Have a Great Winter Break!

Happy Holidays, Friends!

We wish you a merry Christmas and a happy new year!

We hope that you have a very healthy holiday and come back to classes refreshed next year.

Classes resume on Zoom beginning January 5, 2023

A Couple Things (to Do)

Indianapolis Symphonic Choir presents Festival of Carols at the Palladium and at Clowes Hall Explore the program and learn more. 

Find out more about the salt caves and halotherapy in Indianapolis from this Current in Carmel article. Or skip the middleman and go straight to the source: Indianapolis Salt Cave. 

Class Notes Lagnappe

American Sign Language

Signing Santa This very special story shows how deaf children can meet and talk to Santa.

Kids Conversation 

We read a talked about dissolving salt in water and the applications of salty water. Our friend introduced an amazing answer that is a car that uses salt water from Subaru. Read more about it in this article in Ideahack. This article from The Good Human expands the discussion. 

The Twenty-Sixth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States

Reduction of Voting Age

Amdt26.1Voting Age of Eighteen

Section 1 Eighteen Years of Age

The right of citizens of the United States, who are eighteen years of age or older, to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of age.

Section 2 Enforcement

The Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation.

abridged: shortened

application: putting something into use

lagnappe: something extra; a bonus or little gift

middleman: someone or something that serves as an intermediator between two parties; someone that goesg between 

Anticipating Christmas and Weekend Celebrating

 Fa la la la la, Friends!

Advent season begins December 1. People like to celebrate with calendars that contain small gifts or meditative readings. The idea is to anticipate and celebrate a little bit every day!

Come In Person

Just come. You don't have to participate in all the activities. Mostly, we want to say hello and share season's greetings with all!

• A White Elephant Gift is something you don't want any more. It could be funny or practical. Wrap your gift and participate in this fun holiday tradition.
• Exodus Refugee service provides help to people new to Indianapolis and the United States. No matter when people come, they are given a winter coat (you know how changeable the weather is here!) Bring a gently used coat (any size, any gender) to donate to warm our new neighbors. Exodus Refugee Immigration | Building a New Life in Indiana

American Sign Language: Tuesday, 5:00-6:00 PM EST, Zoom

We sang along and reviewed and learned words in the Christmas Carol. Joy to the World ASL - YouTube

December 13: Join us as we finish learning Joy to the World. This is our last class of the year!

American English: Thursday, 9:00-11:00 AM EST, Zoom

We talked about manufacturing. 

We wrapped up car accidents and liability. Being confident in pronouncing the terms and language of an accident help when under the stress of an unexpected situation (like an accident). As we read the content in the article, we polished our pronunciation and practiced reporting using different grammar tenses.

We read through the 1000+ Most Common Words in English from A-Z • 7ESL. Again, the value of this exercise is to recognize common words, easily listen and say common words, increase your confidence.

January 5: Back to work on Zoom!

American Accent Training: Thursday, 9:30-11:30 AM EST, Zoom

Aside from the important work of perfecting our American Accent, the Accent class perfected some holiday vocabulary!

January 5: Back to work on Zoom!

Kid's Conversation: Friday, 4:30-5:00 PM EST, Zoom

We are taking a virtual field trip to French Lick Friday. Hopefully Zoom cooperates.

December 16: Our last class. Decorate a Christmas cookie and talk about how you celebrate the winter holidays.

January 6: Back to work on Zoom.

Welcome December!

Ho ho ho, Friends.

We are officially in the Christmas season. Christmas in the United States is both a secular and a religious holiday. Look for opportunities to experience Christmas in the United States. 

Ending the Year with International Friends

December 8: the last class of the year

December 15: Party in Person! 

Meet-Up for a Party and Practice American Holiday English

10:00 AM-12:00 PM

Cornerstone Lutheran Church: 4850 East Main Street, Carmel 

• Bring a snack to share.
• Bring a White Elephant gift to exchange.
• Bring a new or gently used winter coat to donate to Exodus Refugee Center

Twenty-Fifth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States

Amdt25.1Presidential Vacancy and Disability

Section 1 Presidential Vacancy

In case of the removal of the President from office or of his death or resignation, the Vice President shall become President.

Section 2 Vice President Vacancy

Whenever there is a vacancy in the office of the Vice President, the President shall nominate a Vice President who shall take office upon confirmation by a majority vote of both Houses of Congress.

Section 3 Declaration by President

Whenever the President transmits to the President pro tempore of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives his written declaration that he is unable to discharge the powers and duties of his office, and until he transmits to them a written declaration to the contrary, such powers and duties shall be discharged by the Vice President as Acting President.

Section 4 Declaration by Vice President and Others

Whenever the Vice President and a majority of either the principal officers of the executive departments or of such other body as Congress may by law provide, transmit to the President pro tempore of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives their written declaration that the President is unable to discharge the powers and duties of his office, the Vice President shall immediately assume the powers and duties of the office as Acting President.Thereafter, when the President transmits to the President pro tempore of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives his written declaration that no inability exists, he shall resume the powers and duties of his office unless the Vice President and a majority of either the principal officers of the executive department or of such other body as Congress may by law provide, transmit within four days to the President pro tempore of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives their written declaration that the President is unable to discharge the powers and duties of his office. Thereupon Congress shall decide the issue, assembling within forty-eight hours for that purpose if not in session. If the Congress, within twenty-one days after receipt of the latter written declaration, or, if Congress is not in session, within twenty-one days after Congress is required to assemble, determines by two-thirds vote of both Houses that the President is unable to discharge the powers and duties of his office, the Vice President shall continue to discharge the same as Acting President; otherwise, the President shall resume the powers and duties of his office.

 

 

Amrican Sign Language: Tuesday, 5:00-6:00 PM EST, Zoom

December 6: Singing is a big part of the Christmas season. Let's sing and sign Silent Night.

American English: Thursday, 9:00-11:00 AM EST, Zoom

We had conversation about traffic accidents and how to handle the situation in the United States. Reading aloud allows checking and correcting pronunciation. Reading aloud focuses attention on the words, but not the content. When practicing at home, read silently for content. Read aloud for sound. 

