Week 14 - A Reflection and Fair Well

Initial thoughts about online classes

This was an interesting experience for me.  It was my first time taking an online class.  The online classroom setting took some getting used to but has many benefits.  I have always shied away from online courses due to my lack of knowledge about them.  Initially, I was the guy saying, “I need face-to-face contact.”  Now, I highly recommend the forum for those yearning for a more convenient way of learning. 

JoMC 711: Writing for Digital Media explored online avenues to achieve effective communication, which include:

• Creating blogs
• Including hyperlinks
• Writing with an active voice
• Building a hierarchy to assist skimming
• Uploading images
• Creating maps
• Working with wikis
• Reporting through liveblogging
• Outsourcing tasks through crowd-sourcing
• Sending news feeds through Twitter and other social media trends

Learning from the professor and peers 

Professor Brian Carroll did a great job providing timely feedback to assignments and inspiring the students to add to the discussions.  The diverse group of students provided insights from a variety of backgrounds.  Each week, different individuals shared their knowledge and experiences through the discussion forums.   

Challenges and changes in my writing

Writing has always been a challenge for me. So, completing the writing assignments took longer than expected.  I found myself having to check comma use, punctuation marks, and I still ended up creating verb tenses.  This class helped me gain confidence in writing.  The detailed critiques were more welcomed than a deterrent.  I realize that I have a deficiency and is working towards improving it.

The quality of my writing was improved when I allowed more time for more drafts.  By taking breaks and revisiting the writing, I noticed errors that did not stand out before.  As I read the draft, I would think about ways to say something better or if it should be written with less words.

I am more conscious of writing to a specific target audience.  Since the audience of the class was web-based the addition of hyperlinks and images help support your position on a topic or provide more information for those wanting to know more.  On the web, the reader is more likely to skim the writing instead of scroll.  The inverted-pyramid approach attempts to provide the most important parts of an article in case the reader is not motivated to review the entire piece.

Looking forward to learning more

I have always heard great things about the J-School from family and friends.  I definitely benefited from taking this class and feel it was a great start to becoming a better writer. 

I look forward to expanding my knowledge of digital communication, while continuing my enrollment in the Certificate in Technology and Communication program.

Week 13 - WebMediaBrands Inc. Privacy Policy Response

Private policy review

I have never read a privacy policy before this assignment.  I perused several options before selecting one to review.  They all started out with a statement about how much they respect the privacy of the users on their site. 

This is a response to the privacy policy adopted by the WebMediaBrands, Inc., which includes SocialTimes.com.  The privacy policy informs users of personal data collection and use practices on all WEBM Network owned Web pages, newsletters, discussion forums and lists.  Users accept the terms of the privacy policy through participation on WEMB Network owned entities.

Practices that benefit the user

The privacy policy informs users of the general purpose of a computer internet protocol (IP) address, HTTP cookies and web bugs.  The IP address is automatically recognized by Web servers once visiting a WEMB Network Web site.  Cookies are used only to identify which areas of WEBM's Network a user visits or has customized.  WEBM Web servers does not automatically gather credit card information and e-mail addresses of the users nor collect data targeting specific individuals through the use of web bugs.  

WEBM Web sites utilize a shopping cart feature that safeguards information by using industry standard transport layer security (TLS) encrypted servers. TLS codes the information transferred between the user and the server, rendering it unreadable to those attempting to intercept the information.

Information collected by WEBM is only used to:

• Examine traffic of aggregate data
• Maintain your account within discussion forums
• Investigate, protect and defend the rights or property of the WEBM Network of sites due to misuse 
• Cooperate with the investigations of unlawful activities by identifying persons who may be violating the law

Practices that put the user at risk

By setting your browser not to accept cookies, you limit the features to areas of WEBM Web sites.  In order to view and use the Web sites as intended, you are forced to accept cookies.  Third party service providers and advertisers use web bugs to track personal information from cookies that may have been previously placed on a user's computer.

