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Home > Catalog > General > DE0080
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The purpose of this one-day conference is to provide continuing education for dental providers who practice in rural areas and community health center dental clinics.
David Ettinger Session Summary & Learning Objectives: In this session, you will learn about extractions from routine to impactions including surgical complications, how to best manage infections, evaluation and treatment including medical management and surgical management, and dentoalveolar injuries from proper diagnosis to treatment. Upon completion of this session, the participant will be able to: 1. List 3 common complications of extractions and identify management strategies. 2. Recognize severity of infections and summarize how to manage. 3. Recognize different dentoalveolar injuries and list treatment strategies. R. Scott Boots Session Summary & Learning Objectives: Health care providers are often at risk for burnout. This session will teach the health care provider to set healthy boundaries and respond to stress in healthy ways so he/she can better care for others. Upon completion of this session, the participant will be able to: 1. Distinguish dynamics of providing care. 2. Articulate how each person experiences stress uniquely. 3. Identify symptoms of compassion fatigue. 4. Utilize practical, proven solutions and exercises for stress reduction. 5. Set healthy goals and create a future response plan for personal/professional stress. Irene Hilton Session Summary & Learning Objectives: Two phrases usually guaranteed to produce uncertainty in most dentists are "pregnant women" and "dental care". While data show that pregnant women in all insurance categories receive dental care less than other individuals, the research evidence base as well as common sense reveal many reasons why the perinatal period is an optimum time to provide necessary dental care. This presentation will review the current research on how a women's oral health may affect her children, and review current clinical guidelines for providing appropriate preventive and restorative treatment of pregnant women. Upon completion of this session, the participant will be able to: 1. Explain effect of maternal oral health on families. 2. Describe why pregnancy provides opportunity to provide oral health interventions for women. 3. Apply the elements of clinical prevention and treatment guidelines for pregnant women. 4. Describe how to develop medical-dental integration in the health care setting that improves perinatal health.
It is the policy of the Indian Health Service, Division of Oral
Health, that faculty/planners disclose any financial or other relationships with commercial companies whose products may be discussed in the educational activity.
The Indian Health Service, Division of Oral Health, also requires that faculty disclose any unlabeled or investigative use of pharmaceutical products and medical devices.
Images that have been falsified or manipulated to misrepresent treatment outcomes are prohibited.
None of the faculty/planners for this activity has a conflict of interest, and there is no use of unlabeled or investigative pharmaceutical products or medical devices.
No images have been falsified or manipulated to misrepresent treatment outcomes.The educational objectives, content, and selection of educational methods and instructors are conducted
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Concerns or complaints about this course may be directed to Mary Beth Kinney or to ADA CERP (http://www.ada.org/goto/cerp).
Tuition must be paid in full 8 weeks prior to the start date of any course. Request for refunds must be received in writing at
least two weeks before the course begins. For each refund request, there will be an administrative charge of $100. No refunds will be made to registrants who fail to attend a course.
If IHS CDE program cancels a course, then 100% of the tuition will be refunded.
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The Boeing 737 Technical Guide (Colour version)
Paperback, 364 Pages
Price: $89.39
Prints in 3-5 business days
An illustrated technical guide to the Boeing 737 aircraft. Containing extensive explanatory notes, facts, tips and points of interest on all aspects of this hugely successful airliner and showing its technical evolution from its early design in the 1960s through to the latest advances in the re-engined MAX. The book provides detailed descriptions of systems, internal and external components, their locations and functions, together with pilots' notes a detailed guide to airtesting and technical specifications. It is illustrated with over 500 colour photographs, diagrams and schematics. Chris Brady has written this book after many years developing the highly successful and informative Boeing 737 Technical Site, known throughout the world by pilots, trainers and engineers as the most authoritative open source of information freely available about the 737. THIS IS THE COLOUR COIL BOUND VERSION. FOR B&W, HARDBACK, POCKET SIZE or EPUB VERSIONS PLEASE SEE OTHER LISTINGS.
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Kohler K-352-CP
Polished Chrome Forte Adjustable Wall Mounted Hand Shower Holder
Item # bci168571 | Model # K-352-CP | Forte Collection
Limited time only
Questions about Kohler K-352-CP?
Contact us for advice or more details. Our product specialists are here to help.
Product Features:
- Constructed of brass ensuring durability and dependability
- Covered under Kohler's one year limited warranty
- High quality finish – will resist rust and corrosion through everyday use
- Coordinates seamlessly with the Forte Collection
- Versatile design complements a variety of bathroom decors
- Width: 2-1/4"
- Projection (Depth): 3-1/2"
- Height: 2-1/4"
- Secure mounting assembly
- All hardware required for installation is included
Additional Kohler Links
This Kohler item can also be referenced by the following color/finish specific model #:
- Kohler K-352-BV
Brushed Bronze
- Kohler K-352-G
Brushed Chrome
- Kohler K-352-BN
Brushed Nickel
- Kohler K-352-AF
French Gold
- Kohler K-352-2BZ
Oil Rubbed Bronze (2BZ)
- Kohler K-352-PB
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- Kohler K-352-CP
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- Kohler K-352-SN
Polished Nickel
*Discontinued model or finish
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Discover the best online deals for the Kohler K-352 and everything else for your home from the leading online home improvement store.
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- Binding: Hardcover and Ebook
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- Number of Pages: 208
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- Date Available: March 2007
Clear The Decks Price*
Your tax-deductible gift to the Naval Institute Press underwrites worthy books that might not otherwise be published.
Read the extensive feature article on Montes in April 18, 2013 issue of The Washington Post magazine
"Several years ago, I informed the Federal Bureau of Investigation of a growing suspicion that one of our own DIA employees, Ana Belen Montes, was secretly an agent of the Cuban government. The evidence at first was weak, but I worked with the FBI over several years to develop the facts and finally bring her to justice. This book is the inside story of that long and ultimately successful spy hunt." --Scott W. Carmichael
Ana Montes appeared to be a model employee of the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA). Known to her coworkers as the Queen of Cuba, she was an overachiever who advanced quickly through the ranks of Latin American specialists to become the intelligence community's top analyst on Cuban affairs. But throughout her sixteen-year career at DIA, Montes was sending Castro some of America's most closely guarded secrets and at the same time helping influence what the United States thought it knew about Cuba. When she was finally arrested in September 2001, she became the most senior American intelligence official ever accused of operating as a Cuban spy from within the federal U.S. government. Unrepentant as she serves out her time in a federal prison in Texas, Montes remains the only member of the intelligence community ever convicted of espionage on behalf of the Cuban government.
This inside account of the investigation that led to her arrest has been written by Scott W. Carmichael, the DIA's senior counterintelligence investigator who persuaded the FBI to launch an investigation. Although Montes did not fit the FBI's profile of a spy and easily managed to defeat the agency's polygraph exams, Carmichael became suspicious of her activities and with the FBI over a period of several years developed a solid case against her. Here he tells the story of that long and ultimately successful spy hunt. Carmichael reveals the details of their efforts to bring her to justice, offering readers a front-row seat for the first major U.S. espionage case of the twentieth century. She was arrested less than twenty-four hours before learning details of the U.S. plan to invade Afghanistan post-September 11. Motivated by ideology not money, Montes was one of the last "true believers" of the communist era. Because her arrest came just ten days after 9/11, it went largely unnoticed by the American public. This book calls attention to the grave damage Montes inflicted on U.S. security--Carmichael even implicates her in the death of a Green Beret fighting Cuban-backed insurgents in El Salvador--and the damage she would have continued to inflict had she not been caught.
Scott W. Carmichael, the senior security and counterintelligence investigator for the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), served as the lead case agent for the DIA on the Ana Montes espionage investigation. He has been investigating attempts by foreign intelligence services to penetrate DIA operations worldwide for nearly twenty years. Prior to that he was a Chinese-Mandarin linguist in the U.S. Navy and a special agent of the Naval Criminal Investigative Service. His contributions toward the successful resolution of national security matters have earned Carmichael the DIA Civilian Expeditionary Medal and Award for Meritorious Civilian Service, the Defense Intelligence Director's Award, the Department of Defense Counterintelligence Award, and the National Intelligence Medal of Achievement, among other awards and various forms of recognition. He lives with his wife and three sons in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area.


