I am beginning a major revision of this site. I will try to have several prompts for each day, and you may select the one that best fits your needs. I am starting by going through the prompts for past years and consolidating them.

Because of the way the calendar works, some days will have more prompts than others. The months will be placed in calendar order as they are revised.

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

January, 2008

The character trait for January is INTEGRITY.

Inner strength
truthfulness
trustworthiness
honesty
honor and justice

In 45 B.C., the Romans began celebrating New Years on January first. Before that, they celebrated New Years on March 21, which their mythology said was the date of the creation of the world. The dates of holidays are seldom moved. If you could move the date of a holiday, which one would you move? To what date would you move it? Why would you move it?
Author Isaac Asimov was born in 1920. He wrote more than 500 books, including science, science fiction, mystery, and humor. He could write very fast, but many other authors are much slower. Do you have a favorite author whose next book you are waiting for? Who is the author? Why do you like him or her?
In 2001, Derrick Seaver, age 18, took office as a member of the Ohio General Assembly. He is the youngest person ever elected to state office in the United States. Only 18 states allow people younger than 30 to serve in the state legislature. Do you feel this is right or wrong? Give three reasons for your opinion.
Josiah Wedgwood, English potter and industrialist, died in 1795. He developed many new techniques that made china and other pottery stronger, prettier, and cheaper. He popularized the custom of decorating china with designs in sets that all had the same pattern. Suppose you were designing a set of pottery for the month of January. Describe some designs you think would be appropriate.
The Roman statesman Cicero was born in 106 BC. A powerful speaker, he argued against the growing domination of Rome by the military. His speeches were written down and are still studied by people who want to learn to speak well. Who is the best person you know who gives speeches? What makes that person a good speaker? List as many reasons as you can.

In 1892, J.R.R. Tolkien, author of The Lord of the Rings, was born. Which character in this series is your favorite? Note: the character, not the actor. If you have not read the books or seen the movie, what is your favorite character in some other book? List 3 traits of this character that makes you like him.
Isaac Newton was born in 1642. Among his many scientific discoveries and theories, he was the first person to suggest that an artificial satellites could be created. His discoveries in the field of optics lead the the modern techniques of making glasses, binoculars, and contact lenses. How would our life be different if glasses, binoculars, and contact lenses had never been invented? Name 4 ways.
In 1984, Wayne Gretsky scored 8 points in one hockey game, a professional record. He once said, "You miss a hundred percent of the shots you never take." What do you think he meant by this?

Thomas Stevens completed the first journey around the world on a bicycle in 1887. He rode a bike with a huge front wheel, a small back wheel, and no brakes. List four problems he would face on such a long trip with such a bicycle.
President Harry Truman was sworn in after his election in 1949. He once said, "It's amazing what you can accomplish if you do not care who gets the credit." What do you think he meant by that?
Today is George Washington Carver Day, in honor of the famous African-American scientist. Born a slave, he helped to found the Tuskeegee Institute and discovered hundreds of new uses for peanuts, sweet potatoes, and other southern crops. Think of something that people use for one purpose now, and try to invent a new use for it.

In 1759, the French writer and critic Voltaire said, "Opinion has caused more trouble on this little earth than plagues or earthquakes." What do you think he meant by that? Do you agree?

Work begins on the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, CA. It is painted red-orange, not gold. What building or structure made by people do you think is the most beautiful? Why do you think so?
George and Martha Washington were married in 1759. Both of them endured hardship and danger during the Revolutionary War, as many families are experiencing today. What are some things you can do to help families whose members are separated by war?
(Based on the Washington's wedding anniversary mentioned above) What are five things a couple needs to have a good family life?

Heinrich Schliemann, the archeologist who discovered the ruins of Troy, was born in 1822. Everyone thought that Troy was a myth, but Schliemann used clues in the epics about the Trojan War to find the actual location of the city. If you could visit any ancient or legendary place, where would you go and what would you want to see when you got there?
In 1610, Galileo became the first person to see the moons of Jupiter through his telescope. He saw the four largest and named them from mythology: Io, Ganymede, Europa, and Calisto. What would you name them?
In 1887, Thomas Stevens finishes the round-the-world bicycle trip he began in 1884. If you could ride your bicycle to a special place, where would you go?
In 1790, new President George Washington delivered the first State of the Union address to Congress. Washington once said, "It is far better to be alone than to be in bad company." What do you think he meant by that? Why do you think he believed it to be true?
Elvis Presley was born in 1935. What is your favorite Elvis song? If you don't like any Elvis songs, what songs do you like?
In 1493, Christopher Columbus's crew caught a manatee. Columbus thought they were the origin of the stories of mermaids, and said they were not nearly as beautiful as people thought they were. Think of some of the mythological creatures you have heard or read about. If one of them were real, which one would you prefer to see? Why that one?
Today is the Roman festival of Agonalia, a feast in honor of Janus, god of beginnings and endings. On this day, Romans would make plans and projects for the new year, the origin of New Year's Resolutions. What goal would you like to set for yourself this year?

In 1793, President George Washington watched the first hot-air balloon trip ever made in the United States. In 1923, an early ancestor of the helicopter, the autogyro, made its first successful flight, and in 1969, the first supersonic passenger plane, the Concorde, made its first flight. If you could ride in a balloon, a helicopter, or a supersonic jet, which one would you choose? Why that one?
Wednesday, Jan.10, 2007: Ray Bolger, the actor who played the part of the Scarecrow in The Wizard of Oz, was born in 1904. The Scarecrow wanted brains, the Lion wanted courage, and the Tin Woodsman wanted a heart. Which of these three do you think is the most important for having a happy life: to be smart, to be courageous, or to be loving? Tell why you think so.
In 1968, the American spacecraft Surveyor 7 landed on the moon and began to send back pictures of its surface. Some people think that only machines should be sent into space because of the danger. Do you agree or disagree? Give 3 reasons for your answer.

The first jeeps were made for the United States armed forces in 1942. The jeep was a light, simple replacement for the horse, who has to be fed whether you needed to ride him or not. Jeeps became popular after the war among people who wanted to travel to hard-to-reach places. If you could go to any remote, hard-to-reach place (like the desert, the jungle, or some remote mountain range) where would you choose to go? What problems do you think you would have reaching that place?
Pineapples were planted in Hawaii for the first time. Pineapples have a unique taste; some people love them, but others hate them. How do you feel about pineapples?
In 1935, Amelia Earhart made the first solo flight between Hawaii and North America. She said, "Courage is the price that life asks for granting peace." Do you agree? Explain your asnwer?

This week is International Thank You Week, designated to encourage people to thank others who they may not have had a chance to thank before. Think of all the people who have helped you that you have not had a chance to thank for their hard work. Select one and write that person a thank-you note, then give it to them.
Friday, Jan. 12, 2007: British politician Edmund Burke, who sided with the Americans during the Revolutionary War, was born in 1729. He once wrote, "All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." What do you think he meant by that?
In 1773, the first museum in America was opened in Charleston, SC. What is something you would like to see that is in a museum? Why do you want to see that?

Edmund Burke, British writer and philosopher, was born in 1729. He wrote, "The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." What do you think he meant by that?

Jack London, author of The Call of the Wild, was born in 1876. Many of Jack London's stories were about dogs. What is your favorite dog story?
The first newspaper was founded in Augsburg, Germany in 1609. If you could read an original newspaper account of a famous historical event, which one would you choose, and why?
In 1928, the first television program was broadcast in the United States. The TVs of the time had 1-and-one-half-inch wide screens. Suppose TV screens had never become any bigger. How would your life be different? List at least 3 ways.

The first full moon of the year is called the Wolf Moon because in earlier times, wolves would become desperate for food during this time of year and attack cattle and other domestic animals. (Wolves almost never attack people; apparently we taste bad to them.) Modern people almost never see wolves, so Wolf Moon is not a very useful name for us. What name would you give for the full moon in January that might be meaningful to today's people? Why that name?
In 1908, Illinois selected its state tree, the oak, and state flower, the violet. If your state decided to change its tree or flower, what do you think they should change it to? Give some reasons for your answer.

In 1690, Johann Denner invented the clarinet. What instrument's music is your favorite? What is your favorite song or player of that instrument?

Tim Berners-Lee, inventor of the World Wild Web, release the first web browser in 1992. In a very few years, the Web became popular. What website do you think is the most useful for students? Why do you think so?
Today is Adult Day in Japan, in honor of young people who are 20 years old and have become adults. They put on traditional ceremonial adult clothing and are visited by their parents' friends. How would you celebrate becoming an adult?
Ethel Merman, famous theater and movie star, was born in 1907. She once said, "You'll never prove you're too good for a job by not doing your best." What do you think she meant by that?
Captain James Cook discovered St. George Island, which he named for England's patron saint. If you were to discover an island, what would you name it, and why?
Andre Michelin, the founder of the Michelin Tire Company, was born in 1853. To encourage people to travel in their cars, and buy more tires, he started the Guide Michelin, a guidebook that rated restaurants by the quality of their food and service. List some restaurants you have eaten at, including fast-food restaurants, then rate them in order based on how much you liked their food. Share your list with your classmates. Which restaurants are the favorites?
Wednesday, Jan 17, 2007: Comic actor Jim Carey, who became famous for his role in Ace Ventura, Pet Detective, was born in 1962. Which comic actor or actress is your favorite? Describe some funny scene that person played.
In 1690, Johann Denner invented the clarinet. What instrument's music is your favorite? What is your favorite song or player of that instrument?
In 1773, British Captain James Cook commanded the first two ships to ever cross the Antarctic Circle. Although it is a cold and barren place, many people visit Antarctica every year. If you went there, what would you expect to see?
Thursday, Jan. 18, 2007: French writer and philosopher Charles de Montesquieu was born in 1698. He once said, "The less men think, the more they talk." Do you agree with him? Why or why not?
A.A. Milne, the author of the books about Winnie-the-Pooh, was born in 1882. Which of the characters in the Winnie-the-Pooh books is your favorite? Why do you like that one best?
Horace H. Hayden died in 1844. He founded the first college to train dentists. Many people dislike going to the dentist. What are four things you can do that will make you need to go to the dentist less?
Friday, Jan. 19, 2007: In 1903, President Theodore Roosevelt and King Edward VII of Great Britain sent greetings to each other over the first telegraph line under the Atlantic Ocean. It was the first time people could send messages across the ocean in less than several days. If you were asked to write a first message to be sent over a new means of communication, what message would you send, and to whom would you sent it?
Edgar Allan Poe was born in 1809. His most famous poem, "The Raven," tells about a mysterious bird. Write a poem or short paragraph about an animal you think is mysterious (or might be used in a mystery).

Horace H. Hayden died in 1844. He founded the first college to train dentists. Many people dislike going to the dentist. What are four things you can do that will make you need to go to the dentist less?

Marvin Gaye's hit "I Heard It Through the Grapevine" becomes number 1. Rumors can be very destructive. Why do you think some people make up and spread harmful stories about others? What can you do to avoid spreading rumors?
The first basketball game was played in 1892. Who is your favorite basketball player? List reasons you like him or her.
In 1942, top Nazi officials plan the Final Solution, the murder of Europe's Jews, at a conference in Wannsea, Germany. Some people think a memorial should be placed there to mourn those lost. Others think such a terrible thing should not be memorialized. How do you feel about this? Explain your answer.
Eliza H. Bordman died in 1873, after successfully working to make Washington's birthday a holiday. What person do you think needs a holiday? Why do you think so?
In 1933, William Wrigley III was born. He made a fortune making chewing gum and bought the Chicago Cubs, who still play in Wrigley Field. Many schools ban gum in the classroom. Do you agree with this rule? Give three reasons for your opinion.
Joy Adamson, the author of Born Free, was born in 1910. She advocated restoring zoo animals to their natural habitat, and worked out ways to teach them how to live in the wild. If you could study one wild animal in its natural habitat, which one would you choose? Why that one?
Francis Bacon was born in 1561. He wrote and described the scientific method. He stressed that a scientist must always be truthful in his reports. Why is truthfulness such an important quality for most jobs and professions?
Today is Answer Your Cat's Questions Day--a very strange day. If your cat or dog or other pet could ask you questions, what do you think the first three would be? What would your answer be?
Charles Curtis became the first Senator of Native American ancestry to become a U.S. Senator in 1907. He later became Vice President for President Hoover. Senators help to write laws for the United States. If you were able to write a law for your nation or state, what law would you write? What problem would your law solve?
In 1831, Belgium accepted a design for its national flag, based on the German flag, but with strips that run in a different direction. If the United States decided to choose a new flag, what do you think would be a good design? Draw or describe it.
Some people love winter for its sports, others hate it for its cold. Name 3 good things and 3 bad things about winter.
Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2007: The Eskimo Pie, ice cream covered with chocolate, was patented by Christian Nelson in 1922. Describe a new dessert or treat you would like. It may contain ice cream or not, depending on your preferences.
In 1984, the first Apple Macintosh computer went on sale for $2,495. How would your school be different if it had no computers? List 5 ways.
In 1899, Edward John Phelps, a lawyer and diplomat, said, "The man who makes no mistakes does not usually make anything else." What do you think he meant by that?
Thursday, Jan. 25, 2007: The first winter Olympic Games open in Chamonix, France, in 1924. It began the process of popularizing winter sports for ordinary people; prior to then, only very rich people (or those who lived in the mountains) skied. Do you like or participate in a winter sport, or would you like to learn one? Which one? Why that one? (If you are not interested in winter sports, tell why you feel as you do.)
In 1974: Dr. Christian Barnard performed the first successful human heart transplant. If you received a heart from someone who had died, how would you feel? What would you say to the person's family?
Today is Burns Day, celebrating the birth of Robert Burns, Scotland's favorite poet, in 1756. Here is part of a poem written by Robert Burns about a finely-dressed lady who has lice:

Oh wad some power the giftie gie us
To see oursel's as others see us!
It wad frae monie a blunder free us,
And foolish notion.

Translation from Scottish dialect:

Oh would some power give us the gift/ To see ourselves as others see us/ It would free us from many blunders/ and foolish notions.

What do you think he means?
Friday, Jan. 26, 2007: Julia Dent Grant, wife of President U.S. Grant, was born in 1826. Mrs. Grant was a very plain woman, but was known for her kindness. Think of a person who has done something kind for you, or for someone you know. Write about how their kindness benefited you or someone else.
1500, the Amazon River was discovered by Vincent Pizon. The Amazon is the largest river in the world, and an important feature of South America. If you were going to South America, list the things you would like to see there.

The world's largest diamond was discovered in 1905 and donated to the British king to keep it off the market so that the price of diamonds would not fall. What would you do if you found a huge and valuable jewel?
In 1784, Ben Franklin wrote a letter to his daughter protesting against the decision to choose the eagle as the symbol of the United States. He thought the eagle was a cruel, predatory bird, and preferred the turkey instead. Suppose you had to choose an animal as the symbol of your class. It can't be an eagle, or a symbol your school already uses. What animal would you choose? Why that one?
Charles Lutwidge Dodgson, the author of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, was born in 1832. What is your favorite character from this famous story? Why do you like that character?
In 1756, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born. People today call his music "classical," but it was the pop music of his time. Everyone listened to it, played it on instruments, and sang, whistled, or hummed it. What music that is popular today do you think will be considered classical in 200 years?

Happy birthday, National Geographic Society. It was organized in 1888 to sponsor explorations and spread knowledge about the world. The movie March of the Penguins is only one of its many films, TV programs, books, or magazine articles it has created. Suppose you went to work for the National Geographic Society. What areas of the world would you like to visit and make reports about? Why those places?
Charles the Simple became King of France in 893. As his name suggests, he was not very smart. What qualities do you think a good king needs?
Andrew Carnegie, who made millions manufacturing steel, set up a foundation to encourage knowledge and learning in 1902. His foundation helped to establish free public libraries in hundreds of American towns and cities. (Before Carnegie, most libraries charged a fee to get a library card.) What part of the library is your favorite?
Oprah Winfrey was born in 1954. Although born poor, she has created a media company that has made her very wealthy. She has used some of her money to help young people get an education, and for many other good causes. If you could donate money for a good cause, what would you donate for? Why do you prefer that cause?
In 1929, a foundation was established to raise and train Seeing Eye dogs for the blind. What do you think would be the most difficult problem faced by blind people? Be specific--being unable to see is the condition, not the problem.
Tuesday, Jan. 30, 2007: President Franklin Roosevelt was born in 1882. He once said, "Happiness lies in the joy of achievement and the thrill of creative effort." What do you think he meant by that?
In 1790, lifeboats were first used to rescue people from a sinking ship. Make a list of the survival gear you think should be kept on a lifeboat.
Do you like fish and grape jelly? How about spinach and chocolate? Many people like strange combinations of food. What is the strangest combination of foods you or one of your friends like? Why do you (or that other person) like that combination?
Wednesday, Jan. 31, 2007: Ernie Banks, Hall of Fame baseball player for the Chicago Cubs, was born in 1931. He once said, "Awards mean a lot, but they don't say it all. The people ...mean more to me than statistics." Do you agree with him? Why or why not?
President Harry S Truman said, "I sit here [in the White House] all day trying to persuade people to do the things they ought to have sense enough to do without my persuading them." Why do you think so many people have to be persuaded to do the right thing?
In 1709, a British sailor named Alexander Selkirk was rescued from a remote island after being marooned there for 4 years. The writer Daniel Defoe heard of him and used his story in the novel Robinson Crusoe. Suppose you were left alone in some remote place. What are four problems you would have to solve to stay alive? Which do you think would be the most difficult?

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

February

The character trait for February is COOPERATION.

Respect for diversity
Teamwork within home, school, and community

Feb. 1: Sir Edward Coke was born in 1552. He wrote down and organized English common law, which is also the basis of American law. He once said, “Success in crime always invites to worse deeds.” What do you think he meant by that?

Today is National Freedom Day. Think of the kinds of freedom you have, and the price people have paid to give these freedoms to you. In your opinion, which kind of freedom is the most important for people your age? Why that one?

Happy birthday, United States Supreme Court. It first met in New York in 1790. What are three qualities a good judge or supreme court justice must have? Why those qualities?

Feb. 2: George S. Halas, the founder of the Chicago Bears football team, was born in 1895. He was the co-founder of the NFL. This Sunday is the Super Bowl, when the championship of the NFL is decided. What are you or others you know doing during the game? What kind of things do people you know do to root for their favorite team?

In 1876, the National Baseball League was formed. It is the oldest professional sports league in the United States. Baseball is no longer the most popular American professional sport. Why do you think other sports have become more popular? Think of three or more reasons.

William Shakespeare's twins, Hamnet and Judith, were baptized in 1585. (Births were not recorded at that time, only baptisms.) If you were a twin, would you prefer to have a twin who was the same sex as you, or one who was not? Give reasons for your opinion. (If you are a twin, what is the main advantage, and the main disadvantage, of being one?)

Feb. 3: In 1889, the famous female outlaw and bank robber Belle Starr was killed by being shot in the back. Despite Belle, most crimes are committed by men, not women. Why do you think this is so?

In 1690, the colony of Massachusetts Bay issues the first paper money ever issued in what is now the United States. Suppose the United States decided to put new pictures on some of its paper money. What famous American whose picture is NOT now on money most deserves to have a picture on it? Defend your choice.

February is a short month. Some people have suggested that a day be taken from two of the 31-day months and added to February to make the calendar more regular. Do you agree? Why or why not?

Feb. 4: Today is Setsubun (Bean Throwing Day) in Japan. To drive out evil spirits and prepare for spring, roasted beans are scattered around the house, temple, or shrine. While you scatter them, you chant, "Devils out, happiness in!" Then you collect one bean for every year of your age and eat it. So beans are good luck food in Japan. What is your good-luck food? Why do you think of that food as bringing good luck.

Clyde W. Tombaugh was born in 1906. He discovered the planet Pluto in 1930. He named it for the Roman god of the underworld, since all the other planets are named for Roman gods. Suppose the world=s astronomers decided to give all the planets new names. What plan would you suggest they use for the new names?

Feb. 5: Adlai Stevenson was born in 1900. He ran for President twice and served in many important positions. He once said, "All progress has resulted from people who took unpopular positions." Can you think of anything that was unpopular once, but is accepted by almost everyone today? What do you think caused the change?

Late January and early February often have the coldest weather of the year. What are some ways students could work together for people who need help in cold weather, like the homeless or people with little money?

Feb. 6: In 2000, Idaho potato farmers faces a huge surplus of unsold potatoes. Rather than have them ground up and burned, they gave 24 million pounds of potatoes to food banks all over the United States. What are some things students might do to help hungry people in their community, or elsewhere?

In 1659, the first check on a bank account was written and accepted in Britain. What are the advantages and disadvantages of using checks to pay for things.

Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2007: Laura Ingalls Wilder, author of the Little House books, was born in 1867. The stories she told were based on her own life. By the time she reached middle age, the life she had lived as a child seemed strange and unusual to most people younger that she was. What are three things you experience today that you think your children may not experience, and think of as strange?

In 1914, comic actor Charlie Chaplin introduced his Little Tramp character. He became so popular that he became the first real movie star. Chaplin once said, "A day without laughter is a day wasted." What do you think he meant by that?

In 1984, astronaut Bruce McCandless became the first human being to make a space walk without using a safety tether to attach him to his spaceship. Instead he used a rocket pack that he designed himself to move around and return to the ship. If the rocket pack had not worked, he would have never been able to return to his spaceship and would have died in space. Suppose you were asked to test a new and untried idea someone else had. Would you be willing to do it? Why or why not?

Feb. 8: In 1693, King William and Queen Mary of Britain gave a charter for a new college in the colony of Virginia. The Virginians named it the College of William and Mary, and it is the second oldest college in the United States. William and Mary is an unusual name for a college. Make a list of other things you have heard about or seen that have unusual names.

Businessman Harold Geneen said, "I don't believe in just ordering people to do things. You have to sort of grab an oar and row with them." What do you think he meant by that?

John Ruskin was born in1819. He was a writer on art and travel who was the first important critic who pointed out that the value of working to preserve historical buildings. If you could go anywhere in the world to see a famous building, where would you go and what would you see? Why does that building appeal to you?

Feb. 9: In 1797, a group of English sailors were shipwrecked on the coast of Australia, becoming the first Europeans to live there. Suppose you and your classmates were shipwrecked on a new land and had to survive? How would you organize yourself to do the work you need to do?

In 1863, Anthony Hope was born. He was an English writer whose most famous book was The Prisoner of Zenda, about a British soldier that happens to look exactly like a foreign ruler, and the problems this causes him. Suppose you looked exactly like a famous person. What person would you like to look like? What problems might that cause you?

Today has two important holidays. It is Ash Wednesday for Christians, and the Lunar New Year for China and many other places with large numbers of people from China. What do you think a combined Ash Wednesday and New Year's celebration should look like?

Feb. 10: In 1933, singing telegrams were introduced. For a fee, you could send a message to anyone in the country, and a person would sing the message to them, making up or borrowing a tune for the message. Make up a silly message or song about something in your school or class, and sing it to your classmates.

Both the Chinese and Muslim New Years occur during this time. Having a lot of holidays very close together can be both fun and confusing, especially if different people are celebrating different things, or on different days. List at least 3 problems this situation might cause in a country with large numbers of Christians, Muslims, and Chinese people, like the USA.

Feb. 11: After spending 27 years in prison, Nelson Mandela was released in 1990. He had been imprisoned for his opposition to the racist policies of the government of South Africa at the time, and later became the first black President of South Africa. After his release, he said, "There is nothing like returning to a place that remains unchanged to find the ways in which you yourself have changed." What do you think he meant by that?
Feb. 12: In 1637, Jan Swammerdam was born in Holland. He discovered the existence of red blood cells. This was one of the most important discoveries that led to the development of blood transfusions, which has saved many lives. Think of some other discoveries that have made our lives healthier. List 3 of them and tell why they are important.
Feb. 13: In 2000, the last original Peanuts cartoon strip was printed, the day after the artist who invented it, Charles Schulz, died of cancer. Peanuts tells about the life of young people from their own viewpoint. Which Peanuts character is your favorite? Why do you like that one?

Indians called the full moon of February the Snow Moon, because this is the coldest time of year in most places in the northern hemisphere. What is your favorite activity to do when it snows?

Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2007: Charles Dickens attended a large party in his honor during a visit to New York City. Despite his popularity, his experiences in America gave him a very bad impression of our country, and in several of his novels, America is portrayed as a very rough and savage place, with many unfriendly people. If you could, what things could you say to Charles Dickens to show him the friendly, pleasant side of America?

In 1764, a trading post was started that slowly grew into the city of St. Louis, Missouri. It served Indians and European settlers that were traveling on the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers. Make a list of things that people traded in 1764 that we almost never buy or sell today. To get you started, there were no matches, so people used pieces of flint rock to make sparks.

In 1896, Edward, Prince of Wales (he later became King Edward VII) became the first member of the British royal family to ride in a car. In those days, every car was built by hand, very likely to break down a lot, and many times more expensive than they are today. Suppose no way to build cheaper, more reliable cars had every been found? How would your life be different if only very rich people had cars?

Feb. 15: Harold Arlen was born in 1905. He wrote many songs, including the music for the movie The Wizard of Oz. In that movie, three main characters search for brains, a heart (so he can feel emotions), and courage. Of those three things, which do you think is the most important? Give a reason for your opinion.

Cyrus McCormick was born in 1809. He invented the first mechanical reaper, which allowed one farmer to harvest as much grain in a day as 20 workers were able to do before. One result of his invention was lowering the cost of food. How do you think lowering the cost of food helped people? List three ways.

Mustard was first made in the United States by German settlers in Pennsylvania, who brought the recipe from Europe. Do you like mustard on certain foods? Which ones? If you don't like mustard, what condiment do you prefer?

Feb. 16: In 1852, the Studebaker brothers open a shop making covered wagons. Later, their company made cars, but it went out of business because of the odd design of its cars. What are some things you have seen for sale that look strange to you? Describe the oddest or funniest thing you have ever seen on sale.

In 1878, the first silver dollar coin was minted. Before then, all dollar coins had been gold, and one-dollar coins did not exist, because the amount of gold needed for one was so small. Would you rather have a dollar coin or a dollar bill? Why do you prefer that form of money?

The Bee Gees won a Grammy award in 1979 for their album Saturday Night Fever. Some styles from that time are popular today, but others are not. What styles from today do you think will be popular in 25 years? Which ones will not be popular?

Feb. 17: In 1972, the 15th million VW Bug (the old style Bug) was manufactured in Germany, making it the most popular car of all time. It looked very different from all of the other cars made either before or since. Why do you think such an odd-looking car was so popular?

In 1801, the Presidential election was tied until today, when Thomas Jefferson defeated Aaron Burr to become our third President. Jefferson once said, "The fortune of our lives...depends on employing well the short period of our youth." What are some things you can do now to prepare yourself for a successful life?

Feb. 18: Dale Earnhardt died in a crash at the 2001 Daytona 500. What are some of the qualities that make a good race car driver?

In 1930, the first cow flewB on an airplane. The cow was even milked while on the airplane. What kind of problems do you think there would be trying to fly a cow or other large animal on an airplane?

Feb. 19: In 1855, the first weather maps were prepared for the French Academy of Sciences, based on reports from all over France sent by telegraph to Paris. This is an important first step in developing dependable weather forecasting. How often do you check the weather report? What are some things you do that depend on the weather?

In 1473, Nicholas Copernicus was born. He was the first to suggest that the earth went around the sun, rather than the sun around the earth. His idea was so odd to the people of his time that it was not even published during his lifetime. What is the oddest idea about science you have learned?

Feb. 20: Fashion designer Gloria Vanderbilt was born in 1924. She once said, of Black photographer Gordon Parks, "He had the greatest gift of all: the ability to love without fear." Why do you think that she might have thought at love without fear was the greatest gift? Do you agree?

Enzo Ferrari, the designer and originator of the Ferrari motor car was born in 1898. Ferraris are very beautiful, very fast, and very expensive. Modern Ferraris can go over 150 miles an hour, a speed that is legal nowhere in the world. Why do you think a person would spend hundreds of thousands of dollars for a car that they can never drive as fast as it is designed to be driven?

Feb. 21: In 1925, the New Yorker magazine began publication. Despite its title, the magazine had stories about many aspects of American life, although New York was always its focus. If you were going to start a magazine, what would you want it to be about? Why that topic?

W.H. Auden, Pulitzer-prize winning poet was born in 1906. Here is a poem he wrote:

Funeral Blues

Stop all the clocks, cut off the telephone,
Prevent the dog from barking with a juicy bone.
Silence the pianos and with muffled drum
Bring out the coffin, let the mourners come.

Let aeroplanes circle moaning overhead
Scribbling on the sky the message He is Dead,
Put crépe bows round the white necks of the public doves,
Let the traffic policemen wear black cotton gloves.

He was my North, my South, my East and West,
My working week and my Sunday rest,
My noon, my midnight, my talk, my song,
I thought that love would last forever: 'I was wrong'

The stars are not wanted now, put out every one;
Pack up the moon and dismantle the sun;
Pour away the ocean and sweep up the wood.
For nothing now can ever come to any good.

In this poem, Auden says he was wrong about something. What was he wrong about? Why was he wrong?

The Arrowbile, a car that can be converted into an airplane, was successfully test-flown in 1937. Several successful car-plane combinations have been tried, but none have sold well. Why do you think car-planes aren't popular?

Feb. 22: In ancient times, Romans would have family reunions on this day. What are some things your family does to have fun or celebrate?

On this day ever year, the sun rises so that its first rays shine in the door of the temple of the sun god Re in Abu Simbel. The temple was built by the ancient Egyptians, and this day was their annual holiday in honor of the sun god and sun goddess. Why do you think that the sun god was so important to the ancient Egyptians? Give three reasons. (The sun also shines directly in the door on Oct. 22, another major holiday for them.)

Heinrich Hertz was born in 1857. He was the first person to broadcast and receive radio waves, thus inventing the technology used for radio, television, cell phones, and all other broadcasts. The unit of frequency is named for him. If you could have only a radio, or a television, or a cell phone, but not have either of the others, which one would you choose? Why that one?

Feb. 23: American inventor Charles Martin Hall invented a cheap and efficient method to refine aluminum from ore in 1886. Before this, aluminum was more valuable than gold, but now it is used for many things that require a light, strong, inexpensive metal. Make a list of 7 things aluminum is used for, then decide which one is more important. Explain the reason for your decision.

In 1874, Major Walter Wingfield patents the first rules of outdoor tennis. Before this, it had always been played indoors, and there were few places to play it. Tennis, badminton, and volleyball are all played on a court with a net stretched across the middle. Which of these three sports is your favorite? Why that one?

The Tootsie Roll was invented in 1896 by Leo Hirshfield. What are four qualities you look for in a good kind of candy? (Hint: taste is one!)

Feb. 24: In 1208, St. Francis of Assisi began his order of Franciscans, dedicated to helping and serving the poor. He once said, "Where there is charity and wisdom, there is neither fear nor ignorance." What do you think he meant by that?

Today five places adopted flags: Mexico in 1821, West Virginia in 1905, Maine and New Hampshire in 1909, and Estonia in 1918. Each flag uses colors and designs that symbolize the history or ideas of the people that use the flag. If you were to design a flag for your family, what colors and designs would you use? What would they symbolize?

Feb. 25: The first vacuum cleaner was patented by Hubert Booth in England in 1902. It was a huge machine, the size of a refrigerator, and was carried from house to house on a cart. People would pay to have the operators bring it to the door and use a very long hose to vacuum their houses. It took two people to operate. Cleaning up the house is a lot of work. What household job do you like the least? the most?

February is American History Month. If you could go back in time and witness one event in American history, which one would it be? Tell why you would want to see that event.

Feb. 26: Today is the birthday of Grand Canyon National Park, which was established in 1919. What would be a good way to celebrate the birthday of this park, or of some other national park? Describe a birthday celebration you think would be appropriate.

Grand Canyon National Park was established in 1919. If you could visit only one national park, which one would you choose to visit? Why that one?

Feb. 27: Marian Anderson, African-American opera singer, was born in 1902. She was the first African-American to sing in a leading role at an opera in Carnegie Hall. Many people like opera, some like musical movies or videos, but others don't, and prefer their music without video or acting. How do you feel about this? Give reasons for your answer.

In 1827, the first Mardi Gras was held in New Orleans, LA. Despite the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, the people of New Orleans are determined to have Mardi Gras even if the city is not yet rebuilt. Why do you think they are so determined to have this holiday?

Feb. 28: Today, the Finns celebrate their national epic, the Kalevala, which tells in poetic form the legends of prehistoric Finland. If this was to be a day to celebrate a poem or story you particularly like, what poem or story would you choose to celebrate? Why do you like that poem or story so much?

Today is the birthday of the Euro. In 2002, 12 European nations decided to have only one form of money. Francs, marks, lira, guilders, krona, and several other forms of money ceased to be made. The countries did this to help make trade and travel among those countries easier and faster. The countries held contest for designs for the new money. If the US had a contest to redesign all our money, what are some things you think the new bills or coins should have on them?

Most of the people of Curiepe, Venezuela, make their living fishing for sardines. Every year on this day, they have a funeral for the sardines they have caught during the previous year. The funeral serves to remind them of the need to protect the sardines from overfishing and pollution. Describe another ceremony or celebration that would help to remind people of the need to take care of the natural world.

Feb. 29: Poet Howard Nemerov was born in 1920. He won the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry and served as Poet Laureate of the United States. He has said, "Poetry makes things happen, but rarely what the poet wants." Why do you think he said this?

In 1930, the newly-independent nation of Hungary decided to become a monarchy, but did not choose a king or queen. Miklos Horthy, a Hungarian admiral who served in World War I, was chosen as regent, or temporary ruler, until a monarch could be found. He ruled as a dictator until 1944. Why do you think people might want to have a monarchy for a government, but not want a king? What disadvantages of any individual king might having a regent prevent? What problems might such a government form have?

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

DECEMBER, 2007

The character trait for December is RESPONSIBILITY.
Accountability
Responsibility

Monday, Dec. 3. 2007; Sir Rowland Hill was born in 1795. As Postmaster of England, he created the idea of the postage stamp, which allowed the sender to pay for the cost of a letter. Before that, the receivers could look at the mail, select what they wanted to pay for, and pay for only as much mail as they wanted, or could afford. This meant that poor people were seldom able to get mail and the post office was going broke with undelivered mail. But Sir Rowland's system meant that receivers would get junk mail, even if they did not want it, something he never anticipated. Make a column list of the advantages of each system, then write a paragraph saying which one you think is best, and why.
Tuesday, Dec. 4, 2007: In 1872, a British ship spotted and took in tow the Marie Celeste, an American vessel with no one on it. It was seaworthy, well-supplied, and intact, with everything in perfect order. No reason for abandoning the ship was mentioned in the log. No one ever came forward to say why the crew had abandoned it, or where they had gone. The Marie Celeste is now considered one of the great mysteries of the sea from that time. What do you think happened to the crew and passengers on the Marie Celeste? Tell why you think so.
Wednesday, Dec. 5, 2007: Jose Carreras, Spanish opera tenor, was born in 1946. He, Placido Domingo, and Luciano Pavarotti presented many programs as the "Three Tenors," introducing many people to opera and classical singing. In their programs, they often sang traditional Christmas songs from many countries. Make a list of 5 of your favorite Christmas songs. Why do you like each of those songs?
Thursday, Dec. 6, 2007: Joyce Kilmer, American poet died fighting in World War I, was born in 1886. His most famous poem is "Trees."

Trees

(For Mrs. Henry Mills Alden)

I think that I shall never see
A poem lovely as a tree.

A tree whose hungry mouth is pressed
Against the earth's sweet flowing breast;

A tree that looks at God all day,
And lifts her leafy arms to pray;

A tree that may in Summer wear
A nest of robins in her hair;

Upon whose bosom snow has lain;
Who intimately lives with rain.

Poems are made by fools like me,
But only God can make a tree.

This is a very simple poem, but has many deep meanings. What do you think Kilmer wanted people to learn from his poem?

Friday, Dec. 7, 2007: American author Willa Cather was born in 1876. She once wrote, "There are some things you learn best in calm, and some in storm." What are some of the things that you learn best in calm, and what are some things you learn best in storm? List three of each.

