2011 ESL Registration and Placement Testing

2011 ESL Registration and Placement Testing at Milpitas Adult School

August 8, 10, 12, 15 or 17

MORNING AND EVENING CLASSSES for Academic and Career Students
Registration 9 am - 12 Begins on time. No late entry!
eTest 1 - 4 pm

Bring a picture ID and a $40 non-refundable test fee. (Exact change
only)
Plan to be here approximately 3 hours for registration and 3 hours for
the eTest. No Children Please!

The next ESL Registration/Placement test will be August 8, 10, 12, 15 and 17. Please click one of the language version listed below for registration and testing times.

• English Version of ESL Registration/Testing for August 2011


• Spanish Version of ESL Registration/Testing for August 2011


• Chinese Version of ESL Registration/Testing for August 2011


• Vietnamese Version of ESL Registration/Testing for August 2011

School starts on August 29th

MORNING ESL CLASSES
ESL - Career & College Students Mon - Fri 8:45 am - 12 noon

EVENING CLASSES
ESL - Career & College Students Tue/Thu 5:45 pm - 9 pm
ESL Citizenship Preparation Tue/Thu 5:45 pm - 9 pm
Next Registration/Test Date: Oct 25, 2011.
Check the website https://adulted.musd.org/ for ESL updates.

O! Say Can You See 2011-08-07

USCIS 100:05. What do we call the first ten amendments to the Constitution?

USCIS: 05. What do we call the first ten amendments to the Constitution?

**the Bill of Rights



LISTEN: USCIS 100:05-06 mp3
READ: USCIS 100:05 document
READ: USCIS 100:06 document
Direct download: m638-05-06.mp3

West Wing Week: 8/5/11 or "Disaster Averted"

VOAVideo: West Wing Week: 8/5/11 or "Disaster Averted"

Welcome to the West Wing Week, your guide to everything that's happening at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. This week, President Obama announced a bi-partisan compromise to reduce the deficit and avoid default, announced a historic fuel efficiency standard that will save American families money, welcomed the crews of the Space Shuttle Endeavour and International Space Station expedition 26, held a cabinet meeting and celebrated his 50th birthday.

O! Say Can You See 2011-08-05

USCIS 100:04. What is an amendment?

"Patchwork Flag" at the 2008 Pacific International Quilt Festival, Santa Clara, CA

USCIS 100:04. What is an amendment

▪ a change (to the Constitution)
▪ an addition (to the Constitution)

MORE PRACTICE

• LISTEN: USCIS 100:03-04 mp3


• READ: USCIS 100:04 document


• Direct download: m638-03-04.mp3

Happy 50th Birthday, President Obama!

"Yes We Can!" Cake decorated by the Larson Family of San Jose, CA
in honor of the Inauguration of President Barack Obama, January 2009.

VOANews: Obama Celebrates 50th Birthday with White House Party

President Obama will host an afternoon party with family and friends at the White House Rose Garden. At a Chicago birthday gala and campaign fundraiser Wednesday, the president defended his economic record while admitting more work needs to be done. (watch video)

O! Say Can You See 2011-08-03

USCIS 100:03. The idea of self-government is in the first three words of the Constitution. What are these words?

"We the People" by Loree Marquardt, Colorado Springs, C0

USCIS 100:03. The idea of self-government is in the first three words of the Constitution. What are these words?

▪ We the People

MORE PRACTICE

LISTEN: USCIS 100:03-04 mp3

READ: USCIS 100:03 document

Direct download: m638-03-04.mp3

Debt Ceiling Plan Clears Both Houses of Congress

VOAVideo: Debt Ceiling Plan Clears Both Houses of Congress

Voting on a deficit reduction plan is over in the U.S. Congress. Legislation raising the debt ceiling and cutting spending passed the U.S. House of Representatives Monday night and the U.S. Senate Tuesday, just in time for the August 2 deadline. On that day, economists had warned the U.S. would no longer be able to service its debt payments. Meantime, global market analysts seem to be several paces ahead, pondering how far the agreement goes in saving a weak U.S. economy. VOA's Laurel Bowman explores.

Rep. Gabrielle Giffords Returns to the House

CSPAN: Rep. Gabrielle Giffords Returns to the House

Seen on C-SPAN: During the final vote on the debt ceiling bill, Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (D-AZ) returns to the House. This is her first time back in the House since surviving an assassination attempt in January of this year.

US Congressional Vote Looms on Debt Ceiling Deal

VOAVideo: US Congressional Vote Looms on Debt Ceiling Deal

Democratic and Republican leaders in Congress have reached agreement on increasing the debt ceiling and cutting spending after months of political fighting. Both the House of Representatives and the Senate plan to vote on the measure Monday, just a day ahead of the deadline for reaching a deal. VOA's Laurel Bowman has more.

Bipartisan U.S. Debt Deal Reportedly Taking Shape

VOAVideo: Bipartisan U.S. Debt Deal Reportedly Taking Shape

The U.S. Senate has blocked a Democratic proposal to raise the federal borrowing limit and avoid a potential default on America's $14.3 trillion national debt. With both Republican and Democratic plans now defeated, focus shifts to last-ditch negotiations between congressional leaders and the White House. VOA's Michal Bowman reports lawmakers are expressing cautious optimism that a bipartisan deal may soon be at hand.

