text:
Today was an unfortunate step backwards in the process of necessary change to the cultural and social atmosphere in Malden. I can understand the thought process to a degree that Principal Keenan and Superintendent of Schools Dr. DeRuosi and any others involved in the decision used in removing the tradition of sharing Valentine's Day cards at the Salemwood School. What I cannot understand is the reasoning and the conclusion they arrived at and the subsequent communicating of their reasons which has confused, angered, and frustrated an entire city and by the virtue of social media, enflamed the debate nationally. This is not the kind of issue we want shining the national spotlight on Malden. This is the kind of issue we should be leading other communities in defending.
As the years have gone by we have seen so many of our familiar customs flicker away. Many succumb to the Grim Reaper of traditions …political correctness. Superintendent DeRuosi used "political correctness" as his basis for supporting the Valentine's Day ban at Salemwood. I ask that he clarify exactly what he means by removing all references to Valentine's Day as a "politically correct" move. I ask to whom does such a ban benefit and why? I also would ask why just Salemwood, not Linden, Ferryway, Beebe, or Forestdale? I ask that he define who would be offended, specifically.
Both Principal Keenan and Dr. DeRuosi pointed out that the "diversity" of the school was a main component in arriving at and supporting the decision. I will ask again, what does that mean? Yes, Malden is a very diverse community. Which race, creed, ethnicity are so enraged and so large in number that because they came out in such mass decrying the celebration of a non-religious observance that has its founding in retail commerce not religion?Yyou found it necessary to upheave a worldwide traditional observance of love, caring and compassion and turn it to a bland art project…and you did it to the children of the community. That is unacceptable for administrators of the educational directives and goals of the city and its citizens. Love, compassion, and sharing are values we need in our society and in our community. Traditions are to be upheld. Yes we have many citizens from numerous cultural backgrounds, customs and beliefs; however we hold it fundamentally American to accept their customs and their constitutional right to practice their beliefs and customs. In turn it is expected that they are to also assimilate to our traditions just as we would have to comply and accept, if not practice, if we were to reside in any other country around the world.
"According to a letter sent to parents from Principal Carol Keenan last week, the school "(does) not celebrate holidays and/or birthdays during school hours," citing the "more than sixty-seven different cultures and languages" represented there.
"We welcome and celebrate our diversity, however to insure equity of all beliefs we are unable to acknowledge specific holidays," she wrote."
Principal Keenan says " the school does not celebrate holidays and birthdays during school hours." Yes there are 67 languages and cultures represented, that's great. They all do the Pledge of Allegiance before class don't they? My son does at Ferryway School. Is Salemwood exempt from Pledge of Allegiance based on diversity? Seeing as the flag is the very symbol of the freedom that allows for that diversity to flourish and survive yet has also come under fire for being "politically incorrect" in many other communities. So how is a non-religious observance that is not designated by any federal state or municipal law as a holiday any different? How can you quote a policy that prohibits holiday observances yet you banned a non-holiday, non-religious observance on the merit of that policy? It makes no sense at all, it's in fact contradictory. My son learned about the Menorah during Hanukkah, we aren't Jewish, why didn't he learn about the birth of Christ? My son learned the Dreidel Song but not Ave Maria…should I have protested?
The claim that the financial limitation of the families in purchasing Valentine's contributed to the decision may be fair and respectful and even honorable. However, it is difficult to assume that every family cannot afford the $1.00 cost of 30 Valentines at any Dollar Tree Store (of which Malden now has two). Also, as some student did in my son's class, they just wrote them out on plain paper. It was worth just as much as one with captain America, or Spider Man or Harry Potter on them. If costs to families are such a concern ask the other parents to chip in, reach out to the business community, and engage the tremendous community programs and organizations to assist. This will alleviate the financial worry, avoid any embarrassment to the children but also engage more of the citizens and businesses in assisting their neighbors and create the habit of support among all residents of Malden. This was an opportunity to unify a community and it was missed because of what I see as authoritative ignorance and resistance to others ideas. This was quite simply a poorly thought out decision which has been exacerbated by the lack of clarity in responding to the attention it brought on our city. We have had enough sad and distressing media coverage in the past year can't we agree?
You underestimated the acceptance of a child's mind and imagination. If you choose to see a child's response through your eyes as an adult, you will make decisions that benefit the interest of an adult and not of the child. As educators, that deserves a failing grade. Children don't see diversity; they are unaware of the differences that become such divisive issues as we age. They don't care about, because they don't know about, religious implications, ethnic and cultural differences. They just want to share, have fun, laugh and play. The banning today at Salemwood stole part of the children's innocence we as adults are entrusted to protect. How are we to raise tolerant young people that will grow to benefit the society we inherited and were expected to progress when we are the ones allowing society to regress because we are afraid of upsetting a few people? Today this thought process, this ignorance to the true feelings of the city upset hundreds and now with the national spotlight, thousands of people. An unintended consequence I'm sure but proof that this decision was wrong.
The lesson these children learned today wasn't diversity, it was you can't accept others differences, we don't trust you to be able to do that so we will strip everything of its unique flavor and color so that no one gets left out. We wouldn't want kids to learn acceptance and adaptability because as we know no one ever leaves the city they grew up in so why would they ever need to learn to adapt to change, accept other customs and beliefs and learn that our differences and accepting them are what makes us as individuals and as a communities strong.
The Principal and Superintendent need to admit this was a poorly planned attempt at avoiding any backlash or it was provoked by a very small issuance of complaints from a distinct minor amount of people who like the Principal and Superintendent, did not take the time or go through enough discussion to make an educated decision. That is disappointing since you are the leaders of the selfless, amazing and dedicated teachers we have put our trust and faith and hopes in to assist us as parents and in many cases unfortunately, take on part of the role as parent to the hearts and minds of those we are grooming to be our successors in moving our society forward. Today I feel a major step backward was taken in Malden, and by the outpouring of anger, frustration and disbelief, I am far from alone in that thought.
No one is above the citizens of the city, the SalemWood situation though not life altering, underscores the need for greater open discussion from the small issues of life in Malden to the more serious. It also takes the focus off the greater issues that truly need to be addressed. There has been more social media, on the street, in the shops and online discussion about the Ballpark, proposed DPW move, City Hall Proposals, snow plowing and the beer sales issue at McDonald Stadium than we have about advancements in solutions to the crime and violence facing our city. Whether it's the confusion around the new ballpark, open meeting violations or the exaggerated, embellished, or false and misleading information regarding recent crime in the city, those provided with the privilege to serve in an elected, appointed or hired public position should then know they have a responsibility to clearly articulate to the citizens any and all information in a timely and open manner. This should be done with the input of residents in order to establish a greater communication among all parties. Yes we know PTA involvement is low, yes there are many residents who do not care or even know about much of what is going on in any city, but that is not an excuse to make decisions without the understanding or forethought of how people will react. By creating a negative rate of approval within the city it continues to dismiss the positive efforts of so many under promoted ventures the city has to offer.
The Friendship Card idea at Salemwood is a worthwhile alternative out of fairness, not political correctness, finances or diversity (I'm a bit tired of the overuse of the word diversity as a selling point, a negative description, a crutch or a reason for making the vast amount of decisions) ...but once again poor communication throughout city departments, facilities and government is creating frustration, if you don't understand the speed and scope of social media and the news cycle, perhaps it's time to engage in meetings, discussions and decisions in a more advanced timely manner. Everyone knew February 14th was coming. Everyone knows there is a possibility of snow in February and the storm was predicted with certainty over a week ago. Print a notice and send it home with the kids on Thursday, don't mail it home. Do not use the blizzard as an excuse for the lack of ability to communicate the change from Valentine's Day cards to friendship Cards…that will not hold up and shows a lack of respect the for intelligence of the community.
I am finding it very difficult to understand why the residents of Malden are speaking loudly and in great numbers and much of the decisions regarding the city from its officials are being done in relative secrecy and silence. There must be discussion and debate on the merits of all decisions that need to be made. It must be inclusive of the citizens of the city through citizen panels (as the Mayor has convened and will continue to do) and the councilors that represent them. Residents must know where to find this information when it is available (city website, city social media, local media, and city councilor email newsletters), citizens must do their homework which is every citizens responsibility and bring your voice to the table. Not everyone is on Facebook or Twitter or has email even in this day and age and many details are not translated well in text. Our city officials must be out there expressing passion and decisiveness towards all that is good or bad in Malden.
In today's world politicians aren't the game changers, it's the men and woman with the rolled up sleeves, the ones freezing in the hockey rinks or on the sidelines, running the bake sales, standing proud on Flag Day and talking about that game in '65 when you know who blocked who knows what and secured the win over whats their name.. Those are the people that will make the greatest positive impact on the city of Malden. All our leaders have to do is what they haven't and what has led to the state of the city as I see it today….they have to listen.
As is being discussed nationally today with many congressional representatives not being from the states or districts they represent...If Malden has officials in its employment that aren't from Malden, perhaps we should look at ensuring they have the guidance from long residing citizens who are well versed in the pulse of the city. We can attract top notch talent to work in Malden because of the positive attributes associated with our cultural heritage, school system and other opportunities but if they don't know how to communicate with the public and in a manner that best serves Malden, perhaps we need to re-evaluate more than just the best way to celebrate Valentine's Day.
Scott Saia /Ward 1 Resident
Founder and Joint Organizer of Malden's Home For The Holidays Street Hockey Tournament
Cole O'Leary
7:19 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
Well put!
My 7th grader (at Salemwood) was very confused when she was told there would be no Valentine's. They got the whole "to many cultures, not appropriate for school" explaination but even kids could understand that didn't really explain it.
8:41 am on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
it's sad, unbelievable actually...glad my kids were able to enjoy the freedoms that are slowly being taken away today
T. Scott
7:29 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
Scott that was very well said and I fully agree.
7:31 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
It is perfectly acceptable to offend Americans, by removing all traces of our traditions, how is that not offensive or insensitive or wrong?
1:57 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
How is canceling a candy-fest during school hours "removing all traces of our traditions"? Take a breath. It will be OK.
7:05 am on Saturday, February 16, 2013
Its the fact that we are supposed to abandon our longstanding traditions for the sake of those who came here to join our culture.
8:24 am on Saturday, February 16, 2013
Who is offending Americans? propaganda at it's best. My child goes to one of the public school's here in Malden, and the complaints I heard from other parents (who were not culturally diverse) were that they could not "afford" to celebrate this day because of their economic status and/or that they did not want their child to feel bad if they did not get a valentine/flower/etc. - I think this fear-mongering is ridiculous. People need to think for themselves and stop regurgitating the information they receive from the little black box in their living room. No one is trying to take away anyone's traditions. Many people don't even know what their traditions even are or, of more importance, where they even Came from?? When people begin to understand their own religion/traditions, then is when they should make comments about what they think about anothers'. Ignorance is not bliss.
10:40 am on Saturday, February 16, 2013
Thank you, Liss, I totally agree. People have latched on to this Valentine's thing as a way to complain about immigrants. I am very proud of the diversity in our city and it has very little to do with why the kids didn't get Valentine's. And to hold up Valentine's as some rich, meaningful tradition that we must cling to - hilarious, in my view. It's candy. Get over it.
