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Congressional Testimony
Food and Nutrition Service
Statement of Eric M. Bost, Under Secretary
Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services
Before the Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development,
Food and Drug Administration and Related Agencies
March 24, 2004
Food and Nutrition Service
Statement of Eric M. Bost, Under Secretary
Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services
Before the Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development,
Food and Drug Administration and Related Agencies
March 24, 2004
Thank you Mr. Chairman and members of the subcommittee for this opportunity to present the Administration's budget request for fiscal year 2005 for the Food, Nutrition and Consumer Services (FNCS).
But first, with your permission, I would like to introduce the members of my FNCS leadership team joining me at the table this morning. I am pleased to introduce to you the newest member of the FNCS team, Deputy Under Secretary Kate Coler. Ms. Coler previously served with distinction as Food and Nutrition Service's (FNS) Deputy Administrator for the Food Stamp Program, and is appearing before the Subcommittee for the first time. Also accompanying me are Roberto Salazar, FNS Administrator of the Food and Nutrition Service, and Dr. Eric Hentges, Executive Director of the Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion (CNPP).
During the past three years as Under Secretary for the Food, Nutrition and Consumer Services, I have focused my attention and my energy on three central challenges facing the Federal nutrition assistance programs: expanding access to the programs so that all eligible persons can make informed decisions about whether to participate; addressing the epidemic of obesity that threatens the health of individual Americans, and our economy and health care system collectively; and improving the integrity with which our programs are administered, at all levels, so that we are the best possible stewards of the public resources with which we are entrusted.
Let me first review briefly some key accomplishments achieved over the last three years:
We are reaching substantially more participants in each of our major programs: 5.8 million more people in food stamps, 1.6 million more children receiving a free or reduced price school lunch, over 1.4 million more in school breakfast, and over 400,000 more women, infants and children each month in WIC since January 2001.
We successfully implemented the provisions of the 2002 Farm Bill that met the Administration's goals of simplifying policies, improving access, and ensuring program integrity, including the important steps of restoring benefits to legal immigrants and increasing flexibility for the States.
We expanded electronic benefits transfer (EBT) to all 50 States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands; EBT now delivers over 95 percent of all food stamp benefits.
We have seen food stamp payment errors fall for the fourth year in a row, reaching the lowest level ever – 8.26 percent – in 2002.
We have reduced food stamp trafficking to less than 2.5 cents of each benefit dollar issued, down by one-third since 1996-98.
We have made healthy lifestyles a top priority through the President's HealthierUS initiative. We are working with public and private partners, such as the National 5 to 9 a Day Partnership, to increase fruit and vegetable consumption and have developed a soon to be released kit for schools entitled "Fruits and Vegetables Galore: Helping Kids Eat More." , We are also expanding school-based efforts to promote healthy eating, and to foster a healthy school nutrition environment. through technical assistance, training and nutrition education materials that help schools assess and improve the school nutrition environment, including improvements in school meals and overall food policies.
We have focused on promoting healthy weight for children and adults across programs through the Eat Smart. Play Hard.™ campaign, and within programs through Team Nutrition, the Fit WIC obesity prevention projects, and efforts to improve Food Stamp Program nutrition education.
We are working in concert with the Department of Health and Human Services to update the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, and we are revising the Food Guide Pyramid to ensure that each reflects the most comprehensive, up-to-date science available in order to provide clear and useful nutrition information to American consumers.
We achieved a clean financial statement for FNS for the fifth consecutive year, in support of the President's management agenda initiative to improve financial management across government.
I am proud of these accomplishments, and the hard work that they represent from USDA staff, from the Congress, and from our State and local program partners. But much important work remains to be done. I'd like now to review the budget request and the improvements in performance and results that it is designed to support.
The President's budget for fiscal year 2005 requests $50.1 billion dollars in budget authority to continue this critical work. This record request reflects the Administration's long-standing commitment to protect our children and low-income households from hunger and the health risks associated with poor nutrition and physical inactivity through the Nation's nutrition safety net. The purposes to which we will put this substantial public commitment are clear: first, we seek to improve the public's awareness of our programs and ease of access for all eligible persons, and second, through both the Federal nutrition assistance programs and the Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion (CNPP), we will continue to do our part to address the growing public health threat that overweight and obesity poses to all Americans. Finally, we will strive to enhance the efficiency and accuracy with which these programs are delivered.
Ensuring Program Access
This Administration has demonstrated a long-term commitment to the Federal nutrition assistance programs and to the Americans whom they assist. The most fundamental expression of this commitment is making certain that sufficient resources are provided for these programs so that all who are eligible and in need have ready access to these critical benefits. We have delivered to you a budget that funds anticipated levels of program participation, while acknowledging the inherent difficulties in making such projections.
For the Food Stamp Program, the budget continues the $3 billion contingency reserve appropriated in fiscal year 2004 but also offers, as an alternative, a proposal for indefinite budget authority for program benefits. This authority would be an efficient way to ensure that benefits are funded even as economic circumstances change, a goal we all share. In WIC, the $125 million contingency reserve appropriated in fiscal year 2003 continues to be available to the program should participation or food costs exceed the levels anticipated in the budget. Should this not be sufficient, we are committed to working with you to ensure that WIC is properly funded.
Adequate program funding, however, is not enough to ensure access to program services for those who need them. Program structure and delivery methods must be designed so as not to create the types of barriers to program participation that can result in their underutilization. As we move forward with the reauthorization of the Child Nutrition and WIC Programs, improving program delivery and ensuring the access of eligible people who wish to participate will remain fundamental principles.
Addressing Overweight and Obesity
Poor dietary choices and sedentary lifestyles are having a serious impact on the health and well being of all Americans. Obesity and overweight are widely recognized as a public health crisis. The costs of these conditions are enormous -- reduced productivity and increased health care costs estimated at over $123 billion, and, most sadly, unnecessarily premature deaths for over 300,000 Americans annually. The Federal nutrition assistance programs can play a critical role in combating this epidemic by promoting better diets through nutrition education and promotion. These program services, along with the work of the Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion, are an integral part of the President's HealthierUS initiative, and the budget reflects our continuing commitment to this effort. It includes $5 million for ongoing demonstration projects to explore new ways for the WIC program to reduce and prevent unhealthy weight among our children. We are also seeking $2.5 million to expand our very successful Eat Smart Play Hard. campaign, and to develop an integrated, family-oriented approach to nutrition education that cuts across all of the Federal nutrition programs and complements efforts in schools and other program settings to encourage healthy eating and physical activity.
Our request also supports FNCS' CNPP, which works with the Department of Health and Human Services and other agencies to promote good nutrition across all segments of the population. The budget includes resources that are critical to the development and promotion for the updated 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans and the concurrently revised food guide system , providing essential tools to communicate the Guidelines in ways that motivate Americans to improve their eating and physical activity behaviors. The requested funding for CNPP will enable us to capitalize on the investments we have already made with a new opportunity to build upon public awareness of basic nutrition messages with an enhanced food guide system that will target individual needs.
Enhancing Program Integrity and Delivery
With this budget request, we are asking the Nation to entrust us with over $50 billion of public resources. We are keenly aware of the immense responsibility this represents. To maintain the public trust, we must demonstrate our ongoing commitment to be good stewards of the resources we manage, as an essential part of our mission to help the vulnerable people these programs are intended to serve.
This is not a new commitment. As I noted earlier, in fiscal year 2002, the most recent year for which data is available, the Food Stamp Program achieved a record high payment accuracy rate of 91.74 percent. We have also been working to develop strategies to improve the accuracy of eligibility determinations in our school meals programs – an issue of mutual concern to all those that care about these programs. The budget features dollar and staff year resources which will allow us to continue to work closely with our State and local partners on both of these essential integrity initiatives – continuing both our successes in the Food Stamp Program and our intensified efforts in school meals.
In the WIC program, we are requesting $20 million to continue our initiative to assist States with the modernization of their information technology infrastructure. These systems are essential underpinnings for the improvements in program management, program integrity, and, most importantly, program delivery that need to be achieved. The Administration has worked closely with the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and the WIC community to fashion a procurement strategy that will ultimately produce a series of core model WIC systems. States updating their WIC systems will be able to select from among these model core systems as starting points for their own implementation, thus reducing their costs.
In the remainder of my remarks, I'd like to touch on several key issues:
Food Stamp Program
The President's budget anticipates serving a monthly average of 24.9 million persons in fiscal year 2005, an increase of 1.2 million over our projections of the current fiscal year. Our $33.6 billion request supports this level of service. In addition, the budget continues the $3 billion contingency reserve appropriated in fiscal year 2004. While the President's budget anticipates continuing improvement in the Nation's economy, Food Stamp Program participation traditionally continues to rise for some time after the aggregate employment begins to improve. Moreover, we have made a concerted effort over the last three years to raise awareness of the benefits of program participation and encourage those who are eligible, especially working families, senior citizens, and legal immigrants, to apply. The rate of participation among those eligible to participate increased two years in a row, after five years of declines, reaching 62 percent in September 2001. However, many eligibles remain who could be participating but are not. We have been aggressive in promoting the message that the Food Stamp Program Makes America Stronger in the sense that the program puts healthy food on the tables of low-income families and has a positive impact on local economies. We have just recently embarked on a media campaign to carry this message and to reach those who are eligible but not participating. We have also paid particular attention to those legal immigrants who have had their eligibility restored by the Farm Bill by carrying messages on Hispanic radio stations across the country.
These factors make this a particularly challenging period to forecast program participation and costs. To ensure the adequacy of resources available to the program, and as an alternative to the traditional contingency reserve, we have proposed indefinite authority for program benefits and payments to States and other non-Federal entities.
Child Nutrition Programs
The President's budget requests $11.4 billion to support the service of appealing, nutritious meals to children in public and private schools and child care facilities through the Child Nutrition Programs in fiscal year 2005. In the National School Lunch Program, we anticipate serving over 29 million children per day in fiscal year 2005. Similarly, the School Breakfast Program will serve approximately 9 million children each school day. The request for budget authority is a slight decrease from levels appropriated in fiscal year 2004. This is because the rate of program growth in fiscal year 2004, to date, has been slightly less than anticipated. As a result, the anticipated carry-over resources, in conjunction with the budget request, will fully fund the projected level of program activity.
Several components of the Child Nutrition Programs expire at the end of March. We urge the Congress to move quickly to extend these provisions before they expire to ensure that all aspects of the Child Nutrition Programs continue to operate without interruption. We also want to work with the Congress to reauthorize and improve the entire range of Child Nutrition programs, consistent with the principles outlined last year. These principles include ensuring that all eligible children have access to program benefits as well as streamlining the administration of programs to minimize burdens, supporting healthy school environments and strengthening program integrity.
Reauthorization provides an opportunity to address our continuing concern that the certifications of children to receive free and reduced price meals are not performed as accurately as they reasonably could be. Correct certifications are a priority to ensure that school meal funds go to those most in need, and the many other Federal, State, and local resources that use this same data are properly targeted as well.
In sum, we are committed to working with Congress to reauthorize the Child Nutrition Programs and to reinvesting any savings achieved in the process back into these important programs for program improvements.
In fiscal year 2005, the President's budget request of $4.79 billion anticipates providing essential support to a monthly average of 7.86 million women, infants and children through the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC). This is an increase of 60,000 participants per month from anticipated fiscal year 2004 participation levels. Additionally, the $125 million contingency reserve, appropriated in fiscal year 2003, remains available to the program should participation or food costs exceed our projections. The Administration remains steadfast in its support of WIC and is committed to working with Congress to ensure its proper funding. Finally, the request includes $20 million to continue our peer counseling initiative that is designed to enhance both rates of initiation and duration of breastfeeding among WIC participants.
The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP)
Through TEFAP, USDA plays a critical supporting role for the Nation's food banks. This support takes the form of both commodities for distribution and administrative funding for States' commodity storage and distribution costs. Much of this funding flows from the States to the faith-based organizations that are a cornerstone of the food bank community. The President's budget requests the fully authorized level of $140 million to support the purchase of commodities for TEFAP. Additional food resources become available through the donation of surplus commodities from USDA's market support activities. In recent years, these donations have increased the total Federal commodity support provided to the Nation's food banks by almost 300 percent. State administrative costs, a critical form of support to the food bank community, are funded at $50 million in the President's request.
Nutrition Programs Administration
We are requesting $152 million in our Nutrition Programs Administration account, which reflects an increase of $14.7 million in our administrative funding. This increase supports the Child Nutrition and Food Stamp Programs integrity activities mentioned earlier, as well as a number of nutrition guidance initiatives under the Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion. These resources are absolutely critical to our ability to successfully execute the mission of the Food, Nutrition and Consumers Services. Our total request for Federal administrative resources, including those activities funded directly from the program accounts, represents only about 0.39 percent of the program resources for which we have stewardship. I believe that we need this modest increase in funding in order to maintain accountability for our $50 billion portfolio and to assist our State and local partners in effectively managing the programs.
Mr. Chairman, I appreciate the opportunity to share my thoughts with you, and would be happy to answer any questions you may have.
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A Rancho Palos Verdes resident who spent decades pouring over details in collections of work by Claude Monet will again showcase his own replicas of some of the artist's most famous paintings in a local show that kicks off Saturday.
Laszlo Gyermek will display more than 30 re-creations with an emphasis on series paintings by the "Father of Impressionism" at Malaga Cove Library in Palos Verdes Estates.
Gyermek has worked on hundreds of oil painting replicas during the last four decades with a focus on Impressionist art. Last January, of Monet's Cathedral at Rouen series after studying the work in art museums around the world.
He began work on the Rouen series in 1978 and spent nearly 2,000 hours on the paintings, finishing just before his show in January 2011. Born in Hungary, Gyermek is a retired anesthesiologist and medical researcher.
"The only pressure is, I wanted to be as good as possible, as close to a masterpiece as possible," he said of his Rouen series re-creations in a previous interview.
Attend the show: The exhibit's opening reception will be from 2-4 p.m. Saturday at Malaga Cove Library, 2400 Via Campesina in Palos Verdes Estates. The exhibit will continue during library hours 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Jan. 27. Gyermek will be at the show between 2 and 3:30 p.m. Jan. 14 and 21.