December 8: We have our last class of the year on Zoom continue and talk about liability and G-L words

Car Accident - Definition, Examples, Cases, Processes (legaldictionary.net)

1000+ Most Common Words in English from A-Z • 7ESL

American Accent Training: Thursday, 9:30-11:30 AM EST, Zoom

This week the 

December 8: Last class of the year on Zoom.

Kid's Conversation: Friday, 4:30-5:00 PM EST, Zoom

December 9: Holiday events in the United States include fun field trips and minivacations. A very popular event is to ride The Polar Express. 

Let's talk about the wonderful book The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg.

The Polar Express - read aloud - YouTube

discharge: perform 

Happy Thanksgiving!

Hello, Friends!

No classes or meetings this week! We ended the holiday week with impromptu cancellation of our American Sign Language and our Kid's Conversation classes. Our American English and American Accent Classes met at Cornerstone Lutheran Church in Carmel and feasted! 

Thanksgiving Holiday

Thanksgiving kicks off the holiday and feasting season. In the United States, families and friends gather and celebrate. This holiday is the most traveled holiday. This year, coming off of the pandemic, promises to return to that tradition.

Black Friday is the day following Thanksgiving. Tradition is that the merchants move from being in the red (loss on the balance sheet in accounting) to black (making a profit) with holiday sales. Look for great bargains. 

Christmas decorations are going up in houses and around town, but in the United States we don't officially start celebrating until after we clean up Thanksgiving dinner.

Thanksgiving Day Must Do's 

• Watch the Macy's Day Parade on TV.
• Sneak pumpkin pie for breakfast.
• Run a Turkey Trot (or not and have some hot cider and start cooking)
• Enjoy a cocktail or mocktail while you cook.
• After dinner, turn on the football games and watch with your eyes closed.
• Toss a football in the yard with the kids.
• Forty-five minutes after cleaning up from Thanksgiving dinner, pull out the leftovers for snacking.
• Enjoy time around the table with family and friends. 
• Don't get mad about religion or politics talk. Listen. You will learn.
• Instigate card games or board games after dinner.

Twenty-Fourth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States

The history on this one is very interesting! Voting rights are very important to American citizens.

Abolition of Poll Tax

Amdt24.1 Historical Background on Abolition of the Poll Tax

Amdt24.2 Doctrine and Practice of Abolition of the Poll Tax

Section 1

The right of citizens of the United States to vote in any primary or other election for President or Vice President, for electors for President or Vice President, or for Senator or Representative in Congress, shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or any State by reason of failure to pay any poll tax or other tax.

Section 2

The Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation.

impromptu: unplanned

instigate: cause something to happen

kicks off: starts

toss: throw; play

Flying Through November

 Hello Friends,

It snowed here in the middle of Carmel. There was a big shift in temperatures with ALOT of snow (following 70-degree Fahrenheit days). We are preparing for our November in-person meet up, a Friendsgiving to celebrate Thanksgiving. This meet-up helps us learn about traditions as well as gives us the opportunity to socialize and have those important one-on-one conversations.

Join us at Cornerstone Lutheran Church. Enter Door 6. Follow the signs. The hands-on cooking demonstration begins at 10:30 in the gym kitchen. Feasting begins at 11:30 in the High School Classrooms.

Interpretation or Translation or Both

This week we had great discussions that were often around finding the right words to express what we want to say. Translation often includes interpretation. There is a saying that meaning gets lost in translation. Sometimes there just are not the words in one language to express what is meant in another language. People short cut by using the word in the original language (lots of words are included in the lexicon of a language this way), but even then, a more detailed description often has to follow. If you have an interpreter, you may get the gist of what is being said rather than the detailed meaning. We found that most people "get" 80 percent when they are not somehow emotionally involved when they reflect on what they heard. When someone is emotionally involved, they report understanding only about 40 percent. Our expectations color what we hear or add to our confusion. When we ask a question about how our children are performing in school, teachers in the United States tend to tell you in academic terms or standards rather than social standards.

Our Friends recommend that everyone listen for him or herself. If you do use a translator, realize that the dialect or the communication may not mirror your intent. Prepare for your meeting by listing all of your questions or what you want to know. Write everything out in English so if you "get stuck" you can show your notes. Be prepared to answer questions, yourself. When you do not understand, you can say: please repeat what you said, please slow down, please explain what you mean by [fill in the word or words]. 

Twenty Third Amendment to the Constitution of the United States

Presidential Electors for the District of Columbia

Amdt23.1Historical Background on Presidential Electors for the District of Columbia

Section 1

The District constituting the seat of Government of the United States shall appoint in such manner as the Congress may direct: A number of electors of President and Vice President equal to the whole number of Senators and Representatives in Congress to which the District would be entitled if it were a State, but in no event more than the least populous State; they shall be in addition to those appointed by the States, but they shall be considered, for the purposes of the election of President and Vice President, to be electors appointed by a State; and they shall meet in the District and perform such duties as provided by the twelfth article of amendment.

Section 2

The Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation.

American Sign Language: Tuesday, 5:00-6:00 PM, Zoom

Normally, it is too soon to decorate for Christmas or to sing/play Christmas songs....but, when we thought about how to "sing" a Christmas hymn/carol seemed to be just the right thing (and this was before the snowy day!). This class likes to share with each other through text chatting. We decided on the song Joy to the World. We struggled with that fine line between literal translation and interpretation. We discovered that a direct translation was not really a challenge: we knew all but two or three of the words. Our challenge was in choosing how to sign "the Lord is come". ASL does not have forms of be. The intent of "Is come" tells that the message that Jesus continues to "come" to the world. We chose to fingerspell "is" but we had a great discussion about translating and interpreting.

Joy to the world

The Lord is come

Let earth receive her King.

Let every heart

Prepare him room

and heaven and nature sing

and heaven and nature sing

and heaven and heaven and nature sing 

• Joy to the World (traditional words and music)
• Joy to the World ASL with We Play Along (how to sign)
• Joy to the World by CODAS (this one is a favorite: the spirit of caroling and ASL is beautiful)

December 14: Sing/Sign Silent Night:

Silent night
Holy night
All is calm
All is bright
Round yon virgin mother and child
Holy infant so tender and mild
Sleep in heavenly peace
Sleep in heavenly peace

American English Classes: Thursday, 9:00-10:00 AM, Zoom

We had a great class with important discussion about parent/teacher conferences. We talked about the expectations for education and progress for children in American schools and contrasted these with our home countries. We found that translators can be available to help at these meetings, but discussions proved that most people can "follow" the conversations, but that we are nervous, and our English words don't always come to us in time. We also observed that this is not uncommon no matter how familiar we are with the language. When our heart or emotions are involved, words escape us.