7:47 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
I'm pretty sure that what this whole kerfuffle says about Malden is that it's a town full of people who have very little to do. If the highlight of your week is the opportunity to indulge in some recreational outrage about such a hilariously trivial and inconsequential "issue" you should consider that you have too much time on your hands.
Katie Bowdridge
8:10 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
Diana, have you had to explain to your child why they weren't allowed to participate in an event that they had previously been able to do because there is too much diversity? This is a smaller issue in a big picture of the negative changes that are affecting how our children are living their childhood in the school setting. All traces of the American culture are being removed. Saying that we have very little to do is ignorant, this has to do with our children and the community that we are raising those children in. I'm sure anyone that has a child would agree that their happiness and well being is what matters in life. If people are chosing to move to this country, then they need to accept the traditions that we celebrate. If they chose not to participate, that is their right, but don't take it away from everyone else.
Pietro Cicolini
8:20 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
I couldn't agree with Katie's reply more.
Scott's blog hits on the point beautifully. That this slippery slope of changing holidays, cultural events one by one, will soon bring us down a steep cliff into a pit of politically correct blandness. No passion, no culture, no traditions. An incredibly boring life with, as you put it, truly nothing to do.
If people like Scott Saia, Katie Bowdridge and Kelly Ilebode don't take the time to voice their conerns over these "inconsequential" issues and stand up for them, then I fear, Americana as we know it will be lost. You may think it silly to think that disallowing Valentine's day and birthday celebrations at school could ever lead to the sterilization of American culture, but if we let these inconsequential issues mound up one by one, it will become a insurmountable mountain to overcome and flatten back.
8:21 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
I've already raised a happy, well adjusted person. Part of that was teaching her to roll with the punches, accept that it's not always about her, have a little perspective, and not whine, because whining isn't cute.
I'd be horrified to have raised a kid who perceives not exchanging valentines at schools as some Great Injustice.
Leonardo DaVinci
10:49 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
Diana this very well written letter, I only wish I had the ability to write was written about citizens and leaders that think like you. Don't be so dismissive and sure of yourself. You should consider that you do not understand, still yet what people are upset about. If all you got out of this letter was this response of your's today, you need to reevaluate your inability, respect for the feelings of your neighbors and realize, you just don't understand the message. I respect your opinion but wholly disagree with your cynical dismissive attitude and arrogance. When you try to make light of very strong community feelings, you only become part of the problem not the solution.There is more to this issue than meets the eye. I challenge you, to write a proper response to Mr. Saia's letter and message, that would make your point a little more salient. I doubt that you could. It's easy to snipe, not so easy to clarify your feelings the way that he did. Bravo Mr. Saia, thanks for putting into context what many of us were feeling.
12:14 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
Pietro, I am confused why you see schools as the agent of cultural indoctrination. Schools are for learning. I would hope that parents teach their kids about the various holidays that are pertinent to their religion and upbringing and do not depend on the teachers to do so - that could result in some more unfortunate misunderstandings.
5:36 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
diana,maybe some of us take holidays and special days like valentines day as a family or american tradition to celebrate,and maybe you do not.does that make us inconsequential,or hilarious as you say,because we do not believe like you.typical liberal behavior,if the person does not agree or think as you do,then demean them by calling them names such as recreational outrage,or inconsequential. HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY Diane
paul surette
5:55 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
"Town full of people who have very little to do"? I don't know what you're reading. Clearly, Diana, you never got a Valentine card, EVER!
Mike G.
8:53 am on Saturday, February 16, 2013
"typical liberal behavior,if the person does not agree or think as you do,then demean them by calling them names"
This irony is delicious. Aren't you the guy who calls everyone who disagrees with you a bleeding heart liberal?
Kelly Ilebode
7:59 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
In my humble opinion, I do not feel that this "issue" is neither inconsequential nor trivial. I also do not believe this "issue" is about purchasing and distributing Valentine Day cards as was stated clearly in this blog. Malden's frustration pot has been simmering for a very long time, and is starting to boil over.
8:15 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
Oh, I understand perfectly well that the "issue" really is. I just think it's hilarious to get all het up insisting that Valentine's Day is some grand American tradition. I guess that they didn't get all the "War on [our white Christian nation]" crap out of their systems at Christmas.
12:01 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
This is what's puzzling me about this uproar. All we are, are the Americans who have lived here longer. And what are we losing by having new Americans in the school? Nothing - in fact we are gaining a tremendous amount. There are many reasons for canceling Valentines. No candy is allowed in the schools for one thing, and the cost is prohibitive for many parents. I am curious why so many have zeroed in on immigrants as the focus of blame. White, Christian culture is the dominant culture, and yet it seems always to feel threatened. Valentine's Day is not even a particularly "American" holiday. I'm sure the candy-fest has been a huge headache for the teachers going on decades now.
Mike G.
12:21 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
Even more puzzling is the notion that immigrants who have become legal American citizens seem to not really be citizens at all, in the eyes of some - just based on what I've read so far.
8:38 am on Saturday, February 16, 2013
Exactly Diana, Hmaz, & Mike G. This is more about a "holiday" celebration. It seems some people are looking for a reason to vent their biased anger. What's amazing to me is that people claim a tradition/holiday to be their own (in terms of religion), but really do not even know it's roots. The roots of Valentine's day are a combination of different past events. One example is the ancient Roman festival of Lupercalia, a fertility celebration commemorated annually on February 15. Pope Gelasius I recast this "pagan festival" as a Christian feast day circa 496, declaring February 14 to be St. Valentine's Day.
Also, this holiday was named St. Valentine after different martyrs named Valentine, who were supposedly martyred on Feb. 14th. It later on became a festival of love, hence, the perfect hallmark holiday. Many people don't even realize, especially the ones that claim religious prejudice, that many of these traditions are PAGAN in root. Yet, scream fire at any chance to unleash pent-up hatred for "the others."
Mike G.
8:59 am on Saturday, February 16, 2013
It's kind of funny that Valentine's Day is being called an "American tradition" when it's celebrated worldwide.
Americans definitely spend more per capita on Valentine's Day than any country in the world, but that doesn't make it "ours".
Just sayin'... :)
10:42 am on Saturday, February 16, 2013
Liss, I was talking to a friend of mine last night (who is Wicca) and he explained to me the pagan roots of Valentine's. I didn't know about it before! Thanks for enlightening this crew, although, to be honest I don't know whether it will sink in :)
Scott Saia
8:11 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
Diana perhaps you are right. As a father to a 3 sport student athlete, providing work to hundreds of employees by way of a successful company I founded, operate and own, the numerous charitable work I do, I really need to find ways to fill the time in my day. Thank you for pointing that out. Since yours is the only negative comment across all media to my blog I will will take your advice under consideration.
Kelly Ilebode
8:43 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
I commend you on keeping your civility Scott. The majority get the intent of your article.
Scott Saia
8:23 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
Thank you Pietro, brilliantly articulated and right on point.
8:28 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
Diane when your children went to school were they able to enjoy traditions like Valentine's Day or perhapd wearing their Halloween costume to school and even having a Christmas party, if so, if asked them I bet they would tell you how much they enjoyed it. Just let children be children
8:34 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
I agree. Let children be children, and stop using them as bludgeons in your political battles. There's no reason on earth that they need to celebrate any particular holiday IN SCHOOL except that you want to ensure the cultural enshrinement of your chosen holidays.
Kelly Ilebode
8:41 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
I am curious Diana......your happy well adjusted person - did you not allow him/her to participate in holiday traditions in school?
8:45 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
Sure, and I'm not saying that they SHOULDN'T have Valentine's Day at the school. I'm just saying that not having it isn't a big deal, and if this had happened when my kid was in school I doubt she'd have considered it a big deal, and if she did I'd have corrected her.
8:46 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
Do you allow your children to believe that every tiny disappointment entitles them to a tantrum?
Katie Bowdridge
9:08 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
Diana, So by correcting her, you are telling her that traditions that she has always celebrated aren't important? What kind of message does that send? This is not about not being able to get candy in the check-out line and throwing a temper tantrum. This is a broader picture of the way this city (and country) is moving. You may be OK with throwing traditions our the window, but for those of us that are not, this is a big deal.
9:15 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
I'd explain to her that our traditions aren't necessarily meaningful to everyone, and that school is for everyone. Celebrate your traditions AT HOME. How hard is that?
Kelly Ilebode
8:51 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
Interesting.....well, as I said - Scott's article is not about just about Valentine's Day.
paul surette
6:00 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
Talking to Diana, is like, well...talking to a stroke patient. Pointless!
8:54 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
we celebrate diversity by banning diversity, kind of Orwellian isn't it
Katie Bowdridge
8:59 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
Again Diana, you are missing the big picture here, it's not all about Valentine's Day. I'm glad that you were able to raise your daughter in a time when she was allowed to participate in these events. I guess you really don't know how you or your daughter would've reacted if some of her childhood memories/events were taken away. Maybe if/when you have grandchildren and you realize how different things are, you may look at things through a new perspective, but have respect for our opinions and the life we would like to see for our children. You were given the opportunity to raise your daughter with these traditions in place.
9:07 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
I see the big picture just fine. You're welcome to celebrate anything you like, and make any life you like for your children. You're the one myopically focused on whether they spend 30 minutes celebrating your chosen holiday IN SCHOOL.
Like I said before, if this had happened when my kid was in school and she were at all upset, I'd have said "Well honey, that's not really what school is for. Why don't you call some friends and we'll have a Valentine's party here at home."
I suppose that requires more effort than expecting the schools to indulge your particular world view and whining on the internet when they don't.
Mike G.
9:07 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
Katie, I grew up during the time that these things started to go away, and let me assure you that I am no worse for the wear. I made plenty of other happy memories with my family and friends, which made small things like not having a valentine's day/Christmas/Halloween party in school completely insignificant and irrelevant.
Kay Sarah
9:44 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
I agree with a number of points made, however, to say that people who are not native Maldonians should not hold public office is ludicrous. I am not a native Maldonian and I am very upset at the direction that our schools are taking. This decision has nothing to do with being from Malden, It has to do with not wanting to see our children hurt and somehow the Principal of the Salemwood feels that some children will be left out or that it is a monetary issue; that some children cannot afford valentines. There have been times when my children have made valentines. It does not have to come to any great expense. We live in a world in which our children don't know how to handle hurt or cope with losing. Out of fear of seeing our children hurt through the process of losing, "everyone becomes a winner". Recently, I have heard this same argument in favor of school uniforms. "Uniforms will create an equal playing field". Well the reality is that not everyone is equal. We live in a capitalistic society and as such we support varied levels of ability and income. It breaks my heart when my children have to deal with losing a game or are left out and not included in certain situations, but that is part of the growth process. It is through the hurts in life that we learn to grow and become better human beings. I fear that the Salemwood as well as other schools are doing a great disservice to our children. We can't protect them from all of life's hurts nor should we.
12:08 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
So the "all men are created equal" part of the Declaration of Independence doesn't sit so well with you, Kay? Just joking :) But bland acceptance of social inequality is puzzling to me. Are you saying that if some kid couldn't afford Valentine's cards he should have to sit through the celebration ashamed and embarrassed? [Buying the craft materials to make Valentines is almost equally expensive.] Why have this celebration in the school at all? You admit yourself that "we can't protect them from life's hurts" so why not just cancel it then? There is no school benefit to the candy-fest.
