my American friend

M - In this episode we're going to talk about DATING !

C -We've chosen a spicy topic this time, haven't we?

M – Well, you know, I was wondering : what do you study a foreign language for?

C - To improve your career maybe, for doing business abroad, but also we study foreign languages in order to travel around the world and meet new and exciting people.

M – Exactly, new people you get to know and you may feel like dating. New people you may even start a relationship with. By the way, does that sound familiar to you?

C – Yeah, it does, my husband is Italian, but he could speak English well enough to ASK ME OUT ON A DATE !

M – Actually GOING ON A DATE with someone who speaks a different language is not that easy, so, listeners we are going to help you!

C - Today we're going to use a lot of words and expressions about dating, make sure to read the transcript of this episode by downloading it on your iPod or by visiting our page on podomatic.com that's spelled p o d o m a t i c : the transcription includes the list of all the specific words and idioms about dating with relevant explanations.

M – All right. Cindy, let's say that I am to date an American guy, like, I don't know, Jon Bon Jovi.

C – oh, You picked a good one!

M – Well, it could happen sooner or later! And we may need to listen to some New Jersey accent, so Jon, we'd be glad to have you here!

C – Yes, Jon Bon Jovi, If you feel like being our guest on any future episodes, you're more than welcome!

M – Oh, Cindy, I think we'd better explain this one to our listeners. To feel like doing something.

C – It's a very common expression. It means : to be in the mood for doing something. An example of a conversation could be : What do you feel like doing tonight? I'm tired, I don't feel like going out. I feel like watching a DVD on the sofa.

M - and do you remember that song : “don't feel like dancing, dancing...”

C – yeah, that's it.

M – All right, now let's go back to dating. Jon is waiting for me.

C – Shall we start from “pick-up lines” ? You know, those sentences you say in order to “break the ice” and start a conversation with someone.

M – All right. Shoot !

C – Ok, let me give you a few examples of common ice-breakers. You can use :

I think I've seen you before... do you come here often? haven't we met before? would you like to dance / take a walk / have a drink ? do you have a lighter/cigarette? could you tell me what time it is? I really like your....whatever

M – and if the ice-breaker is successful...

C - ...and you HIT IT OFF , meaning you're compatible and you GET ALONG WELL ...

M - then someone will make the first move!

C - and ask the other out on a date. The ideal dating situation is when you know who you're going out with, but this is not always the case in a BLIND DATE.

M - what's a blind date?

C – the dreaded blind date! This is a source of great pain or pleasure! A blind date is when a friend arranges the date for you with someone they feel is a good match for you. That is to SET SOMEONE UP on a blind date. But don't worry if it's not love at first sight and you have nothing in common with the person you have been set up with, make a polite excuse, GO DUTCH and go home in separate cars.

M – oh, and going Dutch means....

C – each person pays for their own meal.

M – But there are other ways to meet new people nowadays.

C – Yes, many people meet on-line in chat rooms. Or through dating services and speed dating, personal ads in the newspapers. Whatever method you choose just take your time, be careful, really do your best to know who you're going out with.

M – and also be sure that you both have the same intentions, that you're looking for the same level of commitment in the relationship.

C – or someone could have their heart broken. For example you wouldn't pair a WOMANIZER with a woman who wants to settle down and start a family. That would be a lose lose situation, that means both sides would be at a disadvantage.

M – and they should break up and CALL IT QUITS. That means end the relationship.

C – and one more thing about ending a relationship: to DUMP. To dump someone means to drop someone, to throw them away. For example: “he was dumped” means he wasn't let down easily. And, people, don't ever dump anyone via text message, that's kind of rude, or even worse ...through facebook!

M – how about to TURN SOMEONE DOWN? What does that mean?

C – to turn someone down means to refuse a date or a dance. For example : Marta, because we are friends, if Jon Bon Jovi asked me out on a date I would turn him down.

M – Really?

C – No, you're right. I'd say yes. But don't worry, I'd stand him up.

M – stand him up?

C – yeah, to STAND SOMEONE UP means to arrange a date and then blow it off. We agree on a time and a place, but then one person doesn't show or call to cancel.

M – oh, I see. Anyway, Cindy, don't worry, if Jon calls me we can arrange for a DOUBLE DATE, and you can invite whoever you want.

C – Oh, that's a great idea, I could take your husband for example!

M – hey, wait a minute, we're just kidding here, I'm not having an AFFAIR with Jon Bon Jovi.

C – you just have a crush on him and you're just flirting with the idea!

M – yeah, HAVING A CRUSH ON someone, that's useful for you listeners! Take notes!

C – There's no other feeling like it ! Remember when you first met that special someone you were NUTS about? And the feeling of BUTTERFLIES IN YOUR TUMMY ?

M – Oh, love!

C – Marta have you written any songs about love?

M – Hundreds!

C – Can you sing us out on this podcast? Can you do us the honor?

M – I'd be happy to, but first let me remind our listeners about our websites. You can find us on PODOMATIC.COM and on martainnocenti.com and of course on iTunes.

C - and you can easily reach us on facebook on the 'my American friend - podcast” page. Come visit us! We welcome your comments and suggestions. Otherwise we'll feel like you're not that into us. And we'd really like to have a second date.

M - Thank you for listening! See you next time!

C - and folks I give you the beautiful Marta Innocenti...

M – don't make me blush!

C – they can't see you, it's a podcast!