December 1: Review vocabulary G-L. and prepare for car accident scenarios.

American Accent Training: Thursday, 9:30-11:30, Zoom

Two topics: Bill's Tip and the sounds of "gh". The graphics say it all!

December 1: Back to Zoom

Kid's Conversation: Friday, 4:30-5:00 PM, Zoom

We shared the mashed potato sculpture. Making the mashed potatoes was not too hard, but as a material to sculpt, it was not that easy. Baking the potato sculpture afterwards, made the sculpture taste even better.

We talked about health and life.

November 18: Meet with us! We miss you if you have not been in a while.

color: influence

decided on: choose

graphics: visual representations/pictures

lexicon: words in a language

say it all: 

words escape me/us: you don't know what to say

Hello, Friends.

In Indiana we are looking at another beautiful week of weather. Local Friends, be sure to get out and enjoy it while you still can! 

U.S. Friends, I hope that you enjoyed the sunlight this morning and gaining that hour of sleep we lost last Spring.

You Are Invited

Plan for our next meet-up: a feast! Learn to cook traditional dishes for 10:30, start feasting at 11:30. Bring your Friends and a favorite feasting dish to share. RSVP for more information: indyintlfriends@gmail.com

We Talked About

There are so many interesting topics and conversations we have during our classes. Each week we hilight some of the ideas. This week was no different. Here is a potpourri.

Parenting:

• Helicopter parent
• Tiger mom
• Soccer mom

We love watching Sci Fi (Science Fiction) pronounced SIGH fie as a genre.

We looked at time zones and talked about the impact of Daylight Savings Time versus Standard Time on states on the edge of the time zone.

Good reads:

• Behold the Dreamers by Imbolo Mbue
• The End of the World is Just the Beginning by Peter Zeihan
• A Hundred Other Girls by Iman Hariri-Kia
• Young Hoosier Awards: a list books chosen by kids for kids (and good for adults, too)

American Sign Language: Tuesday, 5:00-6:00 PM EST, Zoom

We practiced on our own. We learned from each other. Each of us presented and led a what she learned and studied this week. We went back to the basics and reviewed counting beyond 10 as well as adjectives.

November 8: It is still a great time to join us!

American English: Thursday, 9:00-11:00 AM EST, Zoom

We reviewed "D". We had some great conversation that 

November 10: Be prepared to role play a car accident. Prepare the "E" and "F"

American Accent Training: Thursday, 9:30-11:30 AM EST, Zoom

Aside from Bill's Tip and working on the important pronunciation of "schwa" (as in Rock the Boat), a student shared some tongue twisting phrases:

English is a difficult language.  It can be understood through tough, thorough thought though.  

Lots of /th/ sounds in that one...both voiced and voiceless!  Keep practicing until it flows easily off of your tongue!

Here are a few more:

• Unique New York
• She sells seashells by the seashore.
• Freshly squeezed.
•  I don’t know if I should bring this up because I don’t want you to get wound up. 

November 10: Class continues on Zoom.

Kids Conversation: Friday, 4:30-5:00 PM EST, Zoom

We talked about how we celebrated Halloween in our home countries. It was nice to hear about the fun.

November 11: We have homework: Make a mashed potato sculpture! Here is a classic clip from the movie Close Encounters of the Third Kind.

Welcome November

 Hello, Friends.

We were back on Zoom this week for all of our classes. We have some changes in our scheduling, so be sure to check our Update Schedule to log in to your meeting on the right day at the right time. To complicate matters further, Daylight Savings ends and we are falling back. If you are not in the Eastern Time Zone and Zoom to our classes, be sure to check your clock. The exception is to our Kid's Conversation; this class is falling back to 4:30-5:00 PM on Fridays (no change for most of our International Friends; local Friends need to mark the change).

November Notable Dates

Buckle up! Novenber is a great month. The weather turns cold here in Indiana, but holiday fun is heating up!

November 6: Daylight Savings ends. Set your clocks back one hour (fall back!). For our International Students: American Sign Language, American English, and American Accent Training meet an hour later or "fall back". Kid's Conversation meets 4:30-5:00 PM EST (we meet at 

November 8: Midterm Elections. Polls are open 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Schools, churches, libraries, and other local community buildings may be hosting elections, so be aware of the extra people/traffic.

November 17: International Friends Feast! Meet at Cornerstone Lutheran Church, Carmel to learn to cook traditional American dishes, bring a dish to share.

November 21-25: No classes or meetings for Thanksgiving break

November 24: Thanksgiving Day

November 25: Black Friday; the first official shopping day for Christmas sales; you can officially begin to decorate for Christmas.

Literal Slang in the News

Elon Musk carries a sink into Twitter headquarters and says, "Let that sink in."

American Midterm Elections

So many great ideas and words are bandied about during an election year. This year is no different. Issues to be solved for the United States and our communities come to light or take the spotlight.

