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There Goes the Sun
There Goes the Sun On the verge of solar maximum, the August 11, 1999
solar eclipse promises to dazzle millions in the path of totality.
"There is nothing in the whole of Nature to rival
the glory of a total eclipse of the Sun."
Michael Maunder & Patrick Moore, 1998, The Sun in Eclipse
August 5, 1999: On August 11, 1999, millions of people in the Northern Hemisphere will have one last chance in this millennium to marvel at a total solar eclipse. The 50 mile wide path of totality will extend from the western Atlantic ocean, through Europe and Turkey, all the way across India into the Indian Ocean. At the instant of totality viewers situated along this narrow path can glimpse some of Nature's rarest wonders -- "Bailey's Beads," the "Diamond Ring," mysterious shadow bands, and, of course, the Sun's ephemeral corona.
Above: One frame from a 159 KB Quicktime Animation of the Moon's shadow sweeping across Earth during a total solar eclipse. Credit: Digital Radiance. Note that this animation is intended to illustrate the basic features of Solar eclipses and is not to scale.
Solar eclipses happen when the new Moon passes in front of the Sun. They don't take place every month because of the tilt of the Moon's orbit. The Moon's orbit around the earth is slightly elliptical, as is the earth's orbit around the Sun. Therefore, the Moon and the Sun do not always appear to be precisely the same size in the sky. The Moon's diameter ranges from 29.3 to 33.5 arcminutes while the Sun's diameter may be anywhere between 31.5 to 32.5 arcminutes. About once a year (on average) when the Moon passes directly in front of the Sun, and the Moon is the same size or larger than the Sun, we have a total eclipse somewhere on Earth.
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This year's total eclipse on August 11, 1999 could be even better than usual, thanks to the solar maximum. Every 11 years the sun undergoes a period of heightened activity. There are frequent solar flares, lots of sunspots, and the corona expands to many times its average size. The August 11 solar eclipse will take place just 9 months before the predicted maximum in mid-2000. Even now the Sun is very active, raising expectations for an unusually beautiful eclipse.
Seeing the Sights
Most eclipse watchers consider the corona to be the most beautiful
of all the phenomena of totality. The super-hot outer atmosphere
of the sun glows with the intensity of the full moon when the
sun's disk is completely occulted. Pearly white coronal streamers
sometimes stretch several degrees across the sky during eclipses
near a solar maximum.
Left: The August 11, 1999 solar eclipse will be visible throughout much of Europe, Pakistan, India, northeast North America and parts of Asia in the Northern Hemisphere. The path of totality is indicated by the yellow and blue line. Credit: F. Espenak, GSFC/ NASA
Second only to the corona for dramatic impact, by some accounts, is the Moon's shadow. As totality approaches the shadow can be seen sweeping across the landscape at over 1000 miles per hour. According to Michael Maunder and Patrick Moore, in their book The Sun in Eclipse, "It...gives the impression of a vast dark cloak rushing toward you and then enveloping you: the general effect can only be described as eerie." Sometimes, as the Moon's shadow approaches, "shadow bands" can be seen. These are poorly understood, wavy lines of alternating shadow and light somewhat like the ripples on the bottom of a swimming pool.
The swift arrival of the Moon's shadow transforms the landscape. The darkness of totality resembles nighttime, and plants and animals react accordingly. Birds stop singing and may go to roost. Daytime flower blossoms begin to close as if for the night. The temperature drops in the coolness of the Moon's shadow. All of Nature seems to pause for this brief moment of daytime darkness.
There is a special quality to the darkness of a total eclipse. The sky near the horizon still appears bright, and this distant scattered light produces a slight reddish glow and unusual shadow effects. Because the direct light of the Sun is blocked, some of the brighter stars and planets become visible. Because this year's eclipse occurs just one day before the peak of the Perseid meteor shower, sky watchers may also see some rare daytime meteors.
The duration
of totality varies depending on the eclipse and the viewing site.
On August 11, 1999, the maximum duration will be 2 minutes 22
seconds for observers in south-central Romania. One of the longest
eclipses on record will take place in 2009
when the "moment" of totality will endure for over
6 minutes as seen from a spot in the Pacific Ocean.
Right: Just before the Moon completely covers the Sun tiny specks of light called "Bailey's Beads" appear. Caused by sunlight shining through valleys on the edge of the Moon, these points of light are spaced irregularly around the disappearing edge of the Sun, forming the appearance of a string of beads around the dark disk of the Moon. Bailey's beads make their brief appearance up to 15 seconds before totality. When a single point of sunlight remains, a beautiful "diamond ring" effect is created against the outline of the Moon. This final sparkling instant signals the arrival of the moon's shadow. Bailey's Beads and the Diamond ring are seen again in reverse order at the end of totality when the Moon moves away from the Sun. During totality colorful prominences and the reddish chromosphere are also frequently visible. The animation pictured here is based on art by Duane Hilton.
It's beautiful, but is it good for anything?
Thursday's Classroom
for lesson plans and activities related to the August 11, 1999 total solar eclipse.
Today, with space telescopes and modern coronagraphs it is sometimes thought that eclipses have little to offer in the way of science. This is not so.
To limit the scattering of sunlight, space-borne coronagraphs have had to block out the inner corona, and ground-based observations of the corona (excluding eclipses) cannot see the corona very far from the Sun. The Moon is still Nature's greatest coronagraph!
Eclipses are also unbeatable ways to precisely measure the Sun's diameter. Members of the IOTA routinely travel to solar eclipses which they observe near the edge of the path of totality. By stretching a team of observers perpendicular to the expected edge of the shadow's path they are able to measure the location of the edge with a precision to less than 100 meters. This translates into a measurement of the Sun's diameter with a precision of only 0.004 arcseconds, or 20 miles. According to such measurements, the Sun may have been 0.4 arcseconds larger in 1983 than it was in 1979. Is the Sun oscillating? It's too soon to say. Some of the eclipse measurements are controversial, and more data are needed. IOTA members will be on hand for the August 11, 1999 eclipse and they intend to continue their work during future eclipses as well.
