Do research sees potential key to learn a new language

Ability to learn foreign speech revealed in brain activityA new study by researchers at the University of Houston (UH) can lead to changes dramatic in the language is taught and learned — especially a second language. These findings are important because statistics show that 60 percent of the children in the Houston independent school district are not native English speakers, a category in the emergence of the United States.Arturo Hernández, Director of the master of development psychology in the uhm, uses neuroimaging methods, as well as techniques of behavior, to investigate the acquisition of language in bilingual brain, mapping of how the bilingual brain processes of language acquisition and observe how it changes over time."There is much interest in the brain and bilingualism, but few people interested to join those two," said Hernandez. "People think of the mind as separate from the brain. "They now understand that what happens in the mind is the product of what the brain does."Hernandez, who also serves as director of the laboratory of the neural Bases of bilingualism in the uhm and is the author of a new book, "The bilingual brain", says recent research examines whether bilingual have greater plasticity and adaptability because two sets of sounds they have learned and can learn vocabulary better than monolinguals. Asked if he could learn a third sound system best.To find out, post-doctoral researcher UH Pilar Archila-luck associated with Hernandez and Ferenc Bunta, Assistant Professor of communication sciences & disorders which specializes in bilingual phonological acquisition. The research team selected Hungarian sounds participants never had heard before, and that it resembled a Spanish nor sounded like English, to establish fair conditions for monolingual and bilingual.The researchers found that half of the bilingual and monolingual could learn the sounds and half of the bilingual and monolingual could not.  When the researchers looked at groups "good" (those who could learn the first sound heard him), discovered that they used the areas of the brain to process sounds. And those who were "bad receivers" did not. This suggests that "groups well" are better to perceive speech, speech even never heard before."In our study, we have found people who seem to be intuitive about the sounds, regardless of how many languages are spoken," said Hernandez. "That could serve as a predictor of whether someone could learn another language easier or not. It was a revelation for me because I feel like we are now starting to find different factors that predict the ability to learn different things. Now, the question is how put us this together."Hernandez said that the long-term goal is an educational outcome that help change the way to teach language to people, particularly a second language."I hope that the results of this research would change drastically the time which introduces a second language and the method we use, as a greater emphasis on learning the sounds of a language instead of learning vocabulary and memorizing it for a test."Tags:Houston, University of Houston independent school districtCategory: articles, education, Houston News

The Green House Gallery & Art Center

zaThe Green House Gallery & Art Center at 716 W Alabama St, Houston, TX 77006 seeks artists to participate in our Holiday Sale beginning on Dec. 4 and running through Dec. 18 with an artist’s reception on Dec. 7. Artists rent wall space (5-6 linear feet for $50) and handle their own sales without commission. This is a perfect opportunity to sell holiday items. We are looking for artists in the Houston area with original artwork of professional quality for sale.The Green House Gallery & Art Center is open Wed. – Sat. 10AM – 3PM. We also offer art classes and workshops. Nov. 30 – Dec. 1 “From within” with M. Allison. This is a two-day acrylic workshop beginning at 3:30PM each day. Only $55 materials included.Beginning Dec. 4 – Every Wed. at 3:30PM, Art Fundamentals. Learn more about visual art in general with hands on projects in various genres. $25, some materials included.Beginning Dec. 5 – Every Thurs. at 6:30PM for 13 weeks, The Artist’s Way. Explore your inner artist with this in-depth program. Join the “Sacred Circle”. Cure your artists block. $100 + materials for the entire 13 week meet-up.Beginning Dec. 6 – Every Fri. at 3:30PM. Painting With Suzanne. Beginners’ Acrylic classes. If you can hold a paintbrush, you can learn to paint.  $25 for a two hour class. Students must bring materials.Dec. 21 – Ink & gouache with Shida Rad. 2-5PM. Shida will teach her unique technique of finger and palm painting. Some materials are included. Bring your favorite colors. Tags: art classes, Green House Gallery & Art Center, workshops Category: Articles, Arts & Entertainment, Houston News, Katy News