******

TO FEEL LIKE DOING SOMETHING : to be in the mood for doing something

DATING : when two people are romantically involved

TO GO ON A DATE : to meet someone at a scheduled time and place usually with romantic intentions

TO ASK SOMEONE OUT : to invite someone on a date

TO HIT IT OFF / TO GET ALONG WELL : to be compatible

BLIND DATE : an arranged date between two people who have never met before

TO SET SOMEONE UP : to introduce one person to another

TO GO DUTCH : every person pays for their own meal/entertainment

WOMANIZER : a man who enjoys chasing lots of women

CALL IT QUITS : to end something

TURN SOMEONE DOWN : to refuse, to deny

STAND SOMEONE UP : to abandon a date without notification first

DOUBLE DATE : two couples on a date together

AFFAIR : a relationship outside of a committed union

TO HAVE A CRUSH ON SOMEONE : to be attracted to someone

TO FEEL BUTTERFLIES IN YOUR TUMMY : nervous excitement at the prospect of new love

*****

Song: “Partner in Crime”, written and performed by Marta Innocenti.

For any additional information visit www.martainnocenti.com , or the acoustic duo website www.12n.biz

The lyrics:

PARTNER IN CRIME

We’re the king and the queen of the view we can see from the balcony

of the sunset on the hills, of a milky way ceiling

we’ve been feeding a dream

and we know what it means to sweat for each step

well, we made it happen in the end oh yeah!

Yes Man! I’m your Girlfriend

I’m the Best Friend that you ever had

Yes Man, that’s right, I’m your Partner in Crime

I’m the mirror you need to remind you the warrior you can be

I’m the music that you hear with a speedy heartbeat

And the road’s getting clearer riding together the same motorbike

We keep playing all the keys, both black and white oh yeah!

Yes I will never forget the whisper of death

In that room of the hospital

But we painted the walls with the colours of love

Cause we knew : 'OMNIA VINCIT AMOR'

and bad weather may come and the angels may fall

Oh, we got each other !

C - Hey listeners,  we'd like to thank each and everyone of you because our first three episodes have been downloaded by a whole lot of people from all over the world and in such a short period of time.

M - So thank you very much !

C – To make the most of your listening comprehension you can find us on podomatic.com, that's spelled p o d o m a t i c , where you can read complete transcripts of each and every episode.

M - And of course you can find the links to the 'my American friend' page on podomatic also on iTunes and on martainnocenti.com. That's spelled M a r t a I n n o c e n t i.

C - Now you can easily reach us on facebook on the 'my American friend' page,  where you can get all the episodes and additional stuff,  like idioms, new words and so on. Come visit us and feel free to leave us your comments about 'my American friend' and any suggestions you may have for future episodes. Drop us a note!

M – What do you mean by 'Drop us a note' ?

C - I don't mean to physically drop something, like on the floor, I mean to casually send us an e-mail, leave us a message or feedback.

M – So it's like : let us know what you think, get back to us.

C – Exactly.

M – And what about ...something more formal ?

C – Sure, you could say: we look forward to hearing from you. Or : do not hesitate to contact us (that's great for business). Or : we sincerely await your prompt reply.

M – But we're not that formal with our listeners. So just : drop us your feedback !

C – Yes, we'd like to hear feedback from all over the world, so we may tailor our future podcasts to your needs.

M – Well, thanks everyone and stay tuned !

C - New episodes are coming very soon! Bye bye! Have a great day, everyone!

*********

HOW TO ASK FOR FEEDBACK:

- drop us a note

- let us know what you think

- get back to us

- we look forward to hearing from you

- do not hesitate to contact us

- we sincerely await your prompt reply

to TAILOR something to your needs : to adjust it, to shape it according to your needs.

M - In this episode we're going to talk about DRIVING !

C -Nearly everyone owns a car in America. In cities you will find trains and subways and city buses, but as soon as you exit the city limits you may find it difficult to maneuver about without a car.

M – Maybe that's why car rentals are so commonly used.

C - We have a well developped and maintained system of highways and secondary roads, and driving coast to coast maybe is the best way to experience America. By driving you can enjoy the people and places that don't make it into the guide books.

M – In Europe a lot of people have the dream of being out on the open road, riding a Harley Davidson motorcycle maybe on Route 66, lost in the endless landscape

C – We all wish we could kiss our job goodbye and hit the road !

M – Hey, listeners, if you plan to make this dream a reality, before you go, do a little research and familiarize yourselves with the rules of the American road!

C – You won't find the same organized chaos that you find in some parts of the world, driving laws are strictly enforced. We drive on the right side of the road, we get our driver's license at 16. In case you rent a car, you must be at least 25.

M – What if I'm driving and I come upon a check-point? What will the cop do to me?

C – First off, don't call him a cop. The police officer will stop you and ask for your documents, your driver's license and vehicle registration, if he finds a violation you will be issued a ticket.

M - A ticket.

C - And if you think you don't have to pay your ticket because you live outside of the Country, you may receive it at home in the mailbox.

M – ...exactly like a birthday card !

C - Except that this asks you for money .

M – Yes. Well, back to our check-point, what else may the officer be searching for?

C- Anything really, undocumented immigrants, drugs, drunk drivers... if the officer suspects you may be under the influence of alcohol you may be given a breathalyzer test.

M – So, listeners, don't drink and drive!

C - The penalties are severe.

M - Before you go out make sure you have a designated driver.

C - Or cab money. And make sure you do not have any open liquor bottles or cans in your car while driving.

