tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15317688617317869942024-03-13T22:53:53.707-04:00Music Matters"I have a dream that the teaching profession will one day be held in the highest esteem alongside the medical and legal professions. Without the professional educator, there would be no other professions of which to speak." DTDee Dee Tamburrinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01294709572081378357noreply@blogger.comBlogger238125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531768861731786994.post-32056019340906204032021-01-02T08:04:00.000-05:002021-01-02T08:04:11.770-05:00The "Year of the Pandemic" in Review<p><span style="background-color: #01ffff;"> 2021 has arrived! HAPPY NEW YEAR!</span></p><p>The 2019-20 school year will always be known as the year of COVID-19. The year the world was thrust into a global pandemic. The year the world flipped upside down and we learned how to navigate in our "new normal." The year of virtual education. The year of change.</p><p>I do not know if 2021 will be any different from 2020 or 2019. There has been so much loss in the past twelve months and we could dwell on this truth and allow a dark cloud to envelope us, but I choose to dwell on the good things that happened in 2020 and be grateful for my many blessings instead.</p><p>We left for Spring break in March and never returned to finish out the school year. Teaching music virtually from home in my garage left much to be desired, but the rest of my family was working from home also, and music is such a noisy job.</p><p>We shared lots of family time because no one was allowed to leave the house except for necessities, we spent much-needed time outdoors and I have never before enjoyed Spring as much as I did last Spring. Long walks, surf fishing (once they re-opened the beaches), trail hikes, reading outdoors in the sunlight, relaxing by the pool (once they re-opened the community pool) - it was a lovely time of refreshment for a really tired soul. For this, I will always be grateful.</p><p>Once the "shelter at home" mandate was lifted, we began to carefully move around the city. It has been 10 months and we are still wearing masks in public, in and out of restaurants, in church, in large gatherings and there is no end date in sight.</p><p>I am grateful for technology that allowed us to attend church without being in the physical space we call church. I am a worshiper of God and I love being in the presence of God in a community of believers in a physical building. However, I learned to appreciate an app on my phone and a set of ear buds while participating in our worship services for the past 10 months. The irony of this entire year at church has been that it was supposed to be a year of sending missionaries around the globe to spread the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ. It was supposed to be a year of travel, witnessing, being the "hands and feet of Jesus" to those less fortunate. We had to hit the "pause" button.</p><p>I attended a virtual professional development conference in June with Quaver Music Ed. My thinking was that if we did not return to school in August, I could teach from home with this digital platform. This was my Plan B and it was an awesome educational experience.</p><p>Our family gathered for "Family Fun Week" in July. My nephew graduated from high school and we celebrated him in a large way. Precautions were in place, of course, and there was no COVID fallout from our gathering which gave me hope that when my son married in December, we would also be able to gather. Additionally, we hosted two bridal showers this week for my son's fiancé. No COVID fallout there either.</p><p>We returned to school in August with a handful of virtual students. Most of us were face-to-face in the brick and mortar building. I teach in a K-12 school, so our Upper School was closed for two weeks immediately following a weekend of Homecoming parties. Lower School has been open the entire year. We were told to exercise caution as we gathered for Halloween parties, Thanksgiving gatherings and Christmas this year. We will see what the new year holds when students return from break in 3 days.</p><p>Against all odds, I conducted three "live" indoor Christmas programs, sang in a Drive-In Christmas program outdoors and celebrated my son's wedding - all in the month of December - without issue. I cannot stop living life because of a virus that I may or may not catch. I cannot walk in fear or allow others to steal my joy. My faith in God keeps me in check, and for this, I am grateful.</p><p>In 2020, I have learned that precautionary measures are necessary for the good of the whole. I may not agree with them entirely, but I have chosen to observe the rules for the protection of others. I eagerly look forward to a milestone birthday in February and for another season of Spring to enjoy. Summer swim season is getting closer by the day and being in and around water makes me happy. </p><p>There is much to be thankful for in my life. My word for this new year is "cultivate." I want to cultivate an attitude of gratitude in all things, in all ways, all the time. </p><p>Until next time...</p>Dee Dee Tamburrinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01294709572081378357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531768861731786994.post-84472672526324025292020-12-12T07:56:00.000-05:002020-12-12T07:56:19.455-05:00Against All Odds<p><span style="font-family: inherit;">2020 A.D. Teaching music virtually. </span>COVID19. <span style="font-family: inherit;">Teaching music face-to-face. Posting lessons on Canvas for students at home. Needing rehearsal space. Challenges beyond measure. High points. Low points. Teacher tired. Unresolved Presidential Election. Israeli peace deals with Arab nations. Graduations, weddings, engagements. Sickness. Quarantines. Health. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">I</span>t has been a year, and it isn't over yet. A country divided. A country whose very foundations are being shaken. A country desperately in need of healing. A country desperately in need of God's mercy.</p><p>In the midst of this madness, I was given the task of producing a Christmas musical this year. There is nothing unusual about this request, except that we are currently living in a global pandemic. In my wildest dreams, I never imagined it would happen. Not "live," anyway.</p><p>My journey began in March, while quarantined during the first wave of the SARS2-19 Corona Virus Global Pandemic. I am living in a season of "history in the making." The Spanish Flu of 1918 was the last global pandemic, just over a century ago, and we have come full circle. This is the chronicle of my journey to the manger this year.</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>February, 2020. Pre-COVID. I select a Christmas musical entitled, "Straight Outta Bethlehem."</li><li>Mid-March, 2020. Quarantined. Teaching from my garage at home. Uploading instructional videos daily.</li><li>Request to begin typing up lyric booklets for the musical while at home. Not sure if we will return to school at this point. (We did not return until August)</li><li>June, 2020. Music educators are scrambling because we teach in an ensemble setting. I attend a 3-day webinar on teaching music digitally using Quaver Music Ed as our platform.</li><li>June, 2020. Results from the Arts Aerosol study (U. of Colorado/Boulder) are presented to arts instructors worldwide. "Singing in German and playing the flute/piccolo" spread the most aerosols in an enclosed space. Adequate ventilation required. Masks required. No more than 30-minute rehearsals recommended. Singing outdoors highly preferred.</li><li>July, 2020. Meeting with administration to discuss what my school year will look like. Should I teach digitally? Should I proceed with caution and try to produce the Christmas musical? The response was to produce the musical, knowing it may be pulled in November if we are in a second wave of the virus.</li><li>August, 2020. I begin teaching the music for "Straight Outta Bethlehem" on August 17.</li><li>September, 2020. I audition for the lead roles in the cast on September 12. (Cast of 18)</li><li>After school rehearsals begin on Tuesday, September 15th. We rehearse weekly until Thanksgiving break.</li><li>October, 2020. Technical meeting with church staff. Decision is made to "live" stream the performance due to audience restrictions (limited number of people, socially distanced in auditorium, masks must be worn)</li><li>October 17 - Super Saturday Rehearsal #1. All is well.</li><li>November 21 - Super Saturday Rehearsal #2. All is not well. One of my leads is quarantined and cannot return to school for the next 14 days (which is after the show). I pull a stable animal and ask her to learn the part. </li><li>November 30 - Tech Week 2020 begins. During this week, there are 5 programs that must be rehearsed and performed. Pre-K, Kindergarten, 1st Grade, 2nd grade and the 3rd-5th grade musical. I conduct three of the five.</li><li>All five programs are presented before a "live" audience and to a streamed audience. </li></ul><div>The message of this musical is a simple presentation of the Gospel. "There are no strangers, there are no outcasts, there are no orphans of God" is a lyric from one of the songs in the program. If you have accepted Christ as your Lord and Savior, then you are grafted into the family of God. Satan tried everything in his power to prevent this message from being shared, but because of the live-stream, it was shared coast-to-coast. God used these kids to make a difference in the lives of others this year and to present the Gospel message to anyone who would listen. It was exhausting, especially the "not knowing." Trying to make it work and against all odds, we pulled it off, with God's help. And you know what? I would do it again. And again. And again.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja7Hrw2zkcuN8AXjRCww4VF2Su0VORkNviwPgJj4UDd712bhOEAnsIahINsTrqhHSNRkAPg-su3_4d_fKt90dulNlPuAWRucUkhPHGeRgiZdtml_Whv9_MncGs3NVSGLXhBLd8pLLxxGo/s1024/A+Shepherd%2527s+Story+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja7Hrw2zkcuN8AXjRCww4VF2Su0VORkNviwPgJj4UDd712bhOEAnsIahINsTrqhHSNRkAPg-su3_4d_fKt90dulNlPuAWRucUkhPHGeRgiZdtml_Whv9_MncGs3NVSGLXhBLd8pLLxxGo/s320/A+Shepherd%2527s+Story+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p style="text-align: center;">2nd Grade - "A Shepherd's Story"</p><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh341bd22jKUfHpeN4KKd0SMPUKH3kx97Fk3nrMNwO3OOsZMd2aI6dpTArrwS33pJoJjJpse1gIimi_1r0AsgXa47BsFKxt1_QVGX2MMLtndJHVWjfVDXhcJPg-0_PgOhVRhyphenhyphenEH5QK_Wuk/s1024/Straight+Outt+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh341bd22jKUfHpeN4KKd0SMPUKH3kx97Fk3nrMNwO3OOsZMd2aI6dpTArrwS33pJoJjJpse1gIimi_1r0AsgXa47BsFKxt1_QVGX2MMLtndJHVWjfVDXhcJPg-0_PgOhVRhyphenhyphenEH5QK_Wuk/s320/Straight+Outt+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p style="text-align: center;">Pastor Joby Martin of the Church of Eleven22</p><p style="text-align: center;">doing a devotional with my kids prior to our final rehearsal</p><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT6v5WeyQHaL6WUm6pTifWg9zUNt-k4_rqquFe80bNSZ9ojZmFDnJvn9ZSBmmG4sHxxYvt57cyHm16FMTWqkOk6BBsGe7G0H2f2XvrK6JV-Ndc36Wx_XJmshjr01iCTIqU7DjpivEUT3o/s1080/Straight+Outta+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="810" data-original-width="1080" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT6v5WeyQHaL6WUm6pTifWg9zUNt-k4_rqquFe80bNSZ9ojZmFDnJvn9ZSBmmG4sHxxYvt57cyHm16FMTWqkOk6BBsGe7G0H2f2XvrK6JV-Ndc36Wx_XJmshjr01iCTIqU7DjpivEUT3o/s320/Straight+Outta+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p style="text-align: center;">Cast and Choir of "Straight Outta Bethlehem"</p><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSpgbSewLfzDepzA9J4h6XWVyalLGz4D1qfw0aMh886cddA3vRkCGszrRId8rUE3e-7Yj9MsuYc3xrIdJvu_7hZlbgUze0CVceoR0gVYeXz-yrgxrVbSGhPpnSFSYtyVB8-MgYwfzKGmY/s1440/Straight+Outta+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSpgbSewLfzDepzA9J4h6XWVyalLGz4D1qfw0aMh886cddA3vRkCGszrRId8rUE3e-7Yj9MsuYc3xrIdJvu_7hZlbgUze0CVceoR0gVYeXz-yrgxrVbSGhPpnSFSYtyVB8-MgYwfzKGmY/s320/Straight+Outta+2.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">"Live Stream" - grandparents were so grateful</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Until next time...</div><p></p>Dee Dee Tamburrinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01294709572081378357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531768861731786994.post-70200180094920621872020-11-29T04:49:00.006-05:002020-11-29T04:57:50.682-05:00Teaching Music During a Pandemic<p>As I scan previous posts, I realize I haven't visited my blog since August 3, 2019. It is now November 29, 2020. My life is so full and I haven't had much time to update my readers or post newsworthy items to share with others. For this, I am truly sorry.