Mike G.
9:10 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
Parents, you're living vicariously through your children. When your child is grown up, ask them if they are still upset that they didn't have a Valentine's Day party in school. Ask them if they even remember. Guaranteed the answer to at least one of those is "no".
12:41 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
You hit the nail on the head Mike! I grew up like you when things started to go away. Things will change just like they always do and people will also complain. I'm sure people complained when Christmas/Valentine's Day/etc. become commercialized in the 19th century. Let's move on from this issue and focus on making sure children are just loved.
Kelly Ilebode
9:15 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
Sorry Diana - I just saw your questions "Do you allow your children to believe that every tiny disappointment entitles them to a tantrum?"
No, like Scott I have children that are 3 sport student athletes - they learned early on about disappointments.
9:21 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
Then surely they should be able to see that not having a Valentine's Day party at school isn't a big deal or worth pitching a fit over. So why on earth would anyone want to give them the idea that it is?
Maggie Best
9:23 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
You hit the nail right on the head. Kudo's to you.
Krystal Cunha
9:29 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
Well said Scott couldn't agree with you more....as a child we celebrated everything at school I remember those days since kindergarten couldn't wait for the day to do the same with my children..spring and winter concerts were the best the excitement that your parents were coming to hear you sing and perform were the greatest feelings...celebrations at school brought EVERYONE together... I was very disappointed and hurt by this...and so were my children...
9:30 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
when i read the original story, i thought it said they banned valentine cards and panties, then i put my glasses on and it read Parties, that made way more sense,still stoopid though
9:38 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
Well written scott! This has me thinking about mothers and fathers day! Im a single mother should I be upset with the school officials when my sons bring me home happy fathers day cards in June? No I love them! I can't even wrap my brain around how they thought canceling valentines day was a better idea then allowing the tradition to continue!
MaryLouise Torres
9:45 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
OMG...so well put!!! It is exactly how I feel about this whole situation. But a few things...1) My daughter goes to the Salemwood and when she was in one teacher's kindergarten class, they said the Pledge of Allegience every morning. Now she has been transferred to a different kindergarten class and they do not say the Pledge of Allegience at all. Why? I know this is something I would need to discuss with her teacher as well as the assistant principal/principal themselves. But its just very confusing to me why there isn't any uniformity regarding this. 2) I have sent an email and Facebook messaged the Salemwood PTO with my interest in helping out; gave my phone number and email address and have gotten no response. So if there is a minimal involvement in any parent/teacher organizations at the Salemwood, it could be that whomever is in charge of organizing parents is not responding to anyone interested in volunteering their time. 3) My daughter's class did not participate in "Friendship Day". It is also my observation at this school that parents seem to be held at "arms length". My daughter's current kindergarten teacher is awesome and my daughter really enjoys being in her class. There are also other staff my daughter interacts with who are fantastic and very helpful. But there is a somewhat of an uncomfortable vibe at that school. I really wish there were more activities going on at the school to bring the community together.
9:44 am on Thursday, February 21, 2013
It's NOT OKAY that children don't have to salute the flag - it's disgraceful if the Pledge of Allegiance is not said in a classroom....It's a total lack of respect for our military, our veterans, the men and women who fought and have given their lives for this country! IT'S NOT OKAY...and neither is banning celebrations, traditions, holidays, it's NOT OKAY and if we keep accepting it we will end up a nation of robots who celebrate nothing and fear everything...we need to get some backbone here...parents, don't just take these issues lying down, band together and make your wishes heard...stop rolling over for what is deemed politically correct!
9:48 am on Thursday, February 21, 2013
Because indoctrination of children is totally cool, as long as it's the kind you agree with. ANOTHER brain tumor for breakfast, mats? Have you considered oatmeal?
10:03 am on Thursday, February 21, 2013
Friendship day, Holiday Tree, Remembrance Tree, JEES give me a break!!! Happy Holidays, no saluting the flag, what's next? Will Easter will become Happy Rabbit Day, or maybe just ignored altogether? Keep taking away the very foundation of our society as we know it and it will become something we don't know at all - call it what it is and have some spine! Easter, A CHRISTMAS TREE, Merry Christmas! And teach your children to salute the flag AND STAND WHEN THEY DO IT !!! I don't care where you come from, you're here now and this America and this is what this country stands for...don't make it become what it "stood" for! It's called respect and there is so little of that anymore it's enough to make one cringe!
10:13 am on Thursday, February 21, 2013
Diana, I wrote up two comments above explaining the importance of doing activities as a group. It mostly addresses by defining the purpose and thus why is it bothers so many despite it is also a mere holiday at the same time.
However, in this case, it still applies as instilling values and sense of purpose. From the context, you are objecting at mats's outrage of the lack of the Pledge of Allegiance because it is a "ritual" to instill an identity and pride as Americans.
This now leads to possibly semantics, but important semantics. What is indoctrination vs instilling values? It is arguable that the only difference between instilling a value and indoctrinating is the validity of a value. In the case of the Pledge of Allegiance means instilling an identity as an American and without it still have an effect of the opposite by lack of reinforcement. You could also argue that the Pledge of Allegiance is a false and/or negative value and thus indoctrination, but then it is then important to ask why not fostering a common identity not a positive thing.
Even if an argument is made that both values and things deem as indoctrination as false and/or negative values, the lack of such action is still sends its own message. Just telling a story instill a value. So I say it cannot be avoided. So the question is - what stories and what activities should be included?
10:21 am on Thursday, February 21, 2013
Diana, you have become a total bore..I will answer you one last time and from here on ignore you.... it's quite obvious there are more out there who agree with me...my fear is that they are, as usual, afraid and it's that very fear that will prevent them from doing or saying anything in order to protect our values, the foundation of our society and of our country. You may now gallop off on your high horse and have a non religious, non committal, non traditional day!
10:22 am on Thursday, February 21, 2013
I respect the Constitution, and have no patience, respect or use for people who'd salute the flag and ignore the Constitution.
10:27 am on Thursday, February 21, 2013
How is the Pledge of Allegiance disrespectful and ignoring the Constitution?
10:28 am on Thursday, February 21, 2013
Antoine, to my mind the issue with the Pledge of Alleigiance specifically is that you have children making a pledge they don't understand, which is certainly ethically questionable and of course renders that pledge meaningless.
10:29 am on Thursday, February 21, 2013
Besides, I'm not convinced that fostering a group identity is all that awesome. Aren't we supposed to be a nation of rugged individualists?
11:23 am on Thursday, February 21, 2013
Individualism does not mean not sharing any commonality or not building. Like earlier, you argued that everyone can do their celebration at home and invite their friends. One can view that individuality by keeping such traditions and values to respective groups, but that also creates an increasingly fragmented society. It is a common discussion of the "atomization" of society. While that is created by multiple forces, lack of sharing actives - regardless of an activity by largest group or another - does not help.
Like I said earlier, if one message not put in, another will be put in instead. Avoiding such activities like the Pledge of Allegiance because the children are too young means building a foundational values without it with its consequences. So the lack of action have effects as much as doing the action. What separate groupthink that make Mark G snarkly commented and your ethical question of teaching values at a young is not avoidance of instilling such values, but avoiding teaching being critical. Everything we learn and see requires some level of foundational thought and assumption, the risks is not about the foundational thoughts and assumptions, but not being aware of it.
While what foundations are debatable, I don't view Pledge of Allegiance as a negative as you put forward. Your concerns should apply if no thought of why and purpose behind is never eventually raised over the years.
11:32 am on Thursday, February 21, 2013
I have thought about it, and arrived at different conclusions than you have. Frankly, if y'all were representative of "American values," that's not a group I'd be interested in being part of.
Fortunately, actual American values are that I get to do my thing and you get to do yours, and as long as we refrain from violence it's all good.
Scott Saia
9:52 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
Kay Sarah, re-read the blog...I never said non native Maldonians shouldnt hold office or poitions...I said that if they aren't long term residents they should reach out for guidance from those who are to get a better feeling of the pulse of the city. It would be ridiculous to think we could find all the qualified people from just within our residents...no city can. You have to make sure to read the words I wrote before misquoting or attacking when you misread my statements. I never said what you claim, scroll up and read again and I think you will then agree with me.
Kay Sarah
11:04 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
Scott, I re-read your letter and I am so sorry for misquoting you! I agree with your letter and I believe that one of the major problems that we have is that our superintendent and assistant superintendent are coming from a school system in which there is very little parental involvement. Perhaps, after this incident they will take heed before initiating future policies. Hopefully, the Valentines Day issue has been a learning curve in which much reflection will occur and we will all benefit in the long run.
Michael Victor
10:03 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
Nice letter. This is nothing new it is part of the "transforming America" agenda and has been going on for a generation. They could never win at the ballot box 40 years ago so they moved in a stealth manner in our universities and brainwashed idiots like the Ms Keenan's of the world into doing their bidding and brainwashing young
America. A good half of America believes this BS or is so hard trying to make ends meet they have no idea it is going on. Note you have two radical secular progressives on this board right now in Dianna and Mike G. Unfortunately they and their minority ilk through the education system and the courts have taken power in this Country. Most of us will be upset with this but in a few weeks it will blow over and we will be back at work and they will continue to "Transform America" until the working people and their families will not be able to recognize it.
10:13 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
Your particular beliefs aren't entitled to institutionalized privilege. Life's tough that way. Take a moment to be grateful that mine aren't either.
Mike G.
10:16 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
How do you know that I'm a secular progressive? Because my opinion clashes with yours?
Again, I'm sorry that you are so insecure and unable to handle cognitive dissonance without resorting to, as Broadway Jay might say, "Alinsky tactics".
Have a nice day, "Michael Victor".
12:42 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
There seems to be a pretty clear pattern here. Government sends marching orders, Diana and Mike G. start marching.
Mike G.
1:35 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
Another person uncomfortable with a dissenting opinion. *shrug*
1:51 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
News Flash Mike... you're not the dissenting opinion. I know this is hard for you to comprehend seeing you're such a "free thinker", but it happens to be true.
1:56 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
News flash: we have no institutionalized religion in the United States. The schools are by default secular though students are allowed to express their beliefs within the school environment. Not sure what this has to do with Valentine's Day, which is just about cards and candy, but I thought I would bring it up. :)
Mike G.
2:02 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
Ok Andrew, thanks for your valuable input into this discussion.
2:04 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
News flash: we have no institutionalized religion in the United States... unless we count Christmas, which most govt institutions take an entire week off to celebrate.
2:19 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
Andrew, Christmas is not a religion. It's a religious holiday. Schools close around that time because they're aware most people would take it off anyway. It's very practical. Practical solutions work for everyone.
2:20 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
Glad I could contribute Mike! Now you and the English professor can return to correcting spelling and punctuation.
Mike G.
2:22 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
I don't know who you're referring to Andrew, and I don't correct spelling and punctuation anyway - I'd have way too much work to do on this site if I were :)
11:44 am on Thursday, February 21, 2013
Then it shouldn't be allowed to "blow" over! That's the stealthy part of it - keep people struggling to get through life and they don't pay attention to what's going on around them..as far as working people that is a whole other outrageous subject. It no longer pays to be work, just look at your neighborhoods, look at the lunch lines in schools, free ticket all around! America is already transformed and not for the better...I already don't recognize it, especially when I hear of issues such as this Valentine's Day ban, not having to salute your flag...I don't want to be redundant but if no one takes a STRONG stand soon it will be too late for our future generations...
