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WRIGHT HERE- WRITE NOW ADULT EDUCATION STUDENT PUBLICATION

Greetings and Happy New Year! I am thrilled to introduce our latest initiative—a student publication that aims to foster a sense of connection and shared knowledge within our adult education student community. As the Dean of Adult Education, it brings me immense joy to witness the dedication and passion each of you brings to the classroom every day. This publication will serve as a platform to celebrate our achievements, highlight the remarkable work of our students, and provide valuable insights into the dynamic landscape of education. Together, we can cultivate an environment of continuous learning and collaboration. I encourage all of you to actively engage, share your experiences, and contribute to make this publication a valuable resource for everyone. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each one of you for your commitment. Your enthusiasm for learning and your dedication truly make a difference. I eagerly anticipate the vibrant discussions, inspiring stories, and shared experiences that will enrich our publication. Thank you for being an integral part of this wonderful community. Warm regards, Jamil Steele Senior Dean of Adult Education February, 2024

INSIDE THIS ISSUE AE Dean Message …... Student Writings…….. Our Countries ………... Cultural Traditions…. Student Writings ........... Citizenship Awardees .... Riddles ........................... SPECIAL POINTS OF INTEREST •

My Student Experience at Wilbur Wright College

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Someone You Should Know

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Many Recipes From Around the World

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Citizenship Recipients

•

Idioms

… I remember my grandma brought a wheat straw in the house as a symbolic reminder of the birth of Christ. By: Vesna Draca ESL Level 4—A. Kosmas weeks before Christmas, the Orthodox have a fasting. That means we don't eat: meat, eggs, or milk, basically nothing that has a connection with animals. We celebrate Christmas Eve on January 6th, the whole family together. In the past, a couple of generations lived together, which means there were big families. In the early morning, only men go into the woods to cut one oak tree which we call “Badnjak” . Then, they bring the tree home, but they don’t bring into the house before dinner. Women prepare food for dinner and every food item must be a lent food item and put on the table. After that, the ceremony for kids starts. I remember my grandma brought a wheat straw in the house as a symbolic reminder of the birth of Christ. Wheat straw stayed there for the next three days and we didn’t clean the house for three days. During this ceremony, my grandma went around the kitchen table and imitated a hen clucking and we followed her like little chicks. That symbolizes asking for gifts. Then we sat under the table into the wheat straws because our grandma put there some things like candy, walnuts, dried fruits, and a little money. I remember I was very happy and tried to collect more gifts than the other kids. It was a competition between us kids. My grandma passed away a long time ago, but I have been keeping her memory and the Christmas Eve spirit still alive.

By: Carmen Rodriguez ESL Level 4 A. Kosmas this Christmas celebration I miss being in my country with loved people being all together preparing dinner. For Christmas Eve, December 24 we are preparing everything for hayacas, chopping the ingredients for stew, kneading and coloring the flour. The most anticipated is hayacas and making the chicken salad, the ham bread, the Christmas cookies, the cream punch, the sweets, and the beautiful smile of the children waiting for the gift of Saint Nicholas. Seeing that perfect world through their beautiful smiles of purity and innocent and peace is one of the most beautiful that life gives me being all gathered together sharing without selfishness and without evil. It is wonderful! But for me the true meaning of Christmas is to remember the birth of our Lord Jesús Christ, the great gift that God the Father gave us more than 2000 years ago. He came to be among us and live with us. I imagine the great joy and smile of the Shepherds when the Angels gave the Savior, the immense light that radiated from the stars that guided then to the manger where the gift of the most high God is for us. Thus came the perfect gift for all of us. Jesús Christ was born, came, died on the cross, and was resurrected. This is the true meaning of Christmas for me. Blessings to all!

By: Rosalina Martinez — ESL Level 3 — K. Castronovo

HOLIDAY RECIPES APPLE SALAD This is the traditional recipe for every Christmas. It’s sweet and creamy treat.

INGREDIENTS: 8 apples 1 can of pineapple 1/3 cup of raisings 1 cup of sour cream 8 oz can of condensed cream Pecans

DIRECTIONS: In a large bowl, add the condensed cream. Cut up small pieces of pineapple and pour all ingredients into a bowl. Chop up the apples and add to the mixture gently with a spatula Place in the refrigerator and chill for 1 hour.

By: Kendrychs Javier Cantillo — ESL Level 3 K. Castronovo

Fororo This is a hot drink, typical of Venezuela. Ingredients:

1-) 250 gr. Dry corn 2-) 200 ml. whole milk 3-) 50 gr. Brown sugar 4-) 200 ml water 5-) Cinnamon powder 7-) 1 tablespoon of Vanilla Preparation: Toast the corn in a frying pan until golden brown and then grind. In a boiling pot mix all ingredients and stir until it has a dense texture. Serve in a bowl with cinnamon on top.