subset: commoncrawl


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No matter how you rotate a circle, it's width will always stay the same. So far, so obvious. But if you thought this property was unique to circles, then these shapes of constant width will blow your mind. Check out the video to see them in action.
You can buy them with or without a pair of wooden rulers like in the video.
You'll also get a handy information sheet that tells you all about these unusual shapes.
They're also available in acrylic.


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You've been telling us you'd like to see more Grosse Ile faces and issues in Patch—and we've heard you. Very soon, we'll be adding on to Trenton Patch to include Grosse Ile.
Many Grosse Ile residents shop, work or go to school in Trenton. Many Trenton residents go to Grosse Ile for a number of reasons including shopping, dining and recreation. Bringing news and information of both communities is the right thing to do.
Here are some of the exciting benefits this will bring to both communities:
- All of the businesses will be part of our extensive community directory, called Patch Places. Business owners will be invited to claim their listing as soon as the site expansion takes place. And readers will have a resource for finding every business in Trenton and Grosse Ile.
- We've been covering Grosse Ile related news since day one of Trenton Patch including and to name a few. The expansion will increase the frequecy and depth of our coverage on Downriver's favorite island.
- The close proximity of the two communities makes our Announcements page, Events Calendar and Neighborhood Gallery the perfect place to share past, present and future events with neighbors on either side of the Detroit River.
- We'll bring you regular coverage of the issues and events close to home. We've already been doing that with Trenton and will start covering Grosse Ile with the same pride and tenecity.
So often we've found that community stories in one town are of interest to residents of the other, so it seems easier to have it in one place—right here on what will soon be called Trenton-Grosse Ile Patch.
This is meant to help us provide better coverage of the things that matter to residents of both communities - which is always something we're striving to do! But as always, if you think we're missing anything, let us know.
If you are one of our Grosse Ile readers already, please help us spread the word! Likewise, if you have any news tips, please send them to Local Editor Nate Stemen.
Help spread the word and like Trenton Patch on Facebook, or follow us on Twitter. If you haven't already, sign up for the newsletter so you don't miss out.