Some of the most fascinating eclipse research has nothing to do with astronomy. Biologists and zoologists sometimes use eclipses to study the circadian rhythms of living creatures. Between 1954 and 1975, two Polish zoologists, R. Wojtusiak and Z. Majlert, conducted a unique set of experiments in which they observed the behavior of mammals, birds, and insects during seven eclipses with varying degrees of coverage, including totality. They discovered that the daily habits of mammals were little affected by the eclipse, but that birds and especially insects were influenced. Under the Moon's shadow, many species of birds manifested anxiety and roosting behavior, and nearly all birds stopped singing (which contributes to the oft-noted quietude of totality). Insects are affected even more. During eclipses studied by the Polish team, bees returned to their hives en mass, nocturnal moths appeared, and butterflies settled in the grass as though it were night. The most sensitive species, bees, have been observed to return to their hives during partial eclipses covering only 19% of the Sun!
Other biologists have followed the ground-breaking experiments of the Polish team with observations that confirm the influence of eclipses on the behavior of birds, insects, and even nematodes and plankton! More information about these studies can be found in J.B. Zirker's book, Total Eclipses of the Sun.
There are many other research applications of solar eclipses, including global gravity measurements, investigations of ionization and radio propagation in Earth's atmosphere and studies of asteroid dust and cometary debris in the innermost solar system. The full range of research opportunities presented by a solar eclipse is too broad to review here. Suffice it to say that solar eclipses promise great value to scientific research for many, many years to come.
Eclipses on other planets
If the Moon were slightly smaller than the Sun, the best eclipses
would be annular ones with no dramatic corona or blackening of
the daytime sky. If the Moon were slightly larger, the full glory
of the chromosphere and prominences surrounded by the glowing
corona would be lost. Fortunately, the Moon is "just right."
Earth is the only planet in the solar system with spectacular solar eclipses. Thanks to an apparently improbable coincidence, the Sun and the Moon are almost exactly the same size as seen from Earth. The Sun is 400 times larger than the Moon, but it is also 400 times farther away. The table below, adapted from The Sun in Eclipse by Maunder and Moore, shows that there is no other planet where the angular diameter of a satellite is so close to that of the Sun. The most interesting case may be Jupiter's moon Amalthea, which subtends an angle of 7' 24" as seen from the cloud tops of Jupiter, and where the sun is nearly the same size at 6' 09". Still the sizes of Amalthea and the Sun are quite different compared to the similarity between the angular sizes of the Sun and our own satellite. Another interesting case, noted by Maunder and Moore, is that of Mars's satellite Phobos, which subtends an angle up to 12.3 arcminutes as seen from the surface of the red planet. Phobos transits the Sun about 1300 times in every Martian year and each time it does there would be a hole in the middle of the 21' Sun near "totality." Maunder & Moore argue that the novelty of such a sight would soon wear off for future Martian colonists because it happens so frequently.
|As seen from
|Apparent diameter
|approx. 12'
|approx. 2'
|6' 9"
|7' 24"
|35' 40"
|17' 30"
|13' 06"
|9' 30"
|3' 22"
|10' 54"
|10' 36"
|17' 36"
|12' 24"
|10' 42"
|17' 10"
|1' 41"
|17' 54"
|20' 54"
|14' 12"
|15' 00"
|9' 48"
|1' 04"
|26' 13"
|Based on data from Chapter 14 (pp 183-184) of The Sun in Eclipse by Michael Maunder and Patrick Moore.
Left: A total solar eclipse, with the Sun's corona, clearly visible surrounding the Moon. This picture is a composite of differently exposed photos of an eclipse that occurred on July 11, 1991. Credit: Steve Albers, Dennis di Cicco (Sky & Telescope Magazine), Gary Emerson (E. E. Barnard Obs.) Copyright: Steve Albers. Image courtesy Astronomy Picture Of the Day.
It has often been asked if the similarity of the Moon's and
Sun's diameters can be simple coincidence. In the absence of
more data about the statistical distribution of sizes of stars,
planets, and moons in solar systems other than our own, it would
seem that the most likely answer is "yes." Nevertheless,
it is a fortunate coincidence for the denizens of Earth.
For more information about the August 11, 1999 solar eclipse, please see Goddard Space Flight Center's Solar Eclipse home page.
Audio eclipse may fill the sky - August 4, 1999 story on investigations of ionization and radio propagation in Earth's atmosphere during the eclipse
Peering through a Hole in the Sky - June 17, 1999 story on exotic gravity measurements to be carried out during the eclipse
The Millennium's Last Solar Eclipse -- from Sky &Telescope
Solar Eclipse Home Page -- at the NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center
Total Eclipses of the Sun, J.B. Zirker, 1995, Princeton University Press
The Sun in Eclipse, Michael Maunder and Patrick Moore, 1998, Springer-Verlag
Totality: Eclipses of the Sun, Mark Littmann, Ken Willcox and Fred Espanek, 1999, Oxford University Press
Join our growing list of subscribers - sign up for our express news delivery and you will receive a mail message every time we post a new story!!!
return to Space Science News Home
For more information, please contact:
Dr. John M. Horack , Director of Science Communications
Author: Dr.
Tony Phillips
Curator: Linda Porter
NASA Official: Ron Koczor


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BSC Alerts
News & Events
March 20, 2008
Members Present: Mr. John Shott, Ms. Gloria Stephens, Mr. Larry Morhous, The Rev. James Palmer, III, Dr. Lyn Guy, Mr. Daniel Frost, Ms. Angie Lambert
Member Absent: Mr. Jeffrey Forlines, Mr. Norris Kantor, Ms. Anne Crowe, Ms. Ashley Froy, Mr. Sylvester Myers
Guests/Staff Present: Dr. Albert Walker, Mr. John Cardwell, Mr. Jim Nelson, Ms. Shelia Johnson, Dr. Tracey Anderson, Ms. Karen Harvey, Ms. Leah Taylor, Ms. Anita Barilla, Mr. Gerald James, Dr. Bernadette Dragich, Ms. Deirdre Guyton, Ms. Lisa Neel
Call to Order – Chairman James Palmer III
Chairman James Palmer called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. in the Bluefield State College Othello Harris-Jefferson Student Center Private Dining Room.
Approval of Minutes – February 21, 2008 Meeting
Mr. Palmer asked for corrections or a motion to approve the February 21, 2008 Board of Governors minutes. Mr. Frost asked that the minutes reflect that "classified employees were assured that no downgrades in salaries will occur because of the split of the two institutions." He also asked that the word "detrimental" be changed to "hindrance." He stated that the accreditation is hindering BSC from offering courses from the Business program on the Greenbrier campus. A motion was made to approve the minutes with the corrections noted (LGuy/LMorhous). Motion carried.