M – Cindy, in order to introduce the next topic I'm gonna quote the film 'Top Gun'.

C – Do it!

M – 'I feel the need ... the need for speed ! ' So, let's talk about it.

C – Speed is great , speed is a lot of fun, as long as you're within the limits. You won't get very far before you come upon an officer with a radar gun and “the need....to catch you!”

M – That reminds me of a quote by Dudley Moore: “The best car safety device is a rear-view mirror with a cop in it.”

C - Works for me every time! So keep an eye on the speed limit signs and be aware that the limit can change quickly for instance from 55 miles per hour to 35.

M – Oh, and a mile is about 1.6 km.

C – Remember when you're travelling abroad to check the unit of measure, for example if you need to get gas, to gas up, gasoline is measured in gallons.

M – A gallon is about 3.79 liters.

C- Right, since gas prices are rising steadily I recommend you pick an economy car when choosing a rental. Stay away from the gas guzzlers.

M – ...gas what?

C – A gas guzzler, a vehicle that drinks gasoline because it's too large or too old and inefficient. To guzzle means to drink or eat fast. For example: it was really hot and I was parched, that is to say I was really thirsty, so I guzzled down a bottle of water.

M – Ok, clear. When I went to America I rented an economy car and it was also very easy to operate.

C – Most cars in America have automatic transmission and many offer cruise control. Two things that make long journeys more comfortable. As well as radio traffic reports around big cities, that can help you during rush hours, times of heavy traffic.

M – Well Cindy, traffic reports would have helped me, had I understood them!

C – Oh, would you like to go through a traffic report with me? We can review some of the words together.

M – All right, that's a great idea. And you're on in 3... 2... 1 !

C - I'm Cindy with your Ride Home Traffic Report. A few problems out on the beltline this evening due to ''black ice'' making your evening commute a bit longer than usual. There's a multi-car pile up on the inner belt line. Emergency personnel are on the scene clearing away debris. The outer belt line is clear, but starting to slow down due to some rubbernecking from passersby. There's a minor fender-bender at exit 12, but all vehicles have been cleared from the scene and traffic lanes are once again moving. That's all for now on your Ride Home Traffic Report. Drive safely everyone.

M – All right, could you explain a few things, starting with the “beltline” ?

C – The beltline or beltway is a highway that by-passes the city center and makes a circle around the city.

M – And “black ice”.

C – Black ice is rain that has frozen over, so it's the same color of the road and very dangerous.

M – And what is a “commute”?

C – Your commute is your journey from your home to your school or workplace.

M- And then a “pile up” ?

C - That's a multi-car accident. More than one car has been involved.

M – What's next? “rubbernecking”.

C – Have you ever noticed, Marta, that whenever there is an accident on one side of the highway the traffic slows down on the opposite side?

M – Yeah, always and that drives me crazy!

C – Me too! that's rubbernecking, drivers slowing down, because they're turning to look at the accident that happened on the other side.

M – The last one: “fender-bender”.

C – A fender-bender is a minor accident , with minor damage.

M – It's all clear now, the next time I visit the States I will surely understand the local traffic reports.

C – And our listeners too ! Hey guys, just a couple of rules to avoid close calls, and by close calls I mean to come close to having and accident.

M – Ok.

C - #1 : when you get to an intersection with a 4 way stop sign the driver to arrive first is the first one to go, so pay attention and wait your turn. #2 : in many cases it is possible to turn right at a red light unless there is a clear sign stating “no right on red”.

M – Oh, that's why everyone was beeping at me when I was in Los Angeles ! Speaking of L.A., I noticed special lanes in the highways over there, called car pool lanes.

C – Bigger cities will have car pool lanes on a highway, lanes designated for passenger vehicles with 2 or more people.

M – Any other rule?

C - #3 : do not tailgate, keep a reasonable distance between you and the car in front of you. If you follow too closely the driver in front of you may slam on the brakes to signal that you're too close.

And #4 : don't ever cut anyone off.

M – To cut off ?

C – To pull in front of a car abruptly without signaling first causing that driver to slam on his brakes.

M – It's best to be thoughtful and never cut off a truck driver for example, expecially not the one I'm about to introduce to you now.

Hello, Barbara, welcome to ‘’My American Friend’’ thanks for being here.

B - You can just call me, Barb. Like ‘’barbed wire’’ . All my friends do.

M - Ok, then...Barb. Thanks for stopping by.

B - You Mexican?

M - Well..no Barb. I’m Italian.

B - Oh, my bad. I thought you’s Mexican. I like Mexicans. They’s good hard workin people.

M - ...I'm sure they are...

B - (sound of beer can opening) Y’all party?

M - Well...Barb enjoy your beer, but Cindy and I don't usually drink while recording our podcast, do we Cindy?

C - Not usually at 10 o’clock in the morning.

M – Right.

B - You a goddamned Yankee! That’s a dang ol’ Yankee voice. Ain’t nobody told me they gon' be a dang New York Yankee up in here!

M - No, Barb, Cindy is from Connecticut.

B - An that’s close-a-damned-nuff.

M - Come on, Barb, Connecticut is a beautiful state!

B - I ain’t never lost nothing up north and I ain’t got no reason to go there.

M – Cindy, where are you going ?

C - Marta, I’m not feeling the love here. I’ll see you later ..

B - That’s right, take your ass on Yankee. Git! Aint no love for you here. I do Civil War reenactments, they call me the ‘’mule skinner’’! Y’all got a mule round here?