</p><p>Life changed when my mom passed away. She was my biggest fan, strongest supporter, best audience member - she was the best! My audience at my programs will forever have a gaping hole in it. My sister has done her best to fill it, but it is not the same. I try to wear something of my mother's when I perform - whether I am singing with Voices of Jacksonville or conducting programs at school. It has been a hard transition for me and I am still a "work in progress."</p><p>Teaching during a pandemic (COVID19) has been an incredible challenge for me. I am a music teacher. I do my best work in an ensemble setting. Social distancing, mask-wearing, contactless interactions, etc. have been the bane of my existence since March. Eight months of uncertainty, not really knowing if my programs would happen this Christmas season. My administration has been in the trenches trying to make this work while keeping everyone safe and healthy. My principal, DeShuan Mills, is an extraordinary human who supports me unequivocally. This Thanksgiving holiday has been the most stressful "restful" week for both of us. E-mails, phone calls, text messages abound. Communication is key in a pandemic. Circumstances are fluid and changing by the hour.</p><p>I am pleased to report that we have successfully navigated quarantining of key members of our production team, last minute role changes with leads in the musical, numerous iterations of the program brochure, "to print or not to print," masks or no masks during the production, "live" audience or "live" stream the program, etc. Our questions and concerns have been many. We are working with medical personnel to keep faculty and staff safe while doing our best to maintain a high-quality performance. Tech Week 2020 begins tomorrow and we will be ready!</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW40IWHGskGOShkc0WlPWsglSL09vjfXp85zJKC3-xwAh-k_pEKQapb2HRNSnPfAxTDLTAtu_VWsxrjpH8Veq3ZyLg6N11PdZHRrAkjUaEKhgYd7eq0xnEZ4OxMe2p8gkwDt9QJ3LZIjs/s1920/Straightouta+%2528003%2529_Graphic.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW40IWHGskGOShkc0WlPWsglSL09vjfXp85zJKC3-xwAh-k_pEKQapb2HRNSnPfAxTDLTAtu_VWsxrjpH8Veq3ZyLg6N11PdZHRrAkjUaEKhgYd7eq0xnEZ4OxMe2p8gkwDt9QJ3LZIjs/s320/Straightouta+%2528003%2529_Graphic.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Our team is amazing! 170 voice choir! 17 member cast! The musical will have a live audience (only 4 guests per student so that we can physically distance one family unit from another family unit), it will also be streamed on our website for those who cannot make it to the live performance, masks will be worn by the choir onstage, sets, props, lights, cameras - what an incredible opportunity for my students!</p><p>Teaching in a pandemic has been the most challenging hurdle of my career, but I know God's grace will see us through next week and this program will lift spirits, spread joy and bless others. For this, I am extremely grateful.</p><p>Until next time...</p>Dee Dee Tamburrinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01294709572081378357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531768861731786994.post-89276338448284315352019-08-03T16:55:00.002-04:002019-08-03T16:56:45.494-04:00Year of "Firsts"Well...it's been awhile, folks. I needed time to process the loss of my mother in May, 2018 and my father-in-law in May, 2019 and my dad's sister in July, 2019. I guess I am at that age where the "reality of mortality" has begun to sink in...<br />
<br />
Since my last post (Spring, 2018), I started a new job and have cycled through an entire school year. I began my "Year of Firsts" after my mom passed away and have come full circle. Pre-planning for the 2019-20 school year began July 31st and we are off and running.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAwxFLCahPZu7tK1Xg8v01dnAkxRyvPzhX-FKUjVoVzqxFI1-qhnzKBU9jpmxhxux7ebZnhbrEIBBnLKQowbtGGp7vOidUgB0TXa0X8331SYDtGkj91VU8PzJAsxgd6GimgTws3r4Dnts/s1600/Providence+School_Seal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAwxFLCahPZu7tK1Xg8v01dnAkxRyvPzhX-FKUjVoVzqxFI1-qhnzKBU9jpmxhxux7ebZnhbrEIBBnLKQowbtGGp7vOidUgB0TXa0X8331SYDtGkj91VU8PzJAsxgd6GimgTws3r4Dnts/s1600/Providence+School_Seal.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
I love my new job! I love my principal! I love my Resource Team! It is a joy to be back with the "littles" and laying a strong foundation for music study in middle and high school. (My school services Pre-K3 through 12th grade.) My niece graduated from Providence last year. We had a blast hanging out at school together and she will be deeply missed by many...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7dl2s7GwLghmXL86Au7egXjY9yMQj6JZGGnFa7Zd4l8Kvnh-AfDm4Mb5mibQEGhl0HouOAm5nsJRj2mnkPe9Be6fTDQXR_bkm3xBQrY928x91pW8l40SNInSUIhrHg7_c5XNzoyaQ-h0/s1600/River+City+Women%2527s+Chorus_2019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="915" data-original-width="1600" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7dl2s7GwLghmXL86Au7egXjY9yMQj6JZGGnFa7Zd4l8Kvnh-AfDm4Mb5mibQEGhl0HouOAm5nsJRj2mnkPe9Be6fTDQXR_bkm3xBQrY928x91pW8l40SNInSUIhrHg7_c5XNzoyaQ-h0/s320/River+City+Women%2527s+Chorus_2019.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
River City Women's Chorus 2019</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
My summer break was the best ever! I taught swimming for two weeks (my favorite side hustle). My family traveled to Belize in June and we celebrated our 12th Annual "Family Fun Week" in July. I performed with the River City Women's Chorus (R. Wayne Bailey, Director) and we premiered a new choral work by Elaine Hagenberg entitled, "You Do Not Walk Alone." This piece will be available for purchase in the fall and she even signed my copy!<br />
<br />
I hope to get back to the business of blogging this year. Life has been stressful and caregiving is time-consuming, but I am moving forward and looking forward to a new school year!<br />
<br />
Until next time...<br />
<br />
<br />Dee Dee Tamburrinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01294709572081378357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531768861731786994.post-90138761594883221092018-05-26T09:48:00.000-04:002018-05-26T09:55:33.978-04:00Andrew Simon<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9IUOY19UQ0bKr7wNKKufX5OHHlmhpAKDfUf_4X9FlNXFMqXSbW2bLS3qoP2P48SI08BebUhBEQgNwm8YhnlKylIidp2VsiplFkk0yOy2Xw5U8iE8NBXo54NgnXVVhVPTu3b17E5i__PM/s1600/Simon_Andrew_Women%2527s+Glee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9IUOY19UQ0bKr7wNKKufX5OHHlmhpAKDfUf_4X9FlNXFMqXSbW2bLS3qoP2P48SI08BebUhBEQgNwm8YhnlKylIidp2VsiplFkk0yOy2Xw5U8iE8NBXo54NgnXVVhVPTu3b17E5i__PM/s320/Simon_Andrew_Women%2527s+Glee.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Mr. Simon working with Women's Glee</div>
<br />
Mr. Andrew Simon came into my world in mid-December, 2017. It could not have been a more timely entrance. I hadn't had an intern since 2009. When I was approached by his Music Ed professor at the University of North Florida in October, there was no way I could have known what was heading my way. I agreed to take him on and I am so thankful that I did.<br />
<br />
My mother was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in October, 2016 and had been in remission for the past 18 months. In January, 2018, her cancer returned with a vengeance and she opted not to treat it. We were told she would be gone by June. Mr. Simon was such a gift! He covered my classes when I had to be away supporting my mother. He bonded with my students and they learned so much from him. He lifted my spirit when it was at it's lowest point and we were nearing the end of this chapter in our lives.<br />
<br />
I told Mr. Simon that I was going to have to plan for the worst and hope for the best. Although I had given him Women's Glee as a laboratory choir, he learned all of our music for the Spring concert in case my mom passed away and I could not be there to conduct. He had such a good attitude and assured me he would see me through this and he did. My mother died two days after our concert.<br />
<br />
Mr. Simon graduated from UNF on Friday, April 28th and I know in my heart of hearts we will be forever friends and lifelong colleagues. My heartfelt thanks go out to Dr. Timothy Groulx, Professor Jane Palmer and to Andrew Henry Simon for being my support system (either directly or indirectly) over the past 6 months. I would not have survived this experience without you.<br />
<br />
And to my sweet Momma, who will always be in our hearts....<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu2b9C36yNpqtCeHCTao5nb7F6z6ivDRfG5Ww7ODygfEi1Ipe4pH4EL5LSVwSj_FnFHOjWHKvZbYiK5H-MFIbWR9fWConBIEch5RA7Ocg1iUEWzZstmRUUdB0eLmNGdhLRpFLZUFeiuNs/s1600/JoAnn_floppy+hat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1030" data-original-width="1080" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu2b9C36yNpqtCeHCTao5nb7F6z6ivDRfG5Ww7ODygfEi1Ipe4pH4EL5LSVwSj_FnFHOjWHKvZbYiK5H-MFIbWR9fWConBIEch5RA7Ocg1iUEWzZstmRUUdB0eLmNGdhLRpFLZUFeiuNs/s320/JoAnn_floppy+hat.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Jo Ann Nader Abdullah</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
October 16, 1934</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
May 3, 2018</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Until next time....</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Dee Dee Tamburrinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01294709572081378357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531768861731786994.post-78538790477964969422018-04-28T19:22:00.002-04:002018-04-28T19:22:53.258-04:00Our MascotMy mother is in the fight of her life with a dreaded disease that will eventually take her from us. She desperately wanted to attend my spring concert on May 1st, but knew she would not have the strength to do so. I told her we would "Face Time" her with the chorus and she could watch them perform on the computer. That wasn't good enough. She said, "You tell the kids that's what we're gonna do, but mark my word, I will be there in person to hear them sing!"<br />
<br />
It took 3 caregivers and a wheelchair, but she made it. It was the most precious time I had ever experienced with my mother. She considers herself the official mascot of the Fletcher High School Chorus and wasn't going to miss this opportunity. She knew in her heart of hearts, it would be her last.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNg-ygwJBfaSEagexXQMj6c19BRFe2G9lzpaz7SwuqJcZLNoj0m_Rygd1gg6D_kjcne8T-cW7D8VgDBFbrJw0bh_M9UsH7FL8czuLD4SGRrOrCt5EZylsD3nvOwXdNza9Q6wogp28KfbU/s1600/Mom+visits+FHS+Chorus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1080" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNg-ygwJBfaSEagexXQMj6c19BRFe2G9lzpaz7SwuqJcZLNoj0m_Rygd1gg6D_kjcne8T-cW7D8VgDBFbrJw0bh_M9UsH7FL8czuLD4SGRrOrCt5EZylsD3nvOwXdNza9Q6wogp28KfbU/s320/Mom+visits+FHS+Chorus.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLLpe2R_IKTPLCwBSdPxsP9wZmrSj8TLwsBQ0kmuW7AWp8Sk8v6aInhQCvZStfTTU3Wdop2ZuKQmEjGKlCLXKmJsFpmSgh_wOe9L73X_kef4YHxm7oZnMaG_0ep942qmH6wejntqkPgDg/s1600/Mom+visits+FHS+Chorus_group.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1080" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLLpe2R_IKTPLCwBSdPxsP9wZmrSj8TLwsBQ0kmuW7AWp8Sk8v6aInhQCvZStfTTU3Wdop2ZuKQmEjGKlCLXKmJsFpmSgh_wOe9L73X_kef4YHxm7oZnMaG_0ep942qmH6wejntqkPgDg/s320/Mom+visits+FHS+Chorus_group.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
I may be an absolute mess at our concert on Tuesday, but the concert has been lovingly dedicated to my mother and the kids will give their all for her. That's just the kind of kids I am blessed to teach.<br />
<br />