New book of biblical scholarship uses to examine the destination

'Help for problem destinations' uses relatable experiences to teach new understandings of ScriptureGRAND PRAIRIE, Texas - in his new book "trouble destinations" (published by AuthorHouse) author and Minister Taiwo Olusegun Ayeni gives readers a new understanding of destination with regard to the Christian faith."My book reveals the divine empowerment that Dios endowed to mankind, and how he expects us to Excel use them, where we lost and how rescue us the follow-up God's plan", explains Ayeni. "Our being empowered to succeed from the beginning so it was not an accident, Dios did intentionally in Gen 1:27;" and therefore he gave us five commands of faith which ensure success when applied correctly. These are i) be fruitful and ii) multiply, iii) replenish the Earth and subdue it iv) and v)-proficient. (Genesis 1:28). "A fragment of "Trouble destinations":"God's plan for every man from the beginning is to succeed in life. Therefore, that he deposited in us the seed of success. So this seed to work for us, is our responsibility to identify, discover, engage and nurture it to fruition. "In addition, certainly say without a doubt that pronouncing his blessing upon us in Genesis 1:28 empowered us from the beginning to excel or succeed.""There is hope" Ayeni reminds its readers. "Don't give up, but see: help is on the way.""Trouble destinations"By Taiwo Olusegun AyeniHardcover | 6 x 9 in | 128 pages | ISBN 9781449058562Softcover | 6 x 9 in | 128 pages | ISBN 9781449058555E-Book | 128 pages | ISBN 9781449058579Available at Amazon and Barnes Noble &About the authorAyeni Olusegun Taiwo graduated from the University of Lagos with a degree in social communication, sociology and psychology. From knowing the Lord, he has had the privilege of serving in various capacities. The is the Minister responsible for Rehoboth Bible ministries, Inc. headquartered in Grand Prairie, Texas and a professor in the school of prayer of Gethsemane prayer Ministries International, based in Ibadan, Nigeria. More information is available at www.rehobothbministries.org.Category: articles, arts & Entertainment

Texas State Operations Center Receives Major Upgrade

aAUSTIN – On Wednesday a television news segment broadcast by the ABC affiliate in Austin, KVUE, showcased the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) State Operations Center (SOC) and included a guided tour of the rarely-seen center by Texas Division of Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd.The segment also spotlighted recent renovations that have increased seating for the Emergency Management Council inside the SOC to as many as 112 individuals; constructed additional conference rooms for breakout meetings; and installed programmable smart boards and LCD displays for immediate monitoring of incoming and changing information during a disaster.Regarding the news story and the renovated SOC, DPS Director Steven McCraw said:“Texas faces a full spectrum of threats – manmade and natural – and the state’s vast size, dynamic geography and large population present distinct challenges to public safety and homeland security. The Texas Division of Emergency Management and the State Operations Center, now with these new capabilities, leading-edge technology and expert staff, makes our state even better positioned to prepare for, respond to and recover from all emergencies, and most importantly, to keep our citizens safe.”To view the full video or online article, please visit http://www.kvue.com/news/Disaster-response-center-gets-major-upgrade-232574941.html.For more information about the Texas Division of Emergency Management or Texas State Operations Center, please see http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/dem/index.htm.Tags: State Operations Center, Texas Department of Public Safety, Texas Division of Emergency ManagementCategory: Articles, Nationwide News