President's Report – Dr. Albert L. Walker
- Dr. Walker called the group's attention to an article written by Dr. Brian Noland, Chancellor HEPC, entitled Charting the Future for Higher Education in West Virginia.
- 2007-2008 Special Presidential Goals – Second Quarter Report March 2008- Dr. Walker informed the group that an error was made in the original document distributed earlier in the BOG packets.
- Dr. Walker introduced Mr. Gerald James to discuss the MountainView Student Residence and Conference Center (former Upper-Classman II). Mr. James informed the group that there will be a grand opening held on March 25, 2008. He updated the group on improvements to the facility, the total number of students housed there, and the improvements to the kitchen, and upgraded security cameras. The sign has been changed and will be unveiled at the grand opening.
- Mr. Jim Nelson reviewed the various legislative bills that may affect higher education. Discussion followed.
Financial and Administrative Affairs – Ms. Shelia Johnson
- Ms. Johnson reviewed the Financial Report included in the group's packet and discussed various pieces of information.
- Ms. Johnson informed the group that Governor Manchin's proposed budget included the additional $952,000 added to BSC's base budget. However, the Governor is enacting his line item veto powers and the budget has not been signed.
Capital Projects – BSC is included in the High Priority Capital projects. Ms. Johnson reviewed the various allocations for BSC in this document.
- Fire Alarm upgrades.
- Elevator upgrade in Mahood.
- Heating and cooling upgrades.
- Energy assessment.
Tuition and Fees
- Ms. Johnson called the group's attention to the packet with the BSC Budget Committee's recommendations. Ms. Johnson reviewed the information with the group and discussed the various requests for increased fees from the campus community. Ms. Johnson also reviewed the increases in various utilities and BANNER costs. The Budget Committee has recommended a 5% increase in tuition and fees. However, Ms. Johnson informed the group that due to several factors to which the Budget Committee did not have access at the time of the meeting, she is requesting an increase of 7.23%. Discussion followed. The motion was made (LMorhous/LGuy) to increase tuition and fees by 7.23%. Motion carried.
- Ms. Johnson recommended an increase in the non-resident fees to 5% and the metro fee to 5.22% which is slightly more than the in-state and less than the out-of-state. Motion was made (LGuy/LMorhous) to accept the recommendation. Motion carried.
- Modification of Border County Tuition and Fees Proposal - Mr. Cardwell called the group's attention to the Proposal to Modify the Current Border County Tuition and Fees received earlier in the BOG packet and reviewed the information. He explained that this modification would enhance and expand the border county tuition opportunities to several Virginia counties and surrounding areas. Discussion followed. A motion was made (LGuy/DFrost) to accept the proposal. Motion carried.
Student Affairs and Enrollment Management – Mr. John Cardwell
- Early registration for summer and fall terms will begin on Monday, March 24, 2008.
- Mr. Cardwell reported that the fall and spring recruiting term has been very successful and the quality of potential students is well above those in the past. This increases the opportunity for better retention and graduation rates.
- Spring student enrollment is 1,770 at this time. Last year's spring enrollment was 1,745. Articulations will be done with community colleges in the expanded border regions which will increase enrollment for the fall term.
Institutional Research and Effectiveness – Dr. Tracey Anderson
- Strategic Plan Update – Dr. Anderson reported that the committee continues to meet but has broken into smaller groups to work on goals. HB3215 will require institutional master plans and compacts to focus on achieving the State goals, objectives and priorities. Dr. Anderson stated that the group has started looking at the Master Plan and the Compact Reporting Element from HEPC so that these may be addressed in the BSC Strategic Plan.
- Dr. Walker announced that several personnel will be attending the Higher Learning Commission's Conference on Accreditation on April 12-14, 2008 in preparation of the 2012 accreditation visit to Bluefield State College. The Strategic Plan is very important to the overall accreditation to the institution.
Human Resources – Ms. Leah Taylor
Ms. Taylor informed the group that the end of the 30 day comment for the Bookstore Return Policy #45 will be in the middle of the week. She asked that the group approve the policy so the policy may go into effect by April 1, 2008. A motion was made (DFrost/LGuy) to accept the Bookstore Return Policy #45. Motion carried.
Institutional Advancement and Planning – Ms. Karen Harvey
- Gala/Auction – Ms. Harvey thanked all employees who helped to make the auction a success. Final amount raised at the auction was $15,438. Of this amount, $10, 737.94 will go into the BSC Foundation Unrestricted Annual Fund. Dr. Walker informed the group that this function strengthened the relationship between BSC and the community.
- Neighborhood Investment Program has been renewed through the year 2011 and has been given an additional $500,000. The entire amount of money available for the NIP is $2,500,000. From March 5 through April 1 gifts may not be solicited. After this period $8,000 credits are still to be distributed.
Executive Session
A motion was made (LMorhous/DFrost) to go into executive session at 8:49 p.m. Motion carried.
A motion was made (DFrost/LGuy) to return to regular session at 9:18 p.m. Motion carried.
Ms. Angie Lambert distributed material showing the most recent data from the "Chronicle of Higher Education" on salary increases across the nation and reviewed the information with the group.
Next Meeting Date – April 17, 2008.
With no further business to discuss, a motion was made (DFrost/LGuy) to adjourn the meeting at 9:21 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,

subset: commoncrawl


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text:
Hope all of you are approaching the second half of the school year with the same vigor that you did back in August and September.
If you haven't already heard today, the State Board Thursday approved the Fiscal Year 2005 elementary and secondary education budget recommendation. I am proud of the recommendation. I say that because it represents concerns expressed by so many of you over the past several months.
The FY05 proposal includes a $609 million General Funds increase over the FY04 elementary and secondary education appropriation, of which 87 percent or $576.6 million alone supports adequate basic education and full funding of programs that the state requires districts provide.
The FY05 recommendation includes:
· A $250 per pupil increase of general state aid, which equals $396.5 million.
· Restoring the School Safety and Educational Improvement (ADA) Block Grant to its FY03 level of $66.9 million, an increase of $24 million.