Until next time....Dee Dee Tamburrinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01294709572081378357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531768861731786994.post-632580623321958122018-01-14T21:14:00.002-05:002018-01-21T05:48:48.140-05:00FMEA 2018 Artistry:Teaching and Performing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju3h2mmrAK_ryYVFm3iH9V2WQaYrqSSNb7PSwnRqfC_qR0UfXEzHUGY_V1b3P82OukGCStJRhRfSOFXU602ijlJeSbWQtePpFIzUSqD3v5wBE4qHdRPHO2aYO601H534X13rgLYAuepmU/s1600/Artistry_Teaching+and+Performing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju3h2mmrAK_ryYVFm3iH9V2WQaYrqSSNb7PSwnRqfC_qR0UfXEzHUGY_V1b3P82OukGCStJRhRfSOFXU602ijlJeSbWQtePpFIzUSqD3v5wBE4qHdRPHO2aYO601H534X13rgLYAuepmU/s200/Artistry_Teaching+and+Performing.jpg" width="200" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">FMEA 2018 </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I recently returned from the Florida Music Educator Association's Professional Development Conference which is held in Tampa, Florida every January. The theme this year was "Artistry: Teaching and Performing." It was a special year for me. It isn't every year that you have both current and former students performing in All-State ensembles all at the same conference. I had FOUR former students and ONE current student perform this weekend. It was a weekend filled with music-making and I could not have been more proud of each of them!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Thursday, January 11th (7:30 p.m.) - The Stetson University Concert Choir performed for conference attendees and TWO of my former students were in the ensemble! This is the top auditioned choir at Stetson University. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The youngest graduated from Douglas Anderson School of the Arts and is a freshman at Stetson. I taught Amber D. at Chets Creek Elementary School. [ I could not catch her after the concert to take a picture :( ]</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The eldest was my student his senior year at Duncan U. Fletcher Senior High School, the school where I currently teach. His name is Jack S.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0dMYsIASeNZvAuRoLJIIYIAc_c3Sl912Q1o0H3D0dpggWuPYxDI-Ij-A5bUta-rA50VhafmJLXbVbrNQY_aO2-4WxLsA92OWPdW3StD2LEtNd67Xsuv3sqF6Wq61n2BYDBp6Yt70rJvI/s1600/Maerkl_Tamburrino_Sumrall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="864" data-original-width="1152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0dMYsIASeNZvAuRoLJIIYIAc_c3Sl912Q1o0H3D0dpggWuPYxDI-Ij-A5bUta-rA50VhafmJLXbVbrNQY_aO2-4WxLsA92OWPdW3StD2LEtNd67Xsuv3sqF6Wq61n2BYDBp6Yt70rJvI/s320/Maerkl_Tamburrino_Sumrall.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jonathan Maerkl (Band/formerly at FHS); Dee Dee Tamburrino (Chorus at FHS)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(Jack played tuba and sang in the chorus)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Currently a performing member of the Stetson Concert Choir</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and is graduating in May, 2018 (music major)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Friday, January 12th (6:00 p.m.) - The All-State Men's Chorus performed in the Grand Ballroom of the Marriott Waterside. My current student, Jack R. spent 18 hours in rehearsal this weekend and countless hours of private study prior to his arrival in Tampa on Wednesday evening. He was representing Duncan U. Fletcher Senior High School and our choral program at All-State this year. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6K8RpKnp9LojcC-g3T-gQ4aZkJGLhOzDmfJ6H3gI5VqX149WSAWB66AxkYfnNSc7B09WgOJysJY3siWOTdos3N7h5aGqaKcQRiGPLMQvR1xV6OkPIWwBzNyp1iQztw7ChYIPWlwP8HlI/s1600/Rowan_FMEA_Tamburrino.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6K8RpKnp9LojcC-g3T-gQ4aZkJGLhOzDmfJ6H3gI5VqX149WSAWB66AxkYfnNSc7B09WgOJysJY3siWOTdos3N7h5aGqaKcQRiGPLMQvR1xV6OkPIWwBzNyp1iQztw7ChYIPWlwP8HlI/s320/Rowan_FMEA_Tamburrino.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jack R. and Mrs. Tamburrino</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
All-State Men's Chorus 2018 </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivkV49RiU4rLuDCnjmKFJh01hQufLiW5x1_uSxEZ6b0_aI5pUTl_DJ_e5MKVInLt08G69MfBSB13GXxEuDG3ufxyprPgBuzkjR4eZ3CROsbwBMFFy0aE7fURzhGlysUNzb_CPwSO5U-34/s1600/Rowan_FMEA_performance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivkV49RiU4rLuDCnjmKFJh01hQufLiW5x1_uSxEZ6b0_aI5pUTl_DJ_e5MKVInLt08G69MfBSB13GXxEuDG3ufxyprPgBuzkjR4eZ3CROsbwBMFFy0aE7fURzhGlysUNzb_CPwSO5U-34/s320/Rowan_FMEA_performance.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Grand Ballroom - Mariott Waterside</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Tampa, Florida</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Saturday, January 13th (9:00 a.m.) - The All-State Treble Chorus performed in the Grand Ballroom of the Marriott Waterside. This performance received 3 standing ovations!! What an incredible experience for my former elementary student who is now at LaVilla School of the Arts. She also sings with the Jacksonville Children's Chorus and recently returned from Rome, Italy where she was privileged to sing for Pope Francis!! </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCQchLf4cTvHuV4s27tysLUg8Xh4GmqNF1j9HvVZPmcpaPlmwM4ygI1haAsyScbhpugmhh_En7UUdnV34ouGS7B2Vb3jkT1VW1T1oYUfdHG0CL1aGZqkVKk5tjejf2MTF22ViG2E1oLGQ/s1600/Hall_FMEA.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCQchLf4cTvHuV4s27tysLUg8Xh4GmqNF1j9HvVZPmcpaPlmwM4ygI1haAsyScbhpugmhh_En7UUdnV34ouGS7B2Vb3jkT1VW1T1oYUfdHG0CL1aGZqkVKk5tjejf2MTF22ViG2E1oLGQ/s320/Hall_FMEA.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Emmie H. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
All-State Treble Chorus 2018 </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Saturday, January 13th (6:30 p.m.) - The All-State Middle School Band, High School Concert Band and High School Symphonic Band performed at the Tampa Convention Center to a packed house. I taught this young lady in elementary school as well. She is currently a student at Douglas Anderson School of the Arts where she plays flute in the band program.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxBjv9_jHoljDY9c2fAh_azL4LNpNginQk11J6SjPiD48VcJKjTnEkJy2sH6CWCJ-uR1gwxraN_RIQBG0pL0wDLxuvSo0wAJSAfkw-LvJ6G0KLUZdQe_a7pgfMVYiZsrIcECAov-EFeC0/s1600/Snow_FMEA.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxBjv9_jHoljDY9c2fAh_azL4LNpNginQk11J6SjPiD48VcJKjTnEkJy2sH6CWCJ-uR1gwxraN_RIQBG0pL0wDLxuvSo0wAJSAfkw-LvJ6G0KLUZdQe_a7pgfMVYiZsrIcECAov-EFeC0/s320/Snow_FMEA.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ashley S. (3rd chair flute)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
All-State Concert Band 2018</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It was a true blessing for me to take part in FMEA this year and witness the "fruit of my labors" in such a profound way. I do my best to instill a love of music-making in all of my students and it is very exciting to see so many of them continuing to pursue their musical passion as they matriculate through K-12 education and move on to college. It is truly a gift for which I am extremely grateful!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Until next time...</div>
Dee Dee Tamburrinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01294709572081378357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531768861731786994.post-83458903745599759902017-12-27T09:25:00.000-05:002017-12-27T09:26:20.646-05:00MetHD ProgramOPERA. Mention the word to high school students and noses wrinkle, eyes roll and heavy sighing ensues. This is a common occurrence in many settings. However, because of the work of so many and a collaborative effort between Duval County Public Schools and Opera Jax, my students get excited and sign up to attend the opera!<br />
<br />
As a choral educator, I am actively involved in the MetHD program in my school district. This is my third year in the program and it has grown each year since we began attending. In order for me to take a group of students to the opera, I must attend an educator's training in the fall. This is required by the Metropolitan Opera in New York City, our parent organization, who provides training materials and a 4-day workshop to a cohort of teachers from our district. Our district sends several teachers to the workshop and they come back and share their insights with us. Teachers from all academic disciplines are invited to participate in this program.<br />
<br />
Opera is a culminating art form which incorporates music (both vocal and instrumental), acting, movement/dance, theatrical aspects of lighting, sound and set design, puppetry, extravagant costuming and libretti that are far-reaching in their scope. When this program began 10 years ago, students were dropped off at a local movie theatre to watch the performance which was streamed "live" from the Metropolitan Opera House in New York. Several years ago, Mr. Lawrence J. DuBow provided funding for an upgrade to the theatre at Douglas Anderson School of the Arts so that we could take our students to DASOTA to watch the opera. The upgrade was approved by the Metropolitan Opera House and we are the only school district in the nation to have our own designated HD theatre for this purpose.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgACXq47IvEaEtN8aDyNXWiq8tc9bIlWS_OTw1Kjelw4BtA-D3zqUb1TrdsokZ5wOIKVClCNicfqxlNVCYT32I3HvOU6sS3MB1qHjT6cU3xd6gDWxHKud-fjkDHMyXQIXD0e9fFAi7RSmo/s1600/P_20171202_100228_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgACXq47IvEaEtN8aDyNXWiq8tc9bIlWS_OTw1Kjelw4BtA-D3zqUb1TrdsokZ5wOIKVClCNicfqxlNVCYT32I3HvOU6sS3MB1qHjT6cU3xd6gDWxHKud-fjkDHMyXQIXD0e9fFAi7RSmo/s200/P_20171202_100228_HDR.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcTpidJFacHrZ0Swuo7gUuiidhLtmFmWVL6NefEycMwTn9cI2I8HmSWabBVQxkYGKavV1IIqrmPz2CwTzji4JySaZVY3RdOxGgpMyRGufnpk2MB1sYjlKprMNr4aQdipk4GygIWyWELbg/s1600/P_20171202_095551_HDR%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcTpidJFacHrZ0Swuo7gUuiidhLtmFmWVL6NefEycMwTn9cI2I8HmSWabBVQxkYGKavV1IIqrmPz2CwTzji4JySaZVY3RdOxGgpMyRGufnpk2MB1sYjlKprMNr4aQdipk4GygIWyWELbg/s200/P_20171202_095551_HDR%25281%2529.jpg" width="150" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Bus transportation is costly, however, I wrote a grant which was funded by the Woman's Club of Jacksonville last year for $1,000 to help defray the cost of procuring transportation to the opera broadcasts. This year, my students will travel to DASOTA to see "Tosca" and "Cendrillon" (the French version of "Cinderella"). We completed our teacher training in early December and I am excited to be able to offer this opportunity to my students in January and in April, 2018.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My heartfelt appreciation goes out to the Arts Office of the Duval County School Board for their vision, OperaJax who coordinates our teacher training, LaVilla School of the Arts who hosts our training every year, Mr. Lawrence J. DuBow and his foundation, the team of teachers who traveled to NYC to bring the training back to us and to the Woman's Club of Jacksonville for helping us with transportation costs to travel to the opera broadcasts. It is such a collaborative effort on the parts of many and we are most grateful for this opportunity.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUByku7Aqo9vjVRrch9_Brd9E8dAKNdy-j4l38h5P_GTR2WKM7duCAe90dcw5OIfRMjA_nFOpJSHIcMBy7x-BHK_H9fGUctV5Ja9dcipFmlJtwrguS9DwC_5cBHHeEUE3_s8yBw0mlpWs/s1600/Tosca_MetHD_2018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="486" data-original-width="649" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUByku7Aqo9vjVRrch9_Brd9E8dAKNdy-j4l38h5P_GTR2WKM7duCAe90dcw5OIfRMjA_nFOpJSHIcMBy7x-BHK_H9fGUctV5Ja9dcipFmlJtwrguS9DwC_5cBHHeEUE3_s8yBw0mlpWs/s320/Tosca_MetHD_2018.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Tosca" - MetHD - 2018</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglMKOvlIvnwOBw-yETI9Xv0zdSbbxRRqMEL6vIqPBFIkKRB1CyWsnZb1gJax0zh4Ga2Xj5xdFJwpvBdIc30diCyvmCK5JpyewS5La84wVrAZfobnoHgLvHFLxrf-shFVaxZ9Wn9OQ_e5M/s1600/Cendrillon_MetHD_2018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="440" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglMKOvlIvnwOBw-yETI9Xv0zdSbbxRRqMEL6vIqPBFIkKRB1CyWsnZb1gJax0zh4Ga2Xj5xdFJwpvBdIc30diCyvmCK5JpyewS5La84wVrAZfobnoHgLvHFLxrf-shFVaxZ9Wn9OQ_e5M/s320/Cendrillon_MetHD_2018.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
"Cendrillon" - MetHD - 2018</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
Until next time...<br />
<br />Dee Dee Tamburrinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01294709572081378357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531768861731786994.post-52890601882641340222017-06-05T18:56:00.000-04:002017-06-05T18:56:27.694-04:00FHS Hall of Honor 2017<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn9hTrrP3mw_nalC0jo9pizFlEggf_1sbEolTsRqcdUApjzoK9_DyjbdwVjbEoG4HzDcOo8wmMrdyFUt8Z0xFSMZ8jEzo2pidhTtisDO3ZnDX21Tlbxpm65MtXCUjzH2AYMrXqhxWjQDc/s1600/Jane+Palmer_Hall+of+Honor.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn9hTrrP3mw_nalC0jo9pizFlEggf_1sbEolTsRqcdUApjzoK9_DyjbdwVjbEoG4HzDcOo8wmMrdyFUt8Z0xFSMZ8jEzo2pidhTtisDO3ZnDX21Tlbxpm65MtXCUjzH2AYMrXqhxWjQDc/s320/Jane+Palmer_Hall+of+Honor.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Mrs. Jane Palmer</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Mrs. Dee Dee Tamburrino</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Today was a very special day. I had the privilege of celebrating a master teacher and my mentor with our faculty. Our lives have been very similar. She was one of five sisters growing up; I was one of four. She began her teaching career at the elementary level and moved up to high school, where she remained for fifteen years. I did the same. I taught for nine years at the elementary level and am now a high school chorus teacher. She taught for 35 years; I'm hoping to reach 20! (I'm a late bloomer!)</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Jane G. Palmer, formerly the chorus teacher at Duncan U. Fletcher Senior High School (where I am currently teaching) was inducted into our "Hall of Honor" today. She will receive a plaque to take home and her name will be added to a plaque in our front office. The PTSA has will also donate a brick in her name at the school.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Jane is a 35-year veteran of Duval County Public Schools. She retired in June, 2013. At Fletcher High School, she was the Performing Arts Department Chair, Teacher of the Year and a dedicated musician who instilled a love of choral music in thousands of students. Her award-winning choirs performed in the Florida Vocal Association's Music Performance Assessments, annually at Disney's Candlelight Processional in EPCOT (Orlando, FL), at the White House in Washington, D.C. and at Carnegie Hall in New York City in 2012.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I have known Jane for many years and it was an honor to celebrate her today. Without her dedication and support, I would not be where I am today. Thank you, Jane, for your for your friendship. I congratulate and celebrate you today!!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Until next time...</div>