President Obama Delivers a Statement on Deficit Agreement

wh.gov: President Obama Delivers a Statement on Deficit Agreement

President Obama delivers a statement to the press on announcing that the leaders of both parties have reached an agreement that will reduce the deficit and avoid default. July 31, 2011.

PRESIDENT OBAMA: I want to thank the American people. It’s been your voices -- your letters, your emails, your tweets, your phone calls -- that have compelled Washington to act in the final days. And the American people's voice is a very, very powerful thing.

We’re not done yet. I want to urge members of both parties to do the right thing and support this deal with your votes over the next few days. It will allow us to avoid default. It will allow us to pay our bills. It will allow us to start reducing our deficit in a responsible way. And it will allow us to turn to the very important business of doing everything we can to create jobs, boost wages, and grow this economy faster than it's currently growing.

That’s what the American people sent us here to do, and that’s what we should be devoting all of our time to accomplishing in the months ahead.

Thank you very much, everybody.

O! Say Can You See 2011-07-31

USCIS 100:02. What does the Constitution do?

"Uncle Sam Juggling" at the 2009 Pacific International Quilt Festival, Santa Clara, CA

USCIS 100:02. What does the Constitution do?

▪ sets up the government
▪ defines the government
▪ protects basic rights of Americans

MORE PRACTICE:

• LISTEN: USCIS 100:01-02 mp3


• READ: USCIS 100:01 document


• READ: USCIS 100:02 document

US Debt Crisis

VOAVideo: US Debt Talks

VOANews: Obama Encourages Bipartisan Solution to Avoid Debt Default

wh.gov: US Debt Graphic

wh.gov: Presidential Weekly Address: Compromise on Behalf of the American People 07/30/2011

President Obama
: "There are plenty of ways out of this mess. But we are almost out of time. We need to reach a compromise by Tuesday so that our country will have the ability to pay its bills on time, as we always have -- bills that include monthly Social Security checks, veterans’ benefits and the government contracts we’ve signed with thousands of businesses. Keep in mind, if we don’t do that, if we don’t come to an agreement, we could lose our country’s AAA credit rating, not because we didn’t have the capacity to pay our bills -- we do -- but because we didn’t have a AAA political system to match our AAA credit rating.

And make no mistake -– for those who say they oppose tax increases on anyone, a lower credit rating would result potentially in a tax increase on everyone in the form of higher interest rates on their mortgages, their car loans, their credit cards. And that’s inexcusable.

There are a lot of crises in the world that we can’t always predict or avoid -– hurricanes, earthquakes, tornadoes, terrorist attacks. This isn’t one of those crises. The power to solve this is in our hands. And on a day when we’ve been reminded how fragile the economy already is, this is one burden we can lift ourselves. We can end it with a simple vote –- a vote that Democrats and Republicans have been taking for decades, a vote that the leaders in Congress have taken for decades."

West Wing Week 07/29/11 or "Mutual Disposition"

West Wing Week 07/29/11 or "Mutual Disposition"

This week, The President held a town hall, met with the Prime Minister of New Zealand, honored the world series champions, spoke to Hispanic community advocates and addressed the Nation on the importance of compromising on a balanced approach to reduce the deficit. That's July 22nd to July 28th or "Mutual Disposition"

Obama Takes Heat from Pro-Immigration Groups

VOAVideo: Obama Takes Heat from Pro-Immigration Groups

U.S. President Barack Obama came into office with strong voter support among Hispanic Americans, while promising to make immigration reform a top priority. But many lawmakers in Washington oppose easing restrictions on immigration and instead demand a crackdown against illegal immigration. VOA's Laurel Bowman has more.

O! Say Can You See 2011-07-27

USCIS 100:01. What is the supreme law of the land?

"Counted Cross-stitch Preamble to the US Constitution" Geneva, Il.

USCIS 100:01. What is the supreme law of the land?

▪ the Constitution

MORE PRACTICE:

• LISTEN: USCIS 100:01-02 mp3


• READ: USCIS 100:01 document


• READ: USCIS 100:02 document

O! Say Can You See 2011-07-25

USCIS 100:100. Name two national U.S. holidays.

A Red, White, and YUMMY cupcake cake at Safeways, Santa Clara, CA

USCIS 100:100. Name two national U.S. holidays.

▪ New Year’s Day
▪ Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
▪ Presidents’ Day
▪ Memorial Day
▪ Independence Day
▪ Labor Day
▪ Columbus Day
▪ Veterans Day
▪ Thanksgiving
▪ Christmas

Oveta Culp Hobby

USPS 100:36. What are two Cabinet-level positions?

This new USPS stamp in the Distinguished Americans series honors Oveta Culp Hobby (1905-1995), journalist, business leader and public servant.

During World War II, she answered the call to public service by forming and leading the Women's Army Corps (WAC).

In 1953, she became the first secretary of the Deparment of Health, Education and Welfare, the second woman to hold a Cabinet post.

USPS 100:36. What are two Cabinet-level positions?