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|Gail Santy, Department Head
Ext: 107
|Amy Mayhill, Reader's Advisor
Ext. 117
"Dig that crazy paperback!"
We extend our library services to the unserved rural residents by lending books through the U.S. Postal Service.
We mail out a catalog of mysteries, westerns, romances, how-tos, nonfiction, etc. to the registered residents in our region. Anyone living in a town in the Central Kansas Library System area that does not have a library, or anyone in the same area living on a rural route, is entitled to register to receive the catalog and use these services. People who have received this catalog can order books. We mail the books and pay postage both ways.
If you would like to receive a catalog in the mail, please contact the Books-by-Mail Department.
To sign up, call us at 620-792-4865 and ask for Books by Mail.
You can also order books from these catalogs: Fall 2011 Winter 2011 Spring 2012 Summer #1 2012 Summer #2 2012 Fall 2012 Winter 2013 Spring 2013 Summer 2013 Summer Supplement 2013 Fall 2013
Books by Mail patrons receive a new bookmark each month, created by the Reader's Advisor. Bookmarks vary from author spotlights to lists of new books, or highlights of particular genres, and much more. Feel free to print these and give them to your patrons, or create your own! To view archived Books by Mail bookmarks, click on the links below:


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1982-06-01 Char-Koosta News
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Salish-Kootenai Community College Box 1020 Ronan, MT 59864 C PABLO, MONTANA 59855 ISSN: 0528-8592 NEWSPAPER OF THE SAUSH, PEND cTOREILLE AND KOOTENAI TRIBES OF THE FLATHEAD INDIAN RESERVATION , WESTERN MONTANA VOLUME 11 NUMBER 2 NEW MOON OF THE CAMAS JUNE 1, 1982 County commissioners withdraw from shoreline board The Shoreline Protection Board, highly publicized in all of the Reservation's newspapers, fell apart last month during its second meeting. Comprised of four Tribal council-men (one without a vote) and three non-Indians (who happened to be commissioners for Lake County), the board was set up to establish procedures for implementing a Tribal ordinance designed to monitor use of the south half of Flathead Lake. At issue is the commissioners' contention that the Tribes intend to enforce Ordinance 64A (Shoreline Protection) before it is decided by the Supreme Court whether or not the Tribes have that authority. The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals says the Tribes do have such authority, but three non-Indian groups - the Namen family, the city of Poison, and the state of Montana - plan to challenge that ruling in the highest judicial forum in the country, the Supreme Court. Local papers announce that Lake County will be helping finance the appeal against the Tribes. Attorney for the anti-Tribal jurisdiction movement, Urban Roth, plans to petition the Ninth Circuit Court to temporarily return authority over the affected portion of the lake to the state, according to a story in a Montana daily paper. Council to experiment with reorganization The month of June will see the Tribal government experiment with a new meeting schedule, designed to save money and speed up the decision-making process. The reorganization calls for suspending all existing committees, and setting up three new ones, each made up of the full Council: Administration (governmental), Human Resources (social), and Natural Resources (economic). The Council will convene eight times in June, twice for each sphere of concern above, plus twice for outside organization. (See calendar on page 15). All Tribal departments have been assigned to one committee. The new system, designed by two or three modest Tribal employees, will allow all matters of concern to be discussed once, and perhaps a decision to be made that same day. Previously, an issue was thoroughly discussed before a four-man committee, then sometimes once again before the full Council, before a solution could be adopted It's hoped, too, that the councilmen will become better informed about all the issues concerning the Tribes, thus becoming better representatives for their constituencies. Figures indicate that roughly $24,000 can be saved each year in Council expenses, should the new schedule survive its one-month probation period. INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Summer employment for teens.................Page 4 Health Corner: Rabies........................Page 12 June Calendar..............................Page 15 Council minutes.................... ........Page 23
Object Description
|1982-06-01 Char-Koosta News
|Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes of the Flathead Reservation.
|Salish Indians --Newspapers.; Kutenai Indians --Newspapers.; Pablo (Montana) --Newspapers.; Kootenai Indians
|County commissioners withdraw from shoreline board; Council to experiment with reorganization; BIA lives in Pablo now; Whatever happened to BIA's reorganization?; Tribes grow trees for state; Employers: Can you exchange training for extra help this summer?; Life gets tougher for commodity office; A few words about rabies; Hearing scheduled in Helena for Montana vets; G.I. Bill rights extended; Is your military insurance in shape?; VA might buy you a car; Tennessee radio station wants Indian news; Smith requests $15 million for tribes; House to consider bill to help housing, timber industries; Coldiron gets ornery about timber fees; Dip in icy waters ends whale season for Alaskan villagers; Weaver is sheriff candidate.
|Salish and Kootenai Tribes of the Flathead Indian Nation
|Date Original
|Date Digital
|Resource Identifier
|Rights Management
|Copyright (c) Salish and Kootenai Federated Tribes, all rights reserved.
|Contributing Institution
|Salish Kootenai College
|D'Arcy McNickle Library
|Vol. 11; No. 2
|Digitization Specifications
|Digitized at the University of Montana Maureen and Mike Mansfield Library; Scanned as master TIFF using Bookeye 3 scanner at 400 ppi, 8 bit grayscale; Optical Character Recognition with Abbyy FineReader Corporate Edition; Derivatives created using Photoshop CS
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07 September 2007
Tachyon's Superluminal Velocity
Recently, I've been continually impressed by Tachyon Publications, and I realized I haven't really said much here about Tachyon -- in many ways, I've just taken them for granted. Taking them for granted is a terrible thing to do, though, especially since they have a particular commitment to short story collections and anthologies, the sort of books that bigger publishers often consider anathema, but that devoted readers (like all of us, of course!) feast upon. (Mmmm, good paper, tasty book...)
I was looking around for some information on Jim Kelly and John Kessel's upcoming book, Re-wired: The Post-Cyberpunk Anthology, and I saw an offer from way back in May on the Tachyon blog for free shipping in the U.S. on all pre-orders (the book will be published in October). I wondered if the deal was still good, so I contacted Jill Roberts, and she said, indeed, it is -- for all forthcoming books, not just Re-wired. Just email Jill. (It may not apply to Shatterday and The Dog Said Bow-Wow, since those were just released a few days ago.)
Much of what is upcoming is pretty spectacular -- take a look at the just-announced spring list: the VanderMeers' steampunk anthology, a new novel by Thomas M. Disch, Year's Best Fantasy 8, a new Nancy Kress thriller, and a reprint of Tim Powers's The Stress of Her Regard.
I'm very curious about Tachyon's past and future, and so am preparing an interview with Jill, who is managing editor, and with Jacob Weisman, who is publisher and editor-in-chief. Cheryl Morgan published an interview with Jacob almost exactly three years ago, and it will be interesting to see what has changed and what hasn't in that time.
3 comments:
- Gursky9/10/2007 9:13 AM
Much as I love Harlan Ellison*, Shatterday doesn't look so great. The back cover, however, is hilarious. Ellison writes about how great the book is, pointing readers to a few key pages. Fun gimmick. Unfortunately, I did turn to those pages and was severely underwhelmed. Tachyon's anthologies are great though. Their Tiptree and Best Fantasy annuals are, of course, extremely well done, but when I opened their slipstream anth. and saw reprints of messageboard discussions of the phrase I may have squee-ed a little bit.ReplyDelete
Quick and shameless promotion: we carry the best of their catalogue at McNally Robinson in NY.
*Imagine that that asterisk is actually Ellison's ridiculous Restricted symbol. Also, if one footnote can be made to serve double duty, I don't actually love Ellison. He's almost as over-hyped as Bradbury.
- Gursky9/10/2007 9:13 AM
Also, cute post title.ReplyDelete
I don't really care for much of Ellison's work, with the exception of a few stories (most of which are in Deathbird Stories), but I can recognize that a lot of other people do like his work immensely, and will value having one of his older collections back in print in an affordable edition. I'm a big fan of the Hartwell/Cramer fantasy annuals, and was thrilled to see Tachyon pick them up and save them from oblivion. I'm still perplexed by the editing of the Tiptree anthologies, but now that a bunch of them are out and most of the Tiptree-winning and -nominated short fiction is back in print, I think they're hugely important. And I love Feeling Very Strange, especially the pieces from David Moles's blog, because that gives such a sense of the conversation happening among some of the writers who are playing around with the idea of "slipstream" or whatever (INFERNOKRUSHER!!!!). So much of that sort of discussion from the past has been lost, I'm all for preserving at least a little bit of it now, and letting the book contextualize those arguments and help spark more. I just got a galley of ReWired, and it includes some letters between John Kessel and Bruce Sterling that are fascinating and in some ways tantalizing -- I wish there were a lot more of them!ReplyDelete
Thanks for getting the post title, too!