· An additional $139.1 million to fully fund the state Mandated Categorical grants including special education and transportation.
· A $13.3 million increase for the Bilingual program to increase the proration from 64% to approximately 75%.
· Restoration of $19 million for Gifted Education.
· $30 million for Early Childhood.
· $23.7 million for Bridges Extended Learning Opportunities (formerly known as Summer Bridges).
· Additional
increases include: $2.6 million for
The $250 GSA increase represents the State Board's second down payment of the phase-in plan geared toward meeting the foundation level recommended by the Education Funding Advisory Board and agreed to by the Governor.
The recommendation is necessary especially when considering negative reviews of the state's funding inequity including:
The FY05 budget recommendation will begin to help schools
address these basic finance and equity issues. We hope that your concerns have
been addressed in this proposal. I believe the board struck a balance by continuing
the $250 per pupil increase of General State Aid, Restoration of the
It is important to note that more than 99.99% of the $7.6 billion FY04 education appropriation goes directly to the state's 891 locally controlled school districts. After continued reduction of personnel and operations, this proposal includes no increased administrative costs at the Illinois State Board of Education.
The complete FY05 budget news release and related documents are available at http://www.isbe.net/news/2004/jan08-04.htm
We have other additional news to report to you this week. I hope that this message finds you well and appreciate your continued support.
Robert Schiller
State Superintendent
of Education
Also in today's message:
2003 Test Data Verification
As we are well aware, this year was our first experience with calculating Adequate Yearly Progress, including test participation rates. Many districts experienced difficulty providing accurate information with regard to student groups, enrollment dates, etc. In the January 7 issue of Education Week, a cover story outlines the ways states across the nation have experienced similar difficulties this first year. We have already begun working with 450 schools to verify student data and update our data files.
In addition to the 450 schools mentioned above, several districts have requested additional appeals of their 2003 data. We have reviewed all these requests. Districts who have requested appeals will be notified of how to submit data verification forms within the next week or so.
We are still accepting requests from districts for data verification and corrections until March 1. This will allow ISBE to process all data prior to the 2004 state testing dates.
To request data verification forms, send your request on district letterhead to:
Planning &
ATTN: Data Verification
You may also send an e-mail with the same request to email@example.com.
Be sure to include the names of the schools in your district for which data verification is being requested, and describe the types of data you would like to correct.
Looking Ahead to 2004 Testing – "An Ounce of Prevention"
Upon thorough review of the 2003 data collection process, we have concluded that overwhelmingly, the greatest difficulty occurred in the coding of student data in two places: on the test forms, either through pre-ordered labels or through hand-coding, and on enrollment forms that tell the state how many students in which groups were enrolled on the first day of testing. These two pieces of information form the basis for calculating test participation rates. The percent participation is the number of tests divided by the number of students enrolled, in each group and in total.
ISBE is making several important modifications to improve the accuracy of school data for the 2004 test cycle and beyond. These include:
Pre-ordering student test labels: Currently this is a voluntary process in which school districts may order test labels in advance, complete with bar-coding of student information and a checklist to review. We are encouraging ALL districts to take advantage of this opportunity. The deadline for ISAT and IMAGE label orders is February 7th; for PSAE the deadline is February 23rd. For 2005 and beyond, pre-orders for test labels will be required for all districts.
Student enrollment data: Districts submit information about the students that are enrolled on the first day of testing. For the first time this year, enrollment data will be submitted electronically. The on-line enrollment form will include an automatic check for internal consistency; that is, any incomplete or inconsistently coded forms will not be accepted by the system until they are corrected.
Data Reporting: ISBE will return test participation data to districts in early June, more than a month before actual test data is returned. This report will include percent tested, percent not tested, and participation rates for each student group and overall. Detailed reports will be provided along with instructions for corrections as needed. ISBE will "red flag" any problem areas. Districts will have a July deadline for submitting corrections.
Performance Results and AYP: ISBE will return test performance results in late July, so that districts can determine if any additional corrections are warranted. Also at that time, ISBE will provide districts with preliminary Adequate Yearly Progress calculations, which can serve as a final "red flag" for possible data errors. Districts will again have a set deadline for submitting corrections.
ISBE will distribute more detailed materials to districts that clearly explain each step and how to check for data accuracy throughout the process. We look forward to partnering with school districts to streamline the process and increase our accuracy in the coming year.
Advance Notice of 2004-05 Test Dates
In order to facilitate earlier reporting of state assessment results, the following test dates have been established for the 2004-05 school year:
The assessment website will be updated immediately to reflect these changes.
Spaces Available on Due Process Screening Committee
The Illinois Due Process Screening Committee is seeking applications for individuals interested in becoming hearing officers as required by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Application materials are available on-line at:
Applications will be accepted through
Invitation to Comment on Rules
At its December meeting, the State Board of Education released four sets of proposed amendments for public comment. These rulemaking items have been posted on the agency's web site at www.isbe.net/rules; choose "Proposed Rules and Amendments". Please submit any comments or suggestions you may have to firstname.lastname@example.com.
Part 25 (Certification)
This rulemaking encompasses a number of aspects of certification policy. Salient among these are the proposed new requirements for issuing and endorsing teaching certificates. These reflect a new structure of endorsements; the need for endorsements to be congruent with the requirements for highly qualified teachers under federal legislation; and the transition to a standards-based system of credentials. Comparable updates and clarifications are being made in the portions of the rules that describe requirements for the school service personnel certificate and the administrative certificate. New Section 25.365 (Director of Special Education) does not represent new policy; it contains material that is being moved from its current location in Part 29 of the State Board's rules (Standards for Administrative Certification) for organization reasons.
The proposed amendments also respond to three pieces of legislation enacted in 2003.
· P.A. 93-112 established requirements for speech-language pathologists to receive the school service personnel certificate. These are reflected in new Section 25.252.
· P.A. 93-125 liberalized the previous requirement that school counselors hold or be qualified to hold a teaching certificate. An individual may now qualify as a school counselor either by holding teaching qualifications or by meeting "such other requirements as the State Board of Education and the State Teacher Certification Board may by rule establish". Provisions for non-teacher candidates are found in new Sections 25.225 and 25.227.
· P.A. 93-332 discusses the acceptance of life experience as part of the qualifications for paraprofessionals. Section 25.510 responds to this new Act as well as delineating requirements for paraprofessionals in programs affected by federal Title I. Material regarding the use of other non-certificated individuals is reorganized.