Dee Dee Tamburrinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01294709572081378357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531768861731786994.post-3424310028853863172017-02-16T07:37:00.001-05:002017-02-16T07:59:51.363-05:00Teacher Appreciation 2016-17<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY4TX5iOcmzUZyUGxopUtYkrrfMabrljgzLvBqcBfA63fR7vF9ymdLOTLlBPEdWTVdcrF7o0CG6LtUXy2hISjDB5SXZW9A5iG5T305jjoIoxSzkeAMgytWuomEdhSpPHz4xSfljaNBbPU/s1600/Teacher+Appreciation+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY4TX5iOcmzUZyUGxopUtYkrrfMabrljgzLvBqcBfA63fR7vF9ymdLOTLlBPEdWTVdcrF7o0CG6LtUXy2hISjDB5SXZW9A5iG5T305jjoIoxSzkeAMgytWuomEdhSpPHz4xSfljaNBbPU/s320/Teacher+Appreciation+2017.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The collection....</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
As I gaze across my classroom trying to decide where and how to begin my day, I see a memorial of sorts. These are gifts my students have given me over the past several months. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
They include a framed photo of one of my senior girls in her Chorus T-Shirt. She's been with me in chorus for the past four years and wanted to wear her t-shirt in her senior photo session. I was honored by this. It is truly a gift.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Another is a white teddy bear with a Hershey bar and its companion book, "Why You're the Best Teacher Ever" completed in a student's handwriting. It is a fill-in-the-blank book in which she did an amazing job reminding me of why I teach in the first place. I was blessed to glimpse into this child's heart through her writing.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The next is a black and gray monkey with a heart in his hands. This came from a student I have taught since elementary school. He comes from a large family and has very little money. Over the years, I have fed him, clothed him and covered his chorus participation fees. I have done this with a cheerful heart and "as unto the least of these." He is such a blessing in my life.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Today, one of my 6'5" boys rode his skate board to Duncan Donuts to buy me coffee on his way to school. The outside of the cup was completely covered in coffee from the sloshing which occurred on his way from the store to the school. I didn't care. This was such a thoughtful gesture on his part and I was touched by his kindness.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Yesterday, my principal came into my classroom to do my Formal Observation. I had prepared my students for this and explained that "I only get one shot to prove myself as a teacher every year and I chose you to help me be my best. Please be here, be on time, be in the moment and responsive to anything I ask while I'm teaching. I am counting on you to support me in this." The energy, the love, the support, the connection between singer and conductor was astounding. They stepped up and made me shine! There were lots of teachable moments. I am forever grateful for their effort yesterday. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Teaching is tough. These "random acts of kindness" by our students are what get us through the day sometimes. There are days when I am struggling in the classroom. There are days I am questioning myself and wondering if it's time to hang up my "teacher hat." I wear many of them and it is exhausting. When I am really down, I read a "gratitude board" in my office filled with thank-you notes from students and colleagues. On occasion, will scroll through my blog and be uplifted. This is one of those days.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Until next time...</div>
Dee Dee Tamburrinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01294709572081378357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531768861731786994.post-4022342849167561832016-12-28T06:57:00.001-05:002016-12-28T07:26:50.025-05:00Catching Up With 2016Fall Semester has flown by. I enjoy blogging because it gives me an opportunity to reflect. It is evident from the date of my last post that I haven't had much time for reflection lately.<br />
<br />
Reflecting is important for teachers. It is grounding. It helps us center ourselves when the world is swirling around us. It is validating. It is an opportunity for an "atta girl" in the world of academia. It affirms that I am making a difference in the lives of children daily.<br />
<br />
So with this in mind, I am going to do what "Life" magazine, "People" magazine and "Time" magazine do. Present our "year in pictures," thus far....<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXUbw5TWN8CczXHsYmJYRJwCNOQ5Dw6wLcQSqJOAcVOBzWlvC4m7o_gNysYVa9JfCVCz_93viGanA3nOTdUP9JW2M2v_hf4tVY_CqeB9HNMUMNnBNFRRAm1RxpaYjvHHlsC84yU4WnFpQ/s1600/VE_bandana+sale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXUbw5TWN8CczXHsYmJYRJwCNOQ5Dw6wLcQSqJOAcVOBzWlvC4m7o_gNysYVa9JfCVCz_93viGanA3nOTdUP9JW2M2v_hf4tVY_CqeB9HNMUMNnBNFRRAm1RxpaYjvHHlsC84yU4WnFpQ/s320/VE_bandana+sale.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Selling "Spirit Bandanas" at home football games</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd2SUPm85X2CHTiucTnoj6hTFNC3qDmccJsXsedZSBehyphenhyphenv-c4Xii6J0i_RyL0WTmp-RDRRQglWnIQdSWOCGlymsxkLDWY9YNNSk_R8ZA5x0kjZjxxldPfdIUvLXQGqRZYqVj9wvyb7bME/s1600/VE_bus_Shaw+Film.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd2SUPm85X2CHTiucTnoj6hTFNC3qDmccJsXsedZSBehyphenhyphenv-c4Xii6J0i_RyL0WTmp-RDRRQglWnIQdSWOCGlymsxkLDWY9YNNSk_R8ZA5x0kjZjxxldPfdIUvLXQGqRZYqVj9wvyb7bME/s320/VE_bus_Shaw+Film.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Road trip to Douglas Anderson School of the Arts</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
to preview film on the life of one of our greats!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Robert Shaw, Conductor - Atlanta Symphony Chorus<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWlVYObf1k0_p9gbHmuB8vaAywJP-Ufbrhabny7-GG4RG_SLomvw_O5WJ3tiBllGU-QWN2VfiAdVmiX3dSDz-RQdruW_59HyoAlGzcBCdzkRmJGzUAS1Yge4QOlmMUHARv8PGCdYwwrLs/s1600/VE_interns_bundt+cakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWlVYObf1k0_p9gbHmuB8vaAywJP-Ufbrhabny7-GG4RG_SLomvw_O5WJ3tiBllGU-QWN2VfiAdVmiX3dSDz-RQdruW_59HyoAlGzcBCdzkRmJGzUAS1Yge4QOlmMUHARv8PGCdYwwrLs/s320/VE_interns_bundt+cakes.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Edda's Bundt Cake Fundraiser!!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnTf_wK9czjVJmrXWucCAnEU9hTeH_4HLJfOI6SSqPFRSfFkhH8l5aC0RPH7DRLuglUszftI4__O9dMfxk3gPds-SWfix5NCXk8FFdVEK7joHvS4gTYa4MRzWfLvT2B9LIba_Acsbl-TU/s1600/FletcherHighSchoolChoir-2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnTf_wK9czjVJmrXWucCAnEU9hTeH_4HLJfOI6SSqPFRSfFkhH8l5aC0RPH7DRLuglUszftI4__O9dMfxk3gPds-SWfix5NCXk8FFdVEK7joHvS4gTYa4MRzWfLvT2B9LIba_Acsbl-TU/s320/FletcherHighSchoolChoir-2016.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Fall Concert - pushed out two weeks</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
due to Hurricane Matthew</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi84iGJTesJvbGM-rxztJwlHrnw6xEBF3rvTlKrghzDcw-AErxH9ahECgQbfLz3PCFw0nRKDInfTX5c1j8TVWi_J4TPja7OpyZrVBq0v7rDs9ZUuWAmH0rxjXWZnFftiy1x4Dz_PlJ_TFA/s1600/VE_School+Board_Nelson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi84iGJTesJvbGM-rxztJwlHrnw6xEBF3rvTlKrghzDcw-AErxH9ahECgQbfLz3PCFw0nRKDInfTX5c1j8TVWi_J4TPja7OpyZrVBq0v7rDs9ZUuWAmH0rxjXWZnFftiy1x4Dz_PlJ_TFA/s320/VE_School+Board_Nelson.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Performed at the Duval County School Board Meeting</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and bumped into our former principal!<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqAwXN6gwBgv4pTpG4CSiHCpDOks5cSL5ui3KMq9_0yFOidES8qi81k6z_w29f4hUtgCm6dphpvt060SDGXsHDQAWYVSdekaiQFqXOP8_09r8DK_XH7N5xDecQqcbO4UHIXNrv1gPoPak/s1600/LC_ampitheatre_group.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqAwXN6gwBgv4pTpG4CSiHCpDOks5cSL5ui3KMq9_0yFOidES8qi81k6z_w29f4hUtgCm6dphpvt060SDGXsHDQAWYVSdekaiQFqXOP8_09r8DK_XH7N5xDecQqcbO4UHIXNrv1gPoPak/s320/LC_ampitheatre_group.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Rehearsing in the FHS Amphitheatre</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwxAEvQp115zzEUPfPF8SoyxFpI7gTeSKVRatW0YJVsOTXrJoRhXNF9y6qH5ws6JFUxXviVE5NTpDopCHsUXY8AdF0eR_-a3blxKqkhuxyNrBLpEmERfoFGRFeo03yF5s1pEya59pJIi8/s1600/Chorus_Romeo+You+Idiot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwxAEvQp115zzEUPfPF8SoyxFpI7gTeSKVRatW0YJVsOTXrJoRhXNF9y6qH5ws6JFUxXviVE5NTpDopCHsUXY8AdF0eR_-a3blxKqkhuxyNrBLpEmERfoFGRFeo03yF5s1pEya59pJIi8/s320/Chorus_Romeo+You+Idiot.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Chorus Kids in "Romeo, You Idiot"</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Fall Drama Show</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhSTfZVCx-wr9c__RTsljirm-vDskchBK0CZl6Um14Hz3SHZ4fJpDLjKFW7YazFDPgwcV6lLnFzX-FK2rR_enSC_Q3KpOlJa8rJJNdgjq5NO_qoy8fZRLHysI05KHh22MYoutsS6RFmOk/s1600/VE_Jonathan_Mr.+Ugly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhSTfZVCx-wr9c__RTsljirm-vDskchBK0CZl6Um14Hz3SHZ4fJpDLjKFW7YazFDPgwcV6lLnFzX-FK2rR_enSC_Q3KpOlJa8rJJNdgjq5NO_qoy8fZRLHysI05KHh22MYoutsS6RFmOk/s320/VE_Jonathan_Mr.+Ugly.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jonathan - Our very own "Mr. Ugly" winner!!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVZWcgd8PoLgXyJppYLbuuW3FvJgenw-I9AHa890s_GitIoJ_O6FqZC92KK2MVVVmQZYEgEBIpGjhBdvaY5mhiu2OVE-lgWN0vxOaw4RQU_SXIjdYOY7mCAGjTl9jc1t3RVjK-lfX3obE/s1600/VE_Rhoda+Martin+Cultural+Center_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVZWcgd8PoLgXyJppYLbuuW3FvJgenw-I9AHa890s_GitIoJ_O6FqZC92KK2MVVVmQZYEgEBIpGjhBdvaY5mhiu2OVE-lgWN0vxOaw4RQU_SXIjdYOY7mCAGjTl9jc1t3RVjK-lfX3obE/s320/VE_Rhoda+Martin+Cultural+Center_5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Touring the Rhoda L. Martin Cultural Heritage Center</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7BJsrFMAOmgezvaAagzKJ05GzjcxoCymSM_ZVs2prc_d8i7_MojwINmNUrXTvHPpJc09S4go4-uL_JwV2QJj629CVDsiVVfc1H9FKTEe0NUvSgq07njw-Z_M6JemoALB5N-v6A4oPifI/s1600/VE_Rhoda+Martin+Cultural+Center_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7BJsrFMAOmgezvaAagzKJ05GzjcxoCymSM_ZVs2prc_d8i7_MojwINmNUrXTvHPpJc09S4go4-uL_JwV2QJj629CVDsiVVfc1H9FKTEe0NUvSgq07njw-Z_M6JemoALB5N-v6A4oPifI/s320/VE_Rhoda+Martin+Cultural+Center_3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Caroling at the Rhoda L. Martin Cultural Heritage Center<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipvjHDYp3wn8kNKfuiNoqeBjY1oQ9hlS7TDt19ourypf7RcuI9tbKEaLmPDO4TW4EjgkfT-eoRWNk3i3WRfkvcxPO7A6DG0U64n_ORDOkZOWM6kb1LIUK3KdX7xLmAPjAiyhwo55jSRfk/s1600/WG_LC_Emily_Amber_Alena.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipvjHDYp3wn8kNKfuiNoqeBjY1oQ9hlS7TDt19ourypf7RcuI9tbKEaLmPDO4TW4EjgkfT-eoRWNk3i3WRfkvcxPO7A6DG0U64n_ORDOkZOWM6kb1LIUK3KdX7xLmAPjAiyhwo55jSRfk/s320/WG_LC_Emily_Amber_Alena.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Holiday Fun!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF5s_haw79alYHKfMWMRwBhoy1eyEYYJAxsNldMAuZ7BKVtb6CwOHlM747C5Kqc_KFbC5ILKMFTLWAGbX5K7LoKeLyqFs_MySXpxayKQQLiwX4y2Eo6Nt4u0cyz0P1qI8zsG5732oL4no/s1600/VE_InSchool+Performance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF5s_haw79alYHKfMWMRwBhoy1eyEYYJAxsNldMAuZ7BKVtb6CwOHlM747C5Kqc_KFbC5ILKMFTLWAGbX5K7LoKeLyqFs_MySXpxayKQQLiwX4y2Eo6Nt4u0cyz0P1qI8zsG5732oL4no/s320/VE_InSchool+Performance.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Holiday Extravaganza 2016"</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