• Midterm Elections: occur half-way or two years into the administration of a president. During these elections, congressional members are elected. These elections give the American people the opportunity to influence the direction of the country and redirect the law-making arm of our government.
• GOP: Grand Old Party. The Republican Party.
• Democrat: a person associated with the Democratic Party (not to be confused with the word democracy)
• Red Wave: each party has a "color". The Republican party is red. The Democratic party is blue. States may vote predominately one party or another (a red state or a blue state) or be split (a purple state). A "red wave" refers to political shift in Congress (and local government is some cases) to a majority of Republican representatives.
• Non-Partisan: not associated with a particular party.
• Poll/polling place: where people go to vote.
• Stump/stumping: travel around making political speeches
• PAC (Political Action Committee): a group that raises money privately to influence an election, either for candidates or for legislation
• Smear campaign: a plan to discredit a public figure by making false accusations
• Race: the competition between the candidates
• Seats: positions in the House of Representatives or Senate
• Early voting: going to vote in person prior to the first Tuesday in November
• Ballot box: the place where ballots are deposited
• Mail in vote: voters cast their ballot by mail
• On the campaign trail: traveling and making political speeches for a specific candidate

The Twenty Second Amendment to the Constitution of the United States

Twenty-Second Amendment  Presidential Term Limits

Amdt22.1 Historical Background

Amdt22.2 Doctrine and Practice

Section 1

No person shall be elected to the office of the President more than twice, and no person who has held the office of President, or acted as President, for more than two years of a term to which some other person was elected President shall be elected to the office of the President more than once. But this Article shall not apply to any person holding the office of President when this Article was proposed by the Congress, and shall not prevent any person who may be holding the office of President, or acting as President, during the term within which this Article becomes operative from holding the office of President or acting as President during the remainder of such term.

Section 2

This article shall be inoperative unless it shall have been ratified as an amendment to the Constitution by the legislatures of three-fourths of the several States within seven years from the date of its submission to the States by the Congress.

American Sign Language: Tuesday, 5:00-6:00 PM, Zoom

We opened with three riddles:

1. What did the ocean say to the beach?                                             Nothing, it just waved.

2.  Why did the tomato blush?                                                         It saw the salad dressing.

3.  What do you call a bear with no teeth?                                                        Gummy bear.

iReviews emailed with the following article about The Top 26 Resources for Learning Sign Language.

November 1: Our teacher is out of town, so we plan to review what we have learned. This is a good time to join us!

American English Class: Thursday, 9:00-11:00 AM, Zoom

We talked about the many "tools" that help expand language study. Finding the right tools to build your repertoire (pronounced rep i twa) is half the fun of learning!

November 3: Prepare the "D" and "E" word lists from 1000 Words. Get ready for some emergency conversations like talking to an officer, dialing 911, etc.

American Accent Training: Thursday, 9:30-11:30 AM, Zoom

The class concentrated on the short "o" sound. Bill's Tip is a great example as the sound as well as an example of the Update this week!

Bill's Tip: Hodge Podge

Kid's Conversation: Friday, 5:30-6:00 PM, Zoom

We had a nice little meeting. Kids in other countries mainly celebrate Halloween as a part of studying English. This is very interesting and helps us to understand how American culture impacts American language.

November 4: Come and chat! The best way to expand and grow your English is to use it with friends.

buckle up: get ready for fast moving or bumpy events

come to light: gain awareness

heating up: become more active or intense

take the spotlight: gain attention; take attention from others

Schedule Changes, Meet Up and More

 Hello, Friends.

We had a great Fall Break and we had our first in-person tailgate meet up for all of International Friends at CLC. While it was chilly to downright cold, we had a great time. It was great to get together and see each other in person, to share snacks, and to celebrate being together. We made new friends and our children got to meet one another. We were super happy to have 19 Friends and Family meet up! Thank you for coming. Mark your calendars for our November 17 Feast.

Carving Your Jack o Lantern and Halloween

We did not carve our pumpkins...This Wikihow To Carve a Pumpkin has great demonstration videos as well as tips for carving a pumpkin into a Jack-o-Lantern. Even seasoned carvers can learn a tip or two. Pick up a set of pumpkin carving tools from Walmart or any grocery store or drug stores. These tools can make your carving so much easier. If you want to hold off, you can often pick them up on clearance after Halloween and save them for future carving. This year Halloween is on a Monday, this means that you can start your celebration by carving over the weekend!

Pumpkin carving is not just reserved for Halloween. People carve pumpkins for Thanksgiving decorations as well as for fall weddings.

More About Pumpkins

Pumpkins are an important part of our fall fun and decorations. You may have noticed the many types of pumpkins out 

Halloween Final Preparation

Halloween is a great celebration in the United States. If you have not already noticed, people love to decorate with fun and chilling lights, spiders, ghosts, pumpkins and so much more.

Each community sets time for trick or treating. Check this schedule from Fox News to find you what time to expect visitors. Some neighborhoods or homes host hot dog roasts or coolers with adult beverages to help everyone have fun.

Turn on your porch light or decorate your house to signal that you want trick or treaters to stop by. 

By the same token, if you are taking trick or treaters out, look for homes that are decorated or have porch lights on. 

Be Safe: 

• Be sure to look over your children's candy before allowing them to eat any treats. 
• Be sure that all candies are store-bought and wrapped. 
• Watch for traffic. 
• If you are driving, watch for children.
• Carry a flashlight to see and to be seen.
• Keep pets safe in your home (dogs or cats love to dash out the door and join the fun).
• Dress for the weather...Indiana weather can change quickly this time of year.

Popular places for family fun:

• Boo Zoo: Wednesday, October 26, 2:00-7:00, Indianapolis Zoo
• Newfields Harvest Nights: ends October 30, 7:30-10:00 PM, Newfields 
• Headless Horseman at Connor Prairie: Thursday-Sunday, 6-10:00 PM, Connor Prairie

If you are looking for something a more, find more spooky fun on Fright Find. Some of these places are open all year. Some of the locations listed are restaurants or hotels with a good story or history.  You can enter an address and find phantom fun all over the United States. 

Changes to Our Schedule

Notice the changes to our class/meeting times. If you could not meet with us because of your schedule, maybe you could not meet with us before, but the class fits your schedule now. Current Zoom Links have been adjusted.

American Sign Language: Tuesday, 5:00-6:00 PM, Zoom

American English: Thursday, 9:00-11:00 AM, Zoom

The Twenty-First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States

Prohibition was repealed with this amendment.

Section 1 Repeal of the Eighteenth Amendment

The eighteenth article of amendment to the Constitution of the United States is hereby repealed.

Section 2 Importation, Transportation, and Sale of Liquor

The transportation or importation into any State, Territory, or possession of the United States for delivery or use therein of intoxicating liquors, in violation of the laws thereof, is hereby prohibited.