In addition, several technical and procedural changes are being made in the rules for accreditation of educational units and approval of higher education programs that prepare educators; numerous outdated rules are being repealed. The rules for the Illinois Teaching Excellence Program are being amended to deal with cases of insufficient appropriation. A new Section 25.464 is being added to account for districts' inability to fill vacant positions with fully qualified staff. Potential conflicts of interest in procedures for certificate renewal are addressed. Finally, several clarifications are made in the requirements for moving from the initial to the standard certificate.
Deadline for Public Comment:
Part 27 (Standards for Certification in Specific Teaching Fields)
This rulemaking will accomplish two technical corrections, one in the common core of standards for science (Section 27.140) and the other in the common core of standards for social science (Section 27.200).
In Section 27.140(j)(2)(A), a performance indicator is being expanded to reflect the original intent of the drafters of these standards.
Section 27.200(q)(2)(D) requires the competent social science teacher to "describe the effect of globalization of the world economy since 1500 CE." However, the reference "AD" is used in several places in the history standards set forth in Section 27.230 of these rules. The Joint Committee on Administrative rules requested the agency to revise Section 27.200(q)(2)(D) for the sake of consistency when an opportunity arose to do so.
"BCE" and "CE" (which stand for "Before the Common Era" and "Common Era") are gaining currency, particularly within higher education. The most productive means of ensuring that teachers are aware of both forms of reference is to include them both in the standards for teachers.
Deadline for Public Comment:
Part 29 (Standards for Administrative Certification)
These amendments cover three aspects of the rules and are all basically technical in nature.
The revision in Section 29.10 corresponds to revisions that have been made in other sets of ISBE's rules to identify October 1 as the date when the new examinations are required. In each case the new examinations will be first administered in summer, and the three-month delay is needed before the test is required, to account for the time it takes for scores to become available and for the passing score to be established.
The reference to the "general administrative endorsement" at the beginning of Section 29.120 acknowledges that Section 21-7.1 of the School Code gives this title to the endorsement that is required for principals and certain other administrators in similar positions. The remaining revisions in Section 29.120 are being made for the same reason.
Finally, the changes in Section 29.140 (Director of Special Education) and the repeal of Section 29.150 correspond to the insertion of new material into Part 25 (Certification). We are now at the point where comprehensive new statements need to be made in those rules about the requirements for issuance of all types of teaching, school service personnel, and administrative certificates, so this is an opportune time to transfer the information that has been stated in the introduction to Section 29.140 and in all of Section 29.150 into its logical place within Part 25. This transfer will leave only the standards for the endorsement stated in Part 29, which is comparable to the way all the other administrative endorsements have been treated.
Deadline for Public Comment:
Part 350 (Secular Textbook Loan)
This rulemaking implements P.A. 93-212, effective
Deadline for Public Comment:
Notice of Completed Rulemaking
Please be advised that a rulemaking item recently adopted by the State Board of Education is now in effect. This set of rules has been posted on the agency's web site at www.isbe.net/rules; choose "Rules Currently in Effect" and scroll to the relevant Part number. (If you print only the affected Sections, remember to include the table of contents for the Part, which changes every time the Part is amended.)
Standards for Certification in Specific Teaching Fields (Part 27)
These amendments originated with one of the determinations
issued on
The new standards were developed with the assistance of representatives of higher education. They emphasize reading and mathematics but also include fundamental requirements in the natural and social sciences. They represent a synthesis of selected standards that are already in place with respect to elementary and special education as well as those four curricular areas. The guiding principle in their development was to state expectations for content knowledge that would enable special educators to afford their students access to the general curriculum as required by IDEA without unduly extending their initial preparation programs.
Affected Sections: 27.10 and 27.350
Effective Date:
FY 2004 Final Mandated Categorical Prorations
Selected mandated categorical prorations have been finalized for FY 2004:
Due to the failure of HB 1180, the final proration for Special Education Extraordinary will not be final until late February or early March. Special and Regular Education Orphanage will not be final until August 2004; however, due to passage of SB1333 the proration will be 100% for both programs. The final proration for the Illinois Free Lunch and Breakfast program will not be final until August 2004.
If you have any questions about this information you may contact staff in the Division of Funding and Disbursement Services at 217-782-5256.
February 23 –
February 27 –
March 4 –
Updated information on registration and the conference program can be accessed at the following sites:
· Lt.
Governor Pat Quinn is launching the Cesar Chavez Day of Service and Learning
initiative to encourage an ethic of service and civic responsibility in young
people. This program is for K-12 public and private school students who
will connect with community agencies to work on a service project on or during
the week of
On January 8, The
Newshour with Jim Lehrer presented a debate on No Child Left Behind


text:
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringrerose1975 Feb 16, 2011 6:22 PM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
Interesting story, with fairies and shapeshifters, oh my! 4 Stars.
Ignore the cover, it is horrible! Great vampire story. I can't wait for the sequel. 4, maybe 5
Fallen angels both good and bad fighting over humanity. Interesting read, not great, but good. 3 stars.
LOVED this book, 5 stars. If you are a woman, it is a must read!
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringonemorrismom Feb 18, 2011 6:17 AM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
The Demon Girl I rated these a 5. Enjoy!
The Unsuspecting Mage (Morcyth Saga Series #1)
These I rated a 4
Earth-Born Lord Earth-Born Lord
Black Silk Black Silk
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringJohn_Gaffield Feb 19, 2011 1:02 PM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
I have two free horror short stories that are from Smashwords, but available at B & N:This one is temporarily free:The Ghost of Birch River CabinJohn T. Gaffield
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringNerdgirljenn Jun 14, 2011 12:07 PM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
I want to resurrect this thread now (6/14/2011), as an additional site for the free nookbooks thread. Many times they are not listed as there are so many smashword titles, some great (like Queen's Blade) and some extremely bad. So maybe we can use this thread to share ideas on smashword freebies that are worth considreing...