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How to Fix a Dried-Out Thanksgiving Turkey Breast (00:30)
You overcook your Thanksgiving turkey and the breast meat is all dried out. No problem! Roxanne Webber, senior features editor at CHOW.com, shares an easy way to make your turkey juicy again. For more Thanksgiving video tips from CHOW, see If You Break It, Fake It: How to Avoid Thanksgiving Cooking Disasters.
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Senior dining meals are served at 11:30 a.m., Monday through Friday, at Ross Park Apartments. Meals on Wheels are also available. Seniors 60+ from the community are welcome to join in for the meal. Contact Sleepy Eye Home Health, Nutrition Site managers at 794-5193. Menus are as follows.
Monday, Feb. 11 - Chicken and rice casserole, marinated vegetable salad, carrots, bread, dessert, milk.
Tuesday, Feb. 12 - Barbecued pork chop, baked potato, broccoli, bread, dessert, milk.
Wednesday, Feb. 13 - Salmon loaf, mashed potatoes, creamed peas, bread, dessert, milk.
Thursday, Feb. 14 - Roast turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, stuffing, cranberry garnish, dessert, milk.
Friday, Feb. 15 - Fish patty, oven browned potatoes, country blend vegetables, bun, dessert, milk.
Location, ST | website.com


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Shopper Combo Print Tote - Maze Combo
Detailshttp://www.kipling-usa.com/shopper-combo-print-tote/100126085.html Shopper Combo Print Tote Maze Combo
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- 1 Interior zip compartment
- 3 pen slots; 2 media pockets
- Dual strap carrier
- Fabric: Nylon, Lining: Polyester
- Imported
Ground Shipping Delivery: $8*
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*Rates and delivery times for the 48 continuous United States
Returns must be made within 90 days of delivery for a refund of the purchase price, minus the shipping, handling, gift box fee and other additional charges.


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You've all probably have heard of the Running of the Bulls, an annual event in Spain were daring individuals try to stay ahead of stampeding bulls running down narrow streets. Well here in Philly we try and do it one notch better, have you heard of the Running of the Santas? No? Well just in case you missed this gem of a cultural event, below is a gallery. Every variety of Santas possible runs from Finnegan's Wake on Sporing Garden to Festival Pier on Delaware ave.
More Info Here: Running of the Santas 2012


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Utilities services include the following:
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Local Development
UNDP works at the local level across thematic areas, including biodiversity and ecosystem services, land, water, energy, community-based adaptation (CBA) to climate change, and reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation (UN-REDD). Activities are guided by four Strategic Priorities:
- Promote rights, access, and finance mechanisms: Strengthen institutional, policy, and legal frameworks to broaden local access to environment and energy resources and services, and to enable finances to flow to the local level.
- Enhance environmental management and finance capacity: Enhance the capacity of local actors to access environmental finance and plan, implement and monitor environment and energy programmes, enterprises and service delivery.
- Facilitate learning and knowledge-sharing: Promote peer-to-peer learning, knowledge-sharing, and documentation of best practices to make local action more effective, sustainable, and replicable.
- Strengthen community voices in policy processes: Ensure that local actors are positioned to advocate for their rights and entitlements related to environment and energy in national and international fora.
While each Strategic Priority has a distinct scope and modality, they are all strongly correlated and interdependent, where positive outcomes in one area result in positive outcomes in the others. Where national, sub-regional and local capacity is improved, knowledge exchange both among local actors and between local actors and national policy makers becomes possible. With increased access to resources, strengthened local capacity, and facilitated learning exchanges, local actors are better positioned to influence and inform national and international policy as well as to take action locally. When local actors are able to influence policy, they can lower the barriers that limit their access to resources and institutional support, aligning local needs with global and national sustainable development targets.
UNDP carries out several strategic roles in order to achieve these priorities:
- Local-national link: Link capacity building and empowerment of local actors with action to strengthen the enabling environment through appropriate national and international policies.
- Convener: Convene multiple stakeholders to coordinate support for local action.
- Social capital developer: Empower communities to enhance participatory landscape planning and adaptive management.
- Funding facilitator: Establish long-term funding facilities that support local action.
- Capacity builder: Build capacity and provide support services to enable the scaling up of documented best practices and innovations.
- Communicator: Demonstrate the positive social, economic, and environmental contributions to sustainable development made by local communities and the rural poor, emphasizing the interdependency of these contributions.
Related Publications and Resources
Programmes and Initiatives
- Highlights: UNDP's Work at the Community Level
- UNDP-GEF Small Grants Programme (SGP)
- Community-Based Adaptation to Climate Change Initiative
- GEF, Mainstreaming Global Environment Issues into Development
- Equator Initiative
- Engagement with Civil Society
- Legal Empowerment of the Poor
- Community Development and Knowledge Management for the Satoyama Initiative (COMDEKS)
- Strengthening environmental governance by building the capacity of non-governmental organisations (NGOs)
Equator Initiative
Case Study Database
Access a rich repository of best practice case studies on biodiversity conservation and much more.


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Donations requested for kids' summer snack packs
Published: Friday, August 2, 2013 at 7:18 a.m.
Last Modified: Friday, August 2, 2013 at 7:18 a.m.
The Fletcher Area Business Association provides snack packs for children in the community over the summer, with dropoff sites in Fletcher at First Restoration Services, Universal Healthcare and United Federal Credit Union.
Items include paper goods, snacks and juice for children 5-10 years old. School supplies are also accepted.
Bring snacks or supplies from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. between Monday and Friday. For more information, contact Sherri Redden at 828-684-1582.
Reader comments posted to this article may be published in our print edition. All rights reserved. This copyrighted material may not be re-published without permission. Links are encouraged.