Monday, Dec. 10, 2007: In 1869, the territorial legislature of Wyoming granted women the right to vote in territorial elections. One of the reasons given was to make the territory more attractive to women settlers. The number of men in the territory outnumbered women by a wide majority, and the leaders were afraid many young men would leave the state looking for wives. The movement to give women the vote then spread to other states. An amendment was added to the Constitution, and women were allowed to vote everywhere in the country in 1920. Why do you think it took 51 years for women to get the vote all over the country?
Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2007: Nobel-prize wining Russian author Alexandr Solzhenitzyn was born in 1918. He once wrote, "It is easier to be wise for others than for ourselves." What do you think he meant by that?
Wednesday, Dec. 12, 2007: The first airplane made entirely of metal, a German Junkers J1, flew for the first time in 1915. The development of light, strong metals made it possible to make bigger airplanes that could fly farther and faster, and carry more cargo. Suppose that no way to make a metal airplane had been found, so that air travel remained expensive, dangerous, and impractical for long distances. How do you think modern life would be changed without inexpensive travel and transport by air? List 4 changes.
Thursday, Dec. 13, 2007: In 1642, Dutch explorer Abel Tasman becomes the first European to sight the islands of New Zealand. A month before, he had spotted the island now known as Tasmania. He name New Zealand for one of the provinces of Holland, although the Maori people had lived on the islands for many centuries and had their own names. Suppose you were an explore and discovered a previously-unknown island. What would you name it? Why that name?
Friday, Dec. 14, 2007: British King George VI was born in 1895. He reigned from 1936 to 1952. After his death, his daughter became Queen Elizabeth II and is still reigning. George only became king when his older brother abdicated, or resigned the throne. George was quiet and shy, had a bad stutter, and was not all ready to be king, preferring life as a British navy officer, but felt he had to do it because it was his duty. Suppose, like George (or Harry Potter) you discovered that you had inherited an important job you did not want. Would you take the job, or refuse it? Explain your decision.

Monday, Dec. 17, 2007: In 1790, the huge Aztec Sun Stone, a circular calendar used to predict the seasons was discovered in Mexico City. We depend on calendars to help us plan our daily activities. What would happen if suddenly the year consisted of only 355 days? How would you suggest we change our calendars to fit the new year length? Where would you take the 10 days from?
Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2007: In 1779, the famous English clown Joseph Grimaldi was born. He invented many clown routines, including the sad clown. He was so popular that clowns are often called "joeys" in his honor, and a yearly celebration of his life is held in London, attended by clowns from all over the world. Would you like to be a clown? What are 5 things a good clown must be able to do?
Wednesday, Dec. 19, 2007: In 1777, George Washington and the Continental Army begin their winter at Valley Forge. Washington knew it was not a good place to camp, but wanted to keep his army close to the British to protect the farmers of western Pennsylvania. Imagine you were a member of Washington's army. Describe some of the problems you think he had.
Thursday, Dec. 20 2007: The first electricity generated by atomic power was produced in 1951 at the Argonne National Laboratory, near Chicago, IL. Although atomic power plants do not produce smoke, many people do not want to have one near their homes. How would you feel if you learned that an atomic power plant was going to be built near your house? Write a paragraph explaining your feelings and the reasons for them.
Friday, Dec. 21, 2007: The first modern crossword puzzle was published in New York's World in 1913. Many people like to do crosswords, or even to design them. What pencil-and-paper games, like crossword puzzles do you like to play. List 5 and rank them according to how much you enjoy them, then tell why you like your favorite best.

Have a wonderful holiday season!

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

NOVEMBER, 2007

The character trait for November is CARING.

Kindness
Consideration
Compassion
Treating others as you would wish to be treated

Thursday, Nov. 1, 2007: The Model T Ford went out of production, replaced by the Model A, in 1927. The Model T was inexpensive, rugged, easy to repair, but also slow, uncomfortable, and hard to start. The Model A was prettier, more comfortable and easy to drive, but cost a lost more. Some people loved the change, but others didn't. Have you ever had a product you like that was changed? How did the changes improve it? Were there parts of the changes that you did not like? Describe your reaction.
Friday, Nov. 2, 2007: In 1948, President Harry S Truman was reelected, despite the polls which showed that his opponent, Governor Thomas E. Dewey, was ahead. The Chicago Daily News even printed an edition with the headline, "Dewey Defeats Truman." Have you, or a team you were on or rooted for, ever won a game or contest where everyone thought you would lose? How did you feel? What did you do to celebrate your victory?

Monday, Nov. 5, 2007: In 1930, Sinclair Lewis became the first American to win a Nobel Prize in Literature for his novels, such as Babbitt, Elmer Gantry, and Arrowsmith, about life in the American midwest. If you were going to be a writer of novels, what would you like to write about? Why do you think that topic is interesting?
Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2007: James Naismith, the inventor of basketball, was born in 1861. Although many Americans like basketball better, soccer is more popular world-wide. Which of these sports do you prefer? Why do you like that one better?
Wednesday, Nov. 7, 2007: In 1869, the first city-to-city bicycle race was held from Paris to Rouen, France. An Englishman named James Moore won the 84-mile race with a speed of 8 miles per hour. Although bicycles are not as fast or powerful as cars, they do not pollute, so many people think we would be better off if more people used them. Write a paragraph about something your community could do to encourage more people to use bicycles.
Thursday, Nov. 8, 2007: In 1960, John F. Kennedy became the youngest man ever to be elected President of the United States. He once said, "The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining." What do you think he meant by that?
Friday, Nov. 9. 2007: Inventor Gail Borden was born 1801. He invented a way to make and preserve evaporated milk, which is sold in a can and does not have to be kept in a refrigerator until the can is open. Since people did not have refrigerators, he sold his invention in very small cans, so that people could use it all and not waste. How would your life be different if there were no refrigerators? List 5 ways.

Monday, Nov. 12, 2007: In 1905, the people of Norway voted to have a king rather than a president as leader of their government. Norway still has kings and queens, rather than presidents. List three advantages of having a king, and three of having a president.
Tuesday, Nov. 13, 2007: Robert Louis Stevenson, author of Treasure Island and Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, was born in 1850. He wrote, "Keep your fears to yourself, but share your courage with others." What do you think he meant by sharing your courage with others?
Wednesday, Nov. 14, 2007: In 1940, German bombers attack the city of Coventry, England. Although their new secret invention, radar, allowed the British to know in advance about the attack, no warning was sent in order to keep the new invention a secret, and more than 1000 people died. Some say the British government did right, because radar became an important tool in the fight against the Nazis. Others think the leaders should have sent warnings, even if it gave away the secret. How do you feel about this? If you were advising Winston Churchill, Britain's leader in World War II about the upcoming attack on Coventry, what would you advise? What reasons would you give for your advice?
Thursday, Nov. 15, 2007: The Articles of Confederation, setting up the first government of the new United States, were adopted in 1777. Although the government set up by the Articles accomplished many important things, including waging and winning the Revolutionary War, it proved in time to be ineffective in uniting the nation in peacetime. It was replaced by the Constitution in 1789. One of the main problems of the Articles is that they did not set up a single leader for the nation. Why do you think that having a single leader in charge seems to work so much better than having many leaders?
Friday, Nov. 16, 2007: In 1969, the first rocks brought back from the moon went on display at the Museum of Natural History in New York City. Many experiments have been done to these rocks to discover facts about the moon. If you had a moon rock, what would you do with it?

Monday, Nov. 19. 2007: Indira Gandhi was born in 1917. Her father was the first Prime Minister of India, and later she was elected to the same post, becoming the first woman elected Prime Minister of a major nation. She once said, "People tend to forget their duties but remember their rights." What do you think she meant by that? Do you agree with her? Give reasons for your answer.
Tuesday, Nov. 20, 2007: The automatic traffic signal was patented in 1923. Traffic signals make traveling safer, but waiting for the light to change can be very annoying. List 5 things that annoy you, even though you know they make your life better. Can you identify any feature things on your list have in common?
Wednesday, Nov. 21, 2007: In 1990, stockbroker Michael Milken was convicted of stock market fraud. Although he had made many millions honestly and become one of the world's richest men, he started a scheme to cheat other investors that led to his arrest, conviction, and imprisonment. Why do you think someone who was already rich would cheat to get even more money? Write a paragraph about your reasons.
Thursday, Nov. 22, 2007: In 1817, the notorious pirate Edward Teach (Blackbeard) was killed in a long, bloody battle with an English naval ship. Despite movies like Pirates of the Caribbean, the life of a pirate was often brutal, frequently dangerous, and usually short. List four other professions or jobs that often seem glamorous in the movies or on TV, but usually are not as nice as they seem. Beside each one, tell a disadvantage of that job that makes it less pleasant.
Friday, Nov. 23. 2007: Actor Boris Karloff was born in 1887. He was the first actor to play Frankenstein's monster, and his portrayal is still considered the best. He had a long career playing monsters and villains, although he was in fact a very kind, pleasant man. How would you like to be famous as an actor who played villains and bad people?

Monday, Nov. 26, 2007: In 1778, Captain James Cook and his ship became the first Europeans to visit the Hawaiian Islands. He charted them, and named them the Sandwich Isles, in honor of the Earl of Sandwich, the head of the British navy. Many places have two names, an older one given by earlier people who lived there, and a newer one given later. Sometimes the new name stick and replaces the old one, but sometimes the old name is preferred, as happened with the Hawaiian Islands. If you had to give a new name to something in your community, such as your school or town or one of the streets, what name would you choose to change, and what would you change it to? Tell the reason you would make that change.
Tuesday, Nov. 27, 2007: Martial artist and actor Bruce Lee was born in 1940. If you were offered the chance to learn one of the martial arts, which one would you learn? Why that one?
Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2007: The Royal Society was founded in London in 1660. It was created to recognize and encourage scientists that do outstanding work, and is the oldest such organization in the English-speaking world. If you were going to start an organization to encourage a particular activity, what activity would you encourage? What would you name your organization? Explain your selections.
Thursday, Nov. 29, 2007: In 1890, the first Army-Navy football game was won by Navy, 24-0. Army vs. Navy is one of the most famous sport rivalries, but certainly not the only one. What sports rivalry is most interesting to you? Why are you interested in that rivalry?
Friday, Nov. 30, 2007: Writer Jonathan Swift, who wrote Gulliver's Travels, was born in 1667. He wrote "Invention is the talent of youth, as judgment is of age." What do you think he meant by this?

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

OCTOBER, 2007

The character trait for October is Self-Discipline.

Positive self-control of one's words, actions, impulses, and desires
Perseverance

Monday, Oct. 1, 2007: Former President Jimmy Carter was born in 1924. After he left the White House and retired, he joined Habitat for Humanity, a charity that organizes volunteers to help build houses for poor people. What would you like to do when you are old enough to retire?
Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2008: The first oil refinery in North Dakota was opened in 1954. Oil refineries are necessary if we are to have petroleum products like gasoline, plastics, and fertilizers, but the process produces a very bad smell that is spread by the wind. Many people don't want such industries near them, but yet want the things the industries make. Suppose someone proposes to build a very smelly industry near your house. What would you do about it?
Wednesday, Oct. 3, 2008: Every year since 1698, a dog market has been held in Fredricksburg, VA. Originally, the market was held to buy and sell hunting dogs, but now all kinds of dogs are included. To have a dog as a pet can be a lot of fun, but it also requires work to take care of it. List 5 things a dog owner must do for the dog to keep it healthy and happy.
Thursday, Oct. 4, 2007: Sputnik, the first artificial earth satellite was launched by the USSR in 1957. Since then, many more satellites have been launched, and are now used for communications and location-finding. The word Sputnik means "traveling companion" in Russian. If you were designing a new satellite to put into space, what name would you give it? Why that name?
Friday, Oct. 5, 2007: Enzo Ferarri wins his first car race at age 21 in 1919. He later started the Ferrari automobile company to make luxurious, very fast cars. Ferraris are beautiful and fast, but also very expensive. Some people like to spend extra money on cars. Others spend it on clothes, or music, or electronic gadgets. If you have some extra money, what do you like to do with it? Explain your choice.

Monday, Oct. 8, 2007: In 1919, the first transcontinental round-trip air race began. 63 airplanes participated. Each plane crew had to fly from one side of the continent to the other and back, but all could choose their own routes. If you had to plan a trip across the continent and back, what 10 places would you like to stop while on your trip?
Tuesday, Oct. 9, 2007: In 1992, a 30-pound meteorite fell onto a car in Peekskill, NY. Suppose a meteorite hit the ground near you. What would you do with it?
Wednesday, Oct. 10, 2007: It is often difficult to finish all the things you need to do on time. What are four methods you or people your age can use to help you organize yourself so you can finish the jobs you need to do?
Thursday, Oct. 11, 2007: Michelle Trachtenberg was born in 1985. She was the original actress to play Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Although human vampires do not exist, many people enjoy reading or watching stories about them. If you had to choose between a movie about vampires, space aliens, or werewolves, which one would you choose? If you don't like movies about any of them, what would you do while everyone else was at the movies?
Friday, Oct. 12, 2007: Because of the extremely accurate maps made by the British navy over several centuries, the nations of the world adopted the Greenwich meridian, a line from the North Pole to the South Pole that passes through the Royal Observatory at Greenwich, England, as the Prime meridian. Until then, each nation had used a line through its own observatory, so that maps from one country could not be used easily by another. Make a sketch map of a trip you have made, then briefly describe something that happened to you on the trip.

Monday, Oct. 15, 2007: In 1384, Queen Jadwiga of Poland had herself crowned king. Today, many titles that used to be differentiated by sex, such as postman, chairman, or waitress, are being given up. Instead we say mail carrier, chair or president, or attendant. Do you think we should give up the term queen for a female ruler, and call all rulers who inherit their jobs King, whether they are men or women? Why do you feel as you do?
Tuesday, Oct. 16, 2007: Irish writer Oscar Wilde was born in 1854. He said, "In this world there are only two tragedies. One is not getting what one wants, and the other is getting it." What do you think he meant by that?
Wednesday, Oct. 17, 2007: Today is the birthday of the Texas Rangers, who were organized in 1835. They are probably the best known state police organization in the United States. What are three good things and three bad things about being a police officer?
Thursday, Oct. 18, 2007: English poet Thomas Love Peacock was born in 1785. He wrote the following:

My thoughts by night are often filled
  With visions false as fair:
    For in the past alone, I build
      My castles in the air.
      - Castles in the Air (st. 1)

What do you think he meant by this verse?

Friday, Oct. 19, 2007: Playwright Tom Taylor was born in 1817. He was the author of the play Abraham Lincoln was watching when he was assassinated by John Wilkes Booth. His plays are almost never performed today. Plays in those days are a lot like TV programs today; some are popular and remembered, others are forgotten. Think of the TV programs you have enjoyed and remembered. What are three things all of them had in common?

Monday, Oct. 22, 2007: Hungarian composer Franz Liszt was born in 1811. He once said, "Beware of missing chances; otherwise it may be altogether too late some day." What do you think he meant by that?
Tuesday, Oct. 23, 2007: In 1970, a rocket-powered car driven by Gary Gabelich set a land speed record of just over 631 miles an hour. Some experts say that land speed records by rocket or jet-powered cars should not count, but only records set by usable land vehicles like cars, trucks, or motorcycles. Do you agree with them, or do you think that land speed records set by any kind of vehicle should count? What reasons do you have to back up your opinion?
Wednesday, Oct. 24, 2007: In 1929, a huge fall in the prices of stocks took place on the New York Stock Exchange, the nation's largest. So many investors lost money that the day became known as Black Thursday, and is considered the beginning of the Great Depression, a long period of bad times, when many workers lost their jobs and many families suffered. Events like the Great Depression are regarded as reasons for people to save some money each payday. What are 4 ways you could save money for yourself?
Thursday, Oct. 25, 2007: The first electronic watch was produced by 1960 by Bulova, a Swiss watch company. Although the first ones were very expensive, the price for electronic watches have come down a long way, so that now almost all watches and clocks are electronic. Watches are now fashion items. Describe a watch you think would be popular with people your age. What features would it have? What would the watch and watchband look like?
Friday, Oct. 26, 2007: The fourth week of October is National Pretzel Week. Write a paragraph in praise of the pretzel.

Monday, Oct. 29, 2007: In 1947, American meteorologists used planes to spread dry ice crystals on cloud in New Hampshire, producing a rainstorm that put out a forest fire. It was the first practical effort to control the weather, but was very expensive, requiring many planes and aircrews and huge amounts of dry ice. Some people think that controlling the weather will only cause constant arguments and quarrels, since different groups of people will want different kinds of weather. If a cheaper practical way of controlling the weather could be found, how do you think that problem could be solved?
Tuesday, Oct. 30, 2007: In 1938, actor and producer Orson Welles put on a radio play based on Jules Verne's story The War of the Worlds. Many radio listeners missed the announcements that the program was just a play, and thought it told about a real invasion from Mars. People panicked, flooding police stations with calls, or fleeing their homes for places they thought might be safe. Have you, or someone you know, ever believed something was real, but later found out that it was not? What fooled you (or the people you know)? What did you (or they) do?
Wednesday, Oct. 31, 2007: Dutch artist Jan Vermeer was born in the city of Delft in 1623. Vermeer's pictures are not only beautiful and realistic, but mysterious, since they show people doing things that are not fully explained, such as reading a note the viewer cannot read, or gesturing to someone outside the picture. Several writers have written novels or stories telling what they imagine what was going on with the people in Vermeer's pictures. Find a picture in one of the books you have or are in your classroom, and write a short narrative about what the people in the picture might be doing. If the picture already has a caption that explains it, think of some other reason they might be doing what the picture shows.

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

September, 2007

The character trait for September is RESPECT.

Self-respect
Respect for others and their ideas
High regard for other people, property, self, and country
Value of people as human beings

Monday, Sept. 3, 2007: Richard the Lion-Heart was crowned king of England in 1189. It was common in the Middle Ages for people to be given a cognomen, or popular name, like Lion-Heart, because of some important trait they displayed. If you were to be given a cognomen, what would you like to be called? Why do you think that cognomen would fit you?
Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2007: In 476, the last Western Roman Emperor, a 12-year-old boy named Romulus Augustulus, was deposed by Odacer, a general of the Lombard people. He proclaimed himself King of Lombardy rather than Emperor of Rome. This date is therefore considered the end of the Roman Empire in western Europe, although the eastern part (more Greek than Roman) continued to exist for a thousand more years. Suppose the Roman Empire had not fallen, and all of Europe had remained united in one empire. How do you think the way we live today would be different? List 5 ways.
Wednesday, Sept. 5, 2007: In 1997, Mother Teresa of Calcutta, who worked for many years to help the homeless poor people of India and other countries, died in 1997. She once wrote, "The good you do will often be forgotten. Do good anyway." What do you think she meant by that?
Thursday, Sept. 6, 2007: In 1844, explorer John C. Fremont arrived on the shore of the Great Salt Lake. Although many Indians and trappers had seen it, his description of it was the first to be published, and he gave it the name Great Salt Lake. It is a very logical name, but not very exciting. If the people of Utah ever decided to rename the Great Salt Lake, what do you thing would be a good name for it instead? Defend your choice.

Monday, Sept. 10, 2007: In 1942, gasoline rationing began in the United States. Because of World War II, so much of America's gas was needed for the armed forces that little was left for civilians. To share it fairly, the government gave out rationing tickets, which allowed a driver to buy so many gallons a week. People with jobs that required a lot of traveling were allowed more than others. People were encouraged to walk or use a bicycle for short trips. Many young people earned money by running errands for adults on their bicycles. Because of the high price of gas today, some people have suggested that rationing might be a way to bring prices down. Does this sound like a good idea to you? What are some other ways that you think would help cut down on the use of gas?
Tuesday, Sept. 11, 2007: In 1789, President Washington appointed Alexander Hamilton to be the first Secretary of the Treasury of the United States. Hamilton designed our money system, named our unit of money the dollar, and said that the dollar should be divided into 100 cents. Suppose you were asked to design a new money system for your country. If you could not use the old name, what would you call your new money? How many of what units would it be divided? Explain your choices.
Wednesday, Sept. 12, 2007: American critic and journalist H.L. Mencken was born in 1880. He once said, "Conscience is the inner voice that warns us that someone may be looking." What do you think he meant by that?
Thursday, Sept. 13, 2007: The first known casualty of a car accident was recorded in 1899. A car struck and killed a pedestrian in New York City near Central Park. Although safer cars have decreased the number of people killed in car accidents, many pedestrians are still killed. List 4 safety rules a walker or bike rider should follow.
Friday, Sept. 14, 2007: In 1905, the first Isle of Man car race was held on that island in the Irish Sea. Important races for both cars and motorcycles are held every year on that island. Races of all kinds are held in many places in the world. If you could visit a race held in another place, where would you like to go, and what race would you like to watch? Why that place and race?

Monday, Sept. 17, 2007: In 1683, Dutch lens maker Anton van Leeuwenhoek created a microscope and first observed live bacteria. Thanks to his discovery, human beings have been able to cure or prevent many dangerous diseases, but many other diseases afflict people still. If you were in charge of medical research, on which disease would you focus your efforts? Why that one?
Tuesday, Sept. 18. 2007: Today is the birthday of the U.S. Capitol Building. President George Washington laid its cornerstone, which had been plated with silver, in 1793. The central feature of the Capitol is its dome, which has been copied or imitated by many state capitol buildings. If you were designing a new capitol for a state, would you put a dome on it? Why or why not?
Wednesday, Sept. 19, 2007: In 1778, a committee of the Continental Congress presented the first budget for the American government. Budgets are hard to make, and sometimes very hard to stick to. Have you, or someone you know, ever tried to live on a budget? How did that work out? Describe the experience.

Thursday, Sept. 20, 2007: Poet and novelist Stevie Smith was born in 1902. Here is a poem she wrote:

Happiness

Happiness is silent, or speaks equivocally for friends,
Grief is explicit and her song never ends,
Happiness is like England, and will not state a case,
Grief, like Guilt, rushes in and talks apace.

What do you think the she meant by this poem?

Friday, Sept. 21, 2007: Teichi Igarashi was born in 1886. He was a mountain climber, and climbed to the top of Mount Everest when he was 99 years old. When you are 99 years old, what do you think you might do to celebrate?

Monday, Sept. 24, 2007: Jim Henson, creator of the Muppets, was born in 1936. Which of the Muppet characters is your favorite? Why do you like that character?
Tuesday, Sept. 25, 2007: In 1789, congress approved the proposed constitutional amendments that later became known as the Bill of Rights and sent them to the states for approval. The Bill of Rights requires the government to respect the rights of Americans. List 5 rights that you have, and tell which one you think is the most important, and why.
Wednesday, Sept. 26, 2007: In 1871, the method for making Portland cement was introduced to the USA by David Oliver Saylor. When mixed with sand and water, Portland cement forms a pasty mixture which slowly hardens into concrete. Before it hardens, it can be formed into many useful shapes. Although it has been used for many other kinds of buildings, very few homes are made of concrete. Give some advantages and disadvantages of a home made from concrete.
Thursday, Sept. 27, 2007: In 1825, the Stockton and Darlington Railway in England begins passenger service. 450 people become the first passengers to make a scheduled trip on a railway. Railroads, buses, cars, ships, and airplanes are all common means of transporting people long distance. If you had to make a long trip, which would be your preferred way of travel? Why that way?
Friday, Sept. 28, 2007: Seymour Cray, inventor of the world's first supercomputer, was born in 1925. Supercomputers are extremely powerful, and used for solving very large, complex problems, such as worldwide weather predictions several months in advance. What are 5 ways you or people you know use computers? Which of these do you think is the most important?

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

August, 2007

The character trait for August is HOPE:

Determination to work for the best
Refusal to give in to despair
Willingness to look for the best in people and situations

Wednesday, Aug. 1, 2006: People living in three small communities in a remote area of the Alps banded together in 1291 to protect themselves from outside invaders who claimed their territory. This tiny group eventually grew into the nation of Switzerland. Have you ever heard of something small that grew into something important? List 4 things that seem small or unimportant but can have a major impact on your life.
Thursday, Aug. 2, 2006: Actress Myrna Loy was born in 1905. At one time, she was one of the most famous of Hollywood's stars. She once said, "Life is not a having and a getting, but a being and a becoming." What do you think she meant by that?
Friday, Aug. 3, 2007: The first Mickey Mouse watch was sold in 1933 for $2.75. Today Mickey Mouse watches that old are worth hundreds of dollars. What cheap or common items we are familiar with today may become valuable and rare in 50 years or so? List 5, and tell why you think those things will be valuable.

Monday, Aug. 6, 2007: In 1181, Chinese and Japanese astronomers recorded a supernova that appeared in the constellation Cassiopeia. It grew to be the brightest star in the sky, then slowly faded out. Modern telescopes report it is now a neutron star, about the size of the moon, rotating 15 times a second. Being an astronomer requires great patience, late hours, and very careful observations. Tell whether you think you would be a good astronomer or not, and why you think so.
Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2007: In 1947, archeologist Thor Heyerdahl set sail from Peru on a raft made of balsa wood called Kon Tiki, to prove his theory that the ancient peoples of South America could have set up colonies in Polynesia. He landed on this day on a Polynesian island after being at sea 101 days. He claimed that his success proved that his theory was true; critics pointed out that the journey had been very hard and had been successful only by luck, and that his theory was still not proved. How do you feel about his idea? Why do you think as you do?
Wednesday, Aug. 8, 2007: In 1899, A.T. Marshall patented the refrigerator. Name 4 ways your life would be different if you had no refrigerator.
Thursday, Aug. 9. 2007: Engineer Thomas Telford was born in 1757 in Scotland. He pioneered many modern construction techniques, including the use of metal for building bridges. He built the first successful suspension bridge, the Menai Bridge in Wales, which is still in use. If you could be in charge of building something, what would you like to build? Describe it so that others can imagine what it would look like.
Friday, Aug. 10, 2007: In 1893, Rudolf Diesel began testing the engine later named for him. If you were to invent something that would be named for you, what would you like to invent? Why would your invention be important to other people?

Monday, Aug. 13, 2007: Johann Christoph Denner, the inventor of the clarinet, was born in 1655. Which wind instrument (either woodwind or brass) is your favorite? What are three reasons you like that instrument?
Tuesday, Aug. 14, 2007: In 1834, 19-year-old Richard Henry Dana, the son of a prominent Boston family, grows tired of his ordinary life takes a job as a seaman on a sailing ship. He later told about his experience in Two Years Before the Mast, which revealed the harsh and dangerous life of ordinary sailors. If you volunteered for something that required you to be away from your family for at least two years, what would you do to say goodbye and reassure your family?
Wednesday, Aug. 15, 2007: The new telephone created new problems in language. The inventor suggested that telephone users greet each other with "Ahoy!" like sailors. Thomas Edison suggested, "Hello," which before had been used only by fox hunters to mean, "I have seen the fox!" The Japanese have a special greeting that is used only on the telephone: "Mushi, mushi," which means "I am here!" Suppose a new method of communication came along, like Instant Messaging, but without the computer. Invent a new word to use as a special greeting for this new way of communicating. Defend your idea by telling why it is a good one.
Thursday, Aug. 16, 2007: Singer and actress Madonna was born in 1958. She once said, "Poor is the man whose pleasure depend on the permission of another." What do you think she meant by that?
Friday, Aug. 17, 2007: In 1563, King Charles IX of France is declared an adult and allowed to rule on his own, although he is only 13 years old. Presently, in most nations, young people are considered adults at age 18, but it varies from 16 to 25. At what age do you think a person is a complete adult, able to live on his or her own without supervision or restriction? Give three reasons for your choice.

Monday, Aug. 20, 2007: H.P. Lovecraft, American author of weird and scary stories, was born in 1890. Edgar Allan Poe, Stephen King, R.L. Stein, and many other authors have become popular because of their scary stories. If you like scary stories, tell which scary author you like. If you don't like them, tell what kind you like instead. Explain your answer.
Tuesday, Aug. 21, 2007: in 1912, Arthur R. Eldred from Oceanside, NY, becomes the first American Boy Scout to reach the rank of Eagle, the highest rank in scouting. The motto of the Boy Scouts is "Be prepared." What kind of emergencies have you had in your community? What can you do to be prepared for them?
Wednesday, Aug. 22, 2007: In 1969, the world's tallest totem pole was dedicated in Kake, Alaska. A totem pole consists of symbolic animals that tell about the people who live in a certain place. Some animals are already considered symbols; for instance, the owl is considered the symbol of wisdom. Select three animals that are not already symbols and think of something they could symbolize. Explain what that animal is a good symbol for that thing.
Thursday, Aug. 23, 2007: In ancient Rome, people sacrificed animals to Vulcan, the God of Fire and of volcanoes. Vulcanologists are scientists who study volcanoes, seeking to learn to predict their eruptions. It is interesting, but can be very dangerous. List 5 qualities a person must have to be a good vulcanologist. Tell why you chose those qualities.
Friday, Aug. 24, 2007: British painter George Stubbs was born in 1724. His most famous paintings are pictures of horses, or people and horses. Other painters have specialized in animals: Audubon painted birds, others painted fish, cats, or birds. If you were going to paint animals, what kind of animals would you like to paint? Why those animals?

Monday, Aug. 27. 2007: The first jet plane first flew in 1939. It was a Heinkel HE-178, a German fighter plane, reached a speed on 375 miles per hour, and was piloted by Flight Captain Erich Warsitz. Piloting a brand new plane is a dangerous job. Think of three more dangerous jobs; tell what problems make those jobs dangerous.
Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2007: In 1932, the city of Bunol, Spain, banned bullfighting and substituted a Tomato Throwing Festival. Every year, thousands of people come to Bunol and spend the day throwing tomatoes at each other. Would you like to visit this festival? How would you prepare for a day of throwing tomatoes (and being thrown at)?
Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2007: English philosopher John Locke was born 1622. He first wrote many of the ideas used by Thomas Jefferson in writing the Declaration of Independence. He wrote, "The actions of men are the best interpreters of their thoughts." What do you think he meant by that?
Thursday, Aug. 30, 2007: Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley was born in 1797. Her father and mother were famous writers, and she married the poet Percy Shelley. At age 19, she was at a party where everyone agreed to write a story for fun, with a prize for the best one. She won with a story that later was expanded into the novel Frankenstein. Nothing she wrote afterwards was as popular or as famous. How do you think it would feel to become famous for something you did for when you were very young, which you never were able to equal afterwards?
Friday, Aug. 31, 2007: In 1997, Diana, Princess of Wales, died in a car accident in Paris. The only person in the car who survived, Diana's bodyguard Trevor Rees Jones, was also the only one wearing a seat belt. Thing of something (an ad, a slogan, or a poster) that will encourage people to wear their seat belts.

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

JUNE, 2007

The character trait for June is CHARITY.

Lovingkindness
Benevolence
Concern for the well-being of others

Friday, June 1, 2007: The first seismograph was installed in California in 1888. Natural disasters, such as earthquakes, hurricanes, forest fires, floods, tornadoes, blizzards, and droughts, happen in every part of the world. Have you ever survived a natural disaster? Tell what it was, and what you did.

Monday, June 11, 2007: Football coach Vince Lombardy was born in 1913. He was a very successful and highly respected coach. After his retirement, the NFL named the annual coaching award for the best professional football coach after him. He believed strongly in conditioning, and once said, "Fatigue makes cowards of us all." What do you think he meant by that?
Tuesday, June 12, 2007: In 1867, Austria and Hungary join together as the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The two countries had the same ruler, who became emperor of the whole country. What are four problems two countries, with two different languages, would have combining to become one country?
Wednesday, June 13, 2007: Dorothy L. Sayers, novelist and playwright, was born in 1893. She once wrote, "The great advantage about telling the truth is that nobody ever believes it." Have you ever told the truth, but not been believed? How did that make you feel?
Thursday, June 14, 2007: A handyman from Vermont, Isaac Fischer, Jr., patents sandpaper in 1834. Prior to his invention, all smoothing of materials had to be done with files or rasps. Many jobs and hobbies make use of sandpaper. Have you ever used sandpaper for any projects you have done? Tell about it. If you haven't used sandpaper, tell about some other interesting project you have done?
Friday, June 15, 2007: George Washington was appointed commander of the armed forces of the American colonies in 1775, a year before they became the United States. Make a list of the problems he would have in trying to organize his new command.

Monday, June 18, 2007: French Emperor Napoleon is defeated by an allied army led by the Duke of Wellington at Waterloo in 1815. Wellington said, "The battle of Waterloo was won on the playing fields of Eton," the famous high school he attended before he joined the army. How do you think his playing sports in school helped him as a general? Do you think playing sports helps people who enter other professions?
Tuesday, June 19, 2007: The first movie theater opened in Pittsburg, PA, in 1905. Called a nickelodeon, because admission was only a nickel, the early theatres were generally small and showed only very short films because of the low power of the projectors. Do you prefer to watch a movie at a theater, or wait until you can see it at home on disk? Give reasons for your answer.
Wednesday, June 20, 2007: In 1782, Congress approved the design for the Great Seal of the United States, which is shown on the back of the one-dollar bill. They chose as a motto "E Pluribus Unum," a Latin phrase that means, "Out of many, one," recalling how the United States was made into one nation out of many states. Some people think the motto is not very exciting or dramatic for a nation like the United States. If there was a competition to choose a new motto for the US, what would you suggest? Tell why your suggestion would be appropriate. (Teachers in other countries: discuss the motto of your nation and what it means, and ask your students to consider alternate mottoes.)
Thursday, June 21, 2007: French writer Jean-Paul Sartre (pronounced SART-ruh) was born in 1905. He wrote, "Freedom is what you do with what's been done to you." What do you think he meant by that?
Friday, June 21, 2007: The first law allowing 18-year-olds to vote in all federal elections was signed in 1970. Young soldiers fighting in Vietnam had complained that they could fight and die for their country, but were not allowed to vote in most states until they were 21. Many people who are eligible to vote do not do so; some countries, including Australia, require people to vote or pay a fine. Do you think that having to pay a fine if you don't vote is a good idea? Defend your answer.

Monday, June 25, 2007: The Battle of the Little Bighorn River was fought in 1876. Sioux warriors let by Chief Crazy Horse defeated the 7th Cavalry, commanded by General George Custer. Most scholars believe Custer was defeated because of his poor planning before the battle. Have you ever failed to accomplish something because of poor planning by yourself or someone else. Describe what happened and tell how better planning may have made the outcome better.
Tuesday, June 26, 2007: Pearl Buck, American daughter of Chinese missionaries, was born in 1892. She came to admire the Chinese people, especially the poor farmers, and her books tell in very realistic ways of their lives. Although they were set almost entirely in Asia, they became very popular in the United States and Europe. Many people like reading about times and places that are different from their own. What other countries or times do you like to read about? Tell some of the stories or novels you have read about those places and times that you enjoy.
Wednesday, June 27, 2007: In 1787, Edward Gibbon, a famous English historian, completed the manuscript for his three-volume History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire. Later, a servant burned most of the manuscript by mistake, and he had to rewrite it. Have you ever had something you worked hard on ruined by the carelessness of others? How did you feel? What did you do?
Thursday, Jun 28, 2007: Congress declares the first Labor Day holiday in 1894. The holiday is now celebrated in September of each year. Think of something you have done on a Labor Day holiday that you really enjoyed. Tell about your experience.
Friday, June 29, 2007: In 1950, the US won its first-ever World Cup game by defeating England 1-0. The US did not win another World Cup game until 1994. Why do you think the US is so bad in World Cup play. List five things the US could do to makes its teams more successful.

There will be no prompts for the month of July.

Have a good summer!

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

MAY, 2007

The character trait for May is TEMPERANCE.

Appropriate reactions to events in our lives
Moderation
Avoidance of extremes
Tuesday, May 1, 2007: Joseph Addison was born in 1672. He and Sir Richard Steele are credited with the invention of the personal essay in magazines they published. Essays are considered non-fiction, as are biographies, editorials, and articles in books, magazines, or newspapers. What kind of non-fiction do you prefer to read. Why do you like that kind?
Wednesday, May 2, 2007: Manfred von Richthofen was born in 1892. A brave and daring pilot for in the German air force in World War I, he invented many of the tactics used by modern fighter pilots. He was called the Red Baron because he had his plane painted bright red. If you could meet a hero of the army, navy, air force, or Marine Corps, what would you ask them? List 5 questions.
Thursday, May, 3, 2007: West Virginia becomes the first American state to impose a sales tax in 1921. Some people think sales taxes are fairer that other kinds of taxes. Others think other kinds of taxes are fairer. Since taxes are necessary if we are to have public services, what kind of taxes do you think are the fairest: sales taxes, income taxes, or property taxes? Give reasons for your choice.
Friday, May 4, 2007: The first horserace to be called a Derby was held in 1780. The race was named for one of the two men who put up the prize money for it. Some people like horse races. Would you like to ride a horse? Imagine riding a horse on a short trip. Where would you like to ride? Where would you go? What would you do on your trip?