▪ Secretary of Agriculture
▪ Secretary of Commerce
▪ Secretary of Defense
▪ Secretary of Education
▪ Secretary of Energy
▪ Secretary of Health and Human Services
▪ Secretary of Homeland Security
▪ Secretary of Housing and Urban Development
▪ Secretary of the Interior
▪ Secretary of Labor
▪ Secretary of State
▪ Secretary of Transportation
▪ Secretary of the Treasury
▪ Secretary of Veterans Affairs
▪ Attorney General
▪ Vice President

O! Say Can You See 2011-07-23

A chair under a shady tree at the San Jose Rose, White, and Blue Parade, July 4th, 2011 .



USCIS 100:99. When do we celebrate Independence Day?*

▪ July 4


O! Say Can You See: a photo series featuring the US Flag from US CitizenPod

West Wing Week: 7/21/11 or "Two Minute Warning"

West Wing Week: 7/21/11 or "Two Minute Warning"

This week, walk side by side with the President as he continues his focus on finding a balanced deal in deficit negotiations, meets with Warren Buffett, calls the international space station, makes an important personnel announcement and hosts an education roundtable discussion with business leaders.

O! Say Can You See 2011-07-21

USCIS 100:98. What is the name of the national anthem?

O! Say Can You See: a photo series featuring the US Flag from US CitizenPod

I was recently in Geneva, IL where I a huge picture of the US Flag
on the side of the Geneva Rotary Club's car trailer.

USCIS 100:98. What is the name of the national anthem?
▪ The Star-Spangled Banner

Anniversary of the First US Moon Landing and Shuttle Program

VOANews: In Photos: Highlights of the U.S. Space Program

The United States's Apollo 11 was the first manned mission to land on the Moon on 20 July 1969. VOA celerates the US Space Program with a new photo gallery of the US Space Program.


VOANews: In Photos: Highlights of the U.S. Space Shuttle Program

VOA celebrates the US Shuttle Program with a new photo galery of the US Shuttle Program.

Angela Tirado sings a Star-Spangled Welcome to Citizenship

Star-spangled Welcome to Citizenship: Volunteer Leads Anthem At Campbell Ceremonies
By L.A. Chung, Mercury News 11/10/2007 [Video]
Angela Tirado has been singing the National Anthem for naturalization ceremonies since March 2006 at the Heritage Theatre in Campbell, Calif.

A beautiful, inspiring story! This is the woman who leads my students in the Star Spangled Banner at their Oath Ceremony.

US Flag Over Farm Stamp

USCIS 100:96. Why does the flag have 13 stripes?



Several of the Founding Fathers--George Washington, John Adams, and Thomas Jefferson--were farmers. According to the most recent US Agriculture Census, there are 2.2 million farms in the United States.

The Postal Service issued the First-class Flag Over Farm definitive stamp in Washington, DC, on December 15, 2000. The stamp, designed by Richard Sheaff of Scottsdale, Arizona, and illustrated by Hiro Kimura of Brooklyn

USCIS 100:96. Why does the flag have 13 stripes?

▪ because there were 13 original colonies
▪ because the stripes represent the original colonies

Ruby Bridges visits with the President and her portrait

USCIS 100:84. What movement tried to end racial discrimination?



wh.gov: Ruby Bridges visits with the President and her portrait

Ruby Bridges visited the White House to see how a painting commemorating her personal and historic milestone looks hanging on the wall outside of the Oval Office. American Artist Norman Rockwell was criticized by some when this painting first appeared on the cover of Look magazine on January 14,1964; now the iconic portrait will be on display throughout the summer of 2011 in one of the most exalted locations in the country.

USCIS 100:84. What movement tried to end racial discrimination?

▪ civil rights (movement)

Debt Limit Talks Show Deeper Debate on Government's Duties

VOANews: Debt Limit Talks Show Deeper Debate on Government's Duties

"We may be looking at one of those almost generational changes in…government," says an economist ECONOMICS REPORT (download mp3)

West Wing Week: 7/14/11 or "Our Heroes Are All Around Us"

West Wing Week: 7/14/11 or "Our Heroes Are All Around Us"

This week, The President conducted meetings with bipartisan congressional leaders, awarded the medal of honor, and repeatedly spoke to the country about the ongoing debt discussions at the White House.

Failure to Raise Debt Ceiling 'Could Lead to Another Recession'

Failure to Raise Debt Ceiling 'Could Lead to Another Recession'

Negotiations still appear deadlocked in the United States over raising the U.S. debt ceiling. Although both sides see the debate as an opportunity to bring down the nation's rapidly expanding deficit, leaders of the Republican-controlled House of Representatives say it will oppose any efforts by President Barack Obama to raise taxes. With the deadline fast approaching, economists say both sides are making a high stakes gamble. Mil Arcega reports.

Changing the Conversation on Immigration Reform

Changing the Conversation on Immigration Reform

Comprehensive immigration reform is in our national interest and making it possible starts with changing the conversation by sharing stories. Secretary Hilda L. Solis shares her experience from a roundtable in LA. See more at President Obama and the Hispanic Community. Also checkout the videos from the White House Hispanic Policy Conference at youtube.com/user/whitehouse

HBO: Citizen U.S.A.: A 50 State Road Trip: Home

HBO: Citizen U.S.A.: A 50 State Road Trip

The official website for the HBO Documentary Film Citizen U.S.A.: A 50 State Road Trip, featuring videos, images, interviews, resources and schedule information.