M - No... I’m sorry, we’re fresh out of mules here in the studio.

B - At’s too bad. Y’all mind if I smoke, it’s my day off? (sound of cigarette lighter)

M - Oh..you smoke cigars?

B - Yep, granny got me started. Nasty habit.

M - Well, thank you for joining us on your day off. what do you do for a living?

B - I’m a chicken truck driver.

M - A chicken truck driver?

B - Yes, a chicken truck driver. What? Oh, you think the chicken just gonna fly up onto your plate? Like you’re goddamned Lady Diana?

M - No.. I was just trying to get a visual on that.

B - I come from a long line of chicken truck drivers. My momma & daddy drove a chicken truck. My husband drives a chicken truck. And my daughter, Britney LeeAnn Jr.... They’s some hard working people behind every bite of food you eat.

M - And we sincerely thank you for that. Barb. Tell me, are you going to drink and drive after finishing that beer?

B - Aww, hell no. I learnt my lesson years ago. Had a close call out on a country road one night coming back from the bar.

M - Oh no...

B - Yeah, it was terrible. Put me straight off drinking and driving for good. I’d learned my lesson good that night.

M - What happened ?

B - (sigh) I’s drivin’ home after my 13th birthday party Momma throwed for me down at the bar...

M - ..wait....did you say 13th?

B - 13th....I had a little too much hooch that night, we's riding home in the old truck and my little brother saw it first. Big ol’ deer running like the wind.

M - Oh no!

B - Yep. I didn’t see him. I'd been drinking. My good judgment was compromised. I’d had the shotgun right there in the seat behind me.

M - ...wait, shotgun? What happened?

B - Big ol’ deer. Pretty one too. Lot a meat on him. Ran right on by. I missed him. I’d had a clear shot and I missed him. I coulda shot the som’ bitch and my whole family woulda eaten good for days. But my judgment was clouded by the devil’s juice... and my family went hungry.

M - That’s an amazing story.

B - I know. See, I’d learnt a valuable lesson that day, so young... that the things I do affect not only me but the ones around me. These actions touch my family, my friends old and new- such as yourself Marta.

M – Thank you.

B - So y’all be thoughtful of those around you. Don’t drink and drive. Before you party, appoint a designated driver. Someone who will stay sober and not drink. Or call a taxicab. It’s worth it in the long run.

M - Thank you, Barb. Thank you for your wise words.

B - I need to go now. Keep the Yankee in the closet until I’m out of sight.

M - Ok, Barb, thanks again and come visit any time.

B - I will. Y’all take care and come see us some time. Just don’t bring the Yankee.

M - I promise.

B - Bye y’all.

M - Bye Barb. Oh my goodness! So her problem was that she wasn't able to shoot the deer and her family went hungry, not that she was 13 and driving, drunk and driving. Oh!

Well, Cindy! Cindy come back here!

C – Is she gone?

M - Yes Cindy, she's gone. Tough woman, uh?

C – Did she open that beer with her teeth?

M – yeah.

C- That's a perfect example of who you should not cut off or tailgate while driving in America, like we said, riding a harley on route 66.

M- Then the dream would become a nightmare. Cindy, since you mentioned the motorbike again, there's something I want to ask you. I noticed that not all bikers wear helmets.

C – The helmet laws can change from State to State. So be sure to check on line before you go. Because you may find yourself in traffic court if you don't wear a helmet when you're supposed to.

M - And I know you have a story about that, don't you Cindy?

C – I do. A true story, I won't give you all the details, but I did find myself three years ago in a certain traffic court with a brilliant man who thought he would evade the cops by wearing a black trash bag on his head instead of a helmet.

M- A trash bag?! are you serious??

C – I swear it's the truth. I heard his attorney say: “So, you were wearing a trash bag on your head?” and the man nodded in agreement.

M – I wonder what Barb would say about that...

C - I think she'd say “that boy ain't got a lick of sense in his head”

M – And I agree with that... well folks, that's all for now. let me remind you that you can find the transcription of this podcast on martainnocenti.com Well thanks for joining us .

C - And drive safely everyone, wherever you are, whether you're in Las Vegas at a quicky drive-through wedding chapel or just McDonald's ordering your lunch-time Big Mac !

M - Thank you for listening! See you next time!

C - Bye-bye !

*************

HIT THE ROAD : to set out on a trip, to leave

COP : a police officer, cop is a familiar term

DRIVER'S LICENSE : Official document (in a card format) you carry with you at all times, allowing you to drive legally.

VEHICLE REGISTRATION : the legal documents issued by The Department of Motor Vehicles you must have in order to drive a car in the States. Vehicle registration card lists the identification number of the vehicle as well as the insurance company name and policy number specific to that vehicle. You must have car insurance and a drivers license to drive a car on the road in The United States.

TICKET : the fee, the penalty you have to pay for a traffic violation. Example: Speeding, failing to stop for a red light or stop sign, reckless driving, etc..

BREATHALYZER : a test to check if you're driving under the influence of alcohol.