Mike G.
11:53 am on Thursday, February 21, 2013
Last I checked, I got a paycheck when I went to work, so I'd say it does pay.
Oh wait, am I interrupting another assault on the poor? Please, continue.
11:57 am on Thursday, February 21, 2013
I'm interested in how much time mats spends observing school lunch lines.
Kay Sarah
10:14 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
Mike G. It is not about missing Valentines Day, that has most people upset. It is that our schools are becoming robotic. Our children are being taught to the test; there are no parties or celebrations and now we are considering uniforms. I believe that people are so upset because holiday celebrations are being tossed in the name of "diversity" or "inclusion". Why does one have to be traded up for the other. In fact I don't know any teacher who allows valentines without first saying that if you bring them in then you have to give one to everyone. Valentines promotes the true meaning of inclusion.
Mike G.
10:25 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
Kay, what I got from what the principal said in her statement was that they simply didn't have the resources to be fair to every tradition and culture that goes to their school. Further, I could even see them being unwilling to be fair to every culture and tradition; whether it's laziness, money, resources, time, whatever the case - they are just not willing to do it. That's what I got from the principal's letter - without looking for subtext, or without putting my tinfoil hat on to dig for some sort of conspiracy; just plain straightforward English.
I'm also betting this is a strategy to deal with administrative headaches, like maybe one of the families that (justly or unjustly) feels slighted that their culture was left out of the school's holiday agenda/curriculum. What do you think happens then? I'll tell you - they start writing letters, making phonecalls, and doing all these things to make the administration's life a nightmare - maybe even so far as to get legal counsel. That costs time and money for the schools. Wouldn't you rather that be put into something useful, like oh, I don't know - educating children so that the US is no longer ranked less than 15th in the world across the board among all concentrations of academics?
Look, just because I've presented the views above doesn't mean I agree with the fact that these things are going away, I just don't think it's that big a deal in the long run, and maybe it prevents more headaches than it causes.
Scott Saia
10:28 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
Let's remove the conversation from the national agenda...when that happens we lose focus on the local issues. If you want to change the national picture regardless of which side you are on, you have to start at the local level. Strong local communities will change the agenda and the picture on a national level. Malden has the opportunity to be at the forefront of change...to show how a community ravaged by crime and violence and tough economic times as well as years of poor decisions and a lack of vision can recover and thrive because the citizens are focused on what is right and what it takes to get there. Look no further than your own street, keep your focus close to home...if everyone starts with their own neighborhood it will change faster and more efficient and more unified than you could have ever imagined. Forget the national debate...it gets us nowhere...change our neighborhoods and we will change the country...
Mike G.
10:31 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
Scott, I actually DO agree with your point there - and to that point, what if the parents who are upset about this band together and hold a Valentine's Day party for the kids? And they can give out their Valentine's Day cards there, give/receive candy, and parents/neighbors can be social as well.
Wouldn't that sort of show some solidarity between people who support this? Wouldn't that create a feeling of community and unification? Wouldn't it create nice memories and maybe even a new tradition for your children?
Michael Victor
10:35 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
Funny Mike G. neither you nor your side-kick Diana denied it. Bringing up "Alinsky" says it all. "Alinsky" tactics are exactly what has been going on in our Universities and then into our secondary schools once the "Greatest Generation" retired. Push the envelope, and pull back until they are asleep again. Thank goodness there are people like the person who made an issue of this and like Mr Saia willing to speak up when it has gone too far.
Mike G.
10:38 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
But that's exactly what you're doing, you're attempting to ridicule me to prove your own point without presenting any sort of cohesive argument to counter my points. That's pretty weak, but not surprising for someone who brings little to a conversation.
Honestly, I won't deny or confirm what you've said because it's so ridiculous that I refuse to acknowledge it. You don't know who I am, you don't know my background, so it deserves very little attention.
Chris Caesar
11:58 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
Oh please, I am pretty sure Alinsky never weighed in on banning holidays in public schools. You guys need to stop listening to Glenn Beck and Alex Jones.
Rick Harris
10:48 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
I am not exactly sure how removing any reference to any religious or cultural holiday is honoring diversity. Valentine's Day is hardly offensive and it would be a big stretch to say that it is a religious holiday. If the Principal and the Superintendent are going to jump on the diversity bandwagon you don't do it by trying to hide any reference to individual ethnicity and culture. You embrace them all, learn about them and learn their cultural significance, not pretend like they don't exist. What a silly place for them to put their energy.
Ken Howard
11:15 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
Well put indeed.
Though I think many are missing the biggest question we should be asking Principle Keenan and Dr. DeRuosi. Why this year?
My daughter is in 7th grade, and has been in the Salemwood since Kindergarten. From Kindergarten through 6th grade she was allowed to hand out Valentine's Day cards. Why the sudden change? The school was as diverse back then as it is today.
There were even several years they celebrated her Birthday. I had to supply the goodies, but I was ok with that. And I always brought enough for the whole class, so no one was left out.
So, I ask why did you cancel Valentine's Day for the first time this year? And, while you're at it, why can't the kids celebrate Birthday's?
Scott Saia
11:21 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
Thanks Ken, and appreciate you adding your concerns to the issue. I will tell you this, don't look to me to ask those questions...as a parent it is your right to demand answers. I would advise the PTA to hold a forum at Salemwood to allow you to pose your questions and get the answers you deserve from the principal and superintendent.
Kay Sarah
11:24 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
Does anyone know when the next school committee is? Perhaps, we should all show up to show them how upset we are. It is all in the numbers. These are politicians and they want to get re-elected. Let's show them how we feel.
11:26 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
Wow, this is really getting crazy. Like they say, don't mix politics and religion in your conversation because they come out of the woodwork. I am a long time Malden resident and I love Malden. Malden has had its good years and bad years, We were the "All American City" when I was growing up and I was so proud. We have new grade schools, many additions to the High School and the city is putting out some great people to try and keep this Country the best it can be. I grew up with best friends that were African American, Jewish, Spanish, Puerto Rican and they were great friends. Growing up we did look forward to, Valentines Day, St Patrick's Day, many Jewish Holidays, Halloween, Christmas, etc, etc, etc, if I forgot any.. The schools are getting crazy with people who are worried about everyone's feelings. If you DO NOT believe in the holiday's then let THESE parents explain to their children how they feel and leave the kids and family's who DO want their children to experience the fun of these holiday's have the joy of dressing up, wearing that special outfit, giving the cute boy, or adorable girl a "You are my Valentine Card".
11:27 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
continued from previous note above: If it is a money problem, the dollar stores does have them for less than a dollor, or making them on paper is so much fun. My grandkids sit at the tables picking out the special card for the special person. If you're Irish, you were your green, if you're Italian you were your orange and everyone gets a laugh at it. Remember, these are just kids, they are only young for a short time, then they have to deal with all the different opinions when they grow up, so give them a break, for THEIR SAKE, to stay young for a short time. Good job Scott, you are doing such a great job for the youth of Malden and they will talk about you to their kids and grandkids for years to
11:39 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
I will start this comment by pointing to Confucius and his emphasis of rituals. He emphasized greatly of how important to keep and maintain rituals. This commonly get translated to thinking that its about Asian traditionalism, it is not.
Personally, I'm not a fan of the holiday, my eight grade version of me would shed no tears. Even for adults, it been commercialized and damped by obligations.
Yet, it is a ritual and Confucius saw its importance in molding culture and mindset. Confucius would recognize why customs and holidays that looks so trivial like something as simple as a handshake or sparing a few minutes to a holiday is actually so important. Thus, to remove rituals is to undermine the culture. This is what I see, but no one able to be able to articulate this as it looks so insignificant. How it is only a holiday even if should be celebrated (as I see one commentator above concede), it is so trivial that any energy expend on the issue feels like overkill. Thus arguments get stuck trying to elevate significance saying it is worldwide or qualifiers agreeing that is not the end of the world. Not to mention the muddling view someone a liberal or conservative or rough equivalent.
Thus why it struck a chord. Rituals are paradoxical of trivial and not at the same time. Thus why suggestions to relegate from an entire classroom to a likely a subset of friends at a home feels lacking and the need to be for all than keep it as something for 1 out of 65 cultures.
david mokal
1:53 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
@ Antoine SHUT UP ! Geesh whats this got to do with Valentines. You must have sat at your puter for hours. Ace sells a creme called Monkey Butt and its for people who set on their puters for a long time. Not Kidding .
2:49 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
@David Mokal - It has everything to do with Valentines because that's the reasoning to why it is such a big deal.
It is written to explain why it is good to have these events rather than celebrate none in the name of fairness of all cultures and/or arguments that we should just go along because it is so trivial even though one disagree with a policy. Between all the cultures, there needs to be something shared to unite. As small as a Valentine's party, that's how commonality as Americans are built. Keeping all celebration out of school and thus separate is how you prevent commonality as everyone would do their things within own little group. That why's I brought up Confucius and the concept of rituals because he saw the importance of things like this.
From my understanding, you are supportive of keeping Valentine's and probably other celebrations in schools rather than shut them all out. So attacking me does little to help as if you can comprehend the above, I agree we need to keep celebrations in school - including Valentine's. And so your insults only hurts your credibility by being an ass. If that is your name in real life in this city, I'll remember to react in the way any man would if you said that to his face.
2:57 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
That's a really interesting point, Antoine, thank you. I still don't think schools should be in the position of enforcing cultural traditions, but you've given me something to think about.
david mokal
7:29 pm on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Sorry about that Antoine but I dont know what the hell ya said. This is about keeping a lil love in the schools. Thats it. Nothin to do with Confusious or rituals. Has nothing to do with Liberals and Conservatives. Its about the kids. A tradition. Something that is good. But you see these people want to be idiots. Be the first to start rejection of traditions. How stupid can someone be if they dont know that 76 different Nationalities and religions do not know what a heart with a card means. Im sure they all know. What's Next??? You have no common sence.
broadway Jay
11:59 am on Friday, February 15, 2013
Cupid, draw back your bow (ohoh), and let your arrow go !! Straight to your lovers heart.. P.S. Just divert the arrow around Malden !
broadway Jay
12:16 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
After reading these blog entries on this thread, I can't help to admit that I have this Tom Jones song in my head... Love is like candy on a shelve... The sweetest things in life are free.. Chris Caesar, how did you surprise your Girlfriend/wife on Valentines ?
Chris Caesar
5:11 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
My friends have advised me that if your Valentine's plans include your two cats, they're probably best kept to yourself.
Richelle Caso Bottari
12:18 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
Nice Broadway Jay. Lol divert it to Diana too.
Leonardo DaVinci
1:03 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
Bravo Scott, it takes a man of high caliber, accomplishments and intelligence to frame this subject, as well as I believe anyone could. To me, a very impressive letter, and as well written as any I have read on Patch on any subject to date, but of course there are those who have different views, and always seem to be arguing a perspective that we are not discussing.