Online Conversion Calculator

https://goodcalculators.com/cooking-conversion-calculator/

TYPICAL FOOD OF ECUADOR By Mateo Criollo ESL level 3 — K. Castronovo

ENCEBOLLADO Fish encebollado is a typical Ecuadorian soup, from the coastal region, it is served with tomato and onion curtido, chifles, canguil or toast, and chili or hot sauce to taste.

INGREDIENTS • • • • • • • • • •

2 pounds of fresh tuna 1 pound fresh or frozen yucca 2 tablespoons of oil 2 chopped tomatoes ½ chopped onion 1 teaspoon ground chili or paprika 2 teaspoons ground cumin 8 cups of water 5 sprigs of cilantro or coriander Salt to taste

PREPARATION 1. Prepare a sauce with onion, tomato, cumin, chili and salt. Add the water and cilantro sprigs. 2. Add the tuna when the water starts to boil, cook until the tuna is done, about 15 minutes. 3. Add the tuna when the water starts to boil, cook until the tuna is done, about 15 minutes. 4. Strain the broth where the water was cooked and save it to cook the cassava.

5. Separate the tuna into slices, save to add later. 6. Bring the tuna broth to a boil and add the yucas, and cook until soft. 7. Take out the yuccas and cut them into small pieces. 8. Put the chopped yucas and tuna slices back into the broth, adjust the salt and heat until ready to serve. To give it more flavor, you can also prepare an addi tional portion of refrie sauce and blend it with a little of the broth, and add this mixture to the soup. 9. To serve the fish put a good portion of the onion and tomato curtido on top of each bowl of soup.

MY FIRST THANKSGIVING By: Hissel Sauceda—ESL Level 3—K. Castronovo

felt like it was Christmas, we started early to prepare the food and dessert. We decorated the Christmas tree, later the family started to arrive. We played games before dinner, then we set the table for dinner, after we turned off the oven which took a while for the turkey to be ready. I would have liked to drink the family punch.

PONCHE NAVIDENO INGREDIENTS *4 quarts of water *1 large piloncillo cone *3 cinnamon sticks *1 Lb. Tejocotes *1½ Lb. guavas *¾ cup prunes *1½ cup apples *1 cup pear *½ cup raisins *3 sugar cane sticks *1 cup of Tamarind pods

INSTRUCTIONS 1. Place water in a large stockpot. 2. Add the piloncillo (or brown sugar) and cinnamon to cook for about 15 minutes. If you are using fresh Tejocotes, add them with the piloncillo and cinnamon, since they take longer to soften. 3. Add the chopped guavas, apples, and prunes along with the rest of the ingredients like the sugar cane sticks, tamarind pods or hibiscus flowers. If you are using the canned version of the tejocotes, then add them in this step. 4. Simmer for about 1 hour. Serve hot in mugs, ladling in some of the fruit and adding rum to your liking.

*Rum to taste

TIPS & TRICKS Special Extra: Warm 2 Tbsp. hot fudge ice cream topping; drizzle over cheesecake before topping with the nuts and reserved chopped cookies. Refrigerate as directed SizeWise: Take the time to savor the flavor of this special cheesecake that can be included in a balanced diet on occasion.

NUTRITION INFORMATION

OREO & Peanut Butter "Cookie Dough" By: Ricardo Pateau Haiti — ESL Level3 K. Castronovo

INGREDIENTS 36 OREO Cookies , divided 3 Tbsp. butter , melted2 pkg. (8 oz. each) cream cheese , softened1 cup creamy peanut butter, thawed frozen whipped topping 1 cup powdered sugar 1 tsp. vanilla1.5 cups

PUTTING IT TOGETHER 1- Heat oven to 350ºF.

Makes 24 servings. Nutrition per serving:

2- Line 13x9-inch pan with foil, with ends of foil extending over sides;

3- Bake 6 to 8 min. or until lightly browned.

Total sugars 14 g - Includes added sugars n/a | Protein 5 g

spray with cooking spray. Crush 18 cookies finely; mix with butter. Press onto bottom of prepared pan.

Cool completely.

4- Beat cream cheese, peanut butter, sugar and vanilla in large bowl with mixer until blended. Gently stir in whipped topping.

5- Chop remaining cookies. Reserve 3/4 cup chopped cookies; stir remaining cookies into cream cheese mixture. Spread onto bottom of crust; top with nuts and reserved cookies.

6-Refrigerate 3 hours. Use foil handles to remove cheesecake from pan before cutting to serve.

MOROCCO By: Sara Elakri — L5—K. Castronovo I am from Morocco, exactly from South of Morocco the name of my city is “LAAYOUNE “8 miles inland from the Atlantic Ocean Laayoune means “the springs.” The city was founded by a Spanish captain “ANTONIO DE ORO” in 1938. In Laayoune there is a beautiful oasis. Here you can enjoy the beautiful view, and clean air.