Monday, May 7, 2007: In 1966, "Monday, Monday" became the first number one song recorded by a group consisting of equal numbers of men an women. The Momas and the Papas and two men and two women; earlier groups had been either all one sex, or only one person of the other sex. Would you like to participate in a successful singing group? What are some problems people in such groups might have that a single singer would not have? List as many as you can.
Tuesday, May 8, 2007: The first glass of Coca-Cola was sold in Atlanta, GA, in 1886. Which kind of soft drink do you prefer? Why do you like that drink more than others?
Wednesday, May 9, 2007: In 1926, Admiral Richard E. Byrd and Floyd Bennett became the first to fly an airplane over the north pole. Admiral Byrd once said, "A static hero is a public liability. Progress grows out of motion." What do you think he meant by that?
Thursday, May 9, 2007: In 1933, Nazi mobs burn school and library books which contain ideas they disagree with. Thousands of books were burned in huge public bonfires. Many authors used the burning of their books to sell thousands of additional copies to people who were curious about what the Nazis disliked. If you were going to write a book, what would your write about?
Friday, May 10, 2007: In 1989, Kenya begins a campaign to ban the sale of ivory in order to protect its endangered elephant herds. What endangered animal are you most interested in? Tell why that animal should be protected.

Monday, May 14, 2007: Alfred, Lord Tennyson, published his first book of poems in 1842. He later became Poet Laureate of Great Britain. He once wrote, "Knowledge comes, but wisdom lingers." What do you think he meant by that?
Tuesday, May 15, 2007: In 1942, the Woman's Auxiliary Army Corps became the first military unit for women in the United States. Have you ever considered becoming part of the armed forces? Which branch of the armed forces might you join? Why that branch? If you would not join one, why do you feel as you do?
Wednesday, May 16, 2007: William Henry Seward was born in 1801. He was the Secretary of State that arranged for the United States to purchase Alaska. If you could visit Alaska or some other land in the far north, what would you like to see? (If you live in the far north, what would you like to see in the tropics?)
Thursday, May 17, 2007: In 1970, Norwegian explorer Thor Heyerdahl sailed from the coast of Africa to the Bahamas in a raft build like those used by the ancient Egyptians, seeking to prove that people of ancient times could have traded across the Atlantic. His voyage took 57 days. How would you like to cross the ocean on a raft? What are some of the supplies would you take? What are some problems you would face?
Friday, May 18, 2007: In 1951, the United Nations moved into its permanent building in New York. Its design was the result of a contest among architects. Suppose you were asked to design a building for a new organization. What kind of building would you design? What are some things you would want it to include?

Monday, May 21, 2007: Bicycles were first used on the streets of New York city in 1819. Although they did not have much of the equipment of modern bicycles (brakes, gears, inflatable tires), they were still faster than walking. Bicycling can be fun, but it also can be dangerous. List five safety rules anyone riding a bicycle should follow.
Tuesday, May 22, 2007: In 1966, Bill Cosby won an Emmy for Best Actor in the TV series I Spy. He was the first African-American actor to star in a regular dramatic series on television. He once said, "I don't know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everybody." What do you think he meant by that?
Wednesday, May 23, 2007: The first successful trip across the entire United States by a car began in San Francisco in 1903. If you were planning a trip across the United States by car, what cities or scenic places would you like to visit along your way? List 5 places, and tell why you would want to visit that place.
Thursday, May 24, 2007: The first auto repair shop in the US opens in Boston in 1899. Have you, or anyone you know, ever been in a car that broke down on the highway? Tell what happened to you, or the person who broke down. (If necessary, imagine what you would do if it happened to you.)
Friday, May 25, 2007: The first Star Wars movie opened in 1977. It featured two robots, C3PO and R2D2. If you could have a robot to help you with a particular task, what task would you want it to do for you? What do you imagine such a robot would look like?

Monday, May 28, 2007: In 1902, Owen Wister published The Virginian, considered the first modern American novel of the Old West. Before then, all western novels featured simple plots and unrealistic characters. Wister's novel was the first to show realistic people and situations. Both kind of western stories continue to be published. Think about the stories you like to read. Do you prefer realistic ones, or unrealistic ones? Tell which kind you prefer and some of the stories that fit that preference you really like.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007: President John F. Kennedy was born in 1917. He once said, "Conformity is the jailer of freedom and the enemy of growth." What do you think he meant by that? Do you agree or disagree with him?
Wednesday, May 30, 2007: Candy Lightner was born in 1946. When her twelve-year-old daughter was killed by a drunk driver, she was inspired to found Mothers Against Drunk Drivers (MADD). She works to educate the public about the dangers of driving drunk, and to increase penalties for those who do. Think of a slogan or ad against drunk driving, and write why you feel your slogan or ad would be effective.
Thursday, May 31, 2007: Mary, Mona, Roberta, and Leota Keys became the first quadruplets to graduate from college in 1937, when all of them received degrees from Baylor University. How would you like to be a quadruplet? What are three advantages, and three disadvantages, of having three brothers or sisters your own age?

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

APRIL, 2007

The character trait for April is TRUSTWORTHINESS.

Reliability
Dependability
Being worthy of confidence

Monday, April 2, 2007: In 1796, William Henry Ireland announced he had found and was presenting a lost play by William Shakespeare. The play was very bad, and contained several references to things that happened after Shakespeare had died, proving that Ireland was a forger. Have you ever seen or helped to put on a play or skit? Tell briefly about your experience.
Tuesday, April 3, 2007: Three famous actors were born today: Leslie Howard, who played Ashley Wilkes in Gone with the Wind; and Marlon Brando, who played the Godfather in all three parts of The Godfather; and Doris Day, who acted in movies, on television, and also sang many popular songs. Would you like to be an actor? What are three things about being an actor you would like, and three things you would not like?
Wednesday, April 4, 2007: The first mention of the city of Moscow was made in 1147 in an ancient chronicle of a banquet, so today is considered the birthday of the city. Moscow is the capital and largest city of Russia. Think about capitals of countries all over the world. List 5 capital cities you would like to visit, and tell why you want to visit them.
Thursday, April 5, 2007: African-American educator and leader Booker T. Washington was born in 1856. He once said, "If you want to lift yourself up, lift up someone else." What do you think he meant by that?
Friday, April 6, 2007: In 1784, archeologist begin to excavate the city of Pompeii in Italy, which had been buried during a volcanic eruption seventeen centuries before. Suppose you were an archeologist centuries from now and were digging up your school. Make a list of objects you think might have lasted, and another list of things you don't think will last.

Monday, April 9, 2997: In 1859, Samuel Clemens got his license as a steamboat pilot on the Mississippi River. This was a difficult, highly-skilled job at that time, with the kind of prestige a passenger jet pilot has today. After Samuel Clemens began to write under the name Mark Twain, he often used his experience as a riverboat pilot in his stories. What kind of skills do the jobs you are interested in require? List 3 jobs you think you might like to have, and then list 3 skills each job requires.
Tuesday, April 10, 2007: In 1633, Thomas Johnson of London sells the first bananas ever sold in the city. The people had to be shown how to peel them, and when they were ripe or rotten. Imagine a new kind of fruit: what would it look like? What would it taste like? Would it have a peel, or seeds, or some other inedible part? Describe your fruit in detail?
Wednesday, April 11, 2007: In 1913, Ettore Bugatti begins building the huge, expensive, handmade cars that bear his name. His cars are considered some of the most beautiful ever made, but were so expensive very few were sold. People often buy very expensive objects, even though other, less expensive versions, can do the job just as well. Why do you think they do that? (Teachers: the Bugatti brand has been revived, and a new model is now available for $1,200,000. Only 600 will be made. They are being made by the same company that makes the Volkswagen--an excellent example of the situation this prompt addresses.)
Thursday, April 11, 2007: In 1776, the North Carolina assembly, meeting at Halifax, instructs its delegates to the Continental Congress to vote for independence from Great Britain. N.C. was the first colony to do this, and it was very dangerous, since the delegates at Halifax had no way of knowing that any other colony would go along with them. Imagine that you were a delegate at the Halifax assembly and were voting on this resolution, which might result in your being hanged by the British as a traitor. How do you think you would feel? What reasons might you have for voting for the resolution?
Friday, April 13. 2007: American writer Eudora Welty was born in 1909. She lived almost all of her life in Jackson, Mississippi, where she was born and died. She once said, "A sheltered life can be a daring life as well. For all serious daring starts from within." What do you think she meant by that? Do you agree?

Monday, April, 16, 2007: In 1503, Columbus gave up trying to find China while on his fourth voyage to the New World, although he remained convinced that the land he had found was part of Asia. He made a mistake in thinking he had found a quick route to Asia, but something good came from it. Have you, or someone you know, ever made a mistake that turned out to be a good thing? Tell what mistake you made, and how it turned out to be good.
Tuesday, April 17, 2007: J.P. Morgan was born in 1837. He was a banker and investor, and for many years the richest man in the world. He gave lots of money to various museums, especially those in New York City, including museums of art, of science, and of history. What kind of museum do you like to visit? What exhibits do you most enjoy?
Wednesday, April 18, 2007: April is National Poetry Month. What is your favorite poem? Tell why you like it.
Thursday, April 19, 2007: Ole Evinrude, the inventor of the outboard motor for boats, was born in 2007. If you could travel on any kind of boat, what kind would you like to travel on? Where would you like to go, or what would you like to do?
Friday, April 20, 2007: In 1926, a practical method of adding sound to movies was invented. Before that, all films were silent, and cards were displayed on the screen to show what people said. Think of the very old movies you may have seen, such as the Little Rascals or very old cartoons. What differences did you notice between them and more modern movies?

Monday, April 23, 2007: Happy birthday, William Shakespeare! He was born in 1564. Considered the greatest English writer of all times, his plays have been translated into more than 100 languages and are performed all over the world. Shakespeare is known for both his interesting plots and his fascinating characters. When you see a play, TV show, or movie, which is most interesting to you: the plot (action of the story) or the people in it? What are some stories or characters that really interest you?
Tuesday, April 24, 2007: Actress Shirley MacLaine was born in 1934. She said, "Dwelling on the negative simply contributes to its power." What do you think she meant by that?
Wednesday, April 25, 2008: Heavyweight world champion boxer Rocky Marciano retired undefeated in 1956, the only world boxing champion to ever do so. Boxing is one of the oldest of the martial arts. Do you like watching or participating in one of the martial arts? Tell why you feel as you do.
Thursday, April 26, 2007: The first broadcast weather report was made by radio station WEW in St. Louis, MO, in 1921. Before that, daily or weekly weather reports printed in newspapers were the only ones available. How important is accurate news about the weather for you? What are some ways your activities or plans are affected by weather?
Friday, April 27, 2007: The first computer with a mouse and point-and-click interface was put on the market in 1981 by Xerox. Some people like mice with one button, and some prefer the kind with two buttons. Which kind do you prefer? Why do you like that kind?

Monday, April 30, 2007: In 1897, British scientist Joseph Thompson announces his lab has discovered the electron, one of the particles making up an atom. At that time, everyone thought that atoms were the smallest possible particles and could not be divided into smaller parts, so no one believed him until other scientists duplicated his results. How would you feel if you had discovered something important, but no one would believe you? What would you do to try to convince them?

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

MARCH, 2007

The character trait for March is CITIZENSHIP.

Respect for law
Patriotism
Love of country
Contribution to laws, policies, and human rights
service to others

Thursday, Mar. 1, 2007: March is National Frozen Foods Month. Thanks to frozen food, we can enjoy many foods outside their regular season. What are three foods that you enjoy all year long? List your favorite meals with those foods.
Friday, Mar. 2, 2007: Two famous popular musicians were born today: Karen Carpenter in 1950 and Jon Bon Jovi in 1962. Although their styles of music were very different, there are many people who enjoy songs by both of them. Think of two singers, writers, actors, or other performers you know that are very different, but that you enjoy. Tell three ways they are different, and three ways they are alike.

Monday, Mar. 5, 2007: In 1750, the first Shakespeare play ever performed in America was presented in New York City. If you could act in a play, what part would you like to have? Why that part?
Tuesday, Mar. 6, 2007: Lorin Maazel, violinist and conductor was born in 1930. A brilliant musician, he began conducting orchestras at the age of 8, and has conducted many famous American and foreign orchestras. Being a conductor means that a person must be able to work with many other highly talented musicians. What are some traits a person should have to work successfully with other people? List 4 traits, and tell why they are important.
Wednesday, Mar. 7, 2007: Luther Burbank was born in 1849. He became famous for developing new varieties of flowers, fruits, and vegetables, and for selling seeds by mail all over the country. He combined many vegetables and fruits, creating the tangelo, the plumcot, the white blackberry, and the variety of potato used to make french fries in McDonald's. If you could combine two vegetables or fruits to make a new kind of food, what do you combine? How do you think the combination would taste?
Thursday, Mar. 8, 2007: Joseph Lee was born in 1862. A wealthy philanthropist, he started a movement to build public playgrounds for children in the middle of big cities, so they would have safe places to play. What are three things you think every playground should have? Why those things?
Friday, Mar. 9. 2007: Yuri Gagarin, the first human being to orbit the earth in a spacecraft, the Vostok I, was born in 2007 on a farm near Moscow, in what was then the USSR. Imagine how you would feel if you were in space. Write a paragraph about what you think the experience might be like.

Monday, Mar. 12, 2007: In 1907, wealthy philanthropist Andrew Carnegie gave the City of New York money to build and equip 65 branch public libraries, one of many gifts for libraries he gave over the course of his life. Why do you think a wealthy person would give money to build public libraries? Tell three ways public libraries benefit a community.
Tuesday, Mar. 13. 2007: In 1938, the CBS radio network began its first news program to feature news from outside the United States. List all the places you can get news today, then decide which one you find the most reliable and complete. Defend your choice.
Wednesday, Mar. 14, 2007: In 1918, the first ship ever made of concrete was launched. Concrete is less expensive than metal for ships, but also more brittle. Think of something else usually made of metal that could be made of concrete. What would be the advantages of using concrete? What would be the disadvantages?
Thursday, Mar. 15, 2007: In 1812, a group of Russian set up a settlement on the banks of the Russian River in California. Suppose the state of California had been settled by Russians. How do you think life there would be different from life today? List at least 3 ways.
Friday, Mar. 16, 2007: Henny Youngman, a comic famous for his many corny jokes, was born in 1906. Write down the corniest joke you can remember or invent. Share your corny joke with your classmates.

Monday, Mar. 19, 2007: Electric eels were first described in science publications by Alexander von Humboldt in 1800. Until his experiments, it was not known that animals could use electric current as a defense, and many people at first thought the report a hoax or mistake. Electric eels are very strange animals, but there are many others. What do you think is the strangest animal you have ever heard of or read about? Write a brief description of the animal, stressing its strangeness.
Tuesday, Mar. 20, 2007: Psychologist B.F. Skinner was born in 1904. When asked about the future of computers, he said, "The real problem is not whether machines think but whether men do." What do think he meant by that?
Wednesday, Mar. 21, 2007: In 1942, two American scientists describe element 94, which they named "plutonium," after the newly discovered planet. If you discovered a new element, what would you name it? Describe what a new element might be like, and why you chose the name you did.
Thursday, Mar. 22, 2007: Songwriter and theatrical producer Andrew Lloyd Webber was born in 1948. Some of his hits include the musicals Cats and Phantom of the Opera. Webber has said that he does not believe musical movies and plays should not be too realistic. Do you agree? Why or why not?
Friday, Mar. 23, 2007: G.F. Handel's oratorio Messiah was first performed in London in 1743. One part of it, the "Hallelujah!" chorus was so beautiful and inspiring that the King, who was attending the performance, stood up as a mark of respect. Ever since then, audiences have stood during this part of this work. What is the most beautiful piece of music you have heard? Describe how that music makes you feel, and why you like it.

Monday, Mar. 26, 2007: Author Erica Jong was born in 1942. She once wrote, "Advice is what we ask for when we already know the answer but wish we didn't." What do you think she meant by that? Do you think it is true? Why do you think as you do?
Tuesday, Mar. 27, 2007: In 1841, firefighters in New York City tested a new, steam-powered fire engine that could shoot water farther than any hand-powered engine then available. Unfortunately, sparks from the engine started new fires, so the engine was not accepted for use. Being a firefighter is hard work, but very important for the safety of every community. Make a list of 5 qualities a good firefighter must have.
Wednesday, Mar. 28, 2007: The first Spanish settlement in San Francisco Bay was begun in 1776 by Juan Bautista de Anza. Suppose you were selecting people to set up a new colony in a far-away place. What skills do you think such colonists should have. List 10 skills, then decide whether each skill is necessary for every colonist, or is only needed by a few of them.
Thursday, Mar. 29, 2007: British Prime Minister John Major was born in 1943. He has said, "The politician who never made a mistake never made a decision." What do you think he meant by that? Do you think that it is true for people who are not politicians?
Friday, Mar. 30, 2007: In 1867, Secretary of State William Seward signed the treaty with Russia that sold Alaska to the United States for 7 million dollars, or 2 cents an acre. If you were going to take a tour of Alaska, what are 7 things you would want to see? (If you are an Alaskan, what 7 things would you want to see if you were to take a tour of the Lower 48 states.

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

February, 2007

The character trait for February is COOPERATION.

Respect for diversity
Teamwork within home, school, and community

Thursday, Feb. 1, 2007: Sir Edward Coke was born in 1552. He wrote down and organized English common law, which is also the basis of American law. He once said, “Success in crime always invites to worse deeds.” What do you think he meant by that?
Friday, Feb. 2, 2007: George S. Halas, the founder of the Chicago Bears football team, was born in 1895. He was the co-founder of the NFL. This Sunday is the Super Bowl, when the championship of the NFL is decided. What are you or others you know doing during the game? What kind of things do people you know do to root for their favorite team?

Monday, Feb. 5, 2007: Adlai Stevenson was born in 1900. He ran for President twice and served in many important positions. He once said, "All progress has resulted from people who took unpopular positions." Can you think of anything that was unpopular once, but is accepted by almost everyone today? What do you think caused the change?
Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2007: In 2000, Idaho potato farmers faces a huge surplus of unsold potatoes. Rather than have them ground up and burned, they gave 24 million pounds of potatoes to food banks all over the United States. What are some things students might do to help hungry people in their community, or elsewhere?
Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2007: Laura Ingalls Wilder, author of the Little House books, was born in 1867. The stories she told were based on her own life. By the time she reached middle age, the life she had lived as a child seemed strange and unusual to most people younger that she was. What are three things you experience today that you think your children may not experience, and think of as strange?
Thursday, Feb. 8, 2007: In 1693, King William and Queen Mary of Britain gave a charter for a new college in the colony of Virginia. The Virginians named it the College of William and Mary, and it is the second oldest college in the United States. William and Mary is an unusual name for a college. Make a list of other things you have heard about or seen that have unusual names.
Friday, Feb. 9, 2006: In 1797, a group of English sailors were shipwrecked on the coast of Australia, becoming the first Europeans to live there. Suppose you and your classmates were shipwrecked on a new land and had to survive? How would you organize yourself to do the work you need to do?

Monday, Feb. 12, 2007: In 1637, Jan Swammerdam was born in Holland. He discovered the existence of red blood cells. This was one of the most important discoveries that led to the development of blood transfusions, which has saved many lives. Think of some other discoveries that have made our lives healthier. List 3 of them and tell why they are important.
Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2007: In 2000, the last original Peanuts cartoon strip was printed, the day after the artist who invented it, Charles Schulz, died of cancer. Peanuts tells about the life of young people from their own viewpoint. Which Peanuts character is your favorite? Why do you like that one?
Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2007: Charles Dickens attended a large party in his honor during a visit to New York City. Despite his popularity, his experiences in America gave him a very bad impression of our country, and in several of his novels, America is portrayed as a very rough and savage place, with many unfriendly people. If you could, what things could you say to Charles Dickens to show him the friendly, pleasant side of America?
Thursday, Feb. 15, 2007: Harold Arlen was born in 1905. He wrote many songs, including the music for the movie The Wizard of Oz. In that movie, three main characters search for brains, a heart (so he can feel emotions), and courage. Of those three things, which do you think is the most important? Give a reason for your opinion.
Friday, Feb. 16, 2007: In 1852, the Studebaker brothers open a shop making covered wagons. Later, their company made cars, but it went out of business because of the odd design of its cars. What are some things you have seen for sale that look strange to you? Describe the oddest or funniest thing you have ever seen on sale.

Monday, Feb. 19, 2007: In 1855, the first weather maps were prepared for the French Academy of Sciences, based on reports from all over France sent by telegraph to Paris. This is an important first step in developing dependable weather forecasting. How often do you check the weather report? What are some things you do that depend on the weather?
Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2007: Fashion designer Gloria Vanderbilt was born in 1924. She once said, of Black photographer Gordon Parks, "He had the greatest gift of all: the ability to love without fear." Why do you think that she might have thought at love without fear was the greatest gift? Do you agree?
Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2007: In 1925, the New Yorker magazine began publication. Despite its title, the magazine had stories about many aspects of American life, although New York was always its focus. If you were going to start a magazine, what would you want it to be about? Why that topic?
Thursday, Feb. 22, 2007: In ancient times, Romans would have family reunions on this day. What are some things your family does to have fun or celebrate?
Friday, Feb. 23, 2007: American inventor Charles Martin Hall invented a cheap and efficient method to refine aluminum from ore in 1886. Before this, aluminum was more valuable than gold, but now it is used for many things that require a light, strong, inexpensive metal. Make a list of 7 things aluminum is used for, then decide which one is more important. Explain the reason for your decision

Monday, Feb. 26, 2007: Today is the birthday of Grand Canyon National Park, which was established in 1919. What would be a good way to celebrate the birthday of this park, or of some other national park? Describe a birthday celebration you think would be appropriate.
Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2007: Marian Anderson, African-American opera singer, was born in 1902. She was the first African-American to sing in a leading role at an opera in Carnegie Hall. Many people like opera, some like musical movies or videos, but others don't, and prefer their music without video or acting. How do you feel about this? Give reasons for your answer.
Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2007: Today, the Finns celebrate their national epic, the Kalevala, which tells in poetic form the legends of prehistoric Finland. If this was to be a day to celebrate a poem or story you particularly like, what poem or story would you choose to celebrate? Why do you like that poem or story so much?

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

January, 2007

The character trait for January is INTEGRITY.

Inner strength
truthfulness
trustworthyness
honesty
honor and justice

Monday, Jan, 1, 2007: In 45 B.C., the Romans began celebrating New Years on January first. Before that, they celebrated New Years on March 21, which their mythology said was the date of the creation of the world. The dates of holidays are seldom moved. If you could move the date of a holiday, which one would you move? To what date would you move it? Why would you move it?
Tuesday, Jan. 2, 2007: Author Isaac Asimov was born in 1920. He wrote more than 500 books, including science, science fiction, mystery, and humor. He could write very fast, but many other authors are much slower. Do you have a favorite author whose next book you are waiting for? Who is the author? Why do you like him or her?
Wednesday, Jan. 3, 2007: Josiah Wedgwood, English potter and industrialist, died in 1795. He developed many new techniques that made china and other pottery stronger, prettier, and cheaper. He popularized the custom of decorating china with designs in sets that all had the same pattern. Suppose you were designing a set of pottery for the month of January. Describe some designs you think would be appropriate.
Thursday, Jan. 4, 2007: Isaac Newton was born in 1642. Among his many scientific discoveries and theories, he was the first person to suggest that an artificial satellites could be created. His discoveries in the field of optics lead the the modern techniques of making glasses, binoculars, and contact lenses. How would our life be different if glasses, binoculars, and contact lenses had never been invented? Name 4 ways.
Friday, Jan. 5, 2007: President Harry Truman was sworn in after his election in 1949. He once said, "It's amazing what you can accomplish if you do not care who gets the credit." What do you think he meant by that?

Monday, Jan. 8, 2007: In 1790, new President George Washington delivered the first State of the Union address to Congress. Washington once said, "It is far better to be alone than to be in bad company." What do you think he meant by that? Why do you think he believed it to be true?
Tuesday, Jan. 9, 2007: In 1493, Christopher Columbus's crew caught a manatee. Columbus thought they were the origin of the stories of mermaids, and said they were not nearly as beautiful as people thought they were. Think of some of the mythological creatures you have heard or read about. If one of them were real, which one would you prefer to see? Why that one?
Wednesday, Jan.10, 2007: Ray Bolger, the actor who played the part of the Scarecrow in The Wizard of Oz, was born in 1904. The Scarecrow wanted brains, the Lion wanted courage, and the Tin Woodsman wanted a heart. Which of these three do you think is the most important for having a happy life: to be smart, to be courageous, or to be loving? Tell why you think so.
Thursday, Jan. 11, 2007: Pineapples were planted in Hawaii for the first time. Pineapples have a unique taste; some people love them, but others hate them. How do you feel about pineapples?
Friday, Jan. 12, 2007: British politician Edmund Burke, who sided with the Americans during the Revolutionary War, was born in 1729. He once wrote, "All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." What do you think he meant by that?

Monday, Jan. 15, 2007: Tim Berners-Lee, inventor of the World Wild Web, release the first web browser in 1992. In a very few years, the Web became popular. What website do you think is the most useful for students? Why do you think so?
Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2007: Ethel Merman, famous theater and movie star, was born in 1907, so this would have been her 100th birthday. She once said, "You'll never prove you're too good for a job by not doing your best." What do you think she meant by that?
Wednesday, Jan 17, 2007: Comic actor Jim Carey, who became famous for his role in Ace Ventura, Pet Detective, was born in 1962. Which comic actor or actress is your favorite? Describe some funny scene that person played.
Thursday, Jan. 18, 2007: French writer and philosopher Charles de Montesquieu was born in 1698. He once said, "The less men think, the more they talk." Do you agree with him? Why or why not?
Friday, Jan. 19, 2007: In 1903, President Theodore Roosevelt and King Edward VII of Great Britain sent greetings to each other over the first telegraph line under the Atlantic Ocean. It was the first time people could send messages across the ocean in less than several days. If you were asked to write a first message to be sent over a new means of communication, what message would you send?

Monday, Jan. 22, 2007: Joy Adamson, the author of Born Free, was born in 1910. She advocated restoring zoo animals to their natural habitat, and worked out ways to teach them how to live in the wild. If you could study one wild animal in its natural habitat, which one would you choose? Why that one?
Tuesday, Jan. 23, 2007: Charles Curtis became the first Senator of Native American ancestry to become a U.S. Senator in 1907. He later became Vice President for President Hoover. Senators help to write laws for the United States. If you were able to write a law for your nation or state, what law would you write? What problem would your law solve?
Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2007: The Eskimo Pie, ice cream covered with chocolate, was patented by Christian Nelson in 1922. Describe a new dessert or treat you would like. It may contain ice cream or not, depending on your preferences.
Thursday, Jan. 25, 2007: The first winter Olympic Games open in Chamonix, France, in 1924. It began the process of popularizing winter sports for ordinary people; prior to then, only very rich people (or those who lived in the mountains) skied. Do you like or participate in a winter sport, or would you like to learn one? Which one? Why that one? (If you are not interested in winter sports, tell why you feel as you do.)
Friday, Jan. 26, 2007: Julia Dent Grant, wife of President U.S. Grant, was born in 1826. Mrs. Grant was a very plain woman, but was known for her kindness. Think of a person who has done something kind for you, or for someone you know. Write about how their kindness benefited you or someone else.

Monday, Jan. 29, 2007: Oprah Winfrey was born in 1954. Although born poor, she has created a media company that has made her very wealthy. She has used some of her money to help young people get an education, and for many other good causes. If you could donate money for a good cause, what would you donate for? Why do you prefer that cause?
Tuesday, Jan. 30, 2007: President Franklin Roosevelt was born in 1882. He once said, "Happiness lies in the joy of achievement and the thrill of creative effort." What do you think he meant by that?
Wednesday, Jan. 31, 2007: Ernie Banks, Hall of Fame baseball player for the Chicago Cubs, was born in 1931. He once said, "Awards mean a lot, but they don't say it all. The people ...mean more to me than statistics." Do you agree with him? Why or why not?

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

DECEMBER, 2006

The character trait for December is RESPONSIBILITY.

Dependability
Accountability

Friday, Dec. 1, 2006: In 1990, the two ends of of a tunnel connecting Great Britain and France were connected. The diggers had started at each end and met in the middle, 132 feet below the bottom of the English Channel. It took a lot of careful planning to meet like that. Have you ever done something that needed a lot of planning? What did you plan? How well did your plans work out?

Monday, Dec. 4, 2006: Thomas Carlyle, Scottish historian and essayist, was born in 1795. He once wrote, "Not what I have, but what I do is my kingdom." What do you think he meant by this?
Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2006: In 1945, 5 navy planes disappeared in the region called the Bermuda Triangle. It consists of the ocean between Bermuda, Key West in Florida, and Cape Hatteras in North Carolina. Some people believe that strange and unknown things happen in the Triangle. Others say the strange things are caused by natural forces, like storms. How would you investigate the Bermuda Triangle? Name three things you would try to find out.
Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2006: The microwave oven was invented in 1945 by British scientist Percy Spencer. Microwave ovens are very fast and useful, but were originally very expensive. Now they are much cheaper. This has happened for many inventions. What expensive inventions that are now new do you expect will become cheaper in time? List 3, and predict how cheap they will become.
Thursday, Dec. 7, 2006: The last Model A Ford was produced in 1931. The Model A (and Model T before it) had been produced with minor changes for many years. After 1931, Ford changed its models every year. Some people like having new models every year. Others think it is very wasteful. How do you feel about it? Give a reason for your preference.
Friday, Dec. 8, 2006: Writer James Thurber was born in 1894. His most famous comic story is "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty," about a man who imagines himself in various adventures as he goes about his daily life. Have you ever imagined being in an adventure? What kind of adventures would you like to have?

Monday, Dec. 11, 2006: The world's first, and so far only, supersonic passenger plane was unveiled in 1967. The first Concorde was built in Toulouse, France. Although very fast, it was very noisy (outside) and very expensive to fly, so it never became a commercial success. Can you think of any other inventions that seemed wonderful when they first came out but later failed? What are some reasons some products fail, but others succeed?
Tuesday, Dec. 12, 2006: In 1901, Guglielmo Marconi succeeded in broadcasting the first radio signal across the Atlantic Ocean. Marconi was a great genius and worked very hard, but was also bad tempered and hard to work with. Learning to control your temper is very important. What are some things people can do to keep from losing their tempers at others?
Wednesday, Dec. 13: Mary Todd Lincoln, the wife of President Lincoln, was born in 2006. During the Civil War, she often visited hospitals and wrote letters for injured soldiers. Over the years, many letters written by her have been discovered. Suppose you found a letter written by Mary Lincoln. What would you do with it?
Thursday, Dec. 14, 2006: Margaret Chase Smith, the first woman to be elected both to the U.S. House of Representative and the U.S. Senate, was born in 1897. She once said, "When people keep telling you that you can't do a thing, you kind of like to try it." Have you ever tried to do something people told you that you couldn't do? How successful were you? What did you learn from your experience?
Friday, Dec. 15, 2006: In 1941, jazz and blues singer Lena Horne released her first hit song, "Stormy Weather." She had a long and very successful career, and worked hard to create new opportunities for black and women singers. Many of her songs were very sexy, but she once said, "I just sing those songs, I don't live them." What do you think she meant by that?

Monday, Dec. 18, 2006: Hector Hugh Munro, who wrote amusing stories under the pen name Saki and was born in 1870, once wrote, "In baiting a mousetrap with cheese, always leave room for the mouse." What do you think he meant by that?
Tuesday, Dec. 19, 2006: Ben Franklin began publishing Poor Richard's Almanac in 1732. It contained information about the stars, moon, and sun, as do all almanacs, but also contained many proverbs and wise sayings. What is your favorite proverb or wise saying? Why do you like that one? Share it with your friends.
Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2006: In 1616, settlers set out from London to establish what later became the colony at Jamestown, VA. Most of the settlers never expected to return to England again. If you were going to move to a far-away place and never return, what would you say to your friends that you were leaving behind?
Thursday, Dec. 21, 2006: Benjamin Disraeli, British prime minister, was born in 1804. He became a popular novelist, then entered politics and rose to become one of the most powerful prime ministers of Great Britain. He once said, "Justice is truth in action." What do you think he meant by that?
Friday, Dec. 22, 2006: In 1885, La Marcus Thompson patented the first roller coaster, which he built in Coney Island, NY. Some people love roller coasters, others prefer other rides. Which amusement park ride is your favorite? Why do you like that one?

Have a wonderful holiday season!

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

NOVEMBER, 2006

The character trait for November is CARING.

Kindness
Consideration
Compassion
Treating others as you would wish to be treated

Wednesday, Nov. 1, 2006: Nicholas II, last czar of Russia, was born in 1894. He was not very smart, and did not work at ruling very hard. Russia suffered many disasters, leading eventually to a revolution that led to his overthrow and death. Which do you think is more important to being a success in what you do: working hard, or being smart? What combination of the two is best?
Thursday, Nov. 2, 2006: Rose Elizabeth Bird was born in 1936. She was the first woman to be Chief Justice of the California Supreme Court. She once said, "It is easy to be popular. It is not easy to be just." What do you think she meant by that?
Friday, Nov. 3, 2006: In 1900, the first American car show was held in New York City. The earliest cars were simple but rather uncomfortable, loud, and unreliable. Since then, many improvements have been made. What are three things currently not available in most cars that you think would make it more comfortable and fun to ride in them?

Monday, Nov. 6, 2006: Cesare Lombroso was born in 1836. He studied crime and criminals, and was convinced becoming a criminal was hereditary. Others say it is a result of what happens to a person in his life, not his ancestors. What is your opinion? Give reasons for your answer.
Tuesday, Nov. 7, 2006: Two famous singers were born on this day: opera star Joan Sutherland in 1926 and folk singer Joni Mitchell in 1943. How do you think the life of an opera singer would be different from the life of a folk singer? List three ways you think their lives would be different.
Wednesday, Nov. 8, 2006: In 1960, John F. Kennedy became the youngest man ever elected President. He once said, "The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining." What do you think he meant by that?
Thursday, Nov. 9, 2006: In 1862, President Lincoln appointed Gen. Ambrose Burnside as commander of the Union's largest army in the Civil War. Although Burnside had been a successful general with smaller units, he was doubtful that he could command such a huge army, and asked Lincoln not to appoint him. Lincoln persuaded him to try the job anyway. If you think a person would be good in a job, but that person is reluctant to try it, should you try to persuade them? Why or why not? (Teachers: Burnside was right: he led the army to one of its worst defeats in the war at Fredricksburg, VA. After the students have finished their writing, give them this information and ask them if they would change their opinions.)
Friday, Nov. 10, 2006: Carmaker Gottlieb Daimler (Co-founder of the car manufacturer Daimler-Chrysler) displayed his new invention, the motorcycle, in 1885. He intended it as a testing device for small engines for cars, but it soon became popular as a vehicle. Many motorcycle, scooter, and bicycle riders are injured by cars whose drivers pay no attention to them. What are three things that could be done to make motorcyclists, bicyclists, and scooter riders more visible or noticeable?

Monday, Nov. 13, 2006: In 1789, President George Washington finished his first tour of 8 northern states of the new nation. Later, he made a similar tour of 4 southern states. US highways 13 and 17 follow the approximate route of his tours. If you could make a tour of the United States, but could only visit 8 states, which states would you visit? What would you want to see in those states?
Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2006: Moby-Dick, Herman Melville's dramatic story of the hunt for a huge white whale was first published in 1851. Its strange story did not sell well at first. Many famous stories and novels feature an animal in a central role. What is your favorite story featuring an animal as an important character? Why do you like that story?
Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2006: Bill Melendez, the filmmaker who animated many of the Bugs Bunny films and directed the original Peanuts film, was born in 1916. In the Peanuts films, Charlie Brown seems to have bad luck all the time, and becomes very discouraged. Have you ever felt discouraged? What might you do to make yourself feel better?
Thursday, Nov. 16, 2006: Sugeru Miyamoto, Japanese designer of games for the Nintendo electronic games system, was born in 1952. Which electronic game system do you prefer? Why do you like that one best? If you don't like electronic games, tell why you don't like them.
Friday, Nov. 17, 2006: Queen Elizabeth I became ruler of England in 1558. She ruled until 1603. Her enjoyment of Shakespeare's plays helped to boost his popularity and made him rich. Although television and movies have wider audiences, many people still enjoy attending plays by live actors. What are three things about a live play that would be different from watching the same drama as a movie or on television?