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringDCLOVELL Jun 24, 2011 9:10 AM (in response to Nerdgirljenn)
When it comes to "breathtakingly fast-paced thrillers" (Publishers Weekly), CJ Lyons is a "master of the genre." (Pittsburgh Magazine)
Just your average Pittsburgh soccer mom, baking brownies and carrying a loaded forty-caliber Glock…
Lucille Teresa Guardino. A woman of many identities. Lucille to her doting mother, Lulu to her devoted husband, Mom to her pre-teen daughter, Lucy to her friends, LT to her co-workers, and Supervisory Special Agent Guardino to the criminals she captures for the FBI's Sexual Assault Felony Enforcement squad.
A loving mom and wife, dutiful daughter, consummate professional, and kick-ass federal agent, Lucy is living the perfect life.
Until the day she comes up against a predator more vicious and cunning than any she's ever tackled before, one who forces Lucy to choose between the life of the young victim she is fighting to save and her own daughter's….and Lucy's dream life is shattered.
This was posted on another thread and someone suggested it be posted here to bump the thread! So, here we are!
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringkathylcsw Jun 26, 2011 1:02 PM (in response to DCLOVELL)
I haven't read it yet but I just downloaded it. Reviews are very positive and it sounds good.
Jimmy Logan wakes up in the morning to find that the stock market is crashing and the dollar has collapsed. He makes a trip to town and finds the banks closed and hyperinflation has hit the streets. Many believe its the End of Times. Jimmy joins up with some friends and they head north to ride out the storm. That's when they find that everyone wants what they have, and will kill to get it.
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringkathylcsw Jun 27, 2011 3:08 AM (in response to kathylcsw)
Another Smashwords title with great reviews
Daniel Tomelin, a shell-shocked veteran haunted by the carnage of the First World War, abandons his family in the Great Depression and goes on the road in search of relief from his nightmares. The life of a freight-hopping, banjo-strumming hobo appeals to him more than he wants to admit. But he insists he's not a bum - he's a family man looking for work; a down-and-out victim of the Depression, whose war flashbacks and guilt for leaving his family accompany him through the hills of Missouri. Compassionate, humorous, and warm, despite the economic hardships of the era, Face the Winter Naked will appeal to readers who enjoy tales of survival in the Great Depression. Stories of desperate men who couldn't handle the realities of war or financial ruin. Men who dearly loved their families but hadn't the courage to stay and accept responsibility. The story pulls the reader back to a tragic period in history, where people either learned to cope with poverty - or perished. What they're saying about the book: "Face the Winter Naked is a gorgeously written and evocative novel of an earlier economic crisis: the Great Depression. Readers looking for a stunning read, intelligent and emotional on every level, will not be disappointed." ~~ Lauren Baratz-Logsted, author of Crazy Beautiful and the The Education of Bet *** Face The Winter Naked is a poignant tale of a family's plight during the Great Depression. Plagued by traumatic memories of the...
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringasnow4sure Jun 27, 2011 5:48 PM (in response to kathylcsw)
I can vouch for "Desperate Times"....I downloaded it and I was hooked on first page. Very believable scenario with our economy being what it is right now. It's also around 834 pages. I highly recommend!!
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringBrandieC Jun 28, 2011 2:01 PM (in response to asnow4sure)
I remember when I first learned about Desperate Times that there were also a variety of prequels or related freebies, each of which focused on a particular character or set of characters from Desperate Times. You might try running a search for the author's name to see if you can find the others in the "series."
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringAVID-JT Jul 6, 2011 2:55 PM (in response to asnow4sure)
I agree that Desperate Times is one of the most exciting and relevant books I've read in a long time. What happens in that story could very well happen in reality. The e-book is now $2.99 but such a great read that it's worth every penny and more. If you haven't read it, download it before the price goes up, because it will.
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringElijah_Joon Jul 6, 2011 9:54 PM (in response to AVID-JT)
Famous literary agent Jeff Kleinman, who infamously said he absolutely hates short stories recently called this free short short on Smashwords a "Great story." That's noteworthy in and of itself.
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringNerdgirljenn Jul 21, 2011 10:12 AM (in response to Nerdgirljenn)
I don't think I added the link to Queen's Blade last time...it's still free (as it is part of a series)...a good read IMHO, if you are into fantasy(ie Robert Jordan, Carol Nelso Douglas early works, David Eddings), you might enjoy this...I was impressed by the plot, the description of the setting (considering she had to make the world up on her own, making it sound realistic), the depth of the characters and their motivations...
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringaprilbabyAK Sep 5, 2011 5:06 PM (in response to Nerdgirljenn)
This book is 2.99 at BN and Amazon (4 stars at Amazon too) but it is FREE at Smashwords.
When Travis Maguire chases his dog into Washington, D.C.'s Rock Creek Park wilderness, he finds more than the dog -- he discovers a camera with photos of a mysterious black triangle that crashed in the woods. Obsessed with the photos, Travis searches for the wreck with two friends: beautiful Lexie Collins, who's convinced a UFO came down outside the city, and her skeptical brother Burke.
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringaprilbabyAK Sep 11, 2011 8:53 PM (in response to aprilbabyAK)
Kingdom of Fire (The Sword of Fire Saga)
Smashwords on BN
Kingdom of Fire is the first book in the epic new high fantasy series which chronicles the final war between the crumbling human empire of Werstria and the savage and unrelenting horde of the orcs at their border.
In the first book of the Sword of Fire saga, the epic struggle for survival is told through the eyes of a newly enlisted soldier named Markus, who experiences the crushing defeat of the western empire as the horde of Karsian orcs led by the dreaded Prince Ozturk, smash through the Werstrian defences. Only the bitter onset of winter slows their invasion. Markus, the only survivor of his regiment, battles desperately to stay alive. Driven deep into the infamous Salbein Mountains, he befriends the most unlikely of allies. With only a few months until the counter-offensive of the spring, he must seek the help of a mysterious wizard and lord who has lived in solitude for hundreds of years.
With the aid of the most unlikely of friends, Markus must venture into hostile lands to save the empire from destruction, faced with the terrifying knowledge that the orcs of Karsia have unearthed and harnessed the power of the Dragons of bygone ages. Markus fights the class struggle of his people, the bitter hatred of the orcs and the dreadful wrath of Dragons in his personal quest for revenge.
Kingdom of Fire is a classic work of high fantasy set in the midst of a brutal war of epic proportions.
Cloudburst: previously published, now on SmashwordsDoug_Pardee Jul 20, 2011 7:16 AM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
I haven't read this one, but it was previously published by a 'Big 6' publisher.