Third party providers may gather your name, e-mail address, mailing address, credit card number and expiration date when a user:

• Purchase a product or service
• Register for events on the WEBM Network
• Sign up for a WEBM e-mail newsletter

The WEBM Network contains hyperlinks to third party and advertiser’s Web sites. The WEBM privacy practices does not apply to such sites.  Plus, if the WEBM Network sells a company, asset or if any of the companies are acquired by another company the user’s information may be transferred to the new party without notification.  

Protection starts with the user

As I read the privacy policy statement, I noticed contradictions in the use of information gathered by the WEBM Network.  For example, it starts stating that WEBM “only uses your IP address and personal information for internal use” but later reads “may share IP addresses and personal information with third parties.”  WEBM maintains a no-spam policy agreeing not to sell, rent, or otherwise give your e-mail address to a third-party, without your consent. There are other inconsistencies protected by the phrase, “except as stated elsewhere within this privacy policy.”

Ultimately, you are solely responsible for maintaining the secrecy of your personal information when online.  By sharing your personal information through e-mail, discussion lists, or elsewhere, you are putting that data at risk to be collected and used by others. 

Week 12 - Omicron Lambda Alpha Chapter FAQs

Welcome to the OLA Chapter web site! We are the premier Washington, D.C. alumni chapter with an established commitment to promoting the betterment of the community through education, political involvement, social awareness, and economic and professional development.

What type of alumni chapter is OLA?

In 1952, OLA was chartered as the first intermediate chapter established for brothers attending professional schools at Howard University.  In 1975, the Fraternity eliminated the intermediate designation once given to chapters—making OLA an alumni chapter since that time. 

How can I contact OLA?

OLA can be reached via email at info@ola1906.org or by mail at:

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Omicron Lambda Alpha Chapter
P.O. Box 77422

Washington, D.C. 20013

Does OLA accept speakers to visit your meetings?

Yes, occasionally OLA invites speakers to make presentations during the general chapter meetings. All dates and topics must be approved by the chapter executive board. Please send all inquires to Bro. Dameon Proctor, chapter president. 

Do you offer any mentoring programs for young boys?

Yes, OLA offers the following development programs to teenage boys living in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area:

• Project Alpha
• Boys 2 Men Conference
• Distinguished Gentlemen’s Club (DGC) 
• The Eastern Region Leadership Development Institute (LDI)

For more information on each program, visit OLA’s education activities page.

Do you partner with other organizations?

Yes, OLA works with other Alpha Phi Alpha chapters and local organizations to make a greater impact in our community.  The OLA chapter contacts are:

• Bro. Mukhtar Raqib, social chair - parties, happy hours, social events
• Bro. Vincent Walford, education activities chair - leadership and mentoring activities
• Bro. Jacquay Henderson, community outreach chair - community service activities/events

I am a member of Alpha Phi Alpha, how do I join the OLA chapter?

Any alumni brother of Alpha Phi Alpha can become a member of a local alumni chapter.  For more information, please contact Bro. Jeff Johnson, membership & reclamation chair.

I am not a member of alpha phi alpha, how do I join the OLA chapter?

Men interested in joining Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. through OLA should contact Bro. Jeff Johnson, membership & reclamation chair and visit the fraternity's web site for more information on becoming a member. 

What if I already paid my annual grand tax to the General Office?

In order to be considered fully financial, you must pay grand tax and chapter membership dues.  You can pay chapter dues online using PayPal on our web site or by mailing in a check or money order payable to Omicron Lambda Alpha.  Be sure to include your membership number.  Then mail the payment to:

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Omicron Lambda Alpha Chapter
P.O. Box 77422

Washington, D.C. 20013

Can I pay membership dues online?

Yes, online payments are accepted using PayPal on our web site. Be sure to select the appropriate payment amount and include your membership number.

Can I pay membership dues via mail?

