by The Flames (Fay’s enforcement officers) who will stop at nothing until they bring readers to justice. Scared, lost and on the run Arti meets a young street smart girl named Gal who helps her navigate her new life on the run. Gal unable to read is moved and they bond when Arti introduces her to the beauty of reading.
With her world in danger and at risk of having any readers annihilated, Arti teams up with some interesting characters along the way. She meets Merl at an abandoned Garage called “Camel-Lot” when they stumble upon his motor home hidden in one of the Bays. Peeking in the window they notice him reading an ancient looking tome. Arti knowing he is one of “them” decides to talk to him and their lives change forever. Merl who has been looking for the “chosen one” who can read the hidden text in the tome and is elated when he realizes there is hope for the world. One by one her knights are drawn to her. Along with Merl, Gal and Arti, Lance and Gwen join them on a crusade to restore reading to their world.
A fun fast-paced and interesting take on a classic story that I would highly recommend for young and old alike.
The #WATWB was created as a mission to negate the overwhelming negativity that has been present in our social media streams. For every negative news story in the world, there are plenty of positive, uplifting stories that show hope, compassion and the resiliency of everyday people who face insurmountable challenges. Our hope is to share heartwarming stories that lift the human spirit.
The last Friday of every month bloggers will share their stories led by six co-hosts, this month’s co-hosts are:
The story below is very relevant to me at present, it shows one that you are never to old to begin again and follow your dreams.
At age 102, Julia Hawkins has a lot of passions in life, but none more thrilling than running. She broke a world record for the 100-meter dash by female competitors 100 years and older and she shows no signs of stopping.
For more information or to join our #WATWB please click here.