In-School Performance</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtIP56D8cAZ8CNEx9ksnkWZUNM5HXRs2k4xmc3WKsxPyPALuVcev08JJp9sf-3PVcxkmRXYJ8CK4XPLIXO4QMue_bh_fSg9SxUwSQQOOvpPOvEb5GtJwbf8vYvEbLx0s92EnNRPjElJ7o/s1600/VE_JIA_Brendon_Jordon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtIP56D8cAZ8CNEx9ksnkWZUNM5HXRs2k4xmc3WKsxPyPALuVcev08JJp9sf-3PVcxkmRXYJ8CK4XPLIXO4QMue_bh_fSg9SxUwSQQOOvpPOvEb5GtJwbf8vYvEbLx0s92EnNRPjElJ7o/s320/VE_JIA_Brendon_Jordon.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Holiday Fest" at the</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jacksonville International Airport</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRhtkVe0gZzsk-1D-u6fKKttTvta8rGwNdBW-P_LwzlVmqIKCuim1T144prTNpSvFWaP-ZiYLV_M3HuThUgTY-c5r_78k2TO_8TvdmZfNVi9KLqGYW0i2-iwsHgjcD31H6bcTL_rUTs98/s1600/VE_JIA_Band+Boys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRhtkVe0gZzsk-1D-u6fKKttTvta8rGwNdBW-P_LwzlVmqIKCuim1T144prTNpSvFWaP-ZiYLV_M3HuThUgTY-c5r_78k2TO_8TvdmZfNVi9KLqGYW0i2-iwsHgjcD31H6bcTL_rUTs98/s320/VE_JIA_Band+Boys.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jacksonville International Airport</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgILNNKz8H4dvxRIb8qj19gPEw855taHORGH0MKKKQWquNHufjhGO4zNaP47Pt1m1pUR5SntTpBBYI9gCAYWSqRt2nAdO6Chjqued_eujC0gPjyLY9_yrslGuq_p-B9ws5Ft3KsQohs6ck/s1600/VE_JIA_boys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgILNNKz8H4dvxRIb8qj19gPEw855taHORGH0MKKKQWquNHufjhGO4zNaP47Pt1m1pUR5SntTpBBYI9gCAYWSqRt2nAdO6Chjqued_eujC0gPjyLY9_yrslGuq_p-B9ws5Ft3KsQohs6ck/s320/VE_JIA_boys.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jacksonville International Airport</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimHVWwGX9aAecLEF9bKWxpYZOvmdNE_6fJ8eXzkNvQH03wFiEwH_c-QnnkJVrjUYWgeViGeOuZeZQnDDPMxEhv02Bd0aMHW-GiyvIA4Pgcd4EuWWTWTBc3fgcvmmnA6vsqHpqzxN_bpgQ/s1600/VE_JIA_girls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimHVWwGX9aAecLEF9bKWxpYZOvmdNE_6fJ8eXzkNvQH03wFiEwH_c-QnnkJVrjUYWgeViGeOuZeZQnDDPMxEhv02Bd0aMHW-GiyvIA4Pgcd4EuWWTWTBc3fgcvmmnA6vsqHpqzxN_bpgQ/s320/VE_JIA_girls.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jacksonville International Airport</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW2V5qvhB0T_YmKlI9eRxYhSl6HFkwJ0n0b3ekV7zHAV80ullquk8Ni8-r6EPbfR3u_bosK_5O5i6Q6EO8cDG1yKS88y-2dULHOSE5lGqyq8hPEey8rE4VEi69dUW0kmWjBtGdjrtijbk/s1600/VE_JIA_Katelynne_Claudia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW2V5qvhB0T_YmKlI9eRxYhSl6HFkwJ0n0b3ekV7zHAV80ullquk8Ni8-r6EPbfR3u_bosK_5O5i6Q6EO8cDG1yKS88y-2dULHOSE5lGqyq8hPEey8rE4VEi69dUW0kmWjBtGdjrtijbk/s320/VE_JIA_Katelynne_Claudia.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jacksonville International Airport<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTvtdFkeVrSymdEtzI2VDQO7FgpP1DBs7bRK-_GftJ-eUq0yfqWDLkhTdKUp_REWvStlLOjvxkbxcKsKBvF6FXrlUfREsk9Kz4T1B14SLr_7d3P1eGaooeIrXXPc0fXWJ8ti-wyVuRTiU/s1600/VE_Blaze+Pizza.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTvtdFkeVrSymdEtzI2VDQO7FgpP1DBs7bRK-_GftJ-eUq0yfqWDLkhTdKUp_REWvStlLOjvxkbxcKsKBvF6FXrlUfREsk9Kz4T1B14SLr_7d3P1eGaooeIrXXPc0fXWJ8ti-wyVuRTiU/s320/VE_Blaze+Pizza.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Blaze Pizza - River City Marketplace</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Gotta feed 'em!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSf_YakWvS0D58zgofjN2TjPcfp5s5UnAML_nMeD6h9kbC2OwkGAZcFQHQVoLhe-lweatPtCIC6VQzuMR4yhJ25gmREHqa2jYb4ikX9LzJIySZ-3MNEEQNlfwA5zFsy7s4ChJ00BCp_vM/s1600/VE_Harbor+Chase.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSf_YakWvS0D58zgofjN2TjPcfp5s5UnAML_nMeD6h9kbC2OwkGAZcFQHQVoLhe-lweatPtCIC6VQzuMR4yhJ25gmREHqa2jYb4ikX9LzJIySZ-3MNEEQNlfwA5zFsy7s4ChJ00BCp_vM/s320/VE_Harbor+Chase.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Caroling at Harbor Chase Memory Care Facility</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9M2LcpxKcnI8I7V9LRSX_937b7v2HUJykR5DyQTA05svBdI2wxlRhhJa7Go28s5A88n8coGT3OkuYSTOoGJoVTDUMzLy2GhJHCiGXt0QDDJND3GV2Vfz42ufuypwa3adVi777XQmSYxs/s1600/VE_Sliders.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9M2LcpxKcnI8I7V9LRSX_937b7v2HUJykR5DyQTA05svBdI2wxlRhhJa7Go28s5A88n8coGT3OkuYSTOoGJoVTDUMzLy2GhJHCiGXt0QDDJND3GV2Vfz42ufuypwa3adVi777XQmSYxs/s320/VE_Sliders.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Interact Fundraiser - Slider's - Neptune Beach</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmKDKaq5gx5tXuyteo7RVQm0ZVSNvHLvno5htvAV7Mj0rBUeCrFzEH7fveES1JsIfrRNmguTu7kO_9_j6h-LeTMFN1E8x7RXUmzoisKTmr9SBw4tbpI5cM2uh58ePWvJIZW8C9lF3xgQI/s1600/VE_Destinations+Unlimited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmKDKaq5gx5tXuyteo7RVQm0ZVSNvHLvno5htvAV7Mj0rBUeCrFzEH7fveES1JsIfrRNmguTu7kO_9_j6h-LeTMFN1E8x7RXUmzoisKTmr9SBw4tbpI5cM2uh58ePWvJIZW8C9lF3xgQI/s320/VE_Destinations+Unlimited.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Destinations Unlimited to DeLand and Tampa</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVMHF_eDim_zLqTQA1ri3Jqyo842vw25pxJGMVSPH59sOMIAy7XFUywT-Mkiy1vo4ulkuxjfWUxBbo8DwILcgdasCM-aQM8RWAUAO0dPgTxbC8E1XTxfpnwql9B8t1u8aQLhCEHJ1PsMI/s1600/VE_Stetson+Mansion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVMHF_eDim_zLqTQA1ri3Jqyo842vw25pxJGMVSPH59sOMIAy7XFUywT-Mkiy1vo4ulkuxjfWUxBbo8DwILcgdasCM-aQM8RWAUAO0dPgTxbC8E1XTxfpnwql9B8t1u8aQLhCEHJ1PsMI/s320/VE_Stetson+Mansion.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Stetson Mansion - DeLand, Florida</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOmIu4ZkApzTwl-5Az_An6ThDHZnDMIKmIhkv6JSmP4IIBLGFJMGOA-xxwJJ5peGWIsQ7vKGai2s6eJf_hVKu3w0fo10EeQwT7Sj9Xp7HB4TT1dVWyqx7s3LVhj_LCGbObjyZfag7cVOo/s1600/VE_Stetson+Mansion_Group.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOmIu4ZkApzTwl-5Az_An6ThDHZnDMIKmIhkv6JSmP4IIBLGFJMGOA-xxwJJ5peGWIsQ7vKGai2s6eJf_hVKu3w0fo10EeQwT7Sj9Xp7HB4TT1dVWyqx7s3LVhj_LCGbObjyZfag7cVOo/s320/VE_Stetson+Mansion_Group.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Performance at Stetson Mansion</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiheMg_WEIiSsnweQvXnmx42xJcrFg55vY4772Fx2HzFsi-DphvhAiitv-yKrosg7hI0ZOxSdIMBoH9iAOQQorTkzYM8drt4IizLv9XBV6nELXhd6LdPPcpSPFliFmHJWsU4dpZnDFkrjY/s1600/VE_Stetson+Mansion_Tour.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiheMg_WEIiSsnweQvXnmx42xJcrFg55vY4772Fx2HzFsi-DphvhAiitv-yKrosg7hI0ZOxSdIMBoH9iAOQQorTkzYM8drt4IizLv9XBV6nELXhd6LdPPcpSPFliFmHJWsU4dpZnDFkrjY/s320/VE_Stetson+Mansion_Tour.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Tour of Stetson Mansion</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhwkSwygOkQ8BplqW1xrIcn8ovRfrelH_YFr67nJ1a1oX9FpEMk02E5qBFOBuzMoediJAjLuskGgpfiVQSAgHXOhA9JK6zgAlTvcEHFk7KOvE61WFwUDuG8bVTUR6sIkrTpI8yhumWwlA/s1600/VE_Busch+Gardens_Holiday+Showcase.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhwkSwygOkQ8BplqW1xrIcn8ovRfrelH_YFr67nJ1a1oX9FpEMk02E5qBFOBuzMoediJAjLuskGgpfiVQSAgHXOhA9JK6zgAlTvcEHFk7KOvE61WFwUDuG8bVTUR6sIkrTpI8yhumWwlA/s320/VE_Busch+Gardens_Holiday+Showcase.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Christmas Town - Busch Gardens, Tampa</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrGFxYUbEmie2UGcT7gLp4YjDr9-cqxHZOQMOXpnDHEMDBbHvSJ7ndBmbuUN_GqxUuejZpsHvtdGaUk58jbtE_Rx-x6C31fdEQB03TvrnAH08rwJAFMRXfm5kRHdt_ONu0lFnXYjcLfnc/s1600/VE_Busch+Gardens_Marrakesh.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrGFxYUbEmie2UGcT7gLp4YjDr9-cqxHZOQMOXpnDHEMDBbHvSJ7ndBmbuUN_GqxUuejZpsHvtdGaUk58jbtE_Rx-x6C31fdEQB03TvrnAH08rwJAFMRXfm5kRHdt_ONu0lFnXYjcLfnc/s1600/VE_Busch+Gardens_Marrakesh.JPG" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Busch Gardens - Marrakesh Theatre</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
December 22, 2016</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Until next time....</div>
<br />Dee Dee Tamburrinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01294709572081378357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531768861731786994.post-15590062545262734212016-09-10T21:44:00.002-04:002016-09-10T21:44:22.245-04:00The 5th BassLast night, I was given the incredible honor of playing "The 5th Bass" with my school's drumline. <br />
Now, for the back story....<br />
<br />
I always wanted to be a percussionist in the marching band. My dad said, "Drums are for boys!" and refused to allow me to play. My entire childhood was spent at the high school football field every Friday night. I watched my aunt play flute, my cousin play the tenor drums, my sister play flute/piccolo and my baby sister twirl flags with the colorguard. And there I sat. Wishing. Hoping. Longing to play percussion and march with the band. I had to settle for sitting next to the band at every game, working in the concession stand at the game or chaperoning the band on trips after I graduated from college. It was the best I could offer.<br />
<br />
This is my fourth year at the Fletcher High and my third band director in four years. Every one of these guys has honored me by allowing me to march in a parade, clang a cymbal, shake a tambourine and play The 5th Bass. <br />
<br />
To be honest, I did not know what that meant, but I wasn't going to pass up an opportunity to fulfill a lifelong dream. The fellow that was on the drum graciously stepped aside so I could play his part. The 5th Bass is the largest drum they had on the line. I had the time of my life and a few minutes of glory as part of an actual drumline.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilvqsmzqDthe9_sx_pd8aJMxCRHkYR1ZPcLYjR6DO4yZWuummeTQJWkJZDECE5w_cTqf6I5mJui_XjIOhhZakZt_YfeGFtpCVC95hEj57-2Fw2CAnbu8t_1SvFNGYlxeayE7wSpVwq3qA/s1600/20160909_193444.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilvqsmzqDthe9_sx_pd8aJMxCRHkYR1ZPcLYjR6DO4yZWuummeTQJWkJZDECE5w_cTqf6I5mJui_XjIOhhZakZt_YfeGFtpCVC95hEj57-2Fw2CAnbu8t_1SvFNGYlxeayE7wSpVwq3qA/s320/20160909_193444.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I missed out on the parade last year because of a broken toe. They asked if I would march again this year. My answer is and always will be a resounding "YES!!!"<br />
<br />
Until next time....Dee Dee Tamburrinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01294709572081378357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531768861731786994.post-5616809105400929142016-09-02T14:38:00.002-04:002016-09-02T14:40:47.778-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH85XNQ0kKafsihdCdMmZoNvQFf-4nWPwq9QeK-i7HgflDwPoFrX6XVS8ciZr-Rzpn3vvIJt5ZcQj7CPr56hJRQfCLYcedhKeIHqpWtC6xdUomAUDBrtVadd4aJVd1gol3_JNT5GS36Xw/s1600/P_20160829_171222.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH85XNQ0kKafsihdCdMmZoNvQFf-4nWPwq9QeK-i7HgflDwPoFrX6XVS8ciZr-Rzpn3vvIJt5ZcQj7CPr56hJRQfCLYcedhKeIHqpWtC6xdUomAUDBrtVadd4aJVd1gol3_JNT5GS36Xw/s320/P_20160829_171222.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Top-Notch Customer Service</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
George's Music Jacksonville Beach, FL</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
If you ever need a hand stocking your classroom with sound equipment or instruments, may I recommend George's Music Jacksonville Beach, FL. I was desperate for more keyboards and keyboard stands which my principal said he would purchase AND HE DID!!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
My keyboard classes are large. In one class, I have 33 students. In the other class, I have 27 students. The problem is that I only have 18 working keyboards in my room, so my students are doubled-up on them. This is both good and bad. Since "Middle C" sits in the center of the piano, neither student is actually playing where they should be playing on the keyboard. What they are reading on the staff is not where they are actually playing on the piano. This could be cumbersome later on if they choose to continue their study of this particular instrument, but for our purposes in a semester course, we manage.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The good news is that being paired with another student allows them to help each other. I cannot always circulate through a classroom filled with a grand piano, digital keyboards, students, and backpacks, etc. Peer-tutoring has worked really well in our learning environment and I have maintained that protocol from the beginning.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This year, my administration added a new twist and placed a handful of Keyboard II students within my Keyboard I classes. This model fulfills the mandate for "differentiated instruction" because both groups are in different places in the curriculum and I am teaching both simultaneously. I work with one group and ask them to practice independently while I dash to the keyboard at the front of the classroom to work with my Keyboard II students. This is definitely not ideal, but I'm making it work because I am "Super Teacher" and that's what I do.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsxD_YK5UJrUQr1bUMqdDYWkDRVfV4wcQIRGIDUOd1QOFnjFBCypAbmrEC80sDa-R0Lf5d6cerpsHz-e4pv8Socu7lJcQBKNo3ov_uG4QZisB9RPeQqILXj0TDIFJBnV8s37hs3xrQosg/s1600/super+teacher.jpe" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsxD_YK5UJrUQr1bUMqdDYWkDRVfV4wcQIRGIDUOd1QOFnjFBCypAbmrEC80sDa-R0Lf5d6cerpsHz-e4pv8Socu7lJcQBKNo3ov_uG4QZisB9RPeQqILXj0TDIFJBnV8s37hs3xrQosg/s1600/super+teacher.jpe" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The sales representative above is the brother of a student I taught in elementary school. He's getting ready to head to Nashville to live his dream. I was fortunate enough to speak to him first at the store and he saw my purchase through to the end. He allowed me to pick up the keyboard stands before the keyboards arrived. He even volunteered to deliver the keyboards to the school so I did not have to return to the store to pick them up. The folks at George's Music Jacksonville Beach go above and beyond to make certain your shopping experience is a great one. I highly recommend them!!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