Katy Music Teachers Association Wee Folks Recital

a The Katy Music Teachers Association presented the annual Wee Folks Recital on October 19, 2013 at the Living Word Lutheran Church.The following students participated in the 10:00 Am recital.From left to right, row 1:Annie Li, Brian Xiong, Emma Zeng, Anthony Li, Olivia Chong, Anthony Zhu, Lucas Yuan, Timothy Chau, Megan Chou, Nathan Oentoro,Row 2: Tony Chen, Victoria Zhang, Regina Wu, Cristy Chau, Nicole Teerman, Clair Huang, Reika Truong, Christina Gu, Tess Chan, Bella Chan and Kenrich Huyuh.The following students participated in the 11:00 AM Wee Folks Recital:Amelie Kwok, Mia So, Iona Forrester, Abigail Dailey, Sophia tamlin, Alex Shi, Tracy Li, Keira Dawson, Lu Lu Ma, Julia Hu, Riley Hall, Darcie Birbiglia, Raghav Rau, Andrew Marshall, Kathryn Marshall, Jessie Sun, Joshua Lyles, Arnav Rao.Participating teachers were LInda Bryan, Susan Lieberman, Cheryl Marshall, Colleen Stadnick, Nancy Stevenson, Catherine Tetreault, MaryAnn Whitworth and Carmen Yip.Tags: Katy Music Teachers Association, Wee Folks RecitalCategory: Articles, Arts & Entertainment, Houston News, Katy News

Third Annual San Jacinto Texas Independence 5K Fun Run/Walk

aMarch 8 run benefits San Jacinto Museum of HistoryWHAT:          The San Jacinto Museum of History will hold its third annual “San Jacinto Texas Independence Fun Run/Walk” on Saturday, March 8, 2014 on a 5K-certified course on the grounds of the San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Park.  Proceeds from the event will benefit the San Jacinto Museum of History’s educational programs.  The timed run starts at 7:45 a.m.; a children’s 1K run begins at 7:30 a.m.Online registration is available now at www.active.com (type in “San Jacinto” in the keyword “search” option.  Cost of the fun run is $20 pre-registration before December 31; $25 pre-registration before February 28; and $30 through noon, March 7.  Cost for the kids run is $15 pre-registration before December 31; $20 pre-registration before February 28; and $25 through noon, March 7.Packet pick-up occurs Friday, March 7 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday, March 8 from 6 a.m. – 7:15 a.m. at the San Jacinto Museum and Monument.WHEN:          Saturday, March 8, 2014- Gates to park open at 6 a.m.- Children’s 1K begins at 7:30 a.m.  (jogging strollers allowed)- 5K will start at 7:45, immediately after the 1K Children’s Run beginsWHERE:       San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site, 1 Monument Circle La Porte, TX(Directions: The San Jacinto Battleground is located in La Porte, Texas off of Hwy 225. Exit Independence Parkway; travel north and the state park is about four miles ahead.)Organizers will offer awards for one overall winner for both men and women and 1st, 2nd and 3rd place in all age groups in 10-year divisions.  All children will receive a participant award at the finish line.The San Jacinto Museum of History and Monument attractions (489-foot elevator to the top of the Monument; digital presentation Texas Forever!! The Battle of San Jacinto; and Making a Mark, Leaving a Legacy exhibit) will be open for visits from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.  There is free parking onsite. Dogs are allowed on a leash.All proceeds benefit the San Jacinto Museum of History.   Sponsors as of 11-19-13 are:  Office Systems of Texas, Pasadena Rotary Club, Vopak, Congressman Gene Green, San Jacinto Museum of History Association President Larry Spasic, Monument Inn, JSC Federal Credit Union, Sapp Allstate Service, Shell Federal Credit Union, DiPuma and First Choice Emergency Room.For additional information or sponsorship packages, contact Carolyn Campbell at 281.479.2421 or ccampbell@sanjacinto-museum.org.Tags: 5K Fun Run/Walk, an Jacinto Battleground State Historic Park, San Jacinto Museum of HistoryCategory: Articles, Arts & Entertainment, Houston News, Katy News