Monday, Nov. 20, 2006: In 1906, two carmakers, Charles Rolls and Frederick Royce merge their companies to form Rolls-Royce, perhaps the most famous luxury carmaker of all. A 2006 Rolls-Royce costs more than $328,000, more than most people's home. Each car is built to the individual specifications of the buyer. If you were buying such a car, what are some things you would order for it? Or if you had the money to buy such a car, what would you do with it instead?
Tuesday, Nov. 21, 2006: Multi-millionaire stock trader Michael Milken was sentenced to prison for cheating in his business. Although honest trading had made him extremely rich, he still broke the law, even though he never spent most of the money he had already earned. Why do you think a rich, successful person like Michael Milken would break the law? Explain your answer.
Wednesday, Nov. 22, 2006: The first snowmobile was patented by Carl Eliason in 1927. Snowmobiles and personal watercraft (jet skis) are very popular, but also loud and dangerous. Some people think that only people who have drivers licenses for cars should be allowed to drive them. Others think that there should be special snowmobile or jet ski licenses, and others think there should not be any license at all. How do you feel about licenses for snowmobiles and jet skis? Defend your opinion.
Thursday, Nov. 23, 2006: In 1889, the first jukebox was installed in San Francisco, CA., by Louis Glass and William Arnold. Jukeboxes are still popular in many restaurants and cafes, and some people even buy them for their homes. Make a list of ten songs you would like to have on a jukebox if you had one of your own.
Friday, Nov. 24, 2006: Dutch philosopher and author Benedict Spinoza was born in 1632. He once wrote, "If you want to be different from the past, study the past." What do you think he meant by that?

Monday, Nov. 27, 2006: The first Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade was held in 1924. It started out as a way to advertise a sale at Macy's Department Store, but has become an annual event marking the beginning of the Christmas season. A feature of the parade are huge balloons in the shape of cartoon characters. What cartoon character from the last two years do you think deserves to have a balloon in the parade? Why that character?
Tuesday, Nov. 28, 2006: In 1922, British aviator Cyril Turner gave the first demonstration of skywriting over New York City. If you could have a message written in the sky (by artificial smoke released from an airplane), what would you say? Remember, a skywriting message must be very short because the wind usually blows it away. Keep your message to 6 words or less. Then tell why you selected that message.
Wednesday, Nov. 29, 2006: Madeleine L'Engle, author of A Wrinkle in Time, was born in 1918. Many of her books tell of the Murry family. Everyone in that family has some unusual trait. What unusual trait do you or some member of your family have?
Thursday, Nov. 30, 2006: In 1609, Galileo looks at the moon through the telescope he invented. He made the first map of the moon, and named many of its features. He thought the dark areas were seas ("mare" [MAH-ray] in Italian), and gave them sea names, like Sea of Tranquility and Ocean of Storms. These areas are not seas, but vast plains of lava. Some people think these features should be renamed in a more accurate way, while others think we should keep the old names Galileo gave. Which group do you agree with? What reasons do you have for your opinion?

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

OCTOBER, 2006

The character trait for October is Self-Discipline.

Positive self-control of one's words, actions, impulses, and desires
Perseverance

Monday, Oct. 2, 2006: Mohandas Gandhi, who led the people of India in their struggle for independence, was born in 1869. He was given the title "Mahatma," which means "Great Soul." He once said, "Truth never damages a cause that is just." What do you think he meant by that?
Tuesday, Oct. 3, 2006: In 1932, The Times, a London newspaper, began using a new type font called Times New Roman. The new font was so outstandingly legible that it quickly became the most popular font for most books, magazines, newspapers, and web sites. Most word processing programs on computers use Times New Roman as their default, or usual, font. Many other fonts, however, are still in use. Describe a font (a style of lettering) that you find especially interesting or legible.
Wednesday, Oct. 4, 2006: Autumn is here, and in many places, the trees are beginning to change their colors. Botanists tell us that the bright colors we see are always there, but hidden by the green of the leaves in spring and summer. What kind of tree do you think the most beautiful, useful, or interesting? Why do you think so?
Thursday, Oct. 5, 2006: In 1926, Edwin Hubble, the famous American astronomer, discovered the first Cepheid variable, a kind of star that changes its brightness in a regular pattern. How do you think our life would be different if the sun regularly become dim and bright for several weeks at a time?
Friday, Oct. 6. 2006: The American Library Association was founded in 1876 to work for more and better libraries. Make a list of the things you like to do when you visit the library. Share your list with your classmates and your librarian.

Monday, Oct. 9, 2006: Bruce Catton was born in 1899. He was a famous historian of the Civil War, writing both scholarly books and popular histories about it. Many movies and television programs about the Civil War rely on information from his books. Many people have favorite times in history they like to read or learn about. If you could read about any time or place in history, which one would you choose? Why do you find that time or place so interesting?
Tuesday, Oct. 10, 2006: Italian composer Giuseppe Verdi was born in 1813. He was famous for his operas, many of which were based on Shakespeare's plays. Verdi took popular stories and plays and put them to music. Some people have suggested that The Lord of the Rings or the Harry Potter stories could be made into operas or musical plays. Would you go to see a musical play or film based on either of these stories? Can you think of some other stories that might be made into operas?
Wednesday, Oct. 11, 2006: Eleanor Roosevelt was born in 1884. She was the niece of President Theodore Roosevelt, and married to President Franklin Roosevelt. Although previous First Ladies had been quietly helpful to their husband's political career, Mrs. Roosevelt was the first to work openly for her husband's election. While he was president, she visited many places on his behalf, since he was confined to a wheelchair most of the time. After FDR's death, she worked to establish the United Nations and to promote human rights. For many years, she was annually voted the most admired woman in the world. What woman do you admire most in the world? Why do you admire her?
Thursday, Oct. 12, 2006: Jean Nidetch was born in 1923. As a girl and a young woman, she battled constantly against overweight. She realized that she was most successful when she and other overweight friends worked together to encourage each other, and founded Weight Watchers. Many other problems people have can be solved more easily when they work in groups than when they work alone. Make a list of things people do better in groups. List at least five.
Friday, Oct. 13, 2006: In 1923, the nation of Turkey moved its capital from Istanbul, its largest city, to Ankara, which was located in the center of the country and therefore was more accessible to most of the Turkish people. Some people say that Washington, D.C., is located too far to the east for most of America, and our nation's capital should be moved to a more central city. Do you agree with this idea? Why or why not?

Monday, Oct. 16, 2006: In 1710, the British captured the French colony of Fort Royal in what is now Nova Scotia. Several thousand French settlers were expelled and made their way to Louisiana, where they established the beginning of what is now called the Cajun culture. So what started out as a very bad thing became a good thing after a long time. Have you ever had something that started out bad for you or your friends, but came out good in the end? What was it? How did it turn out good?
Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2006: This is National Macaroni Week. Macaroni is popular because people like its taste and it is easy to make. Suppose you were planning a macaroni dinner with your friends. What else would you serve with the macaroni? Why those particular dishes?
Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2006: In 1858, future President Abraham Lincoln wrote a letter in which he said, "I believe the declaration that 'all men are created equal' is the great fundamental principle upon which our free institutions rest." Do you agree with him? Explain why you think as you do.
Thursday, Oct. 19, 2006: In 1781, the British army commanded by General Lord Cornwallis surrendered to General George Washington at Yorktown, VA. After this victory, organized fighting between the British and the Americans came to an end. Imagine that you could go back and live for a week in those times. What are four things you think you would miss that people in those days didn't have? Why those things?
Friday, Oct. 20, 2006: In 1883, the first vocational school in the United States was opened in Baltimore, MD. A vocational school specializes in training students for specific jobs. If you were to choose a job you might like to be trained for, what would it be? What are three things you would have to learn to do that job?

Monday, Oct. 23, 2006: Juan Rodriguez, known as "Chi-chi," was born in 1936. He was the first Puerto Rican to become a major player in professional golf, inspiring many young Puerto Ricans to take up golf. Have you ever become interested in a sport or activity because of a person from your town or community? How did that person influence you?
Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2006: In 1851, British astronomer William Lassell discovered two moons of the planet Uranus, and named them Umbriel and Ariel. These were the first two objects in the solar system that were not given names from Greek or Roman mythology (the names came from English literature). With the power of new telescopes constantly increasing, more and more objects that are part of the Solar System are being discovered and Roman and Greek mythological names are running out. Suggest 4 names for solar system objects that you think would be good to use. Tell where you got the names, and why they would make good names for heavenly bodies.
Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2006: In 1956, the government of Germany finally declared that Adolf Hitler was dead, although it had long been known that he committed suicide in 1945. Why do you think the German government waited so long for its declaration?
Thursday, Oct. 26, 2006: Gospel singer Mahalia Jackson was born in 1911. She helped to make gospel music a recognized and popular musical genre. She once said, "It's easy to be independent when you've got money. But to be independent when you haven't got a thing--that's the Lord's test." What do you think she meant by that?
Friday, Oct. 27, 2006: In 1873, farmer Joseph Glidden got a patent for a new form of barbed wire that was both effective in keeping cattle from trampling fences and cheap to make. As a result of his invention, large areas of the west, once open to cattle grazing, were fenced off to become farms. This is an example of a small invention that causes a great change. Has a small thing ever had a large effect on your life? What was it? How did it effect you.

Monday, Oct. 30, 2006: Charles Atlas (birth name Angelo Siciliano) was born in 1893. Small and weak as a young man, he developed a way to exercise and build his muscles using springs and levers instead of large, heavy weights and by using isometrics. He won many body-building contests and became known as "the world's most perfectly developed man." He is an example of a person who turned a weakness into a strength through hard work, determination, and careful planning. Think of a goal you would like to reach. What plan can you make that will help you reach it?
Tuesday, Oct. 31, 2006: Japanese Prince Mutsuhito is crowned as the Emperor Meiji in 1868. As emperor, he encouraged the modernization of Japan, with special emphasis on schools and education. As a result of his rule, Japan became the first eastern Asian nation to have a system of universal education. List three or more reasons a country with good schools will probably be more prosperous than a country with poor ones.

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

September, 2006

The character trait for September is RESPECT.

Self-respect
Respect for others and their ideas
High regard for other people, property, self, and country
Value of people as human beings

Friday, Sept. 1, 2006: Walter Reuther, who served as president of the United Auto Workers for many years, was born in 1907. He once said, "If you're not big enough to lose, you're not big enough to win." What do you think he meant by that?

Monday, Sept. 4, 2006: George Eastman patented the first Kodak camera in 1888. It was the first camera to use flexible film instead of heavy, fragile glass plates. Cameras became light, simple, and cheap enough for ordinary people to use. If you were assigned to make pictures of a place you thought was interesting and beautiful, where would you take them? Why that place?
Tuesday, Sept. 5, 2006: The first Labor Day holiday was celebrated in New York City in 2006. It was the first holiday designed to give people a long weekend, by always being celebrated on Monday. Since then, many other celebrations have been moved to Mondays or Fridays, such as Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Some people think Christmas should be moved to Monday or Friday. What is your opinion of moving the date of Christmas? Give reasons for your opinion.
Wednesday, Sept. 6, 2006: In 1943, Carl Scheib, at age 16, became the youngest player ever to play in a American League baseball game, pitching for the Philadelphia Athletics. He was selected to pitch because most of the older pitchers were in the armed forces, fighting in World War II. Imagine that you were going to play on a major sports team at your present age. How would you feel? How would you prepare?
Thursday, Sept. 7, 2006: The cartoon symbol of the United States, Uncle Sam, first appeared in 1813. A very tall, thin man with a small beard wearing red, white, and blue clothes, Uncle Sam is still used to stand for the United States in cartoons and posters. Some people think he isn't a very good symbol, since he doesn't look or dress like most Americans today. If you were designing a poster or cartoon about the United States, what kind of person would you use as a symbol? How would they be dressed?
Friday, Sept. 8, 2006: Antonin Dvorak (pronounced duh-VOR-zhak) was born in 1841. He was a famous composer of classical music who visited the United States and was inspired by American folk music and the magnificent scenery, and wrote the famous symphony From the New World, the first major piece of classical music written and inspired by America. Have you ever heard a piece of music that made you think of a particular place or person? What piece of music, and what did it remind you of?

Monday, Sept. 18, 2006: Swedish actress Ingrid Bergman was born in 1905. She once said, "Life would be so wonderful if we only knew what to do with it." What do you think she meant by that?

Tuesday, Sept. 19, 2006: In 1778, the Continental Congress received the first budget for the new United States. A budget is a way to make sure that you use your money wisely. To budget, you must set priorities, which means you must put the things you want in order, to decide which one you want to buy first. List three things you would like to buy if your could, then decide in what order you would like to buy them. Explain why you put your goals in the order you chose.

Wednesday, Sept. 20, 2006: In 1853, Elisha Otis sold the first modern elevator, with a safety brake that prevented the elevator from falling if the cable that held it was broken. If you were in charge of planning a celebration of Elevator Day, to remind people of the importance of elevators and escalators, what would you do to celebrate?
Thursday, Sept. 21, 2006: In 1792, the government of France abolished the monarchy, setting up the First French Republic. Today most nations do not have kings, emperors, or other hereditary rulers, but some still do. What are the advantages and disadvantages of having a leader who gets his or her job by inheriting it, rather than by voting. List two advantages, and two disadvantages.
Friday, Sept. 22, 2006: In 1927, the African nation of Sierra Leone abolished slavery. Why do you think they took so long to do so?

Monday, Sept. 25, 2006: Sandra Day O'Connor was sworn in as the first woman to serve as a Justice of the United States Supreme Court in 1981. Being a judge or justice of the Supreme Court is a hard job. What are four qualities you think a good judge would need. Tell why you think each of them is important.
Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2006: George Gershwin was born in 1898. He was a songwriter and composer. He wrote the first opera to use only jazz music rather than classical music. It is a famous opera named Porgy and Bess, and is still performed today. Although several attempts have been made to make an opera with rock-and-roll music, none of them have been very popular. Why do you think rock-and-roll operas have not been successful?
Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2006: General Douglas MacArthur, leader of American armed forces in World War II and the Korean War, once said, "There is no security on this earth; there is only opportunity." What do you think he meant by that?
Thursday, Sept. 28, 2006: The two-day Battle of Salamis began in 480 BC. The Greek navy defeated the Persian navy, forcing the Persians to retreat from Greece because their supply lines were cut. It was the first great naval battle of history. If you had to work on a ship, would you prefer a passenger ship, a cargo ship, a fishing boat, or a warship? Give reasons for your answer.
Friday, Sept. 28, 2006: In 1938, the government of Great Britain announced plans to evacuate children from London in the event of war. It was this plan that leads to the fictional adventures of Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy in The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. How would you feel if, for your safety, you were forced to leave your home for a while and live with strangers? Write a paragraph about how you would feel.

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

August, 2006

The character trait for August is HOPE:

Determination to work for the best
Refusal to give in to despair
Willingness to look for the best in people and situations

Tuesday, Aug. 1, 2006: In 1715, theater owner Thomas Doggett sponsored a boat race on the River Thames in London to celebrate the crowning of King George I. It has been held every year since, and may be the longest-running annual sporting event in the world. If you were going to start an annual contest or sporting event, what kind of event would you like to start? What are four rules you would make for your event?
Wednesday, Aug. 2, 2006: Frederic Bartholdi, the French sculptor who designed the Statue of Liberty, was born in 1834. The statue was a gift from the people of France to the people of the United States as a 100th birthday present. If the American people wanted to give a present to the people of another nation, what do you think we should give them? Make a list of five gifts and why they would be appreciate.
Thursday, Aug. 3, 2006: The first ship passed through the Panama Canal in 1914. It had not been finished at the time, so regular ships didn't start using it until much later. Have you ever visited something that had not been finished, such as a house or store display? Describe how it differed from the finished thing.
Friday, Aug. 4, 2006: Poet Percy Bysshe Shelley was born in 1792. He wrote the following poem:

Ozymandias

               I met a traveller from an antique land,

Who said -- "two vast and trunkless legs of stone

Stand in the desert ... near them, on the sand,

Half sunk a shattered visage lies, whose frown,

              And wrinkled lips, and sneer of cold command,

              Tell that its sculptor well those passions read

Which yet survive, stamped on these lifeless things,

The hand that mocked them, and the heart that fed;

              And on the pedestal these words appear:

              My name is Ozymandias, King of Kings,

    Look on my Works ye Mighty, and despair!

              Nothing beside remains. Round the decay

    Of that colossal Wreck, boundless and bare

    The lone and level sands stretch far away." --

What do you think Shelley was trying to say about fame in this poem?

Monday, Aug. 7, 2006: In 1782, General George Washington created the Purple Heart, an award to be given for bravery. It is now given to any American military person who is wounded in battle, and is the oldest medal still being awarded. Propose a medal for something that you think deserves being recognized. What would your medal be for? Who would be eligible to win it?
Tuesday, Aug. 8, 2006: In 1576, Tycho Brahe began building the first European astronomical observatory on an island in Denmark. His observations were later used to determine the laws that govern the motion of planets, and helped Sir Isaac Newton formulate the laws of gravity. If you could go to an observatory and look at objects outside of the earth's atmosphere, which things would you like to look at first? Make a list of six heavenly objects you would like to observe.
Wednesday, Aug. 9. 2006: Work began in 1936 on the first full-length animated film Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at the Walt Disney Studios. One of the most popular songs from that film is "Whistle While You Work," which suggests whistling as a way to make a hard job seem easier. What are four other things you could do that might make a hard job easier or more fun?
Thursday, Aug. 10, 1006: Herbert Hoover, America's 31st President, was born in 1874. He once said, "Words without actions are the assassins of idealism." What do you think he meant by that?
Friday, Aug. 11, 2006: In 1688, the people of New Rochelle, NY, agreed to pay a fat calf every year to the members of the Pell family as rent for the land the city was built on. The agreement was forgotten, and the first calf was actually paid 265 years later, in 1953. How do you think the members of the Pell family reacted when they were told they were getting a fat calf in payment of a debt more than 200 years old? Pretend you are a member of the Pell family, and write a letter to the citizens of New Rochelle, NY, about how you feel.

Monday, Aug. 14, 2006: John Ringling North, who combined his family's circus with several others to form the Ringling Brothers, Barnum, and Bailey Circus, was born in 1903. Because of special effects, television and movies can now show people doing things that are much more amazing than those things circus performers do, but many people still prefer to see the real performances rather than special effects. How do you feel about this: do you prefer real life performances, or ones involving special effects that no real person could ever do? Why do you prefer the kind you like?
Tuesday, Aug. 15, 2006: Napoleon Bonaparte was born in 1769. He is considered one of the first great modern generals. He did not fight himself, but would try to find a high hill overlooking the battle where he could send orders in writing to the fighters. When pictures of him were made after the battles, he would tuck his hand inside his jacket to hide his inky fingers, since he thought they made him look like a sissy. People often try to hide things they think are unflattering. What are some things you have seen people try to hide from others about themselves?
Wednesday, Aug. 16, 2006: Today several towns in Argentina celebrate the Festival of the Snow (Fiesta de la Nieve). Seasons are reversed south of the Equator, so South America, Southern Africa, and Australia experience winter during June, July, and August. Suppose you woke up tomorrow morning and found that the seasons were reversed, and what is now summer was suddenly winter? How would you feel? What would you do?
Thursday, Aug. 17, 2006: Davy Crockett, American frontiersman and explorer, was born in 1786. He once said, "I was never lost, but I was bewildered for three days once." Have you ever been lost? How did you feel? What did you do to help yourself be found?
Friday, Aug. 18, 2006: Genghis Khan, founding ruler of the Mongol Empire, died in 1227. He conquered China, Russia, India, Persia, and Iraq, but his huge empire fell apart after his death. If you could visit one of the parts of his ancient empire listed above, which one would you like to visit? Why that part?

Monday, Aug. 21, 2006: Wilt Chamberlain, Hall of Fame basketball player, was born in 1936. He was seven feet, one inch, tall, and the second highest scorer in the history of the NBA. He once said, "Nobody roots for Goliath." Why do you think he said that? What point was he trying to make?
Tuesday, Aug. 22, 2006: One of the most famous vocal groups in the world, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, was formed in 1947. When you listen to singing, do you prefer to listen to a single singer, or a vocal group? Tell which singer or group you like, and what songs they sing that you think are especially good.
Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2006: In the year 410, the city of Rome was captured by the Visigoths, a German-speaking tribe, and looted. This date marks the end of the Classical Ages and the beginning of the Middle Ages. Think about how people lived in ancient times: for instance, one reason their clothes were so different was they had not discovered the button. If you had to live in the same way those people lived, what five changes do you think would be the hardest for you to get used to? Why those changes?
Thursday, Aug. 24, 2006: The printing of the Gutenberg Bible, the first book printed by modern methods, was completed in 1456. This date is considered to be the end of the Middle Ages and the beginning of the Modern Ages. Suppose all books still had to be copied by hand, and every student was supposed to copy one book before he or she could graduate from school. What book would you copy? Why that one?
Friday, Aug. 25, 2006: The city of New Orleans, LA, was founded in 1580. The city has had an eventful history, featuring both good (the invention of jazz) and bad (Hurricane Katrina' destructive flood). Everyone has a history that contains both good and bad. Briefly write about a favorite good time or a funny bad time you experienced or know about.

Monday, Aug. 28, 2006: German author Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (pronounced GO-tah) was born in 1749. He wrote, "Excellence is raily found, more rarely valued." What do you think he meant by this?
Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2006: Sir Michael Faraday demonstrated the first practical electrical transformer in 1831, allowing electricity to be transmitted long distances by wires. Without transformers, almost every electrical device would have to be operated by batteries, and the batteries for such things as air conditioners, electric heaters, refrigerators, or hot water heaters would be huge. What are five ways your life would change if all the electrical devices in your life had to be run off batteries.
Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2006: The first computer designed to communicate with other computers was put into operation in 1969. In a few months, other computers were set up to form the first part of what is now the Internet (then called the ARPANET). Most students today use the Internet all the time, but many older adults are still not used to it. What are three things you think could be done to help older people get used to the Internet?
Thursday, Aug. 31, 2006: The first solar-powered car was introduced in 1955 by General Motors in Chicago, IL. Solar cars have never become popular because they are not very powerful and cannot run at night for very long, but solar power is used for several other things, including pocket calculators, yard lights, and traffic signals. As solar technology becomes cheaper and more powerful, other uses for it will become common. Name three things you think might become solar powered in the next few years. Which of them will be the first to become solar powered?

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

JUNE, 2006

The character trait for June is CHARITY.

Lovingkindness
Benevolence
Concern for the well-being of others

Thursday, June 1, 2006: Scottish explorer James Ross determined the location of the North Magnetic Pole in 1831. This is the spot on the earth's surface to which a compass needle points, and is not the same as the North Geographic Pole, but is fairly near to it. How do you think traveling and exploring would be different if there was no Magnetic Pole, and compasses didn't work? List 3 ways.
Friday, June 2, 2006: In 1897, rumors swept the country that Mark Twain (Samuel Clemons) had died. Many newspapers printed his obituary. He sent out a message saying, "The reports of my death have been greatly exaggerated," but enjoyed reading the biographies in his obituaries and sending corrections for them. Suppose you were to read a printed biography of yourself that listed your birthday wrong. Write a correction note for such an error.

Monday, June 5, 2006: In 1940, tires made from synthetic (artificial) rubber began being sold in the United States, because warfare had stopped importation of natural rubber. Modern tires are made of both natural and synthetic rubber and other materials. Make a list of things you use that are not produced in this country. Which ones would be hardest to replace if you couldn't get them?
Tuesday, June 6, 2006: In 1816, volcanic ash and gas from the eruptions of Tamboura, a massive volcano in modern Indonesia, blocked so much sunlight that the entire climate of the earth was changed. 10 inches of snow fell on this day in Boston, and 1816 was known as "the year without a summer." Suppose there should be such a year now. How would your life change if the entire summer was cold and snowy? List 5 ways.
Wednesday, June 7, 2006: Pulitzer-prize-winning poet Gwendolyn Brooks was born in 1917. She once wrote, "We are each other's harvest; we are each other's business; we are each other's magnitude and bond." What do you think she meant by this?
Thursday, June 8, 2006: Geoffrey Chaucer, the first notable writer in the English language, was given a job in the government that allowed him to write. He wrote The Canterbury Tales, a series of stories told by people traveling to Canterbury to entertain each other. If you were traveling with your friends, what kind of story would you tell them?
Friday, June 9, 2006: Happy birthday, Donald Duck! The first cartoon featuring him came out in 1934. He is famous for his bad temper, which is funny in a cartoon, but not funny in real people. What are three things you can do to help you deal with a bad-tempered person without losing your temper yourself?

Monday, June 12, 2006: Babe Didrikson Zaharias became the first American woman to win the British Amateur Ladies' Golf Championship in 1947. She won many other golf tournaments, and also won Olympic medals in track. Many sports historians consider her to have been the best female athlete of all time. Who is your favorite female athlete? Why do you like her?
Tuesday, June 13, 2006: Irish poet William Butler Yeats was born in 1865. Here is one of his most famous poems:

The Lake Isle of Innisfree

I will arise and go now, and go to Innisfree,
And a small cabin build there, of clay and wattles made;
Nine bean rows will I have there, a hive for the honey bee,
And live alone in the bee-loud glade.

And I shall have some peace there, for peace comes dropping slow,
Dropping from the veils of the morning to where the cricket sings;
There midnight's all a glimmer, and noon a purple glow,
And evening full of the linnet's wings.

I will arise and go now, for always night and day
I hear lake water lapping with low sounds by the shore;
While I stand on the roadway, or on the pavements gray,
I hear it in the deep heart's core.

Yeats was living in London when he wrote this poem. Why do you think he was so anxious to go back to the remote lake in Ireland at that time?

Wednesday, June 14, 2006: Folk singer Burl Ives was born in 1909. He sang both serious and comic folk songs, including I know an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly. What is your favorite humorous or comic song? Get together with your friends and be prepared to sing it to your class.
Thursday, June 15, 2006: The world's first aviation accident happened in 1785, when two French hot-air balloonists collided and died. Today flying is much safer than driving, based on accidents per mile. What are 4 things you can do to avoid becoming the victim of a traffic accident?
Friday, June 16, 2006: In 1963, Valentina Terishkova became the first woman to fly in space. She was a citizen of the USSR (now Russia) and a very skilled parachutist. She had to sky dive out of her capsule at 20,000 feet to survive her 3-day space trip. Imagine that she was coming to visit your class. What are 3 questions you would like to ask her?

Monday, June 19, 2006: In 240 B.C., the Greek-speaking philosopher Eratosthenes of Cyrene deduced that the earth had the shape of a sphere, and estimated its diameter, making an error of less than 3000 miles, despite having no telescopes or modern measuring instruments. If he had them, he might have been even more accurate. Think of three tasks you have done that would have been easier if you had better tools. What were they? How would better tools have made the task easier?
Tuesday, June 20, 2006: The first annual Swiss Cheese Festival was held in Middlefield, Ohio, in 1970. What kind of cheese is your favorite? Write a slogan or motto promoting your favorite cheese or cheese dish. (If you don't like cheese, write about another food you like.)
Wednesday, June 21, 2006: Today is Constitution Day. The United States Constitution was finally ratified in 1788 and became the basis for the American government. A constitution is a written plan for running an organization, such as a nation, state, or club. Suppose you were trying to write a constitution for a club. What are four problems such a constitution would have to solve? How would you solve them?
Thursday, June 22, 2006: Swimmer Johnny Weissmuller broke four swimming records in one day. He won gold medals for swimming in the 1928 and 1932 Olympics, then became a movie star playing Tarzan. If you were determined to break a record in sports, entertainment, or some other activity, what record would you try to break? Why do you want to break that one?
Friday, June 23, 2006: Oliver Lippincott became the first person to visit Yellowstone National Park by car, instead of visiting it by train or horse-drawn coach. Today almost all visitors to national parks travel by car or bus, but there are still many places which can't be reached by cars or buses. Think of some place you would like to visit that does not have paved roads. Why would you like to go there? How would you get there?

Monday, June 26, 2006: Atlantic City, New Jersey, opens a new beachside Boardwalk for visitors and tourists. This is the same Boardwalk that is in the original Monopoly game, which was based on the streets of Atlantic City. Plan a Monopoly game based on the streets and features of your town.
Tuesday, June 27, 2006: In 1999, Tony Hawk successfully completed skateboarding's first front-side 900 at the X Games Best Trick competition. This trick requires the skateboarder to do two and a half rotations off the halfpipe. Skateboarding and snowboarding are among the newer sports that have become popular, although some of them can be very dangerous if done wrong or carelessly. Do you prefer these new sports or do you like the older sports better? Give reasons for your preference.
Wednesday, June 28, 2006: In 1754, a tiny force of Virginians commanded by Colonel George Washington were forced to surrender to the French and their Indian allies at Fort Necessity in western Virginia. It was Washington's first military action. Despite his defeat, Washington remained determined to follow a military career. Think of some other people you know who have had early defeats or setbacks yet later became successful. List four of them, and briefly tell what they accomplished.
Thursday, June 29, 2006: The original Globe Theatre, where William Shakespeare produced his plays, burned down during a performance of the play Henry VIII in the year 1613. It was rebuilt in modern times. What plays have you seen, or do you wish to see? Why those plays?
Friday, June 30, 2006: This is the end of the first half of the year: six months have passed, and six months remain. List five things that have happened to you or your community since January and tell whether each of them had a good or bad effect.

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

MAY, 2006

The character trait for May is TEMPERANCE.

Appropriate reactions to events in our lives
Moderation
Avoidance of extremes

Monday, May 1, 2006: Today is Loyalty Day in the United States. People are supposed to think about what loyalty means, and what they are loyal to. In your opinion, what three qualities would you look for in a loyal friend? Do you have those qualities?
Tuesday, May 2, 2006: The first trans-Atlantic picture fax was sent between Britain and the United States. If you could get a fax picture from a foreign place, where would you like to get one from, and what would you like for it to show?
Wednesday, May 3, 2006: Today is Airline Passenger Day. The first passenger was carried on an airplane in 1919, and the first jet passenger plane started service in 1952. A long trip on an airplane can be very boring, especially if you cannot see out of a window. What are some things that you would do if you were taking a trip of several hours alone on an airplane and had to stay in your seat?
Thursday, May 4, 2006: Horace Mann was born in 1796. He was a famous educator, and worked to make free schooling available to everyone. He once said, "Be ashamed to die until you have won some victory for humanity." What do you think he meant by that?
Friday, May 5, 2006: In 1806, Mary Kies of Connecticut became the first American woman to get a patent in her own name. She invented a way of weaving straw and thread to make mats and other articles. Many common household articles we use today were once unknown until someone like Mary Kies invented them. Make a list of three things you use every day. Use an encyclopedia or other sources to see if you can find out who invented them, or who first discovered a way to make them easily and cheaply. For instance: who invented the machine that makes pencils? (Teachers: Eberhart Faber invented the pencil-making machine and founded the pencil company that bears his name.)

Monday, May 8, 2006: In 1980, the World Health Agency announced that smallpox, a deadly and very contagious disease, had been wiped out in humans. Since humans can only catch smallpox from each other, it is the only disease we have ever been able to end completely. Since then, efforts have been made to wipe out several other deadly diseases, but none have been successful so far. Think about the other diseases caused by germs (cancer and heart disease aren't usually caused by germs) and tell which one you think the World Health Organization should work on next. Why that one?
Tuesday, May 9, 2006: President Wilson proclaimed the first Mothers Day holiday in 1914. Why do you think it took until 1914 to think of the idea of a day to honor all mothers?
Wednesday, May 10, 2006: Today is the annual Cat Festival in Ypres, Belgium. Cats are honored for their destruction of disease-carrying and food-destroying rats. If your school were to celebrate a Cat Festival, what are some things you could do to celebrate?
Thursday, May 11, 2006: The American College of Physicians was founded in 1915. A college can be a school, but this one is a group of doctors who work together to better the education of doctors. If there was an American College of Students, what do you think it should recommend to improve your education?
Friday, May 12, 2006: Poet John Masefield died in 1967, having served as Poet Laureate of Great Britain since 1930. His most famous poem is below:

"Sea-Fever"

I must down to the seas again, to the lonely sea and the sky,
And all I ask is a tall ship and a star to steer her by,
And the wheel's kick and the wind's song and the white sail's shaking,
And a grey mist on the sea's face, and a grey dawn breaking.

I must down to the seas again, for the call of the running tide
Is a wild call and a clear call that may not be denied;
And all I ask is a windy day with the white clouds flying,
And the flung spray and the blown spume, and the sea-gulls crying.

I must down to the seas again, to the vagrant gypsy life,
To the gull's way and the whale's way where the wind's like a whetted knife;
And all I ask is a merry yarn from a laughing fellow-rover
And quiet sleep and a sweet dream when the long trick's over.

This poem tells how much Masefield liked sailing. Make a list of the things he loves about it. Then think of something you love to do, and make a list of the things about it you like about it.

Monday, May 15, 2006: Today is Straw Hat Day. Design a straw hat you would wear in a Straw Hat Parade.
Tuesday, May 16, 2006: In 1771, the Regulators were defeated in North Carolina. The Regulators objected to Royal Governor Tryon's taxes, which he had raised to build his fine new house in New Bernâ€”now reconstructed as Tryon Palace. This battle is now considered a prelude to the American Revolution. If you could go back and live a the time of the Revolutionary War, what would you do? List four things.
Wednesday, May 17, 2006: Happy birthday, Norway! The first king of Norway was crowned in 872. Norway is a very mountainous country with a cold climate, and Norwegians love to ski and ice skate. What sports do you like to participate in? Why do you like those sports?
Thursday, May 18, 2006: Mount St. Helens erupted explosively in 1980. The volcano continues to be active in a minor way. Some people want to visit it, others fear it may erupt violently again. Do you think people should be able to visit the volcano if it means they are risking their life? Give reasons for your answer.
Friday, May 19, 2006: In 1977, President Kenyatta of Kenya banned big-game hunting in his country in order to conserve wildlife and increase tourism. Now, in some places, some wild animals are becoming dangerous (lions and hyenas) or destructive (elephants) because their numbers have increased so they cannot all live on parks and reserves. Some people want to allow limited big-game hunting to resume. Do you agree with them? Why or why not?

Monday, May 22, 2006: The first life insurance policy was sold in America in 1761. Life was much more dangerous in those days, because of both diseases and accidents. What things do people do today that are likely to make their lives shorter? List 4 of them.
Tuesday, May 23, 2006: The main New York Public Library building was opened by President Taft in 1911. It is the largest marble building ever built in the United States. Suppose you were asked to design a library for your community. What are some things you would include? What would you leave out?
Wednesday, May 24, 2006: If you have ever played the classic game of Monopoly, you have heard of the Reading Railroad. It was a real railroad, centered in Reading, PA, founded in 1871. If you were to design a Monopoly game based on your home town, what would you name the various streets and businesses on it?
Thursday, May 25, 2006: Thor Heyerdahl set from Africa for America in the Ra, a boat made of reeds, with a design taken from ancient Egyptian designs. He wanted to prove that ancient Egypt could have traded or visited the New World. Some people say his trip proved his idea was right, others say that one trip is not enough to prove an idea so unusual. Do you think that his voyage proved or disproved his idea ? Why do you think as you do?
Friday, May 26, 2006: In 1927, Ford Motor Company produced its 15 millionth Model T, which it had been making for many years. Shortly afterwards, the company stopped making the Model T and started a more modern car, the Model A, which it also made for many years. Today, most car companies make new models every year. How often do you think a family should buy a new car? Should it be often, so as to have the newest features, or less often, to save money? Explain your choice.

Monday, May 29, 2006: Edmund Hillary of New Zealand and Tenzing Norgay of Nepal became the first human beings to climb all the way to the top of Mount Everest in 1953. Since then, so many people have climbed the mountain that litter has become a major problem. Litter also causes problems in many other places. Write a poem, slogan, or ad to persuade people not to litter.
Tuesday, May 30, 2006: The first automobile accident occurred in New York City in 1896, when cars were very rare and expensive. a Duryea car hit a man on a bicycle. Since then, there have been many more car accidents. Teenage drivers have a very high proportion of accidents, compared to older people. Why do you think that is true?
Wednesday, May 31, 2006: In 1890, cars were rare, but bicycles were common and popular. They could go as fast as a horse, and you didn't have to feed them, but many of them had no brakes. You had to drag your feet to stop. The Society of American Wheelmen was founded to work for improved roads and safety. What kind of bicycle do you have, or would you like to have?