George's Music is located at 912 Third Street South, Jacksonville, Beach, FL 32250. 904.270.2220.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Give 'em a call. Tell 'em Mrs. Tamburrino sent you.<br />
<br />
Until next time...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Dee Dee Tamburrinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01294709572081378357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531768861731786994.post-63155425516253350222016-08-04T21:04:00.001-04:002016-08-05T06:05:48.109-04:00Music Filing System - Finally!Projects. I love them. I love tackling a project and seeing it through to completion. I am driven and very task-oriented. My "To Do" list is always full. I even have a notepad by my computer at school that says, "I love lists!" I know what you're thinking. And yes, I am a bit OCD when it comes to being able to function in my corner of the world. I am a woman with a plan. Always. <br />
<br />
For three years, I struggled to figure out how to move 800+ titles of choral music out of six broken down filing cabinets that had been in use since the school opened in 1962. That's 54 years' worth of stuff. My classroom is smaller than most choral classrooms, so it was quite a challenge. Then, I had to procure the funding for a filing system that would serve our purposes and fit along a wall in my classroom. I did several internet searches looking for just the right system and then approached my principal.<br />
<br />
After negotiating with my principal for 3 years, he finally purchased a new music filing system for me. My choral librarian from last year helped transfer all of the files from the filing cabinets into the new system before she graduated. My choral librarian this year helped me catalogue all of the music in the new system so that the company could create labels for the system and simplify the process of locating music.<br />
<br />
I am very happy to report that at 4:20 p.m. today (3 days before school officially opens), we finally finished the project. I am still waiting for the roll-top doors to be installed, but that's another blog post for another day.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgSfnKgrzvCTaBR7BnZFwVEjMGOSeQIPyi2N7m1kssUBwQlk_6ly73IVjsR0dQFetgJ3y7jW8Bg-9TjRUpdPl7yyPh9Mqi7acLHCN-XFFrMEq0f86ufvwHCs8Dshwz6BflgBY_rJp1YUs/s1600/P_20160804_161749.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgSfnKgrzvCTaBR7BnZFwVEjMGOSeQIPyi2N7m1kssUBwQlk_6ly73IVjsR0dQFetgJ3y7jW8Bg-9TjRUpdPl7yyPh9Mqi7acLHCN-XFFrMEq0f86ufvwHCs8Dshwz6BflgBY_rJp1YUs/s320/P_20160804_161749.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Music Filing System</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh69TaPYl1oMalJHgAoQpCwKT0Ad84Aqf4tlzrrvBT2FIPosISQlqFbUmXeG2g7uIMvImSej8Q4e0RyzbR7-KKR1UGJQHOO70wfAu93b-RdPlS1kA-34y7RKWK9bEgPjYZYRd6qT0hIrVw/s1600/P_20160803_085153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh69TaPYl1oMalJHgAoQpCwKT0Ad84Aqf4tlzrrvBT2FIPosISQlqFbUmXeG2g7uIMvImSej8Q4e0RyzbR7-KKR1UGJQHOO70wfAu93b-RdPlS1kA-34y7RKWK9bEgPjYZYRd6qT0hIrVw/s320/P_20160803_085153.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Title, Composer/Arranger, Voicing</div>
<br />
Yay Team!!<br />
<br />
Until next time...Dee Dee Tamburrinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01294709572081378357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531768861731786994.post-62141173205348020142016-06-24T11:04:00.004-04:002016-06-24T11:04:43.272-04:00How I Spent My Summer Vacay<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwJH2fo2i08WT1cVtDKFhycpQB9Jl40G3QB_DBQAqF7dE4kETiMxUE64JqqSv-EF8J1OqryUQdMicD2-VzViF5ypSQG1Mfo1Yi2BV2cFJNIq2ckM90RK6wWzEDw0kht96mSJxMeLvXF6A/s1600/Camp+Textbook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwJH2fo2i08WT1cVtDKFhycpQB9Jl40G3QB_DBQAqF7dE4kETiMxUE64JqqSv-EF8J1OqryUQdMicD2-VzViF5ypSQG1Mfo1Yi2BV2cFJNIq2ckM90RK6wWzEDw0kht96mSJxMeLvXF6A/s320/Camp+Textbook.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
New Chorus books!! Thank you, DCPS!!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
As I scroll through friends' Facebook postings, I see folks traveling the world, hanging with family, visiting new places, hiking, swimming, fishing, going to the movies and attending various camps during the summer. Well...this is how I spent my summer vacation. At CAMP TEXTBOOK!! </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
They arrive from the School Book Depository (the SBD) on pallets by the hundreds. Each book is new, untouched and boxed in a cardboard cocoon. I am responsible for attaching a 2-part barcode to each book - one on the front cover and one inside the back cover - in case one of the covers go missing with repeated use by students.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I work with the drama teacher on this little project every summer. The Assistant Principal in charge of textbooks cannot complete the task alone, so we volunteered to assist so that books would be available when school reconvened in August. We did this last year. We came back for more this year. It is a mindless task that keeps us "Type A's" busy for weeks. We look forward to it. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The Assistant Principal was heading out of the country for a week and left us a 3-page instruction sheet on what she needed done while she was away. In two days, we completed every task on the list. We will get a new set of instructions when she returns. By then, there will be more pallets and more books to barcode.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
When I was in elementary school, I distinctly remember writing an essay at the start of every school year entitled, "How I Spent My Summer Vacation." My essay is now complete!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Until next time... </div>
Dee Dee Tamburrinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01294709572081378357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531768861731786994.post-11492032139064181542016-06-15T06:44:00.002-04:002016-06-15T17:13:15.874-04:00"It's a Wrap!" 2016Another school year has come to an end. There are days you think you'll never make it to the end. And other days, when you think, "where has all the time gone?" The older I become, time seems to slip through my fingers much more quickly.<br />
<br />
Teaching is an interesting profession. It is the only profession I know where the employee has to set up their workspace at the beginning of the year and break it down ten months later. We are asked to remove everything off the floors and walls so that our summer custodial crew can prepare the building for the next year. We turn in our keys, even though we will be back in 54 days. After 12 years of teaching, I still find this a rather odd practice.<br />
<br />
<br />
For the record, I had multiple projects unfold simultaneously in my classroom this year. My classroom is small for a chorus room. There is limited storage space in my classroom. For three years, I have been working on re-arranging, re-organizing and making my workspace functional, inviting and user-friendly. Since I have been at my school, I have purchased hundreds of dollars worth of new music and had nowhere to store it. I had 6 defunct filing cabinets in a tiny space that were cram-jammed full of music. Some of the music was so old, it cost $.20 for an octavo. Most octavos nowadays cost $1.95 each. <br />
<br />
My music filing system has been a three-year, ongoing project. Funding had to be secured. The System had to be purchased. 60-year old cubbies had to be removed. The System had to be installed where the cubbies used to live. All of the music had to be transferred from 54-year old filing cabinets into the new System (Thank you, Stephanie!!) The entire process broke down when the doors for the System were damaged by the freight carrier who delivered them back in April. This project would have been completed before the end of the year had this not happened....UGH!!<br />
<br />
As you can see in the bottom photo, the new doors are still resting in their shipping coffin and sitting on the floor waiting to be installed. I made several attempts to schedule the installation before the final bell rang this year, but I couldn't make it happen. FRUSTRATION!!<br />
<br />
In the meantime, I decided to clean out the keyboard closet and move the old filing cabinets out so we could figure out a way to install racks on which to hang 21 keyboards. Another unfinished project....SAY IT ISN'T SO!!<br />
<br />
If you know me at all, you know that I need closure in my world. I am not at rest until the compartments of my life are packaged up nicely and neatly with a red bow on top.<br />
<br />
My school year still has a gaping hole in it. Doors on the floor. Keyboards on the floor. At this point, I'm not sure when or how my little projects will be completed. The custodians cannot strip and wax my floors with the doors in their final resting place. Drama Dude said he'd figure out a way to hang the keyboards. So now we wait..... <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRV6LFE-0yq8oUqOXDWrcRKtIoOiWYg0IBqYXBOy4q3GLwsaO_RfATBAxoMgyFVOy0hwrc6jG-KN2EAFTvRPLtNDshl4guRKOrHCw_8zHbWOHt-X8kIPnx-4B25ofuXtLXiPDSH9-g8JY/s1600/P_20160614_085744.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRV6LFE-0yq8oUqOXDWrcRKtIoOiWYg0IBqYXBOy4q3GLwsaO_RfATBAxoMgyFVOy0hwrc6jG-KN2EAFTvRPLtNDshl4guRKOrHCw_8zHbWOHt-X8kIPnx-4B25ofuXtLXiPDSH9-g8JY/s320/P_20160614_085744.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Keyboard closet where music was formally filed.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
No more filing cabinets!! YAY!! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaT2BAI_IPrGJAsvzQPO4j8P7INdjraynKH6jkHOzS5UoBNMVzerGGfDDw89zZqQA-J2QVsBDWSDvHbTNGegFJNLvVyLFWkXAqdxg49MT3Gz5y1dJuBg47Z9K90RFQ8dmjC70yWKVJ30M/s1600/P_20160614_121009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaT2BAI_IPrGJAsvzQPO4j8P7INdjraynKH6jkHOzS5UoBNMVzerGGfDDw89zZqQA-J2QVsBDWSDvHbTNGegFJNLvVyLFWkXAqdxg49MT3Gz5y1dJuBg47Z9K90RFQ8dmjC70yWKVJ30M/s320/P_20160614_121009.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Electronics covered.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Bulletin boards refreshed for next year.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiavfKGDD_Cwq7qnUnMWp1w3Ahq4egxQkqDH4wP8cyDLoFcrCBB9fdf3205YHf5M6Ukpaxi7C9VsyKWWTxr4WUd6CN2z9o6_HguzjK8DfNoPrT4tb4bmLLkYrAeIRymU2FcPDBb0JOAiOw/s1600/P_20160614_131122.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiavfKGDD_Cwq7qnUnMWp1w3Ahq4egxQkqDH4wP8cyDLoFcrCBB9fdf3205YHf5M6Ukpaxi7C9VsyKWWTxr4WUd6CN2z9o6_HguzjK8DfNoPrT4tb4bmLLkYrAeIRymU2FcPDBb0JOAiOw/s320/P_20160614_131122.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
New Music Filing System (doors on the floor).</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Classroom stripped down for custodial crew.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Exhaustion. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I would like to thank Brandon Lesando for his assistance yesterday with the filing cabinets. I could never have accomplished this task without his help. Drama Dude will come through; he always does. At this point, I cannot vouch for the installers. Unfinished business. My least favorite thing ever!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Until next time...</div>
Dee Dee Tamburrinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01294709572081378357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531768861731786994.post-31994096091421031892016-05-20T16:53:00.001-04:002016-05-20T21:02:04.785-04:00Grandma's Mini ConcertSometimes in life, we are called upon to look beyond ourselves and bless others with the gifts we have been given. This could mean something as simple as paying for the person's order in the drive-through behind you or mowing a neighbor's lawn because they are not able to do so themselves. I must share a story with you that speaks to a deeper level of humanity not ordinarily exhibited by teenagers and restores my faith in this generation affectionately dubbed "The Millennials."<br />
<br />
What I am about to share is a true story that occurred in my classroom yesterday. I teach high school chorus. My class creed hangs on my wall - "Great Music, Better People." I was witness to an extraordinary outpouring of kindness towards another human being by my students yesterday and my hope is that this experience will remain with them for many years to come.<br />
<br />
Our Spring concert was last week. It was our final concert of the year. This was one senior's last opportunity to sing with his high school chorus prior to graduation. His grandmother had been in the hospital all week and was extremely ill. She was devastated that she could not attend her grandson's final concert. This young man pulled me aside and asked if there was any way his grandmother could come to school one day before the seniors left and listen to the choir perform one song. Just one. I looked at my student and said, "If she is physically able, have her come. If she is not physically able to come, we will go to her. Is she still in the hospital?" He told me she was recuperating at home.<br />