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Small retailers say no thanks' to plastic feesBy JOYCE M. ROSENBERG
The Associated Press | February 04,2013Gretel-Ann Fischer already told customers that she wont accept credit cards for purchases under $5 at her Vermont bakery. The last thing she wants to do is anger them by passing along the transaction fee she has to pay each time they use plastic.
Fischer, who owns Cupps Cafe and Bakery in Winooski, is one of thousands of retailers in 40 states who now have the right to charge customers the fees that come along with using credit cards.
They won that right as part of a settlement of a class action lawsuit brought by merchants against the credit card companies Visa and MasterCard and major banks that issue credit cards. But many small retailers say that customers will bolt if they tack on a surcharge that could range from 1.5 percent and 4 percent of purchases made with plastic.
Its just not going to happen. Its hard enough to get them to accept the $5 minimum, says Fischer.
She imposed the minimum because of a 17-cent per transaction fee thats in addition to the 2.5 percent that Visa and MasterCard charge for the entire purchase. Seventeen cents on a $2 cup of coffee was too much for the bakery to absorb.
Credit card transaction fees cost the bakery $10,000 a year, a big bite for a company with annual revenue of about $400,000. But Fischer and her husband, Brian, say passing the fees along just isnt an option.
I think youd alienate a bunch of customers, says Brian Fischer.
The surcharges are the result of a settlement last July of a long-running federal antitrust lawsuit brought by nine retailers against Visa, MasterCard and major banks. Before the agreement, the credit card companies prohibited retailers and other businesses that accept credit cards from charging customers for the right to use plastic. The settlement gave merchants the right to pass along the fees as of Jan. 27.
The plaintiffs in the lawsuit ranged from Leons Transmission, a California auto repair company with seven locations, to Payless ShoeSource, which has thousands of shoe stores across the country. They charged that Visa, MasterCard and the banks conspired to fix the fees on credit card transactions. Other big merchants including grocer Kroger, and drugstore chain Walgreen, had also filed suits.
The surcharges cant be slipped in without telling customers. The agreement requires retailers to notify customers before and after a purchase.
That means visible signs at a store entrance and its cash registers. And the sales receipt has to list the surcharge separately. Websites must notify customers that theyre about to pay more for something they buy online.
But the number of retailers that pass along the transaction fee is likely to be relatively small. Big retailers like Wal-Mart and Target have already said they wont do it. And the practice is illegal in 10 states: California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Kansas, Maine, Massachusetts, New York, Oklahoma and Texas.
Theres another reason why few retailers are likely to pass along the fees. American Express requires merchants who accept its cards to pass on any surcharges to all cards they accept for payment including debit cards, and electronic payment services such as PayPal and Google Wallet.
But the settlement doesnt allow the fees to be tacked onto purchases made with debit cards. American Express doesnt require the same treatment for purchases made through a pre-arranged payment from a bank account or cash or check.
The lawsuits intent was to lower the transaction fees that merchants pay, says Mallory Duncan, a senior vice president at the National Retail Federation, a trade group that is opposed to the settlement.
In the end, the terms of the settlement created a dilemma. Many retailers could go ahead and pass on the fees to shoppers. But by doing so they risk angering customers.
Thats exactly opposite where we want to be, Duncan says.
Retailer Angela Gianfrancesco says shell lose customers if she makes them pay a transaction fee.
Customers are definitely going to tailor their spending to places that dont pass along the charge, says Gianfrancesco, owner of Stella Blue Design, a jewelry store in Chicago. Their repeat business and loyalty are more lucrative than what I would make passing that along.
A big reason why she cant pass on the charges is the sales tax in Chicago 9.25 percent. Add on another 2.5 percent for a credit card fee, and customers would be paying nearly 12 percent above the ticket price. And Gianfrancescos customers tend to spend more than $100 each time they buy from her.
In many cases, shoppers are already paying for the transaction fees theyre tucked in the overhead that retailers have to pay, along with rent, salaries, cost of merchandise, etc. So retailers can nudge their overall prices higher rather than overtly passing along transaction fees.
Another reason many shops will avoid passing on the fees they dont want to give customers a reason to check out their rivals.
You dont want to give somebody else a competitive advantage, says Michael Sansolo, a retailing consultant in Washington, D.C. He predicts most retailers will do nothing
Asking customers to use cash is another possibility. Gianfrancesco says she deducts 2.5 percent if a customer decides not to use plastic.
But that wont work in a bakery where people on the go want to buy a muffin and coffee with a swipe. Many dont carry cash, says Cupps Brian Fischer.
The convenience of the credit card is too great to alienate all the customers.MORE IN National / World BusinessBRATTLEBORO In the Green Mountain State, Vermonters love for the outdoors and passion for... Full StoryRutland-area businesses may be visited over the next few weeks by representatives from Efficiency... Full StoryMiddlebury company relcoates after fire. Full Story
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Robert Helbling "Bob" Sandy, 84, Apple River, Ill., passed away Thursday, July 18, 2013, at the Elizabeth Nursing Home.
A committal service will be at 3 p.m. Saturday at the Oakwood Cemetery Chapel, Warsaw, and military honors will be presented by the American Legion Post 49 of Warsaw. Burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery. Cremation rites have been accorded.
The Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena, Ill., is assisting the family.
He was born Feb. 26, 1929, in Kokomo, the son of Paul James and Bessie Mariann (Helbling) Sandy. He served in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict from Jan. 5, 1951, until his honorable discharge as a sergeant on Oct. 5, 1952. He was united in marriage to Jean Eash on Aug. 29, 1953. Bob graduated from Kokomo High School and went to International Business College in Fort Wayne. He spent his life in banking for 35 years at Lincoln National Bank, Fort Wayne, and later at Lake City Bank, Warsaw, until his retirement. He was a member of the Optimist Club in Warsaw for 30 years, served on the Warsaw Cemetery Board for 20 years and attended the Galena United Methodist Church. He was involved in playing basketball and volleyball throughout his life, and Bob especially loved to golf.
He is survived by his wife; three children, Jeffrey Mark (Amy) Sandy, Chattanooga, Tenn., Roberta Jeanne (Dennis) Shadle, Woodburn, and Jennifer Lynne (Gregory) Vandigo, Apple River, Ill.; two grandchildren, Benjamin James and Josephine Abigail Vandigo; two brothers, Paul J. (Wanda) Sandy, Kokomo, and Don Glen Sandy, Madiera Island, Portugal.
He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister, Betty Catron, and a stepbrother, Lewis Wilson. The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the staff at the Elizabeth Nursing Home for their care and compassion and the Furlong Funeral Home. Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com.


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It's been four days, more than 100 hours, and I still haven't finished Season 2 of "House of Cards."
I've gotten past the big Episode 1 spoiler. And I've made it through a few more predictably "shocking" chapters. But I haven't finished. And it's not because I think binge-watching is bad - I don't buy any of those arguments. I've binged on many shows in the past year alone. "Six Feet Under" I completed in a month this summer. I devoured all three seasons of "Borgen" in the final weeks of 2013, and I relished every minute. I started watching TV in earnest in college, so if a show ran before 2006, chances are I binged on it while putting off a paper on Kant or possibly an assignment for Slate. "Veronica Mars"? Binged that during finals freshman year. then again in anticipation of the movie.
But Netflix has tarnished binge-watching's good name.
Much has been written about the joys of binge-watching. Slate's TV critic, Willa Paskin, described it as "the classy way of watching too much TV, the rebranding of a previously disdained activity that makes the sedentary life palatable to those people - say New York Review of Books readers! - who would once have foresworn it." Less than 24 hours before Season 2 of "House of Cards," Alex Soojung-Kim Pang wrote in Slate in praise of the practice, calling it "restorative," and highlighting how "it's a way [for people] to reclaim their time and attention in a rushing, distracting world." He goes on to explain that for many, it's a reward.
Binging on "Six Feet Under," "Borgen," "Veronica Mars" - those shows felt like rewards, little presents I got to open whenever I felt like it. They offered a way to relax, and yes, reclaim my time. After all, I was on my own time. I'm sure others were binging on "Borgen" at the same moment, but we were not trying to keep pace with each other - no one was dictating a time period for us to finish so we could then chat about it. The show had run its course, and people who came well before us wrote the think pieces that we could now happily devour. There was no race to finish because no one cared when we finished. No one cared when we started.
And then there's "House of Cards." In many ways I can't stop watching "House of Cards." But binge-watching "House of Cards" the weekend it comes out does not feel like a relaxing reward. It has nothing to do with reclaiming time and everything to do with time being dictated to you.
Sure, in theory, you can watch whenever you want. But if you're on Twitter, you're surrounded by people tweeting spoilers and bragging about finishing. Magazines and blogs publish pieces that will only make sense if you've "caught up." What was once the most enjoyable way to consume seasons of TV becomes a social obligation.
No one has explored this as well as "Portlandia" (also streaming on Netflix, if you want to binge). Think of the sketch in which a man and woman start watching "Battlestar Galactica" before going to a party, only to get sucked in so deep they abandon all sanity, calling in sick to work, forgetting to pay for electricity, chanting "next one, next one."* This sort of behavior is crazy - but it's a fun, personal sort of crazy. Now think of that other "Portlandia" sketch, in which friends sit down for coffee, but instead of discussing what they've read, they try to one-up each other by asking if the other has read as much as they have, until they're literally eating the pages of a magazine. The Netflix push to "watch it now" makes TV feel like a race, one that I have no interest in running.
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It's been four days, more than 100 hours, and I still haven't finished Season 2 of "House of Cards."
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Russia said earlier this week that it had no intention of answering Western sanctions by making it harder for Western companies to conduct business in Russia.
But all bets are off, apparently, when you threaten the Russian waistline.
Don't judge mothers with messy homes
I was building shelves in my garage when a neighbor girl, one of my 4-year-old daughter's friends, approached me and said, "I just saw in your house. It's pretty dirty. Norah's mommy needs to clean more."
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A llama on the lam cruised Main Street Tuesday before it mistook a resident's fenced backyard for a place to grab a meal and freshen up.
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Naazneen Karmali, Forbes Staff
I write about India's wealth creators.
Tony Fernandes' dream of making air travel affordable for India's cab drivers with budget airline AirAsia India seems to be heading for a turbulent take-off. The announcement by the Tata Group, a partner in Air Asia's Indian venture, that it plans to establish a full-service carrier in a joint venture with Singapore Airlines Singapore Airlines has caused more than a flutter.
Arun Bhatia, the third partner in AirAsia India, said Friday that he wasn't in the know and was "shocked" to hear the news of the Tata-SIA deal. He reportedly went on to term the move as "unethical". Bhatia, who owns 21% of the new carrier and whose son Amit is married to steel tycoon Lakshmi Mittal's daughter, has offered to buy out the Tatas' 30% share in AirAsia India. He's likely to raise the issue at the carrier's next board meeting on September 28.
The Tatas have refuted the charge of a backdoor deal, saying that their talks with Singapore Airlines started around the same time that discussions on the joint venture with the Malaysian airline commenced and this was disclosed to AirAsia. Meantime, AirAsia India which has secured approval for its joint venture, has been preparing for a December take-off though final approvals for commencing operations are not yet in place.
" There will definitely be a conflict of interest between the two ventures, " said airline veteran Jitender Bhargava, a former executive director of state-owned carrier Air India and author of The Descent of Air India. " I would be surprised if Fernandes was unaware of the Tatas' discussions with Singapore Airlines."
While Bhatia has spoken his mind, Fernandes, the chief architect of the deal with Tata, has so far kept silent on the matter. In fact, over the weekend, Fernandes was busy hosting former group chairman Ratan Tata's visit to AirAsia's Kuala Lumpur headquarters from where he tweeted " Wonderful day with our partner and dear friend and legend. Lots of great ideas."
Intrigue and drama laced with accusations of conspiracy has long been a part of the aviation business in India that is heavily regulated by government. Often, rivals have a behind-the-scenes role to play. An AirAsia hand disclosed to me that a certain competitor was doing its utmost to delay their India launch. Airline tycoon Naresh Goyal, whose deal with Etihad Airways for his Jet Airways hit several air pockets before it was sealed, was himself accused in the past of causing Tatas' earlier joint venture with SIA to unravel back in 2000.
Tata is looking to avoid multiple partners to enter in the airlines sector as it will cause Indian Airlines drag out of the market.
Nathans Natural
Well one cannot ask for a better Synergy than Tata's on the one side in india and Air Asia from Malaysia which is one of the most successful ventures in recent times. The only snag is the political climate and Aviation policy by the present and future governments in Delhi who are yet to find a way out for their own carrier Air India.
Profitability of any new venture entirely depends upon the Aviation policy at the Center in Delhi and hope the partners of this new alliance have taken this into their think tank before they really venture out big. Lets not forget in haste the demise of Kingfisher.One can only wish well for the new venture.
I hope Tony Ferd. will learn a lesson for his big mouth. He lost TATA. TATA is not new to Air-Travel business. He can make better company than AIr-India. Air Asia.
I don't think there is a conflict of interest. There was no clause of "Conflict of interest" in a agreement. Problem is Tony.