CHECK YOUR LOCAL LISTINGS FOR SHOWTIMES. Also availale on HBO On Demand

Impressions on the White House Twitter Townhall

VOAVideo: Impressions on the White House Twitter Townhall

Jack Dorsey, co-founder of Twitter, talks about the White House Twitter Town hall just after the event had concluded

Twitter Town Meeting: Immigrant Entrepreneurs

President Obama responds to a tweet about Immigrant Entrepreneurs at the Twitter Town Meeting, July 7, 2011

MR. DORSEY: So back to jobs. We have a question from New York City about immigrant entrepreneurs: "Immigrant entrepreneurs can build companies and create jobs for U.S. workers. Will you support a startup visa program?"

THE PRESIDENT: What I want to do is make sure that talented people who come to this country to study, to get degrees, and are willing and interested in starting up businesses can do so, as opposed to going back home and starting those businesses over there to compete against the United States and take away U.S. jobs.

So we’re working with the business community as well as the entrepreneurial community to figure out are there ways that we can streamline the visa system so if you are studying here, you’ve got a PhD in computer science or you’ve got a PhD in engineering, and you say I’m ready to invest in the United States, create jobs in the United States, then we are able to say to you, we want you to stay here.

And I think that it is possible for us to deal with this problem. But it’s important for us to look at it more broadly. We’ve got an immigration system that’s broken right now, where too many folks are breaking the law but also our laws make it too hard for talented people to contribute and be part of our society. And we’ve always been a nation of laws and a nation of immigrants. And so we need comprehensive immigration reform, part of which would allow entrepreneurs and high-skilled individuals to stay here -- because we want to be attracting that talent here. We don’t want that -- we don’t want to pay for training them here and then having them benefit other countries. (transcript from LATimes.com)

West Wing Week 7/7/11 or "Ready to Tweet"

VOAVideo: West Wing Week 7/7/11 or "Ready to Tweet"

Welcome to the West Wing Week, your guide to everything that's happening at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. This week, President Obama celebrated Independence day with military families on the South Lawn, hosted a Twitter Town Hall on the economy and jobs and continued to work with leaders from both houses of Congress to find a balanced approach to reducing our long-term deficit. That's July 1st to July 7th or "Ready to Tweet!"

Obama Holds First Ever Twitter Town Hall

VOAVideo: Obama Holds First Ever Twitter Town Hall

Social media outlets are fueling revolutions around the world, and changing the way politics is conducted in the United States. But analysts say news consumers should look to many sources for their media intake. U.S. President Barack Obama used social media outlet Twitter Wednesday to conduct a town hall meeting from the White House. VOA's Laurel Bowman has that story.

Obama Twitter Town Hall-- In Progress!

TownHall@townhall
Official account for Twitter hosted town halls. Our first on July 6th, 2PM ET. http://askobama.twitter.com

ensina Sina by townhall
Immigrant entrepreneurs can build companies and create jobs for US workers. Will you support a startup visa program? #askobama

whitehouse The White House
Obama: Working w/ biz, others, on ways to streamline visas so we don't educate people then make them leave to compete against us...
ImmPolitic NalImmigration Forum
President Obama responding #immigration question and need for reform

ImmPolitic NalImmigration Forum
Obama: We need to streamline the visa system to attract best of minds #immigration

whitehouse The White House
Obama: ...For that reason and others, we need immigration reform that is comprehensive

cliniclegal CLINIC
RT @pwolgin: Obama: "we've got an #immigration system that's broken right now we've always been a nation of laws & immigrants."

TweetWatch Tweet Watch by americasvoice
Obama: "We need comprehensive #immigration reform that includes keeping talented people in the country. #AskObama

ImmPolitic NalImmigration Forum
RT @UnivisionNews: Obama: We need people who are studying here to stay here and invest in the US and create jobs in the US #immigration

LuisGutierrez Luis V. Gutierrez
From cabdriver to Member of Congress, I've had the opportunity to live the American dream. It's time to revive that dream for all of #US.

AlexNowrasteh Alexander Nowrasteh by americasvoice
Shouldn't increasing legal #immigration take precedence over enforcing #immigration laws that make U.S. poorer? #askobama

jakebrewer Jake Brewer by americasvoice
Too many people are breaking the law, but the laws also make it too hard to become a citizen - Prez Obama #immigration #askObama

Successful Immigrant Gives Back to Home Country

VOAVideo: Successful Immigrant Gives Back to Home Country

America is often called the "land of opportunity", a country where anyone can find wealth if they're willing to work for it. Here is the story of one immigrant who made his fortune, but ultimately found fulfillment by giving back to others. VOA's Ernest Leong reports.

4th of July at the White House 2011

wh.gov: 4th of July at the White House 2011

The White House and the USO celebrate the 4th of July with service members and their families at the White House Independence Day celebration on the South Lawn.

The President Delivers Remarks at Independence Day Celebration

wh.gov: The President Delivers Remarks at Independence Day Celebration

President Obama speaks to military families celebrating Independence Day on the South Lawn of the White House. July 4, 2011.

Jose Rose, White, and Blue Parade 2011

San Jose Rose, White, and Blue Parade 2011

The San Jose Rose, White, and Blue Parade 2011 along The Alameda, in the Rose Garden District. Cameo appearances by Judy Connell, Marshal Connell, Kansen Chu, and SJ Mayor Chuck Reed.