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

APRIL, 2006

The character trait for April is TRUSTWORTHINESS.

Reliability
Dependability
Being worthy of confidence

Monday, April 3, 2006: Washington Irving was born in 1783. He wrote many short stories, including Rip Van Winkle and The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. Rip Van Winkle slept for twenty years, and was amazed by the changes that had occurred. Predict three things you think may happen during the next twenty years. Which of them will make the most difference in the way people live?
Tuesday, April 4, 2006: In 1981, Susan Brown became the first woman to be the cox (person who steers a racing boat, and counts cadence) in the Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race, the oldest continuing boat race in the world. At the end of a boat race, the winning team throws its cox into the water as part of the celebration. How do you think such a tradition got started. Make up a story about it.
Wednesday, April 5, 2006: Actress Bette Davis, who was one of the first movie stars to be willing to play both heroes and villains during her career, was born in 1908. She once said, "Attempt the impossible in order to improve your work." How does attempting the impossible help people to improve?
Thursday, April 6, 2006: Erich Weiss was born in 1874. He changed his name to Harry Houdini and became a world-famous escape artist. Part of his secret was a series of exercises he did every day to keep his body flexible. Exercises usually help you improve either your strength, your endurance, or your flexibility. Think of six exercises and tell which of the these goals it would help you to reach--don't forget, one exercise can help reach more than one goal.
Friday, April 7, 2006: France, which had several different measuring systems in different parts of the country, became the first country to adopt the meter as its national unit of length. List three advantages of the metric system (meters, kilometers, liters) of measurement, and three advantages of the customary system (inches, pounds, gallons).

Monday, April 10, 2006: Walter Hunt patented the first safety pin in 1849. At first, safety pins were quite expensive, and there was a fad for clothes held together with safety pins until the price came down. Think of the fads that you have experienced. Which of them did you like the best? Why did you like it?
Tuesday, April 11, 2007: The French government offered to sell their colony of Louisiana to the United States in 1803. The French thought that if they did not sell it to the U.S., the British would march down from Canada and conquer it, and had no spare troops to defend it. Imagine that the French had never sold Louisiana and it had become a separate country. How do you think the world would have been different? List three ways.
Wednesday, April 12, 2006: Henry Clay, American politician and statesman, was born in 1777. He once said, "I would rather be right than President." What do you think he meant by that?
Thursday, April 13, 2006: World chess champion Gary Kasparov was born in 1963. Chess is a very complicated game, but many people enjoy playing it. What is your favorite board game? Why do you like it?
Friday, April 14, 2006: The first Volvo car was manufactured in Sweden in 1927. Volvo cars are famous for their safe construction, but they are more expensive than many other kinds of cars. If you were going to buy an expensive car, what are three things would you look for in it?

Monday, April 17, 2006: L.M. Norton patented an unusual food in 1810: pineapple-flavored cheese. It never became popular. Think of four other unusual flavor combinations you have never tasted. Tell whether you think they would be popular, and why.
Tuesday, April 18, 2006: San Francisco was shaken by one of the most severe earthquakes ever recorded in 1906. Although the earthquake damaged many buildings, much more destruction was caused by the fire that followed, because the earthquake had broken the water mains, and firefighters could not put out the blazes that broke out. Of earthquakes, hurricanes, or tornadoes, which do you think would be the worst to experience? Why do you think so?
Wednesday, April 19, 2006: Comic actor, composer, and pianist Dudley Moore was born in 1935. He once said, "The best car safety device is a rear-view mirror with a cop in it." Why do you think people behave better when there are police near?
Thursday, April 20, 2006: Koster and Bail's Music Hall shows the first movies for an admission fee in 1896. Think of the movies you have seen. What are four things that you think make a movie enjoyable? Rank them from most important to least, and tell why you think they are enjoyable things for a movie to have.
Friday, April 21, 2006: John Muir, naturalist and author, was born in 1838. He founded the Sierra Club to protect the wilderness, and worked to set up parks to protect redwood trees so people could see them. Every nation has beautiful places people like to visit. What beautiful place would you like to visit? Why that place?

Monday, April 24, 2006: Ralph DePalma wins his first car race in 1908. He became the first world-famous car-racing driver. He won the 1912 Indianapolis 500 by so much that even though his car ran out of gas just before reaching the finish line, he was able to push it across and win before anyone else could pass him. Do you like car racing? Give two reasons for your answer.
Tuesday, April 25, 2006: In 1790, Daniel Defoe published Robinson Crusoe. It was based on the true story of Alexander Selkirk. It was the first famous survival novel. Modern survival novels include Hatchet by Gary Paulsen and My Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George. Suppose you had to survive in the countryside near your home. Make a list of the tools or supplies you would need. Rank them in order of importance.
Wednesday, April, 26, 2006: Writer George Jean Nathan once wrote, "Bad officials are elected by good citizens who do not vote." What do you think he meant by that?
Thursday, April 27, 2006: The first successful appendectomy was performed by George Thomas Morton in 1887. Before that, most people who had appendicitis died. Imagine that you were Dr. Morton's patient. How do you think he or she would have felt before this new operation was performed?
Friday, April 28, 2006: Harper Lee, the author of To Kill a Mockingbird, was born in 1926. Her book is still popular and sells copies every year, but she has never written another book. If you could ask a famous author a single question, who would ask, and what question would you ask?

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

MARCH, 2006

The character trait for March is CITIZENSHIP.

Respect for law
Patriotism
Love of country
Contribution to laws, policies, and human rights
service to others

Wednesday, March 1, 2006: In 1469, William Caxton published the first book ever printed on the printing press in the English. If you were asked to write a book that would be published for everyone to read, what would you choose to write about? Briefly state what your book would be about.
Thursday, March 2, 2006: Today is Seussday! Theodore Geisel, who wrote under the name of Dr. Seuss, was born in 1904. Dr. Seuss once wrote, "You can get help from teachers, but you are going to have to learn a lot by yourself, sitting alone in a room." What do you think he meant by that?
Friday, March 3, 2006: Jean Harlow, a glamorous and talented actress who specialized in comedies, was born in 1911. She died as a result of scarlet fever, which damaged her kidneys as a child, in 1937. The actor Clark Gable once said of her, "She didn't want to be famous; she wanted to be happy." Do you think that being famous and being happy are the same thing? Give some examples that support your opinion.

Monday, March 6, 2006: In 1861, King Charles II of Great Britain gave a grant of land to William Penn which was to serve as a home for Quakers, who were unpopular in England. This land grant is now the state of Pennsylvania. If you were to take a tour of Pennsylvania, what are five places you would like to see? Why those places?
Tuesday, March 7, 2006: In 1820, the Royal Astronomical Society was founded in Britain to encourage the study of the heavens. Today, there are men and women who have gone into space. What are 5 qualities a person who wants to be an astronaut must have? Give reasons for each of your answers.
Wednesday, March. 8, 2006: Supreme Court Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr., was born in 1841. He was famous for his writings on behalf of freedom. He once wrote, "We should be eternally vigilant against attempts to check the expression of opinions that we loathe." What do you think he meant by that?
Thursday, March 9, 2006: In 1822, Charles Graham patented a new way of making false teeth based on making molds of the patient's gums. Although false teeth are useful, they are far more troublesome and uncomfortable than real teeth. List five things you can do to take care of your teeth.
Friday, March 10, 2006: The first celebration of Mother's Day is held in Grafton, West Virginia, in 1908. There are days for mothers, fathers, grandparents, and even for children. What group that does not already have a day needs one? Tell why you think that group needs a day of recognition, and some ways you think it should be celebrated.

Monday, March 13, 2006: Astronomer William Herschel discovered the planet Uranus in 1781. It was the first planet discovered since ancient times, and the first one that cannot be seen without a telescope. Many people have objected to the pattern of naming planets of our sun only for Roman gods. They think that wider sources should be used. In the last few years, new objects the size of planets have been found orbiting the sun, and the name of Roman gods and goddesses is running out. What names would you suggest for new planets that may be discovered? Defend your suggestions.
Tuesday, March 14, 2006: Hank Ketcham, the cartoonist who draws the Dennis the Menace cartoons, was born in 1920. What is your favorite comic strip character? Why do you like that one?
Wednesday, March 15, 2006: In 1911, Gustave Otto started a factory to make modern gasoline engines, which he had invented several years before. Gasoline engines are lightweight and powerful, and are used for cars, trucks, boats, airplanes, lawnmowers, snow blowers, and many other useful machines. List five ways your life would change if Otto had not invented the gasoline engine.
Thursday, March 16, 2006: The US Military Academy was founded in 1802 at West Point, New York, to train officers for the army. What are four qualities a good officer must have? Explain your choices.
Friday, March 17, 2006: Ferdinand Porsche produces the first Porsche car in 1949. Porsche cars are famous for being fast and agile. What are 2 qualities a good car must have, in your opinion? Why do you think those qualities are most important?

Monday, March 20, 2006: Uncle Tom's Cabin by Harriet Beecher Stowe, was published in 1852. This harrowing story of slave life was the first big international best seller published by an American. Its plot, based on real events, changed many people's mind about slavery. Have you ever read a book that changed your mind, or the mind of someone you know, about something? What was the book, and what did it change your mind about?
Tuesday, March 21, 2006: French scientist Louis Pasteur began work on a vaccine against anthrax in 1877. Pasteur had already proved that microorganisms cause disease, and had invented a way to purify milk and other liquids that cannot be boiled. This process was named pasteurization, after him. If something was to be named after you, what would you like it to be, or to do?
Wednesday, March 22, 2006: The laser is patented by Americans Arthur Schawlaw and Charles Townes. Laser is a made-up word called an initialism, whose letters stand for "Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation." Think up a new name for something you use that is made of initials from letters of words that describe it. Example "Two-Wheeled One-Seat Pedaled Exercise Machine" (TWOSPEM) might be a new name for a stationary bicycle.
Thursday, March 23, 2006: In 1786, George Washington planted 4,000 chestnut trees on land that had been farmed too much and was worn out. This is considered one of the first examples of reforesting in the United States. Think of three other ways to use land that has been worn out. Write a paragraph about one of them.
Friday, March 24, 2006: John Harrison died in 1776. He invented the chronometer, an extremely accurate clock that allowed ships to accurately determine how far east or west of the Prime Meridian they were. Today, chronometers are small enough to be made as wristwatches, although the ones Harrison invented were much larger (about the size of a regular 3-layer cake). What is some device you use that you wish might be made much smaller? Why would having a smaller version of that device be helpful to you?

Monday, March 27, 2006: Happy birthday, Florida! Ponce de Leon discovered Florida in 1513, while on an expedition to find the fountain of youth. If you were put in charge of planning a birthday party for Florida, what interesting things about that state would you want to celebrate? List 5 of them.
Tuesday, March 28, 2006: In 1797, the United States patent office granted a patent for a cloths-washing machine that worked with a hand crank. Although cranking it was still a lot of work, it was better than having to scrub all the clothes by hand. How would your life be different if you still had to turn your washing machine by a hand crank? List 4 ways.
Wednesday, March 29, 2006: In 1848, a prolonged cold snap caused ice to block the Niagara River, cutting off water from Niagara Falls for a day. When the falls stopped flowing, many people who lived near them couldn't get to sleep because they were so used to the noise. Stop for a minute and listen very carefully to the sounds going on around you. Make a list of those sounds that you usually ignore.
Thursday, March 30, 2006: "Beau" Brummel, the first man to become famous for the style of his clothes, died in 1840. In his time, many young men imitated his clothing, rather than that of the king (who was very fat and dumpy-looking). Who are some of the people today whose style in clothes you admire? Why do you admire them?
Friday, March 31, 2006: Rene Descartes, the discoverer of coordinate geometry, was born 1596. He once said, "It is not enough to have a good mind. The main thing is to use it well." What do you think he meant by that?

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

February, 2006

The character trait for February is COOPERATION.

Respect for diversity
Teamwork within home, school, and community

Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2006: Today is National Freedom Day. Think of the kinds of freedom you have, and the price people have paid to give these freedoms to you. In your opinion, which kind of freedom is the most important for people your age? Why that one?
Thursday, Feb. 2, 2006. In 1876, the National Baseball League was formed. It is the oldest professional sports league in the United States. Baseball is no longer the most popular American professional sport. Why do you think other sports have become more popular? Think of three or more reasons.
Friday, Feb. 3, 2006: In 1889, the famous female outlaw and bank robber Belle Starr was killed by being shot in the back. Despite Belle, most crimes are committed by men, not women. Why do you think this is so?

Monday, Feb. 6, 2006: In 1659, the first check on a bank account was written and accepted in Britain. What are the advantages and disadvantages of using checks to pay for things.
Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2006: In 1914, comic actor Charlie Chaplin introduced his Little Tramp character. He became so popular that he became the first real movie star. Chaplin once said, "A day without laughter is a day wasted." What do you think he meant by that?
Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2006: Businessman Harold Geneen said, "I don't believe in just ordering people to do things. You have to sort of grab an oar and row with them." What do you think he meant by that?
Thursday, Feb. 9, 2006: In 1863, Anthony Hope was born. He was an English writer whose most famous book was The Prisoner of Zenda, about a British soldier that happens to look exactly like a foreign ruler, and the problems this causes him. Suppose you looked exactly like a famous person. What person would you like to look like? What problems might that cause you?
Friday, Feb. 10, 2006: In 1933, singing telegrams were introduced. For a fee, you could send a message to anyone in the country, and a person would sing the message to them, making up or borrowing a tune for the message. Make up a silly message or song about something in your school or class, and sing it to your classmates.

Monday, Feb. 13, 2006: Tonight is the full moon, which the Indians called the Snow Moon, because this is the coldest time of year in most places in the northern hemisphere. What is your favorite activity to do when it snows?
Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2006: In 1764, a trading post was started that slowly grew into the city of St. Louis, Missouri. It served Indians and European settlers that were traveling on the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers. Make a list of things that people traded in 1764 that we almost never buy or sell today. To get you started, there were no matches, so people used pieces of flint rock to make sparks.
Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2006: Cyrus McCormick was born in 1809. He invented the first mechanical reaper, which allowed one farmer to harvest as much grain in a day as 20 workers were able to do before. One result of his invention was lowering the cost of food. How do you think lowering the cost of food helped people? List three ways.
Thursday, Feb. 16, 2006: In 1878, the first silver dollar coin was minted. Before then, all dollar coins had been gold, and one-dollar coins did not exist, because the amount of gold needed for one was so small. Would you rather have a dollar coin or a dollar bill? Why do you prefer that form of money?
Friday, Feb. 17, 2006: In 1972, the 15th million VW bug was manufactured, making it the most popular car of all time. It looked very different from all of the other cars made either before or since. Why do you think such an odd-looking car was so popular?

Monday, Feb. 20, 2006: Enzo Ferrari, the designer and originator of the Ferrari motor car was born in 1898. Ferraris are very beautiful, very fast, and very expensive. Modern Ferraris can go over 150 miles an hour, a speed that is legal nowhere in the world. Why do you think a person would spend hundreds of thousands of dollars for a car that they can never drive as fast as it is designed to be driven?
Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2006: W.H. Auden, Pulitzer-prize winning poet was born in 1906. Here is a poem he wrote:

Funeral Blues

Stop all the clocks, cut off the telephone,
Prevent the dog from barking with a juicy bone.
Silence the pianos and with muffled drum
Bring out the coffin, let the mourners come.

Let aeroplanes circle moaning overhead
Scribbling on the sky the message He is Dead,
Put crÃ©pe bows round the white necks of the public doves,
Let the traffic policemen wear black cotton gloves.

He was my North, my South, my East and West,
My working week and my Sunday rest,
My noon, my midnight, my talk, my song,
I thought that love would last forever: 'I was wrong'

The stars are not wanted now, put out every one;
Pack up the moon and dismantle the sun;
Pour away the ocean and sweep up the wood.
For nothing now can ever come to any good.

In this poem, Auden says he was wrong about something. What was he wrong about? Why was he wrong?

Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2006: On this day ever year, the sun rises so that its first rays shine in the door of the temple of the sun god Re in Abu Simbel. The temple was built by the ancient Egyptians, and this day was their annual holiday in honor of the sun god and sun goddess. Why do you think that the sun god was so important to the ancient Egyptians? Give three reasons. (The sun also shines directly in the door on Oct. 22, another major holiday for them.)
Thursday, Feb. 23, 2006: In 1874, Major Walter Wingfield patents the first rules of outdoor tennis. Before this, it had always been played indoors, and there were few places to play it. Tennis, badminton, and volleyball are all played on a court with a net stretched across the middle. Which of these three sports is your favorite? Why that one?
Friday, Feb. 24, 2006: in 1208, St. Francis of Assisi began his order of Franciscans, dedicated to helping and serving the poor. He once said, "Where there is charity and wisdom, there is neither fear nor ignorance." What do you think he meant by that?

Monday, Feb. 27, 2006: In 1827, the first Mardi Gras was held in New Orleans, LA. Despite the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, the people of New Orleans are determined to have Mardi Gras even if the city is not yet rebuilt. Why do you think they are so determined to have this holiday?
Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2006: Today is the birthday of the Euro. In 2002, 12 European nations decided to have only one form of money. Francs, marks, lira, guilders, krona, and several other forms of money ceased to be made. The countries did this to help make trade and travel among those countries easier and faster. The countries held contest for designs for the new money. If the US had a contest to redesign all our money, what are some things you think the new bills or coins should have on them?

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

JANUARY, 2006

The character trait for January is INTEGRITY.

Inner strength
truthfulness
trustworthyness
honesty
honor and justice

Monday, Jan, 2, 2006: In 2001, Derrick Seaver, age 18, took office as a member of the Ohio General Assembly. He is the youngest person ever elected to state office in the United States. Only 18 states allow people younger than 30 to serve in the state legislature. Do you feel this is right or wrong? Give three reasons for your opinion.
Tuesday, Jan 3, 2006: The Roman statesman Cicero was born in 106 BC. A powerful speaker, he argued against the growing domination of Rome by the military. His speeches were written down and are still studied by people who want to learn to speak well. Who is the best person you know who gives speeches? What makes that person a good speaker? List as many reasons as you can.
Wednesday, Jan 4, 2006: Thomas Stevens completed the first journey around the world on a bicycle in 1887. He rode a bike with a huge front wheel, a small back wheel, and no brakes. List four problems he would face on such a long trip with such a bicycle.
Thursday, Jan 5, 2006: In 1759, the French writer and critic Voltaire said, "Opinion has caused more trouble on this little earth than plagues or earthquakes." What do you think he meant by that? Do you agree?
Friday, Jan. 6, 2006: Heinrich Schliemann, the archeologist who discovered the ruins of Troy, was born in 1822. Everyone thought that Troy was a myth, but Schliemann used clues in the epics about the Trojan War to find the actual location of the city. If you could visit any ancient or legendary place, where would you go and what would you want to see when you got there?

Monday, Jan 9, 2006: In 1793, President George Washington watched the first hot-air balloon trip ever made in the United States. In 1923, an early ancestor of the helicopter, the autogyro, made its first successful flight, and in 1969, the first supersonic passenger plane, the Concorde, made its first flight. If you could ride in a balloon, a helicopter, or a supersonic jet, which one would you choose? Why that one?
Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2006: The first jeeps were made for the United States armed forces in 1942. The jeep was a light, simple replacement for the horse, who has to be fed whether you needed to ride him or not. Jeeps became popular after the war among people who wanted to travel to hard-to-reach places. If you could go to any remote, hard-to-reach place (like the desert, the jungle, or some remote mountain range) where would you choose to go? What problems do you think you would have reaching that place?
Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2006: This week is International Thank You Week, designated to encourage people to thank others who they may not have had a chance to thank before. Think of all the people who have helped you that you have not had a chance to thank for their hard work. Select one and write that person a thank-you note, then give it to them.
Thursday, Jan. 12, 2006: Edmund Burke, British writer and philosopher, was born in 1729. He wrote, "The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." What do you think he meant by that?
Friday, Jan 13, 2006: Tomorrow night is the first full moon of the year. It is called the Wolf Moon because in earlier times, wolves would become desperate for food during this time of year and attack cattle and other domestic animals. (Wolves almost never attack people; apparently we taste bad to them.) Modern people almost never see wolves, so Wolf Moon is not a very useful name for us. What name would you give for the full moon in January that might be meaningful to today's people? Why that name?

Monday, Jan. 16, 2005: Andre Michelin, the founder of the Michelin Tire Company, was born in 1853. To encourage people to travel in their cars, and buy more tires, he started the Guide Michelin, a guidebook that rated restaurants by the quality of their food and service. List some restaurants you have eaten at, including fast-food restaurants, then rate them in order based on how much you liked their food. Share your list with your classmates. Which restaurants are the favorites?
Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2006: In 1773, British Captain James Cook commanded the first two ships to ever cross the Antarctic Circle. Although it is a cold and barren place, many people visit Antarctica every year. If you went there, what would you expect to see?
Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2006: Horace H. Hayden died in 1844. He founded the first college to train dentists. Many people dislike going to the dentist. What are four things you can do that will make you need to go to the dentist less?
Thursday, Jan. 19, 2006: In 1915, George Claude, a Frenchman, patented the neon sign. Some people love neon signs for their bright colors. Others hate them as glaring and ugly. How do you feel about neon signs? Give reasons for your feelings.
Friday, Jan. 20, 2006: Sunday is Answer Your Cat's Questions Day--a very strange day. If your cat or dog or other pet could ask you questions, what do you think the first three would be? What would your answer be?

Monday, Jan. 23, 2006: Some people love winter for its sports, others hate it for its cold. Name 3 good things and 3 bad things about winter.
Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2006: In 1899, Edward John Phelps, a lawyer and diplomat, said, "The man who makes no mistakes does not usually make anything else." What do you think he meant by that?
Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2006: Today is Burns Day, celebrating the birth of Robert Burns, Scotland's favorite poet, in 1756. Here is part of a poem written by Robert Burns about a finely-dressed lady who has lice:

Oh wad some power the giftie gie us
To see oursel's as others see us!
It wad frae monie a blunder free us,
And foolish notion.

Translation from Scottish dialect:

Oh would some power give us the gift/ To see ourselves as others see us/ It would free us from many blunders/ and foolish notions.

What do you think he means?

Thursday, Jan. 26, 2006: In 1784, Ben Franklin wrote a letter to his daughter protesting against the decision to choose the eagle as the symbol of the United States. He thought the eagle was a cruel, predatory bird, and preferred the turkey instead. Suppose you had to choose an animal as the symbol of your class. It can't be an eagle, or a symbol your school already uses. What animal would you choose? Why that one?
Friday, Jan. 27, 2006: Happy birthday, National Geographic Society. It was organized in 1888 to sponsor explorations and spread knowledge about the world. The movie March of the Penguins is only one of its many films, TV programs, books, or magazine articles it has created. Suppose you went to work for the National Geographic Society. What areas of the world would you like to visit and make reports about? Why those places?

Monday, Jan. 30, 2006: Do you like fish and grape jelly? How about spinach and chocolate? Many people like strange combinations of food. What is the strangest combination of foods you or one of your friends like? Why do you (or that other person) like that combination?
Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2006: In 1709, a British sailor named Alexander Selkirk was rescued from a remote island after being marooned there for 4 years. The writer Daniel Defoe heard of him and used his story in the novel Robinson Crusoe. Suppose you were left alone in some remote place. What are four problems you would have to solve to stay alive? Which do you think would be the most difficult?

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

DECEMBER, 2005

The character trait for December is RESPONSIBILITY.

Dependability
Accountability

Thursday, Dec. 1, 2005: Woody Allen was born in 1935. He once said, "If you want to make God laugh, tell Him your future plans." What do you think he meant by this?
Friday, Dec. 2, 2005: Def Leppard's Rich Savage was born in 1060. Def Leppard's name is very unusual and spelled in an unusual way, to arouse curiosity and interest among listeners. Suppose you wanted to start a music group. What name would you choose to attract people to listen to your music? Think of several, and try them out on your classmates.

Monday, Dec. 5, 2005: Poet Christina Rossetti was born in 1830. Here is a poem she wrote:

A Birthday

My heart is like a singing bird
Whose nest is in a water'd shoot;
My heart is like an apple-tree
Whose boughs are bent with thick-set fruit;
My heart is like a rainbow shell
That paddles in a halcyon sea;
My heart is gladder than all these,
Because my love is come to me.

Raise me a dais of silk and down;
Hang it with vair and purple dyes;
Carve it in doves and pomegranates,
And peacocks with a hundred eyes;
Work it in gold and silver grapes,
In leaves and silver fleurs-de-lys;
Because the birthday of my life
Is come, my love is come to me.

She uses many unusual words and images to describe her feelings. Can you figure out the meaning of her words from their use in the poem? Make a list of 5 words or images in the poem and express their meaning in your own words.

Tuesday, Dec. 6, 2005: Martina Navratilova lost a tennis match to Helena Sukova, ending a string of 74 consecutive tournament victories that had lasted for 11 months. Have you or a team you supported ever had a long string of victories? How did you feel when it ended? (If you are a Chicago Cubs fan, how do you think you will feel if they become champions, like the Red Sox and the White Sox?)
Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2005: Noam Chomsky, American linguist, educator, and author, was born in 1928. He once wrote, "If we don't believe in freedom of expression for people we despise, we don't believe in it at all." What do you think that means?
Thursday, Dec. 8. 2005: In 1660, Margaret Hughes became the first woman to appear on stage in a play in England. Before her, all women's parts were played by men or boys in disguise. Today, there are very few jobs that have not been done by both men and women. Try to think of as many as you can, and tell whether you think those jobs will always be done by only one sex.
Friday, Dec. 9, 2005: America's paper money became equal in value to gold coins of the same denomination for the first time in 1878. American paper money contains many interesting images. Look at any paper money you may have and make a list of the things you see. Are any of them symbols? What do they symbolize?

Monday, Dec. 12, 2005: In 1792, Ludwig van Beethoven began taking music lessons from Franz Joseph Haydn, another famous classical composer. If you could take lessons from a famous person, who would you choose, and what would you like to learn from them?
Tuesday, Dec. 13, 2005: Former Secretary of State and Nobel Peace Prize winner Henry Kissinger said, "Intelligent people are a dime a dozen. But I am proud of having character." What do you think he meant by that?
Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2005: Happy Birthday, NASCAR! The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing was founded in Daytona, FL. One of its chief goals was to make racing safer, and it has pioneered many safety devices used on racing cars and regular cars. Many NASCAR drivers or teams come from North Carolina. What sports star would you like to meet? What would you say to that person?
Thursday, Dec. 15, 2005: In 1791, the Bill of Rights became part of the U.S. Constitution. Which of the rights protected by the Bill of Rights do you think is the most important? Why do you think so?
Friday, Dec. 16, 2005: The source of the Amazon River was finally discovered to be a small mountain creek in southern Peru. Why do you think it took so long to find the source of such an enormous river? Give three reasons it might have taken so long.

Monday, Dec. 19, 2005: In 1905, the first motorized ambulances came into use. Many young people pursue health careers, training to be doctors, nurses, EMTs, therapists, or many other specialties. How do you feel about careers in health or medicine. Tell three reasons such a career might be interesting, OR three reasons you might not want to pursue such a career.
Tuesday, Dec. 20, 2005: Journalist Max Lerner was born in 1902. He wrote, "If you choose the lesser of two evils, always remember that it is still an evil." Why do you think he thought it was important to remember that?
Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2005: Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs was the first full-length cartoon movie, and opened in 1937. Each of the dwarfs was named for a trait of character he displayed (except Doc). If you were named for a character trait, what trait would you prefer to be named for? Why that one?
Thursday, Dec. 22, 2005: The first string of electric Christmas lights were invented by Edward H. Johnson in 1882. Before then, Christmas trees were lit by wax candles, which caused many fires. What kind of Christmas or holiday decoration is your favorite? Why do you like that?
Friday, Dec. 23, 2005: Walter Brattain and John Bardeen invented the transistor in 1947. Transistors made it possible to build compact electronic devices like laptop computers, iPods, and cell phones. What do you think the next hit electronic invention will be? Describe it and what it does.

Have a wonderful holiday season!

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

NOVEMBER, 2005

The character trait for November is CARING.

Kindness
Consideration
Compassion
Treating others as you would wish to be treated

Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2005: Noted golfer Gary Player was born in 1935. He was one of the first famous golfers from Australia. He once said, "The harder you work, the luckier you get." What do you think he meant by that?
Wednesday, Nov. 2, 2005: President Warren G. Harding was born in 1865. Although an honest man himself, he discovered that several of his friends, who he had trusted to help him run the government, were crooks. He died of a stroke that many believed was brought on by worry and disappointment. Have you ever had a friend that let you down when you trusted him or her? How did it make you feel? What did you learn from your experience?
Thursday, Nov. 3, 2005: Today is the Feast of St. Hubert, protector of dogs (as well as several other things). There are many breeds of dogs, and they are very different in appearance. Describe the most interesting or unusual dog you have ever seen or read about.
Friday, Nov. 4, 2005: Abraham Lincoln married Mary Todd in 1842. Although they had many problems and very different personalities, they were always loyal to each other. Many people find that they are good friends with people who are very different from themselves. There is even a saying, "Opposites attract," that is often used to mean that people tend to like others who are different from themselves. Think about one of your friends. List 4 ways you are alike, and 4 ways you are different.

Monday, Nov. 7, 2005: P.L Spencer, the inventor of modern cursive handwriting, was born in 1800. He greatly simplified the cursive way of writing so it would be easier to learn, although it has been made even simpler since he lived. Some people like cursive writing because it is faster than manuscript (printing), others dislike it because it is harder to read. Here's your chance to give your opinion: how do you feel about cursive handwriting? Explain your opinion.
Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2005: Today is election day in the United States. Many people who are eligible to vote do not do so, leaving the choice of the leaders for our nation, state, or community up to others. Prepare an advertising slogan or radio ad to encourage people to vote.
Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2005: In 1989, the Berlin Wall, which symbolized the division of Germany into separate free and communist areas, was opened. Police no longer attempted to prevent free travel through it. The next day, people from all over Berlin, without any announcement, went to the wall and began to tear it down with whatever tools they could find. Families which had been separated by the wall for more than 20 years got together again. Imagine that you have been separated for many years from members of your family and were suddenly allowed to see them again. Write a paragraph about how you would feel or what you would do.
Thursday, Nov. 10, 2005: Happy Birthday, United States Marines! Today in 1775, the Continental Congress created the Marine Corps as a part of the U.S. Navy. They were such fierce fighters that their enemies called them "Devil Dogs," a nickname they adopted. They have also brought aid to thousands of people after wars and natural disasters. Has anyone ever said anything about you that was intended as a put-down, but that you were proud of? Have you ever said anything like that about someone else? Make a list of things you can say about a person that can be either a compliment or a put-down, depending on how you take it.
Friday, Nov. 11, 2005: In 1572, astronomer Tycho Brahe reported a new star had appeared. It soon became so bright that it could be seen in the daytime, but then it faded out. It was the first supernova to be observed and recorded. People were astonished that it had appeared, and even more astonished that it disappeared. Can you think of something that was very common or popular for a time, but has since disappeared? What was it? Why do you think it isn't popular any more?

Monday, Nov. 14, 2005: In 1889, reporter Nelly Bly set out to go around the world in less than 80 days, and break the "record" in Jules Verne's novel Around the World in 80 Days. She made the trip in only 72 days, but many papers refused to report it, claiming a woman could have never made such a trip. Write a paragraph about how you would feel if you were Nelly Bly, who had done something remarkable (for 1889), but had not been given credit for it.
Tuesday, Nov. 15, 2005: Poet Marianne Moore was born in 1887. She wrote in one of her poems, "Superior people never make long visits." Why do you think she believed that?
Wednesday, Nov. 16, 2005: In 1821, William Becknell discovered the Santa Fe Trail, a path over land smooth enough that horse-drawn wagons could follow from the Mississippi River to Santa Fe, New Mexico. Thousands of settlers later followed his trail to help settle the western part of the United States. Have you ever explored something that was new, at least to you? How did you feel about your discovery?
Thursday, Nov. 17, 2005: The first ship sailed through the Panama Canal in 1913. Imagine you were on that ship. What do you think you would see and feel?
Friday, Nov. 18, 2005: According to legend, William Tell was forced to shoot an apple off the head of his only son in 1307 by a cruel tax-gatherer named Gessler. He was forced to do it as a punishment for showing disrespect to the rulers of that time. His skill and courage led the people to revolt, causing the formation of the nation of Switzerland. Imagine if you were in the same situation as William Tell's son. Who would you count on to save you from danger? Why that person?

Monday, Nov. 21. 2005: Voltaire (pen name of Francois Marie Arouet) was born in 1694. He was famous for his passionate belief in freedom. He is reputed to have said, "I disagree with what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it." What do you think he meant by that?
Tuesday, Nov. 22, 2005: In 1809, the first patent for a steel penpoint was issued. People no longer had to make their pens from feathers. The new pens lasted longer and wrote more smoothly. Today we have many kind of things to write and draw with, from dip pens to felt-tip markers. Which is your favorite writing instrument? Why do you prefer that?
Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2005: In 1996, fossil bones were discovered in Antarctica, providing proof that it was once much warmer than it is today, and helping to confirm the theory of Continental Drift. Antarctica has a very cold climate, even in summer, yet people still go there as tourists. What are some things you would like to see if you were given a free trip to Antarctica?
Thursday, Nov. 24, 2005: Grace Darling was born in 1815. She was the daughter of a Scottish lighthouse keeper. In 1838, she and her father used a small boat to rescue 9 people from the wreck of the SS Forfarshire during a terrible storm. She became a heroine. Despite her fame, she continued to live on the tiny island of Inner Farne until she died. How would you like to live on an island? Tell three ways it would be different from living on the mainland. If you do live on an island, tell what you think the advantages or disadvantages are.
Friday, Nov. 25, 2005: In 1948, Ed Parsons of Oregon created the first TV cable system. Prior to cable TV, people used indoor or outdoor antennas in each house. What channels you could see and how good the picture was depended on how far you were from the TV station's tower. Most people could only see two or three channels What are some things you would miss if you could only see three channels: NBC, ABC, and CBS?

Monday, Nov. 28, 2005: The Grand Ole Opry began broadcasting in 1925. It is the longest-running program still being broadcast. Think of some programs that have been on the air for a long time. Which of them do you like? Why do you like them?
Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2005: Augusta Ada Byron, who later became Countess of Lovelace, was born in 1815. She was a mathematical genius who invented a kind of computer programming system despite the fact that there were no computers in those times that could actually use it. What is your favorite computer program? Why do you like that one?
Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2005: The first international soccer match was played between England and Scotland in 1872. At that time, soccer was a new and not-widely-known sport. As you know, it has become popular all over the world. Can you think of any sport or game that is not widely known now, but may become popular in the future? What are three features a sport or game needs if it is to become popular?

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

OCTOBER, 2005

The character trait for October is Self-Discipline.

Positive self-control of one's words, actions, impulses, and desires
Perseverance

Monday, Oct. 3, 2005: James Herriot, author of All Creatures Great and Small and several other books about his life as a vet in rural Britain, was born in 1916. Would you like a job working with animals? What kind of animals are your favorites? Why do you like them?
Tuesday, Oct. 4, 2005: In 1959, human beings got their first glimpse of the back side of the moon, thanks to the Soviet Luna 3 spacecraft, who took pictures of it and transmitted them back. If you could visit the moon, what would you like to do there?
Wednesday, Oct. 5, 2005: In 1989, the Dalai Lama, head of Tibetan Buddhism, won the Nobel Peace prize. He once said, "Of you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion." What do you think he meant by that?
Thursday, Oct. 6, 2005: Alfred, Lord Tennyson, English poet, was born in 1809. Here is a poem he wrote:

The Eagle

He clasps the crag with crooked hands;
Close to the sun in lonely lands,
Ringed with the azure world, he stands.

The wrinkled sea beneath him crawls;
He watches from his mountain walls,
And like a thunderbolt he falls.

Imagine the eagle Lord Tennyson describes. What in the poem helps you to get a clear picture of it?

Friday, Oct. 7, 2005: In 1922, the World Series became the first sporting championship to be broadcast by more than one station at the same time. People often like to watch some sports they do not play. What sports that you do not play do you like to watch? What do you like to do while you watch?