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By Dan Linehan
The Free Press
MANKATO — There is a fear among immigrants that the census workers who will visit area homes that don't mail back their forms will use the information they collect as an immigration enforcement tool.
"We know that is going to be a barrier" to census data collection, said Victoria Salas, director of the nonprofit La Mano.
She said U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement is halting deportation proceedings while the census is being completed.
Salas, who is part of the statewide Latino Complete Count Committee, encourages people to fill out the census and has a Spanish language broadcast Saturdays from noon to 3 p.m. on KMSU.
For every 100 Minnesotans who don't fill out the 2010 census form, the state will lose $1 million in federal funding during the next 10 years.
That's $1,000 per person, per year.
Minnesota may also lose a congressional seat.
The census is prohibited by law from releasing personal data for 72 years and has never done so since the first census in 1790, said Barbara Ronningen, a state employee working on the census.
"You will never see anybody's name associated with anybody's data," she said.
She said the Department of War during World War II wanted to search census data for potential enemy combatants, but the Census Bureau took the war department all the way to the Supreme Court and won.
The language on the forms is another issue.
Bilingual forms are mailed for areas with a Latino population of more than 20 percent, which doesn't include anywhere in the Mankato region.
For privacy reasons, Salas and others can't accompany census workers when they visit homes that haven't returned their census forms.
La Mano's office in Madison East Center will be able to help people fill out the forms, she said.
There will also be a census worker who can help at Lincoln Community Center in room 210 for about a month beginning Monday. The worker will be available 9 a.m. to noon Monday through Thursday and 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday, said Bev Mountain, Adult Basic Education program coordinator.
She's asked for a worker who can speak Somali or Nuer, a language of southern Sudan.
Immigrants' worries over the census are nothing new, according to the Blue Earth County Historical Society. And they weren't the only ones worried about telling the truth to strangers.
Mary Todd Lincoln once managed to age only seven years between two censuses.


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Katie Thomas
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Katie Thomas is a senior at the University of Minnesota, Morris interning with the Morris Sun Tribune.
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MORRIS – Beginning in January, Center for Small Towns' student Abigail Thebault-Spieker has been digitally archiving documents for the Barnes-Aastad Soil and Water Conservation Research Association. The idea for the...
MORRIS – The tunnel between St. Mary's Elementary School and Assumption Catholic Church got a facelift over the weekend thanks to a group of University of Minnesota, Morris students and students at St. Mary's.
MORRIS – Stevens Traverse Grant Public Health and Stevens Community Medical Center have partnered together to conduct a public health assessment of the five counties that are part of the...
MORRIS -- Since November 2012, the University of Minnesota, Morris has slowly been converting some bathrooms on campus to gender-neutral restrooms as a result of a proposal from the campus'...
MORRIS -- Despite the harsh winter weather, construction of the Green Prairie Living and Learning Community at the University of Minnesota, Morris remains on schedule. With minimal construction delays, less...


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Here's a list of the main Canadian income tax changes that may affect your small business taxes for the 2009 tax year. While there are no changes that will have you leaping to your feet and starting to cheer here, income tax decreases and increased small business tax credits are always welcome - especially if they apply to your small business.
The Corporate Tax Rate
The corporate tax rate declines from 12% to 11% (as of January 1, 2008) for Canadian-controlled private corporations claiming the small business deduction. (See Corporate Tax Advantages of the Canadian-Controlled Private Corporation for details.) This is the net tax rate before surtax of the federal corporate tax rate (Part I tax).
The general corporate tax rate for 2009 (as of January 1) is 19%. It was 19.5% in 2008.
Increase of the Business Limit for T2 Returns
For calendar years 2009 and later, the maximum allowable business limit for a corporation that is not associated with any other corporation is $500,000. The maximum business limit was $400,000 in 2008.
(The Business Limit is used to calculate the Small Business Deduction, a tax deduction available to Canadian-controlled private corporations.)
Capital Cost Allowance
Computer equipment and systems software becomes a much faster write-off with the new Capital Cost Allowance rules for such equipment purchased after January 27, 2009 and before February 1, 2011 (Class 52). The Capital Cost Allowance rate is 100% and (to make it an even better deal) the standard half-year rule does not apply, meaning that you can fully write off eligible computer equipment and systems software in the same year you purchase it.
Computer equipment and system software acquired after March 18, 2007, and before January 28, 2009 is now assigned to Capital Cost Allowance (CCA) Class 50 with a CCA rate of 55%.
The computer equipment and/or systems software must not be used "principally as electronic process control, communications control, or monitor equipment" (Canada Revenue Agency).
Manufacturing and processing machinery and equipment is now Class 29 with a CCA rate of 50%.
"Currently, manufacturing and processing (M&P) machinery and equipment acquired after March 18, 2007, and before 2009, that would otherwise be included in Class 43 (eligible for a 30% declining balance CCA rate), is included in Class 29 and eligible for a 50% straight-line CCA rate. This will be extended for two years and will apply to eligible assets acquired in 2010 and 2011." (page 35 of T4012: T2 Corporation Income Tax Guide 2009). (Emphasis theirs.)
SR&ED (Scientific Research & Experimental Development)
Increase of the SR&ED Expenditure Limit
Canadian-controlled private corporations (CCPCs) that qualify can earn refundable Investment Tax Credits on their Canadian income tax at the rate of 35% on current and capital SR&ED expenditures, up to the expenditure limit of $3 million for tax years that end after February 25, 2008.
"This expenditure limit begins to reduce when the taxable income of the CCPC in the previous tax year exceeds $400,000 and becomes nil at $700,000" (See page 66 of T4012: T2 Corporation Income Tax Guide 2009).
Don't Miss Out on the SR&ED Tax Credit Program explains how the Investment Tax Credits work and how your small business can qualify.
Two Other Small Business Tax Credits
Apprenticeship Job Creation Small Business Tax Credits
Employers can earn Investment Tax Credits on their Canadian income tax equal to 10% of the eligible salaries and wages paid to eligible apprentices employed in their businesses in the tax year to a maximum credit of $2,000, per year per apprentice. To qualify the apprentice must be in a prescribed trade and in the first two years of their registered program.
Investment Small Business Tax Credits for Child Care Spaces
Creating one or more new child care spaces in a new or existing licensed child care facility for the children of their employees and for other children in the community will also earn employers an Investment Tax Credit on their Canadian income tax equal to the lesser of $10,000 or 25% of the eligible expenditure incurred after March 18, 2007, per child care space created. (This tax credit does not apply to child care service businesses.) Eligible expenditures include the cost of depreciable property and the amount of specified start-up costs. (See page 67 of T4012: T2 Corporation Income Tax Guide 2009).
If you are operating a sole proprietorship or a partnership, you can still get in on both the Apprenticeship Job Creation Small Business Tax Credits and the Investment Small Business Tax Credits for Child Care Spaces; see Investment Tax Credit: Individuals (Canada Revenue Agency) for details.
The great thing about these small business tax credits is that generally Investment Tax Credits can be carried back three years and carried forward 20 years, letting you reduce your federal income tax for a particular tax year.
Tax Filing Changes
Canadian Income Tax Mandatory Internet Filing
Almost all corporations with annual gross revenue of more than $1 million will have to Internet file their T2 income tax return for tax years ending after 2009. (There are some exceptions to this rule such as non-resident corporations and insurance corporations.)
Ontario Only Needs One T2
This is small business tax news that I think definitely rate at least one cheer; if you run a corporation that has a permanent establishment in Ontario, you now only have to file one T2 Income Tax Return with the Canada Revenue Agency (for tax years ending in 2009 or later), rather than having to fine one with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and a separate one with the province of Ontario.
You can also file the Corporations Information Act Annual Return with your T2 return.