Americans Celebrate Independence With Parties, Fireworks

VOAVideo: Americans Celebrate Independence With Parties, Fireworks

Americans Celebrate Independence With Parties, Fireworks From: VOAvideo | Jul 4, 2011 | 56 views Loading...Americans are celebrating Independence Day Monday - the anniversary of the day the country's founding fathers declared independence from Britain in 1776.

On the day known informally as the Fourth of July, U.S. citizens celebrate with parades, picnics, ball games, and concerts. Fourth of July decorations feature the colors of the American flag - red, white, and blue

Americans Reflect on Meaning of Independence Day

USCIS 100:99. When do we celebrate Independence Day?*

VOAVideo: Americans Reflect on Meaning of Independence Day

America’s independence holiday, July 4th, is a chance for Americans to take the day off, have a picnic, go to the beach, take advantage of sales at the shopping mall. But for many Americans, it is also a time to reflect on the historic meaning of July 4th. (download mp3)

USCIS 100:8. What did the Declaration of Independence do?▪ announced our

• independence (from Great Britain)


• declared our independence (from Great Britain)


• said that the United States is free (from Great Britain)

USCIS 100:9. What are two rights in the Declaration of Independence?

• life


• liberty


• pursuit of happiness

USCIS 100:62. Who wrote the Declaration of Independence?

• (Thomas) Jefferson

USCIS 100:63. When was the Declaration of Independence adopted?

• July 4, 1776

USCIS 100:99. When do we celebrate Independence Day?*

• July 4

USCIS 100:100. Name two national U.S. holidays.

• New Year’s Day


• Martin Luther King, Jr. Day


• Presidents’ Day


• Memorial Day/li>
  
• Independence Day


• Labor Day


• Columbus


• Veterans Day


• Thanksgiving


• Christmas

New Citizens Look Forward to July 4th Celebration

VOAVideo: New Citizens Look Forward to July 4th Celebration

The Fourth of July is America's birthday, celebrated with parades, fireworks and family get-togethers. It commemorates July 4, 1776, when the nation's founders cut their ties to Britain to become a separate nation. For new citizens, the day has a special meaning, as VOA's Mike O'Sullivan learned at a recent ceremony in Los Angeles, where thousands of immigrants were sworn in as citizens.

Nation's Favorite Song Extols US Virtues, Acknowledges Flaws

click the picture to read the song lyrics and music

VOANews: Nation's Favorite Song Extols US Virtues, Acknowledges Flaws

Journey through American West inspires 'America the Beautiful' (download mp3)

Learn more at Wikipedia: America the Beautiful

West Wing Week 07/1/11 or "Magic Mountains and Volcanoes"

wh.gov: West Wing Week 07/1/11 or "Magic Mountains and Volcanoes"

This week, on West Wing Week, The President speaks about innovation in Pittsburgh, PA, visits an advanced manufacturing facility in Iowa, holds a news conference in the East Room and welcomes champion soccer and basketball teams to the White House. That's June 24th to June 30th or "Magic Mountains and Volcanoes"

Statue of Liberty Elbows Out Older 'Sister'

VOANews: Statue of Liberty Elbows Out Older 'Sister'

Miss Columbia used to hang with Uncle Sam (mp3)

BREAKING NEWS: Obama Calls for Comprehensive Immigration Reform!!!

VOA BREAKING NEWS: Obama Calls for Comprehensive Immigration Reform!

President Obama has called for comprehensive immigration reform in the United States.

The president said the country needs a system that upholds the law, while also upholding the nation's tradition as a land of immigrants.

He said border security and employment verification need to be addressed. And he said there should be a pathway to legal status for some of those in the country illegally, including young people who live here now, and who were brought to the U.S. by a parent or someone else.

West Wing Week 06/23/11 or "The Receding Tide"

West Wing Week 06/23/11 or "The Receding Tide"
Welcome to the West Wing Week, your guide to everything that's happening at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. This week, President Obama addressed the nation on his plan to withdraw American troops from Afghanistan, delivering on a promise he made to the American people in December of 2009. The President also traveled Fort Drum to meet with soldiers and their families, welcomed young elected officials to the White House, and talked to mayors from across the country about job creation and economic growth.

First Lady Challenges Africa's Youth

VOANews: First Lady Challenges Africa's Youth

On her visit to South Africa, U.S. first lady Michelle Obama has stepped into the spotlight and asked Africa's youth to join her on a quest for democratic progress, better education and wellness. VOA's Nico Colombant has more from Soweto, South Africa.

Americans React to President's Plans for Afghanistan

Americans React to President's Plans for Afghanistan

President Barack Obama's plan to withdraw thousands of U.S. troops from Afghanistan, beginning next month, is widely seen as a compromise - more than what top military officers advised, yet fewer than many lawmakers in Congress want. VOA's Carolyn Presutti sampled public opinion.

Barack Obama Exclusive VOA Interview on Afghanistan

Barack Obama Exclusive VOA Interview on Afghanistan

President Obama discusses his decision on withdrawing US troops from Afghanistan, the future of the US presence in Afghanistan, and the status of America's relationships with Pakistan and NATO in this exclusive interview with the Voice of America.

VOA Exclusive: Obama Defends Decision on Afghanistan Troop Withdrawal

VOA Exclusive: Obama Defends Decision on Afghanistan Troop Withdrawal

President Obama talks to VOA about his decision to bring 10,000 US troops home from Afghanistan by the end of the year, and the future of the US presence in that country. Andre DeNesnera reports.