Amdt21.S2.1Discrimination Against Interstate Commerce

Amdt21.S2.2State Regulation of Imports Destined for a Federal Area

Amdt21.S2.3Imports, Exports, and Foreign Commerce

Amdt21.S2.4Effect of Section 2 upon Other Constitutional Provisions

Amdt21.S2.5Effect on Federal Regulation

Section 3 Ratification Deadline

This article shall be inoperative unless it shall have been ratified as an amendment to the Constitution by conventions in the several States, as provided in the Constitution, within seven years from the date of the submission hereof to the States by the Congress.

by the same token: in the same way or for the same reason

chilling: frightening, scary

clearance: final sales to clear store shelves

coolers: a container that holds ice and keeps food and drinks cold

downright: positively, absolutely

repealed: revoked, annulled, no longer a law or legal/binding committment

Meet-up and More!

Hello, Friends.

For a fall break, I did get to see so many of you. And I got to see and catch up with a few Friends who are living the life here in Indiana. It was so nice to see them again and hear about what they have been doing since leaving our classes. Keep in touch. Join our socials when you can. Shoot me an e-mail. I think of our alumni often and like to hear what you are doing.

Classes and meetings continue on the regular schedule this week with the exception of our English Classes on Thursday. We have our first, in-person meet-up as a school in place of our Zoom classes. We will open the Zoom room, so you can Zoom over and say "Hi" if you don't live locally.

Our First Meet-Up

October 20, 10:00-12:00, at Cornerstone Lutheran Church: 4850 East Main Street, Carmel

Join us for a pumpkin carving, tailgate in the parking lot. 

Bring a snack to share. Bring your own drink. 

Bring a pumpkin to carve into a Jack o Lantern (bring a knife and a large spoon)

Come to meet and chat and socialize in person. Bring your family, friends, kids. Everyone is welcome, even if you are not currently taking classes with us. 

American English Accent Observations and Tips

I got to sit in on the American Accent Training Class and learned about many fun places to visit in the Indianapolis area. This class is doing a great job listening and hearing American English sounds and subtilties. One note that is important when learning English is that "often what you hear is very different from what you see on paper." English is not a phonetic language, so when words are "borrowed" from other languages, they often retain a close to original spelling, even when it breaks English phonetic rules. As a rule, the standard American Accent is the Midwest accent (like the one you find here in Indianapolis!). Sometimes there are acceptable, subtle differences in pronunciation. 

Have

We use the word "have" in many different ways and contexts.

• have: possess
• have to: must, need to
• have at it: to try or do something, do something with great energy
• won't have it: not tolerate something
• have it all: possess or get everything one wants 

Sandhill Cranes Are Back

Indiana is a flyway for Sandhill Cranes. The Jasper-Pulaski Fish and Wildlife Area hosts these travelers. The DNR (Department of Natural Resources) counts of the migration begins in October and generally lasts through the end of December. Click here to see the current count and to learn more about the migration, the best time to visit and see this natural wonder.

November Elections 

Midterm elections are an important part of the government cycle in the United States. Many local governmental positions are filled. This year, school board elections are front and center. Carmel Clay Schools have three open positions, but voters cast their votes for three board members across the district. Click on the link to learn more about this important election and hear the candidates answer questions. Carmel School Board and Panel Interviews from the Hamilton Country Reporter

The Twentieth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States

This amendment sets dates for terms of office and provides for the succession of office holders. Read more.

Section 1

The terms of the President and the Vice President shall end at noon on the 20th day of January, and the terms of Senators and Representatives at noon on the 3d day of January, of the years in which such terms would have ended if this article had not been ratified; and the terms of their successors shall then begin.

Section 2

The Congress shall assemble at least once in every year, and such meeting shall begin at noon on the 3d day of January, unless they shall by law appoint a different day.

Section 3

If, at the time fixed for the beginning of the term of the President, the President elect shall have died, the Vice President elect shall become President. If a President shall not have been chosen before the time fixed for the beginning of his term, or if the President elect shall have failed to qualify, then the Vice President elect shall act as President until a President shall have qualified; and the Congress may by law provide for the case wherein neither a President elect nor a Vice President elect shall have qualified, declaring who shall then act as President, or the manner in which one who is to act shall be selected, and such person shall act accordingly until a President or Vice President shall have qualified.

Section 4

The Congress may by law provide for the case of the death of any of the persons from whom the House of Representatives may choose a President whenever the right of choice shall have devolved upon them, and for the case of the death of any of the persons from whom the Senate may choose a Vice President whenever the right of choice shall have devolved upon them.

Section 5

Sections 1 and 2 shall take effect on the 15th day of October following the ratification of this article.

Section 6

This article shall be inoperative unless it shall have been ratified as an amendment to the Constitution by the legislatures of three-fourths of the several States within seven years from the date of its submission. 

Bill’s Tip: bottleneck

aviary: pertaining to birds

catch up: talking with people to find out what has happened since they last saw each other

flyway: a route regularly used by migrating birds

lasts: continues to exist through a period of time

living the life: enjoying all the things that life has to offer

natural wonder: something or someone that is amazing 

ratified: gave formal consent, make official

sit in on: attend

succession: plan for replacing leaders

October Days

 Hello Friends.

I am sorry for the late Update. It was a busy weekend full of moving and family. Lucky for us it's break week.

October is a busy month for our Friends:

Fall Break Oct. 13 & 14: American English class and Kid's Conversation are not meeting

Pumpkin Carving Tailgate Oct. 20 In Person (and on Zoom) at Cornerstone Lutheran Church, 4850 East Main Street, Carmel. Meet in the parking lot (indoors if weather is inclement we will meet indoors) 10:00 AM-12:00 PM.

• Bring a pumpkin to carve.
• Bring a sharp knife and large spoon.
• Bring tailgate snacks to share.
• Bring your own beverage.
• Bring your family and friends.

Get Out There

Downtown Indy Events: Fall festivals are firing up downtown. Bookmark this site to keep up to date with fun events.

Only in Your State: Find fun in the state where you live or where you would like to visit.

The Nineteenth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States

The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex.

Women's suffrage campaigns in the 1800s gave women voting rights on a state by state basis (with Kentucky being the first state). This right became a Federal law in 1920. Read more.

• Understanding America: 100 Years of Women Voting is a video briefing with a transcript to follow along or to understand words you may have missed.
• League of Women Voters: is a nonpartisan, grassroots organization that provides a great deal of information and resources for all American voters.