Urban Green’s Ski the Green

a Urban Green Ski the Green Chairs Oliver Doolin, Paula Whitten-Doolin, Eve French, Courtney Carleson Siegmund and Brandon Siegmund. Photo: Lance CarterHermann Park Conservancy’s young professionals group Urban Green raises over $20,000 at ski-themed fundraiserWhat: Urban Green’s Ski the GreenWhen: Thursday, November 21, 7–10 p.m.Where: Historic Clubhouse at Hermann ParkAbout: The cold front didn’t cooperate but the rain held off long enough for party-goers to enjoy Urban Green’s ski lodge-themed event last Thursday night, Ski the Green. Chairs Paula Whitten-Doolin and Oliver Doolin, Eve French, and Courtney Carlson Siegmund and Brandon Siegmund, along with the Urban Green Steering Committee, turned the Historic Clubhouse in Hermann Park into a welcoming ski lodge complete with sipping hot chocolate from The Chocolate Bar, brews from Saint Arnold, animal trophies, wreaths, and lanterns. Guests enjoyed making s‘mores by the fire and dined on fare from Raising Cane’s, Adair Kitchen, Chipotle Mexican Grill, Pinewood Cafe, Paulie’s, and Sprinkles Cupcakes all beautifully arranged by caterer extraordinaire Butter and Company. Signature beverages from Pisco Portón,rum apple cider, and bubbly champagne kept everyone warm and toasty. Guests sporting scarves, vests, fur, and boots tried out the animated GIF Smilebooth that put guests “on the slopes” with a virtual background and the classic ski-themed film Aspen Extreme was projected on the wall. DJ M-Cue kept the tunes going all night long with snow bunnies hitting the outdoor dance floor. The silent auction was quite competitive with hot bidding on a “cool” trip to Telluride that included two round-trip tickets on United Airlines, a 3-night stay at the Peaks Resort and Spa, and a $100 gift card to Sun and Ski Sports donated by HFG Wealth Management. Over 275 people attended. The event raised $20,837.All proceeds benefit Hermann Park Conservancy.Who: Spotted in their winter attire (adjusted for Houston humidity) were Urban Green Steering Committee Chair, Catherine Bradley; past Urban Green chair, Brittany Sakowitz and her husband, Kevin Kushner; Holly A.N. Smith of the McNair Foundation; Pierce Bush; Cassie Detering and John Milam; Errol Allen II; Kristen and Brett McDanald; Evan Hawkins; Marc Eichenbaum; Jennifer Graff; Eliza Wright; Francis Lim and Allison Greist; Rima Paralkar and Lee Chung; Rashida Lee and Duane Stevenson; Sharon Noel and Jason Griffin; Kevin Dewhurst; and Carey Kirkpatrick and David Rassin. Executive director of Hermann Park Conservancy Doreen Stoller and her husband Dan Piette attended as well.About Urban Green: Hermann Park Conservancy’s Urban Green is a membership and events group made up of young professionals, primarily in their 20s and 30s, dedicated to the Conservancy’s mission to improve and maintain Hermann Park. Through a variety of events both social and educational, Urban Green strives to inspire new generations of Park supporters.To learn more about Urban Green and to join, visit www.hermannpark.org/membership.About Hermann Park Conservancy: Founded in 1992, Hermann Park Conservancy is a nonprofit citizens’ organization dedicated to the stewardship and improvement of Hermann Park, one of Houston’s largest and most loved urban parks. Through a public-private partnership with the City of Houston, the Conservancy has secured over $110 million toward a $123 million goal for the Centennial Campaign for Hermann Park, which will celebrate its 100th birthday in 2014. Beyond raising millions of dollars toward capital improvements in the Park, the Conservancy oversees programs focused on visitor services, conservation and stewardship, and tree care. For more information on the Conservancy, visit www.hermannpark.org. Follow the Conservancy at www.facebook.com/HermannPark and www.twitter.com/HermannPark.Pictured above: Urban Green Ski the Green Chairs Oliver Doolin, Paula Whitten-Doolin, Eve French, Courtney Carleson Siegmund and Brandon Siegmund. Photo: Lance CarterTags: Adair Kitchen, Chipotle Mexican Grill, Hermann Park Conservancy, Paulie’s, Pinewood Cafe, Raising Cane’s, Sprinkles Cupcakes, Urban Green, Young ProfessionalsCategory: Articles, Arts & Entertainment, Houston News, Katy News