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All things energy, from solar and wind power to efficiency and off-grid living.
If you're shopping for a solar energy system, one of your first questions is probably, "how much will it cost?" Prices depend on the size of your system, the type of equipment you choose, and the state that you live in, but reviewing prices for a 5 kilowatt (kW) system is a great place to start – that's the average system size in the United States. Learn more about how much a 5kW solar system costs, how much electricity a 5kW system will produce, and the smartest way to shop for solar.
We looked at data from the EnergySage Solar Marketplace, the leading comparison-shopping platform for homeowners who are considering home solar panel systems, to find out just how much solar shoppers are paying for 5kW solar energy systems in different states across the U.S.
The prices listed below have already had the 30 percent federal tax credit for solar deducted. Depending on where you live, you might have additional state or local solar incentives and rebates that reduce the price even more. You may even be able to earn extra income by selling your system's solar renewable energy certificates (SRECs).
Even if there are no other incentives where you live, comparing multiple offers from solar companies is important to ensure that you're finding the best deal. Homeowners who register their property on EnergySage save up to 20 percent just by shopping around for the right option for their home.
How much does a 5kW solar system cost in my state?
5 kW solar system price range (2015)
$10,360 – $14,070
$11,865 – $14,875
$11,025 – $14,245
$11,872 – $15,095
District of Columbia (Washington, DC)
$10,386 – $14,583
$8,505 – $11,305
$11,074 – $14,687
$12,460 – $16,240
$10,150 – $13,230
New Jersey
$10,325 – $14,455
New York
$11,270 – $16,030
North Carolina
$10,531 – $14,801
$9,898 – $13,720
$9,835 – $12,705
$12,880 – 16,310
Remember, the cost of solar depends on a lot of factors, so these numbers are just meant to be a starting point. In most cases, you should be able to find a 5kW solar system in this price range – if you receive offers from solar companies that are much higher or lower, be sure to ask follow up questions.
The amount of electricity your solar panels produce depends on many factors, including the direction and angle of your roof. The most important one is how sunny it is where you live – for example, a 5kW system in Las Vegas makes about 30 percent more electricity in a year than one in Philadelphia. That being said, you don't have to live in the Southwest for solar to make sense for you. The cost of electricity where you live is the biggest determinant of your solar savings.
The table below shows average estimated electricity production numbers for 5kW solar energy systems in cities across the U.S. By comparison, the average household in the U.S. uses 911 kilowatt-hours (kWh) a month, which equals 10,932 kWh per year. We estimated these numbers using PV Watts, a tool developed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory.
Solar electricity output of a 5kW solar panel system in U.S. cities
Average daily kWh
Average monthly kWh
Average annual kWh
Austin, TX
Boston, MA
Charlotte, NC
Chicago, IL
Cleveland, OH
Denver, CO
Hartford, CT
Las Vegas, NV
Los Angeles, CA
Miami, FL
New York City
Philadelphia, PA
Phoenix, AZ
Seattle, WA
Washington, DC
Now that you know what to expect, you can ensure that you get the best deal on a 5kW solar energy system by registering your property on the EnergySage Solar Marketplace. Use the comprehensive, easy-to-understand comparison tables to evaluate all of your equipment options, financing offers, and solar company reviews. When you compare multiple solar quotes, you can feel confident that you're making a smart investment in your home.
Vikram Aggarwal is the founder and chief executive of EnergySage, the online solar marketplace. EnergySage simplifies the process of researching and shopping for solar. By offering shoppers more choices and unprecedented levels of transparency, EnergySage allows consumers to select the option that provides the best value for them, quickly and easily. Read all of Vikram's posts here.
All MOTHER EARTH NEWS community bloggers have agreed to follow our Blogging Guidelines, and they are responsible for the accuracy of their posts. To learn more about the author of this post, click on their byline link at the top of the page.
A friend of mine participated in the Second-Annual State of the Electric Utility survey. He also shared with me the results of the 2014 survey, which tabulates the opinions of more than 500 electric-utility professionals on the subjects of demand growth, distributed generation, power supply, regulatory models, and a number of other electricity-generation, transmission, and distribution-related issues.
For those of us interested in solar energy, all the issues are important, but none more so than distributed generation. This is where, for example, a community rooftop solar project provides energy close-at-hand for the community's homes, rather than homeowners buying electricity from an investor-owned utility.
Sounds great, doesn't it? Generating power on-site, instead of buying it from Company A, results in lower costs and fewer inefficiencies, notes one energy firm.
Consumers must agree, because residential or community solar installations in the first three-quarters of 2014 totaled more than 100 megawatts — all without any state incentives!
The loss ratio mentioned above, estimated at up to 6 percent of the total electricity transmitted on average for the entire nation (2012 figures reported in 2014), seems very small, but it depends not only on the age of the lines themselves, but the distance from the generating plants(s) that the electricity has to travel.
In very extensive territories like the Midwest ISO, outliers might experience significant losses in very cold or very hot weather, or when infrastructure is old. In other words, they (and you) pay for electricity that might never reach them.
Fortunately, electricity line losses seem to have dropped across the board since 2012. Of course, so has generation, as commercial and residential energy efficiency measures lighten the electricity load for generators, and more and more homeowners install solar photovoltaic (PV) or solar thermal (hot water) to offset the cringe-making cost of electricity.
Many industry experts feel this is the perfect time to introduce distributed generation in the form of solar energy.
Not only have the cost of solar panels, and installation plummeted, but further reductions are seen for 2016 and beyond, once the numbers are in. In fact, according to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, or NREL – one of 12 U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) labs working on energy, renewable energy, energy storage and the like — solar PV system prices fell below $0.65 per watt in 2016, compared with $0.74 per watt a year ago and $4 per watt in 2008.
Bottom line? That Holy Grail of solar energy – grid parity with fossil fuels — is achieved in several of those states providing solar incentives.
Add net metering and creative financing, and solar now looks like a sure shot to reduce America's dependency on fossil fuels, both foreign and domestic, along with all the pollution (like fracking and shale oil extraction) generated by those fuels.
Most utility executives view solar grid parity and consequent distributed generation as a mixed blessing. In public, they tout it as an opportunity. In private, they discuss the threat to the traditional utility model that it represents, and in boardrooms, that threat — among coal, oil, or even nuclear-centric utilities — becomes the 2,000-pound gorilla of energy generation.
Most agree, however, that utilities should jump on that distributed-energy bandwagon and take a direct role in supplying their ratepayers with same, either via ownership of the panels (and leaseback to customers) or by partnering with companies vested in distributed generation.
Both of these, properly managed, represent modest revenue sources to an industry that has traditionally been viewed as "slow but steady" in terms of financial gain.
Other technologies that make utility executives nervous are demand-side management, or DSM, and energy storage.
The first, which aims to reduce power requirements through efficiency measures, "smart meters", and customer-centric cutbacks rather than building more generating plants, has already succeeded in reducing U.S. electricity demand by 0.9 percent (from 1992 to 2006), and by 1.8 percent over all years.
Energy storage, still in its infancy, has created molten salt (or oil) storage for large solar thermal facilities and lithium batteries for smaller-scale energy storage, but the DOE's labs are busy investigating a number of options and inventions, and will likely come up with some novel advances before the decade is over.
In essence, solar energy's future is clear, and the only way to go is up!
Photo by Flickr/Intel Free Press
Jeanne Roberts is a writer at Understandsolar.com.
According to Green Tech Media (GTM) research, the U.S. is now installing one photovoltaic system every four minutes. Seeing as solar energy is a renewable resource that emits little to no global warming emissions, this is a massive step in the right direction in efforts to protect our planet and reduce greenhouse gases.
If you've already enlisted in the solar energy crusade or are thinking about making an investment in the near future, it's important to do your research and evaluate how to get the most use out of your solar power system. Ensuring that your system is performing at its max is not only important to meet your electricity needs, but also to recover your upfront costs in the shortest amount of time.
To optimize usage, you first need to evaluate how you and your family currently use electricity in the home. One way to do this is by having a professional come out and conduct a home energy audit.
During this process, an expert will come to your home and evaluate how efficiently energy is currently being used, as well as suggest methods for improvement. Inspections should be thorough and review the entire structure, from top to basement. The auditor should check things such as your duct blasts, HVAC system, doors, and windows. These tests will reveal problem areas and ways to improve so you don't end up wasting the valuable solar electricity you'll be generating.
By figuring out how much energy you currently use, you'll also be able to better determine the size of solar system you'll need.
Energy evaluation can help you start thinking differently about certain routines. If you want to get the most of your solar power system and offset your energy costs, start planning ahead by using big appliances during the day when your solar system is operating at its maximum capacity.
Other good practices include setting some appliances to run on timers, replacing old machines with more efficient ones, and staggering usage so you're not running everything at once. This will take some coordination throughout your household, but giving everyone some ownership toward your energy conservation goals can be a rewarding activity and good practice for working together.
Solar technology has become increasingly price competitive in the past few years, making it much more affordable for homeowners to either buy systems out-right, or acquire loans for the project.
If you've just begun the home solar process and are looking to compare prices from local installers in your area, try using a trusted solar power marketplace to receive a number of quotes and find a solution that works best for your solar energy project. It's the quickest way to be able to compare prices and services from companies that are experienced with your solar local programs.
Don't be afraid to ask plenty of questions of solar installer candidates, including their experience connecting customers to the utility grid, knowledge of state incentives, and maintenance programs offered.
If you're connected to the utility grid, you can always draw upon it at night and other times your system isn't producing the most electricity. But to cut this cost, or if you're completely off the grid, solar storage is a great way to offset any energy shortages.
The costs of home energy storage components are starting to fall, making it a more viable option for home solar users. Many states also have beneficial net-metering programs that allow solar generators to return energy to the utility grid and get compensated for it. Rates vary by state, but it's a great way to get the most from the energy produced and start seeing a return on that investment.
Your panels shouldn't require much maintenance or cleaning, but it's a good idea to give them a light cleaning every six months or so. This will help make sure that they're receiving as much light as possible since any collected dust or dirt will just reflect the light and reduce efficiency.
Pay attention to any excessive shading on your panels from nearby greenery, as you may need to alter your landscaping. It's also important to prevent any branches or an accumulation of leaves falling from on your panels, which can lead to damage.
By getting the best price on your solar system, watching and reducing your energy costs, and selling back your excess power, you can be sure that you're getting the most out of your home solar system and feel good about generating clean energy.
Sarah Kezer is passionate about helping others take advantage of the power of solar energy. At 123SolarPower, Sarah assists in answering questions and providing expert information for users to explore their options when it comes to going solar. 123SolarPower connects individuals with the largest network of solar power providers in the U.S. Read all of Sarah's MOTHER EARTH NEWS posts here.
Renewable energy is reducing our dependency on fossil fuels but are there negative consequences for our health?
Can photovoltaic installations have negative health impacts? I am often asked this question by people who want to practice sound ecological citizenry and who also care about the health of their family.
While the negative impact of some common chemicals is at last widely recognized and popular green certifications now reward or demand reduction of chemicals, there is very little discussion about the harmful effects of man-made electrical frequencies or measures that can be taken to reduce exposure.
The jury is still out in the world of industry-sponsored and independent research, but there is a fast-growing segment of the population who feels ill from our ever-increasing use of electricity and wireless frequencies.
While our government agencies, medical associations, and power companies debate the existence of this health threat, the people who are suffering seek safety and relief. Others who are not affected may be wise to employ a precautionary stance, knowing that what overtly harms some may also have negative impacts for all in the long run.
Michael Schwaebe, PE and Building Biologist has installed Dissipative Noise Reduction filter on solar inverters to remediate dirty electricity transmissions caused by the photo voltaic installation.
The Building Biology Institute (IBE) has long paid attention to electromagnetic radiation and has offered comprehensive training on the measurement and remediation of elevated frequencies. IBE has recently published a long-awaited position paper on the electromagnetic radiation issues associated with photovoltaic installations.
The following summary, written by fellow building biologist and co-author of the paper, Sonia Hoglander, outlines areas of concern. Read the full paper: Photovoltaic Electrical Systems: Electromagnetic Exposure Issues & Overview of Configurations.
Photovoltaic systems can have detrimental health effects.
• Inverters cause electrical "noise" called "dirty electricity" on house electrical circuits and appliance cords that can be irritating to sensitive people — even people who have not been conscious of sensitivity in the past could experience discomfort. People have reported symptoms of nausea, headaches, and fatigue.
• Ground current can also be introduced or be exacerbated on surrounding earth, causing magnetic fields that interfere with biological rhythms. Some common symptoms associated with manmade magnetic fields are sleep disturbance and depression.
• Wireless communication may be part of a system allowing billing and monitoring functions. Wireless communication is radiation in the microwave range of the electromagnetic spectrum. This part of the spectrum is linked to cancer. Symptoms from exposure cover a broad range including nausea, headaches, fatigue and sleep disturbance from the dirty electricity and magnetic fields, but also irritability, skin problems, dizziness, visual and hearing disruptions.
• These issues of microwave radiation from wireless signals, dirty electricity, and ground currents are complex electromagnetic factors that affect the home environment and are difficult to mitigate. Hardwired Ethernet connections from a non-wireless electric meter to the homeowner's router and filters can be helpful but the renewable energy industry does not currently design systems with biological effects in mind.
William Holland, post filter installation, testing for SMA inverters, DNA filters above to the left.
The International Institute for Building Biology & Ecology recently published a paper that explains how solar panels affect the electromagnetic environment; causing potentially irritating dirty electricity and ground currents. In summary they state:
"Photovoltaic (PV) power generation systems as well as other alternative energy producing systems (e.g. wind generators and gas power, on-site generators) are not recommended for people who are experiencing electromagnetic sensitivity and especially for people displaying the symptoms of Electromagnetic Hyper-Sensitivity (EHS). Asymptomatic people are cautioned to evaluate all the pros and cons before moving ahead, especially as pertains to the generation of unwanted EMF radiations and effectiveness of filtration options offered by various system purveyors for dealing with these unwanted radiations."
Paula Baker-Laporte, FAIA, is an architect, healthy building consultant, instructor for the International Institute of Building Biology and Ecology and author. She is the principle of EcoNest Architecture. She is primary author of Prescriptions for a Healthy House and co-author with husband Robert Laporte of The EcoNest Home. Connect with Paula on her website, and read all of her MOTHER EARTH NEWS posts here.
Installing a home solar energy system is a smart financial investment for many homeowners. As you evaluate offers from solar companies, there are many different factors to consider – the equipment that you choose for your system, your financing options, and the installer that you select all have an impact on your solar savings. This guide will help you evaluate the different solar panels and inverters available so that you can find the best equipment for your home.
There are two main components to a grid-connected solar energy system: the solar panels themselves, which create electricity from sunlight, and the inverter, which converts the electricity into a form you can use in your home. Some also include a monitoring system, which allows you to see how much power you're creating and using. And while solar batteries haven't yet hit the mainstream, the announcement of Tesla's Powerwall battery and other technologies are making it possible for homeowners to consider incorporating a battery into their system.
You can evaluate solar panels on a few main parameters: production, durability and manufacturer quality.
The amount of electricity a given solar panel can produce will produce is dependent on several factors, including the power rating, power tolerance, efficiency and temperature coefficient. Taken together, these factors will tell you how much power your panel will be able to produce.
You'll also want to look at indicators of panel manufacturer quality. Start with the warranties and assurances that the manufacturer offers on their equipment. Like all things, solar panels degrade and become less efficient over time. Many manufacturers will guarantee that the power production of their panels doesn't fall below a certain threshold over twenty-five years. In addition, many panel manufacturers have a materials warranty in case the panels simply fail.
Most solar panels are very durable, but if you live in an area that has heavy snow or high wind, you should also be sure that the panels you install are designed to withstand the conditions in your area. Look for panels that meet the IEC 61215, a reliability standard established by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). IEC 61215 uses an accelerated outdoor stress test for panels to ensure their durability.
When you evaluate panels on production, durability and manufacturer quality you'll find they break down into categories. EnergySage's ranking system, which takes all of these factors into account, sorts panels into three groups: premium, standard, and economy.
While some homeowners may choose to invest in the highest quality, most efficient "premium" panels, remember that those will come with a higher price tag. Going solar is a lot like buying a car: not everyone needs a Porsche! Conversely, if you want to save by buying cheap solar panels, your system may produce less electricity over its lifetime, reducing your overall savings. Only you know what is best for your home.
It's the job of the inverter in your solar energy system to convert the solar energy into something you can use. Solar panels take solar energy and make it into direct current (DC) power. The inverter's job is to convert that DC power into the alternating current (AC) electricity that can be used in your home.
There are two general types of inverters: string inverters and module-level power electronics (MLPEs). Both microinverters and power optimizers are both MLPEs.
String inverters are the lowest-cost option for a solar energy system. If your system has optimal conditions for production, they are usually a good choice for your home. When your solar panel system has a string inverter, all of your panels feed all of the DC power they produce to a single inverter. The inverter then changes the DC energy to AC power, at which point your solar energy is ready to use.
MLPEs are generally more expensive, but they can also be more efficient. MLPEs are a good choice if your solar energy system may be slightly shaded or can't be installed at the best angle. When you use microinverters, each panel has its own inverter to transform the power it creates and feed it to your house. Power optimizers, like microinverters, are also installed on every panel, but power optimizers are paired with a string inverter. The power optimizer "conditions" the energy, making it easier to convert from DC to AC, at which point it is sent to the main inverter.
Your installer one of the most important parts of your solar energy system! When you choose a solar installer, you should review their certifications, licenses, track record and reputation in the market. A great installer, like those on the EnergySage Solar Marketplace, will also use subcontractors sparingly and warranty their workmanship. Most importantly, a good installer will be an effective partner ready to help you go solar. All of the installers you meet on EnergySage have been vetted and meet our standards for all these variables. Whichever installer you use, don't be afraid to ask questions throughout the installation process.
Vikram Aggarwal is the founder and chief executive of EnergySage, the online solar marketplace. EnergySage simplifies the process of researching and shopping for solar. By offering shoppers more choices and unprecedented levels of transparency, EnergySage allows consumers to select the option that provides the best value for them, quickly and easily. Read all of Vikram's posts here.
Dan Alway (right) and the author
Long-time Great Lakes Renewable Energy Association (GLREA) member Dan Alway passed away September 21, 2015. Dan was a renewable energy pioneer and advocate who worked tirelessly to promote renewable energy. Dan was involved in many things over the years including Kalamazoo Nature Center and a scoutmaster. Dan was honored by more than 600 of his friends and colleagues at an award presentation at The Energy Fair Networking Dinner in Custer, Wisconsin, Thursday, July 16, 2016. There was also a book present for folks to record any memories of him that they would like to write down along with displaying a photo collage.
Mark Klein, longstanding Midwest Renewable Energy Association (MREA) Board Member, Energy Fair founder, and Co-Owner of Gimme Shelter Construction presented the award on Thursday evening.
The Avenue of Advocates award is a tree planted at the main entrance to the annual Energy Fair, which is dedicated to Dan Alway, longtime Energy Fair presenter and renewable energy advocate who passed away this year. The Avenue of Advocates recognizes people or organizations who have shown great leadership in advancing renewable energy and sustainable living.
I, along with long-time friend Richard Seibt accepted the award on Dan's behalf and said a few words about Dan. Here is some of what I tried to say about Dan.
I think the first time I met Dan was at the Energy Fair in 1997, when he was throwing together a basic, off-the-grid system for some lights in the yurt at the Portage County Fairgrounds.
His energy and enthusiasm sucked me right in, and we ended up tinkering/playing with solar for many years after. His fun-loving nature made it easy to ask him to join me in doing presentations about "Living Off Grid, Really?" at the Illinois Energy Fair and the Midwest Energy Fair. He would talk about the trials and tribulations of over 20 years of living off-grid in upstate Michigan (no sun and snow), and I would talk about the same in Southern Illinois (very hot and humid).
We would always tease each other about how crazy we were to live off-grid with so little solar. We were the Two Stooges solar act, and we had so much fun doing our stand-up/sit-down comedy solar talks. In the process, we educated thousands of people over the years about simplifying their lives.
If it wasn't for Dan inspiring me with his wit, I don't know if I could have ever gotten up and talked in front of people. I used to be the shyest person ever, but with Dan's help, I tapped into the fervor of my renewable energy addiction to share and get others addicted. Dan absolutely loved educating anyone, but kids were his best students, as he figured out ways to make his education interactive and fun and, most importantly, relevant.
In a book published in 2009 about The Energy Fai,r I talked about how I kept in touch with Dan and about how he is fun and full of life.
I remember the year he was passing out fusion-powered solar dryers, which came with detailed directions on how they work. The bag consisted of the directions, 25 clothes pins, and a length of clothes line. Yes, he was selling a clothes line. People had such a hoot about them that he sold out and had to go to town to buy additional material to make more.
The last time I saw Dan was at The Energy Fair in June of last year when we did our Living Off Grid, Really!?!? Presentation for more than 200 people, and we gave away a complete, off-the-grid solar system. It was a solar yard light! This was Dan's idea of a great fun joke to give.
GLREA has started the Dan Alway Memorial Scholarship which will be awarded annually to a student entering higher education. You can donate to the Dan Memorial Scholarship fund here.
Read Dan's obituary here. I look forward everyday to the interactions I have on my Living Off Grid, Really!?!? Facebook page and hope you will join the discussion there. Stay energized.
Aur Beck has lived completely off-grid for over 35 years. He has traveled with his family through 24 states and 14,000 recorded miles by horse-drawn wagon. Aur is a presenter at The Climate Reality Project, a fellow addict at Oil Addicts Anonymous International and a talk show co-host at WDBX Community Radio for Southern Illinois 91.1 FM. Find him on the Living Off Grid, Really!?!?Facebook page, and read all of Aur's MOTHER EARTH NEWS posts here.
The advantages of solar energy are continuing to prove themselves for homeowners in the wake of huge declines in upfront costs, proven resale value benefits, as well as national and state tax rebates. Although the benefits of generating free electricity without any harm to the environment is a no brainer, the process of acquiring the right solar system for your home can become a little confusing.
Thanks to professional resources like the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), evaluating your solar power needs and understanding the best type of solutions for your home has never been easier. SEIA has made available several consumer guides to solar power that make it simpler for homeowners to properly evaluate offers (its best to get a number solar power quotes) and fully comprehend your agreement terms.
SEIA's most recent residential consumer guide to solar power outlines several key areas:
There are several options you have when it comes to solar panel installation on your house. The first step will be deciding the type of ownership you want with your system.
If you're looking for the biggest return on investment and have saved up the money, you can buy the system outright. Now is a good time to do so considering that upfront costs have never been lower and electricity from utility providers continue to rise. You can also achieve ownership by securing a loan.
Either option will allow you to reap all of the benefits, like tax credits, and electricity that the system generates. You may also be in charge of maintenance, although some installers offer services on purchased systems.
The second option is to lease a system for a determined period of time and benefit from the electricity generated. In this case, the solar company is responsible for the upkeep and sometimes has zero money down options.
Thirdly, you can pay for the sustainable electricity generated from a solar system without paying for a lease, with a power purchase agreement (PPA). In this case, a system is installed on your home and you purchase the electricity produced from the solar company for a set rate. This gives you the luxury of having no responsibility for the system, generate clean energy, and in most cases pay a lower cost than if you bought electricity from a utility company.
Think about your personal electricity usage and how it's used in your home. You should take a look at your utility bill and how much kilowatt-hours (kWh) your household uses and how much you're currently paying for it. This will help determine the number of panels and output you will need from the system.
You should also check out your roof and get at solar professional come out for an evaluation. They will be able to provide a consolation and calculate the amount of sunlight you're currently getting and if its enough.
Whether you're purchasing, getting a loan, or leasing a system, SEIA stresses the importance of getting several quotes for your solar system. The market has become competitive, which is to the advantage of consumers, but you'll need to weigh the pros and cons of each solar power company to make sure you're getting the best deal.
When using a marketplace like 123SolarPower, you can be assured that the companies are certified and have plenty of experience in your area. However you decide to shop, do your research on potential solar power companies and don't be afraid to ask for references. You can also ask for their proof of licensure and check the BBB for any consumer complaints. Make sure that they are familiar with any tax credits you qualify for through the state or federal government. (Read more about the best states for solar.)
Lastly, make sure you understand the terms of your solar agreement. Contracts are legally binding so make sure you're comfortable with what you'll be receiving and the amount you're paying. Ask plenty of questions and inquire about specifics within the warranty.
You can always use a solar power calculator to determine how much you could be saving each month on your electricity bill. It may seem like a lot, but its important to go with your gut and make sure you're getting the best value for your needs to use solar panels to save the most money you can!
Photo by iStock/gyn9038
Sarah Kezer is passionate about helping others take advantage of the power of solar energy. At 123SolarPower, Sarah assists in answering questions and providing expert information for users to explore their options when it comes to going solar. 123SolarPower connects individuals with the largest network of solar power providers in the U.S. Read all of Sarah's MOTHER EARTH NEWS posts here.
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Text Version
Old Hill Burying Ground
The Powder House in the Old Hill Burying Ground is going to be restored and repaired this fall.
There was a small gathering on Tuesday, August 22, 2006 at 1:30 at 141 Keyes Road to discuss this event. Marion Wheeler was on hand to talk about the history of the gun powder industry in Concord in the1800's. Many other participants also provided information regarding this subject.
The "Powder House" from an old postcard provided by Tish Hopkins
On the hillside overlooking Concord's Monument Square is the oldest of the three cemeteries, the
Old Hill Burying Ground
. With nearly 500 graves, the earliest existing stone is dated 1677.
Old Hill
was the original burying ground for Concord residents after securing their settlement in 1635. The entrance is from Monument Square through the gate between St. Bernard's Church and the "brick-end" house. This site, on a prominent glacial esker, was adjacent to the original location of the First Parish Church. It was on land that could not be farmed, and because of its height, it was the first area to thaw in the spring. This thawing allowed for early burial of those who died during the winter and waited silently for a place in the warm earth.
Of the nearly 500 burial markers in
Old Hill
, the oldest belongs to Joseph Merriam who died April 20, 1677. An interesting gravesite at the very back belongs to John Jack, a former slave who died in 1773. His stone is noteworthy for a poem-like epitaph concluding that John Jack "practiced those virtues without which kings are but slaves." There are many others. Young Orpah Bryant, for example, died in 1798 after only one year but is remembered as being "the joy of her father and the delight of her mother." Of interest, is the grave of Major John Buttrick who led the fight at the North Bridge and died 16 years later, on May 16, 1791. His son, buried in the same family plot, was at the bridge as a fifer.
Old Hill
also contains the graves of 40 other veterans of the Revolution. It is said that Colonel Smith and Major Pitcairn, British commanders on that lively day in April, 1775, chose the
Old Hill
site as their command post, and from there witnessed what would be the beginning of the end of British rule.
(from "Town of Concord and its Historic Cemeteries" brochure - Concord Cemetery Committee/Concord Public Works - March 2001)
Return to Cemetery Home Page
Return to Concord Public Works Home Page