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01-30-07, 08:20 PM #1Banned
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Videotaped Attack To Lead To Charges For Teen Girls
Not much of a writeup, it's a video report.
Figured it was coming, but this is the first I've seen of a YouTube (or whichever site) video becoming evidence.
There's only going to be more of this. That leads me to a question : If someone sees such a video and recognizes someone in it, are they required to report?
Videotaped Attack To Lead To Charges For Teen Girls
Eyewitness News has learned at least two teenaged girls will be charged in a fight caught on tape. Channel 9 first uncovered the video last week and brought it to the attention of Melbourne police. Since then, it has received nationwide attention. (01/30/07)
I think that's hilarious. If they want to act like trash, they should get treated like it too!Calm Like A Bomb...
A pessimist sees difficulty in every opportunity. An optimist sees opportunity in every difficulty.
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Police: Man Posed As Teen Son To Lure Girls Into HomeBy TXCharlie in forum In the NewsReplies: 2Last Post: 01-16-07, 10:30 PM


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Firefighters battled a two-alarm blaze at 71 Gooding St., the reported Old Kohl's Cycle Sales warehouse building.
Channel 4 News reports the building was vacant and had been used for storage. Mayor Michael Tucker told News 4 at the scene that three people, believed to be in their teens, were seen running from the building shortly before flames broke out.


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CDL TRUCK DRIVER wanted: dump experience, local hauling. Call 217-538-2456.
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CDL TRUCK DRIVER wanted: dump experience, local hauling. Call 217-538-2456.
DISTRICT TECHNOLOGY Support Specialist: 8 hours a day/12 month contract. Interested individuals should submit a letter of application to: Dr. Jennifer Garrison, Sandoval C.U.S.D. 501, 859 W. Missouri Ave., Sandoval, IL 62882. Sandoval CUSD 501 is an Equal Opportunity Employer
FULL TIME diesel mechanic, must have own tools, pay based on experience. Respond to Frailey's Diesel Repair, 1327 US Hwy 40, Brownstown, IL 62418, I-70 Exit 68. 618-283-9007.
GREAT CLIPS in Effingham is now hiring licensed. We offer guaranteed hourly wage plus commissions, pd vacation, pd holidays, closed all major holidays, pd CEU hours, 401-k employer match, health and dental insurance, plus much more. Contact Erin @ 342-4030.
GROWING 30 year old company hiring OTR drivers. All dispatched miles are paid. Benefits include 401K, Blue Cross Health Insurance, company paid life insurance, detention and lay over pay. Call Doug at Putnam Trucking 217-536-9101 ext 13 or 800-842-0195.
LCSW OR LCPC to work part time at private practice. Call 283-2883 text 292-2051 or fax resume 431-2278.
LOCAL COMPANY accepting applications for full-time employee. General labor, some electrical experience useful but not required. Send resume to Box E, Leader-Union, P.O. Box 315, Vandalia, Il 62471.
MATURE INDIVIDUAL needed to work with individuals with intellectual disabilities in their home. DSP (direct support person) certification preferred. Must have high school diploma or GED. Free meals, paid vacation, plus an opportunity to be part of a reputable organization. If you desire more with your future and have the desire to help others, apply in person at: Randolph House, 404 S. 1st St., (across from Stombaugh's Heating and Air Conditioning) Vandalia. EOE
PART TIME CLEANING/JANITORIAL Greenville, IL, $9.50 to start. Monday, Wednesday & Friday 2.5 hours/shift. Start time negotiable between 4:30pm & 6PM. Good work hist. & references required. Must pass crim. bg. ck. Pleas apply online at www.essclean.com EOE. Phone 217-337-6701 Fax 217-337-6889 2406 E University, P.O. Box 17067 (use for mailing), Urbana, IL 61803.
PART TIME janitor needed for general cleaning. Send resume to Box G, P.O. Box 315, Vandalia, IL 62471.
RN: NURSE Manager Position available at the Lighthouse Pregnancy Center. 6-12 hours per week. Please call 618-283-8750.
SEEKING LPNS & RNs ONLY. Private duty pediatric home care, Ramsey, Il 62080 Sun-Sat 7:30am - 5:30pm. Must have 1 yr practicing exp. Benefits Offered & Bonus Program. www.ansjobs.com 1-800-830-2737 Advantage Nursing Services.
VOLUNTEERS: SEEKING compassionate volunteers to serve as parenting class group facilitators as well as baby boutique retailers at the Lighthouse Pregnancy Center. Please call 618-283-8750.
WANTED SCREENING/ LABELING MECHANIC must have 1 to 2 years mechanic experience, previous experience in container decorating a plus. Candidates please provide work and wage history. Please submit resume or fill out application to: Signature Label, Inc., 2025 N. 8th St., Vandalia, IL 62471 or email email@example.com
WANTED: CLASS A CDL DRIVER Local/Regional runs, home most nights. 2 years verifiable experience preferred. Must have good MVR & CSA score. Interested applicants call 618-283-0916.


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|Home > Careers > Current Opportunities
Current Opportunities
Headquartered in Cork, Assurant Services Ireland Limited (ASIL) is part of Assurant, Inc. a provider of specialty property and consumer protection products. ASIL supports Assurant Solutions, a global provider of customised solutions designed to help its clients manage their risk-based activities and maximise their revenue potential. Assurant Solution's companies develop, underwrite and market niche insurance lines through strategic partnerships with financial institutions including mortgage lenders, mortgage packagers, credit card issuers, finance companies and retailers.
Assurant Solutions is part of Assurant, Inc., a premier provider of specialised insurance and other products and related services in North America and selected other markets. Assurant is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol AIZ and has approximately $US25 billion in assets and $US7 billion in annual revenue. The group comprises four key business units - Assurant Solutions, Assurant Specialty Property, Assurant Employee Benefits and Assurant Health.
In order to support our continued success and expansion, we are seeking to make the following pivotal appointments:
There are no vacancies at this time.
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Lawrence Township's annual Christmas Tree lighting ceremony will take place at 6 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 9, at the municipal building at 2207 Lawrence Rd. (Route 206).
Township officials will make a few brief statements, and members of the Lawrence High School Madrigal Choir will perform several holiday tunes.
Santa Claus, escorted by volunteer firefighters from Lawrence Road Fire Co., will then arrive to pose for photos with children and their families.
Refreshments will be served courtesy of Terhune Orchards.


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We know that it can be stressful when you are dealing with a lost tooth and among the best ways your Beverly Hills dentist can solve the problem is by installing a dental implant. With an implant in place, you'll find yourself able to chew normally, brush and floss in the same way and smile with total confidence. Dental implants by are the ideal solution when you want a functional, attractive solution for missing teeth.
Losing a tooth to an accident or extraction can be a painful and trying experience. Once it is gone, your smile will be marred by an ugly gap. Even though it looks bad, the real damage might be done by the extra space in your mouth. Your teeth will move when they are not all in place, leading to difficulty chewing, spaces between other teeth, crooked teeth and possibly even gum and bone disease. Our dentists at Bedford Dental Group can explain all the risks involved when you have lost teeth and show you how modern dental implants can be a safe and convenient solution.
The Dental Implant Procedure
Situation of a broken tooth.
A post is integrated into the bone.
A crown is placed over the implant.
Dental implants are different from other replacement options. When you choose bridgework as the solution, you don't fully solve the problem at the root of the tooth. Implants involve the insertion of a post into the root of your tooth, on top of which is placed the replacement tooth. There are no visible metals parts, no removal process and no fuss whatsoever once the procedure is complete. The fitting works perfectly within your set of natural teeth and from that point on you go about your business as you normally would. There is no need to change brushing and flossing habits and, best of all, there will not be a need to remove an implant.
Through a short series of visits to your Los Angeles Dentist, you will have the implant posted securely into your bone the same way as your natural teeth are set. While the special crown is being constructed, you wear a temporary tooth. Once the crown is finished in the lab, you return to Bedford Dental and have the procedure completed. Once we install the finished crown, your worries are over and you have a tooth you can use naturally forever.
Find out why dental implants are the top solution for missing teeth that our clients love. Every Bedford Dental Group dentist is trained in the art of dental implants and will explain the entire procedure to you before starting out. When you see what an attractive, convenient option dental implants are, it will be hard to choose another solution. We pride ourselves on personalized, individual service for every patient and try to provide the utmost in comfort during every visit. Find out why Bedford Dental is the choice of so many celebrities and athletes in the Beverly Hills area. Our work does not end until you have the perfect smile you have been dreaming about!


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July 30, 2014
FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) - The deadline to apply for the 2012 Kentucky elk hunt drawing has been extended through Wednesday.
The change is being made because an electrical storm Monday interrupted the state's ability to process online application payments. The Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources says its ePay system went down around 8:45 p.m. EDT Monday, leaving some 700 people unable to complete their transactions.
State regulation allows for the application period to be extended if technical problems occur. Applications will now close at 11:59 p.m. EDT Wednesday.
Hunters may apply only online at http://fw.ky.gov . Each application costs $10.
The drawing for an elk permit is open to residents and non-residents.