Milpitas Adult School Citizenship Party

Milpitas Adult School Citizenship Party

ESL1 & ESL2 joined the Citizenship students End-of-the-School-Year party. Special Guest: New Citizen Su Menh Chu!

Define American: Jose's Story

DefneAmerican: Jose's Story

Define American is a project of the Tides Center, a nonprofit public charity. Our campaign is about asking: How do we define an American? Why do people come to this country? Who are the American citizens who help them? When it comes to undocumented immigrants, what would you do? As a teacher? A friend? A mother? Define American, with your help, will answer those questions.

Read the full story: My Life as an Undocumented Immigrant By JOSE ANTONIO VARGAS, NYTimes Magazine 06/22/2011

DefineAmerican Channel on YouTube.

World Refugee Day

USCIS: World Refugee Day

What is a Refugee?

Under U.S. law a refugee is an individual who:

• Is located outside of the United States


• Demonstrates that they were persecuted or fear persecution due to race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group Is not firmly resettled in another country


• Is of special humanitarian concern to the United States


• Is admissible to the United States

A refugee does not include anyone who ordered, incited, assisted, or otherwise participated in the persecution of any person on account of race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion.

Learn more:

• USCIS: Humanitarian


• USCIS The Beacon: World Refugee Day: One USCIS Officer’s Reflections


• ESL Holiday Lessons.com: World Refugee Day


• RefugeeWeek.org.uk Simple Acts Quiz

Presidential Weekly Address: Celebrating Fathers

Presidential Weekly Address: Celebrating Fathers

On Father's Day weekend, President Obama reflects on his experience as a parent and discusses the challenges and necessity of being a good father.

US Revises Deportation Program

VOANews: US Revises Deportation Program

U.S. authorities say they are modifying how they enforce a key immigration program to concentrate on the most serious criminals.

West Wing Week: 06/17/11 or "Where the Future Will Be Won"

wh.gov: West Wing Week: 06/17/11 or "Where the Future Will Be Won"

Welcome to the West Wing Week, your guide to everything that's happening at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. This week, walk step-by-step with President Obama as he meets with his Jobs Council to discuss ideas that will improve America's competitiveness, tours a leading manufacturer of energy efficient lighting in North Carolina, travels to Puerto Rico, hosts a Father's Day event for military dad's and their kids, and more.

Flag Day!

When is Flag Day?

My father displays the flag on Flag Day (June 14) and other civic holidays.

Flag Day is in June.

USCIS 100:52, the Pledge of Allegiance, the Oath of Allegiance, and the N-400

Compare USCIS 100:52, the Pledge of Allegiance, the Oath of Allegiance, and the N-400. Illustrated with USPS stamps of the American Flag. (download pdf)

New Citizen: Su Menh Chu!

New Citizen: Su Menh Chu!

This year Su Menh (blue shirt), his wife Sam Nhin (white shirt), her brother Phuc Nhin (not shown), and his wife Luong Mui (striped blouse) became US Citizens. Gung Hay! Chuc Mung!

In Texas, a Museum for a Larger-Than-Life Hero, Sam Houston

VOA Learning English: In Texas, a Museum for a Larger-Than-Life Hero, Sam Houston

Sam Houston was larger than life. The city of Huntsville, Texas, has a 20-meter-tall statue of him. It is said to be the largest statue of any American hero. Nearby, the Sam Houston Memorial Museum holds many of his belongings. Patrick Nolan is the director.

PATRICK NOLAN: "He is really the only man in our history who was president of an independent country, also governor of two different states, the only man to have that distinction, Tennessee and Texas, United States senator from Texas, commanding general in a very successful war." (read more)

Author Lisa See and the 'Dreams of Joy' of Two Chinese Sisters

VOA Learning English: Author Lisa See and the 'Dreams of Joy' of Two Chinese Sisters

We talk to Chinese-American writer Lisa See about her new book.Music from Broadway plays nominated for Tony Awards. And a visit to a job-training program for immigrants AMERICAN MOSAIC (download mp3)

LISA SEE: “I’m part Chinese. But I have red hair and freckles so I don’t look very Chinese, but I did grow up in a very traditional Chinese American family. I live in Los Angeles and today, in Los Angeles, I have about four hundred relatives, of which the majority of them are still full Chinese and there there’s this spectrum with me on one end – there are about a dozen that look like me – but then, sort of, this spectrum all the way up to the majority being full Chinese.”

She says she is also part Irish. Like most Americans, she celebrates her ethnicities.

LISA SEE: “I think all of us here in the United States, we all had someone in our families who was brave enough, scared enough, dumb enough, crazy enough to leave their home country to come here. But there is still a part of us that is tied to our original homeland and we all share in that feeling no matter where you came from.”

West Wing Week 06/10/11 or "Way to Get Our Money Back"

WH.gov: West Wing Week 06/10/11 or "Way to Get Our Money Back"

This week President Obama traveled to Toledo, Ohio, home to Chrysler's Supplier Park Complex. to congratulate auto-workers on the turnaround they helped bring about. At Northern Virginia Community College the President announced new initiatives that will help improve our manufacturing workforce. He also welcomed Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany for an official visit.