RADAR GUN : a device to check the speed of a vehicle

UNIT OF MEASURE IN THE USA : speed limit signs are MILES PER HOUR (a mile is about 1,6 km) and gasoline is measured in GALLONS (a gallon is about 3.79 liters).

a GAS GUZZLER : a vehicle that burns too much gasoline

to GUZZLE : to drink or eat fast.

to be PARCHED : to be really thirsty

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION : gears are changed automatically as the vehicle moves, freeing the driver from having to shift gears manually

CRUISE CONTROL : a system that automatically controls the speed of a vehicle

RUSH HOURS : times of heavy traffic (usually between 7-9am and 4-6pm when people are driving to work)

BELTLINE / BELTWAY : a highway that by-passes the city center

BLACK ICE : a thin layer of frozen rain/ice, very dangerous because it appears to be the same color as the road (black).

a COMMUTE : the journey from home to school or workplace

a PILE UP : a multi-car accident

RUBBERNECKING : drivers slowing down, turning to look at the accident that happened on the other side of the road

FENDER-BENDER : a minor accident, with minor damage

CLOSE CALL : when you come close to having an accident

CAR POOL LANES : lanes designated for passenger vehicles with 2 or more people.

to TAILGATE : following too close while driving, not keeping a reasonable distance between two vehicles

to SLAM ON THE BRAKES : to stop abruptly

to CUT OFF : To pull in front of a car abruptly without signaling first

to BE FRESH OUT OF something : to have just run out of something

HELMET : a form of protective gear worn on the head to protect it from injuries.

TRAFFIC COURT : a municipality's specialized judicial process for handling cases of traffic violation

M - Well, today we're going to talk about SPORTS !

M - First of all, Cindy, let me tell you one thing that I noticed about team sports in the States: there are 4 main team sports. Not one but F o u r !

C - Yes, Basketball, Baseball , Hockey and Football.

M - And when you mention Football you don't mean European Football that is soccer to Americans, do you?

C - No, soccer has grown in The States, but it still doesn't carry the fan base it holds in the rest of the world.

M - So 4 team sports that have an incredible number of fans.

C - That's possible because the championships are played throughout the year, so the sporting seasons don't overlap each other much, giving each sport its own season. For example Major League Baseball runs roughly April through October, while American Football the NFL (National Football League) is played September through January.

M - …..ending with America's biggest TV sport event.

C – Yes, the famous Super Bowl ! Everyone watches the Super Bowl game and of course the Half Time show! Friends and family gather in pubs or at home to watch. Great food is prepared. Rivalries intensify. Truthfully it's mainly about food and breaking your friend's balls on facebook. It's a lot of fun.

M – Well Maybe you should tell our listeners about the The Half Time Show …

C - It's a concert, a performance given during the break between the second and third quarter of the game. Great performances, artists like Bruce Springsteen, U2, The Rolling Stones, Michael Jackson... This year we saw The Black Eved Peas Usher and Slash from my personal favorite Guns and Roses.

The Super Bowl is always an exciting event. The TV commercials are famous too. Advertisers pay extraordinary amounts of money for Super Bowl air time. Last year 30 seconds of advertising time was expected to cost 2.6 million US dollars.

You know, we may say that in general football attracts more television viewers than baseball, although baseball attracts significantly more ticket sales due to its much longer schedule.

M – And there are also Basketball and Hockey, as well. (NHL) National Hockey League runs October though April and the NBA National Basketball Association November through April.

C - Hockey is more popular in the colder climates of the northern United States such as New England and in the Midwest. And our neighbors in Canada are crazy about Hockey! But that's a topic for another show.

M – I can tell you for sure that Hockey is very popular in Michigan, I was there a couple of years ago during the Stanley Cup finals and I was supposed to perform a live concert, because you know I'm a singer, well, that night I had to wait for the match to be over before the music could start, because everyone was glued to the TV screen!

C – Awesome!! Isn't that what sport is about? Supporting your favorite team . Going crazy when they win or lose? Wearing those T-shirts proudly, cheering on your heroes and supporting them when they're down. It's a great atmosphere. It really brings family and friends together, and it even unites countries.

M – Do you know what I like about American sports culture?

C – What's that?

M - You can turn any match into great entertainment. When I went to a Baseball game in Miami , for example, I was fascinated by the whole thing. Starting from the tailgate parties in the parking lot before the game...

C – Oh, wait a minute, Marta, let's explain tailgate parties. A tailgate party is a pic-nic, a pic-nic in the parking lot before the game.

M – And after that there was the national anthem to be sung all together, do you know that? “...the land of the free and the home of the brave!!!”

C – You're awesome.

M - And then the fireworks, the cheerleaders, there even was a concert at the end of the game...

C - I mean, you can spend a whole night partying with your friends and family. Marta, was there any baseball being played somewhere between the barbecue and the concert ?

M - Yes, and do you know where the fun began?

C – Where?

M - With the parking attendant asking me how many people usually attend the baseball game of my local team in the little town I am from in Italy.

C - A little different, uh?

M – And I answered “ 15” and he asked “thousand” ? And I said : 'No, fifteen. Period.'

C - Well, the parking attendant would have expected at least 15 hundred.

M - Yes, actually that's a good point about numbers for our listeners, watch out, you can say one thousand and five hundred or 15 hundred. That's the same. (1500)

C – Yes, so you had a great time at the game?

M - Yes, that's America, always entertaining.

C - And speaking of entertainment, how about sports and Hollywood? Can you think of any films centered around one of these sports?

M - “Space Jam” about Basketball starring Michael Jordan, or “Field of dreams” about baseball.

C – Do you remember “Jerry Maguire” with Tom Cruise and Cuba Gooding Jr ? -Show me the money!!-

M – And “Any given Sunday” or “Leatherheads” both about football.

C – Or “The Longest Yard” with Adam Sandler. Love that movie. It was a remake of a 1974 Burt Reynolds film. Oh, and “The Blind Side”.