Yes, be sure to make the check or money order payable to Omicron Lambda Alpha and include your membership number.  Then mail the payment to:

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Omicron Lambda Alpha Chapter
P.O. Box 77422

Washington, D.C. 20013

Do you have a calendar of events?

Yes, OLA’s chapter calendar lists general chapter meetings, retreats, events, and community service projects.

Can I follow OLA online on any social media web sites?

Yes, OLA is on Twitter and Facebook.  The chapter sends out news feeds on Twitter to notify our supporters of upcoming events or changes affecting event dates, times and/or locations.  On Facebook, the chapter does the same with the addition of uploading event photos, polling supporters and offering group discussions.

Do have more questions?

For more information contact Bro. Alvin Creswell, history & public relations chair

Week 11 - U.S. Deficit Proposal Could Affect the Smithsonian: Admission Fees are Proposed, Again

The 164 year tradition of the Smithsonian Institute offering free admission to its visitors could come to an end if Congress approves the proposed budget cuts.

by Carl Williams

WASHINGTON, D.C.—On November 10, the draft proposal submitted by the National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform recommended reducing the Smithsonian’s 2015 budget by $225 million. The Smithsonian Institute was suggested to charge admission fees at its 19 museums and the National Zoo, which are all free, to make up for the difference in funding. 

Erskine Bowles and Alan Simpson, the commission co-chairs, defends the recommendation saying, “Charging $7.50 per visitor is reasonable when compared to several notable private museums in the United States who charge from $10 to $20 per visitor, and even more for zoos.”

Smithsonian visitors, Neketa Johnson, Kenneth Thomas and Jennifer Clark, while exiting the National History Museum, said they all feared that adding a cost to admission would deter many tourists from visiting the national treasures and reduce the number of schools trips to the area.

“When I need to take a break from studies, the Smithsonian is always an option for a broke student.  They are located in a great area, around the National Mall, which is enjoyed by local visitors, as well as, tourists,” said Johnson. 

Thomas has lived in the area for about a year.  “I thought the Smithsonian was just one museum,” Thomas said.  “Having twelve free options, all within walking distance from my apartment, is enough encouragement to get me to visit more”  Now with more leisure time, thanks to a job change, he said he looks forward to exploring the museums, festivals and other activities that the area has to offer.

Clark adds, “Many of my childhood memories with my family include our visits to the museums, while growing up in the Washington, D.C.  It’s a tradition that I hope they continue,” pointing towards her daughter and son.  She live in Tennessee.  

Admission fees have been considered before by the Smithsonian.

In 1995, the New York Times reported a House panel proposed to cut $32 million from the Smithsonian’s budget of $371 million.  These cuts would have suspended the construction of the National Museum of the American Indian, the extension of the National Air and Space Museum at Dulles Airport as well as additions to the National Zoo.

In 2006, Rep. James P. Moran Jr. (D-Va.) urged the Smithsonian Institution to begin charging $1 per person admission when a Smithsonian official said the complex is crumbling because there is not enough money for critical repairs.

According to the Washington Post, Sheila Burke, the Smithsonian’s deputy secretary and chief operating officer, said the idea had been considered and rejected three times by the Smithsonian Board of Regents.  The last discussion was in 2002.

She also noted that four museums are legally forbidden from charging. The laws that created the National Museum of the American Indian, the National Portrait Gallery and the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden prohibit admission fees. In addition, Charles Lang Freer's will, which provided for the creation of the Smithsonian's Freer Gallery of Art, stated there could never be a charge.

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

The story would have a national audience since many tourist take advantage of the free admission when visiting the area

The story could include pictures of the museums & interviewees, a chart listing the number of visitors per year and the number of visitors who enter more than one museum in one day, a timeline listing all of the attempts to add a fee in the past.

My sources included:

• The Draft of the $200 Billions in Illustrative Savings Report from the President’s deficit commission on the FiscalCommission.gov web site.
• The Smithsonian web site, which had a response to the proposed funding cuts.
• Three visitors exiting Smithsonian museums, who are listed within the article.
• A Smithsonian worker, who wished to remain nameless told me about past attempts to impose fees.