New USCIS Video: The Wrong Help Can Hurt: Beware of Immigration Scams

New USCIS.gov: The Wrong Help Can Hurt: Beware of Immigration Scams

Many firms and people offer help with immigration services. Unfortunately, not all are authorized to do so. While many of these unauthorized practitioners mean well, all too many of them are out to rip you off. If you need help filing an application or petition with USCIS, be sure to seek assistance from the right place, and from people that are authorized to help. To learn more, visit http://www.uscis.gov/avoidscams

Public service announcements in Spanish and English availble USCIS.gov YouTube.

West Wing Week: 06/02/11 or "One Step at a Time"

wh.gov: West Wing Week: 06/02/11 or "One Step at a Time"

This week, President Obama traveled to Joplin, Missouri to see the devastation first hand. He finished his week-long trip to Europe in Poland and on Memorial Day, he visited Arlington National Cemetery.

Flying the US Flag at Half-Mast

ESLPodcast Blog: Watch Where You Put That Flag

In the U.S., when an important person in government dies, flags are flown (displayed) at half-mast* or half-staff* (both terms are commonly used). Both of these terms mean for a flag to be flown lower on the flagpole (tall outdoor metal pole on which a flag is attached and shown). (read more)

Memorial Day 2011

USCIS 100:100. Name two national U.S. holidays.



NPR: Arlington Graves Of Iraq And Afghanistan Vets Digitized By Teen

VOANews: US Remembers Its War Dead
Americans honor US servicemen and women who gave their lives in service of the country on Memorial Day

VOANews: Obama Honors US War Dead on Memorial Day
America pays tribute to the men and women who died while in the military service

VOAVideo: 'Rolling Thunder' Veterans Group Rolls Through Washington | Jun 1, 2010

Memorial Day [May 31] is a U.S. national holiday that pays tribute to Americans killed in military service. Each year during the three-day holiday weekend around Memorial Day, the veterans group known as Rolling Thunder rumbles into Washington, D.C. The organization, with its roots in the Vietnam War of the 1960s and 1970s, focuses attention on those who were held as prisoners of war, or POWs, and who are still listed as missing in action, or MIA. VOA's Suzanne Presto takes us to the annual motorcycle gathering that culminates in the National Mall near the Vietnam Memorial.

USCIS 100:100. Name two national U.S. holidays.

▪ New Year’s Day

▪ Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

▪ Presidents’ Day

▪ Memorial Day

▪ Independence Day

▪ Labor Day

▪ Columbus Day

▪ Veterans Day

▪ Thanksgiving

▪ Christmas

Six Men, a World War, a Pacific Island and an Image for All Time

Raising the Flag on Iwo Jima, by Joe Rosenthal / The Associated Press.

VOA Learning English: Six Men, a World War, a Pacific Island and an Image for All Time

We remember the flag-raising captured in 1945 on Iwo Jima by a photographer and the famous statue of that historic moment THIS IS AMERICA (download mp3)

The U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial, located in Arlington, Virginia.

For more info about this image, see Wikipedia: Raising the Flag on Iwo Jima

ESL Podcast 689 – Listening to a Political Speech

ESL Podcast 689 – Listening to a Political Speech

Tired of the same nonsense from politicians? Learn how to complain about in English in this episode. Download Podcast
55. What are two ways that Americans can participate in their democracy?
▪ vote

▪ join a political party

▪ help with a campaign

▪ join a civic group

▪ join a community group

▪ give an elected official your opinion on an issue

▪ call Senators and Representatives

▪ publicly support or oppose an issue or policy

▪ run for office

▪ write to a newspaper

West Wing Week "OCONUS III: A Homecoming of Sorts"

VOAVideo: West Wing Week "OCONUS III: A Homecoming of Sorts"

This week, President Obama embarked on a six-day trip to Europe, visiting Ireland, the United Kingdom, France and Poland to engage our allies in the region on a host of issues. While overseas, the President pledged support for those back home affected by devastating tornadoes in Missouri and across the Midwest. Before leaving, the President met with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and went to the CIA Headquarters in Langley, VA. That's May 20th to the 26th, or "OCONUS (Outside the Continental United States) III: A Homecoming of Sorts.

Books That Celebrate America

Scholastic: Books That Celebrate America

Honor America's birthday with fiction and nonfiction that promotes patriotism, encourages reflection, and enlivens history.

Obama in London: 'The Time for Our Leadership Is Now'

VOAVideo: Obama in London: 'The Time for Our Leadership Is Now'

Addressing Britain's Parliament on Wednesday, US President Barack Obama sent a message that the United States and Great Britain will continue to lead efforts toward world peace and democracy. The president also visited British Prime Minister David Cameron.

Civil War Photographer's Work Draws Belated Praise

VOANews: Civil War Photographer's Work Draws Belated Praise

Traveling with the troops, George Houghton captured their daily life (download mp3)

USCIS Naturalization at Basic Training: Fort Sill, Oklahoma

VOAVideo: USCIS Naturalization at Basic Training: Fort Sill, Oklahoma

Congratulations, New Citizens!

Armed Forces Day

Armed Forces Day

President Harry S. Truman led the effort to establish a single holiday for citizens to come together and thank our military members for their patriotic service in support of our country.