Also, the city itself is home to UN peacekeeping forces known as MINURSO who have been here since 1991. Laayoune also named WESTREN SAHARA, my city famous for the sand dune, camels, fresh fish, tea, the beautiful beach “FOUM EL WAD” (the river’s mouth in English) is located just 20 kilometers (about 12.43 mi) from the city, here people surf and snorkel, and it is a safety city, there bBy to enjoy the sun and riding horses. is a lot of tourists come to Laayoune Also, we have a seaport on the Atlantic Ocean we call it (EL Marsa). The famous food in Laayoune is rice and camel meat, Fesh Corvina with rice and vegetables and you can enjoy eating fresh fish like sardines and octopus. People in Laayoune are very hospitable and friendly, and the most important is no visitor should leave without eating our meals and fresh fish, and of course no one will leave the city without sipping a cup of tea often called “ATAY” SAHRAWI tea is symbol of hospitality. Also, in Laayoune there is a Church is a roman catholic church (ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI CATHEDRAL). This church was built in 1954 during the Spanish colonial presence in Laayoune. The church now serves the small Spanish community who still lives in

...The famous food in Laayoune is rice and camel meat...

...COMFORT FOOD… —SO GOOD!

Beet Soup ( Borscht) By Tetiana Havryshchuk ESL Level 3 — K. Castronovo

Ingredients: 1 large onion; 3 large beets; 500 g. potatoes;

1. apple of one’s eye—a person that is adorned by someone 2. (have a) bun in the oven — be pregnant 3. bring home the bacon— earn the income 4. one smart cookie — someone very intelligent 5. a piece of cake—very easy

500g. meat; 1 large carrot; 500 g. cabbage; 3 large tomatoes;

3 tsp. sour cream; 3 tsp. oil; 3 tsp salt; Some garlic; Some fresh greens. Instructions:

1. Fill a large pot with water. 2. Put meat in the water and cook for 30 min. 3. In another pan put some oil , 1 onion , 1 carrot and 3 cut up

beets and fry tomatoes. 4.In the pan with meat add potatoes and cook 30 man. 5. Add fried vegetables in a pan with meat potatoes and cabbage and cook 20 min. 6. Add garlic, sour cream, fresh greens and cook 5 min. 7. Borscht is very tasty with bread and salo.

Ideas of Interesting and Fun Things By: Robert C Aguilar — ESL Level 5 — J. Kalsow can do many fun things in winter in CHICAGO, where the fun never ends. One of the most attractive activities to do is skating at one of the ice rinks in the city. The most popular one is at Millennium Park, this activity could be tough but you will have a lot fun. Other things to do in winter are sledding and snowshoeing. There are some places in the city that an area is prepared for this amazing activity like WRIGLEY FIELD STADIUM. Meet the cold-weather zoo animals at Lincoln Park Zoo, it’s a very interesting activity that you can share with all family. And here comes one of my favorites, enjoy and warm up your body with a hot cocoa at many nice and cozy cafes around the city.

By: Evelisse Batista ESL Level 3 — A. Kosmas thank God above all for everything he has given me, also to all those people who in some way have been part of who I am. To City Colleges for contributing to my personal growth! On December 24, by tradition, a dinner is held to share with the family. On the first day of the year, by tradition, the family gathers at one of the aunt's houses to celebrate the year. On that day, everyone brings a dish

share. On that day, more than 100 people gathered, including brothers, brothers-in-law, uncles, nephews. , cousins, among others, we all regret that this tradition will be lost since this year many of the organizers will migrate to the United States. By 2024 I hope with the power of God to be able to buy my house here in Chicago.

By: Estefany Hernandez — ESL level 3 K. Castronovo

Tepache is s a Mexican traditional drink, made from fermented pineapple with piloncillo, water and brown sugar. The best way to drink is cold with lemon and tajin. It is very refreshing. This drink is homemade. In my country, the people sell it on the street. Mexicans have made tepache since pre-Columbian times.

By: Karla M Romero — ESL Level 5 — J. Kalsow A Wet Christmas Eve I was a little kid, my family had this fancy Christmas tradition of putting the table out in the garden and eating in the nice night weather, but with the passing of the years my family grown up and soon it was necessary not just one table, but two, and sometimes even three. Obviously, there was not enough roof for all of us. Even with all the people it felt always magical this day, sharing experiences and making jokes about things that happened years ago. Until one year, hours before the big moment, started the rain. It was the rainiest day of the time. My grandmother didn’t know what to do, until my grandfather gave the idea of eating all together, sitting on the floor, the youngest and the oldest ones on the chairs. It wasn’t so fancy as years before, but it didn’t make it less magical than the other Christmas dinners and became our daily tradition.

BEST GIFT EVER By: Viktoriia Serediuk — ESL Level 5 — J. Kaslow of us like to give presents, others, on the contrary, prefer to receive gifts. I always choose something special for special people in my life and try to do it well. Despite my passion to prepare surprises and gifts, I adore receiving presents.