I called and emailed Linda St. Thomas, Chief Spokesperson of the Smithsonian Institution.  My attempts to get a response were unsuccessful.  Her contact info said ‘“or media” only but I decided to give it a try anyway.  My questions for her would have been:

1. Do you think a required payment will affect the number of visitors to the museums?
2. Will it affect other areas of the Smithsonian? (food court restaurants, shops, etc.) 
3. How much of the Smithsonian’s annual budget is covered by our tax dollars? 
4. How long has the Smithsonian been no cost to visitors?
5. Have there been recent suggestions to add admission fees?
6. How long have you held your current position?

My questions for the Smithsonian visitors (Neketa Johnson, Kenneth Thomas and Jennifer Clark) included:

1. What is your name and age?
2. Is this your first visit to a Smithsonian museum?
3. How far did you travel to get here?
4. Will a required payment deter you from making future visits?
5. If you are willing to pay what is your limit?
6. How many museums do you plan to visit today?
7. What else do you enjoy about the museums other than the free cost?

Week 10 - Twitter Blog Questions

Lessons learned or major takeaway(s)

The twitter experience was not that bad.  The limit of 140 characters did make me think about the important points of what I was trying to say.  I was forced to eliminate words on almost every tweet.  

I also had to type quickly.  The mobile device being used did make a difference on my performance.  I was uploading comments using my BlackBerry instead of my iPad.  I tend to type much slower on a touchscreen.  I didn’t know the lecture would be in a dark room due to the presentation being projected.  The smaller screen made it easier to conceal the extra light, not to disrupt the presenter or those sitting adjacent to me.

How you think twitter can be best used

Twitter is good outlet to connect with people through communication streams.   It can be used to notify individuals of updates on a product, project, online store or event.

How you think it should definitely NOT be used

It is not set up for social networking.  Your tweets are not directed towards one individual. Everyone receives the notifications. 

Here is the Twitter feed

• Waiting for the start of the #FotoWeekDC lecture of Andy Adams: Digital Media + Photography Online. http://twitpic.com/34sm63
• Andy is editor+publisher of #FlakPhoto, provides a platform to showcase new work, books and galleries to a web-based photography audience.
• The lecture explores the intersection of online publishing, social media, and community collaborations through the web.
• Andy credits the increase of online communities to computer ownership, advancements of mobile devices and interest in social media.
• Andy feels a collaborative effort benefits from having multiple people having a stake in the success and survival of the project.
• Andy says the internet is fostering the growth of a global online photo community at an increasingly rapid pace.
• Andy shares how photographers are no longer just image-makers. You must be promoters and editors to be more vested in a projects success.
• Those who fear to display images online can benefit by having a direct connection to those interested in purchasing/selling work. -Andy
• Andy is not concerned about the role of the amateur web publisher. "Quality work tends to rise to the top. We all start as amateurs."
• Other photographers in the lecture share that not having a web site resulted in curators telling not taking them seriously.
• Andy calls traditional photobooks analog publications. Doesn't think they will disappear but more will use digital media to promote books.
• He ends,its hard to predict where technology is heading,its clear more are connecting w/ blogs & social media to increase collabs & discovery
• The lecture was attended by a diverse group of photographers, who added to the discussion with personal experiences.

Week 10 - Wikipedia entry for West Charlotte High School in Charlotte, NC

West Charlotte High School (also called WC or Dub-C) is a comprehensive high school in the University Park neighborhood of Charlotte, North Carolina. The school is state funded.

The marching band is one of the best known extracurricular activities at West Charlotte. They have performed at a bowl game every year since 2004, when they debuted at the Sugar Bowl.