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Tired of the annual holiday hunt for a parking place at the mall and pushing your way through all the shoppers?
Try a gentler, less-frenzied approach this year at least for some of the people on your shopping list. Got gardeners, great or gourmet cooks, seniors or shut-ins to shop for? Need sustainable corporate/business gifts that aren't from a catalog and shipped individually across five states?
Then give some horticultural therapy! It's as close as your local garden center.
Gardening is a chore and anything that makes it easier, faster or less labor intensive is a welcome treat for any gardener. Things as simple as a new pair of gardening gloves or herbal hand lotion go great in a stocking. Would your favorite gardener like more ergonomic tools that he might not buy for himself, but would mean less strain on his back? What about new hand pruners or the smaller version used to dead head flowers? They're practical gadgets and gizmos gardeners love.
• Deliver a no-calorie amaryllis bulb that's ready to grow to clients who probably cringe when yet another box of candy arrives.
• Create an herb garden for your favorite cook. This gift of good taste keeps fresh herbs always at hand. Garden centers usually pot up the plants at no extra charge when you buy the plants and container.
• Give a whimsical fairy garden to a shut-in. Gardening can be enjoyed - and therapeutic - even in a single container.
• Take small flowering plants to residents of a retirement center or nursing home. When even a picture of a landscape has been proven therapeutic in hospitals, just think what a live plant can do!
A fragrant arrangement or centerpiece filled with holiday greens is a thoughtful hostess or corporate gift that says the season. Or an early gift of a natural wreath or garland for the mantel can be a thoughtful touch for a friend who might not buy one herself.
• Are there seniors in your life who can no longer load the lawnmower into the car to take to the service center? A practical gift is to take it to the shop for a full service so the mower is ready to roll come spring.
• Help with holiday lighting. Keep someone, who has no business being on that ladder to string lights, safe by hiring an insured contractor to do the work safely.
• Give a landscape service like a one-time tree pruning, spring yard clean-up or a season of lawn care to someone who loves their nice yard, but can no longer do all the work.
For gift-giving this year, think creatively and sustainably. Plants keep our ongoing connection with Mother Nature alive and growing!
Courtesy Associated Landscape Contractors of Colorado and Neils Lunceford, a landscaping company based in Silverthorne that is a member. You may contact them at (970) 468-0340.