Frankly speaking, the best gift is not about money; it’s about great time spending together. Unfortunately, we live in such time, when we could buy whatever we want, but time it’s only one thing that impossible to buy. Memories of time spending together will be with you during all your life, and even time can’t take it. The best gift I have ever received – a vacation with an important person in my life! By: Boguslawa Bogusz — ESL Level 4 — K. Castronovo The most memorable day in my life was when my son was born. My life has completely changed since then. Taking care of him was so much fun, but also exhausting. He started walking when he was ten months old and absorbing every person, thing, animal and creature around him.The most important thing that we were able to build over the years is our mother-son relationship.

WHAT I AM THANKFUL FOR By: Morad Quallal ESL Level 5 J. Kalsow I’m thankful for my family. Ever

Is no stranger to the classroom. He’s currently serving as both a visiting professor at the University of Chicago and an Adult Education student at City Colleges of Chicago.

since I was

a child, my family was and is still supporting me with everything. I’m thankful, I’m alive, and I’m healthy.

Originally from Afghanistan, Fazel built his career as a professor and the founder of the Screenwriting Department at the University of Kabul. When his home city fell to the Taliban, a group of academics around the world stepped in to ensure Fazel could continue to share his gift of teaching with others. With their support, the Ahadi family first received asylum in Germany, but there were no professional opportunities for Fazel there. That’s when they decided to relocate to Chicago, where Fazel had

been offered a position at the University of Chicago. Fazel “couldn’t even speak two words of English” at the time, so he asked the Hyde Park Refugee Project (HPRP), which had furnished his family’s apartment and connected them to other resources, for help finding a class. “HPRP told me that the best option for attending English language learning classes is City Colleges,” Fazel said. “They took me to one of the City Colleges for confirmation and registration.” While on campus, Fazel was able to enroll in an online class with Instructor Marcus Wolfe at Wright College. “I entered the class and heard the voice of a kind man who told me ‘Fazel, welcome to my English class,’” he said. “On that first day of class, I found Mr. Wolfe to be a kind and capable teacher, and after that day, my English class became my second home.”

Fazel knows what it’s like to be in Mr. Wolfe’s shoes. He is currently a visiting professor in the Department of Cinema and Media Studies at the University of Chicago. Starting in December 2022, he began delivering several lectures on Afghan cinema and was able to introduce Afghan cinema and poetry to students and other professors. Today, he’s participated in more than 30 lectures at the university. Still, Fazel is impressed by Mr. Wolfe and his dedication to his students. “Mr. Wolfe’s teaching system is excellent,” he said. “He provides opportunities for students to talk and encourages us to be more involved. I have 17 years of university teaching experience, and I consider Mr. Wolfe’s lesson system to be the best. I love this teaching method and the student-centered approach.” One unique aspect of Mr. Wolfe’s class is that he incorporates lessons about the U.S. Constitution into the class curriculum. The Constitution Test is mandatory for anyone that wants to receive their Illinois High School Diploma, and many of his students hope to eventually do just that. The instruction helped Fazel pass the Constitution Test, which in turn inspired his 12-year-old daughter to take—and pass—the exam herself. Learning more about their new country and its language was important to Fazel and his family as they adjusted to life in Chicago. Though he admits the first days of their lives here were difficult, he says they received help from friends and community members, and they are now hopeful for the future. Four of the five Ahadi children are enrolled at Chicago Public Schools, where they’re practicing their English, and they also get plenty of practice at home with tutors and through TV and movies. “I think knowing the language is one of the most important necessities of life,” Fazel said. Beyond holding conversations with family and friends, Fazel has another goal for mastering the language—he wants to be able to teach in English. Currently a level four English as a Second Language (ESL) student, he hopes he can learn enough to be able to deliver lectures in English in 2024. Adapted from: https://colleges.ccc.edu/stories/fazel-ahad-ahadi/

By: Sebastian Felipe Palechor ESL Level 4 K. Castronovo The “Año viejo” is a tradition to say goodbye to the good and bad of the year and attract good luck for the one to come.

“Año viejo”

Every year has its time, every life has its time; every time, its joys and its sorrows. In Colombia, we mark all these changes thanks to a ritual: the “Año Viejo”, that ragdoll through which the sadness of the year is purged and we prepare for the future. This tradition says goodbye to the year that passed and helps prepare us for the upcoming year. The ragdolls are made by family, groups of friends or neighbors and exhibited in the neighborhoods

and outside the contest that some regional authorities organize, generally they were used to represent a non-specific way an old man with gray hair and wrinkles, but in the modern times it is used more to represent daylife situations with a sad or pitiful expression if the ragdoll is very elaborate. In many places, before or after the burning, a "testament" is read, in which, as the culmination of the celebration, with ironic or satirical language the events that characterized the period that ended are recounted and recommendations are given to your protagonists for the new year.