I won't try to make anymore sense myself of what took place, that you have already. There will be few with dissenting views, who can argue coherently against this principles of your letter, which made it crystal clear what we are all upset about. I wish everyone on this site could frame a subject as well as you did because it saves a lot of time. Thank you very much for you great effort. It sould go a long way in helping all of us understand with more precision, the importance of this outrage against the white washing of America's traditions by very flawed reasoning. I hope this discussion is taken up at the next school committtee meeting and I hope we all attend.
david mokal
1:49 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
They should nip this in the butt and get rid of DR DOOM and let the kiddos get their Valentines Back. I would never think this crap would happened here. But then again nothing surprises me. Lots of mean people movin in. Buyer Beware!
david mokal
1:56 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
For all the people who spoke out on the news Thank You.Your true patriots. You gave the kids one big Heart. True Americans.
david mokal
2:00 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
Whats the matter Diana? No one ever give you a Valentine in school. Dont you think with all the Bullying and happinings that go on a lil Valentine would be nice. You probably would like to shoot the Easter Bunny too.
Mark Salamone
2:30 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
Why would you take time out of your life to write about Valentine's day of all things......what's the point! Diana is right all of this madness stems from people trying to live vicariously through your children.
2:40 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
It just struck me that my son hasn't asked me to buy Valentine's stuff for ages - since he was about 7 or 8 years old. Did the Beebe do away with Valentine's years ago? Don't know/don't care.
3:04 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
great points in the article. How can such a diverse country be so contradictory. American cultures are quickly becoming the minorities through political correctness. We are expected to respect other cultures and disregard our own because 1 out of the 25,000 people in this country is offended. I can assure you that there are 10 times as many in the other direction.
America, is losing it's touch. Bring back child beating, let kids be kids, and stop defending mental instabilities.
3:27 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
diversity is a city where scuba divers live, we ain't got no time for that
Cera Nolan
5:20 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
Valentine's Day isn't religious first of all.. Growing up in Malden and attending Ferryway from 1st-8th grade, people of all cultures participated in passing out of cards/candy without getting butt-hurt about it.. No one was left out. I also don't remember anyone being so poor that they were unable to afford a few valentines, this isn't the Bronx. Also: it's not like the kids are forced to participate, if it's that offensive then the parent should keep them home that day. I understand that there are a lot of cultures celebrated in the school, but those aren't all traditional AMERICAN cultures. Since we are in AMERICA, we should be able to celebrate our long-lived traditions considering we are a "FREE COUNTRY". Just like you're free to celebrate any tradition you desire. If you don't happen to celebrate these common American traditions because you most likely immigrated to this country, then don't celebrate it... You came here to be an American, so you should accept the traditions we follow even if you don't comply yourself.. Taking away a commercial holiday isn't protecting anyone's religious beliefs... Also the bullshit idea that school is for learning and not for passing around candy...oh my, they are probably SO set back by one day of relaxation and fun.. They MUST be doomed...
10:46 am on Saturday, February 16, 2013
If you went to school committee meetings you would know how many homeless kids there are. "This isn't the Bronx."--what do you even mean? And did you know candy is not allowed in the schools anyway? True fact.
12:04 pm on Saturday, February 16, 2013
"You came here to be an American, so you should accept the traditions we follow even if you don't comply yourself.. " -People come here to be "Free"
"we should be able to celebrate our long-lived traditions considering we are a "FREE COUNTRY"" -
What long-lived traditions? Are you kidding me?? Ask a Native American about this long-lived tradition.
"Also the bullshit idea that school is for learning and not for passing around candy.."
- When people have to resort to foul language, it's a sign of a limited vocabulary.
Please don't try & act as if this is all about a 'long-lived tradition'. You have way too much anger in your speech to be so upset.
"I also don't remember anyone being so poor that they were unable to afford a few valentines, this isn't the Bronx."
So people who live in the Bronx are, that poor? And you're trying to convince me that you're not being discriminatory? Is this Christian-like speech? Is this American-like speech? I'm confused.
Well, you're well on the way to showing the world we're a bunch of ignorant, uneducated, angry people here in Malden.
Where are you getting your info from??? On Thurs. my child brought home valentine's from Hindu & Muslim kids in the class. Guess it wasn't on TV
Anna Bucciarelli
7:05 am on Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Scuse me? The Bronx? How much do you really know about the Bronx, may I ask? I was born and raised in the Bronx and I want to point out that it was a wonderful, nurturing neighborhood in which I lived and thrived ... please, do not believe all you hear and read, as in any city, there are good and bad. Neighbors knew neighbors' kids and looked out for them and kids had fun, behaved and many went on to become outstanding citizens. Please, please, be careful not to characterize the Bronx or any other place in a bad light unless you really know whereof you speak.
Cera Nolan
5:27 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
Kids in elementary and middle school don't see Valentine's Day as a cultural issue anyway, they see it as a day that they can escape the books and relax with their school friends. There is nothing wrong with that. I don't feel any less educated because I passed out candy 1 out of 180 days. It's not shaping them to be a strong human being by being okay with the fact that Valentine's Day was taken away, I'm almost positive the majority of the kids wouldn't be that torn up about it. It's the point that they took away an innocent day of fun to make a point of keeping diversity supported in our schools... But I can't make sense of the idea that taking away a non-religious holiday to celebrate LOVE (something people of all cultures are involved with) would protect the diversity...
9:33 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
They ended the game with that pedophile song " Sweet Caroline". I still don't understand why they play that stoopid song at Sox games, it drives me crazy
4:33 pm on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Ah Cera, but it IS religious -for my life I could not see how Valentine's Day went against anyone's race or religion - THEN it dawned on me, you see we're forgetting it's SAINT Valentine's Day...not Valentine's Day....it's a Christian holiday....light dawns on Marble..head! sometimes I am just an idiot!
6:05 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
Hmmmm denial is a river in da Egypt and diversity is a university in da hood? See what I am learning from all of this
paul surette
6:07 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
Just some food for thought, folks. Carol Keenan was in my third grade class at Holmes Elementary. I distinctly remember her passing out Valentine's Day cards. Just sayin'.
6:12 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
I remember passing out, but may have been in college, not third grade
Mike G.
7:40 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
Ricky, forget this Valentine's Day crap, let's talk about an important issue like, why is Chris Bourque STILL on the power play?
7:55 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
Well the power play looked good at the end of the first. It hasn't really mattered who was on the power play, but as long as Marchand and Bergeron is out there that all that matters. Is that my valentine to the little ball of hate....ugh
9:11 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
Did not see him get hurt, but that last goal hurt a lot
Mike G.
9:14 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
I didn't mean this game, but he's been playing like he's skating through molasses.
6:59 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
Why can't we really diversify and celebrate everything? How could these children learn about other cultures if they are stripped of the opportunity?
7:56 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
I want to celebrate the repeal of prohibition and recreational use of recreational plant thingys in Colorado
8:53 pm on Friday, February 15, 2013
Diana...yikes. Michele you make a great point. Isn't that the point to accept the diversity and embrace it?
Phyllis Grossi
12:58 am on Saturday, February 16, 2013
Spending 20 minutes after lunch giggling while you hand out Valentines and enjoying cupcakes or cookies cannot be bad for anyone; and in the higher grades, to be able to buy a classmate (or crush) a flower and have it sent to their homeroom or to "rent" members of the chorus to sing to your special friend, well, those are just traditions that should go on forever. Those traditions build good-will and lasting friendships. It takes the focus away from all the other pressures our kids are under, if just for a short time. Adult life is hard - let them be kids and enjoy these niceties. Yes, Diana, school is for education - all types of education - and learning to be kind and appreciate each other is part of that. Our traditions may not make sense to everyone whether they're personal traditions, family traditions or cultural traditions. Nonetheless, they're traditions and one as simple as Valentines Day with it's message of love and laughter and friendship is so important to children and adults alike. We all take our lives so seriously as we should most of the time. Taking a little break from that (and let's remember, this is not something that takes up the entire school day but just a short time) can be so good for the soul. I am ignoring the bigger picture on purpose....I wish for everyone to take some time to be kind and happy. The bigger issues we can all take up with the "powers that be" at a later time. The original issue, after all, was only Valentines Day.
9:07 am on Saturday, February 16, 2013
It's completely disgusting that some have chosen to unleash their seething anger, under the veil of furor over not celebrating a pagan holiday. <The correct term for Valentine's Day. I point this out because the people screaming the loudest on this board seem to proclaim their religious/American traditions are being stripped by some sort of agenda of the "others". I guarantee you the people that complained about this 'day' to the school were not the 'others,' but rather the same people considered to be like "you." The majority of complaints I've heard (from the mouth of parents, not the big black box in my living room or 3rd party) were that they could not afford to buy valentine's for everyone in their child's class &/or that they did NOT want their child feeling left out. These people were in no way culturally diverse-type people. Fear-mongering & hatred only hurt yourselves & your children that are being subjected to this evil mentality. We are one world & there is only one race: Human! We could have a whole history lesson about how this country was formed, where our families 'originated' from, & other such obviously trivial facts about the real roots of our traditions, but it apparently would not subdue the seething vitriol that's oozing out of many computer screens. Don't be blinded by your anger. Turn off your tv's & your radios. Get out & meet the "others." Take time to talk with them, ask them what 'they' think - get it straight from them and not some biased outlet.
paul surette
7:02 am on Sunday, February 17, 2013
Liss, I have to take exception to what you said ..."I point this out because the people screaming the loudest on this board seem to proclaim their religious/American traditions are being stripped by some sort of agenda of the "others". Those were YOUR words. As I stated before on this post, I am an atheist. I grew up atheist, as did my parents. Yet we still celebrated the traditional Christmas Holiday. Does THAT make me 'one of those religious' people? I think not. Thanksgiving Day...a day founded by some Puritans and Indians who broke bread together in appreciation for their bounty. I celebrate this day as well. Does that make me a Puritan as well? NO, it does not. So I, like some of my fellow contributors here would appreciate you leaving out the religious reference, as if someone of faith, who wants to hold on to their long-celebrated traditions, not be labeled as some sort of kook for doing it. THAT, is offensive! Signed, This Atheist
11:39 am on Saturday, February 16, 2013
Thank you Cera - My name is not Lisa ;)
You have a lot of anger - Somehow, someone who has an education is discredited to mere 'facts.' As if, let's just pick and choose which fact we would like to apply today. The world doesn't work that way. I feel sorry that instead of trying to learn things, you're just trying to bury them by insulting others. I am not missing the point. Is this what you're teaching your children? Hate others without knowing them - just because the principal sent a letter about diversity? Did you ask any of the parents of these 'diverse' children if they cared if their children participated in this? If not, which by your comments it's easy to tell, then you have proven my point. Stop.Listening.To.Your.TV! Stop regurgitating what other people are saying and get your own opinion. Just because you repeat the same 'opinions' over and over will not make them true. I'm not a scholar - I paid attention in school. I'm sorry if you never learned true facts, but they do exist. It's scary that parents are out there teaching their children this anger/hate without even taking the time to figure out what they're really angry about - Usually we fear the unknown, which in turn makes us hate it/them. You don't need google to know that.