M – “The Blind Side”, that makes me think of another aspect of American sports that I noticed.

Actually sports play a very important role in schools.

C – That's true.

M - High Schools and Colleges are equipped with fields and arenas and gymnasiums … teams and championships are nearly as important as national ones. Just think of the NCAA .

C – The National Collegiate Athletic Association. Marta, I live in The States just outside of Chapel Hill, North Carolina home of the University of North Carolina Tar Heels basketball team. And the Tar Heels feel it is their birthright to be part of the final four and go on to win the ACC tournament, the Altantic Coast Conference. College basketball is taken very seriously in North Carolina where many NBA players first started out , Michael Jordan for one. Gifted high school athletes who make an impression are sometimes sought-after at the college level and then have a good chance to continue their career in the NBA or NFL.

M – You start a rookie and you become - through hard work, study, dedication and determination - a champion. By the way Cindy, how would you explain the word “rookie” to our listeners ?

C – A rookie is a beginner, someone who is in their first year of something, not necessarily sport. You can be a rookie mum, if it's your first child and everything is new to you.

M - Or you can be a rookie English student !

C – Yes, you know what? It's amazing how sports are part of our everyday life. We use a lot of idioms derived from sports. For example, when you asked me to do this podcast about sports I thought: Marta you are really barking up the wrong tree with this one. It's a long shot, I know nothing about sports. I felt like I was behind the 8 ball. But you're calling the shots. So I thought it's time to fish or cut bait. The cards are stacked against me but I'm gonna get into full swing, keep my eye on the ball and hit a home run.

M – Wow, Cindy, slow down, you used a whole lot of idioms, I guess we need to go through them with our listeners. So, first of all you said: you are barking up the wrong tree.

C- That's a great one, isn't it? This is a hunting reference, referring to the hunter and his confused dog who has mistakenly led the sportsmen to the wrong tree. So if I go to the bakery for example and ask for a pound of sausage I'm barking up the wrong tree.

M – All right that's clear now. Then you said : It's a long shot. What does that mean?

C - If you bet on a horse that is unlikely to win, that's a long shot. It's doubtful that you will win the bet. If you apply for a job that you're seriously underqualified for, that's a long shot.

M – Ok. How about : To be behind the 8 ball ?

C – It means to feel under pressure. It's a reference to shooting pool, billiards. For example, at school, if you have a lot of exams coming up, you feel under pressure and behind the 8 ball.

M – All right. Then you said: you're calling the shots.

C - That means : You're the boss.

M - Oh, thank you!

C - You're the referee of the game. When I was a kid, my father called the shots in my family, he was the boss.

M - Clear. Now that one was interesting: It's time to fish or cut bait.

C - I love this! This is a reference to fishing, it means to get serious, stop wasting time, do the job or go home, just like a fisherman who has spent his day waiting for a fish to bite. He must make the decision to continue on fishing or cut his line and go home. An example could be a boy who really likes a girl but he's afraid to ask her out on a date. There would be a time where he has to fish or cut bait. Ask her out or give up the dream.

M - What about : The cards are stacked against me but I'm gonna get into full swing.

C - It's like the odds are not in your favour but you're gonna go for it and make the best of it. Get into full swing, means to give it your all and be enthusiastic. It can also be used for parties: the party was in full swing and everyone was having a great time!

M – Then we had: Keep my eye on the ball and hit a home run.

C.- Both baseball references : keep your eye on the ball means stay focused and hit a home run means to succeed.

M – Ok. Well, now you'd better repeat it all for our listeners, now they can understand you.

C – I said : when you asked me to do this podcast about sports I thought: Marta you are really barking up the wrong tree with this one. It's a long shot, I know nothing about sports. I felt like I was behind the 8 ball. But you're calling the shots. So I thought it's time to fish or cut bait. The cards are stacked against me but I'm gonna get into full swing, keep my eye on the ball and hit a home run.

M – All right, Cindy, now let's stay focused on sports idioms and keep the ball rolling, that means keep the conversation moving. I have a few idioms that refer to the boxing world.

C – Oh great, we haven't talked about boxing yet.

M – To hit below the belt, that is an illegal move, so it means to act unfairly.

C – Arguments for example may become heated and angry words are hurled at each other, you may say something really hurtful, that's hitting below the belt.

M – Another one: Saved by the bell, the end of the round saves the boxer from defeat, so it means to be saved from a situation that you don't like because you run out of time.

C – At school, if the bell rings and the class is over before it's your turn to speak, you're saved by the bell.

M – And : Knockout. If I say “she's a knockout” that's a hell of a compliment, isn't it?

C - You're a knockout, Marta.

M – Thank you, you too!

C – It means she's stunningly attractive, she knocks men out with her beauty, she makes them weak in the knees.

M – What else? Throw in the towel, that signals the end of the match, so you admit defeat, you surrender.

C – This podcast is getting more and more difficult for our listeners to understand, let's hope that they don't throw in the towel and give up on us.

M - No, guys, hang in there, we're almost finished here anyway. But as a very famous baseball player once said “it ain't over till it's over”

C – oh, Yogi Berra wasn't it? He's almost more famous for his Yogiisms than he was for his amazing baseball career.

M - “...and baby it ain't over till it's over”

C – Lenny Kravitz, right? Fantastic!

M – All right. Before we go, let me remind you that you can find the transcription of this podcast including all these sport idioms on martainnocenti.com

Well thanks for joining us everyone, and remember to keep your eye on the ball, and your ball is -of course- your English lessons.