TYPICAL COLOMBIAN DISHES By: Manuela Paternina — ESL Level 4 — K. Castronovo

Colombia is a diverse country with a wide variety of food options. Some popular Colombian dishes include: 1. Ajiaco: A hearty chicken and potato soup with corn, avocado, and cream 2. Bandeja Paisa: A traditional Colombian platter featuring rice, beans, ground beef, chicharrón (fried pork), plantains, and an arepa (corn cake). 3. Empanadas: Fried or baked turnovers filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. 4. Sancocho: A flavorful stew made with beef, potatoes, and various vegetables. 4. Arroz con Coco: A sweet dish made with coconut rice, sugar, and cinnamon. 5. Buñuelos: Fried dough made from flour, sugar, and butter. 6. Colombian arepas are a traditional dish made from cornmeal dough, which is then grilled or fried. They are a popular snack in Colombia and are often served with various toppings such as cheese, avocado, or chicken.

By: David Ramirez ESL Level 5 K. Castronovo Gratitude & Holidays Specific Tradition in my Family of the most important traditions we have in my family is New Year's. Here we know how to get together to welcome the year with a special meal. What is customary to prepare in my house is hornado (pork) with its respective traditional accompaniment from my country, specifically it is this type of meat because there is the idea that it will bring good luck in the year that is about to begin. and it is believed that eating this special dish will do good in every sense, whether family, health or business. Hornado is pork which is seasoned and baked in a wood-fired oven, the time may vary depending on the size of the meat

The traditional accompaniments for this dish can be mote (cooked white corn), tostado (roasted yellow corn), it can have boiled potatoes or tortillas (mashed potatoes that are later refried) and a salad (mixture of tomato, avocado, onion and lettuce with vinaigrette).

The drink can vary between soft drinks, mineral water or wine. In addition, dessert is something important that cannot be missed, the traditional thing for these dates is the quimbolito (a kind of cake with raisins cooked with steam in a leaf) or the tamale (very similar to the previous one in the cooking process, but with another type of dough and ingredients) I think that the best thing about all this, apart from the food, is the time that is shared with all the members of the family since this will always be the fundamental pillar for there to be unity in the family.

By: Rufino Salgado — ESL Level 4 — K. Castronovo MY BEAUTIFUL CITY was born and raised in Gualan, Zacapa. Gualan is almost 4 hours the distance the capital of Guatemala. This town has a lot of shops and restaurants. The town fair is celebrated in the month of May 3rd to 10th in honor of Saint Michael Archangel. The traditional dishes reflect the history and tradition of the country, which is why several foods have been declared CULTURAL HERITAGE such as PEPIAN, JOCON AND KAK’ik

MY COUNTRY By: Jennifer Serrano— ESL Level 5—K. Castronovo I am from Guatemala. Guatemala is located in Central America. It is a south of Mexico, it has volcanoes, tropical forest and ancient Mayan sites. The Capital Guatemala City has National Museum of Archeology and Ethnology. Another famous place in Guatemala, is a Lake Atitlan, it is a formed in a huge volcanic crater, it is surrounded by fields and villages. Guatemala is a popular destination among travelers due it is known as THE LAND OF ETERNAL SPRING. By: Angel Santillan — ESL Level 5 — K. Castronovo is famous because we have good food; the most common ingredient is the tortilla. Tortilla are eaten and there are distinct ways to prepare tortillas. Michoacán is also famous for a its “butterfly monarch” which is an orange butterfly. The butterflies fly from Canada to Michoacán México from November to March. It’s so beautiful to see a big group of butterflies covering trees. I don’t have explanation why they arrive in México, but it looks beautiful. Michoacan is well known for its monarch butterfly. Its typical dishes and for its land and how fertile it is, since almost all fruits and vegetables are efficient when growing in these lands; the climate is very comfortable and does not vary so much.

By Flor Santillan ESL Level 4 K. Castronovo México is famous for many things - the gastronomy its pyramids, history and for its music . I’m from Michoacán Mexico . Michoacán is a central state neighbor to the state of Mexico , Jalisco and Colima. We have a lot creative artists and interesting areas to visit Mexico . I will focus on the music. Two of the must important stars of Mexican Music are Juan Gabriel and Marco Antonio Solís. They are composers in a Tegional Mexican Genre. This style of music can be described as romantic ballads. Songs like “Amor eterno” “Querida” “Donde estará mi primavera” “Sigue sin mí “ and others are famous around the

world. Juan Gabriel died mysteriously in California in 2016. Marco Antonio Solís is currently 63 years old and lives in Michoacán Mexico with his family , He has received multiple awards for his music and is considered one of the most important artists in the romantic ballad genre . As a solidly , before making his independent career her belonged to the group “Los bukis” which is why he know as “El Buki” Both artists have a star on the Hollywood walk of fame and many recognition. They have been recognized throughout Latin America and the United States.

By: Edison Jacome — ESL Level 4 — J. Salas My Experience in Adult Education Program at Wilbur Wright College already studied here for a year, I have had a good experience at the college, The flexible schedules have allowed me to organize my life between work and study. I like being in this program because it not only allows you to learn English but thanks to the diversity of cultures it allows you to learn much more about the way of life of people in other countries. Wright College also has teachers with very interactive methods who seek to teach their students in a more dynamic way, and I am very grateful for the support for every student. Finally, the only thing I could suggest is to allow students to enroll in more classes per week if they are interested. Hope everyone had Happy Holidays!