<br />
At 1:00 p.m. yesterday, this young man's grandmother and grandfather walked into our classroom. She was wearing a portable heart monitor. We sat them down in a chair and my beautiful choir gave an encore presentation of their music that was sung at our concert last week. At the conclusion of our mini-concert, the grandmother was weeping. I knelt down beside her and gave her a hug. She said, "Thank you for doing this for me. No one has ever done anything like this for me before." Then I began to weep. It was one of the most touching experiences I've ever shared with another person. You could feel the joy in the air as my students witnessed the blessing of giving the gift of music to another human being. It was a treasure that only they could give; only this group at only this time.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDQ_Xka5ogsL9NzFBrz6TdaZduk4NCDdZRkOtUCQNgCutZAdi0Juf1VwNLMePIW32urW952wPZ5o-Z5ua7p5wjuX_TghIOZ-4QzgDfb7Q9W7Gy5AUAl2ipMNzg0a75eQUPVxLEY71g1w8/s1600/Grandma+Copeland.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDQ_Xka5ogsL9NzFBrz6TdaZduk4NCDdZRkOtUCQNgCutZAdi0Juf1VwNLMePIW32urW952wPZ5o-Z5ua7p5wjuX_TghIOZ-4QzgDfb7Q9W7Gy5AUAl2ipMNzg0a75eQUPVxLEY71g1w8/s320/Grandma+Copeland.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Men's Ensemble performing "Vive L'Amour"</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
which means "Long Live Love!"</div>
<br />
I shared this story with 96 people who attended our chorus banquet last night. It was fresh and it was beautiful and I had to share it. So many people were touched by this story that I had to share it here as well.<br />
<br />
To my students who blessed this woman beyond measure - THANK YOU! You are the reason I get up in the morning, get dressed and show up for another day of music-making in a public high school. I am extremely proud to call you my students. You have become "Better People" in the time that I have known you. May your legacy live on long after you graduate.<br />
<br />
Until next time...Dee Dee Tamburrinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01294709572081378357noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531768861731786994.post-16168561161363494082016-04-25T18:20:00.002-04:002016-04-25T18:20:32.062-04:00Teacher of the QuarterO.K., Folks. Today has been an awesome day. It isn't everyday that an entourage of family, friends, an Assistant Principal and several PTSA Board Members storm your room and shower you with blessings. I was completely taken by surprise when they announced the reason for their visit.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1n5rsNsEz_WisJW4fCtk3UNV8uRzWRxfYfh4cYdtTRrAwNN7AgjMlZjPSD2OiNGHi0HQ90hV1SXpf3A0jz1gZr1uK77kBQfmrFMfJu-Dfi2MYzxx-5zPNLqSaUqp62sKuKNP9UgPOI7I/s1600/Teacher+of+the+Quarter.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1n5rsNsEz_WisJW4fCtk3UNV8uRzWRxfYfh4cYdtTRrAwNN7AgjMlZjPSD2OiNGHi0HQ90hV1SXpf3A0jz1gZr1uK77kBQfmrFMfJu-Dfi2MYzxx-5zPNLqSaUqp62sKuKNP9UgPOI7I/s320/Teacher+of+the+Quarter.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
My students voted me the new "Teacher of the Quarter." They gave me flowers, a plaque, a prime parking space, lots of hugs and a $100 gift card to Outback Steakhouse. It was just as good as "Teacher of the Year" and I didn't have to complete the ominous packet to compete with everyone else!!<br />
<br />
<br />
My heartfelt thanks go out to my students who make my job interesting, exciting and filled with music everyday. <br />
<br />
O, Happy Day.......<br />
Dee Dee Tamburrinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01294709572081378357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531768861731786994.post-33865472612537817312016-04-02T19:33:00.001-04:002016-04-07T06:06:19.176-04:00The Week That WasI knew it was coming. I prepared mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually during Spring break which was the week prior to "The Week That Was." This week actually began on Tuesday, March 29th - our first day back from Spring Break 2016.<br />
<br />
I have decided that Spring Break is just a tease....a big tease, in preparation for summer break. Waking up without an alarm, chilling with friends, hitting the beach, fishing on the pier, reading a good novel -- this is my idea of an awesome Spring Break. I'm always too tired to travel. The thought of packing a bag to go anywhere does not excite me. By this time of the year, I am tired. Really tired. Spring Break is the week I use to re-charge my batteries. I'm top-tier when it comes to "doing." I'm lower than pond scum when it comes to just "being." Spring Break is my time to just "be."<br />
<br />
We returned to school on Tuesday. On Wednesday, we took our Senior Photo at the beach in full concert regalia, then headed back to school for a 2-hour rehearsal for State Solo and Ensemble with our accompanist. Thursday, we had a 4-hour technical rehearsal for our annual talent showcase. It would not have lasted that long, but the breaker blew while our lighting designer was recording light cues for the show and had to start all over. Friday, April 1st - our "Fletcher's Got Talent" talent showcase took the stage!! I was at school from 6:30 a.m. until 9:30 p.m. yesterday. Today - I took a bus load of 25 students to see a "live" stream of "Madame Butterfly" in HD. Yes...24 high school chorus students, one keyboard student and two chaperones on a Saturday to see an opera. It was awesome!! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgafqPSn_HYtXTdVYX9uHsyVeOTBS2oS2zU0sqpzPAgH_U25ZRI4ysJgPd9_6lz-IheaRKexcCFeE_Xfpv8E-Hi8ZHViBDiBPwFNXNF1oAXVJZQ2Fxqfe1KZKzrHo2c6U0WOohUBLod2hA/s1600/Seniors+photo+2016.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgafqPSn_HYtXTdVYX9uHsyVeOTBS2oS2zU0sqpzPAgH_U25ZRI4ysJgPd9_6lz-IheaRKexcCFeE_Xfpv8E-Hi8ZHViBDiBPwFNXNF1oAXVJZQ2Fxqfe1KZKzrHo2c6U0WOohUBLod2hA/s320/Seniors+photo+2016.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Seniors - 2016</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHlK6CuGthFdKFOiLGLR5xp8YdklVN6Yn2pV9SbVhJlkK_BqJQkx97gLag2SejRbr21Ls2TjSb4vp1g8J0LkDn5bqIWuVydWl1PZVkYd8xdP8vSXWZpomIEhovL02sEbIIhLQIGVuAXmk/s1600/Talent+Show_Officers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHlK6CuGthFdKFOiLGLR5xp8YdklVN6Yn2pV9SbVhJlkK_BqJQkx97gLag2SejRbr21Ls2TjSb4vp1g8J0LkDn5bqIWuVydWl1PZVkYd8xdP8vSXWZpomIEhovL02sEbIIhLQIGVuAXmk/s320/Talent+Show_Officers.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Talent Show Crew - Student Officers</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY7S_nur3nktO8ZTt7AmPnCPKsBQOAupWrNn-H1SXsco0dWpgsoKZk-uj3ig-P_a2gi55spV_q3Cf4GodgYWBIOPPSbSMGrHN_wWJi_vPVWwMH2S12AMiIpA3M467Hl66SlBeSIxxwv64/s1600/Butterfly+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY7S_nur3nktO8ZTt7AmPnCPKsBQOAupWrNn-H1SXsco0dWpgsoKZk-uj3ig-P_a2gi55spV_q3Cf4GodgYWBIOPPSbSMGrHN_wWJi_vPVWwMH2S12AMiIpA3M467Hl66SlBeSIxxwv64/s320/Butterfly+3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Metropolitan Opera House - New York, New York</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1:00 p.m. matinee "Madame Butterfly"</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitcn3wVRlfBX4ezDmCH8AQjf-jRnlaAorhz4joy2dLU_OrPv1drh0AMSvU6gv81PVosdwyM63w4evymrXJidPSehGWE-2Lwcwiy4tgmHEkqJV5dQ8XDzziuE7sKIG8k1TztOMpS-T-D5c/s1600/Butterfly+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitcn3wVRlfBX4ezDmCH8AQjf-jRnlaAorhz4joy2dLU_OrPv1drh0AMSvU6gv81PVosdwyM63w4evymrXJidPSehGWE-2Lwcwiy4tgmHEkqJV5dQ8XDzziuE7sKIG8k1TztOMpS-T-D5c/s320/Butterfly+2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Live" Stream in HD at Douglas Anderson School of the Arts</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1:00 p.m. matinee - Jacksonville, Florida</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRE7ghmPEH6fmIOfNFpg5b_Ee0q2zB5FWSMu0vpAR5cMvIgUDYVMmudJh6pbuOMNq2mketsqD8Zr7n1noXkkkTJpEoj-EgHUg10B8t3yYedYG6P_PIwrLLL16toKvmoSVfjt0D8l4h440/s1600/Butterfly+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRE7ghmPEH6fmIOfNFpg5b_Ee0q2zB5FWSMu0vpAR5cMvIgUDYVMmudJh6pbuOMNq2mketsqD8Zr7n1noXkkkTJpEoj-EgHUg10B8t3yYedYG6P_PIwrLLL16toKvmoSVfjt0D8l4h440/s320/Butterfly+5.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Intermission 1 - Pizza!!</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
On Tuesday, April 5th, I will take 11 students to compete in the Florida
Vocal Association's North State Solo and Ensemble Music Performance
Assessment...and thus will end my "Week That Was."<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Until next time... </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Dee Dee Tamburrinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01294709572081378357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531768861731786994.post-24202706633443876622016-03-18T11:23:00.000-04:002016-03-18T11:23:01.584-04:00National Association for Alternative Education<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL7JDsibRVR6KqijOkbSokR9DzMNyj_TvNEAwD6ELC0gspdRos5IA1_rNaoYl__z48VCB5WwGfhqHvTdiRDId1oQDwycE2zNJ64d3QlHK5SL6jI5Rn9mN8WBVXpVeo5lqAMWj_zoaUDnI/s1600/DSC02257.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL7JDsibRVR6KqijOkbSokR9DzMNyj_TvNEAwD6ELC0gspdRos5IA1_rNaoYl__z48VCB5WwGfhqHvTdiRDId1oQDwycE2zNJ64d3QlHK5SL6jI5Rn9mN8WBVXpVeo5lqAMWj_zoaUDnI/s320/DSC02257.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Spring Break began today and I spent the early morning hours with one of my students who had agreed to sing the National Anthem at the general session of the National Association for Alternative Education's annual conference. Teachers from all over the United States converged upon the Sawgrass Marriott this week to share ideas and gain a better understanding of how we can help our students finish their high school years and receive their diploma. If we, as educators, can help them understand that "the tassle is worth the hassle" and if they complete the task, their lives would be forever changed. No one can ever take away your education. That is one thing in this life you can hold onto forever.<br />
<br />
The path to this invitation was rather circuitous. It was brought to the attention of my current principal by the school's former principal. The invitation then traveled through me (chorus teacher) to my student, Sammie. Her family postponed their trip out of town so she could sing today and I am so grateful for their support.<br />
<br />
Sammie played the lead role of "Dorothy" in our spring musical ("The Wizard of Oz") several weeks ago and did a beautiful job. I knew she would represent our school well today, and she did.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRurwwQnhHsucRUK-9AKD7ehARq_4exYeASmzxYxoCr58Pb9lJeYYPont7b7HcT-Pck1T-i_x5jDte5lqehc7df7pzf7rAxRQcY1GmbVIGjFvnkp5aaxzQXute-0Wz-teXpIGAy68Hw4o/s1600/Wizard+of+Oz_Sammie.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRurwwQnhHsucRUK-9AKD7ehARq_4exYeASmzxYxoCr58Pb9lJeYYPont7b7HcT-Pck1T-i_x5jDte5lqehc7df7pzf7rAxRQcY1GmbVIGjFvnkp5aaxzQXute-0Wz-teXpIGAy68Hw4o/s320/Wizard+of+Oz_Sammie.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgal0cYTjt76e8S3ulOb_cgOX5pf5a9-iCr9YL47ET_nZtPUOGFmDf7WsKCFd5eZplmo2RuEDM3MTRWEMjw_D_X29cMBjtRxUzO6Bqau31mlzOxQYVIz8RVQyUbgzSumS9-4VZXjsqI8FI/s1600/DSC02261.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgal0cYTjt76e8S3ulOb_cgOX5pf5a9-iCr9YL47ET_nZtPUOGFmDf7WsKCFd5eZplmo2RuEDM3MTRWEMjw_D_X29cMBjtRxUzO6Bqau31mlzOxQYVIz8RVQyUbgzSumS9-4VZXjsqI8FI/s320/DSC02261.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I told Sammie that this was the "first of many opportunities" for her to represent Duncan U. Fletcher Senior High School in this way. She is a freshman and I am thrilled to have her for another 3 years!<br />
<br />
Thank you to Mr. Dane Gilbert, Mr. Don Nelson, Ms. Jackie Whitt and the NAEA Board for this opportunity. Now that this performance engagement has been fulfilled, here's wishing all of my students a safe and restful Spring Break!!<br />
<br />
Until next time...Dee Dee Tamburrinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01294709572081378357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531768861731786994.post-72122283569640839802016-02-19T07:57:00.001-05:002016-02-19T07:57:26.262-05:00Birthday Blessings<br />
Yesterday was my birthday. I had an awesome day!! <br />
<br />
Lots of FB posts, text messages, e-mails, telephone calls, cards, flowers and gifts. AND the Dean's secretary (who also happens to be my cousin) sang to me over the intercom. It just doesn't get any better than that.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Even the band honored me by writing my name on their monthly calendar!!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-clH6HTvT08GhIq-bFe2Ly9ctrapY5fKzHdYj_gjzoNsW27HWBAwAfWD88xLjltlJEtGJohQoNT1g5YoYULbsYBxj8cxnsZkGh3VUl_HRszAZ6qnO96yILNMSqmAJaBjytZ1j8YO5Q3Y/s1600/DSC02212.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-clH6HTvT08GhIq-bFe2Ly9ctrapY5fKzHdYj_gjzoNsW27HWBAwAfWD88xLjltlJEtGJohQoNT1g5YoYULbsYBxj8cxnsZkGh3VUl_HRszAZ6qnO96yILNMSqmAJaBjytZ1j8YO5Q3Y/s320/DSC02212.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVYld6Rg_m_F4VZhO6K8rLDAIpLLMQDrlsZTdpbD2skNPqFwPBp9fyNjZK0biXXrDoAGFKGw6Md1qJlVgT_9F3hPaHSgACrpF3DLwgHVP_wxanCiYRELb76rdM3MOvcL9BYxEaN5w_LqU/s1600/DSC02209.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVYld6Rg_m_F4VZhO6K8rLDAIpLLMQDrlsZTdpbD2skNPqFwPBp9fyNjZK0biXXrDoAGFKGw6Md1qJlVgT_9F3hPaHSgACrpF3DLwgHVP_wxanCiYRELb76rdM3MOvcL9BYxEaN5w_LqU/s320/DSC02209.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I love bulb flowers of any variety. My sister sent me a brimming bouquet of irises and tulips!!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I am blessed beyond measure and I'm "feeling the love." Thank you everyone!! </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Until next time....</div>