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I'm with you. Rudy all the way!!!
A few faves: The Replacements, Necessary Roughness, Wildcats, WaterBoy, Brian's Song, We are Marshall, and Rudy
By far, The Program is the best football movie ever made. It tackles all the real life issues involved in college football and you also get to see some great football being played too. Close behind would be Varsity Blues and We are Marshall.
Has anyone seen The Express yet? The movie retells the story of 1960s superstar Syracuse running back Ernie Davis, who became the first African American Heisman Trophy winner but died of leukemia before he ever played a professional game.
Here is a link to another thread in fp.tv about the best HIGH SCHOOL football movies: http://community.active.com/message/525515#525515
i love rudy. everytime he opens and reads his letter on the bench by the lake it gives me goosebumps.
i like we are marshall
remember the titans
and friday night lights
Don't forget Facing the Giants! Awesome movie!
My favorites are one many of you may have missed "The Last Season", a terrific documentary about a high school coach's last drive for a state championship before retiring. And two you all have seen; the under-rated "Waterboy" which is way more complex than most people give it credit for and also the biography of many us that have played the game. I'll also second the afore mentioned over-blown, but entertaining "The Program". The old "Paper Lion" was fun; a throwback to a more innocent time. Biggest dissapointment was "Friday Night Lights". Unfortunately, the best football movies have been lost. My old game films. Should have stolen them when I had the chance.
The Express is pretty good, story about Heissman Trophy winner Ernie Davis.
No discussion needed. Rudy, staring a young and very skinny Vince Vaughn. Check it out, he's the reciever who scores the last min TD so Rudy can get back on the field.
ps. Im with ya on The Replacements......go Flaco
Vince Vaughn was Jamie O' Hara who was reemed out by the coach when he said Rudy was 'playing the last practice of the year like it was the super bowl' and he went from third team to scout team. In addition I love the movie ' Little Giants'
No one has mentioned Nick Nolte's "North Dallas 40". I think of that movie every morning when attempting to get out of bed.
By far, The Program is the best football movie ever made.
ACTIVE is the leader in online event registrations from 5k running races and marathons to softball leagues and local events. ACTIVE also makes it easy to learn and prepare for all the things you love to do with expert resources, training plans and fitness calculators.