WC offers many extracurricular activities to encourage students involvement in the school’s community outside of the normal classroom setting.  Those activities include:

Art

• Band
• Chorus
• Dance
• Drawing/Painting
• Photography

Languages

• French
• Spanish

Sports

• Baseball
• Basketball
• Cheerleading
• Football
• Soccer
• Softball
• Swimming
• Tennis
• Track and Field
• Volleyball

Other Special Interests Programs

• Academic contests
• Community service
• Science and technology
• Yearbook

Mission Statement

To promote and support student learning in a safe, diverse learning community where students, staff, and parents actively commit to academic excellence and personal responsibility.

International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme

Since April 2005, West Charlotte has been an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School offering the IB Diploma Programme. 

The IB Diploma Programme is an academically challenging and balanced programme of education with final examinations that prepares students, aged 16 to 19, for higher education and life beyond. The programme is taught over two years and has gained recognition from universities world-wide.

IB Diploma Programme students study six courses at higher level or standard level. Students select one subject from each of the following groups:

• Group 1: Language A1
• Group 2: Second Language
• Group 3: Individuals and societies
• Group 4: Experimental sciences
• Group 5: Mathematics and computer science
• Group 6: The arts 

Performance

Due to low test scores on standardized testing, it was feared the school would be closed.  During the 2006-2007 school year, WC had the third worst performance in the Mecklenburg county--surpassed only by Harding and Independence. The school has remained open, in part because of the response of its active alumni.

In 2007, Local pastors in the Charlotte area, officials at Johnson C. Smith University, and Charlotte mayor Anthony Fox formed the West Charlotte Mentoring Coalition, a collaborative effort to eliminate the 50 percent drop-out rate by providing mentoring and tutoring support for ninth graders at West Charlotte High School.

The group placed each of the 550 incoming freshman with a mentor. West Charlotte principal Shelton Jeffries said the graduation rate at his school is a serious concern. He believes the work of the coalition will be powerful in reversing those trends by positively influencing the lives of young people.

Students Against Violence Everywhere (SAVE)

In 1989, a West Charlotte student named Alex Orange was killed while trying to break up a fight at a party. His grieving classmates gathered and vowed to organize against violence in Alex's memory. The group formed Students Against Violence Everywhere (SAVE), with the vision that all students will be able to attend a school that is safe, secure, free of fear, and conducive to learning. Their signature color is orange, a reflection of Alex's surname.

SAVE members participated in local non-violence marches and the Carolina Carrousel Parade.  During the school year, they would visit elementary and junior high schools, as well as, television and radio shows to perform skits showing how to act out non-violence solutions to problems.  

Due to SAVE’s efforts, their was a decrease in the number of violent incidents, weapons found in the school and the excursion rate of students.  This sparked an increase of chapters being started at other local high schools.

In 1992, SAVE received the 875th Daily Point of Light award by President George H.W. Bush.  The award honors individuals and volunteer groups that have made a commitment to connect Americans through service to help meet critical needs in their communities.

Over the past 20 years, SAVE has grown from one chapter in Charlotte, North Carolina, to over 1,800 SAVE chapters with more than 200,000 members across the U.S. Today, SAVE serves youth in elementary schools, middle schools, high schools, colleges, and community youth-serving organizations in 46 states and several foreign countries. SAVE is coordinated by a North Carolina-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the National Association of Students Against Violence Everywhere, but it is still led by students, for students.

Athletics

West Charlotte stadium is named Jack Martin Stadium.  WC is known throughout the Charlotte area for its athletic programs. Their rivals are Independence High School and Harding University High School.

State 4-A Championships

• Men's Basketball 1986, 1991, 1992, 1999
• Football 1985, 1991, 1993, 1995
• Men's Track 1995, 1999, 2003
• Men's Indoor Track 1999
• Volleyball 1997, 2000
• Women's Basketball 2008, 2009

Week 10 - Wireless Access Points in Chapel Hill

Week 9 - Everyday is a Holiday, With You

Distant Relatives

The first time I heard the song, Everyday is a Holiday (With You) by Esthero, I was driving in Kinston, N.C., with my goddaughter/cousin, Chiara sitting in the back seat. It reminded me of the first time I saw her.  She was 6 months old.  Her parents were moving from Germany to the U.S.  They stayed with me for a week in Charlotte, N.C.  All of my free time was spent with Chiara.  