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We are delighted to announce an on-demand test scheduling service to help you meet your testing needs. This is an exclusive opportunity for you to help us shape the availability of the test in your market. To benefit from this service you will need to use PTE Academic vouchers and book the minimum number of seats required at your preferred location. This number is given within the form when choosing your test center.
At Pearson, we are committed to providing flexible dates in response to feedback from test takers, test score users and partners. The Pearson approach is to listen and respond to what you need from us to help support your international student recruitment. By working closely with you we aim to make the test available where and when you need it.
Where you need additional sessions or where test appointments do not always suit you and your students, we can offer you the option to request additional sessions to satisfy demand for PTE Academic.
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Pearson is part of Pearson Education Limited, a company registered in England and Wales number 872828 with its registered office at Edinburgh Gate, Harlow, Essex CM20 2JE.
Pearson will endeavour offer a choice of sessions within the date range you provide. If we cannot then we will suggest other possible dates for you.
You must agree to reserve the minimum number of seats required by the test center you wish to book (given in this form).
If you agree to a date and we reserve a test session for you, then you must use the vouchers you have entered on the booking form to schedule the tests. If you do not then the vouchers may be invalidated unless exceptional circumstances outside your control.
Vouchers cannot be reimbursed. If we cannot find suitable dates for you then you have 12 months from date of purchase to use the vouchers before they expire.
These terms and conditions are governed by and are subject to interpretation under the laws of England and any dispute will be finally resolved by the English courts.
Please note that Pearson reserve the right to revoke this offer at any time.
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News Article
Zombie fans have been waiting for what seems like forever to get to "Nebraska". That's the title of The Walking Dead's midseason premiere episode, which bows on Sunday, February 12th at 9 PM. But you don't have to wait any longer to watch the episode's first three minutes. Check 'em out after the jump.
Superhero Hype has the above scene. And if this serves as any sort of indication, it looks like the second half of the season should maintain the momentum built up in The Walking Dead's last episode, which aired back in November. More bloody mayhem and less navel gazing is fine by me. What do you think?


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Roslyn Anderson - bio | email
FLORA, Miss. (WLBT) – Will the lack of funding lead to the closure of a Madison County middle school?
It's something school board members are considering, but Flora parents and city leaders hope it doesn't happen.
They met Tuesday night to talk about their options.
Flora's mayor and Board of Aldermen gathered at city hall, one day after Madison County School Board members discussed closing East Flora Middle School to save money.
Approximately 147 students are enrolled at the middle school with about 15 teachers on staff.
Parents and city leaders object to the plan.
They said they lost their high school in 1991 and don't want their children bused the 12 miles to school in Madison.
"Seems like everything is trying to move to Madison. It's gonna hurt our businesses. It's gonna hurt a lot of families. A lot of tradition is over there at that school. We just want to try to pull together if at all possible to try to do something about this," said Rodrick Spencer, the parent of a sixth grader at the school.
"Without school there is no growth. We want our school in Flora. We're trying to save it, and if its anything that the flora community can do to save our school hopefully we will do it," said concerned parent Tiffany Valentine.
Flora Mayor Leslie Childress said shutting down the school would place a hardship on the town and patrons in the surrounding area.
"We need our middle school here. Our community needs it and what we're trying to do we're looking at all the options working with the school board and the problem is the funding through the legislature. Budgets are tight," said Mayor Childress.
According to Madison County School Superintendent Mike Kent, twice as much money is spent on students at Flora Middle School than others in the district.
He said the middle school is under performing and listed as 'at risk of failing' by state accreditation ratings.
"The school has only 147 students with expenditures per student of $14,000.00. The average per pupil expenditure is $7,700.00. It costs about $1 million dollars annually to operate," said Kent.
The East Flora PTA is encouraging parents to rally and fight the closure.
The mayor told residents attending the Board of Aldermen meeting that a letter will be sent to the legislature requesting help with the budget.
Despite the request, Childress said current projections indicate a 10% decrease from last year's funding.
The Madison County School Board will hold a public hearing on the possible closure during their February 7th regular meeting.
The East Flora Middle School PTA will meet Thursday at 6:00 p.m. in the school gym.
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Category Archives: art
Dreaming of Halos
Is the juncture of small human reality and larger Truth a kind of creative force? Continue reading
Posted in art, dream, faith, memoir, spirituality Tagged art, dream, faith, memoir, spirituality, what's a halo, what's an aura 2 Comments
Feeding Creativity With Constraints
Challenges are imagination stretchers. They open us to new ways of seeing and understanding. If they're oddly entertaining, even better. Continue reading
Posted in art, challenges, imagination Tagged art, challenges, creativity, imagination, imagination stretchers, Learning to Love You More, quirky art 3 Comments
38 Unexpected Ways To Revel In Snail Mail
You think snail mail is dull? Liven up your snail mail experience. Mail something unwrapped like a shovel. Make your own envelopes and seal them with homemade flavored glue. Write an un-thank you note. Correspond with a toddler. Get ahead at work using good old fashioned snail mail. Find out how one man mailed himself to freedom. Continue reading
Monday Hearts For Madalene
Love made visible. Continue reading
Posted in art, meaning Tagged art, grief, love, making love visible, meaning, monday hearts 5 Comments
Throw Strangely Amusing Parties
Host a pig pen party. Or a box party. Or get gluing with friends and make some art. Strange parties are the best parties. Continue reading
Posted in art, play Tagged art, art party, box party, creativity, mud fest, pig pen party, play 11 Comments
Batik Party: Color To Last A Lifetime
Remember when iron-clad rules limited women? Use an iron for batik instead. Continue reading
Posted in art, memory Tagged art, batik, domesticity, feminism, how to batik, memory, summer party 3 Comments
1,000 Ways To Play With A Cardboard Box
Free toys! Continue reading
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7 Ways To Make Your Day More Magical
Make your day more magical. Try eyebombing, alternative identities, a daily toast, and more. Continue reading
Posted in art, imagination Tagged art, fun, imagination, magical day 8 Comments
Making Beauty From Bombs
Transmuting horror into beauty by melting bombs into bracelets. Continue reading
Don't Say It, Draw It: Non-Threatening Sketching Inspirations
Drawing pulls us out of our habitual patterns of thinking. Like a form of meditation, it takes us to a place in ourselves that is deeper. How can you add some non-threatening sketch time to your life? Continue reading
Posted in art, imagination, mindfulness, selfhood Tagged art, imagination, mindfulness, selfhood 7 Comments


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New freestyle snowkite movie
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- Published on 10 April 2014
Andreas Toverud: LockON - Soloshot Freestyle Snowkite from Andreas Toverud on Vimeo.
Snowkite Masters 2014 –Day 1
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- Published on 12 January 2014
After a disappointing winter in Norway with close to no snow it was time to go to France again for the 10th annual Snowkite Masters, Snowkite World Championship. Arriving late last night I wasn't sure what to expect, but the morning came with loads of snow, sun from clear skies and temperatures just below zero. Perfect weather for snowkiting!
First up on the schedule was race. Not my strongest dicipline, but I thought why not compete when I'm here anyway!
There were 5 heats all toghether and I started out pretty bad in the first heat getting a foil kite through my lines just before the start. Even so, I managed to fight my way back up and finished 2nd. In the finals everything lined up and I managed to win! Bigg ups to the Best team for the new lightwind 15m TS. Awesome lightwind kite:) Now it's time to focus for the freestyle competition that kicks off tomorrow 09:30
New film–Amnesia
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- Published on 16 December 2013
Heres a new edit from my awesome trip to Brazil with Chris Bobryk, Alex Neto and Gisela Pulido from the Best Team.
The whipeout at the start is from a snowkite DVD; Whiteout, that will be published online for free shortly! Stay tuned :)
Shot in Uruau and Taiba with Canon 650D and 18-135mm STM. Perfect flat water, beautiful places, nice people and an awesome atmosphere. Perfect place to skip the dreadful autumn in Norway and train for the upcoming World Championship in France 11th to 18th of January
Amnesia from Andreas Toverud on Vimeo.
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- Published on 03 December 2013
After a fotoshoot in Cumbuco with the Best Team I headed down to Uruau to meet up with Marit Nore from Nordic Kite Girls and do some filming. The night before, Eric Leon and I drove down to Cumbuco for some food and on the way back we got pulled over by the cops not once, but twice! The first time we were stopped in a road block and it took us half an hour before we understood that the cops wanted money to let us pass, being all subtle about it in Portugease. When we finally got going again, Eric fell asleep and I managed to miss the exit to Taiba so we ended up in Paracuru 45 minutes south of Taiba where we got pulled over again in a Hollywood style ransacking of the car with guns poining at us the whole time and angry shouting in Portugease. Evidently they were searching for a robber trying to skip town so when our car turned out to be empty the cops turned civilised again. Exciting night!
When I finally started to close in on Uruau, I had to recruit a guy from a pizzeria in the closest town to show me the way because Uruau wasn't on the GPS
Luckily I didn't get robbed, and the place turned out to be a tiny fishing village with a prefect flatwater lagoon with room for about 5 kiters at the same time. Even so there was few kiters there so it didn't get too crowded most of the time
Marits roomate had broken her ancle a coupe of days earlier and got free fruit and treatment from the locals around town. Awesome people! Every morning we started the day with a big bowl of Acai; a local Brazilian dish made from frozen acai berries, milk, guruana sirrup, bannanas and grenola. Definitely one of the things I'm going to miss back home
Even though I only had 5 days in Uruau before I had to go back home, we managed to get a lot of great pictures and footage for a new edit. Stay tuned for that :)