By: Diana Lizette Villamarin Figueroa — ESL Level 4 J. Salas my country Colombia we celebrate Christmas from December 16 with the novenas, they are praying, we do for 9 days, until December 24 where Baby Jesus is born. Every night the novena is prayed and food is made. It is something that people always look forward to. On December 24, which is Christmas Eve, we get together as a family and have a Christmas dinner with lots of traditional Colombian food, such as custard, Buñuelos, quail eggs, suckling pig and more. We have dinner at 9 pm, at m night the gifts are delivered with lots of Emotion is given to each one by the youngest of my entire

family, we always do it as a game, it is something very nice, for me the most important thing about Christmas is being with family. This will be my first Christmas in Chicago, I hope to enjoy it. Happy holidays and Happy New Year for eve-

By: Valiantsin Haroshka ESL Level 4 — J. Salas

My Experience of Studying at Wright College I’m going to tell you about my experience in Wright College. After coming to the USA, one of the right decisions was to go to learn English at Wright College. I found a lot of good people here, who help me with language learning and adaptation in the USA. I liked the teaching methods of Francisco Salas. Classes are fun, positive, and we play different games in English. During this period of study, my English has improved. I want to continue my studies at this college, take tests and study as an IT specialist.

By: Gloria Taxis — ESL Level 4 J. Salas My Visit to the Art Institute One of my good experiences at Wright College this year, was when I went to the Art Institute, because it was my first time visiting a museum here in Chicago. It was a very good experience. I saw many works of art, and I had fun. I am very grateful to the organizers at my school.

By: Carolina Zapata — ESL Level 4 — J. Salas My Celebration Navidena my name is Carolina Zapata. In my country our parties start the celebration Navidena.

On December 07, we have a Candle Lighting Day. Every lighted candle represents a wish. The whole family meets in the house. Then, on December 16th, the Novenas begin. They are prayers. We pray and sing Christmas Carols. Then on December 24, we celebrate the birth of child Jesus. We receive gifts and have a nice special dinner. On December 31st, we celebrate the arriving of the New Year.

By: Liliya Yatsyshyn — ESL Level 4 — S. Salas Tradition From my Country to Celebrate Christmas Many traditions and rituals are associated with Christmas in Ukraine. On the eve of Christmas, there is a holy evening, the obligatory attribute of which is 12 dishes on the table. There are two versions of the interpretation of this number - according to one it is the number of apostles, and according to another - the number of months in one year. The Christmas morning must be spent with the family. After lunch, you can visit your grandparents or other relatives. The main dish of the evening is kutya (boiled wheat mixed with poppy seeds and honey, walnuts, raisins. From the evening before Christmas, it is customary to carol with a big star in hand. Carolers sing carols and go to their neighbors to congratulate them on the coming Christmas and receive sweets and money for this. It is believed that the more carolers come, the greater will be the wealth in the family in the coming year.

By: Erika Martinez — ESL Level 4 — J. Salas CHRISTMAS IN MY COUNTRY from Mexico. I really love my country, but also I learned to love this beautiful country. I would like to tell you a little bit about my country’s traditions. On December 16th, we started with posadas. in the posadas we walk singing from one house to another house (like parade). After that we broke piñatas l, drink ponche and they give us candies. The smell is so good ( I miss them☹️ ). So we do posadas from 16th to 24th. On December 24th we singing to the child god and we put clothes to him (because he’s born), and then on January 4th we celebrate the Day of the Kings come to know the Child God. On this day the parents of the families buy a toy for their children of the house.

By: Gina Polo — ESL Level 4 — J. Salas

Christmas in Colombia December 24, one the most special Christmas traditions of Colombians take place. Christmas dinner is an occasion to gather the family around the table, including visitors from other countries. Bunuelos and custard are prepared and dinner is served at midnight, before giving gifts. And although there are many ways to experience Christmas, Colombia’s traditions are unique.

By: Yudy Torres —ESL Level 5—K. Castronovo is my city. It’s located in the center the country and it is at 2.600 meters above sea level, Its weather is like Chicago— in the morning cold, in the afternoon sunny, and in the evening rainy; it has crazy weather. This a chaotic city especially due to its traffic, but it is part of our daily lives. However, I love this city because it offers an infinity of options for you to feel well and enjoy your stay, among them is to visit SIMON BOLIVAR PARK it is located in the northeast, it is easy to get to, and there are several transportation options for visitors. The principal attraction is our lake where you can do boating, enjoy the view and nature, feed the ducks or use the swings that are in front of the lake. It’s an amazing experience that I recommended. Besides, you can walk around the park, ride a bike and enjoy different kinds of food; for example, “arepa de chocolo”, “salpicon” (mix fruits) so delicious; the majority of families visit parks on the weekends.