American Sign Language: Monday, 5:30-6:30 PM, Zoom

Technical difficulties made for a short class. Class vocabulary review continues.

October 10: Introduction and review of Fall vocabulary and The Lord's Prayer. Here are two videos of the prayer. This Lord's Prayer video helps to understand the attitude of this signing. This video helps to understand the words or vocabulary as well as variations of the meanings of the words.

American Accent Training: Thursday, 9:30-11:30 AM, Zoom

Back together again. Bill's Tip was Jump through hoops.

October 13: American Accent Training is Zooming.

October 20: Meet up to experience the American traditions of tailgating and pumpkin carving for Halloween (and other festive, fall holidays).

American English Class: Thursday, 9:00-11:00 AM Zoom

We are moving our meeting to 9:00-11:00 AM to accommodate our Asian Interntional Friends with the Daylight Savings/Time Zone change.

We talked about number pronunciation and number conventions in the United States. How we say "personal" numbers like house or phone numbers is different than how we talk about amounts. 

We also talked about writing a check and how American number conventions work when both writing and speaking about the check.

October 13: No class. Fall Break

October 20: Meet up to experience the American traditions of tailgating and pumpkin carving for Halloween (and other festive, fall holidays).

October 27: Back to class. Be ready to go through the "C" words from the 1000 Word List. "C" can be pronounced a number of ways. In order to be understood, be sure to use the right pronunciation.

Kid's Conversation: Friday, 5:30-6:00 PM, Zoom

We learned about field day in Brazil. We play many of the same games. Field day in Brazil lasts three days and even has opening ceremonies!

October 15: No meeting. Fall Break.

October 28: Let's talk about getting ready for Halloween and Halloween in our home countries.

accommodate: adapt of change to fit the wishes or needs of another person

follow along: read at the same time as watching or listening

get out there: leave your comfortable home and have some fun

made for a [something]: caused [something]

say: talk about or pronounce

talk about: refer to or explain something

Welcome October!

 Hello Friends

October is a very special month in the United States. We celebrate some major cultural holidays over the next few months. Look for Halloween decorations. This holiday is second only to Christmas in outdoor yard displays! Halloween shops are popping up in vacant stores. These are great field trips!

To celebrate the season...

Mark your calendars for our in-person meet up:

Thursday, October 20, 10:00-12:00 at Cornerstone Lutheran Church 

4850 East Main Street, Carmel

To tailgate and carve pumpkins for Halloween

We will meet in the parking lot to have a tailgate party. This is a parking lot party before a sporting event or concert where people meet and share snacks or food. Bring food to share and a pumpkin to carve for you Halloween decorating. Everyone is welcome! Bring friends and children and meet up with old friends and new friends.

• Bring something to eat to our tailgate.

• Bring some delicious thing to eat to our tailgate party.

Storytelling

Everyone likes a good story. Storytelling Arts of Indiana is just that. You can go to listen (and watch the ASL interpreter) to a storyteller weave his or her magic. Most events are free (but you need to register) and may be in person or virtual or a hybrid. 

Fun to Ponder

How we say a word or words make a difference. Consider the following words. There is a little difference that can make a big difference.

something or some thing: We say and write these words together and they function as a pronoun. We only separate them if we add an additional descriptive word in between. 

someplace or some place: 

sleep over or over sleep

The Eighteenth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States

This amendment was repealed by the 21st Amendment. Read more about this now defunct amendment.

Section 1

After one year from the ratification of this article the manufacture, sale, or transportation of intoxicating liquors within, the importation thereof into, or the exportation thereof from the United States and all territory subject to the jurisdiction thereof for beverage purposes is hereby prohibited.

Section 2

The Congress and the several States shall have concurrent power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation.

Section 3

This article shall be inoperative unless it shall have been ratified as an amendment to the Constitution by the legislatures of the several States, as provided in the Constitution, within seven years from the date of the submission hereof to the States by the Congress.

American Sign Language: Monday, 5:30-6:30 PM, Zoom

Emergency weather language as it relates to hurricanes. We found that we generally understood about 85% or more of the signs. Some of the signs we "missed" were either quickly transformed into another word, were a bit stylistic or maybe local. Look how information about Florida is signed. The interpreter's left hand was the state of Florida and the right hand demonstrated what Governor DeSantis was saying. This signed map is a clever visual presentation and shorthand.

October 3: Meet and explore new topics and practice stringing our vocabulary together.

American English: Thursday, 9:30-11:30, Zoom

We had a very productive meeting. We compared the word advocate to similar words in our home languages. An advocate takes the side and the cause of another or others. In America, advocates may or may not be personally involved. Some advocacy agencies are hired. We covered the "A" words in a favorite 1000 word list. 

October 6: Be Prepared:

1000 Word "B" List
Email three goals for the class.

American Accent Training: Thursday, 9:30-11:30, Zoom

Class met for a brunch meet-up to end the month of September to practice social skills....
October 6: Business as usual on Zoom.

Kid's Conversation: Friday, 5:30-6:00, Zoom

We learned about field day in Japan. Games include running races, tug of war and, martial arts "dance". We also had a drive in the Indiana countryside and got to see harvest equipment and fall farm fields.
October 7: Hear and ask questions about field day in Brazil.

business as usual: return to normal events after a break or different program
clever: ingenius, inventive, origional 
defunct: no longer functioning
ponder: think about
shorthand: a short or quick way of saying something
stylistic: eloquent; skillful way with words
thereof: the thing mentioned
weave magic: mesmerize, entrance

Welcome Fall and Wrapping Up September

 Hello, Friends. 

Welcome Fall! It is official: Thursday the 22nd the Northern Hemisphere experienced the autumnal equinox.  This week our Indiana temperatures took a dip. In Indiana we are happy to have the season of:

• Apples (see our Kid's Conversation Notes below)
• Pumpkin Spice
• Sweater Weather
• Bon Fires
• Apple Cider
• Corn Mazes
• Tailgating
• Football
• Festivals 

It was fantastic to see Friends at the Oktoberfest. We are forming a new Meet-Up where we can get together for socialization with our husbands (and our kids, maybe).