1:20 pm on Saturday, February 16, 2013
Boy oh boy, after I leave my message here, I am going to try and find out how to get out of this thread from Scott's concerned letter about Valentine's Day, it is making me sick and concerned for what we as parents have brought to the new generation.. Pagan holiday, are you kidding me.. I have 3 grown children that were educated in Malden & grandchildren, some in Malden, others in different cities. Who love the Valentines days parties. That is what is wrong with this world, not the fact that back when this day WAS celebrated , unfortunately that all there was , they WERE NOT educated, that was their beliefs. I sort of thought we learned and grew from this in AMERICA, the land of the free, were our great grandparents came to free us from that, and let us have a better life. Looks like we are heading back there. Taking away a few days/hours a year to celebrate these holiday is crazy but someone had the time to goggled it and saw what it said and felt the need to remind us that we did these horrible things, you need to question your belief. Parents with children in the school system need to get a meeting together with Parents and Children and tell then your concerns pros and cons… from a concerned senior citizen!!!
8:46 pm on Saturday, February 16, 2013
Wow... and the craziness continues. Ma'am, I did not google, I did research on different religions in college. I'm sure you could find the same info. online. The issue is that people continue to make this about America and America's traditions and implying that it must've been another religion/ethnicity that must've complained about the holiday. The assumption is made because of what's been said in the news. America cannot move forward when people are constantly on the defense when it comes to other people of different cultures. Repeating this is the true definition of insanity. Obviously this madness will just continue so I will just end it there.
paul surette
6:51 am on Sunday, February 17, 2013
Maureen, I used to work with a woman who NEVER lets her kids out for trick-or-treat on Halloween ....her reasoning: "I won't give any validation to Satan", yet this same woman drinks and fornicates with other women,,,,,behind her husband's back. Talk about hypocritical humor. Would you agree?
Mike G.
11:56 am on Sunday, February 17, 2013
Why is it that if someone presents a fact that nobody else brought up that it has to have been "goggled"?
I suppose this is the "Michael Victor" school of thought, that actually knowing historical facts makes you an "intellectual egg-head"; which is pretty hilarious, as he's one of the biggest supporters of MVRCS. Pretty interesting overall, if you ask me.
8:08 pm on Saturday, February 16, 2013
I will stand behind Ms. Keenan, I had her as a teacher in both middle school and high school, she has always had what's best for us in mind. For some kids it can be pretty traumatizing to see everyone else get valentines, and get denied. Just like every other holiday, it's a personal thing whether or not you celebrate.
paul surette
6:39 am on Sunday, February 17, 2013
Let me guess, Bruce. I bet you also endorse giving every kid in Little League a trophy, even if they came in last place. If that's the case, why stop there? Let's give the Red Sox a trophy for being a champion of LAST place in their division. Secondly, Valentine's Day is not a holiday. It's a tradtion! Do you know anyone that gets paid for being off on Valentine's Day? I sure don't. Hate to tell you, Bruce....but there are a few of us left who actually still have a spine, and tell the minority in a group that they aren't getting their way, when it is the majority that rules. Oh, and a neat thing about elections.....the majority always wins. Clearly, being Miss Keenan's student has done you somewhat of a disservice if you can't tell the difference between a 'majority' and a 'minority'.....and you're welcome!
9:25 am on Monday, February 25, 2013
Paul, the condition on weather or not we define something a holiday isn't the question here, infact your "Tradition." is just a bs hallmark holiday to sell greeting cards. I just don't like the idea that any future children of mine should have to be subjected to any "Tradition." that will make them feel self-conscious.
Michael Readon
2:01 am on Sunday, February 17, 2013
Valentine like many echoed is a world wide holiday. Most world cultures celebrate love one way or another. Cancelling Valentine's celebration is the veil for deeper issues, some of them resentment towards new residents and changing demographics. What about a diverse staff that would teach Maldonian educators about the world beyond Malden? If the leadership were interacted and open to learn from other cultures, they wouldn't make such a fool out of themselves in front of the nation or even the whole wide world.
paul surette
6:46 am on Sunday, February 17, 2013
And you're right, Michael. This latest incident at Salemwood is but another thread in the fabric of continued political correctness. I grew up atheist, but our family always embraced the tradtional Christmas holiday. Now you can't get a retail employee to say Merry Xmas anymore. That's bull ---- to me! The 'giving tree'? What the hell is that? And this one kills me the most. Usually we atheists are blamed for the uproar over roadside crash sites that have a crucifix or two. Personally, I could care less. Truth be told, it's the 'secularists' who are vehemently against ANY religious reference in public, and not the 'average' atheist. I think the secularists are another spectrum of 'political correctness'. The bottom line for me. These are MY traditions, and I won't let some dolt tell me what I can and can't embrace as a tradition!
8:14 am on Sunday, February 17, 2013
Liss, We have moved forward. Every generation that has arrived in America has moved forward. Parents have try to make their families have a little bit more then they did when they grow up so on and so forth. I have more then my parents did, my chidren have a kittle more then i had, but now i am afraid for my grandskids. What is happening here is a step back!!! These are grade school kids who are learning new things everyday. They are learning new cultures and making new friends and no one is seeing anything other than they are boys and girls and they like the same things they do! It's the adults that are seeing the differences that I am reading here and eventually the kids will! We have been celebrating these little traditions for years why should it have to change now because some adults feel it is hurting the kids!!
Anna Bucciarelli
7:33 pm on Monday, February 18, 2013
Good statement Maureen ... indeed, why do we have to change to please the powers? Far as I can tell, no kid has complained at all, but if I were one of the kids in this school I sure would ... Valentine card exchanging is nothing more than fun and there is not a thing wrong with having fun even in school. That's what makes going to school worthwhile for some kiddos, a chance to interact spontaneously and carefree one day of the year. How wrong can that be? Not at all, methinks.
9:55 am on Sunday, February 17, 2013
Where does it say anywhere in the official statement that anybody, particularly an immigrant parent, complained?!?! Why is everyone jumping all over some nameless "adult" who "felt it was hurting the kids"? Does this adult even exist?!?? I am done with this thread. It is too nuts.
Mike G.
12:00 pm on Sunday, February 17, 2013
Exactly HMaz, that's been my entire point throughout this whole ridiculous saga, and it's why I still have the $100 that I had bet to see if anyone could tell me where it said anywhere that someone complained or was offended by this "tradition", or by any "American traditions".
david mokal
11:30 am on Sunday, February 17, 2013
The Immigrant parent was right in what he said. He's more AMERICAN than lots of you posters out here. I was proud that he stood up for.
11:16 am on Tuesday, February 19, 2013
I'm a little late in commenting but I have to say something.
You still don't get the entire picture. Yes, it's not the end of the world that the children can't celebrate birthdays, Valentines day, Christmas and anything else in school. The problem is that this WILL NOT end here. If we just keep sitting back and accepting these "rules" because someone somewhere will be insulted, it will continue and at some point it will start to affect our everyday lives. How will you feel in the future if you are told that you are no longer allowed to display Christmas decorations in your home? How will you feel if you are told that you cannot wear that outfit because it offends someone. If we don't stand up for our rights now, it will come to this some day.
12:00 pm on Tuesday, February 19, 2013
You know, there are very effective medications available to manage paranoia and other anxiety-related symptoms.
12:10 pm on Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Diana, that is just needlessly snarky and insulting to say you disagree that there is no slippery slope.
Chris O
12:06 pm on Tuesday, February 19, 2013
These comment boards have become a place for several people to bully and insult others. Having an opinion that differs from yours doesn't make you better than anyone else or give you the right to insult them. Is your life in the real world so empty you have to lash out here?
2:22 pm on Tuesday, February 19, 2013
She thinks that the government is going to forbid Christmas decorations in private homes. I'm just trying to help.
4:14 pm on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
That's next on the list, it's coming - FYI, I don't think that person you referred to is imaginary...
curious....are you really just an innocent poster? are you getting paid to stir the pot? You know, just upset the balance or maybe rile things up a bit? Or do you really feel the way you do...nah..impossible!
7:28 pm on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Do I really think that the majority of you must have had a brain tumor for breakfast? Absofreakinlutely.
9:28 am on Monday, February 25, 2013
You can do whatever you want on YOUR own property. Public property is a very different story.
david mokal
2:42 pm on Tuesday, February 19, 2013
They will, This is Communism ! Now they will shoot the Easter Bunny. Thats next. You never ever loose Tradition. What kind of Meds are you on Diana.
3:36 pm on Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Could someone please explain to David about the Easter Bunny? I just don't have the heart.
Mike G.
4:16 pm on Tuesday, February 19, 2013
David, the Easter Bunny was created by Karl Marx. Sorry.
3:26 pm on Tuesday, February 19, 2013
No one's on a roll unless it actually an argument actually influences someone's opinion. So far all see is two sides virtually unaffected in opinion with an occasional insult or snort and an occasional cheering by by others who already think the same long before reading any comment here.
5:55 pm on Tuesday, February 19, 2013
For my argument to influence your opinion, your opinion would have to be considered and reality-based. For your opinion to influence my opinion, your opinion would have to be considered and reality-based. Surely, you can see we've reached an impasse.
Anna Bucciarelli
6:34 pm on Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Antoine, you miss my point. I agree with you more than Diana and was simply acknowledging that she is like a dog with a bone, a champ at chewing on peoples' comments and keeps on rolling on and on and on ... does it on all posts while correcting writing skills and spelling, punctuation, etc., etc. It's her way to make points (she thinks).
6:36 pm on Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Points with who? You people? That's more hilarious than getting your panties bunched about Valentine's Day cards.
Mike G.
6:55 pm on Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Diana, I found these sides launching across the galaxy -- I think they're yours.
david mokal
3:40 pm on Tuesday, February 19, 2013
I luv the Easter Wabbitt and we allways had the Wabbitt on the wall on the school. Traditions. Pictures of eggs and Easter Baskets. Now the Commies are going to kill the Wabbitt cause they dont want it in scholl. So There!
Joe Gray
4:09 pm on Tuesday, February 19, 2013
I'm an immigrant and not white. I'm annoyed at the Valentines Day ban. Diversity is celebrating the culture and traditions of the country that you are in. That is what I did when I lived abroad in other countries like Germany and other cultures like in Georgia.
I learned to speak German in Europe, celebrate with the locals in Switzerland, Carnival in the Caribbean and ride a mechanical bull with the other southerners in the south. From Cinco de Mayo to Diwali, I do it all here in America. The fact that we're slowly abandoning our own cultural traditions here in America because of some sense of self-inflicted guilt is horrid. The guilt of being American is made official by the school system and indoctrinated into our children. Another generation will be lost. I may be part of a shrinking few, but I'll never feel guilty for being American. Not going down that path with those ready to jettison the little perks and distinctions of being American.
Leonardo DaVinci
5:14 pm on Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Joe Gray, I liked the way you put this, and I firmly believe the majority of us feel this way. I do not like the school version of why they did this and very few of the people on this site do. To me, it was a political and expedient answer because they caught unprepared. They did not do their homework!
All or some part of our family at one time were immigrants. Most who spoke a different language than English but we learned. We assimilated and it was our goal, into the American society. Diversity is built into this system. If we were Greek we still kept the Greek traditions. I see the Chinese, also doing the same. Every culture does it more or less, but do we need the school system to diversify our masses? I don't think so.I'm very proud of being of Italian ancestry but I also call myself an American first and foremost. Those immigrants like my father whose children were all born in America looked at their children, as natural American citizens and that was our goal or why immigrate. You learned to speak German in Germany and celebrated the customs of locals in other lands. When in Rome do as the Romans do is an old saying but it seems to fit here in this case and many are asking why not? Scott talked about how vocal many of our citizens have been about this subject, but he pointed out how these decisions by the school system seems mostly behind closed doors. I hope I did not misquote him but I think I got the gist of what he meant and I agree with you both. Nicely put!