Every time, I hear that song it takes me back to our first encounter.

It has also been a shameful three years since I have seen Chiara and her younger brother, Luca.  They now reside overseas in Germany. One month ago, I had a visit from their older sister, Verena.  It was her first time visiting Washington, D.C.  That is when I realized that I am long over due for a visit to see our relatives living abroad.  So, I purchased a plane ticket to arrive when the kids are on fall break from school.    

Destination Germany

Oct 12 -- 10:02 pm Eastern Time (12-hour clock)

The time has come to finally venture outside of the states. I am at Washington Dulles International airport waiting to board my flight. Tonight, I will fall asleep on a plane at Dulles Airport and wake up in Paris. 

Flight is Now Boarding

Oct 12 -- 10:46 pm Eastern Time (12-hour clock)

Air France flight 027 is now seating passengers at gate A26.  There is a long line of passengers and I am at the end of the line.  I have been awake since 5:00 am and is looking forward to closing my eyes.  I am sitting in seat 37A, the window seat. 

Ouah! (Yes!)

Oct 13 -- 10:53 Central European Time (24-hour clock)

I got my first stamp in my passport! [Pause for the celebration dance]  People in line laughed at me and I really don’t care.

My first flight has safely touched-down at Paris Charles-de-Gaulle airport.  There is a little over an hour layover until my next flight.  Lets see how much of the French language that I’ve regained since college.  I am holding short conversations with the airport staff as I move from gate E2 to gate G2. So far, so good.

Nuremberg, Germany

Oct 13 -- 13:43 Central European Time (24-hour clock)

As I exit the airport in Nuremberg, Germany, I am greeted by Verena, Chiara and Luca.  The long flight was a small price to pay to get a long awaited hug from the kids and to hear Chiara say, “It is so cool that you are here!” I am the first family member from the states to visit them in Germany.  

We are heading in town to view the Kaiserburg castle.  Nuremberg is very bicycle-friendly.  There are bike lanes everywhere.  The walk ways are even wider to accommodate pedestrians and cyclists. I wish I could bring my bicycle along for a visit.  As we head back to the car, I walk upon a sculpture (below, left) that resembles one that is located in uptown, Charlotte, NC (below, right).  I wonder if there is a connection between the two?

Wernberg-Koblitz, Germany

Oct 13 -- 18:43 Central European Time (24-hour clock)

I just finished speeding on the German autobahn from Nuremberg to Wernberg-Koblitz. The view is so beautiful! The trees are rich with fall colors.  The fastest speed I reached was 210 kph (130 mph).  The fast lane belongs to the speeders.  The average speed by drivers seemed to be about 130 kph (80 mph).  

All of the exit signs say Ausfahrt.  How large is this city?  Actually, the English translations for Ausfahrt is exit.  You must know where you are going when driving on the autobahn.  All exits do not tell you your location.  

I love my fellow North Carolinians!

Oct 13 -- 20:05 Central European Time (24-hour clock)

They are having a cookout to welcome me to Germany at Rick’s house, my uncle’s best-friend.  Rick is from Snow Hill, N.C., a town located 15 miles outside of my hometown, Kinston, N.C.  It was great to end the night with a bit of southern hospitality.

Let’s Take a Walk

Oct 14 -- 11:12 am Central European Time (24-hour clock)

My uncle has to work and Verena lives in Nuremberg, so during the day it was just me, the kids and the dogs, Shortie and Meanie.  We decided take a walk through the neighborhood.  The town is so clean and all of the buildings look freshly painted.  

No Cameras, Please

Oct 15 -- 20:07 Central European Time (24-hour clock)

Chiara wants me to sing the Pussycats Dolls "Dontcha" with her in karaoke while Luca records it with my video camera. It is not going to happen!  My family is full of comedians and I’m not giving them a video to display at the family reunion. 

