Love Is Something If You Give It Away

"Treat 'em as if they are good, and they will meet your expectations."  Growing up in the small town of Wildwood meant everyone knew everyone, and everyone knew, or thought s/he knew, everyone's business.  In our teen years, our house was Grand Central - the four of us had friends over often: eating dinner, watching TV, listening to KISS on the 8-Track, and fixing motorcycles.  At times, some of our guests were teens of which others in the town did not think highly.  Some of these teens did do things that they should not have done, but, none the less, my mom, Gladys, said hello to them, welcomed them into her home, and treated them as if they were good.  And you know what?  They were good for her!  She would have them helping her dig and carry in potatoes from the garden, water flowers, carry in groceries, and clean their plates and cutlery from the table.  I would always hear, "Yes, Mrs. Monty, please, Mrs. Monty, thank you, Mrs. Monty, may I help you, Mrs. Monty.  Our friends loved my mom because they knew she loved them.

On August 31, my mom held a motorcycle rally at her hotel.  Heaps of people turned out, and as I chatted with the bikers, I heard story after story of how my mom touched their hearts.  These people could have been anywhere in the world that Saturday, but they chose to be in Wildwood with Mom.

One fellow from Edmonton, Dan, told me a story of how a number of years ago he and his wife were riding back from B.C. in the rain.  He said they both were soaked and frozen by the time they reached Wildwood.  He said Mom took them in, helped spread out their wet gear throughout the bar so it would dry, gave them food, drink, and a room to sleep.  He said he will forever remember her kindness.  He attends every rally she has, and he stops in to visit if he happens to be passing through the area.  He said, "Cal, your mom is amazing; she makes everyone feel so loved."

What would my mom do if she were a teacher?  She would love each of her students and colleagues unconditionally; let's do what Gladys would do.

 Love is something if you give it away.

August 27/28 Beginning Teachers' Workshop

Black Gold Regional Division principals, once again, have hired an amazing group of teachers new to both the profession and Black Gold.  I was extremely impressed with these teachers' knowledge, professionalism, and passion for teaching.

Our two day workshop focused on a number of items: lesson planning, growth plans, technology, student services, teacher conduct, teaching strategies, and a bus tour of our division.  I want to thank our new teachers for attending and eagerly participating in the workshop.  I'd also like to thank our presenters for finding time in their busy schedules to present at the workshop: Pam Verhoeff, Norm Dargis, Ray McCubbing, Darren Maltais, Suzanne Stroud, Dianne Butler, Arthur Burrows, and Zane Chomlak.

Great Things are Happening in BGRS!