Monday, Oct. 10, 2005: In 1961, the entire population of the island of Tristan in the Atlantic had to be evacuated because of the eruption of the volcano that makes up most of the island. In recent weeks, many other people have had to be evacuated because of natural disasters. If you were told that you might have to be evacuated, what would you do to get ready?
Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2005: H.J. Heinz was born in 1844. He became wealthy selling bottled condiments, especially ketchup. Some people prefer ketchup, some mustard, and some salsa or some other condiment. Which do you prefer? What foods do you like with them?
Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2005: Shooting began on the film The Wizard of Oz, which is still often shown on TV. Several other old movies are still popular either on TV, VCR, or DVD. What is your favorite old move? What part of it is your favorite?
Thursday, Oct. 13, 2005: Mary Ludwig Hays was born in 1754. During the Revolutionary War Battle of Monmouth. she brought pitchers of water to the men firing cannon for the Americans. When her husband, one of the gunners, was injured, she took his place loading and firing a cannon. She became known as Molly Pitcher, one of the few female fighters of that war. What hero of American history is your favorite? What do you admire about that person?
Friday, Oct. 14, 2005: In 1899, a popular magazine predicted that cars would never become more popular than bicycles because of their cost and complexity. How would your life be different if everyone only had bicycles to ride?

Monday, Oct. 17, 2005: In 1885, the Bessemer furnace was patented. It was the first furnace that allowed steel to be made quickly and cheaply. Think of all the things you use that are made of steel. What would be the one that would be hardest to do without? Why that one?
Tuesday, Oct. 18, 2005: In 1867, the United States formally took over Alaska from Russia, who had sold it to the U.S. If you could visit Alaska, what would you like to see there?
Wednesday, Oct. 19, 2005: Heavyweight boxing champion Evander Holyfield was born in 1962. He once said, "It is not the size of a man but the size of his heart that matters." What do you think he meant by that?
Thursday, Oct. 20, 2005: In 1956, a German doctor, Hannes Lindemann, began his successful attempt to cross the Atlantic Ocean in a kayak. The trip took 76 days. The kayak was only 17 feet long, and had to carry all the supplies Lindemann needed for the entire journey. What are three problems a person trying such a trip would need to solve?
Friday, Oct. 21, 2005: Alfred Nobel, inventor of dynamite and founder of the Nobel Prizes, was born in 1833. The Nobel Prizes are given in a limited number of fields, which the founder thought important. If you were going to set up a prize with your name on it, what would you want the prize to be given for? Why?

Monday, Oct. 24, 2005: Robert Koch was born in 1882. Koch discovered the bacteria that caused tuberculosis. His work went far to prove that communicable diseases were spread by microbes. What are four things people can do to reduce the spread of diseases? Make a poster about one of them.
Tuesday, Oct. 25, 2005: The famous artist Pablo Picasso was born in Spain in 1881. He once said, "I am always doing things I can't, that's how I get to do them." What do you think he meant by that?
Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2005: This is the birthday of the washing machine. The first one was patented in 1858 by Hamilton Smith, and worked by turning a crank by hand. Later an electric motor did the turning. How would your life be different if you had to wash all your clothes by hand?
Thursday, Oct. 27, 2005: John Cleese, comic actor with Monty Python's Flying Circus, was born in 1939. He said, "He who laughs most, learns best." What do you think he meant by that? Do you agree with him?
Friday, Oct. 28, 2005: The Statue of Liberty was formally dedicated in 1886. It was given to the U.S. by France as a present for the centennial of the Declaration of Independence, but it took many years to raise the money to built its pedestal and assemble it. If the United States wanted to give a return present to France, what would be something appropriate?

Monday, Oct. 31, 2005: Juliet Gordon Low, who founded the Girl Scouts of America, was born in 1860. The Girl Scouts is one of many organizations for young people. Which organizations do you belong to? Why do you belong to that one? If you don't belong to any of them, which one do you think might be the most interesting to join?

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

SEPTEMBER, 2005

The character trait for September is RESPECT.

Self-respect
Respect for others and their ideas
High regard for other people, property, self, and country
Value of people as human beings

Thursday, Sept. 1, 2005: Phillis Wheatley, an African-American slave living in Boston had her first book of poetry published in London in 1773. She was the first American poet to become well known in English literary society. She earned enough money from her poetry to purchase her freedom. Here is a verse from one of her poems:

Hail, smiling morn, that from the orient main
Ascending dost adorn the heav'nly plain!
So rich, so various are thy beauteous dyes,
That spread through all the circuit of the skies,
That, full of thee, my soul in rapture soars,
And thy great God, the cause of all adores.

From "Thoughts on the WORKS of PROVIDENCE" in Poems on Various Subjects, by Phillis Wheatley, published in 1773. (This kind of very wordy, complex poetry was popular at that time.) What kind of poetry do you like? Tell about a poem you like, or write a poem about yourself or your friends.

Friday, Sept. 2, 2005: In 490 BC, the Greeks defeated a Persian invading army at Marathon. Pheiddipides, a young Greek runner, ran all the way from the battlefield back to the city of Athens to bring the good news, a distance of 26 miles. This was the beginning of the race known as the Marathon. Racing on foot, on skates, on bicycles, on motorcycles, in cars, on boats, and even in aircraft is very popular. What kind of racing do you like to do, or watch, or learn about?

Monday, Sept. 5, 2005: Actress Raquel Welch was born in 1940. She once said, "You can't fake listening. It shows." Have you ever seen anyone fake listening or paying attention. How could you tell they were faking?
Tuesday, Sept. 6, 2005: The first tank got its test drive today in Great Britain in 1915. It was thought up and built on the orders of Winston Churchill, the political leader of the British navy. He tried to get the army to do it, but the generals weren't interested until he was able to show them it worked at the Battle of the Somme, in France. Have you ever had a good idea that people wouldn't listen to? How did it make you feel? What did you do to try to convince them?
Wednesday, Sept. 7, 2005: Bishop Desmond Tutu became the first black person to become head of the South African Anglican Church in 1986. He said, "A person is a person because he recognizes others as persons." How do you show that you recognize others as persons?
Thursday, Sept. 8, 2005: A British fleet commanded by the Duke of York captured the city of New Amsterdam from the Dutch. It was renamed New York, in honor of the victor. Suppose the British had lost and the city had remained Dutch. How might life in the United States have been different if its largest city spoke a different language?
Friday, Sept. 9, 2005: The first long distance car race took place in 1901. It ran from New York City to Buffalo, NY. The average speed of the winner was 15 miles an hour. Part of the reason the race was so slow what that there were almost no paved roads outside of large towns in 1901. How would your life be different if very few roads were paved?

Monday, Sept. 12, 2005: In 1940, four teenagers exploring a cave near Lascaux, France found a series of paintings on the cave walls that were made by cave people living 15,000 to 17,000 years before. Some people still live in caves--by choice. What are some advantages and disadvantages of living in a cave?
Tuesday, Sept 13, 2005: In 1847, Milton Hershey founded the candy company that bears his name. Many people say that some American children eat too much candy, and are getting fat. What are some things people like to eat as snacks that won't make you fat?
Wednesday, Sept. 14, 2005: In 1716, the first American lighthouse started working. The Boston Light, on Little Brewster Island, marks the entrance to Boston Harbor. Most lighthouses are located in remote, lonely locations. How would you like to live in a lighthouse keeper's cottage? What would be some good things, and some bad things, about living there?
Thursday, Sept. 15, 2005: The first licensed radio station was issued to WBZ in Boston, in 1921. What is your favorite radio station? Why do you like it?
Friday, Sept. 16, 2005: At this time of year, the Japanese celebrate Yabwasame, archery on horseback. This is considered one of the most difficult of all the martial arts. Modern soldiers no longer use this skill, but many Japanese still practice it. Do you know anyone who practices an old-fashioned skill, such as quilting, woodcarving by hand, or archery? Why do you think they like to do these things?

Monday, Sept. 19, 2005: In 1796, George Washington made his farewell address, a letter of advice to Americans about their duties and problems in their new nation. If you were to write a letter about the problems the students in your class will face in the future, what three pieces of advice would you give them?
Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2005: Actress Sophia Loren was born in 1934. She said, "Mistakes are part of the dues one pays for a full life." What do you think she meant by this?
Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2005: Bill Murray, comedian and actor, was born in 1950. He starred in Groundhog Day, a film about a man who experiences the same day over and over again. Have you ever wanted to experience the same day all over again? What day would you like? Why that day?
Thursday, Sept. 22. 2005: In 1959, the first baby gorilla born in captivity was born in the Basel, Switzerland, zoo. Gorillas and many other animals are becoming rare in their own homelands. Some naturalists suggest that these animals be released in the wild in new areas. Are there some rare animals you would like to see released in your area? Which ones? What are some problems those animals might face in the wild in your area?
Friday, Sept, 23, 2005: In 1805, the Lewis and Clark expedition finally arrived back to St. Louis after 2 years of exploring. If someone you knew had gone on a long and difficult journey and finally gotten back, how would you celebrate their return?

Monday, Sept. 26, 2006: In 1934, the ocean liner Queen Mary was launched by Queen Mary (of course) in Scotland. The builders named it to thank the British government for financial help in building the ship during the Depression. If you were in charge of naming a huge ship, what would you name it? Why that name?
Tuesday, Sept. 27, 2005: Marvin Lee Aday was born in 1947. He became famous as the singer Meatloaf. If you had to choose a strange name so you could become famous, as Marvin did, what name would you choose? Why that name?
Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2005: In 1865, Elizabeth Garrett Anderson became the first woman to get a license to practice medicine in Great Britain. She later became the first elected woman mayor in Britain. If you could become mayor of a city, which city would you choose? What would be your goal as mayor?
Thursday, Sept. 29, 2005: In 1930, the first movie of the famous horror novel Dracula began shooting. It started Bela Lugosi, who was able to terrify as Dracula without special makeup. Do you like scary stories? What is the scariest story you have read or seen as a movie or TV program? What part was the scariest?
Friday, Sept. 30, 2005: Louisa May Alcott's Little Women was published in 1868. Her story told about life in a family where the father was away during the Civil War. Many students today have parents away at war today. What are some ways you and your friends can help those students feel less lonely?

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

AUGUST, 2005

The character trait for August is HOPE:

Determination to work for the best
Refusal to give in to despair
Willingness to look for the best in people and situations

Monday, Aug. 1, 2005: Joseph Priestley of England discovered oxygen in 1774. Chemistry was Priestley's hobby; he made his living as a minister. He is only one of many people who have become more famous for his hobby than for his work. What is your favorite hobby? What are some things about it that you enjoy?
Tuesday, Aug. 2, 2005: The city of Los Angeles was named on this day in 1769. If you started a city, what would you name it? Why that name?
Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2005: Mystery writer P.D. James was born in 1920. She once said, "The greatest mystery of all is the human heart." What do you think she meant by that?
Thursday, Aug. 4, 2005: Louis Armstrong, considered the greatest jazz trumpet player of all time, was born in 1901. What instrument is your favorite to listen to? Why that one?
Friday, Aug. 5, 2005: Ferdinand Porsche begins working on the cars that bears his name in 1947. He designed the original Volkswagen. Describe or draw a car you would like to own.

Monday, Aug. 8, 2005: Today is the annual Star Festival in Korea. Some people like to study the science of astronomy, others enjoy reading about the mythology of the stars and constellations. Which would you prefer to study? What are some things you would like to learn?
Tuesday, Aug. 9, 2005: The Sistine Chapel was first used in 1483. It is decorated by wonderful murals on the ceiling by Michelangelo. He had to work on them for years, painting over his head. Describe the most beautiful room you have ever seen.
Wednesday, Aug. 10, 2005: Happy birthday, Smithsonian Institution! The law creating it was passed on 1846, inspired by a gift to the United States by James Smithson, an English scientist. It is the world's largest museum complex, holding everything from art to spacecraft. What famous museum exhibit would you like to see? It does not have to be in the Smithsonian.
Thursday, Aug. 11, 2005: The inventor of the sport of gymnastics, Friedrich Ludwig Jahn was born in 1778. Gymnastics is considered a "minor" sport, since it is not as popular as basketball or football. There are many minor sports. Which minor sport do you play, like to watch, or think interesting? Tell why you chose that sport.
Friday, Aug. 12, 2004: The first patent for an accordion was issued in 1856. Accordions are used in many kinds of music, especially dance music. What kind of music do you like to dance to? What are some of you favorite dance tunes? (If you don't dance, what kind do you like to listen to?)

Monday, Aug. 15. 2005: In 1890, Henry Ford resigned from the electric company to work full-time on his ideas for a new kind of car. He once said, "If you think you can do a thing or think you can't do a thing, you're right." What do you think he meant by that?
Tuesday, Aug. 16, 2005: Edwin Prescott patented the first roller coaster in 1898. What kind of amusement ride do you like best? Why do you like it?
Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2005: In 1807, the Clermont, the first successful commercial steamship began sailing on a regular schedule between New York City and Albany, NY. Before then, trips by boat could not be scheduled exactly, because they depended on wind, rowers, or currents. How would your life be different if you could not schedule trips regularly? Think of at least three ways.
Thursday, Aug. 18, 2005: In 1902, Harry O'Hagen made the first unassisted triple play in the history of baseball. What is the most exciting sports play you have seen either in person or on television?
Friday, Aug. 19, 2005: In 1839, Louis Daguerre invented the first method for taking photographs. Each picture took several minutes to take, so people had to wear clamps to hold their heads still, and did not smile, so their faces would not be blurry. Before that, people paid artist to do drawings of themselves and their families. How would you like to make your living as a artist? What kind of art would you like to do?

Monday, Aug. 22, 2005: King George I sailed up the Thames River in 1715 to visit Oxford University. To entertain the king while he was sailing, George Friedrich Handel composed a musical suite called the "Water Music" that is still popular today with people who like classical music. What do you like to listen to while you are traveling? Name some of your favorite artists or songs.
Tuesday, Aug, 23, 2005: Booker T. Washington, African-American educator and organizer, once said, "Character is power." What do you think he meant by that?
Wednesday, Aug. 24, 2005: Today is National Waffle Day. The waffle iron was patented by Cornelius Swartout in 1869. Dream up the most delicious waffle dish you can think of. Describe how it is made and what you think it tastes like.
Thursday, Aug. 25, 2005: Today is the Feast Day of Saint Genesius, patron saint of actors. Who is your favorite actor? What was his or her best role?
Friday, Aug. 26, 2005: The first public school kindergarten was approved in 1873 in St. Louis, MO. What was your favorite activity in kindergarten?

Monday, Aug, 29, 2005: The first motorcycle was patented in 1885 by Gottlieb Daimler, the co-founder of the Mercedes car company. Motorcycles, four-wheelers, and jet-skis are popular motorized recreational vehicles. If you could have only one of those, which would you choose? Why that one?
Tuesday, Aug. 30, 2005: To protect its dwindling elephant herds, Kenya banned trade in ivory in 1973, a ban that was subsequently extended to the entire world. As a result, the numbers of elephants has now grown so great that they are damaging African habitat by overgrazing. What do you think the government of Kenya or other African countries should do about the excess elephants?
Wednesday, Aug. 31, 2005: In 1903, the first trip all the way across the United States, from San Francisco to New York City was completed in fifty-four days. If you were planning a trip by car that would take several days, where would you like to go? Why that place?

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

JUNE, 2005

The character trait for June is CHARITY.

Lovingkindness
Benevolence
Concern for the well-being of others

Wednesday, June 1, 2005: In 1843, Sojourner Truth begins working as a conductor on the Underground Railroad. An escaped slave, she provided information about the Railroad to Harriet Beecher Stowe, who used it in Uncle Tom's Cabin. After the Civil War, Sojourner Truth campaigned for equal rights for freed slaves and for the right of women to vote. If you could interview Sojourner Truth about her life, what are three questions you would ask her? Why those questions?
Thursday, June 2, 2005: President Grover Cleveland married Frances Folsom in 1886, becoming the first President to marry while in office. The new Mrs. Cleveland was 19 years younger than her husband. She was the youngest First Lady in history, and was wildly popular for her kindness and charm. The couple had two children and remained happily married until he died in 1908. Describe the prettiest or most interesting wedding you have attended or heard about.
Friday, June 3, 2005: In 1800, President John Adams moved into the still-unfinished White House. The Capitol building had only been started, there were few other public buildings, and most of the land of Washington, D.C., was still covered with forest. What are some problems you might have if you moved into a brand-new house in a brand-new neighborhood?

Monday, June 6, 2005: In 1755, Nathan Hale was born. A schoolteacher who joined George Washington's Continental Army, he volunteered to try to find out what the British army was planning to do in New York City. He was captured and sentenced to be hanged as a spy. His last words were, "I regret that I have but one life to lose for my country." Being a spy is dangerous work. Make a list of dangerous jobs, and write about what makes each one dangerous.
Tuesday, June 7, 2005: In 1954, Ford Motor Company unveiled a new model, the Edsel. Although a well-built car, its unusual styling made it a target of jokes, and it never sold well. It was often called "a Mercury sucking a lemon" because of its oval-shaped grill. What are some products you see that look funny or silly to you? Make a list and rate them, then compare your list with your classmates.
Wednesday, June 8, 2005: In 2002, Serena and Venus Williams became the first sisters ever to end up ranked one and two in women's tennis for the year. What is an activity that you like to do with your brothers or sisters. If you don't have any brothers or sisters, what is an activity you like to do with your friends?
Thursday, June 9, 2005: Charles Hires begins to bottle and sell root beer, the first commercially successful soft drink, in 1869. Many people think that soft drinks should not be sold in school because they are bad for the teeth of young people and cause obesity. Write a paragraph about how you feel about selling soft drinks in school.
Friday, June 10, 2005: In 1752, Ben Franklin flew a kite in a thunderstorm and proved that lightning and electricity were the same thing. Today is Kite Day. Describe or draw a fabulous kite.

Monday, June 13, 2005: The famous Chinese philosopher Confucius said, "When an ordinary person makes a mistake, he apologizes in words. When a superior person makes a mistake, he apologizes by actions." What do you think Confucius meant by that? How can you apologize by actions?
Tuesday, June 14, 2005: In 1922, President Harding became the first American President to be heard on the radio when he made a speech dedicating a memorial to Francis Scott Key, the writer of the words of "The Star-Spangled Banner." Before this, few American had ever heard a President speak. How important do you think it is to see a candidate on television or hear him or her on the radio before you vote? Which is more important: what you see, what you hear, or what you read about the candidates?
Wednesday, June 15, 2005: The Great Smoky Mountains National Park was dedicated in 1934. It is the most-visited American national park. List four national parks you would like to visit and rank them from first to last in the order you would like to visit them. Tell why you chose those parks, and that order.
Thursday, June 16, 2005: Katherine Graham, publisher of the Washington Post newspaper for many years, was born in 1917. At one time, Ms Graham was considered the most powerful woman in America because of the influence of her newspaper. Today, many people prefer to get their news from other sources than newspapers. Where do you get most of your news: newspapers, magazines, television, radio, or the internet? Why do you prefer to get your news that way?
Friday, June 17, 2005: This is the second annual World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought. One of the greatest problems facing many people in the world is the shortage of pure water for drinking and for crops. What are some things you can do to prevent waste of water? Make a poster against water waste.

Monday, June 20, 2005: Famous guitarist Chet Atkins was born in 1926. His books on how to play the guitar were among the most popular music books ever published, and are still used. Who is your favorite instrumental player (not singer)? Why do you like that player?
Tuesday, June 21, 2005: In 1893, the first Ferris wheel, designed by engineer Charles Ferris, opens at the World Columbian Exposition in Chicago, Illinois. What is your favorite amusement park or fair ride? Tell what it feels like to ride it.
Wednesday, June 22. 2005: In 1944, President Franklin Roosevelt signed the law known as the G.I. Bill of Rights, which gives every American veteran money for education. Many Americans still join the military to get money for their education. Why do you think so many people believe education is so important? List 5 reasons.
Thursday, June 23, 2005: In 1934, William Bayly was convicted of murder based on tiny particles of remains found after he cremated the body of his victim, Sam Lakey. He was the first person convicted of murder even though the body of the victim had not been found, marking a major advance in forensic medicine. There are now many TV shows about forensic medicine. Some people like them, others find them gory or disgusting. How do you feel about them? Defend your opinion.
Friday, June 24, 2005: Read the following poem by Mother Theresa of Calcutta and briefly state what you think it means:
People are often unreasonable, illogical, and self-centered...
Forgive them anyway.

If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish ulterior
motives...
Be kind anyway.

If you are successful, you will win some false friends and some
true enemies...
Succeed anyway.

If you are honest and frank, people may cheat you...
Be honest and frank anyway.

What you may spend years building, someone may destroy
overnight...
Build anyway.

If you find serenity and happiness, people may be jealous...
Be happy anyway.

The good you do today, people will often forget tomorrow...
Do good anyway.

Give the world the best you have, and it may never be enough...
Give the world the best you have anyway.

You see, in the final analysis, it's all between you and God...
It was never between you and them.

Monday, June 27, 2005: Helen Keller, who became a famous author even though she was both blind and deaf, was born in 1880. She once said, "I long to accomplish a great and noble task; but it is my chief duty to accomplish small tasks as if they were great and noble." What did she mean by this?
Tuesday, June 28, 2005: In 1820, scientists proved that the tomato itself was not poisonous (although every other part of the tomato plant is). Several scientists demonstrate their confidence in their experiments by publicly eating tomatoes. Tomatoes are now among the world's most popular vegetables. List 5 ways you like to eat tomatoes. (If you don't like tomatoes, or are allergic to them, tell what your favorite vegetable is, and list 5 ways you like to eat it.)
Wednesday, June 29, 2005: Boeing, the world's largest manufacturer of aircraft, was founded in 1916. Some people like to ride big jetliners, others prefer small private planes, and still others like to ride helicopters. If you could take a trip on one of these aircraft, which one would you choose? Why that one?
Thursday, June 30, 2005: Lena Horne, famous African-American jazz singer and actress, was born in 1917. She once said, "It's not the load that breaks you down, it's the way you carry it." What do you think she meant by that?

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

MAY, 2005

The character trait for May is TEMPERANCE.

Appropriate reactions to events in our lives
Moderation
Avoidance of extremes

Monday, May 2, 2005: In 1859, Jerome K. Jerome was born. He was the author of Three Men in a Boat, the story of a trip he and two friends made down the rivers and canals of England in a small rowboat. His book helped to make the idea of camping out for fun popular. Do you like to camp out on your vacation. Give three reasons you either like or dislike camping out. (If you have never done it, tell three reasons you would or would not like to try it.)
Tuesday, May 3, 2005: Dodie Smith, who wrote 101 Dalmations, was born in 1896. What is your favorite breed of dog? Why do you prefer that breed. (If you don't like dogs, give reasons you prefer some other pet.)
Wednesday, May 4, 2005: In 1959, the first Grammy Awards were given for recording artists. In your opinion, what person or group should win the Grammy for the best popular song. Defend your choice.
Thursday, May 5, 2005: Ann B. Davis, who played Alice the housekeeper in The Brady Bunch, was born in 1926. Is it better to have lots of brothers and sisters, only a few, or to be an only child? Give two reasons for your choice.
Friday, May 6. 2005: Orson Wells, writer, actor, and producer, was born in 1915. He was very fat. He once said, "My doctor told me to stop having dinners for four, unless there were three other people there." What are five things you can snack on that will not make you fat? Which one of them do you like to snack on?

Monday, May 9. 2005: Archeologist Howard Carter, co-discoverer of the tomb of the boy Pharaoh Tutankhamen (King Tut) was born in 1874. Archeology is a fascinating subject, but being an archeologist requires great patience. Name 4 situations in your life that have required patience (or might require it in the future). What can you do to help you learn to be patient?
Tuesday, May 10, 1004: Almost all mother skunks give birth this day every spring, or within a few hours before or after. How do you think our celebrations of birthdays would change if everyone was born on the same day every year? Tell three ways.
Wednesday, May 11, 2005: Today is the birthday of CARE (Cooperative for American Relief Everywhere), an American charity that seeks to send food, medicine, and other emergency supplies to people who are victims of disasters. It began its work in 1946. Think of the many organizations that help people in your community and in the world. List as many of them as you can.
Thursday, May 12, 2005: Today is World Nurse Day, in honor of Florence Nightingale, who organized the first regular system of training and certifying nurses. She was born in 1820, and became famous for going out onto battlefields on the night after the battle carrying a lamp and her medical supplies to take care of the wounded. What are the three most important qualities a good nurse must have? Why did you choose those qualities?
Friday, May 13, 2005: English settlers land in Virginia and found Jamestown in 1607. Imagine that you were among the first settlers in Jamestown. Make a list of the 8 most important things you would need to carry with you from England.

Monday, May 16, 2005: In 1869, the first professional sports team in the United States, the Cincinnati Red Stockings, began playing baseball. Which is your favorite professional sport? What are three things about that sport that you like?
Tuesday, May 17, 2005: This is Be Kind to Animals Week. The first one was proclaimed in 1913. Name two useful animals that people are seldom kind to. Why are they useful?
Wednesday, May 18. 2005: In 1852, the first law requiring that children attend school was passed. Some people say that children should not be required to go to school. Others say that children with no education are likely to have a very hard life. How do you feel about this? Write at least 4 sentences giving reasons for your opinion.
Thursday, May 19, 2005: Malcolm X, Black nationalist and civil rights leader, was born in 1925. He once said, "if we don't stand for something, we may fall for anything." What do you think he meant by that?
Friday, May 20, 2005: In 1932, Amelia Earhart began her flight across the Atlantic Ocean, becoming the first woman to fly the Atlantic solo. She once said, "It is far easier to start something than to finish it." What are some things you have started but not finished? What caused you to not finish them?

Monday, May 23, 2005: Tonight is a full moon. The full moon in May is sometimes called the Flower Moon because so many flowers are blooming at this time. What kind of flowers are blooming in your area? Describe a flower garden you have seen.
Tuesday, May 24, 2005: In 1976, supersonic air travel between Britain and France began using a new plane, the Concorde. Many people liked the new plane, which cut travel time in half. Other people hated it because of the sonic boom people heard when it passed overhead (people inside the plane could not hear the sonic boom). They called the boom, noise pollution. Name three sources of noise pollution that annoy you or people you know. What can you do to avoid annoying people with your noise?
Wednesday, May 25, 2005: Ralph Waldo Emerson, famous American poet and essayist, was born in 1803. He wrote, "A hero is no braver than an ordinary man, but he is braver five minutes longer." What do you think he meant by that?
Thursday, May 26, 2005: The novel Dracula was published in 1897. Many people like horror stories about vampires, werewolves, and monsters. What is your favorite horror story character? Why do you like that character?
Friday, May 27, 2005: In 1909, Alva J. Fisher patented the first electric washing machine. Before that, washing had to be done by hand or in a machine with a crank you turned by hand. The washing machine is only one of the many work-saving machines we have today, such as dishwashers, vacuums, microwaves, dryers, mixers, and many others. Which work-saving machine do you think would be the hardest to give up? Why that machine?

Monday, May 30, 2005: Mel Blanc was born in 1908. He provided the voices for Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Elmer Fudd, and many other Looney Tunes characters. Which is your favorite cartoon character? Why do you like that one?
Tuesday, May 31, 2005: Clint Eastwood was born in 1930. He starred in or directed many action movies. What movie actor is your favorite? Why do you like him or her?

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

APRIL, 2005

The character trait for April is TRUSTWORTHINESS:

Reliability

Dependability

Being worthy of confidence

Friday, Apr. 1, 2005: In 1895, the world ended, all living things died, the oceans boiled, and the planet melted in a great explosion of the sun. APRIL FOOL! (As if you couldn't guess!) What is the funniest April Fool joke you have ever heard about or can invent?

Monday, Apr. 4, 2005: In 1828, Casparus van Wooden invented chocolate milk powder in Holland. What is your favorite drink with meals? Make up a slogan that will encourage others to drink your favorite drink.
Tuesday, Apr. 5, 2005: In 1753, the British parliament voted money to open a public museum, the first one since ancient times. Some people love museums, but others think they are a waste of the taxpayer's money. What do you think of spending tax money to run museums? Defend your opinion.
Wednesday, Apr. 6, 2005: Mahatma Gandhi, India's leader in its struggle for independence, said, "Patience is bitter, but its fruit is sweet." What do you think he meant by that?
Thursday, Apr. 7, 2005: Walter Winchell, one of the first popular gossip columnists was born in 1897. He said, "I usually get my stuff from people who promised somebody else that they would keep it a secret." How would you react if a friend of yours spread your secrets around?
Friday, Apr. 8, 2005: In 1838, the Great Western, the first ship able to carry cargo and passengers across the Atlantic entirely by steam power began her maiden voyage. If you could sail anywhere on a ship, where would you go? Who would you take with you? Give reasons for your choices.

Monday, Apr. 11, 2005: In 1944, German-born actress Marlene Dietrich, who had become an American citizen in 1939, began giving shows to American troops and campaigning to sell US war bonds during World War II. She won the Medal of Freedom for her work against Hitler and the Nazis. How can young people today work against prejudice and hatred?
Tuesday, Apr. 12, 2005: In 1961, Soviet Cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin became the first human being to orbit the earth in a spacecraft. Gagarin, a pilot who refused to give up flying despite his fame, was killed testing a new plane in 1968. List 5 qualities you think a good astronaut would need to have. Which of them is the most important?
Wednesday, Apr. 13, 2005: Tiger Woods won his first major golf tournament in 1997. Thereafter, he went on to win all of golf's four major tournaments, the first person to do so in modern times. If you could interview Tiger Woods, what are three questions you would ask him?
Thursday, Apr. 14, 2005. Sarah Michelle Gellar, who played in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, was born in 1977. If you could act in a movie or TV show, which one would you choose? Why that one?
Friday, Apr. 15, 2005: in 1912, Mrs. Margaret Brown, wife of a wealthy gold miner, found herself on a lifeboat with 50 other people after the Titanic sank. When the people on the boat began to panic and almost caused it to turn over, she took a pistol out of her handbag, took over the boat, put everyone to work rowing to stay warm in the freezing cold, wrapped her fur coat around some young children, led songs and prayers, told funny stories, and kept everyone calm until rescue came. She was later given a gold medal for her heroism, and was nicknamed the Unsinkable Molly Brown. If you were in a dangerous and difficult situation, who do you know that you think would be a good leader to follow. Why that person?

Monday, Apr. 18, 2005: in 1858, it began raining in Chicago, IL. It continued to rain for 60 consecutive days. Several people reportedly went crazy from fear that the entire world would be flooded. If you had to stay in the house for 60 days because of bad weather, what are 5 problems you might have?
Tuesday, Apr. 19, 2005: The Alfred P. Murrah federal building was destroyed by a homemade bomb in 1994. It was set off by Timothy McVeigh, an American citizen. This was the worst terrorist act on American soil until Sept. 11, 2001. What can students and other citizens do to help prevent terrorism? How many ways can you think of?
Wednesday, Apr. 20, 2005: In 1841, Edgar Allan Poe published his short story "The Murders in the Rue Morgue," which is considered the first detective story in history. Who is your favorite author? Tell which stories by that author you like, and why you like them.
Thursday, Apr. 21, 2005: In 1994, astronomer Alexander Wolszczan announced that he had detected three planets orbiting a star in the constellation Virgo. They were the first planets outside the solar system to be discovered. If you were asked to write a short message to be sent to a planet around another star, what would you say?
Friday, Apr. 22, 2005: Henry L. Stimson, American leader during World War II, once said, "The only way to make a man trustworthy is to trust him." What do you think he meant by that?

Monday Apr. 25, 2005: Today is National Arbor Day, which is set aside to plant trees. Why do you think that the United States (and several other countries) have set aside special days to plant trees? Why are trees important?
Tuesday, Apr. 26, 2005: In 1777, 16-year-old American Patriot Sybil Ludington rode through the night warning her neighbors of a planned British attack on Danbury, CT, during the American Revolution. She never became as famous as Paul Revere, at least in part because it is so hard to find words that rhyme with Ludington. If you were asked to design a memorial to her, what would you plan. Describe or draw your memorial design.
Wednesday, Apr. 27, 2005: In 1995, the Global Positioning System (GPS) started working with the last of the satellites that make it possible was launched. What are some ways the GPS system has helped to make our world safer?
Thursday, Apr. 28, 2005: Explorer and naturalist Thor Heyerdahl set out to sail from South America across the Pacific to Polynesia, to show that ancient people could have traded that way. He traveled in a raft made of balsa wood, which he named Kon Tiki. 101 days later, he landed on a Polynesian island. Sailing on a raft can be fun. Where would you like to sail on a raft? Why there?
Friday, Apr. 29, 2005: In 1928, histologist Florence Rena Sabin became the first woman to be elected to the National Academy of Sciences. A histologist studies cells and how they work together to form tissues. Which branch of science do you find the most interesting. List 3 interesting facts from that branch of science.

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

MARCH, 2005

The character trait for this month is Citizenship:

Respect for law

Patriotism

Contributing to laws, policies, and human rights

Service to others

Tuesday, Mar. 1: In 1638, a group from Sweden set up a colony in what is now Delaware. They called it New Sweden. One permanent contribution they made to American culture was the building of houses out of whole logs, rather than cutting them into boards, making it much easier to build a shelter in the wilderness quickly. If you lived in the wilderness, far from stores, towns, or neighbors, what would be the thing you missed the most?
Wednesday, Mar. 2: In 1962, Wilt Chamberlain became the first player in the NBA to score 100 points in a single game. Suppose you were at an event where some kind of record was set. What would be some things you might to to celebrate the record?
Thursday, Mar. 3: Helen Keller, the deaf and blind woman who became a famous lecturer and author with the help of her teacher Anne Sullivan, once wrote, "We could never learn to be brave and patient if there were only joy in the world." What do you think she meant by that?
Friday, Mar. 4: John van der Heyden was born in 1637. He was a painter, but is more famous for inventing the first fire extinguisher. Does your family have a plan for what each person should do if your house catches on fire? If you do, describe your plan. If not, make a plan to show to your parents.

Monday, Mar. 7: The game of Monopoly was patented in 2005 by Charles Darrow. He lived in Atlantic City, and named the streets in his game for the streets of his home town. What is your favorite board game? Why do you like it?
Tuesday, Mar. 8: Today is the birthday of Kenneth Grahame, the author of The Wind in the Willows, in which Mr. Toad gets into a lot of trouble for driving too fast. Some people think that a person who drives too fast repeatedly should not only lose his driver's license, but have his car taken away and sold. What do you think of this idea?
Wednesday, Mar. 9: "All that is necessary for evil to triumph is for good people to do nothing." What do you think this means?
Thursday, Mar. 10: Martial arts movie star Chuck Norris was born in 1940. He was the first martial artist to become a famous movie actor. Some people think martial arts movies and television shows encourage young people to become violent. Do you agree? Why or why not?
Friday, Mar. 11: 1,900 years ago, paper was invented in China by Xai Lun. The year was 105 AD. How would your life be different if there was no paper, and the only thing you could write on was expensive stuff like parchment or papyrus?

Monday, Mar. 14: Famous scientist Albert Einstein was born in 1789. He once said, "If A equals success, then the formula is A equals X plus Y plus Z. X is work; Y is play. Z is keeping your mouth shut." Do you agree with him? If so, tell why. If not, tell your own formula for success.
Tuesday, Mar. 15: According to tradition, migrating turkey buzzards arrive in Hinckley, Ohio, every year on this date. The people of Hinckley have a huge celebration, and people come from all over the US to attend it. Write an advertisement or poem for Buzzard Day in Hinckley.
Wednesday, Mar. 16: Today is St. Urho Day in Finland. St. Urho didn't really exist, but was made up by a department store manager as an excuse to have a sale (and a party). It is said he chose today for his saint to get ahead of the Irish and St. Patrick's Day. He made up a story about St. Urho's holy chanting driving away the grasshoppers that threatened to ravage the wild grape vines of Finland. Since grapes have never grown wild in Finland, the story is way bogus. The Finns know it, but they celebrate the holiday anyway. A fake saint deserves some fake traditions to go with his holiday. Invent a tradition about how St. Urho's Day should be celebrated.
Thursday, Mar. 17: Shemp Howard, one of the original Three Stooges, was born in 1895. Some people love the Stooges, other people don't like them. How do you feel about them and the kind of comedy they do (called slapstick)?
Friday, Mar. 18: Novelist John Updike was born in 1932. He once wrote, "Dreams come true; without that possibility, nature would not incite us to have them." What do you think he meant by that?