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How to Appreciate Classical Music
Edited by Ms.Prez, Rob S, Jonathan Thorne, Brandywine and 13 others
The term classical music originates from the Latin term classicus, which means person of the highest class. After being recognized in France, Germany, and America it took on another definition meaning formal and high of dignity. Classical music is commonly played with instruments, though in opera and other pieces there are singers too.
1Understand that not all classical music is the same. Some pieces are very fast and harsh, while others are very graceful, slow and light. Some music is done with a voice, some with string instruments, and some with woodwind and brass. Knowing what kind you like to listen to will make it a whole lot easier to listen as well.Ad
2Find out more about it, such as who it was composed by, whether it's been in any shows, and which instrument has the melody.
3Be willing to listen. You need to give it a chance to learn to like it. Listen to the notes, patterns, and small details. Notice what each instrument brings to the piece.
4Try going to a live orchestral concert, choral concert, chamber concert, or band concert. Try to pick out the sounds of individual sections like the strings, woodwinds, brass or percussion. Discerning these components of the music can increase your appreciation of the piece. Then pick out individual instrument and see if you can hear the part they play.
5Many churches, such as the Catholic church, have classical music influences in their liturgical music. Consider the religious message behind the music and how that influences the sound.
6You can also learn how to play classical music. Classical instruments include flute, clarinet, violin, viola, cello, oboe, and even classical guitar. Get good classical music from well-know artists to start off.Ad
- If you love theater, literature, or film, or just enjoy a great story, you might find that attending an opera is a great way to start appreciating classical music.
- Find a composer that you like. If you enjoy that composer, you can listen to more of his work.
- Go to a "pops" concert. These are orchestral concerts, which usually feature shorter, more familiar classical pieces -- and/or popular music pieces played by the full orchestra -- that can ease you into more serious music.
- Remember that there are many classical pieces that are very famous. Some are even more famous than other kinds of music.
- On the opposite, it could be very interesting to try to listen to relatively unknown composers, like Rosetti or Telemann for example, not included in the "classical music for everyone's ears", to develop a personal taste and opinion.
- Try not to get stuck perpetually in "pops" music: try to move on to more serious music by listening to "greatest classical hits" albums. Often such CDs will have the best, shortest pieces. If you take these preliminary steps, you will subsequently find it easier to move on to full-length works by the most famous composers.
- Be careful with contemporary classical music.
- Contemporary music is extremely diverse. If you hear one piece you don't like, don't dismiss the whole field as pretentious. Move on to a different composer.
- Contemporary pieces can express a wide variety of emotions, including anger and turmoil. Thus, don't expect all music will sound pleasant (think background music to a scene in a horror movie).
- Some experimental music requires the full and undivided attention of the listener. Other pieces are very repetitive and act as ambient backgrounds. If a piece doesn't make sense to you, try changing how closely you're listening.
Article Info
Categories: Music Listening and Appreciation
Recent edits by: Quartal Harmony, Willyg63, Hayleyattack
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 34,078 times.


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7 votes
113 Likes = WH Petition against AIPAC.Submitted by Dialed-IN on Mon, 12/24/2012 - 03:38
In honor of the 113th Congress. If I get 113 likes on this page. I will submit a White House petition calling for the impeachment and removal from office all members of the House and Senate who have signed the AIPAC Letter, which we all know is basically a loyalty oath to a foreign power.
What do you say?
Please Comment Below!
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Huh? This a socialist
Submitted by compromise on Mon, 12/24/2012 - 08:44. Permalink
Huh? This a socialist petition which has nothing to do with AIPAC.
- Login to post comments


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Jim and Sherry Moss of Cohutta and Bruce and Cindy Parrott of Villanow announce the engagement and upcoming wedding of their daughter, Ashley Parrott of Dalton, to Gary Gazaway of Dalton, son of Lamar and Joyce Gazaway of Dalton.
The bride-elect's grandparents are Laverne Davis Dobson and the late Willard Davis, Max and Louise Tingler, Herb and Liz Parrott, all of Dalton, and Susie Cochran and the late Lloyd Cochran of Villanow. Ms. Parrott is the sister of Rhett Parrott of Dalton.
The groom-elect's grandparents are the late Otto and Velma Gazaway of Dalton and the late Ott and Ruby Stanton of Knoxville, Tenn. Mr. Gazaway is the brother of Kenny and Teresa Gazaway and Wayne Gazaway of Dalton, Randy and Gail Gazaway of Rocky Face, and Trena and Mark Bramblett of Calhoun.
Mr. Gazaway and Ms. Parrott are self employed.
The wedding will be held Oct. 2, 2009, at Treasure Island Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, Nev., at 4 p.m.
Weddings and Engagements
Parrott, Gazaway
- Weddings and Engagements
Long, Douglas
Lillian Lyda Long and John Michael Douglas were united in marriage June 11, 2011 at the First Presbyterian Church in Dalton. The 7:00 p.m. ceremony was officiated by the Reverend Dr. Russell Michael Shealy.
Crawford, Carroll
Arlene Crawford would like to announce the forthcoming marriage of her daughter, Magan Leigh Crawford to Brandon Alan Carroll. He is the son of Jerry Carroll and David and Kathy Stansell.
- Johns, Bowen
- Arnold, York
- Morris, Ingle
Chandler, Lopez
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Meredith Chandler of Dalton announce the engagement and forthcoming marriage of their daughter Elizabeth Nunn Chandler to Joe Anthony Lopez, both of Boynton Beach, Florida. He is the son of Domingo and Carmen Carrion of Port St. Lucie, Florida.
Bruner, Nickolai
Greg and Margie Bruner of Dalton announce the engagement and forthcoming marriage of their daughter, Megan Marie Bruner to Michael Joseph Nickolai, both of St. Louis, MO. He is the son of Tom and Bebe Nickolai of St. Louis.
Phillips, Ross
James and Nancy Ross of Tunnel Hill announce the engagement and forthcoming marriage of their daughter Amy Ross to Jason Phillips both of Tunnel Hill. He is the son of Jennifer Phillips and Roger Young of Dalton.
Williams, Free
Mr. and Mrs. Danny Williams of Rome announce the engagement of their daughter Melissa Dawn Williams to Ronald Jacob Free, son of Rev. Gregg and Victoria Free, also of Rome.
Head, Thomas
Laura Darby Head of Dalton and Steve R. Thomas of Henderson, KY were united in marriage June 25, 2011 at Dalton First United Methodist Church.
- More Weddings and Engagements Headlines
- Long, Douglas


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ANNAPOLIS, MD. (November 19, 2012) — This morning, two enthusiastic groups of local attorneys gathered at the Admiral Oaks Community Center in Annapolis and Pershing Hill Elementary School in Ft. Meade, and unloaded dozens of frozen turkeys, pies and other Thanksgiving favorites for the needy families of these communities.
This Thanksgiving dinner delivery is an annual tradition for members of the Anne Arundel Bar Association (AABA), which runs this community service initiative in cooperation with the Anne Arundel County Bar Foundation and Graul's Market.
Each year, the AABA invites its members to sponsor a Thanksgiving dinner for a family in need. Each sponsored family receives a 12 lb. frozen turkey, stuffing potatoes, corn, peas, cranberry dressing, dinner rolls and a pie.
This year, the Bar Foundation received $6,090 in donations and provided dinners to 128 families.
Despite the heavy lifting involved with the dinner delivery, the AABA never has trouble finding willing volunteers.
"It was wonderful for my son and I to meet so many nice people and to be able to help the AABA make sure these families have what everyone should have for Thanksgiving," said Hon.
Laura Kiessling, Anne Arundel County Circuit Court Judge and member of the AABA Board of Trustees. Judge Kiessling and her son Trey participated in the dinner delivery at the Admiral
Oaks Community Center.
Following the dinner delivery, the Bar Foundation donates any remaining funds to Food Link, a local nonprofit organization that provides emergency food and other support to the working poor.
"The holidays are a time when families in need are more keenly aware of what they don't have or can't provide for their own families," said Cathy Bird, Executive Director of Food Link. "[This gift] is so much more than writing that check; it is the vehicle that allows us to touch lives, to make a difference, to help families face the holidays with not just relief, but
Since 2002, the AABA and the Bar Foundation have raised more than $56,000 for the Thanksgiving dinner program.
In addition to supporting this program, the Bar Foundation also has raised nearly $40,000 for the Back-to-School Backpack Program and more than $114,000 to support the Anne Arundel Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), an organization that supports and advocates for abused and neglected children involved in Court proceedings.
The AABA is a nonprofit, professional society of more than 1,100 attorneys practicing in Anne Arundel County and in other communities throughout the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area. Through the Anne Arundel County Bar Foundation, our members provide vital legal assistance to the underserved and support community-based agencies with charitable gifts and volunteer service.


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The Lacrosse Radio Network Announces Launch
In Lax We Trust founder and manager Marisa Ingemi is proud to announce the launch of the Lacrosse Radio Network. The network, which founded in August 2011, plans to broadcast several shows and game broadcasts from around the lacrosse world. There are currently shows that cover the National Lacrosse League, Major League Lacrosse and Canadian box lacrosse.