To get this one for free, you have to get it directly from Smashwords. Smashwords is an Agency Model publisher, so this title should become free here on B&N when they get the next Smashwords update.
Books on the Knob says this one was originally published by HarperCollins under the title Thunder One.
Description from Books on the Knob: (I don't know where Karen got this text)
In Los Angeles, the president is killed in a brazen terrorist suicide attack. Halfway across the globe, an American airliner is hijacked by another group of Middle Eastern extremists and forced to make a brief stop in Libya. Events that are first seen as unconnected soon are proven to be part of an interconnected plan to strike at the heart of the United States.
On opposite coasts, FBI Agent Art Jefferson and National Security Adviser Bud DiContino race to manage situations as they spiral toward disaster. With the hijacked airliner racing toward the United States, its cargo hold filled with what intelligence analysts believe is a nuclear weapon, the only hope for the passengers' lives comes in the form of an audacious rescue plan to be executed by the highly secretive Delta Force.
From its pulse-pounding opening to its action-packed climax, Cloudburst grabs you and will not let go. Ranging from the violent assassination of the President on the streets of Los Angeles to covert action against terrorist havens in North Africa, from the halls of power in Washington to a highjacked airliner racing toward the heart of the United States, Cloudburst takes the reader on a riveting journey as FBI agents and elite counterterrorist units fight a desperate battle to save millions of innocents, and bring those responsible to justice.
One O'Clock Jump: previously published, now on SmashwordsDoug_Pardee Jul 20, 2011 7:16 AM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
I haven't read this one, but it was previously published by a 'Big 6' publisher.
One O'clock Jump (Dorie Lennox Series #1)
To get this one for free, you have to get it directly from Smashwords. Smashwords is an Agency Model publisher, so this title should become free here on B&N when they get the next Smashwords update.
Books on the Knob says this one was originally published by Minotaur (now a Macmillan publisher).
Description from Books on the Knob: (I don't know where Karen got this text)
Halfway around the world, war has begun, but for Dorie Lennox, a newly-minted private eye on her first tail, danger is more immediate. The dark streets of Kansas City of 1939 offer swing music, fast cars, gangsters, and the chance to forget about the Depression and her own murky past. But first she must conquer her fears and save a woman on a bridge high above the muddy Missouri. Dorie is thrown into a quickly unraveling scam that offers salvation to few — and misery to plenty — in the high stakes world of machine politics and desperation deals.
The landscape of America and the homefront of World War II are evoked in a thoughtful mystery that lingers for the force of characters and keen sharpness of a slice of history seen through the perceptive, compassionate eyes of Dorie Lennox.
Re: One O'Clock Jump: previously published, now on Smashwordskathylcsw Jul 20, 2011 4:46 PM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
Sudden Death (endorsed by James Patterson & Clive Cussler)
Reid Clark - a pro golfer at the top of the leader board during the PGA tour; he is also a hothead with a reputation for trouble. Reid receives a death threat right before teeing off on the final day of the Master's Tournament, and hires a P.I. to track down the perpetrator. Suspense builds throughout as Reid tries to compete in one of golf s most prestigious contests - and woo the woman he loves.
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringasnow4sure Jul 21, 2011 8:10 AM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
When Eleanor learns that her time is running out, she reaches out to her estranged daughter and the grandchild she's never met, hoping to make amends. With the help of an elaborate plan, she intends to make memories that will last them a life time, and a legacy that will continue to provide for them long after she has gone. But the one thing that Eleanor has forgotten is that her daughter can be just as stubborn as she is. Will she be able to reunite with her daughter, while still keeping her biggest secret?
Very sweet and uplifting read.
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringasnow4sure Jul 21, 2011 8:14 AM (in response to asnow4sure)
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringKurt149 Sep 23, 2011 5:19 AM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
by David Hailwood
This is a book of trivia facts the author made up. It's a funny short read. But the really funny thing is to read the reviews of people who can't decide if it's real or not.
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringjavabird Nov 11, 2011 5:51 PM (in response to Kurt149)
This is the sequel to Fifth Avenue:
Five years ago, each person sold out to the SEC and took the stand against Maxmilian Wolfhagen, the infamous arbitrageur who robbed the world of billions and brought about the collapse of the stock market. Now, with Wolfhagen out of prison, one by one, each is dying a grisly death.
With the time restrains so tight, the challenges are massive--but so are their ruthless skills.
Hired by the writer Maggie Cain to investigate Wolfhagen for a biography she's writing about him, private investigator Marty Spellman soon learns that all isn't what it seems as the twists pile up along with sheer number of the dead. His life is put on the line. His family is threatened. No one is who they appear to be. Who can he trust as the bulls of Wall Street start to run as the two assassins fully ignite their killing spree?
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringcompulsivereaderTX Apr 27, 2012 3:03 PM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
I HAVE read this one and then purchased the next one in the series. I see there's another one now.
Product Details
- Publisher: You Come Too Publishing
- Publication date: 3/11/2011
- Sold by: SMASHWORDS - EBKS
- Format: eBook
- Sales rank: 1,583
- File size: 505 KB
Last year after falling through the ice, seventeen-year-old Abby Craig woke up from death.
But she woke into a world she barely recognizes. She can't see colors, memories have been erased, and her friends all hate her. And then there's Jesse, who she loves, but who refuses to forgive her the one mistake she made long ago.
Just when she thinks it can't get any worse, the visions begin. In them, she sees a faceless serial killer roaming the streets. While the police believe that there have been a lot of accidents in town lately, Abby knows differently. And she soon realizes that it's up to her to find him.
But to stop him, she'll have to confront more than just the killer. She'll have to face something else that was lost in those dark waters. The truth.
In the tradition of Amanda Hocking, 44 is a thrilling paranormal romance mystery novel that keeps readers at the edge of their seats and glued to the very end. The ending will haunt you forever.
"Five Star Review. Heart pounding mystery that expertly weaves all the elements of a great paranormal suspense novel. The known and the unknown interact magnificently. You'll love this book."