Monarch Migration

Look to the skies. Indiana is a Monarch butterfly flyway. Read this detailed and interesting report about the Indiana initiative to increase public awareness and grow the population of this amazing insects that are born in Indiana, travel to winter in central Mexico (like many Hoosier snowbirds), and then return back home again in Indiana to "have a family".

Festing Season and Fun

Indy International Festival: October 14, 15, 16 at the Exposition Hall, Indiana State Fairgrounds.

Wolf Park: See wolves and learn more about these magnificent animals.

Seventeenth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States

Read more to understand the background to this Amendment during Mid-Term season.

The Senate of the United States shall be composed of two Senators from each State, elected by the people thereof, for six years; and each Senator shall have one vote. The electors in each State shall have the qualifications requisite for electors of the most numerous branch of the State legislatures.

When vacancies happen in the representation of any State in the Senate, the executive authority of such State shall issue writs of election to fill such vacancies: Provided, That the legislature of any State may empower the executive thereof to make temporary appointments until the people fill the vacancies by election as the legislature may direct.

This amendment shall not be so construed as to affect the election or term of any Senator chosen before it becomes valid as part of the Constitution.

American Sign Language: Monday, 5:30-6:30 PM, Zoom

Free flowing conversation helps us to check our vocabulary. ASL helps us to target the words we need in our lives. Sometimes we can structure this and sometimes our current story drives what we need. Interestingly enough, ASL and American English do not always have the same words or expressions.

September 26: Join us as we visit the all critical words for Fall.

American English: Thursday, 9:30-11:30 AM, Zoom

We are beginning to target what our class as a whole needs to work on this year. 

September 29: This week we are following structure activities. 

• Look over the A words in this list and bring your questions.
• Find the discrepancies in the picture.
• Tell us three goals for learning English.
• Check your number skills.

American Accent Training: Thursday, 9:30-11:30 AM, Zoom

American Accent Training videos to help all of us work on how we pronounce unique American English sounds.

Understanding "schwa"

The two "th" sounds

Voiced and voiceless consonant sounds

September 29: The class is meeting for fellowship at A2Z Cafe. If you can not physically join, but want to practice your English, join our American English class via Zoom. You should have the link for the semester. If you need me to resend it, shoot me an email. I will also send you the notes from our last class so that you can participate fully.

Kid's Conversation: Friday, 5:30-6:00 PM, Zoom

We had a nice conversation about apples. There is a saying that "an apple a day keeps the doctor away". Do apples have magical health properties? This Web MD article tells the nutritional story. 

Here in Indiana, it is apple picking time. We have You Pick orchards where you pick (and eat) your own apples. You can buy wonderful treats like candied or caramel apples, apple fritters, apple cider, and apple slushies. We have apple sauce, apple butter, apple pancakes, apple pie, apple salsa. Apples go great with peanut butter and cheese. 

There are there are thousands of varieties of apples to enjoy and each of them have special characteristics, flavors, or uses.

October 1: Welcome to October. October is a favorite month in the U.S. What is your favorite thing about October.

as a whole: all together as a group

discrepancies: incorrect or incompatible facts

explanation or one could also note

initiative: a strategy to resolve a difficulty or improve a situation 

interestingly enough: this filler or bridge-type of phrase can mean coincidently or by way ofofficial: recognized as 

shoot me: send quickly

to target: focus 

Week 2 of Classes and Fests Around Indiana

Hello, Friends. 

Things we need to get:

• Driver's License: America is a car culture
• Library Card: you can borrow books, music, videos and more. With your card you have access to apps like Hoopla and Libby to download audio and ebooks.

These two "passes" open your world. Your license let's you move around the area, work, study, play and expands your horizons. Your library opens your mind and expands your horizons.

Informal Meet-Ups

Here are two informal opportunities for you and all of us to meet up.

Porch Fest in Carmel, Saturday, September 18, 12:00-6:00 PM

Oktoberfest at CLC, Friday, September 23, 4:00-10:00 PM

Cold and Flu and COVID and Allergy Season

In the States, we start thinking about cold and flu season in the fall. Back to school and colder weather has everyone gathering indoors more and then colds and flu are shared with others (I always say the best way to get rid of a cold—or a song that keeps going through your head—is to give it to someone else).

Signs outside pharmacies tell you when the new flu vaccine is in. When is the best time to get your flu shot? Pharmacists we know suggest not until late in October to have coverage into the spring.

This year we have an updated booster that includes protection against the original COVID as well as the latest variants. Read more from the CDC. You can choose between Moderna or Pfizer. The booster is bivariant or has protection against two strains of COVID.

Allergy season is big in the fall in Indiana. Pollen, ragweed, leaf mold are all out floating in the air. Is it a cold or an allergy? That is a good question!

What To Do In Indiana

Visit Indiana: Whether you are new to Indiana or have lived here all your life, there is always something or some place to see

Only In Your State: A site that lists unique finds by state. This particular page is about bakeries. Two great local bakeries (Cake Bake and Titus) are listed. I would add Muncie's Concannon's Bakery to the list.

Fall Overlooks from Only In Your State: Plan ahead for the views to visit.

The Sixteenth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States

The Congress shall have power to lay and collect taxes on incomes, from whatever source derived, without apportionment among the several States, and without regard to any census or enumeration.

Income tax is how our state and federal governments are funded. Be sure to read the notes about this amendment. Notice: if you gain income from illicit means, you still have to pay tax on that income. This includes money from illegal business or embezzlement. 

American Sign Language: Monday, 5:30-6:30 PM, Zoom

We caught up with each other and met new friends. We signed where we could in conversation. We reviewed the signed alphabet.

September 19: Cover some basics of ASL. Build our conversation skills.

American English/American Accent Training: Thursdays, 9:30-11:30 AM, Zoom

We continue to get to know each other. Accent Training talked about Bill's Tip: Play it by ear. 

September 22: Bring to class three things you want to learn this year. Describe five things that are wrong in this picture:

Kid's Conversation: Friday, 5:30-6:00 PM, Zoom

We enjoyed a science report on stag beetles and listened to Coldplay.