Dee Dee Tamburrinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01294709572081378357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531768861731786994.post-34039146401200235122016-02-12T16:47:00.000-05:002016-02-12T16:47:30.566-05:00VOICE Trio UKWe are very fortunate to have an organization in our area known to all as the Beaches Fine Arts Series. This organization brings in top-tier performers from around the world to share their musical gifts in our community. EVERY concert is free. Many of the artists do masterclasses and workshops with local elementary school children and concert choirs at the high school level. Last year, we were invited to a masterclass with Chanticleer and it was an awesome experience. <br />
<br />
This year, my Ladies Chamber Chorus was invited to participate in a masterclass with a trio from the United Kingdom. This group calls themselves "VOICE" and boy, do they each have one!!<br />
<br />
The trio worked with my treble choir for over an hour today. They sing all of their music <i>a cappella</i>, which means that there are no instruments involved in the process. They establish the key with tuning forks and have incredibly good pitch and tone production. Their sound is bell-like with very little vibrato. My students had never heard anything like that before and the trio's sound was enhanced by the "live" acoustics at St. Paul's By-the-Sea Episcopal Church which is made of coquina (sea shells and mortar). <br />
<br />
By the end of the hour, my girls had learned several canons, sung in 3-parts, worked on "floating the sound," practiced proper breathing techniques and enjoyed a musical adventure from three lovely ladies from another country. I don't think the girls realized the gift that was given to them today. We will de-brief on Wednesday when we return to school. I am anxious to hear what they have to say about the experience. Big "THANK YOU!!" to Kathy Wallis and the Beaches Fine Arts Series.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiuUCrmEdQWbQIxh2BFSgzvQrhPD8oT4jMCThmmtcDfwF5n7nijXD_ryXcRsa_59o7IJcR8yCZy095b4apDHsV0ivT4McJVNj4BZdIwrYq7389NeFGYn1Nno_y5j9lGr9_zyjYbJl9q-I/s1600/LC_Voice_group+with+trio.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiuUCrmEdQWbQIxh2BFSgzvQrhPD8oT4jMCThmmtcDfwF5n7nijXD_ryXcRsa_59o7IJcR8yCZy095b4apDHsV0ivT4McJVNj4BZdIwrYq7389NeFGYn1Nno_y5j9lGr9_zyjYbJl9q-I/s320/LC_Voice_group+with+trio.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ladies Chamber Chorus with VOICE</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvCbiAwfh5ZVDnJitu0wcDMJTjitlEmzyGun09fAa25PEMLsWSJlj6FSxX0nEgFpxWJ9FCNjLremZJNuEfQVTnGbFDXYMyATqcAZ3ewB0ifCK58HY9TLWTESpOePqpnQPwOmu2K08tlHo/s1600/LC_Voice_me+and+VOICE.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvCbiAwfh5ZVDnJitu0wcDMJTjitlEmzyGun09fAa25PEMLsWSJlj6FSxX0nEgFpxWJ9FCNjLremZJNuEfQVTnGbFDXYMyATqcAZ3ewB0ifCK58HY9TLWTESpOePqpnQPwOmu2K08tlHo/s320/LC_Voice_me+and+VOICE.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Mrs. Tamburrino with VOICE</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGxPeoop-Iy4LPiGfPNiTksKugI0DKk7v43BTejGaQciregQkjN8VYBkqB3L8hpNp31KSXO2tJNzpe0QfzFnbGjHI5Ry7o3T8CD0npKAdwYPRUXEsXE4PbofIdqg7iuqQldiU6fadGKe8/s1600/LC_Voice_VOICE+trio.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGxPeoop-Iy4LPiGfPNiTksKugI0DKk7v43BTejGaQciregQkjN8VYBkqB3L8hpNp31KSXO2tJNzpe0QfzFnbGjHI5Ry7o3T8CD0npKAdwYPRUXEsXE4PbofIdqg7iuqQldiU6fadGKe8/s320/LC_Voice_VOICE+trio.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
VOICE Trio (United Kingdom)</div>
Until next time...<br />
<br />Dee Dee Tamburrinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01294709572081378357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531768861731786994.post-88939192287645635432016-02-12T16:22:00.000-05:002016-02-12T16:22:00.865-05:00Conductors in TrainingIt's that time of year... <br />
<br />
Music Performance Assessment season is upon us! I have 11 entries this year at Solo and Ensemble - 3 music theatre entries, 6 vocal solos and 2 student conductors. This is the first year I've taken student conductors. <br />
<br />
When I asked the Executive Director of the Florida Vocal Association how many I could take, his response was "As many as you can handle." I now know why. <br />
<br />
We had to find willing hearts among us who would put in the extra effort in an ensemble, so that my students had someone TO conduct. We had to give up class time to work on the music so that I could coach the guys through the process. We had to hold additional after school rehearsals with the ensemble and the accompanist to make this happen for these fledgling conductors. I had forgotten what it was like to watch a beginner try to conduct an ensemble. Truth be told, these young men have a newly acquired appreciation for the person on the podium. <br />
<br />
It has been a pleasure watching these young men develop over the past several months and my hope is that they both make a "Superior" rating and we all get to go to STATE!! Fingers crossed... <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsl9k20DRvibtbWzSICuSNoWlpEwycnSMgmQNcA4nPA1YBHhyphenhyphenOddmA-gpvXQjgSQQXEExtG_KoV1r3gze8dF4zS6L2Myl3kelLpTNudd2TVjUKRFn3KvRsYpC7oy5WJBU-MS8lSKA_Zy4/s1600/Student+Conductor_Jacob.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsl9k20DRvibtbWzSICuSNoWlpEwycnSMgmQNcA4nPA1YBHhyphenhyphenOddmA-gpvXQjgSQQXEExtG_KoV1r3gze8dF4zS6L2Myl3kelLpTNudd2TVjUKRFn3KvRsYpC7oy5WJBU-MS8lSKA_Zy4/s320/Student+Conductor_Jacob.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jacob - "Je le vous Diray"</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho97x9ef3Bln72O27LQgOuipsfZzPeeFVKU3kqOfS9-IjxTHzkhjiJ5zH8CXQLSb448toJ8S9k0CE2XpNQgldHhThhjyowIHMIHwvm-7pwgPlBeIj8frED5KAdHoyqpJgegDcgIPJ1tn4/s1600/Student+Conductor_Noah.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho97x9ef3Bln72O27LQgOuipsfZzPeeFVKU3kqOfS9-IjxTHzkhjiJ5zH8CXQLSb448toJ8S9k0CE2XpNQgldHhThhjyowIHMIHwvm-7pwgPlBeIj8frED5KAdHoyqpJgegDcgIPJ1tn4/s320/Student+Conductor_Noah.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Noah - "Shenandoah"</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Until next time...</div>
Dee Dee Tamburrinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01294709572081378357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531768861731786994.post-65676242739720616302016-02-05T18:34:00.001-05:002016-02-12T16:24:32.983-05:00Brandon J. Lesando<br />
I have been blessed through the years to work with incredible people. Some of these folks are artists, musicians, media specialists, drama teachers and dance teachers. All of us are known as resource teachers. It is our job to enlighten young minds in all things artistic. I have worked with some of the most creative, innovative teachers who are masterful at their craft. It is a gift I do not take for granted. One of my dear friends told me that she "loved zinging with me!" That is artistic-speak for creating beauty all around us - whether it is heard, seen or experienced - someone has to create it. I have learned so much from my colleagues and my newest colleague, Brandon J. Lesando, is a musical force with which to be reckoned.<br />
<br />
This young man (he is 25 years my junior) is one of the most talented, insightful first-year teachers I have ever met. He has more energy than anyone in our department. He is the new band director at my high school. I live next door in the chorus room and I was assigned to mentor Mr. Lesando through his first year as a professional educator.<br />
<br />
It is my job to make sure he understands how to function within our Performing Arts Department. It is my job to make sure he meets deadlines placed upon him by the school and by the district. It is my job to make sure that he is well-supported through his first year of teaching. Statistics show that most teachers entering the workforce these days leave within their first three years. They can't handle the demands placed upon beginning teachers. They are easily overwhelmed.<br />
<br />
Teaching is not for the faint-of-heart. It requires a great deal of patience as you learn to navigate the system. It also requires a passion that runs deep, so that when you are at your wits-end, you can remind yourself of the reason you chose this profession in the first place.<br />
<br />
I have mentored many "teacherlings" over the past 12 years. Some were pre-interns who were just there to observe my teaching. Others were interns in their final year of teacher training at college. I have also worked with elementary education majors who were learning how to incorporate visual art and music into their curriculum. I LOVE working with "teacherlings." I love to watch them grow and learn as they navigate through their first year in the classroom. I love to watch the students grow to love them over time. I love to watch them teach, teach and re-teach so that everyone is successful. It is like watching a flower unfolding...it doesn't happen overnight.<br />
<br />
Because Mr. Lesando is a rookie in the classroom, I am required to do two observations on him this year. We completed the first one in early November and his final observation yesterday. He is masterful at classroom management - the best I've ever seen. He has good teacher instincts. He scaffolds well. He teaches "in the moment." If something does not go according to plan, he makes adjustments and repeats the process. He plans, prepares and executes with great precision. Some of that is his naval training; some of it is just how he's wired.<br />
<br />
It has been such a pleasure working with Mr. Lesando this year. My former band director told me before he left that I would love this guy. I do!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMRMweY68SpYjEiDLT8E4ucrIEyX_EbHPVq4xqOSCQp5wlpGjEOqD3E08sh5-GzvshMNBry9WmHfXPSDMnNICPHc4X7koSOpbKK8DSaPr2AfbXPNjas1yqo-gWsMLznFZxl_hAdlhDoQ4/s1600/DSC02175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMRMweY68SpYjEiDLT8E4ucrIEyX_EbHPVq4xqOSCQp5wlpGjEOqD3E08sh5-GzvshMNBry9WmHfXPSDMnNICPHc4X7koSOpbKK8DSaPr2AfbXPNjas1yqo-gWsMLznFZxl_hAdlhDoQ4/s320/DSC02175.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-BuhgFLxmpa9LRfy3n7OjgnqjMmAfqktxhoqAqhc6Qf6Y1cjeSH46AHnR6j3hMdVmc6KWF3l16L4WmyRozjDJ8ySPv-R2b8c8hwvbHHZdWapaYMN45ewwc61ovfETANQGAZEM4lAVY9I/s1600/DSC02177.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-BuhgFLxmpa9LRfy3n7OjgnqjMmAfqktxhoqAqhc6Qf6Y1cjeSH46AHnR6j3hMdVmc6KWF3l16L4WmyRozjDJ8ySPv-R2b8c8hwvbHHZdWapaYMN45ewwc61ovfETANQGAZEM4lAVY9I/s320/DSC02177.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Until next time...Dee Dee Tamburrinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01294709572081378357noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1531768861731786994.post-19247372403088884332016-01-23T07:30:00.000-05:002016-02-14T07:22:54.935-05:00Gray or Grey?Gray or Grey?<br />
<br />
I guess it depends on whether your cultural roots are British. I have asked several artists this question and they cannot answer. They say it is spelled both ways. When I prepare to spell that word, my mind immediately rushes to a lanky dog on the side of a coach bus. I traveled to and from college on one of those buses, so I tend to go with "grey."<br />
<br />
As I prepared to lead my choristers in their afternoon rehearsal, I scanned the classroom and realized that over half of my students were dressed in grey. I found that quite fascinating and took their picture. I don't believe it really matters how you spell it, as long as you are able to recognize it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYf9iP58Ri2owry2J8lQtXPEyfpNBoU186lwSwyVhhmG2A8pxBcv_jsY5qgEMSPF0tge0Xg4yIFuX1larnwhsUUgZTjVS9XkMWGesyfBpMjd-cOux6YUbRxfFtemcjctt8B6CStM-_c4M/s1600/Gray+or+Grey.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYf9iP58Ri2owry2J8lQtXPEyfpNBoU186lwSwyVhhmG2A8pxBcv_jsY5qgEMSPF0tge0Xg4yIFuX1larnwhsUUgZTjVS9XkMWGesyfBpMjd-cOux6YUbRxfFtemcjctt8B6CStM-_c4M/s400/Gray+or+Grey.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
The dude on the left photo-bombed my shot. The gal in the back who is wearing black has worn grey for days on end. The one day she didn't, I decided to take a picture. I told her she could be the centerpiece. Grey is her new favorite color. (or is it colour?)<br />
<br />
Until next time...Dee Dee Tamburrinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01294709572081378357noreply@blogger.com0