6:54 pm on Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Leo, it's "Jist"
I wanted to beat old snarky to it.
7:03 pm on Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Actually, it is "gist." See, I'm an equal-opportunity spelling corrector! ;)
david mokal
7:31 pm on Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Next it will be Santy. You'll see ! NO PICTURES OF SANTY ! They will be telling the lil kids "Hey You know Santy cant fly" Your Momma told you when she was High! Thats why. God forbid if there is a Nativity Scene they'll blow it up with C 4. On the serious side with all the violence and bullying in school I would welcome a lil girl given a lil boy in school a valentine.
david mokal
7:33 pm on Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Diana you can correct me anytime. Yer good with me.
11:57 pm on Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Welcome to the thread, Mr. Gray. Now, please let us know how you or anybody else thinks anybody complained, or that the change was made to appease any immigrants. I don't think you will find any evidence for that, but if you do I would like to know about it. Thanks.
Leonardo DaVinci
2:04 am on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Both Principal Keenan and Dr. DeRuosi pointed out that the diversity of the school was a main component in arriving at and supporting the decision.
According to the letter send to the parents from Principal Keenan last week, the school (does not celebrate holidays and or birthdays during school hours, citing the "more than 67 differnet cultures and languages represented there.
We welcome and celebrate our diversity (few believe that statement) however she goes on to say , to insure equity of all beliefs we are unable to acknowledge specific holidays".
There is enough circumstancial evidence from these statements alone that any reasonable citizen could conclude that someone may have actually complained to school leaders and they were not taking any chances and threw the baby out with the bath water, by their decision, in my opinion.
Scott the author saids that the Prin. and Super. need to admit this was a poorly planned attempt at AVOIDING any backlash or it was provoked by a very small issuance of complaints from a distinct minor amount of people who the Principal and Superintendant did not take the time or go through enough discussion to reach an educated decision.
The statements made by School leaders make it reasonable to assume by the circumstantial evidence alone, that someone may have complained or that the leaders acted on fears that someone would complain. Either way, enough is suggested by their statements to infer what you claim is non existent.
Mike G.
7:14 am on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Bingo, HMaz. This entire thread is based upon the notion that someone complained, or that this was done to appease a certain segment of the population.
For all anyone knows, this was the decision of one dopey person to avoid complaints BEFORE anyone actually complained, but it's easier and more convenient to lash out at a group of people and blame them for all the problems. Anyone who spends more than 5 minutes on this site reading the comments can see that the majority of people around here have a huge problem with immigrants.
I know, nobody wants to admit it, and you'll all feign outrage - "that's ridiculous! My (parent/grandparent/cousin/best friend) is an immigrant!" but it's blatantly obvious, evidenced by the immediate reaction of "OMG IMMIGRANTS GO BACK TO WHERE YOU CAME FROM", despite no mention of any complaints by any ethnic group.
7:28 am on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Seriously, the majority of these comments can be summed up as "An imaginary brown person is threatening our way of life!!!"
"There is enough circumstancial evidence from these statements alone that any reasonable citizen could conclude that someone may have actually complained"
Note to self: commit public service, intercept Leo's jury duty notices.
Joe Gray
12:49 am on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
I've no idea why Hmaz is taking me out of context. I stated what I am, where I've been, what I believe, etc. Never said anyone complained. Reread my post. I talk about feelings. I highlight the indoctrinated guilt being felt and taught to our children. Highlighting what we have become.
When we have reached a state in our culture, that highly educated arguments are being made to justify banning the celebration of "love" to our children, because our public school is too diverse to allow the children to celebrate love, caring, freindship and, and, and... well "love". I can think of many appropriate things to ban in our schools that I find offensive, "love" wasn't even on the radar... If people think banning the celebration of love in order to "manage" the children's feelings and equalize them all, is the appropriate thing to do.... well, I'm never going to agree. Clear as I can make it.
11:21 am on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
I asked because you assumed the change was made out of "indoctrinated guilt" rather than a number of factors including a sugar ban in the schools and poverty. Please don't let me stop you guys from whipping yourselves into a frenzy. Maybe you ate all the Valentine's candy. I don't know.
Anna Bucciarelli
5:53 am on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
As I see it this decision to avoid a simple fun day is that it fails to recognize its own injustice. It seems one very large mental disorder to assume that the feelings of some may be hurt so let's hurt all the children by depriving them of this one day. It makes no sense but, then, a lot of decisions today don't. This is just another nail in the closet to lock away our liberties as far as I'm concerned. Though on the surface this appears minor it is nonetheless another attempt at the erosion of the treasured American way we all grew up knowing and enjoying. It simply does not make good sense as far as I'm concerned and seems a crude and thoughtless way to go about teaching true diversity and inclusion.
8:34 am on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
agree wholeheartedly, not only crude and thoughtless to the rest of the children, but a completely stupid decision...I do not feel this is minor...I feel this is a major change along with all the rest which includes holidays and birthdays, it's scary that people who are in charge here are agreeing to such change! Who does Valentine's Day hurt for Heaven's sakes?! How does this day go against any religion, race or creed?! It's so ridiculous I can't even believe what I've read about here and furthermore I cannot believe how some actually agree to what is going on today!
paul surette
7:24 am on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Everyone, I would like to congratulate Hmaz on winning the 2013 Mincing Words Award. Yaaaaayyyy! I do have to be careful so as to not offend anyone by partying too hard on Hmaz's behalf. Hmaz, who exactly did you think Principal Keenan was referring to when she made mention of the '67 other cultures'? Was she referring to art culture? Oh, wait a minute....I know...she was talking about ...YOGURT CULTURE! Yes, that's it. Are there 67 other American cultures that we aren't aware of? Please tell me you can't be this stupid? Seriously!
11:23 am on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
I bet she didn't realize one of those cultures was so obsessively devoted to Valentine's Day, else she might have made a different decision.
david mokal
2:16 pm on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
KUDO's Listen here Boy...Have a Cigar..Your going to go far..No need to complain...Your going to ride that Gravy Train LOL :>)
paul surette
7:30 am on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Mike, don't you think that's kind of a stretch to say 'the majority'? I don't think that's fair. My beef isn't with legal immigrants. My argument is with Pinhead Principal Keenan to take it upon herself to pretend to speak for a majority of people in cow-towing to a minority!
Mike G.
7:34 am on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Paul, I wish that it were a stretch, but that is how I truly and honestly feel.
You know what, I get that your beef is with Principal Keenan - but the vast majority of backlash and outrage is not directed towards her, it's directed towards a group of people on whose behalf it's assumed she spoke for.
11:23 am on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Absolutely, Mike, and I find it a little frightening myself.
8:23 am on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Wow...the issue at hand is so ridiculous, so stupid, so absolutely unbelievable - not celebrate Valentine's Day?! Or any other holiday for that matter?! Have we all forgotten that this is America, land of the free, home of the brave? Obviously freedoms of celebrating a well loved tradition here are being thrown to the wind, along apparently with birthdays, Christmas, etc... Home of the Brave? Politically correct people are so far removed from brave it's comical...When a politically incorrect comment is made in front of these liberals the fear shows on their face as they all look down, around and it makes them so uncomfortable that it's comical to watch! Taking away these traditions and holidays is akin to rolling over for everyone who decides to step foot into this country - Taking away everything we've ever grown up with or enjoyed, known as TRADITION makes me very glad that my children were able to experience Christmas plays, songs, holidays, trees, Valentine's day, birthdays, etc, before they were something of the past. Just incredible events transpiring here, and they are not for the better - so sad to be witness to such ridiculous change..As far as being able to afford a pack of Valentine's how about teaching children the value and specialness of homemade items? Wow...what is this world coming to?! so so sad....
paul surette
8:50 am on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Here, here, mats. I would say amen, but somebody might get offended :(
9:20 am on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
I'm an idiot - I know not what I do..
Here's a Valentine's Day kiss for all who disagree! :) smoooooch!
Anna Bucciarelli
10:26 am on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
So I'll take the chance at offending ... AMEN, and amen again!
david mokal
7:55 pm on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Mats your absolutly correct. You give em an inch and they take a foot! They allready took their inch. Like Anna says you have to think like a child so they can be one like we all were. Fox News channels made them look like idiots so they are the ones who made fools of themselves.
8:36 am on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
"Wow...the issue at hand is so ridiculous, so stupid, so absolutely unbelievable"
That was the place to stop. Brevity is the soul of not sounding like an idiot.
8:49 am on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
I'm an idiot who got to enjoy holidays, bithdays, Valentine's Days, celebrations that made life/school/work something to look forward to...I'm an idiot whose children thankfully also got to enjoy the same...I'm an idiot who is outraged that our future generations will be that of robots who will celebrate NOTHING and never know the excitement of a PARTY for the hell of it...Jeez, Diana, have you never watched Michael Scott?!
Guess it paid to be an idiot in my small world...after all if we were all as smart as you, you wouldn't be able to look down upon the rest of us.
9:27 am on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
So celebrate and party, no one is stopping you. A bunch of kids handing out "friendship" cards instead of "Valentine's" cards at school is NOT an assault on your freedoms, and if you think that it is, well... bless you for having no real problems.
11:24 am on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Diana, I think it's time to leave them to their rants.
4:04 pm on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
this is a legitimate rant - roll over people, your rights are being sucked away by the tornado known as liberalism or call it what it really is or is about to become - whatever floats your boat - glad I'm old and won't see it when it really takes hold!
- danger will robinson -
paul surette
8:52 am on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Cleary, Mats.....Diana never got a Valentine when she was a kid. So her anger manifests in this post. The Grinch of St. Valentine's Day!
9:19 am on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
haha! inclined to think this is just another "liberal" truly believing what they think is "correct" - they can't face the truth they're so terrified of it, hide their heads in the sand, are so self righteous in their thinking that they believe they are always right and will call others "idiot" rather than even TRY to see the light!
david mokal
9:30 am on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Hey Diane I'll get you a Valintine and a box of chocolates too! Just so you will be happy cause when your happy we all are happy. I'll Toss in a DD Latte with whipped creme on top too.
9:35 am on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Hey, I like Valentine's Day. I just hate idiots and have no patience with hysteria. You know folks, if you need to borrow a Midol, just ask.
9:53 am on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Hey Grinch, i mean Snarky, sorry i mean Diana, it looks like Davy is getting sweet on you. Please go and have a good time.
4:22 pm on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
far from hysterical, just disgusted by the way so many just roll over and accept what is thrown at them...so sooooo many spineless jellyfish out there to educate!
Mike G.