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Files under: Enterprise, News
Posted by: Quintura @ 07:47 [3. 04. 08]
The Eastern Europe and Russia's largest software development outsourcing services provider EPAM Systems agreed to acquire Plusmicro, a leading ERP software development and services company in Kazakhstan in all-share deal. The deal is the first ever cross-border software company acquisition in Kazakhstan, the largest Central Asian country known for its vast mineral resources and not for technology expertise.
EPAM Systems, which was founded in 1993, reported revenues of $115 million in 2007. EPAM maintains U.S. headquarters in Lawrenceville, NJ, and European headquarters in Budapest, Hungary, as well as support and delivery operations in the U.K. and Germany. The company employs over 4,000 software developers in Russia, Belarus, Hungary, and Ukraine. Its major clients include SAP, BEA Systems, Microsoft, Oracle, Reuters, and Colgate-Palmolive.
EPAM Systems received $25 million investment from private equity firm Siguler Guff & Company in 2006.
Plusmicro, which was founded in the city of Karaganda in 1987, employs more than 80 software engineers. The company, which sells the Luca accounting and ERP software, has developed the taxation information system in Kazakhstan.
Update: Today EPAM Systems also acquired B2BITS Corp., a provider of software solutions and consulting services to capital markets organizations for an undisclosed amount, reported Private Equity HUB. Back in 2006, EPAM merged with a U.S./Russian software development outsourcing company Vested Development, Inc. (VDI).
Tags: acquisition, EPAM Systems, ERP, Kazakhstan, outsourcing, software development
© Quintura, Inc. If you wish to copy our content, please provide a hyperlink to Quintura blog.


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- Home
- Douglas (Jake) Jacobsen
Douglas (Jake) Jacobsen
Douglas (Jake) JacobsenDistinguished Professor of Church History and Theology
My current academic work focuses on two main topics: (1) the intersection of religion and higher education and (2) world Christianity.
Religion and Higher Education: No Longer Invisible: Religion in University Education (Oxford University Press, 2012), co-authored with my wife and fellow scholar Rhonda Hustedt Jacobsen, is my most recent publication in this area of study. Drawing on conversations with hundreds of professors, co-curricular educators, administrators, and students from institutions spanning the entire spectrum of American colleges and universities, Rhonda and I illustrate how religion is constructively intertwined with the work of higher education in the twenty-first century. Religion in contemporary American life is incredibly complex, with religious pluralism on the rise and the categories of "religious" and "secular" often blending together in a dizzying array of lifestyles and beliefs. Using the categories of historic religion, public religion, and personal religion, No Longer Invisible offers a new framework for understanding this emerging religious terrain, a framework that can help colleges and universities—and the students who attend them—interact with religion more effectively. No Longer Invisible is part of the Religion in the Academy Project (RITA) that Rhonda and I co-direct (see www.religionintheacademy.org ). Other recent RITA publications include Scholarship and Christian Faith (Oxford University Press, 2004) and The American University in a Postsecular Age (Oxford University Press, 2008).
World Christianity: Christianity is the world's largest religion—roughly a third of the world's population is Christian (more than 2 billion people)—and the most widely disseminated. About 13% of the world's Christians live in North America, 27% live in Europe, 24% in Latin America, 20% in Africa, and 16% in Asia. In terms of faith and theology, Christianity can be divided into four main traditions. Roughly half the Christians in the world are Catholic, about 10% are Eastern Orthodox, 20% are classic Protestant, and 20% are Pentecostal or Charismatic. How all of this theological diversity is layered on top of the global expanse of Christianity in the 21st century is explained in my recent book The World's Christians: Who they are, Where they are, and How they got there (Wiley/Blackwell, 2011). I am currently beginning a new writing project dealing with world Christianity that is tentatively entitled Following Jesus: The Global Trek of a Middle Eastern Religion.
Other Areas of Interest: In addition to the topics mentioned above, I continue to be interested in the history of the Pentecostal/Charismatic movement. See Thinking in the Spirit (Indiana University Press, 2003) and A Reader in Pentecostal Theology (Indiana University Press, 2006). And, as a theologian, I remain committed to explaining Christian beliefs and practices in ways that bend toward the gracious rather than the pugnacious. See Gracious Christianity (Baker Academic, 2006).
Ph.D, 1983
The University of Chicago
The University of Chicago
Wheaton College
Contact Information:
Messiah College
Suite: 3053
E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com
Phone: (717) 796-1800 ext.3020
Fax: (717) 796-4790


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John XXI (XX) was crowned on September 20 by Cardinal Giovanni Gaetano Orsini, the Cardinal Protodeacon. On October 7 or 17, he received the fealty of King Charles I for the Kingdom of Sicily (Moroni, 59 says October 17; the text quoted by Cristofori, 343-348 has the date of October 7). He died in Viterbo on May 20, 1277, allegedly because some construction work had fallen on him six days earlier, and was buried in San Lorenzo.
The conclave began in May, and, without the regulations of Gregory X, dragged all the way through the summer and into autumn (Chronicon de rebus in Italia gestis, p. 366; Annales Placentini in MGH 18, 569):
Eodem tempore maxima discordia erat inter cardinales Rom(a)e de electione pastoris in civitate Viterbii, et ibi sunt tantum VII cardinales: tres tenent unam viam scilicet dominus Johannes Gaytanus [Orsini], Jacobus de Sivello et Mattheus Rubeus [Orsini]; alii tres scilicet dominus Anserius [Pantaleoni], Symonus de Tursso et dominus Guillelmus cardinales tenent aliam viam.... Episcopus vero Sabinensis cardinalis tenet mediam viam nec declinat ad unam nec ad aliam.
The major background issue was whether the new pope would favor Charles of Anjou and his control over the city of Rome and Tuscany, or oppose him. Charles was certainly opposed to the Orsini.
.At the time of Pope John's death, there were perhaps eight or nine cardinals, though some are not mentioned by the Chronicon:
According to the Chronicon de rebus in Italia gestis ( p. 367).
De mense novembris die jovis XXV novembris in civitate Viterbii cardinales in concordia invocato nomine Salvatoris eligerunt in Summum Pontificem dominum Johannem Gaytanum cardinalem et vocatum est nomen ejus Nicholaus tercius. Et cessavit apostulatus per sex menses et VI dies et in festo beati Stephani in urbe coronatus est per cardinales.
Cardinal Giovanni Gaetano Orsini, the son of the Roman nobleman Matteo Rosso Orsini and Perna Caetani, was elected on November 25, 1277, and took the name Nicholas III. This was a defeat for the French party in the Sacred College and in Italy. The papal throne had been vacant for six months and six days. Nicholas III was ordained priest on December 18, consecrated Bishop on December 19, and crowned on the Feast of St. Stephen, December 26, in Rome (Moroni, 48, 9).
On March 12, 1278, less than three months after his coronation, the Pope created new cardinals, to diminish the French influence in the Sacred College:
It may be noted that, although five new Cardinal Bishops are named on March 12, 1278, no new Cardinal Bishop is named to replace Bertrand de Saint Martin, whom some consider to have died before the conclave of May-November 1277, despite the evidence of the Chronicon de rebus in Italia gestis. Might it be that the Chronicon is correct, and that Bertrand was not dead?
Chronicon Placentinum et Chronicon de rebus in Italia gestis (edited by J.L.A. Huillard-Bréholles (Paris: Plon 1856).
Friedrich Baethgen, "Eine Pamphlet Karls I. von Anjou zur Wahl Papst Nikolaus III.," Sitzungsberichte der Bayerischen Akademie der Wissenschaften, Phil-historische Klasse (1960).
Lorenzo Cardella, Memorie storiche de' cardinali della Santa Romana Chiesa Tomo primo Parte secondo (Roma: Pagliarini 1792). Ludovico Antonio Muratori, Annali d' Italia Volume 18 (Firenze 1827). Giuseppe de Novaes, Elementi per la storia de' Sommi Pontefici terza edizione Volume III (Roma 1821). G. Moroni, Dizionario di erudizione storico-ecclesiastica Volume 48 (Venezia 1848) 9. Paul Durrieu, Étude sur les registres angevines du Roi Charles Ier Tome second (Paris 1888), 179-180. F. Gregorovius, History of Rome in the Middle Ages, Volume V.2 second edition, revised (London: George Bell, 1906) 477-479. Augustin Demski, Papst Nikolaus III, Eine Monographie (Münster 1903) 34-37. Richard Sternfeld, Der Kardinal Johann Gaetan Orsini (Papst Nikolaus III.) 1244-1277 (Berlin: E. Ebering 1905) 287-300, who accepts the authority of the Annales Placentini and states that there were seven electors (pp. 288-289); he chooses, however, to substitute the name of Goffredo de Alatri for that of Simon of Santa Cecilia (289, n. 3). Robert Brentano, Rome Before Avignon: A social history of Thirteenth Century Rome (Los Angeles: University of California Press 1990).
On Simon de Brie and the Council of Bruges in September, 1276, see Carl Joseph von Hefele, Conciliengeschichte nach dem Quellen bearbeitet second edition Volume VI (Freiburg im Breisgau: Herder 1890) 176-177. Otto Posse, Analecta Vaticana (Oeniponti: Libraria Academica Wagneriana 1878).
Suspension of Gregory X's constitution on papal elections: Adrian V (Ottobono Fieschi) suspended the arrangements of Pope Gregory orally in a consistory: Giordano, quoted in Reynaldi, Annales Ecclesiasticae sub anno 1276. They were officially cancelled by the Bull Licet of Pope John XXI on September 30, 1276. A. Ceccaroni Il conclave (Roma 1901) 57.
©John Paul Adams, CSUN