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Vienna council holds meeting with agencies
February 1, 2013
VIENNA — Vienna City Council members listened to outside agencies in a special meeting Thursday....
i dont know much about vienna politics and i am not a city employee or a shill, i am only a disabled combat veteran but i would like to thank the senior citizens group, they came and picked me up and took me to vote and i am not even a senior citizen i am only 37 but they never hesitated they came and got me in an orderly fashion and after i voted they asked me if i had anywhere else i needed to travel. so i thank them from the bottom of my heart for helping me fulfill the right to vote i helped fight to preserve
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and here they come; out from under their rocks/ kill the messenger BUT again, no one addresses the issues. i appreciate the city employees/ supporters for being up and on their computers this day. as for the feds running the city, they are spending for pet projects like he does so he is represented in spirit if not in fact. i respect anyone's opinion, but when i know people are not allegedly being truthful that is an issue to be addressed.
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He is a bored old man who needs something to complain about.
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Teflon you are amazing. You assume your opinion is better than anyone else's. If someone disagrees with you then they must be either an employee, shill, or council. Maybe they have their own opinion. Also, you never give any proof of any claims to continually make against the city. Also, maybe you would like the federal goverment or Parkersburg to run Vienna for you. We all see how well they have being doing lately.
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so having posted the prior message with a couple of spelling errors, do your assignment and attack the messenger with no addressing the message: the vienna city council does NOT represent the community interests. only the employees, a few special interest groups and themselves.
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this meeting as with past meetings should have been little more than presentations by groups to ask for yearly stipend. one would have to be a city employee to think anyone was "working hard" to do that. would say that with all departments asking for large increases in office supplies year to year; assoctiation dues, pulbications and money for road trips that city has a short fall. more like it has gone nuts. it is quite obvious that the city is spending INTO every available dollar. nothing anywhere yet on salaries, excessive compensation such as health costs ($16-17 thousand per employee per year). for any of the agencies noted as being there last night, any reduction or denial would be hypocritical with all the increases internally. rightfacts, you may have been there, but you are clearly a city employee/ shill or council member. so one would surmise a "dog and pony show".
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It's a good feeling to see a group of elected officals working hard to make a difference in our city.
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A male adult mountain lion has caught the attention of Paradise Road residents where it's been seen in the last week.
One resident was able to take several pictures of the big cat before it disappeared into the woods.
They were taken through a window so the mountain lion would not be disturbed.


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STOCKTON - A woman assaulted officers and tried to take one of their guns when police responded to a report of a disturbance at 5:15 p.m. Thursday at a home in the 5300 block of Carrington Circle, authorities said.
Officers went to the home on a report of a woman assaulting her parents, police said.
When the officers arrived, the woman locked herself in a bathroom. When she unlocked the door, she became combative, kicking and punching officers and trying to take the gun from one of their holsters, police said.
Following the struggle, police arrested Fizza Hasani, 20, on suspicion of battery on a police officer, attempting to take a firearm from an officer and other crimes, authorities said.
Location, ST | website.com


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Christmasfest kicks off December
Published: Saturday, November 17, 2012 at 6:01 a.m.
Last Modified: Saturday, November 17, 2012 at 12:13 a.m.
Ready to celebrate the holiday season?
Christmasfest, Thibodaux's annual event, features a Christmas parade, pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus, refreshments, snow and the lighting of a 160-year-old mansion, the Dansereau House.
The event is scheduled for Dec. 2. The parade will be at 4 p.m.
For information, call Rhonda Dempster at 446-1187, email her at firstname.lastname@example.com or visit www.thibodauxchamber.com.
Reader comments posted to this article may be published in our print edition. All rights reserved. This copyrighted material may not be re-published without permission. Links are encouraged.


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Home > News, Stories & Videos > News
Updated: World Vision is delivering hygiene supplies and Child-Friendly Kits to families affected by the Sichuan earthquake.
Today, World Vision staff began distributing 3,900 hygiene kits and Child-Friendly Kits to families in Ya'an, site of the 6.6-magnitude earthquake that struck China's Sichuan province on Saturday.
"We are worried about the health and well-being of the children who are now homeless," says Victor Kan, national director of World Vision in China. "By providing hygienic kits, we're hoping to help families restore hygienic practices, reducing health risks."
The team plans to provide hygiene kits to survivors hit hardest and assess the physical, psychosocial, and educational needs of children in those areas.
World Vision is also collaborating with government partners to further assist in the response.
Government sources have updated the number of casualties to 200 dead and more than 11,500 injured. The U.N. says at least 1.52 million people in 69 counties are affected.
"We are witnessing mass devastation, homes flattened, children homeless, and livelihoods wiped away," says Meimei Leung, head of World Vision's emergency response team in China. "People are huddled in tents along the roadside, and near the stadium."
More than 245,000 people have been evacuated. Near the quake's epicenter in Lushan County, many houses are made of wood, with earthen walls. Nearly all of them collapsed, the U.N. says, leaving many residents in need of shelter.
World Vision disaster management staff members are coordinating relief with government authorities. We will focus on the needs of children and filling gaps in government aid delivery.
Please pray for families affected by the earthquake, and pray for World Vision staff members and other emergency responders assisting the quake survivors.
Make a one-time donation to World Vision's Disaster Response Fund. Your gift will help us respond quickly and effectively to sudden-onset disasters like the recent China earthquake, providing emergency supplies like life-saving food, clean water, medical supplies, and shelter to survivors.