On August 31, 1949, Secretary of Defense Louis Johnson announced the creation of an Armed Forces Day to replace separate Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force Days. The single-day celebration stemmed from the unification of the Armed Forces under one department -- the Department of Defense.

West Wing Week: 5/13/19 - 5/19/11 or "The Commencement at Booker T"

wh.gov: West Wing Week: 5/13/19 - 5/19/11 or "The Commencement at Booker T"

Welcome to the West Wing Week, your guide to everything that's happening at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. This week the President visited flood victims in Memphis,TN before speaking at the Booker T. Washington High School graduation, celebrated the Situation Room's 50th birthday, and gave a speech on the change sweeping across the Middle East and North Africa.

USCIS 100:52, the Pledge of Allegiance, the Oath of Allegiance, and the N-400

USCIS 100:52, the Pledge of Allegiance, the Oath of Allegiance, and the N-400

Compare USCIS 100:52, the Pledge of Allegiance, the Oath of Allegiance, and the N-400. Illustrated with USPS stamps of the American Flag. (download pdf)

Tweets from CLINIC11: USCIS Director Mayorkas

The Catholic Legal Immigration Network's mission is to enhance and expand delivery of legal services to indigent and low-income immigrants

The Catholic Legal Immigration Network (@cliniclegal Washington, DC) tweets from CLINIC-11 conference, May 18, 2011. Plenary Spearker UCSIS Director Mayorkas speaks about e-access to Citizenship and Immigration services.

cliniclegal CLINIC
Dir. Mayorkas of USCIS speaking now - TPS for Haitians wouldn't have happened without CLINIC and its affiliates #clinic11

cliniclegal CLINIC
It is through the sustained advocacy of CLINIC that we were able to reach the cherished day of yesterday #clinic11 -Mayorkas

cliniclegal CLINIC
Mayorkas speaking about coming to the U.S. as a refugee with his parents from Cuba #clinic11

cliniclegal CLINIC
Mayorkas- Question foremost in my mind is one of access. How can we serve individuals who are eligible for benefits? #clinic11

cliniclegal CLINIC
Office of Public Engagement was created for this. Not speaking to community, but engaging them #clinic11 Mayorkas

cliniclegal CLINIC
Mayorkas- we have worked with USCCB and CLINIC to talk about fee waivers and the high price of citizenship #clinic11

cliniclegal CLINIC
Mayorkas - We have plans to elevate our level of engagement and level of access to the disenfranchised #clinic11 mayorkas

cliniclegal CLINIC
Mayorkas- We open a window to see what your needs are and open a door to teach us as a shared community #clinic11

cliniclegal CLINIC
Mayorkas- We will model ourselves after refugee countries and will go mobile, reaching the people who can't reach us #clinic11

cliniclegal CLINIC
Mayorkas- we are pushing to become electronic/web based and allowing people to file via the web #clinic11

cliniclegal CLINIC
Mayorkas- being every mindful that we serve people that don't have access to computers and the web #clinic11

cliniclegal CLINIC
Mayorkas- we need you to help us bridge that divide. The longer there's no e-access to USCIS the longer w/out progress #clinic11

cliniclegal CLINIC
Mayorkas- Will not leave people disenfranchised who can't access computers, but this is a way to move forward #clinic11

cliniclegal CLINIC
Mayorkas- what if we took the money saved from being an e-based agency and gave it to non-profits instead? #clinic11

The American Red Cross

USCIS 100:55. What are two ways that Americans can participate in their democracy?



VOAVideo: The American Red Cross

The American Red Cross, the nation's premier emergency response organization, is celebrating 130 years of service. Its volunteers mobilize in times of disaster, war and crisis. And it all began with the vision of one woman: Clara Barton.

USCIS 100:55. What are two ways that Americans can participate in their democracy?
▪ vote
▪ join a political party
▪ help with a campaign
▪ join a civic group
▪ join a community group
▪ give an elected official your opinion on an issue
▪ call Senators and Representatives
▪ publicly support or oppose an issue or policy
▪ run for office
▪ write to a newspaper

Announcing the 2011 Citizens Medal

The 2011 Citizens Medal is a chance to recognize extraordinary citizens who have impacted their communities, but who may not have garnered national attention. Now's your chance to nominate an everyday hero in your community. Visit http://WhiteHouse.gov/citizensmedal and nominate a local hero today.

'Freedom Riders' Remembered 50 Years Later

VOAVdeo: 'Freedom Riders' Remembered 50 Years Later
In 1960, the U.S. Supreme Court outlawed racial segregation in restaurants and bus terminals serving interstate travel, but African-Americans who tried to sit in the "whites only" section risked injury or even death at the hands of white mobs. In May of 1961, groups of black and white civil rights activists set out together to change all that.

West Wing Week: 5/13/11 or "On the Border"

wh.gov: West Wing Week: 5/13/11 or "On the Border"

elcome to the West Wing Week, your guide to everything that's happening at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. This week the President talks clean energy and gas prices in Indiana, focuses on fixing our broken immigration system in Texas, and honors Top Cops here in the Rose Garden.

Library of Congress National Jukebox

National Jukebox LOC.gov The Library of Congress http://www.loc.gov/ presents the National Jukebox, which makes historical sound recordings available to the public free of charge. The Jukebox includes recordings from the extraordinary collections of the Library of Congress Packard Campus for Audio Visual Conservation and other contributing libraries. (download mp3)