September 23: Tell us one wonderful thing from this week.

coverage: protection

embezzlement: stealing or misappropriation of funds

expand your horizon: see beyond current circumstances, broaden your view, learn or experience new things

illicit: forbidden by law or custom

keeps going through your head: repeating over and over and over and over

International Friends Is Back In Session!

 Hello Friends.

It was wonderful to be Zooming together again. We were happy to discover that Friends that have moved away can continue to Zoom with us from other countries. Check our Meetings and Classes and join us.

Back To Class

It was good to be back to class. This year we are continuing our classes on Zoom. We have Friends Zooming from beyond the greater Indianapolis area. You

Our Friends made great observations about moving from speaking in our

• Mother language
• Mother tongue
• Native language
• Home language
• First language

to a new language. 

Our English Classes made these key observations:

• Listening is important.
• Hearing is important.
• Being mindful of how others hear us is important. (American Ears)
• Accents and speech patterns are key to understanding.
• Acceptable words and ways are important to know.
• Understanding the culture is important to language learning.
• Knowing casual or formal word usage as well as inappropriate language is important.

The Fifteenth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States

The Right to Vote is important for American citizens. Free and fair elections have been the hallmark of our country. Election "season" is an important time for Americans to get to know the candidates and their stand on issues. 

Section 1
The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of race, color, or previous condition of servitude–

Section 2
The Congress shall have the power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation.

This Week in Review

American Sign Language: Monday, 5:30-6:30 PM, Zoom

Class begins September 12. 

American Accent Training: Thursday, 9:30-11:30 AM, Zoom

Bill's Tip is "over the top".  

American English: Thursday, 9:30-11:30 AM, Zoom

We are getting to know each other these first weeks. A level of trust is important to communicate. 

September 15: Bring three goals or things that you would like to concentrate or learn.

Kids Conversation: Friday, 5:30-6:00 PM, Zoom

We learned about one of our Friend lives in Japan and they had a family camping trip through their school. Ten families set up and slept in tents, cooked over fires, and made crafts. We learned about Baumkuchen (Tree Cake) and French toast. Both of these dishes came to 

September 18: Try making French toast. Tell us about it.

through: 

Welcome September!

Hello, Friends.

It is football season! College and high school games are in full swing. Football is an important part of American culture. Whether you follow the sport or not, we are impacted by this sport.

The professional football season begins September 8. Pick a team or players to follow and learn about the game from the NFL (National Football League).

International Friends Registration Is Open: Classes Begin the Week of September 12

Register to get the Zoom links. Links will be issued Friday, September 9. You can enter either a phone number (for numbers outside the U.S., include your country code) or email to get a confirmation code to confirm that you are a real person and not a spammer or bot.

Welcome September! Mark Your Calendars for Indiana Fall Fun

Now that the pools have closed, the lazy days are over and the fall festival season has begun.

Hamilton County has so much to offer. September festivals and fun are on. Click to see all or see our favorites below.

Jupiter Balloon Flights at Connor Prairie: September 9 and 10. Join for free at 7:30 AM or get tickets to the park and celebrate.

Chinese Mooncake Festival: September 10, 6:30-8:30 PM, Art and Design District, Carmel.

St. George Middle Eastern Festival: is held annually at 10748 E 116th street, Fishers. This year it is a three day event: September 16, 5:00-10:00 PM, September 17, 1:00-10:00 PM and September 18, 1:00-5:00 PM. Free admission, tours of the 

Cornerstone Lutheran Church Oktoberfest: September 23, 4:00-10:00 PM, on the corner of Main and Gray Streets in Carmel.

James Dean Festival: Fairmount, IN, September 23-25.

The Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States

Citizenship, Equal Protection, and Other Rights of Citizens

This amendment is quite long and describes how the rights of the citizens of the United States are upheld and enforced. Many cases have come before the Supreme Court to inform how this amendment is upheld. Most current events are informed by this amendment and understanding this right and the history supporting this right is critical for understanding current American issues. There is a wonderfully long outline and discussion that is well worth looking into The Fourteenth Amendment: Citizenship, Equal Protection, and Other Rights of Citizens

Section 1 Due Process of Law

All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside. No State shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any State deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.

Section 2 Apportionment of Representation

Representatives shall be apportioned among the several States according to their respective numbers, counting the whole number of persons in each State, excluding Indians not taxed. But when the right to vote at any election for the choice of electors for President and Vice-President of the United States, Representatives in Congress, the Executive and Judicial officers of a State, or the members of the Legislature thereof, is denied to any of the male inhabitants of such State, being twenty-one years of age, and citizens of the United States, or in any way abridged, except for participation in rebellion, or other crime, the basis of representation therein shall be reduced in the proportion which the number of such male citizens shall bear to the whole number of male citizens twenty-one years of age in such State.

Section 3 Disqualification from Holding Office

No person shall be a Senator or Representative in Congress, or elector of President and Vice-President, or hold any office, civil or military, under the United States, or under any State, who, having previously taken an oath, as a member of Congress, or as an officer of the United States, or as a member of any State legislature, or as an executive or judicial officer of any State, to support the Constitution of the United States, shall have engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the same, or given aid or comfort to the enemies thereof. But Congress may by a vote of two-thirds of each House, remove such disability.

Section 4 Public Debt Clause

The validity of the public debt of the United States, authorized by law, including debts incurred for payment of pensions and bounties for services in suppressing insurrection or rebellion, shall not be questioned. But neither the United States nor any State shall assume or pay any debt or obligation incurred in aid of insurrection or rebellion against the United States, or any claim for the loss or emancipation of any slave; but all such debts, obligations and claims shall be held illegal and void.

Section 5 Enforcement Clause

The Congress shall have the power to enforce, by appropriate legislation, the provisions of this article.

abridged: shortened or condensed

apportioned: divide and share

assume (a debt): take over the payment of a debt

bot: a computer program that imitates the behavior of a person

come before: presented for judgement

disability: (law) lack of legal qualification to do something

disqualification: to deprive of a right after a hearing

quite: considerably, very

spammer: a person or organization that sends irrelevant or unsolicited messages over the internet, typically to large numbers of users, for the purposes of advertising, phishing, spreading malware, etc:

upheld: supported or given support