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Children's Health
Retail Clinics Catch On in U.S.
Sept. 10, 2008 -- If you need non-emergency medical care, where would you go? A physician's office? The emergency room? A retail medical clinic?
That's what researchers from RAND wanted to find out. They are releasing results of a new study that looks at how people use retail clinics, which are sometimes found in drugstores, grocery stores, and large retailers like Wal-Mart.
The research team, led by Ateev Mehrotra, MD, MPH, with RAND and the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, compiled data from nearly a million and a half retail clinic visits.
The researchers note that the study was not funded by retail clinics, nor was anyone paid to provide the data.
They looked for information like gender, age, how the visit was paid for, whether the patient had a primary care physician, whether the patient moved to an emergency room, and what prompted them to go to a retail clinic.
They also looked at separate national data from 35,814 visits to primary care physicians and 147,784 visits to emergency rooms.
Who Uses Retail Clinics?
Among the findings:
- Men and women seem to equally go to retail clinics.
- 18- to 44-year-olds made twice as many visits to retails clinics (43% compared with 23%) as visits to their primary care physician.
- The youngest and oldest patients are least likely to visit retail clinics and more likely to go to a doctor's office or emergency room.
- In 39% of visits, people who went to a retail clinic reported having a primary care physician. (That's compared to 80% of people nationwide who say they have a personal doctor.)
- 2.3% of visits to a retail clinic were triaged to an emergency room or a doctor's office.
"These clinics appear to attract patients who are not routine users of the current health care system," Mehrotra says in a news release. "For these patients, the convenience offered by retail clinics may be more important than the continuity provided by a personal physician."
Retail Clinic Payments
More retail clinic visits were paid for out of pocket when compared with payment for primary care physicians. But the study findings reflect that may be changing.
The first retail clinic opened in the U.S. in 2000. The researchers found that 100% of visits were paid out of pocket in 2000. But in 2007, 16% of retail clinic visits were paid for out of pocket.


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|by Kevin E. Schmiesing
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Water department rescinds boil water advisory
Published: Friday, November 15, 2013 at 11:31 a.m.
Last Modified: Friday, November 15, 2013 at 11:31 a.m.
A water main break that affected service to about 300 Hendersonville water customers Thursday has been repaired, city Utilities Director Lee Smith reported Friday morning, and a boil water advisory has been canceled.
The large water line on Spartanburg Highway near Upward Road was accidentally cut by a contractor Thursday morning. Repairs were completed Thursday night.
"The line is back together and we're moving water," Smith said. "Everyone who didn't have water yesterday has water now."
Low water pressure increases the risk of bacterial contamination, and customers in the affected area were asked to vigorously boil for one minute all water used for human consumption. At about 6 p.m. Friday, the Water and Sewer Department said boiling water was no longer necessary based on a laboratory analysis of water samples collected from the city's water distribution system inside the affected area.
Reader comments posted to this article may be published in our print edition. All rights reserved. This copyrighted material may not be re-published without permission. Links are encouraged.


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AXIS Q1910/-E Thermal Network Cameras are a perfect complement to any network video system that needs to secure an area 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The cameras use thermal imaging, which allows users to detect people, objects and incidents in complete darkness and difficult conditions such as smoke, haze, dust and light fog.
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What are you drinking these days? If you're like the growing number of people enjoying the rising popularity of craft beer, perhaps you're enjoying a light and sunny kolsch on the back deck. Those with a passion for hops might be sipping a double IPA, and those with a more adventurous palate might be sampling a Rocky Mountain Oyster Stout (yes, it does exist). Whatever the flavor, craft beer has been enjoying a renaissance in recent years.
As of the end of June, more than 3,000 breweries were operating across the United States.
"This represents a return to the localization of beer production, with almost 99 percent of the 3,040 breweries being small and independent," wrote Bart Watson, chief economist for the Brewers Association in a recent article. "The majority of Americans live within 10 miles of a local brewery."
Even though those numbers seem to point to larger cities like Denver and Boulder, in the Vail Valley, that distance is not too far off. There are two breweries in Edwards (about 16 miles from Vail); for those living in Eagle, there are two breweries to make the "10 mile" statistic accurate.
Of those four breweries, three have been open for five years or less. However, Gore Range Brewery in Edwards will celebrate its 17th anniversary in December.
"I've seen a lot of change with the whole craft beer scene," said Jeremy Pluck, head brewer at Gore Range Brewery. Pluck has been working as the brewer at Gore Range since it opened in 1997. "I think it starts with the adventurousness of the beer drinking public. It took a bit of time for the whole craft beer movement to gain some traction, but when people discover the flavor diversity and complexity, then they tend to get into it. You can't go back to drinking bland beer."
Creativity from the tap
That's one of the beauties of craft beer. The industry itself thrives on creativity and every brewer has his or her own style and perspective on flavor. The Mountain Livin' Pale Ale at Crazy Mountain Brewing Co. in Edwards tastes very different from the Kindler Pale Ale at Bonfire Brewing in Eagle and still different than the World's Greatest Pale Ale (named for a mountain-bike trail, not an overabundance of self-confidence on the part of the brewer) at new 7 Hermits Brewing Co. in Eagle.
"I think that people are seeking out the diversity of flavors. They want to try different beers and people seem to want stuff they can't get elsewhere," Pluck said. "When they're coming into our area, they want to check out the local beer. When they go back home, they can't get that beer. It becomes a missed opportunity if they don't come and check it out."
Case in point: sitting at the bar at Gore Range Brewery on Friday evening was a couple from Austin, Texas. They had come up from Denver for the day and, when asked what had brought them to Edwards, the man explained, "We're on a bit of a brewery tour; we wanted to check out the breweries up here."
With the plethora of options in Denver, this couple decided to drive to Edwards to sample the opportunities a bit further afield — options that are smaller and more locally focused. They're not alone.
Uber local
Most of the new breweries in the U.S. are operating in neighborhoods and towns and tend to be operating on a smaller scale and are locally centered. This hearkens back to the heyday of the 1800s: There were 4,131 breweries operating in 1873, and they were largely local.
The newest neighborhood brewery in Eagle County, 7 Hermits, has the neighborhood spirit in spades. Located in Eagle Ranch, 7 Hermits has an industrial aesthetic in the decor, but the feel of the place is far from mechanized. On a typical evening, a few folks sit at the bar while others occupy the high-top tables, pint glasses in hand.
Currently serving seven different beers, 7 Hermits started with what could be classified as an epiphany, according to brewer Matt Marple.
"It was not in my mind to do a brewery," Marple said. A home brewer for many years, Marple got his first sip of success at a brewing competition hosted by Mountain Beverage. Out of his four entries, three took top prizes, with one receiving the grand prize. But it took a special beer for Marple to (literally) taste the possibility.
"It was when we made Paul, our imperial IPA. It was one of those moments in the garage when we were standing there, smelling it and for 10 minutes, we couldn't get over the smell of it," explained Marple. "It was like a 'light coming down from above' moment, and we tasted it and we looked at each other and we said, 'That's the beer. We could actually build a brewery on that beer.'"
The brewery has been open for almost six months now, and Marple said that it has done no advertising.
"Everything has been word of mouth," he said. "We're mostly just living off of our local community at the moment."
That might change in the near future as he prepares to go into distribution. However, don't expect the local feel and focus of 7 Hermits to alter. Marple understands his clientele and knows what they like.
They don't like change.
When Marple tweaked his Gold Dust Lemon Blonde, the feedback was almost instantaneous — the customers wanted the previous recipe.
"It was a small change, and it was closer to what I originally wanted," explained Marple. "But they loved the first batch so much that I got pushed back into going back to the first recipe. I have die-hards, and that's all they drink."
Still growing
New breweries are popping up like forest mushrooms in cities of all sizes around the country, and it doesn't seem as if craft beer is approaching the top of the bubble. Of the nationwide growth in breweries, there has been a 22.6 percent increase in regional craft breweries, a 22.8 percent increase in microbreweries and a 7.1 percent increase in brewpubs. Large, non-craft breweries showed no growth at all.
"I've been in the brewing industry for close to two decades now. It's amazing where it's gone and how much attention it has been getting lately," Pluck said. "It's great. A high tide floats all boats. We want to see more good beer out there; it's good for the industry."
So get out and explore the beer world that's right here in our valley — there are plenty of options to please your palate.


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"I THINK it's the sheep effect," says Carlo Hansen, co-owner of Riverside Kawasaki in Somerville, Mass. "Everybody is scared at the same time. All the news is bad."
Hansen is referring to the nationwide credit crunch. He says even his local credit unions are spooked. One of them is not accepting any applicant with a score below 650 whereas before it would go down to 580.
"We changed our whole ordering structure," Hansen says. "We order mostly smaller bikes now. I'm so scared."
And Hansen doesn't scare easily. He's a 40-year industry veteran who also sells Yamaha, Ducati, Triumph and a couple of minor brands. Like many dealers, he's feeling the frustration of having to turn customers away because of tighter standards and fewer lenders.
Down payments, co-signers, invoice approvals — all have increased in number. Lenders are asking for more things to be submitted in the funding packets. "They're getting very, very picky, and it's going to be a major problem next year," Hansen says.
Even scarier is that many experts are describing the credit crunch as mostly an affair among banks and businesses. Some of these same experts predict consumer credit cards will be the next big crisis. Things could get worse. (Continued)