Regensberg, Germany

Oct 16 --  22:46 Central European Time (24-hour clock)

We just enjoyed a rainy night in Regensburg.  The continuous row-homes and cobblestone walk ways are beautiful!  The cobblestone adds a nice texture to the scenery.  Normally, I would not have me SLR camera out in the rain.  If my lens has water damage, it is well worth it for these pictures.

Prague, Czech Republic

Oct 17 --  23:00 Central European Time (24-hour clock)

Today, we took a two-hour drive to Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic.  This was my favorite location thus far.  My uncle and I, took a long walk up up the steep hills to the Prague castle (shown below).  I am glad we did not bring the kids.  The night was spent shopping for souvenirs and then bar hopping.  I have never drank so much alcohol in one night.  We went to Coyote Prague, Hard Rock Cafe, Harley’s Bar, and Bombay Cocktail Bar.  I am glad I submitted this weeks assignment earlier today.

Annoying the Sleepy Dogs

Oct 18 --  12:00 Central European Time (24-hour clock)

Meanie and Shortie are twin long-haired chihuahuas.  At birth they were inseparable.  My uncle refused to break them up, so he brought both of them home.  They are the laziest dogs I have ever been around.  All they want to do is eat, hump a stuffed animal, then sleep.  Luca is a major disruption to their day.  He doesn’t accept it when the dogs don’t want to play.  When they retreat into their cage to escape him, he follows them in.  

The Younger Brother Wins One

Oct 19 --  10:46 Central European Time (24-hour clock)

I love our daily walks through the neighborhood.  I am constantly taking pictures. We walk up to the store to get some snacks to enjoy as we watch the movie, Wall-E.  When we returned to the house, Luca just grabs my can of Pringles and says, “I want some.”  I snatch it back and tells him, “That was rude!  You ask nicely first and then wait for the person to give you some.”  Chiara runs over and joins in the conversation by adding, “That’s right!  He always does that.  You should say please first if you want something.”  After he asked politely, I gave Luca a handful of chips and Chiara says to him, “Luca, give me some.”  He turns to his sister and replies, “No, first you must say please.”  The look on her face was priceless!

The Sad Goodbye

Oct 20 --  4:46 Central European Time (24-hour clock)

It was hard to leave this morning.  I can still see that sad look on Chiara’s face as she walked down the stairs to say, “Goodbye.”  I am going to miss them all!  I committed to making annual visits until they are old enough to fly to the states by themselves.

Departing Flights

Oct 20 --  8:56 Central European Time (24-hour clock)

I barely made my first flight this morning.  There was a long line to get through airport security.  I’m now on a layover in Paris again.  There are two flights returning to the U.S. this morning.  My flight is on-time for departure to Washington Dulles airport.  At a gate adjacent to mine, the flight to New York has been cancelled due to a strike by airport staff.  Needless to say, those passengers are upset.

Welcome Home

Oct 20 --  4:05 pm Eastern Time (12-hour clock)

I am back home and headed straight to the grocery store to stock up on food.  On my shopping list is bread.  I picked up the usually loaf of honey wheat bread.  I stare at it for several seconds and place it back on the shelf.  It only took one week to spoil me. I couldn’t buy it.  I want the fresh bread from the bakery that I have enjoyed for the past week.  

The Retrospective

This was my first time visiting a location that measured distances in the metric system and the temperature in celsius.  I adjusted the settings on my electronic devices to the local settings while on vacation to get the full experience of visiting the countries.  The money conversions benefits americans in the Czech Republic.  The US dollar is currently equal to 17.6277 Czech Republic korunas compared to only 0.7156 euros.  

It has been about a year and half since I have taken an extended vacation away from the office.  I definitely needed this break.  I can see myself living in Germany for several years.  Of course, I’m saying this without experiencing the cold winters.

I am looking forward to returning in 2011!