Other options offered by the city are famous museums as “MUSEO DEL ORO” where you can find pieces in gold made by indigenous people years ago. In the “National Museum” you find information about History from Colombia (ancestors, colonization’s etc.). One of the best places you can visit it is “Cerro de Monserrate” is a spectacular mountain located to east of the city, at its summit stands the church named “SEÑOR CAIDO DE MONSERRATE”, where many Colombians go to offer thanks to God for the favors received. Additionally, you will find small food area where you can enjoy typical dishes and purchase souvenirs, the access to this place can be done various ways, such as walking approximately 1.000 steps, using the cable car or taking the funicular. I don’t wantt to forget to mention that on weekends you can enjoy various nightlife spots where you can dance, have a beer, or enjoy shows. Bogotá is a multicultural space where everyone is welcome.

Adult Educator J. Salas’ ESL Classes visit to the Art Institute of Chicago Cultural Experience

By: Nataliia Tsentylo & Igor Mkhurdenko ESL Level 3 — R. Henry foods in Ukraine are borshch, varenyky with cherries, potatoes and mushrooms. The best food for us is salo with garlic and black bread. Also popular foods are various meat dishes, such as cabbage rolls, meatballs and cutlets. A signature dish in restaurants is "Kyiv cutlets". The famous cake is "Kyiv cake". Ukrainians like to barbecue outdoors. Ukrainians prefer “gorilka” as an alcohol drink.

Submitted by: Liliia Bachynska—ESL Level 3— K.Castronovo

By: Cristina Chavez — ESL Level 3 — K. Castronovo

My name is Cristina Chavez, and I am from Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico. This city is famous for food, drinks, music, and folkloric ballets that are performed in this city. The average temperature of the year is 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Visitors are welcome at the city, the most popular food is brirria, pozole, tamales, and tortas that are drowned in a spicy sauce. Tejuino is one of the most popular drinks in our drinks section. There is nothing better than a refreshing drink like this one. There is no doubt that this drink can compete with tequila in terms of taste. They called it the drink of the gods, the Tejuino. It comes from a tribe called the Huichols. The language spoken in my country is Spanish, and the traditional music is Mariachi. The cathedral, which is the most recognizable building in the city, is the most famous building of the city. A famous actor by the name of Vicente Fernandez was born on the outskirts of the city. He was born on the edge of the city.

By: Ganna Bidos — ESL Level 3 A. Kosmas There are many holidays in Ukraine. Ukrainians keep many traditions, they are interesting and fun. I love to celebrate Christmas. But before this great holiday, my family, like all Ukrainians, prepares a "holy dinner". This is a very good start to Christmas. On January 6, we will prepare 12 dishes during the day. All these dishes are songs. These are: kutia, dumplings with cabbage, dumplings with cherries, borscht, cabbage rolls, fish, donuts, uzvar and other dishes. Meat is not used in these dishes. When the first star appears in the sky, dad brings "Grandpa", hay and lots of candy to the house. He blesses everyone and scatters candy. Children collect them. Everyone sits down at the table, prays and has dinner. They start from the corner. You have to taste all the dishes. During dinner, we sing carols, glorifying the newborn Jesus. Many children come to the house and carol. For this they are given gifts. And in the morning we celebrate Christmas.

Merry Christmas!

By: Andaleeb Alwahsh — ESL Level 3 K. Castronovo

I am grateful to God who created me and blessed me with my family. I always thank Him for His blessings in my prayers. We Muslims fast the month of Ramadan and gather with the family at the dining table every day for a month. We prepare various foods. We abstain from eating from sunrise to sunset. After the end of Ramadan, Eid comes after it. We serve coffee and cakes that we bake at home and gather with the family throughout the days of Eid. How beautiful it is. One of the days we wait for every year!

By: Martha Perez — ESL Level 3 K. Castronovo

I was born in Mexico. In Mexico, the weather is temperate, in the morning it is sixty degrees and in the afternoon it feels good between seventy or eighty degrees.

My parents were farmers, they had a big farm with cows, hens and pigs.

I lived in a big house because I like to plant roses and a lot flowers.

I lived with my parents and my brothers and sisters.

Yes, I had birds, dogs and cats who didn't like me �

Iruna Bilas—ESL Level 3— R. Henry Kutia (Kutya) is a traditional Christmas wheat berry pudding. It is popular in Ukraine and various other parts of Eastern Europe. It’s a very special dish that is served on Christmas Eve. Ingredients: 1cup of wheat berries 1 cup of milk or water 1/2cup poppy seeds 1/2 cup honey 1/2 cup raisins 1/2cup dry apricots, chopped 1/2 cup slivered almonds salt Preparation: Place cooked wheat berries in a mixing bowl, add ground poppy seeds, 1/2 cup raisins, 2/3 cup dry chopped apricots, 2/3 cup toasted slivered almonds, honey-milk mixture and 1/8 tsp salt. Mix everything together and place in a casserole or pie dish, than bake your kutia for 20 minutes uncovered at 325˚F. Remove kutia from the oven, cover with foil and let it rest 15 min. Serve warm or cold.