Monday, Mar. 21: If you move to the United States from another country, it will take you seven years (at least) to become an American citizen. You will have to take and pass a test about American history, government, and laws. Some people think seven years is too long, others that it is too short. How long do you think it should take to become an American citizen? Give reasons for your answer.
Tuesday, Mar. 22: William Shatner, who played Captain Kirk on the original Star Trek programs, was born in 1931. If you could "boldly go" anywhere in outer space, where would you go? What would you hope to find, see, or do there?
Wednesday, Mar. 23: In 1806, the Lewis and Clark expedition left the Pacific coast and began its return journey to St. Louis. The trip to the Pacific had been over 2000 miles long, and they had walked most of the way. They would have to walk most of the way back. Imagine that you were part of the expedition. Tell how you think you would feel to be starting back after your long adventure.
Thursday, Mar. 24: Harry Houdini, magician and escape artist, was born in 1874. He once said, "My brain is the key that sets me free." What do you think he meant by that?
Friday, Mar. 25: In 1957, the Treaty of Rome was signed. It was the beginning of the movement to unify the many nations of Europe into one economic unit. Do you think the US and other countries should try to work together more, or leave each other alone to solve their own problems? Explain your answer.

Monday, Mar. 28: Country music singer Reba McEntire was born in 1955. Do you like country music? Why or why not?
Tuesday, Mar. 29: Sam Walton, the founder of Wal-Mart, was born in 1918. Some people like big stores; others like small stores. Which do you like? Why?
Wednesday, Mar. 30: Today is Doctor's Day. There are many kinds of doctors. If you were to become a doctor, in what kind of medicine would you specialize? Why that kind?
Thursday, Mar. 31: Rene Descartes, French mathematician who invented coordinate geometry was born 1596. One of the most brilliant people who ever lived, he also set a record for the smallest brain ever measured for an adult man (after he died, he willed his brain to science for study). What lesson do you think we can learn from this?

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

FEBRUARY, 2005

The character trait for February is COOPERATION

Respect for diversity
Teamwork within the home, school and community

Tuesday, Feb. 1, 2005: Happy birthday, United States Supreme Court. It first met in New York in 1790. What are three qualities a good judge or supreme court justice must have? Why those qualities?
Wednesday, Feb. 2, 2005: William Shakespeare's twins, Hamnet and Judith, were baptized in 1585. (Births were not recorded at that time, only baptisms.) If you were a twin, would you prefer to have a twin who was the same sex as you, or one who was not? Give reasons for your opinion. (If you are a twin, what is the main advantage, and the main disadvantage, of being one?)
Thursday, Feb. 3, 2005: In 1690, the colony of Massachusetts Bay issues the first paper money ever issued in what is now the United States. Suppose the United States decided to put new pictures on some of its paper money. What famous American whose picture is NOT now on money most deserves to have a picture on it? Defend your choice.
Friday, Feb. 4, 2004: Today is Setsubun (Bean Throwing Day) in Japan. To drive out evil spirits and prepare for spring, roasted beans are scattered around the house, temple, or shrine. While you scatter them, you chant, "Devils out, happiness in!" Then you collect one bean for every year of your age and eat it. So beans are good luck food in Japan. What is your good-luck food? Why do you think of that food as bringing good luck.

Monday, Feb. 7, 2005: In 1984, astronaut Bruce McCandless became the first human being to make a space walk without using a safety tether to attach him to his spaceship. Instead he used a rocket pack that he designed himself to move around and return to the ship. If the rocket pack had not worked, he would have never been able to return to his spaceship and would have died in space. Suppose you were asked to test a new and untried idea someone else had. Would you be willing to do it? Why or why not?
Tuesday, Feb. 8, 2005: John Ruskin was born in 1819. He was a writer on art and travel who was the first important critic who pointed out that the value of working to preserve historical buildings. If you could go anywhere in the world to see a famous building, where would you go and what would you see? Why does that building appeal to you?
Wednesday, Feb. 9, 2005: Today has two important holidays. It is Ash Wednesday for Christians, and the Lunar New Year for China and many other places with large numbers of people from China. What do you think a combined Ash Wednesday and New Year's celebration should look like?
Thursday, Feb. 10, 2005: Yesterday was the Chinese New Year; today is the Islamic New Year. Having a lot of holidays very close together can be both fun and confusing, especially if different people are celebrating different things, or on different days. List at least 3 problems this situation might cause in a country with large numbers of Christians, Muslims, and Chinese people, like the USA.
Friday, Feb. 11, 2005: After spending 27 years in prison, Nelson Mandela was released in 1990. He had been imprisoned for his opposition to the racist policies of the government of South Africa at the time, and later became the first black President of South Africa. After his release, he said, "There is nothing like returning to a place that remains unchanged to find the ways in which you yourself have changed." What do you think he meant by that?

Monday, Feb. 14, 2005: In 1896, Edward, Prince of Wales (he later became King Edward VII) became the first member of the British royal family to ride in a car. In those days, every car was built by hand, very likely to break down a lot, and many times more expensive than they are today. Suppose no way to build cheaper, more reliable cars had every been found? How would your life be different if only very rich people had cars?
Tuesday, Feb. 15, 2005: In 1758, mustard was first made in the United States by German settlers in Pennsylvania, who brought the recipe from Europe. Do you like mustard on certain foods? Which ones? If you don't like mustard, what condiment do you prefer?
Wednesday, Feb. 16, 2005: The Bee Gees won a Grammy award in 1979 for their album Saturday Night Fever. Some styles from that time are popular today, but others are not. What styles from today do you think will be popular in 25 years? Which ones will not be popular?
Thursday, Feb. 17, 2005: In 1801, the Presidential election was tied until today, when Thomas Jefferson defeated Aaron Burr to become our third President. Jefferson once said, "The fortune of our lives...depends on employing well the short period of our youth." What are some things you can do now to prepare yourself for a successful life?
Friday, Feb. 18, 2005: Dale Earnhardt died in a crash at the 2001 Daytona 500. What are some of the qualities that make a good race car driver?

Monday, Feb. 21, 2005: The Arrowbile, a car that can be converted into an airplane, was successfully test-flown in 1937. Several successful car-plane combinations have been tried, but none have sold well. Why do you think car-planes aren't popular?
Tuesday, Feb. 22, 2005: Heinrich Hertz was born in 1857. He was the first person to broadcast and receive radio waves, thus inventing the technology used for radio, television, cell phones, and all other broadcasts. The unit of frequency is named for him. If you could have only a radio, or a television, or a cell phone, but not have either of the others, which one would you choose? Why that one?
Wednesday, Feb. 23, 2005: The Tootsie Roll was invented in 1896 by Leo Hirshfield. What are four qualities you look for in a good kind of candy? (Hint: taste is one!)
Thursday, Feb. 24, 2005: Today five places adopted flags: Mexico in 1821, West Virginia in 1905, Maine and New Hampshire in 1909, and Estonia in 1918. Each flag uses colors and designs that symbolize the history or ideas of the people that use the flag. If you were to design a flag for your family, what colors and designs would you use? What would they symbolize?
Friday, Feb. 25, 2005: The first vacuum cleaner was patented by Hubert Booth in England in 1902. It was a huge machine, the size of a refrigerator, and was carried from house to house on a cart. People would pay to have the operators bring it to the door and use a very long hose to vacuum their houses. It took two people to operate. Cleaning up the house is a lot of work. What household job do you like the least? the most?

Monday, Feb. 28, 2005: Most of the people of Curiepe, Venezuela, make their living fishing for sardines. Every year on this day, they have a funeral for the sardines they have caught during the previous year. The funeral serves to remind them of the need to protect the sardines from overfishing and pollution. Describe another ceremony or celebration that would help to remind people of the need to take care of the natural world.

A Prompt a Day for

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

JANUARY, 2005

The character trait for January is INTEGRITY.

Monday, Jan. 3, 2005: In 1892, J.R.R. Tolkien, author of The Lord of the Rings, was born. Which character in this series is your favorite? Note: the character, not the actor. If you have not read the books or seen the movie, what is your favorite character in some other book? List 3 traits of this character that makes you like him.
Tuesday, Jan, 4, 2005: In 1984, Wayne Gretsky scored 8 points in one hockey game, a professional record. He once said, "You miss a hundred percent of the shots you never take." What do you think he meant by this?
Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2005: Work begins on the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, CA. It is painted red, not gold. What building or structure made by people do you think is the most beautiful? Why do you think so?
Thursday, Jan. 6, 2005: George and Martha Dandridge Custis Washington were married in 1759. What are five things a couple needs to have a good family life?
Friday, Jan. 7, 2005: In 1887, Thomas Stevens finishes the round-the-world bicycle trip he began in 1884. If you could ride your bicycle to a special place, where would you go?

Monday, Jan. 10, 2005: In 1968, the American spacecraftSurveyer 7 landed on the moon and began to send back pictures of its surface. Some people think that only machines should be sent into space because of the danger. Do you agree or disagree? Give 3 reasons for your answer.
Tuesday, Jan 11, 2005: In 1935, Amelia Earhart made the first solo flight between Hawaii and North America. She said, "Courage is the price that life asks for granting peace." Do you agree? Explain your asnwer?
Wednesday, Jan. 12, 2005: Jack London, author of The Call of the Wild, was born in 1876. Many of Jack London's stories were about dogs. What is your favorite dog story?
Thursday, Jan. 13, 2005: In 1928, the first television program was broadcast in the United States. The TVs of the time had 1and one half inch wide picture. Suppose TV screens had never become any bigger. How would your life be different? List at least 3 ways.
Friday, Jan. 14, 2005: In 1690, Johann Denner invented the clarinet. What instrument's music is your favorite? What is your favorite song or player of that instrument?

Monday, Jan. 17, 2005: In 1949, the first Volkswagen Beetle was shipped to the US from Germany. At the time it was considered a VERY odd-looking car. In your opinion, what is the oddest-looking car you know about? Would you like to have such a car? Why or why not?
Tuesday, Jan. 18, 2005: A.A. Milne, the author of the books about Winnie-the-Pooh, was born in 1882. Which of the characters in the Winnie-the-Pooh books is your favorite? Why do you like that one best?
Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2005: Marvin Gaye's hit "I Heard It Through the Grapevine" becomes number 1. Rumors can be very destructive. Why do you think some people make up and spread harmful stories about others? What can you do to avoid spreading rumors?
Thursday, Jan. 20, 2005: In 1942, top Nazi officials plan the Final Solution, the murder of Europe's Jews, at a conference in Wannsea, Germany. Some people think a memorial should be placed there to mourn those lost. Others think such a terrible thing should not be memorialized. How do you feel about this? Explain your answer.
Friday, Jan. 21, 2005: In 1933, William Wrigley III was born. He made a fortune making chewing gum and bought the Chicago Cubs, who still play in Wrigley Field. Many schools ban gum in the classroom. Do you agree with this rule? Give three reasons for your opinion.

Monday, Jan. 24, 2005: In 1984, the first Apple Macintosh computer went on sale for $2,495. How would your school be different if it had no computers? List 5 ways.
Tuesday, Jan. 25, 2005: In 1974: Dr. Christian Barnard performed the first successful human heart transplant. If you received a heart from someone who had died, how would you feel? What would you say to the person's family?
Wednesday, Jan, 26 2005: The world's largest diamond was discovered in 1905 and donated to the British king to keep it off the market so that the price of diamonds would not fall. What would you do if you found a huge and valuable jewel?
Thursday, Jan 27, 2005: In 1756, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born. People today call his music "classical," but it was the pop music of his time. Everyone listened to it, played it on instruments, and sang, whistled, or hummed it. What music that is popular today do you think will be considered classical in 200 years?
Friday, Jan. 28, 2005: Andrew Carnegie, who made millions manufacturing steel, set up a foundation to encourage knowledge and learning in 1902. His foundation helped to establish free public libraries in hundreds of American towns and cities. (Before Carnegie, most libraries charged a fee to get a library card.) What part of the library is your favorite?

Monday, Jan. 31, 2005: President Harry S Truman said, "I sit here [in the White House] all day trying to persuade people to do the things they ought to have sense enough to do without my persuading them." Why do you think so many people have to be persuaded to do the right thing?

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

DECEMBER, 2004

The character trait for this month is RESPONSIBILITY.

Wednesday, Dec. 1, 2004: Today is the annual Festival of Freedom and Democracy in Turkmenistan. If you were in charge of planning a ceremony for your school celebrating freedom and democracy, what are 5 things you would need to think about?
Thursday, Dec. 2, 2004: In 1784, George Washington nicknamed New York the Empire State. What would be a good new nickname for your state, province, or district? Defend your suggestion.
Friday, Dec. 3, 2004: Oberlin College opens in 1833 as the first coeducational college in the United States. Before Oberlin, there were colleges for men or women, but not for both at the same time. Would you prefer to go to a school with only one sex, or do you prefer coeducational schools? Give 4 reasons for your choice.

Monday, Dec. 6. 2004: In 1964, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City discovered that a beautiful bronze horse it had displayed as an antique from Greece was a forgery. Some people thought it should no longer be displayed, since it was a fake. Others thought it should still be displayed because it was so beautiful. How do you feel about it? Give reasons for your answer. Here is a link to a picture of the horse: bronze horse
Tuesday, Dec. 7, 2004: Many people complain about mess or litter in public places, but will not pick up any trash they did not drop. As a result, litter from careless people or scattered by accident builds up. What can you suggest to solve this problem?
Wednesday, Dec. 8, 2004: In 1977, the US banned the use of CFCs, chemicals that damaged the ozone layer. People had to find new chemicals that did the jobs they used CFCs for, including air conditioners. Suppose that they had not found any replacements and air conditioning had disappeared. How would your life be different if there were no air conditioners? Name 5 ways.
Thursday, Dec. 9, 2004: In 1977, the first virus attacked the internet. It forced the net to shut down; fortunately the net at that time was very small. What are three good things about the internet, and three bad things?
Friday, Dec. 10, 2004: Emily Dickinson was born in 1830. This poet was very shy, and most of her poems were only published after she died. Here is a poem by Emily Dickinson (punctuation modernized):

I ï¿½m nobody! Who are you?
Are you nobody, too?
Then there ï¿½s a pair of usï¿½donï¿½t tell!
They ï¿½d banish us, you know.

How dreary to be somebody!	5
How public, like a frog
To tell your name the livelong day
To an admiring bog!

What do you think she meant by saying that being somebody is dreary?

Monday, Dec. 13, 2004: In 1884: the first wagon train of settlers reached California. A wagon train could only go around 20 miles per day, so crossing the country in one was a very slow process. Suppose you were going to cross the country on a wagon trian. What are five things you would need to do before you started?
Tuesday, Dec. 14, 2004: In 1503, Nostradamus was born. He wrote down hundreds of short poems about things he predicted would happen, using symbols and metaphors only he understood. Many people have tried to figure out what he meant, and whether his predictions were right. Make three predictions about things you think might happen during your holiday break. When you get back to school after the holidays, see how many turned out to be true.
Wednesday, Dec. 15, 2004: Today is the annual Nut Day fair in Bastogne, Belgium. What is your favorite kind of nut? Make up a poem or paragraph abut your favorite.
Thursday, Dec. 16, 2004: The light on the Cape Hatteras lighthouse was first lit in 1870. How would you like to life in a lighthouse? Give reasons for your asnwer.
Friday, Dec. 17, 2004: Charles Dicken's A Christmas Carol was first published in 1843. What is your favorite story for this time of year? Why do you like it so much?

Monday, Dec. 20, 2004: In 1892, inflatable tires (pneumatic tires) were patented. They made riding in vehicles much more comfortable. Name 5 other inventions that have made your life more comfortable than those of people long ago.
Tuesday, Dec. 21, 2004: Today is the Winter Solstice, the longest night of the year in northern hemisphere. Many people like to play board games when it is too dark to play outside. What is your favorite board game? Tell why you like that one.

Happy holidays to all!

A Prompt A Day for

November, 2004

The character trait for November is CARING.

Monday, Nov. 1, 2004: November is Diabetes Awareness Month. Diabetes can be brought on by overweight, and can have serious effects on a person's health. What are some things you can do to prevent yourself from becoming overweight, or improve your health if you are overweight already?
Tuesday, Nov. 2, 2004: Daniel Boone was born in 1734. Daniel once said he was never lost, but once had been bewildered for three days. If you were lost, what would you do? Think of three things and tell why those are important.
Wednesday, Nov. 3, 2004: Today is the Feast of St. Hubert, who is the protector of dogs (among many other things). What is your favorite story about dogs or other pets? Why do you like it?
Thursday, Nov. 4, 2004: Will Rogers was born in 1879. He was a comedian and actor, who is famous for saying, "I never met a man I didn't like." Who is the friendliest person you know? How does that person show his or her friendliness?
Friday, Nov. 5, 2004: In 1895, George B. Selden got the first patent for an automobile. His design wasn't as good as some others, like Henry Ford, so no one drives a Selden today. Suppose you were going to make something to sell with your name on it. What would you make? Describe it, and how it would be different from other things of the same kind.

Monday, Nov. 8, 2004: In 1307, the Swiss began fighting for their independence from Austria. One of their early leaders was William Tell, who was forced by an Austrian tyrant to shoot an apple off his son's head with his bow. How would you feel if a member of your family was in danger? What would you do?
Tuesday, Nov. 9. 2004: In 1989, the Berlin Wall, that divided the city between free and communist sections. Berlin and Germany became one city and country, united in freedom. Many families that had been divided were reunited. Imagine that your community was divided in half by a wall right down the middle. How would your life change?
Wednesday, Nov. 10, 2004: Today is Hero Day in Indonesia. Who is your hero? Why did you choose that person as a hero? What do you admire about him or her?
Thursday, Nov. 11, 2004: In 1939, "God Bless America" was first presented. It is a favorite patriotic song among Americans. Some people think it should be the National Anthem of the United States because it is so much easier to sing. How do you feel about this? Do you prefer "The Star-Spangled Banner" or "God Bless America?" Why do you prefer that one?
Friday, Nov. 12, 2004: In 1975, the World Health Organization announced that smallpox had been completely eradicated among human beings. It is the first, and so far the only, major disease to be eliminated. What disease do you think should be eliminated next, if it were possible? Why that one?

Monday, Nov. 15, 2004: Today begins the annual elephant roundup in Sarin, Thailand. If there are no elephants to round up in your neighborhood, round up some elephant jokes instead. Make up a new one, or write one you already know. Here is one to get you started: How can you tell if there is an elephant under your bed? Your nose rubs against the ceiling.
Tuesday, Nov. 16, 2004: Today is International Tolerance Day. What are three things people in your class can do to show tolerance to people who are different?
Wednesday, Nov. 17, 2004: In 1855, Dr. David Livingstone, doctor and missionary, became the first European to see Victoria Falls in Africa. He named it for his queen. If you discovered a new natural wonder, what would you name it? Why that name?
Thursday, Nov. 18, 2004: In 1789, L.J.M. Daguerre was born in France. He invented the first practical way to make photographs. Describe a favorite photograph of yours.
Friday, Nov. 19, 2004: Ferdinand de Lesseps was born in 1805. He led effort that built the Suez Canal. He traveled all over the world, building many projects. What man-made project have you seen that you admire, such as a bridge, dam, monument, or building? What do you admire about it?

Monday, Nov. 22, 2004: Today is the feast of St. Cecilia. She is the patron of musicians and the makers of musical instruments. What is your favorite musical instrument? Who is your favorite musician who plays that instrument? Give reasons for your answers.
Tuesday, Nov. 23, 2004: Abigail Adams, wife of one President and mother of another, was born in 1744. Suppose you were the relative of a famous person from history. What famous person would you chose? What do you think life as a relative of that person would be like?
Wednesday, Nov. 24, 2004: This is Drum Month. Design an unusual drum.
Thursday, Nov. 25, 2004: Joe DiMaggio, the famous baseball player, was born in 1914. Joe loved baseball and made it his profession by practicing it every day from the time he was a young boy. What skill do you have that you would like to use to make a living? What are you doing to increase your skill?
Friday, Nov. 26, 2004: Tonight is a full moon. The American Indians called this moon the Moon When Deer Shed Their Antlers. The Indians used such names to remind them of things of great importance in their lives, and they used deer antlers to make many tools and utensils. What would be a practical name for this moon for modern people?

Monday, Nov. 29, 2004: Louisa May Alcott was born in 1832. She wrote Little Women, a story about her own family's life during the Civil War. Her father was gone for a long time, fighting in the war. Many families are having the same experience. What can your class do to help families that are separated by the current war?
Tuesday, Nov. 30, 2004: Winston Churchill, leader of the British people during their war against Hitler, was born in 1874. He said, "The chief end of all societies is the betterment of mankind through mutual kindness." What did he mean by this?

Have a happy Thanksgiving!

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

OCTOBER 2004

The Character Trait for October is SELF-DISCIPLINE.

Friday, Oct. 1, 2004: In 1972, the Van Gogh Museum opened in Amsterdam, Holland. Although he is famous now, during his lifetime, no one paid much attention to him, or bought his paintings. His family and friends were surprised when, after he died, he became famous and his paintings very valuable. Imagine that a relative of yours has suddenly become very famous. List 3 ways your life might change.

Monday, Oct. 4, 2004: Today is Children's Health Day. Make a poster or write a poem about something young people can do to keep themselves healthy.
Tuesday, Oct. 5, 2004: In 1962, Miss Janice Pepper married Mr. Francis Salt, becoming Mrs. Janice Pepper Salt. The Salt family enjoy their unusual name, but some people dislike the teasing and jokes such names often attract. If you had (or have) an unusual name, how would you feel about it?
Wednesday, Oct. 6, 2004: Today is the birthday of the movie. In 1889, Thomas Edison showed the first movie with his new motion picture projector. What story that has not been made into a movie would you like to see filmed? Why that story?
Thursday, Oct. 7, 2004: In 1919, the first airline, KLM Royal Dutch Airline, started flying. Suppose you had a ticket to fly to any one spot on the earth. Where would you go? What would you do?
Friday, Oct. 8, 2004: The Great Chicago Fire began in 1871. This week is National Fire Prevention Week as a reminder of this tragedy. List five things you can do to help prevent fires.

Monday, Oct. 11, 2004: Eleanor Roosevelt, First Lady and ambassador, was born in 1884. She once said, "No one can make you feel inferior without your consent." What do you think she meant by this?
Tuesday, Oct. 12, 2004: In 1917, the Lions International was founded. This civic club works to help the blind and vision-impaired. What are four things you can do to protect your vision?
Wednesday, Oct. 13, 2004: The General Motors (GM) Corporation was founded in 1916. Although Ford had made cars before this, GM was able to prosper by building larger, more comfortable cars. What is your favorite kind of car? Why do you like that kind?
Thursday, Oct. 14, 2004: William Penn, the founder of Pennsylvania, was born in 1644. He insisted on buying the land for his colony from the Indians, and paying them a fair price for it. Why do you think the other colonists did not do this?
Friday, Oct. 15, 2004: "Good habits are as easy to start as bad ones." What do you think this saying means for you?

Monday, Oct 18, 2004: In 1959, a Soviet spacecraft took the first pictures of the far side of the moon, which cannot be seen from the earth. Going into space requires years of careful training, as do many occupations. What are two occupations you might like to work in? What training do they require?
Tuesday, Oct. 19, 2004: Physician and writer Sir Thomas Browne was born in 1605. He wrote, "There is no road or ready way to virtue." What do you think he meant by that?
Wednesday, Oct. 20, 2004: In 1859, the Minerva Club, the first club exclusively for women, was organized in New Harmony, Indiana. Some people think that there should not be any organizations for just men or just women, others disagree. How do you feel about this? Give reasons for your opinion.
Thursday, Oct, 21, 2004: This is Trafalgar Day. In 1805, the British fleet led by Lord Nelson defeated the French Fleet, preventing Napoleon from invading Britain. Lord Nelson died during the battle. He was the great hero for the British of his time. Who is your hero? Why do you admire that person?
Friday, Oct. 22, 2004: The Raleigh Register, the first newspaper in North Carolina, started in 1799. Why are newspapers important in a town or district? Give three reasons.

Monday, Oct. 25, 2004: The British defeated the French at the Battle of Agincourt in 1455. Shakespeare has King Henry V say, "He who fights with me this day . . . is my brother." Why do you think people who go through hard times together feel close to each other?
Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2004: Jackie Coogan, one of the original Little Rascals, was born in 1914. He made a lot of money as a child actor, but his parents wasted it all before he grew up. What are four things you can do to prevent yourself from wasting your money?
Wednesday, Oct. 27, 2004: The invention of nylon was announced today by the Dupont Corporation. Nylon is now only one of the many kinds of man-made and natural cloth used to make clothing. Fashions in clothing change: what do you think the next big fad in clothing will be?
Thursday, Oct. 28, 2004: In 1636, Harvard College was founded. It is the oldest in the United States. Getting into college is an important goal for young people. What are some things you can begin to do now to prepare yourself to get into a college you like?
Friday, Oct. 29, 2004: The Judge, a famous comic magazine of the time, was founded in 1881. Tell or make up a new joke.

A Prompt A Day for

SEPTEMBER, 2004

The character trait for September is RESPECT.

Wednesday, Sept. 1, 2004: Today in 1939, World War II began, and in 1945, it ended (going by American time). Most of the nations that fought each other in World War II are now friends. What are some things people can do to make friends with other people they once disliked?
Thursday, Sept. 2, 2004: Today is Watermelon Day in Rocky Ford, Colorado. Many fruits and vegetables have special days in different places. Is there a food you think should NOT have a day to celebrate it? Why not?
Friday, Sept. 3, 2004: In 1856, Louis Sullivan, a famous American architect was born. He invented a new way of building tall buildings using steel, that allowed them to go very high but not have massively thick walls, so he is considered the inventor of the skyscraper. Imagine that you lived in a skyscraper (or perhaps you really do). How would your life be different from a person who lived in a regular house?

Monday, Sept. 6, 2004: In 1666, the Great Fire of London was finally put out. Much of the city had to be rebuilt. The king had a huge contest to see who could plan the most beautiful city. What are five things you think such a city should have? (In the end, the contest took so long that everyone just rebuilt most of London like it was to begin with while the king was waiting.)
Tuesday, Sept. 7, 2004: In 1502, Amerigo Vespucci returned to Europe after his first (and only) visit to the land Columbus thought was India. Vespucci had actually been to India, and knew Columbus was wrong. He wrote a book to prove his idea, so the new world was named for him, not Columbus (who never admitted that he was wrong, and died believing he had been to India). Was this fair? Defend your answer.
Wednesday, Sept. 8, 2004: Today is the birthday of the Pledge of Allegiance, which was first published in 1892. Find out what "allegiance" means (if you don't already know). How can you show your allegiance to your country, your family, or your community?
Thursday, Sept. 9, 2004: Today is Panda Day, marking the anniversary of the first baby panda born in captivity. If you could see one strange or unusual or rare animal, like the panda, which one would you choose to see? Why?
Friday, Sept. 10, 2004: "The only way to get respect is to give it." What does this proverb mean?

Monday, Sept. 13, 2004: Roald Dahl was born in 1916. He wrote Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and James and the Giant Peach. In his books, he often portrayed people he disliked, and imagined a horrible fate for them, but he gave them different, often very strange names. Invent a character with a strange name and write about his or her horrible fate. (You can imagine it is someone you dislike, but don't tell anyone.)
Tuesday, Sept. 14, 2004: In 1886, a group of stamp collectors formed the American Philatelic (fill uh TELL ik) Society to help popularize their hobby. The United States Postal Service accepts suggestions for new designs for stamps, although very few designs are accepted. What would be a good design for a new stamp? Draw or describe it.
Wednesday, Sept. 15, 2004: In 1856, Isambard Kingdom Brunel was born. He was a famous engineer and designed the first bridge ever made entirely from metal (it is still in use in England). Describe the longest or most unusual bridge you have ever crossed.
Thursday, Sept. 16, 2004: In 1908, Clark University began teaching classes in Esperanto, an entirely made-up language designed to be easy to learn. Espranto is still used, but has never become popular. What are four of the problems a person making up an entirely new language might have?
Friday, Sept. 17, 2004: Today is the beginning of Clownfest in Seaside Heights, NJ, when clowns from all over the world come and perform and teach each other new tricks. Every clown is supposed to have his or her own special clown-face makeup design. Make up a clown face design for yourself. Describe or draw it.

Monday, Sept. 20, 2004: "The greatest rule of manners is, first to respect others, then to respect time." How do you respect time?
Tuesday, Sept. 21., 2004: In 490 BC, the Battle of Marathon took place. The Greeks defeated an invading Persian army. After the battle, a Greek warrior ran all the way back to Athens, 24 miles away, to be the first person to bring the news of the victory. This established the race that is still run in many places. How would you reward someone who went to a lot of trouble to bring you some very good news?
Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2004: In 1903, the machine that molds edible ice cream cones was patented by Italo Marchiony. (Before that, the cones were made out of paper.) Describe your favorite place and time to eat an ice-cream cone.
Thursday, Sept. 23, 2004: In 1846, the planet Neptune was discovered by J.G. Gaulle. The planet is a pale blue color, but has a large pink spot and several thin rings. What would it be like to live in a pale blue and pink world?
Friday, Sept. 24, 2004: Today is National Native American Day, to celebrate the many cultures of the Native Americans. List six ways to celebrate this day, based on what you know about Native American cultures.

Monday, Sept. 27, 2004: In 1965, Mount Taal erupted in the Philippines, the first of several eruptions that have created much hardship in that nation. Suppose a volcano began erupting near where you live, and you had to flee from the lava with only a few hours warning. What would be the most important things you would pack?
Tuesday, Sept, 28, 2004: In 1924, two American army seaplanes became the first to fly all the way around the world (with many stops along the way for fuel, supplies, and repairs to the planes). Seaplanes were used because there were very few airports in 1924. How do you think traveling in 1924 would be different from traveling today. List four ways.
Wednesday, Sept. 29, 2004: Today is the Feast of St. Michael, or Michaelmas. There is a tradition in some parts of England that eating roast goose on Michaelmas brings good luck. If there were an annual feast in your honor, what food would you like to be eaten for good luck?
Thursday, Sept. 30, 2004: Today is the Feast of St. Jerome, patron saint of students. Holly is a symbol of Christmas, and eggs are a symbol of Easter. What would be an appropriate symbol for a feast for the patron saint of students? Why that symbol?

A Prompt a Day for

AUGUST, 2004

Monday, Aug. 2, 2004: The world's first subway opened in London in 1870. Many people like riding the subway in a city, because it helps them avoid traffic. Others hate riding underground. What is your favorite form of mass transit: bus, plane, train, ferry boat, or subway.
Tuesday, Aug. 3, 2004: Two famous authors were born today: Leon Uris, who wrote courtroom dramas, and Joseph Conrad, who wrote about the sea and about wild places. If you were going to write a book, what setting would you choose for it? Why that setting?
Wednesday, Aug. 4, 2004: In 1060, Philip I became king of France, although he was only 8 years old. What are three problems a nation with a young boy as king might have?
Thursday, Aug. 5, 2004: This week, the annual Magic Convention is held in Colon, Michigan. What is the most interesting magic trick you have seen or heard about?
Friday, Aug. 6, 2004: Gertrude Ederle became the first woman to swim across the English Channel in 1926. What is the longest distance you have ever swum, run, bicycled, skated, or walked? Tell about what happened during your journey.

Monday, Aug 9, 2004: Isaak Walton, the first man to write a book about fishing with a rod and reel, was born in 1593. Write a paragraph explaining how you feel about fishing.
Tuesday, Aug. 10, 2004: Every year during this week, people gather for a group swim across the Danube in Ruse, Bulgaria. The river there is over a mile wide and has a strong current. Why do you think it is more fun to do things like this in a group than alone? Explain your answer in a paragraph.
Wednesday, Aug. 11, 2004: August is National Water Quality Month. What are four important reasons people need clean water?
Thursday, Aug. 12, 2004: Cecil B. DeMille, the famous movie director, was born in 1881. A director plans and supervises the making of a movie. What story would you like to see made into a movie? Why that one?
Friday, Aug. 13, 2004: Lucy Stone was born in 1818. She was the first woman in the United States who decided to keep her own name after she was married (to Henry Blackwell). Do you think married people should have the same name? Give reasons for your answer in a paragraph.

Monday, Aug. 16, 2004: August is Admit You're Happy Month. Why do you think people have to admit that they are happy, rather than just announce it?
Tuesday, Aug. 17, 2004: Today is Go Fly a Kite Day. Draw or describe a kite you would like to fly.
Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2004: Virginia Dare, the first English child born in North America, was born in 1587. She disappeared along with the rest of the settlers in the Lost Colony on Roanoke Island. Describe what you think may have happened to the colonists.
Thursday, Aug. 19, 2004: Today is National Aviation Day. Make a poster. slogan, or advertisement for a new airplane.
Friday, Aug. 20, 2004: Today is Miners Appreciation Day. Miners provide the raw materials for many things we use every day. Write a poem or paragraph about the work of miners.

Monday, Aug. 23, 2004: In 1902, the first cooking school in the United States opened in Boston. What are 5 things you would like to learn how to cook?
Tuesday, Aug. 24, 2004: Today is the day Mount Vesuvius erupted and buried the city of Pompeii in 79 AD. Much of what we know about ancient Roman life comes from digging up the ruins buried by the eruption. If you could go back to ancient Rome, what would you want to see or do?
Wednesday, Aug. 25, 2004: The National Park Service was created in 1916. If you could be a park ranger in any park, which would you choose? Why that one?
Thursday, Aug. 26, 2004: Lee DeForest, the inventor of the television tube, was born in 1873. What are four ways your life would change if he had never completed his invention?
Friday, Aug. 27, 2004: Confucius, the famous Chinese wise man, was born in either 550 or 551 BC. Confucius believed that education and good manners were the secrets of a successful life. Do you agree with him? Why or why not?

Monday, Aug. 30, 2004: Mary Shelley, the author of Frankenstein, was born in 1797. It was the first widely popular horror book in English. What is your favorite scary book? Write a paragraph about it, but don't give away the ending.
Tuesday, Aug. 31, 2004: The first professional football game was played in 1895. If you could play a professional sport, which one would you choose? Why that one?

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

JUNE, 2004

Tuesday, June 1, 2004: Norma Jean Baker was born in 1926. She changed her name to Marilyn Monroe and became one of the most famous movie stars of all time. If you were going to change your name, what would you change it to? Why did you chose that name?
Wednesday, June 2, 2004: The first night baseball game was played in Fort Wayne, Indiana, in 1883. Most baseball players say it is harder to play at night. Write three reasons this might be so.
Thursday, June 3, 2004: In 1965, Ed White became the first human being to go outside his spacecraft and do a space walk, protected only by his space suit. Protection is one of the most important jobs of clothing. Name some other articles of clothing that protect you, and tell what they protect you from.
Friday, June 4, 2004: In 1624, the settlement of Nieu Amsterdam was chartered by the Dutch West India Company. Later its name was changed to New York City. List at least 5 things you might like to see or do if you were going to visit New York City.

Monday, June 7, 2004: Henry Ford tested his first hand-built automobile in Detroit in 1896. Carmakers are always looking for ideas to improve cars. Think of something that could be added or changed about modern cars that might make them better, safer, or more comfortable. Describe your idea.
Tuesday, June 8, 2004: June is National Safety Month. Describe an unsafe situation you know about, and what you think should be done about it.
Wednesday, June 9, 2004: This is Pet Appreciation Week. Describe your pet, or a pet you would like to have.
Thursday, June 10, 2004: In 1938, Pandora, a giant panda, arrived at the Bronx Zoo. She was the first live panda seen in America, and caused a wave of "pandamania," including a fad for stuffed pandas. What kind of stuffed animal is your favorite? Why do you like it?
Friday, June 11, 2004: Today is Eat What You Want Day. Plan a "perfect" meal.

Monday, June 14, 2004: Today is Flag Day in the United States. Today, countries, states, and organizations have flags. In past times, families had flags as well. Design a flag for your family. Describe your design so that others could visualize it.
Tuesday, June 15, 2004. Today is the Feast of St. Vitus, patron saint of actors and dancers. What are three advantages and three disadvantages of becoming an actor or dancer?
Wednesday, June 16, 2004: In 1752, Ben Franklin flew a kite in a thunderstorm to prove that lightning was made of electricity. This was a very dangerous experiment that might have electrocuted Franklin. List 6 rules for using electrical appliances safely.
Thursday, June 17, 2004: Billy Barker was born in 1816. He discovered two different gold mines, finding the second after he wasted all the money he got from the first. He then became rich again, wasted all his new wealth, and died in poverty. If you suddenly became very rich, what steps would you take to make sure that you were able to hold on to your money.
Friday, June 18, 2004: This week was Principals' Week. Write a thank-you note to your principal.