C - Are we finished ?

M - I guess so.

C - Oh, saved by the bell.

M – Cindy, are you throwing in the towel ?

C- no, I think we did a great job and kept the ball rolling and for two rookies I think it was a knockout performance!

M – It was.

C - Thanks everyone, bye bye!....

M – Bye-bye! See you next time!

*******

to BE GLUED TO THE TV SCREEN : to be stuck on a TV program

TAILGATE PARTY : a picnic in the parking lot before the game is played.

NATIONAL ANTHEM : the official national song of a country

1500 : 15 HUNDRED or 1 thousand 5 hundred.

ROOKIE : a beginner

IDIOMS DERIVED FROM SPORTS mentioned in this episode :

- you are barking up the wrong tree

- it's a long shot

- to be behind the 8 ball

- you are calling the shots

- it's time to fish or cut bait

- I'm gonna get into full swing

- keep my eye on the ball

- hit a home run

- keep the ball rolling

- to hit below the belt

- saved by the bell

- to be a knockout

- throw in the towel

M - So, today we're gonna talk about SHOPPING !

C - Oh, well, Americans love shopping.

M- They do.

C - We have a lot of MEGASTORES.

M -Such as ?

C - For example Wal-Mart, “monster” Wal-Mart, Best Buy for all your electronics needs, Target which is similar to Wal-Mart (Americans love convenience, they like to have everything at their fingertips) And many are open until 9 p.m. every night, seven days a week. Or some are even open 24/7.

M - What do you mean by 24/7 ?

C - By 24/7 I mean : 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

M - Yeah, you're right. When I went to America I was surprised by that, it seems strange to me, I mean I could buy anything I needed in the middle of the night, at least in big cities.

C - In big cities, usually.

M - It is also easy to find whatever you need while driving across the country.

C - Driving across country is really convenient, as I've done myself and I know you've done yourself a couple of times, exploring United States. It's very convenient because on the main highways you'll find SIGNS listing LODGING, GAS and FOOD just before each exit ramp.

M - That's really helpful.

C - Isn't it? When you're tired and you've been driving all day and you just want to stop, you just wait for that sign listing those hotels and find one you like and pull over, very close to the highway you'll find a room.

M - Just as simple as that.

C - Exactly.

M- Cindy, is there anything that a foreign tourist should know about prices in the USA?

C- Something unexpected for foreigners coming to visit us is that the price you see on the item is not exactly what you will pay. You will pay a certain percentage of SALES TAX on top of that and it varies from State to State. For example in New York City (a lot of people travel to New York City on vacation) New York has a 4% sales tax on each dollar, so if you were to buy an item for a dollar there'd be an extra 4 cents tacked on to it. And it varies from State to State, so you may wanna check that before you go on your trip. For example, California has 8.25% sales tax, Florida is 6%, and where I live in North Carolina is 5.75%. So that could really add up with your larger purchases.

M - Yeah, I mean, if you buy something expensive it makes a difference.

C - A huge difference, so you wanna be prepared for that.

M - Anything else that is unexpected to us?

C - Tipping. Let's talk about TIPPING. Was that a surprise to you the first time you came to the States?

M - The first time, yes. So, actually you give a TIP …

C - ...in addition to your bill, it's usually 15%, and it's given to the waiter or your waitress in appreciation for good service.

M - So it's extra-money that you give...

C - It's extra-money on top of the bill.

M - Don't waiters get a salary?

C - They get a reduced salary, actually.

M - So tips are really important.

C - Tips are really important and there's a great incentive in the States to provide good service to the customers, to make your dining experience pleasurable.

M – Yeah, right. Is there any place except from restaurants where tipping is customary?

C - Tipping is customary in many places, it's not mandatory but it's polite and it's to show your appreciation of a job well done. For example, a valet that would park your car for you, the porter at the airport, shuttle drivers that would take you maybe to your hotel once you've left the airport, again, customary to tip a few dollars.

M - All right, so watch out, it could be expensive, more than what you expect!

C - That's it, start carrying your own bags !

M - Well, actually we're talking about shopping but we are in the middle of an economic crisis, so how is retail responding to that ?

C - There are markdowns on everything now. Markdowns meaning the price has been marked down, reduced.

M - Reduced, so it's lower.

C - The price is lower. There's a lot of “buy one, get one for free” incentives.

M - Yeah, I like that.

C - Or “Buy one and get one half off” which is my favorite way to buy shoes.

M - And how about the restaurants?

C - Restaurants also took quite a hit, many restaurants have gone under, and by gone under I mean they've gone out of business, they've closed. A lot of restaurants, what they've offered is a reduced price menu, a budget price menu, you may not get the large portions that you are accustomed to in America, but you'll get a little less food but at a very reasonable price.

M - So people have to reduce their spending but they are still dreaming of Tiffany's, Rodeo Drive, 5th Avenue and...that kind of stuff ?

C - Oh, aren't we all ? Marta, do you remember Pretty Woman's scene on Rodeo Drive ?

M - Of course I do!

C - That scene turned me into a 'shopaholic' , that very same day I ran out with my brand new credit card and bought those thigh high black leather boots.

M - Really?! Could you walk on that?!

C - No!

M - So you just wanted to buy them...

C - I wanted to be Pretty Woman.

M - I see, I see. How about all those TV shows and movies like Sex and the City and I Love Shopping ?

C - That's Hollywood effect on us. It turns us all into 'shopaholics'.

