“My philosophy is that each kid in my classes is worth my time and effort,” said Mark Weinert, biology and chemistry teacher at Norwell High School (NHS). “I give them my best attention even if I don't feel well or they don't earn great grades.” Weinert has taught biology and chemistry at NHS since 1988.... Continue Reading →
I was the keynote speaker at the Canterbury Book Fair
The third grade class taught by Nancy Vacanti listened as I talked with them about writing children’s books. The second grade class taught by Tom Meyers asked questions about my children’s books. The Bistro lunch included approximately 100 parents and educators. This has been a fantastic week! On Wed. I was the keynote speaker at... Continue Reading →
Book talks with school children is great fun!
On March 30, 2011, I had the great opportunity to speak to several school classes in my area about being a writer. This was a special treat because not only did I meet new friends, I was able to visit with some old friends. At Ossian Elementary School I spoke to 100 third graders... Continue Reading →
Traveling the world is in Andrew Stuck’s blood
For Andrew Stuck of Markle growing up as a missionary child in Ecuador meant living with what most Americans would consider primitive conditions. “Our use of electricity was hit and miss,” said Stuck. “We had a generator for backup and were miles from a supermarket. Our family traveled to Quito to stock up on... Continue Reading →
Penny Gay — teacher with a desire to serve
While writing a weekly column about a small town in a rural community, I've learned to keep my ears open for possible leads. I also ask former subjects of stories for hints of anything or anyone they might know who would be good to write about. This story came as a result of a lead... Continue Reading →
Laurie Gray, author of Summer Sanctuary
I have the privilege of knowing Laurie Gray, award-winning author of Summer Sanctuary. This book has earned many favorable reviews. Look for this book in your library. If it is not available from your library, ask your librarian to order this book. You’ll enjoy it. *** Sometimes the idea for a book is right... Continue Reading →
Actress and singer Vickie Fuller-Kibellus
According to Markle resident Vickie Fuller-Kibellus, she began singing professionally at age two. “I sang at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Uniondale where my family still attends,” she said. As a student at Norwell High School (NHS), Fuller-Kibellus joined all of the choirs and plays, a practice she continued at Huntington College. Surprisingly, Fuller-Kibellus chose... Continue Reading →
Radio interview of Indonesian craft/recipe book
Recipe and Craft Guide to Indonesia Selamat datang! Welcome to the land of Indonesia! After my daughter, Amanda, moved to Indonesia to teach in 2008, she began bringing home beautiful crafts from this country in Southeast Asia. She also cooked delicious recipes of food dishes that are eaten in Indonesia. When my children’s book editor... Continue Reading →
Beverly Lewis –Author of Amish fiction
A few years ago I interviewed Beverly Lewis by phone for a newspaper article about her upcoming appearance at a local store for a book signing. She was very kind and articulate. A note from her regarding the resulting article is posted at the bottom. When, in the early 1900s, the grandmother of New York... Continue Reading →
Joyce Accavallo, Teaching with Dedication
One benefit of writing a column is the opportunity to meet influential people in our community. I consider teachers to be some of the most influential. The job they do cannot be underestimated. This profile of a first-grade teacher, Joyce Accavallo, is a good example. This appeared in the Ossian Sun Riser newspaper. Joyce Accavallo shares... Continue Reading →