Monday, June 21, 2004: Today is the birthday of the saxophone, which was patented in 1846 by Antoine-Joseph Sax. What is your favorite musical instrument? List some songs you would like to learn to play (or can already play) on your favorite instrument?
Tuesday, June 22, 2004: June is National Rivers Month. List all the ways you can think of people use rivers.
Wednesday, June 23, 2004: Luxemburg was founded in 963. A tiny country between France, Germany, and Belgium, and is one of the oldest countries in Europe. It is smaller than the state of Rhode Island. List 4 ways that living in a very small country would be different from living in a large one.
Thursday, June 24, 2004: Most trees in the northern hemisphere will have finished their annual growth. All the food they create from now on will be used to make seeds, or stored for the winter. List five kinds of trees you like. Tell why you like each one.
Friday, June 25, 2004: Chief Sitting Bull defeated Gen. George A. Custer at the Battle of the Little Bighorn River. Why do you think that this event is usually referred to as Custer's Last Stand, rather than Sitting Bull's Victory?

Monday, June 28, 2004: The Geophysical Research Satellite was launched on 1963. It's measurements of the earth gave us the first truly accurate information of the earth's exact size and shape. It also helped confirm that the continents are moving. North America, for instance, is racing northwest at 3 inches per year! Make up a cheer for North America, the fastest moving continent (or another continent, if you prefer).
Tuesday, June 29. 2004: This is also National Skin Safety Month. Summer sunburn is not only painful, it can lead to skin cancer. Make a poster or slogan to encourage people to use sunscreen.
Wednesday, June 30, 2004: Today is Tom Sawyer Day. Tom Sawyer was famous for tricking his friends to do his work for him. What chores do you hate to do?

Have a happy and safe summer!

There will be no Prompts for July.

A Prompt a Day for

May 2004

Monday, May 3, 2004: Today is the beginning of three days of kite fighting in Japan. Describe or draw the most interesting or unusual kite you have seen.
Tuesday, May 4, 2004: In 1927, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences was founded. The Academy gives out the Oscars (Academy Awards) every year. What is the WORST movie you ever saw? What are three things about that movie that were bad?
Wednesday, May 5, 2004: In China, Japan, and Korea, today is Boys' Day, when families honor boys with parties and displays. (Girls' Day is March 3) In all three countries, special foods are served. If you were planning a Boys' or Girls' Day celebration for your family, what special foods would you serve? Why those foods?
Thursday, May 6, 2004: In 1889, the Eiffel Tower was officially opened in Paris. Many people at the time thought it was ugly, but later changed their minds. What is something you have changed your mind about? Why did you change it?
Friday, May 7, 2004: May is National Book Month. What is your favorite place to read? Why is that place your favorite?

Monday, May 10, 2004: In 1541, Hernando de Soto became the first European to find the Mississippi River. He ate a catfish dinner on its banks. Write a paragraph about your favorite kind of fish.
Tuesday, May, 11, 2004. The painter Salvador Dali was born in 1904 in Spain. His most famous painting, Persistence of Memory, shows limp and melted watches and clocks, to show how our memories can defy time. Describe a happy time you remember.
Wednesday, May 12, 2004: In 1653, the people of New York (then called New Amsterdam) began building a wall to protect their city. It was later torn down and the place where it was became Wall Street. Suppose every town had a wall around it, and you had to pay a toll every time you went in or out. How do you think your life would change?
Thursday, May 13, 2004: Triskaidekaphobia is the fear of the number 13. What is something you are afraid of?
Friday, May 14, 2004: George Lucas, the creator of the Star Wars series, was born in 1944. If you could have a robot like C3PO or R2D2, what are some of the thinks you would want it to do for you?

Monday, May 17, 2004: In 1845, the rubber band was patented. Suppose there were no rubber bands. What would you use instead?
Tuesday, May 18, 2004: May is Older Americans Month. Tell about an older person whom you know and admire.
Wednesday, May 19, 2004: In 1777, Button Gwinnett became the first signer of the Declaration of Independence to die, less than a year after he signed it. His signature is so rare that a collector of autographs paid $150,000 for one. List some people whose autographs you would like to collect.
Thursday, May 20, 2004: Today is National Bike to Work Day. What would be the effect if everyone rode bicycles for short trips, rather than take a car?
Friday, May 21, 2004: Frances Theresa Densmore was born in 1867. She went among Native American tribes recording their songs and ceremonies, many of which would otherwise have been lost. She recorded more than 2,500 Indian songs. How would you like a job recording other people's songs and stories? What would be some of the problems a job like that would have?

Monday, May 24, 2004: In 1968, Chief, the last living American cavalry horse died. What is your favorite story about a horse or horses. Why do you like that story?
Tuesday, May 25, 2004: In 1889, Igor Sikorsky was born. He invented the first successful helicopter. If you could ride in a helicopter, where would you like to go? What would you like to see?
Wednesday, May 26, 2004: Today is Western Actor Day, in honor of three western actors born today: John Wayne, Jay Silverheels (Tonto in the Lone Rangers series), and James Arness (Matt Dillon of Gunsmoke). Westerns used to be very popular, but are not today. Why do you think westerns are no longer popular?
Thursday, May 27, 2004: In 1782, George Washington refused to allow his officers to make him King of America. How might our country have been different if he had become king.
Friday, May 28, 2004: Today is the birthday of the Golden Gate Bridge, which opened in 1937. Traveling over a high bridge like the Golden Gate can be either scary or a big thrill. Which is it for you? How do you feel when you cross a high bridge or visit a high place?

A PROMPT A DAY FOR

APRIL, 2004

The character trait for April is TRUSTWORTHINESS

Thursday, April 1, 2004: In 1748, excavation began on the city of Pompeii, which had been buried by a volcano 1,800 years before (79 BC). It is still going on. Suppose you could spend a summer working on an archeological dig. In what part of the world would you prefer to work? What kind of things would you like to find?
Friday, April 2, 2004: Nicholas Murray Butler was born in 1862. A famous educator, writer, and scholar, he won the Nobel Peace Price in 1931, and founded the Columbia School of Journalism, the first journalism school in the world. Journalists are reporters; they may report for newspapers, magazines, television, radio, or even the internet. Most of them specialize in one or two kinds of news. If you were a reporter, what kind would you like to be?

Monday, April 5, 2004: In 1969, the annual boat races between Oxford and Cambridge Universities in England were held on the Thames River. It was the first time in many years that the river had been clean enough for the race to be held there. Pollution is a problem affecting many places in the world. What can you do personally to reduce pollution?
Tuesday, April 6, 2004: In 1869, celluloid, the first kind of plastic, was invented by John W. Hyatt. Today, its main use is to make dice and buttons. Think of all the things that are made of plastic today. If it were necessary to replace all plastic with natural material, such as wood or metal, which plastic things would be the hardest to replace? Why?
Wednesday, April 7, 2004: Today is World Health Day. Many health problems could be prevented if people took better care of themselves. Make a poster or script for an ad that encourages people to follow an important health rule.
Thursday, April 8: Margarine was invented in 1873. Margarine is used as a substitute for butter by dieters because it contains less fat and no cholesterol. Some people prefer its taste to butter, but others can't stand it. What food do you like that other people dislike? Write an appetizing description of it.
Friday, April 9: In 1105, England's King Henry I was scolded in church for his long hair. He replied that he used his long hair to cushion his helmet when wearing armor, but permitted it to be trimmed. Why do you suppose people get so upset about other people's hair?

Monday, April 12: In 1979, Kevin MacKenzie sent the first emoticon or smiley, over the internet. Smileys use punctuation marks and keyboard symbols to show the writer's feelings. Make up a list of all the kinds of smileys you know. :-) "I'm happy," or :-( "I'm sad." or :-| "I'm neutral" are examples. Tell what they mean.
Tuesday, April 13: Harold Stassen was born in 1907. He was governor of Minnesota, and ran for the Republican nomination for President 9 times. He was never nominated. Why do you think he would do it, when it was clear that he could not win?
Wednesday, April 14: In 1828, Noah Webster published the first edition of his dictionary of the American language. Every year or so, dictionary makers (lexicographers) must decide which slang words have lasted long enough to be put into dictionaries. What are some slang words or expressions you think might make it into the dictionary?
Thursday, April 15: The Titanic struck an iceberg and sank in 1912, the worst ocean liner sinking up to that time. Modern ocean liners are much safer, and carry plenty of lifeboats. Many people enjoy cruises on ocean liners. If you could take a cruise, where would you like to go?
Friday, April 16: In 1966, the ancient Egyptian temple at Abu Simbel was taken apart and moved to a new location to save it from being flooded by a dam. Many historic structures have been moved from their original location. Some people think this is a good thing, others disagree. What reasons to move an historical building do you think are good enough? List them.

Monday, April 19: Today is the annual running of the Boston Marathon, the world's most famous 26 mile race. If you were going to run in an important and famous race, how would you train?
Tuesday, April 20: In 1988, 57-year-old Helen Thayer became the first woman to reach the North Pole on a solo expedition. Her only companion was her husky Charlie, who warned her of polar bears. If you had to choose an animal for a long and difficult task, what animal would you choose, and why?
Wednesday, April 21: Today is the city of Rome's 2757th birthday. Prepare a birthday card for this ancient, historical, and beautiful city.
Thursday, April 22: In 1500, Pedro Alverez de Cabral claimed Brazil for Portugal. Imagine that you are taking a voyage on the Amazon River in Brazil. What are some of the things you might do or see?
Friday, April 23: Today is the beginning of week-long fairs in many English towns. Most American communities have their fairs in the fall, but the English tradition is to have them in the spring. Which season is better for a fair? Defend your answer

Monday, April 26: Today in 1564 was William Shakespeare's birthday. (He was actually baptized on this day, which is what people celebrated in his time.) He wrote Romeo and Juliet and many other plays. It is remarkable that people still enjoy his plays, although the English language has changed a great deal since his time. What programs on TV today do you think will still be enjoyed many years from now? Why those programs?
Tuesday, April 27: Today is the feast of St. Zita, the patron saint of maids, housekeepers, and custodians. Write a thank-you note to your classroom' s custodian or housekeeper. Deliver it to him or her.
Wednesday, April 28: Today is the first day of the ancient Roman six-day festival of the flowers. What is your favorite flower? Write a poem or a paragraph, or make a poster, about your favorite flower.
Thursday, April 29: Being dependable is an important quality. List reasons that dependability is important.
Friday, April 30: The first clipper ship, the fastest and most beautiful of all sailing ships, was launched in 1853. Some people like to sail, others to fly, to travel by railroad, or to go by car. What is your favorite way to travel? Why do you like that way?

A Prompt a Day for March, 2004

The Character Trait for March is Citizenship.

Monday, March 1: The US Peace Corps was established in 1961. Peace corps volunteers go to many poor nations or regions and work with the people there in community-building activities, such as building schools, digging wells, or improving local farming practices. If you were a Peace Corps volunteer, to what poor country or region would you like to go? Why there? (The VISTA program sends volunteers to help poor people in the United States.)
Tuesday, March 2: Dr. Seuss (Theodore Seuss Geisel) was born in 1904. Today is READ ACROSS AMERICA Day, in his honor. What is your favorite book to read? Write an advertising slogan to persuade other students to read your book.
Wednesday, March 3: Alexander Graham Bell, the inventor of the telephone, was born in 1847. If you could make a phone call to anyone in the world, who would you call? What would you say to them, or ask them?
Thursday, March 4: Today is Fireman's Day, a holiday to honor all firemen. Write a paragraph or compose a poem that expresses appreciation to firemen.
Friday, March 5: Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac, the founder of the city of Detroit, was born in 1658. The Cadillac car is named in his honor. What is your favorite brand of car? Why do you like that brand?

Monday, March 8: Kenneth Grahame, author of The Wind in the Willows, was born in 1859. He was only one of many authors who used animals as characters in his stories. If you were writing a story or report about an animal, which animal would you choose? Why that animal?
Tuesday, March 9: Yuri Gagarin was born in 1934. He was the first human being to orbit the earth in 1961. Many Americans know about John Glenn, the first American to orbit the earth, but not about Gagarin, who actually did it first. It took great courage for both Gagarin and Glenn, because none of their equipment had actually been tested in space. Some people believe courage is the most important of all good qualities. What do you think is the most important? Why do you think so?
Wednesday, March 10: In 1894, America's first dog license law was signed, as a way to control strays and protect dogs from abuse. What is your favorite breed of dogs? If you don't like dogs, what pet would you prefer. Defend your choice in a paragraph.
Thursday, March 11: In 1888, a huge blizzard set records that still exist in much of the United States. It lasted three days and dropped more than five feet of snow on much of the country. Even Georgia and Florida had snow. What is the worst snowstorm you can remember? What did you do during and after the storm?
Friday, March 12: Bobby Fischer, the only American ever to win the World Chess Championship in modern times, was born in 1943. What is your favorite board game? Why do you like it?

Monday, March 15: President Andrew Jackson was born in 1767. He was the first President to come from a really poor background, since his father died shortly after he was born and his mother had to work as a servant to provide food for him. What kind of work would you be willing to do to feed your family? Give at least four examples
Tuesday, March 16: The US Military Academy at West Point was established in 1802. Students at West Point must not only study very hard, but they must follow strict rules and keep physically fit. After they graduate, they become officers in the Army or Marine Corps. If you decided to join one of the military services (Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, or Coast Guard), which one would you choose? Why?
Wednesday, March 17: The National Gallery of Art opened in Washington, DC, in 1941. What is your favorite kind or piece of art? Describe it so that others will like it also.
Thursday, March 18: Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov was born in 1844. He wrote music that told a story without words. What is your favorite piece of music? How does hearing it make you feel?
Friday, March 19: Daylight Savings Time was first used in New York in 1918. Some people like Daylight Savings Time because there is more light in the evening. Others hate it because they have to wake up an hour earlier. Describe your feelings about Daylight Savings Time.

Monday, March 22: In ancient Rome, a procession honoring the pine tree, a symbol of endurance because it stays green all winter, was held every year. If you had to choose a tree as a symbol, what kind of tree would you choose? What would it symbolize?
Tuesday, March 23: Today is World Meteorological Day, to make people think of the importance of the weather in their lives. List at least three events in your own life that were changed because of the weather.
Wednesday, March 24: In ancient Rome, this day was set aside for mourning people who died without families and friends to mourn them. Everyone fasted all day and put black mourning ribbons on their doors. Do you think this is a good custom? Write a paragraph defending or opposing it.
Thursday, March 25: Today is the official Holiday for Everything. Think of something that does not have a holiday and compose an ad, slogan, or poem about it.
Friday, March 26: Robert Frost was born in 1875. He wrote "The Road Not Taken" and many other famous poems.

THE ROAD NOT TAKEN

Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveler, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth.

Then took the other, as just as fair,
And having perhaps the better claim,
Because it was grassy and wanted wear;
Though as for that the passing there
Had worn them really about the same,

And both that morning equally lay
In leaves no step had trodden black.
Oh, I kept the first for another day!
Yet knowing how way leads on to way,
I doubted if I should ever come back.

I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I--
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.

Think of a decision that has made a difference in your life. What was it. What difference did it make?

Monday, March 29: Less than half of the eligible voters actually voted in the last election. What are some things that might be done to increase the number of voters?
Tuesday, March 30: The eraser top for a pencil was first invented in 1858. Everybody makes mistakes. What is the funniest mistake you have ever seen?
Wednesday, March 31: Today the annual Goat and Crab Races are held in Tobago, an island in the Caribbean Sea. What is the strangest race you can imagine? Describe it.

A PROMPT A DAY FOR FEBRUARY, 2004

The character trait for February is COOPERATION.

Monday, Feb. 2, 2004: Most bear cubs will be born this week. How would the celebration of birthdays change if all babies were born during one week every year.
Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2004: In 1821, Elizabeth Blackwell, the first woman to become a doctor, was born. What are some of the problems a person who is first to do something will face?
Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2004: Rosa Parks was born in 1913. She became famous for refusing to obey segregation laws on a bus in Montgomery, AL. If you could interview Ms. Parks, what would be 5 questions you would ask her.
Thursday, Feb. 5, 2004: Today is Weather Person Day. John Jeffres, who kept daily record of the weather in Boston, MA, from 1774 to 1816, and tried to predict the weather in the future based on the patterns he observed. He is considered the first weather forecaster. Describe something you were planning to do that was spoiled by unexpected bad weather.
Friday, Feb. 6, 2004: Queen Elizabeth II became queen in 1952, when her father, King George VI, died. What are 4 qualities a modern king or queen, who has little real power but is important as a symbol, needs to have? Why do they need those qualities.

Monday, Feb. 9, 2004: in 1558, Spanish King Charles V appointed the Duke of Medina-Sidonia to command the Spanish Armada, a huge fleet he sent to invade England. The duke was a brave and honest man who knew nothing about the navy and was always seasick while in a boat. If you had to choose someone to lead a large and dangerous mission, what 3 qualities would you look for? What are 3 other qualities you would NOT want your leader to have?
Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2004: In 1989, the World Wrestling Federation admitted in court that professional wrestling was an exhibition, not a sport. Many people still like to watch it because it is so exciting. What do you consider the most exciting sport to watch on television? Why that one?
Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2004: Thomas Edison was born in 1847. He still holds the record for the most inventions patented, more than 500, most of them electric appliances. How would your life be different if you had to live without electricity and elecric appliances for a month? Make a list of the 7 biggest changes you'd expect.
Thursday, Feb. 12, 2004: In 1915, the construction of the Lincoln Memorial began. It is shown on the penny and the $5 bill, and many people think it is one of the most beautiful buildings in Washington, DC. What are the most beautiful buildings you have seen. Make a list of your top 5.
Friday, Feb. 13, 2004: The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill opened in 1795. It was the first state-supported university to open in the United States, and was intended to make it possible for young people to get a college education at low cost. What are some things you might like to study when you go to college? Make a list of 5, then put them in order.
Monday, Feb. 16, 2004: In 2001, Drs. Poreda and Alvarez reported they had discovered evidence for the probable cause of the extinction of the dinosaurs, an asteroid or comet hitting the earth 65 million years ago. If you could go back to the time of the dinosaurs, what would you like to see? Describe what you think the earth would be like back then.
Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2004: In 1771, Bath, ME, became the first incorporated town in the area that would become the United States. Some people like to live in town, others prefer to live in the country. Give three advantages of each place.
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2004: In 1930, Clyde Tombaugh discovered the planet Pluto. It is the last planet we know about, but some astronomers believe there may be other planets even farther away from the sun. Planets are supposed to be named for Roman gods or goddesses. If you discovered a planet, what god or goddess would you name it for. Why that name?
Thursday, Feb. 19, 2004: British actor David Garrick was born in 1717. He was the first actor to become world famous for acting alone. Who is your favorite actor. What roles did he or she play that you particularly liked?
Friday, Feb. 20, 2004: In 1962, John Glenn became the first American to orbit the earth in a spacecraft, and the President declared that Feb. 20 was to be known as John Glenn Day. He is the only living American to have a day named in his honor. Can you think of another living American who deserves to have a day named for him or her? Tell why that person deserves a special day.
Monday, Feb. 23, 2004: The first Rotary Club was founded in 1905 in Chicago. The Rotary, Lions, Kiwanis, and Civitan Clubs are among the many organizations that work to improve community life. What would be a good project to improve your community? What would it take to complete that project?
Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2004: In 1990, the singing group Milli Vanilli was forced to give back its Grammy awards when it was discovered they had not made the recordings issued in their name. How would you feel if you learned your favorite group had cheated? What would you do about it?
Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2004: In 1870, Hiram Revels became the first African-American to be sworn in as a United States senator. Famous in his time, he is less well known today. Think of the people who are famous today. Which of them do you think will still be as famous in 100 years? Name 4 people and what they are famous for.
Thursday, Feb. 26, 2004: In 1846, William Cody was born. He led a colorful and exciting life and got the nickname Buffalo Bill. He was a cowboy, explorer, scout, and buffalo hunter and spent most of his life outdoors. What are three good things and three bad things about an outdoor life like his?
Friday, Feb. 27, 2004: If your birthday is Feb. 29, it comes only once every four years. Most people born on that day choose to celebrate their birthday either on Feb. 28 or on Mar. 1. Which date would you choose, and why?

A PROMPT A DAY FOR JANUARY 2004

The character trait for January is integrity.

Monday, Jan. 5, 2004: Today is George Washington Carver Day, in honor of the famous African-American scientist. Born a slave, he helped to found the Tuskeegee Institute and discovered hundreds of new uses for peanuts, sweet potatoes, and other southern crops. Think of something that people use for one purpose now, and try to invent a new use for it
Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2003: George and Martha Washington were married in 1759. Both of them endured hardship and danger during the Revolutionary War, as many families are experiencing today. What are some things you can do to help families whose members are separated by war?
Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2004: In 1610, Galileo became the first person to see the moons of Jupiter through his telescope. He saw the four largest and named them from mythology: Io, Ganymede, Europa, and Calisto. What would you name them?
Thursday, Jan. 8, 2004: Elvis Presley was born in 1935. What is your favorite Elvis song? If you don't like any Elvis songs, what songs do you like?
Friday, Jan. 9, 2004: Today is the Roman festival of Agonalia, a feast in honor of Janus, god of beginnings and endings. On this day, Romans would make plans and projects for the new year, the origin of New Year's Resolutions. What goal would you like to set for yourself this year?
Monday, Jan. 12, 2004: In 1773, the first museum in America was opened in Charleston, SC. What is something you would like to see that is in a museum? Why do you want to see that?
Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2004: The first newspaper was founded in Augsburg, Germany in 1609. If you could read an original newspaper account of a famous historical event, which one would you choose, and why?
Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2004: In 1908, Illinois selected its state tree, the oak, and state flower, the violet. If your state decided to change its tree or flower, what do you think they should change it to? Give some reasons for your answer.
Thursday, Jan. 15, 2004: Today is Adult Day in Japan, in honor of young people who are 20 years old and have become adults. They put on traditional ceremonial adult clothing and are visited by their parents' friends. How would you celebrate becoming an adult?
Friday, Jan. 16, 2004: Captain James Cook discovered St. George Island, which he named for England's patron saint. If you were to discover an island, what would you name it, and why?
Monday, Jan. 19, 2004: Edgar Allan Poe was born in 1809. His most famous poem, "The Raven," tells about a mysterious bird. Write a poem or short paragraph about an animal you think is mysterious (or might be used in a mystery).
Tuesday, Jan 20, 2004: The first basketball game was played in 1892. Who is your favorite basketball player? List reasons you like him or her.
Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2004: Eliza H. Bordman died in 1873, after successfully working to make Washington's birthday a holiday. What person do you think needs a holiday? Why do you think so?
Thursday, Jan. 22, 2004: Francis Bacon was born in 1561. He wrote and described the scientific method. He stressed that a scientist must always be truthful in his reports. Why is truthfulness such an important quality for most jobs and professions?
Friday, Jan. 23, 2004: In 1831, Belgium accepted a design for its national flag, based on the German flag, but with strips that run in a different direction. If the United States decided to choose a new flag, what do you think would be a good design? Draw or describe it.
Monday, Jan 26, 2004: In 1500, the Amazon River was discovered by Vincent Pizon. The Amazon is the largest river in the world, and an important feature of South America. If you were going to South America, list the things you would like to see there.
Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2004: Charles Lutwidge Dodgson, the author of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, was born in 1832. What is your favorite character from this famous story? Why do you like that character?
Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2004: Charles the Simple became King of France in 893. As his name suggests, he was not very smart. What qualities do you think a good king needs?
Thursday, Jan. 29, 2004: In 1929, a foundation was established to raise and train Seeing Eye dogs for the blind. What do you think would be the most difficult problem faced by blind people?
Friday, January 30, 2004: In 1790, lifeboats were first used to rescue people from a sinking ship. Make a list of the survival gear you think should be kept on a lifeboat.

A PROMPT A DAY FOR
DECEMBER 2003

The character trait for December is responsibility.

Monday, Dec. 1: Iceland became independent of Denmark peacefully in 1919. Iceland's name is misleading, since it is not covered with ice, although there are ice-covered mountains which can be seen far out to sea. If the people of Iceland decided to change the name of their island, what name would you suggest for them to use? Why would your suggestion be a good one?
Tuesday, Dec. 2: In 1901, King C. Gillette patented the safety razor, making shaving easier for everyone. Some people like men with beards, others do not. How do you feel about men with beards?
Wednesday, Dec. 3: Madison was selected as the capital of Wisconsin in 1836. Suppose this state decided to move its capital to a new city. What are 5 things that would be advantages for a city seeking to become the new capital?
Thursday, Dec. 4: Many young people ask their parents for money to buy Christmas presents. Others think you should use money you earned or saved to buy presents. How do you feel about this? Explain your viewpoint.
Friday, Dec. 5: This is National Cookie Week. Invent and describe an entirely new kind of really delicious cookie.
Monday, Dec. 8: In 1905, the American Bison Society was founded to protect the buffalo from extinction. It has been successful. If you were going to found a society to protect a rare or endangered animal, which one would you choose, and why?
Tuesday, Dec. 9: In 1842, the first Christmas Card was created. Today, many people send cards over the internet. Other people prefer to mail cards they bought, while still others prefer handmade cards. Which kind of card do you prefer? Why?
Wednesday, Dec. 10: English settlers in New England first recorded seeing the Northern Lights in 1719. Before meteorologists discovered what caused them, many people had created elaborate stories about them. Create a brief story to explain the Northern Lights.
Thursday, Dec. 11: In 1924, Duke University was founded when James B. Duke gave Trinity College a huge grant of money. He wanted the university to concentrate on things that helped the people of North and South Carolina achieve a better life. If you were going to start a university or college, what goals would you want it to have?
Friday, Dec. 12: Leona Helmsley, a rich hotel-owner in New York City, was found guilt of tax evasion and sent to jail. She had declared that "only poor people pay taxes," but records show that many poor people cheat on their taxes also. Do you think that the punishment for tax cheating should be based on how much money you have, how much money you attempted to cheat about, or what kind of cheating you did? Explain your answer.
Monday, Dec. 15: Alexander Eiffel, designer and builder of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, was born in 1832. If you designed a tower to build in your home town, what would you want it to look like?
Tuesday, Dec. 16: Arthur C. Clark was born in 1917. He thought of the idea of using satellites to send television, radio, and telephone signals, and wrote the story that became the movie 2001: A Space Odyssey. If aliens from outer space exist, what do you think they look like? Describe them and their spaceship.
Wednesday, Dec. 17: John Greeleaf Whittier, American poet, was born in 1807. One of his most famous poems is "Snowbound," describing his family's life on a small farm during a blizzard. When you are isolated with your family by bad weather, what are some of the things you do to keep amused?
Thursday, Dec. 18: In 1898, the first automobile land speed record was set at 34.2 miles per hour. Cars, horses, airplanes, boats, and people all race for records. If you could set some kind of record, what would it be? Why would you like to set that record?
Friday, Dec. 19: In 1777, George Washington and his army began their winter at Valley Forge, during which they suffered many hardships. Washington and his men were willing to suffer because they believed in their cause. What cause would you be willing to suffer hardships for?

Happy Holidays to all!

A Prompt A Day for
NOVEMBER 2003
The character trait for November is CARING

Monday, Nov. 3: Today is Sandwich Day. John Montagu, 4th Earl of Sandwich popularized the sandwich as a quick way to eat while working or playing. Design the ideal sandwich.

Tuesday, Nov. 4: This is International Cat Week. Cats are a feature of literature and cartoons. What is your favorite cat? Why do you like that one.

Wednesday, Nov. 5: In 1492, Christopher Columbus and his crew learned of corn from the Indians and brought it back to Europe. What is your favorite way of eating corn?

Thursday, Nov. 6: In 1869, the first college football game was played. Players did not wear pads and their helmets were made of leather. What is your favorite football team: high school, college, and professional?

Friday, Nov. 7: In 1629, English settlers chose the name New Hampshire for their colony. If you were settling a new land, what name would you choose for your new colony? Explain your choice.

Monday, Nov. 10: Today is the birthday of the Marine Corps, in 1775. Marines celebrate with cakes, balls, and feasts. Design a cake for the Marine Corps.

Tuesday, Nov. 11: Today is Martinmas, the feast day of St. Martin of Tours, who is saint of reformed alcoholics and substance abusers. Substance abusers are a big problem in every society. List three things that could be done to help prevent people from becoming substance abusers.

Wednesday, Nov. 12: In 1776, a convention met to write a state constitution for North Carolina. What do you think are the four most important jobs of the state government?

Thursday, Nov. 13: Thomas Chippendale, the most famous designer of furniture was buried today in 1779. Chippendale is the first style of furniture to be named after the person who designed it. Design a piece of furniture of your own. It should be both nice to look at and useful.

Friday, Nov. 14: This Saturday is Sadie Hawkins day, in which girls are supposed to ask boys for dates. Why do you suppose that there was a day set aside for that?

Monday, Nov. 17: Today is Student Day in the Czech Republic. What is the best thing about being a student, and what is the worst thing about it?

Tuesday, Nov. 18: In 1820, American Captain Nathaniel Palmer discovered that Antarctica was a separate continent. Imagine you were going on a trip to Antarctica. What are three things you would like to see, and three things you would need to be sure you carried with you?

Wednesday, Nov. 19: This is National Geography Week. Name 5 important geographic features you would like to visit.

Thursday, Nov. 20: The cities of Buda and Pest in Hungary grew up on opposite banks of the Danube River. They merged into one city in 1873, which is now called Budapest. What are 4 problems such a city would have?

Friday, Nov. 21: Today is the birthday of the phonograph, in 1877. It was the first inexpensive way to record music. What is your favorite piece of recorded music? How did you learn about it?

Monday, Nov. 24: In 1642, Abel Tasman discovered Tasmania. When he reported some of the strange animals he had discovered there, people thought he had made them up. Describe an animal that might really live, or have lived, in some remote place.

Tuesday, Nov. 25: In 1832, a three-course meal (appetizer, main meal, and dessert) at Delmonico's, one of the best restaurants in New York City, costs 12 cents. Prices have gone up a great amount since then. If you could order such a meal, what would you order, and how much would you expect to pay today?

Wednesday, Nov. 26: In 885, vikings sailed up the Seine River and attacked Paris. What do think life would be like as a viking? Write a paragraph about it.

Happy Thanksgiving

A PROMPT A DAY FOR OCTOBER, 2003

The character trait for October is self-discipline

Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2003: The first postcard was issued by Austria in 1869. Many people send picture postcard about places they visit. If you were to design a postcard for your school, what would you put on it. Draw or describe it.
Thursday, Oct. 2, 2003: Today is Comedian Day, to honor people who make us laugh. Famous comedians Bud Abbott (of Abbott and Costello) and Groucho Marx (of the Marx Brothers) had birthdays today. Who is your favorite comedian? Why do you like him or her?
Friday, Oct. 3, 2003: October is National Crime Prevention Month. Young people are the victims of crime more often than any other age group. What are some things young people can do to decrease crime?

Monday, Oct. 6, 2003: Today is Movie Day. The first movie was shown by Thomas Edison, who invented the motion picture in 1889, and the first sound movie, The Jazz Singer, was released in 1927. What are your five favorite movies? Which one is your most favorite? Why do you like it so much?
Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2003: This is National Newspaper Week. People who work in newspapers are concerned that many young people do not read them. What are five things that they can do to make newspapers more interesting to people your age?
Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2003: The only perfect game (all 27 batters for one side were put out without making it to first base) in the history of the World Series was pitched by Don Larsen of the Yankees in 1956. Larsen was put into the Baseball Hall of Fame for this remarkable feat. Think of all the sports games you have watched. Describe the most memorable moment in sports you can think of.
Thursday, Oct. 9, 2003: Today the people of Korea celebrate their alphabet, the Hangul. If you were designing a celebration for the alphabet, what would you do to remind people of how important it is? Describe two events you would plan for your celebration.
Friday, Oct. 10, 2003: This is Fire Prevention Week. Despite all efforts, many people do careless things with fire that end up hurting people and destroying things. Think up a radio or television message urging people to be safe with fire. Write a short script for your message.

Monday, Oct. 13, 2003: George Washington officially laid the cornerstone of the White House in 1792. It is a very large and beautiful house, but many Presidentsï¿½Efamilies have complained that they have very little privacy while they are living there. How would you feel if you were famous and being watched all the time? What would you do to get some privacy?
Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2003: Henry Blair got a patent for his corn planter in 1834. He was the first African-American to patent an invention. Corn planters are very useful for farmers, but not for students. What are the three most useful inventions for students you can think of? Tell why you think those three are the most useful.
Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2003: Today is National Poetry Day. Either write a poem about something you care about, or tell which poem is your favorite and why you like it.
Thursday, Oct. 16, 2003: This is the Feast of St. Gall. According to superstition, if today is dry, next spring will also be dry. Weather that is too wet or too dry can cause problems. Of too much rain or too little rain, which is the worst in your opinion? Why do you think so?
Friday, Oct. 17, 2003: In 1781, the British army surrendered to the American army commanded by George Washington at Yorktown. This brought the fighting in the American Revolutionary War to an end. Suppose Washington and his army had been defeated and the United States had remained part of the British empire. How do you think your life would be different? List four ways.

Monday, Oct. 20, 2003: Bela Lugosi, the actor who created the role of Dracula in the movies, was born in 1882. Lugosi was able to scare people without using special makeup, not even fake fangs. Do you like scary movies? Which is your favorite scary character? Tell why you like that character, or, if you donï¿½t like scary movies, tell what kind of movie you like instead.
Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2003: Today is the birthday of the light bulb, which was invented by Thomas Edison in 1879. Before the electric light, most people went to bed at dark because candles and lanterns were both expensive and dangerous. How would your life change if you had to go to bed every day by dark, even in the winter, when days are so short?
Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2003: Today is the Annual Cajun Yam Festival in Louisiana. (Another name for the yam is the sweet potato.) Which vegetable is your favorite? If there was a festival for that vegetable, what would you do to celebrate it?
Thursday, Oct. 23, 2003: According to Bishop James Ussher, the earth was created on this day. Of course, no one knows the actual date the earth came into existence, but this is as good a day as any to celebrate its birthday. If you were going to create a birthday card for the earth, what would you put on it?
Friday, Oct. 24, 2003: Today is United Nations Day. The UN was created so there would be a place nations could meet and work together. What are four problems that nations need to work together on?

Monday, Oct. 27, 2003: President Theodore Roosevelt was born in 1858. He said the first requirement of a good citizen is, ï¿½he shall be able and willing to pull his weight.ï¿½E What do you think he meant by that?
Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2003: October is National Roller Skating Month. What other fun activities do you think need to have a month? Select one and list reasons that activity should be celebrated for a month.
Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2003: In 1929, the stock market crashed (went down very far, very fast). This event is considered the beginning of the Great Depression, a ten-year period of hard times all over the world. More than one fourth of the working people in the United States lost their jobs, and many others saw their pay go way down. How do you think life in this community would change if that many people lost their jobs today? List five ways, and choose the one that would be the most important.
Thursday, Oct. 30, 2003: In 1975, the people of Spain decided they wanted to have a king, and invited Juan Carlos, whose grandfather had been thrown out as king, to come and take the throne. He does not run the government; the prime minister has the real power. Why do you think the people of Spain decided to start having a king again? What are two advantages of having a king? What are two disadvantages?
Friday, Oct. 31, 2003: Today is National Magic Day, in honor of Harry Houdini, the famous magician and escape artist, who died in 1926. Describe the most interesting or mysterious magic trick you have seen.

Sources for events mentioned:

Today in History: A day-by-day review of world events, Tery Spohn and Nancy Cash, eds. Tehabi Books, DK. London. Copyright 2003.
The Almanac of Dates: Events of the past for every day of the year, Linda Millgate. A Harvest/HBJ Book, Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, Publishers. San Diego, New York, and London. Copyright 1977.
On This Day in History, Leonard and Thema Spinrad, revised by Anistatia R. Miller and Jared M. Brown. Prentice Hall Press. Paramus, NJ. Copyright 1999.
More On This Day in History, Anistatia R. Miller and Jared M. Brown. Prentice Hall Press. Paramus, NJ. Copyright 2002.
The Earth Calendar, http://www.earthcalendar.net/index.php

Ozymandias

A PROMPT A DAY FOR JANUARY 2004

The character trait for January is integrity.

A PROMPT A DAY FOR DECEMBER 2003

The character trait for December is responsibility.

Happy Holidays to all!

The character trait for November is CARING

A PROMPT A DAY FOR OCTOBER, 2003

Sources for events mentioned:

A PROMPT A DAY FOR
DECEMBER 2003