At Wright College, the Adult Education Department provides courses for students who wish to enhance their language skills, obtain their high school diploma equivalency, and transition into college credit or job credential programs. We have a Bridge program for students who want to get job credentials while improving their language and/or obtaining their high school equivalent diploma. We offer the Basic Nursing Assistant (BNA), Manufacturing, Information Technology (IT), and Construction bridges. The Wright College Transition Team helps Adult Education, Career Bridge, and Gateway students as they continue their education. We connect students with valuable resources and people to make their journey easier.

My name is Edgar Gonzalez Balcarcel; I immigrated from Guatemala. When I came to the country, I did not know English, so I took ESL and High School Equivalency classes at the Adult Education Department at City College of Chicago. Then, I transferred to College Credit Classes. I obtained an associate degree from Wilbur Wright College. After that, I transferred to Depaul University; I graduated with A Bachelor's degree, majoring in Business administration with Summa Cum Loud Honors. I had the honor of working in the Financial Aid department here at Wright College under the leadership of Executive Director Norberto Valentin, where I expanded my knowledge about the Financial Aid World. I now work as a Transition Specialist at the Adult Education Department here at Wright College under the leadership of Senior Dean Jamil Steele. I am very excited to be able to work in the place that has helped me since the beginning. Any student is welcome to stop by my office, A251. I am more than happy to help and be able to guide students to have a successful pathway through the Adult Education Department. Come to the Adult Education Office in Room A205 for more information!

Congratulations to the Adult Education Students who passed the Citizenship Exam in 2023! We are proud of you and wish you the best in all of your future endeavors!

Saida Dehemchi — January 11, 2023 Ljiljna Dukic — March15, 2023 Wilma Rocha — March 22, 2023 Naima Abdelhamid — April 12, 2023 Jean Noriega — April 12, 2023 Bridget Stephens — May 13, 2023 Elsa Puma — May 25, 2023 Anna Bielak — June 1, 2023 Mohammed Bensalem — June 1, 2023 Zineb Belgaoui — July 21, 2023 Alejandra, Carfusaza — September 11, 2023

Natalya Rolska — September 27, 2023 Sevjana Sulko — October 5, 2023 Iris Puyalena — October 5, 2023 Yorman Soto — October 12, 2023 Juan Reyes — November 15, 2023 Anatolii Pozdniakov — December 12, 2023 Vesna Draca — December 13, 2023

RIDDLES 1. Which is faster? Hot or cold? 2. What has teeth but cannot eat? 3. What kind of dog never bites? 4. What’s never used until it’s broken? 5. What is the largest ant in the world? 6. What can you swallow that can also swallow you?

7. Why is a river rich? 8. What man cannot live inside a house? 9. What is it that you ought to keep once you give it to somebody else? 10.What can you hold in your left hand, but not in your right hand?

Riddle Answers 10.your right hand

5. an ELEPHant

9. a promise

4. an egg

8.a snowman

3. a hot dog

7. it has two banks

2. a comb

6. water

1. hot, you can easily catch a cold!

1. What classes do you offer ? We offer classes in: • Spanish GED • ESL / GED • Computer Skills • Citizenship • Oral Communication • Career Bridge. Visit the Career Bridge site to see current career choices.

2. How much do your classes cost ? All Adult Education classes are free.

3. How long are your classes ? We offer 16, and 8-week classes in the fall and spring, and 12 week classes in the summer semesters. Click here to view the Academic Calendar for more information.

4. Are any classes offered as hybrid courses ? Yes. Students have the option to take traditional hybrid classes, when part of the class meets inperson and the other class meets online. Additionally, we have Hybrid-Online Live classes that are completely online, with synchronous instruction through Zoom and some independent work through Brightspace or myOpenMath.

5. Am I eligible to take ESL/HSE prep classes ? You must be an Illinois resident to take Adult Education classes. We accept all visas except the J1, J2, F1, or F2 visa.

6. Where can I take ESL/HSE classes ? Adult Education classes will be offered both in-person and as online. You will indicate your preference for distance learning or in-person classes as part of the enrollment process.

7. How do I register for classes ? New students to Adult Education should complete the Adult Ed online application or visit the Adult Education office at your college. If you need help with your application, our offices are open for in-person support or you can visit Virtual Student Services. You can click on your college to contact the Adult Education department directly or find general assistance via the live chat. If you are a returning student, you can visit the Adult Education office in Room A205 or send an email to your college’s Adult Education staff: WrightAdultEd@ccc.edu

Wright Here— Write Now is a an Adult Education Student Publication containing original pieces of writing submitted by GED and ESL students. Student articles have been edited only for spelling, punctuation and grammar errors which impede meaning.

Celebrate Black History Month

The Black History Month celebrations continue all month long at City Colleges to honor Black people, culture, and traditions. Celebrate Black History Month with your City Colleges community by making plans to attend an event featuring food, film, art, and more.

All Adult Education Students

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