9:42 am on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
This whole city could use one hell of an enema, that's for sure.
david mokal
10:10 am on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Get ready children for those grey wool un iforms and caps. Remember if you don't eat your pudding you wont get anymore pudding. "Hey Teacher" Leave those kids alone!!!!
paul surette
10:15 am on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Wow....the old guy knows Pink Floyd. Who knew!
david mokal
12:18 pm on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Yes Geezer got all their CD's...My very favorite is Meat Loaf's "I Want My Money Back" They should make it Malden's Theme Song..LOL
david mokal
10:16 am on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
@ Fred..Yes Fred I want to make our LIl Snarkies Happy an expierience the Love of getting a Valentine and Choclate Hearts. Lil Snarkies is like a chocolate Covered Cherry..Hard on the outside..Soft on the inside...Maybe more like an M&M plain.
david mokal
10:25 am on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
I read in the News this morning that the Harvard Professors are gathering together to end the MCAS in which they have made claims that it does no good. Very Interesting story if you come across it on 7 news.
david mokal
2:21 pm on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
I pity the fooool who eats up Diana's alias Snarky's Valentine Choclates ! haaaaa Luv that name Snarky. Who started this anyway.This is gettin good.
2:37 pm on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Dave, I had an old cockaspanial, snarky. She would growl and snap at you one minute then cuddle up and lick you the next. (great girl) Now if you and Diana hooked up, you would have to be careful of her snarky side, but the rewards will be gratifying.
Your right Mike g, this is getting weird.
4:16 pm on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
its almost saint patricks day, will the principle be aftah me luckee chahms next
5:14 pm on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
With any luck they'll ban boiled dinner and cheap green beer, because that stuff is vile. My Jameson they'll pry from my cold dead hands.
4:42 pm on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
good luck taking away that holiday, or tradition or big time excuse to party hearty! remember people, it's SAINT Patrick's Day! uh oh...!
Anna Bucciarelli
6:11 pm on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Well, we are way off target. Scott made some very good point above ..."If you choose to see a child's response through your eyes as an adult, you will make decisions that benefit the interest of an adult and not the child." I think that's it in a nutshell, he is correct in that sometimes we all "underestimate the acceptance of a child's mind and imagination." Political correctness be damned when it comes to children ... they should enjoy as much fun as they can while they can. We all know time moves far too swiftly and they will need to deal with many far more troublesome days so let this day be the joy it should be.
I am retiring from this post ... 'tis way out of the realm of civility and, I admit, I have contributed, but I'm outa here.
david mokal
7:33 pm on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
LOL Fred. I didnt know that Snarky Bites. Good Greif!
david mokal
7:43 pm on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
OMG! That's Right! St Patrick's day. I can hear it now! If You lil Kids think your going to where green...You Better Think Again!!!!! You Wont Get Any Pudding !!! Your right fred this is getting weird. Fred just keep telling yourself like I do.."It's Only A Movie..It's Only a movie" ! :)
Mike G.
8:35 pm on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Wow, the pinnacle of any intelligent debate - pull the girl's ponytail. Amazing.
8:50 pm on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Cinqo de mayo will soon be upon us as well, but that's not an American holiday , som we will probably be allowed to wear sombreros and enjoy some tasty coronas
Mike G.
10:26 pm on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Celebrating that would infringe on our American culture though, so no Coronas, just Budweisers all around.
10:29 pm on Wednesday, February 20, 2013
I'm gonna sip Patron though rolled-up creepy Valentines.
paul surette
7:02 am on Thursday, February 21, 2013
Rick and Mike G....I have to say...I am thoroughly disappointed in the two of you. Somewhat intelligent folks, and you drink that swill? Anyone who uses adjuncts like rice in their recipe (which folks like Anheuser, Miller, Coors, and Corona, to name a few) do , will always get a scorn from me. Talk about bad tasting beers, or no-flavor beers. They use rice, they say, to lighten the body. That mindset started back in the 50's, as they geared those products towards female drinkers. And let's not forget to mention using cheap hops. Anheuser-Busch has an excellent QC program, to consistently make a lousy tasting beer! Before any of you say "what do you do?",,,,I brew beer as a hobby! And you're welcome. :)
Mike G.
7:27 am on Thursday, February 21, 2013
Whoa whoa whoa, back up the truck Paul, who the hell said that I drank that? Trust me, my fridge is well-stocked with much better beer than that - let's not get into libelous territory, you guys might actually hurt my feelings.
For an interesting read, check out "Ambitious Brew" by Maureen Ogle. Great book that details the history of American beer.
8:42 am on Friday, February 22, 2013
for the record , I dont always drink beer, but when I do I drink Yeunglings
Mike G.
5:05 pm on Friday, February 22, 2013
See Ricky, I knew I liked you despite our restaurant differences. I have a friend who brings Yuengling back from PA for me all the time. Great stuff.
Maria america
1:48 am on Thursday, February 21, 2013
life liberty and the pursuit of happiness...............
Anna Bucciarelli
7:16 am on Thursday, February 21, 2013
Hey Paul ... interesting about home brewing ... my husband, I, my son and several of our relatives made many barrels of wine over the years, then he got interested in brewing beer and did that for a long time. No preservatives in any of it, no funny stuff, and it was delicious and we won two blue ribbons for the wine. Since there were no preservatives in the wine toward the end of the year it began to sour, and my husband then built a still and turned it into grappa, returned that into the barrels to season them well for the next batch of wine the following October. Great fun days, so many people, I was wiped out every Sunday night but it was well worth it and I miss it. Including us, there were 4 families involved in the wine making, I being the only female who did all the cooking, and it was a great production, as many as 6 (Mr. Boston) barrels full, mostly red, one white. So, we kept our traditions while celebrating being American ... it can (and should) be done and enjoyed. >:)
paul surette
7:38 am on Thursday, February 21, 2013
i briefly toyed with the idea of making wine, but I've been told by many that it is hard to get a quality harvest of grapes to do it. Pre-ordering and all that. Plus, I find that with wine making, temperature is all that more critical. If you don't keep an eye on it, you will end up permanently 'coloring' it. Beer seems to be more forgiving. I figure I can bang out a few more beer batches before the warmer weather comes along. I did manage to make an excellent copy of Ipswich Ale ( I got the recipe years back from the guy who sold the business to Mercury Brewing) Speaking of, I did the their Harvest Festival in Newburyport again this past September. Boy, did I ever get 'wrecked'! I've also copied Sam Adams Boston Lager, although NO ONE has access to their yeast strain. That strain makes that beer! Do you know what I like about beer? Unlike Diana, it doesn't judge me!
Anna Bucciarelli
8:01 am on Thursday, February 21, 2013
We picked up our grapes (usually Zinfandel) at the market it Everette (sp?) after calling from the mid Sept. to check when the grapes would arrive from CA ... each box weighed about 45 lbs, we'd get as many as 75 boxes. The temp in our old farmhouse cellar (in Templeton, MA.) was perfect and we never had a bad batch. My husband tutored classes in winemaking @ Mt. Watchusett Com College and I have videos of our venture ... it really is not as hard as you'd think but it is a lot of work with careful steps to follow which fell mostly to my husband since the others knew he'd take care of business and just took advantage of him, good natured soul that he was.
paul surette
8:04 pm on Friday, February 22, 2013
Mike, did you hear that Sam Adams and some of their other seasonals will be packaged ....in cans! I, for one, am disgusted!
Mike G.
11:31 am on Saturday, February 23, 2013
Seriously, I don't understand the decision. It's just fine in bottles.
11:43 am on Saturday, February 23, 2013
Mike G youare a sorry pedophile. I read your comments and you and Chris must be boy Butt buddies. Do a little research folks and you'll find Mike g was the subject of many ex girlfriend restraining orders and sexual assault charged. He is the scum malden needs to rid itself of. Die Mike g my ARCH ENEMY
12:16 pm on Saturday, February 23, 2013
Aw man... I wish I was important enough to have an ARCH ENEMY.
Jellus. :(
Mike G.
12:18 pm on Saturday, February 23, 2013
Does this mean I need a cape? Does Malden have a cape store?
Julie Meara
2:56 pm on Saturday, February 23, 2013
This country is supposed to be a "melting pot" so why remove all holiday celebrations rather than adding some from other cultures as well? This politically correct crap is only taking away from everybody's culture. It's not just Valentines Day, it's every holiday. Keep the celebrations and add some from other cultures. That would educate our children rather than take away from them. Common sense is highly uncommon.
paul surette
7:30 pm on Saturday, February 23, 2013
I hear ya, Mike. I don't care how 'good' the can is in properties. There IS a taste difference. Jim Koch even said this is a response to 'consumer demand'. Go drink Bud then!
Mike G.
7:34 pm on Saturday, February 23, 2013
Ok, maybe I can see if people want to be able to bring a six-pack to an area that might not allow glass bottles, but man..... I just hope they got this right and that it doesn't dilute the brand.
paul surette
9:41 pm on Saturday, February 23, 2013
True story: Back about 6 years ago, I did a tour of Redhook Brewery in Portsmouth. I saw their equipment. It looked vaguely familiar. I then asked about it. I was told by an employee, that they had recently had a cash infusion from....Anheuser-Busch....I turned right around, and left. Haven't been back since, or bought any of their beers!
paul surette
9:43 pm on Saturday, February 23, 2013
For the record, Mike....shortly after Boston Beer went public with their stocks, they were bought by Yahoo. Yahoo has never performed well on Wall St. Need I say more?
paul surette
10:25 am on Monday, February 25, 2013
First of all, BRUCE....it's 'whether', not weather! Secondly, St. Valentine's TRADITION was around long before Hallmark was ever created. I bet you think Halloween is a conspiracy perpetrated by the candy companies too. Hopefully, there won't be any 'future children' for you, for I would fear they would become bland like yourself, depraved of any tradition or joy in their lives. Ridiculous remarks brought to you by Bruce....and by the makers of Cymbalta....Cymbalta can help!
Anna Bucciarelli
3:00 pm on Monday, February 25, 2013
Prefer the discussion of wine and beer ... Paul, where do you get your supplies to make beer? My husband used a mail-order place and his beer was delicious but I cannot remember where or what and I love beer, would like to make some myself.
paul surette
7:30 pm on Monday, February 25, 2013
Anna, my dealer of choice is Beer & Wine Hobby in Woburn. It's right on New Boston St. They've been there since their inception. Once in a while I would go to Julio's in Westborough. There was some other place I went to in Newton, but I can't remember the name of the place.
Anna Bucciarelli
6:21 am on Tuesday, February 26, 2013
Thanx Paul ... I do remember that Marco used Woburn too, so maybe we'll meet there some time!
Anna Bucciarelli
6:29 pm on Wednesday, February 27, 2013
A report from Berlin on NPR tonight reported that beer consumption in Germany has declined considerably over the past few years, that people are drinking more wine and soda (of all things). Beer consumption is still somewhat high in G, 28 gallons per person per year and in America we drink a mere 21 gallons per person per year (I sort of doubt that last figure). Anyway, attributing the decline to a cause is not clear, could be their economy which is slow, less $ to spend on beer (but they can afford wine and soda??), however, the overriding theory is that there are fewer young people in Germany, who would be the greater consumers of beer. Just a tidbit of nonsense information I thought to pass on.>:) (Paul, B&H in Woburn does do mail order, so that must be where my sweet ol' man ordered from.)
paul surette
7:41 pm on Wednesday, February 27, 2013
Karen, who is from Germany, has owned B&H since it's inception. They seem to be the most knowledgeable around. Thinking about what my next recipe will be. :)