M - It's unbelievable. Well, I think now it's time for quotes about shopping.

All right, Cindy, I know you have a great sentence by Dolly Parton.

C - Oh, my favorite, I love Dolly Parton. Dolly Parton said : “You'd be surprised how much it costs to look this cheap.”

M - I'd be surprised, I guess. I got another interesting sentence, it's by Benjamin Franklin and here it goes : “Beware of little expenses, a small leak will sink a great ship”. That's it!

C - And Adrienne Gusoff : “Shopping is better than sex. If you're not satisfied after shopping you can make an exchange for something you really like.”

M - And Will Rogers: “Too many people spend money they haven't earned, to buy things they don't want, to impress people they don't like.”

C - Oh, how much happier would we be if we listened to all those words?

M - You're right.

M - As far as shopping is concerned Teenagers are professionals. So I guess we should get in contact with a friend of ours, Ashley. I'll try and give her a ring. Here she comes...here she is.. Hey, Ashley, how are you doing?

A - Hi Marta! How are you honey?

M - I'm fine, where are you? Oh, I'm sorry, can you introduce yourself to our listeners?

A - Hi everyone, I'm Ashley, with a Y, 'cause I like lil’ smiley faces with my Y’s.

M - So...you draw smiley faces when you write your name..?

A - It's really cool. I'll show you next time I see you, ok?

M - I can't wait. So, where are you?

A - We're at the mall, Kelly and I are at the mall, we're getting mani's and pedi's , it's so cute, Marta, I got French tips on my toes, and we're gonna go out and buy toe rings. We're just hanging out at the mall, we're just chilling because I can't spend any more money, Marta, I maxed out my credit card.

M - You maxed out your credit card.

A - My Dad won't let me shop any more, so we're getting mani's and pedi's as I told you, and then we're gonna go and get Smoothies, and then....oh, my God, oh Marta! I bought the coolest eye-shadow, it was a steal, it's silver and it's all sparkly.

M - It was a steal, oh my God, Ashley, are you crazy? Do you mean you stole it?

A - Marta, I didn't steal it, no, I mean I got it on sale.

M - You meant it was not expensive, so it was a steal. (oh, teenagers!)

A - I got it for , like, nothing, ok well I got it for like 6.99 $, but it was originally 12.99$ then it was marked down, and I had a coupon, and I got it for like 6.99$ it was a steal. it's so pretty, I'll show you next time I see you.

M - All right so I really gotta go now.

A - Oh, you have to go? No, Marta, wait a minute, I have to tell you something. Debbie is here.

M - Debbie who?

A - Debbie, I told you about her, that b**ch.

M - Who? Oh, that 'bitch'!

A - She's the one who stole Kelly's boyfriend, I told you about her last week. She bought the dress that Kelly wanted, she's such a bitch!

M - I guess she is. So, girls, what are you gonna do now?

A - We have to go window shopping. 'cause I can't spend any more money, my credit card's maxed out, so we're just looking, we're just window shopping.

M - I see, so don't spend too much of your father's money.

A - I won't

M - Behave!

A - I will.

M - Have fun, girls!

A - Ok, will you go shopping next week ...with me?

M - Yes, of course...

A - I wanna show you where I got that eye-shadow!

M - Of course... Bye honey!

A - Bye Marta!

M - Ooh! Wow, I made it! Sometimes teenagers are so difficult to deal with! Ooh! Cindy....

C - Sweet girl, though.

M - She's sweet, kind of sweet.

A - Kind of on her own planet, but she's a nice girl.

M - Yeah, and she's crazy about shopping too, it seems like... women just can't help but go shopping, no matter the age.

C - It's true.

M - Women can't help but go shopping, that's an interesting expression.

C - Yeah, we don't mean help as in...

M - ...to assist, giving assistance...

C - “I can't help it”, it means it's stronger than me.

M - I can't resist, I can't avoid it. I really need to go shopping.

C - I need to go shopping especially after watching (the film) Pretty Woman.

M - And when is the best period of the year to go shopping ?

C - Oh, well after Christmas sales, fantastic, because everyone wants to get rid of their stock, there are markdowns everywhere.

M - So in that period of the year you can't help but …

C - ...take advantage of the sales! And in between the seasons, as well.

M - Well, I guess, that's it. We have already taken up enough of our listeners' time, so, guys, I can't help but say goodbye here.

C - And stay off the roads because I think Ashley just got her driver's license.

M - She's dangerous, watch out!

That's all, folks! You can find the trascription of this podcast on martainnocenti.com

Thank you again for listening but now we really have to go, we have to go shopping! Bye!

C - Thanks everyone, bye bye!

M - See you next time!

****

24/7 : 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

TIP : extra-money (approximately %15 of total bill) given on top of the bill in appreciation for good service

MARKDOWNS : to mark down a price means to reduce a price

to GO OUT OF BUSINESS / to GO UNDER : to close a business, cease to exist

a SHOPAHOLIC : a person addicted to shopping

I MAXED OUT MY CREDIT CARD : I can't charge any more purchases on my credit card because I have reached my charge limit.

IT WAS A STEAL : Not actually stealing. A way to say something wasn't expensive at all, I got it on sale.

to GO WINDOW SHOPPING : hanging out and watching the windows without buying anything.

I CAN'T HELP IT / I CAN'T HELP BUT GO SHOPPING / I CAN'T HELP BUT ... : I can't resist, I can't avoid it, it's stronger than me.