-- Allison Karras, author of "Drowning in the Dark"
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringcompulsivereaderTX Apr 29, 2012 6:55 PM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
"A vagabond musician decides to settle down in a small town and promptly falls in love with her next door neighbor. To her dismay, he turns out to be the local minister. Ms. Webb has done a really lovely job of weaving in the more serious problems relating to the hero's vocation while maintaining a marvelous sense of humor and romance." Romantic Times
"Webb has a fresh and humorous voice that makes reading just plain fun." Affaire de Coeur
"Peggy Webb's humor keeps fans coming back." Times/Daily, Jackson, TN
"The Donovans of the Delta classics are a heartwarming portrayal of family. Peggy Webb's unique voice and comedic touch make this charming Southern series a true masterpiece. The stories made me laugh out loud and cry. Just amazing!" Debra Webb, national bestselling author of the Colby Agency series
Donovans of the Delta Series, Book One (Special Holiday Price)
When Martie Fleming breezed into small town Pontotoc, Mississippi, determined to settle down and teach jazzercise in her home studio, she never expected to land next door to the minister. She never expected her playful golden retriever to steal his shorts right off the clothes line. And she certainly never expected to fall in love.
Everybody in town would agree they are so wrong for each other – everybody but Paul Donovan. With her gypsy outfits, her lively music and her irrepressible spirit, Martie is exactly the angel the preacher needs. But can he convince her? Can their love and his career survive the small town gossip and the fireworks Martie creates wherever she goes?
This is the first of a five-book romantic comedy series originally published by Loveswept and considered to be their definitive family series. The sequel to Donovan's Angel is Sleepless Nights.
can't personally vouch for this as I haven't read it yet...but it has an average 4 star rating with 149 ratings and that's better than many of the non-smashword titles, including the big 6.
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringcompulsivereaderTX Apr 29, 2012 7:07 PM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
The Legacy Collection
Book 1: Maid for the Billionaire
Dominic Corisi knew instantly that Abigail Dartley was just the distraction he was looking for, especially since having her took a bit more persuading than he was used to. So when business forces him to fly to China, he decides to take her with him, but on his terms. No promises. No complications. Just sex.
Abby has always been the responsible one. She doesn't believe in taking risks; especially when it comes to men - until she meets Dominic. He's both infuriating and intoxicating, a heady combination. Their trip to China revives a long forgotten side of Abby, but also reveals a threat to bring down Dominic's company. With no time to explain her actions, Abby must either influence the outcome of his latest venture and save his company or accept her role as his mistress and leave his fate to chance. Does she love him enough to risk losing him for good?
200 ratings with average of 4 stars.
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringcompulsivereaderTX May 14, 2012 11:40 AM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
Here are some highly rated nookbooks you might be interested in:
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringcompulsivereaderTX May 15, 2012 8:41 AM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
Product Details
- Publisher: Air Castle Books
- Publication date: 9/21/2010
- Sold by: SMASHWORDS - EBKS
- Format: eBook
- Sales rank: 1,559
- File size: 307 KB
Sensual Regency Romance
331 ratings averaging 4 stars.
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringA3A Sep 26, 2012 6:15 PM (in response to Doug_Pardee)Jim Stinson made available four books in the series free to download from iTunes, Kobo, and Smashwords. B&N lists free versions and $4.99 versions. Make sure the books are really free if purchasing from B&N. The titles are as follows: ------1. Double Exposure-----------2. Low Angles-------3. Truck Shot-----------4. TV Safe-----------------------------First published in 1986 in hardcover by Scribner.
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringMoonracerMN Sep 26, 2012 5:18 PM (in response to A3A)
Ambrose, Prince of Wessex; Trader of Kiev.
Ambrose, Prince of Wessex; Trader of Kiev, is a story set during the time of the Viking invasions of Europe and Russia. The story chronicles the life of Ambrose, a bastard Saxon Prince of England, and elder brother to Alfred the Great.
Ambrose and his companion, Phillip, are caught and enslaved during a Viking raid on his homeland. They are taken to Frisia and then to Denmark, where they meet a Byzantine slave, Polonius. Ambrose and Polonius are fortunate enough to have kind masters, but Phillip is first abused and then condemned to a terrible death. In order to save the life of his faithful companion, Ambrose must flee both his master and his first love.
The three escaped slaves flee north by boat to Norway, where they land and recover from their arduous journey. Before the snow closes the high passes, however, they trek overland to Sweden and the land of the Rus.
A letter from Ambrose's former master assures a surprising welcome there, but they must once again flee when pursuing Danish ships make port. Sneaking away in the night, they manage to join an expedition of Rus tribesmen who are on their way to take over the Slav city of Novgorod.
The three comrades build a trading post there, appoint a factor, and then take the opportunity to move south with another expedition sailing down the Dnieper River with the intention of colonizing the Slav town of Kiev. On the main trade route to the Byzantine empire, the Viking conquerors of Kiev start to organize both Vikings and Slavs into a federation of tribesmen. The area, just north of the open steppes, is terribly vulnerable to attacks from powerful nomad tribes that roam the steppes to the east and the south.
After settling in Kiev, Polonius marries Kuralla, the Slav chief's daughter whom Ambrose saved from a terrible death. Kiev is perfectly suited to control the trade from the north to the fabled city of Constantinople, and the friends work hard to establish a secure base for their Swedish sponsor, Gunnar of the Rus.
Within a year of arriving, the new settlers find themselves fighting the Pechenegs, a fierce Steppe nation that is, itself, being forced from its traditional territory. Thanks to the mobility offered by the Viking ships, the Slav and Viking allies are able to hold back the savage raiders. Polonius acts as a military advisor, and his ideas allow the Vikings to attack the Pechenegs at their most vulnerable point. With their cavalry decimated by the stubborn river people and their own enemies catching up to them, the Pechenegs flee across the Dnieper and move west.
With the Rus leaders now firmly in control of Kiev and much of the Dnieper River Valley, the dead are buried and reconstruction begins. The Rus have come to stay, and, after long and exciting travels, Ambrose, Phillip and Polonius have found an adopted home.
I am looking forward to getting book 2 of thie 6 or 7 book series. I like a well written historical fiction and this made me very happy for the price.
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringA3A Sep 28, 2012 9:57 AM (in response to Doug_Pardee)"The Mephisto Mysteries" by Terence O'Grady, is free at B&N.---------------------------------------http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-mephisto-mysteries-terence-ogrady/1109155852?ean=2940033042777------------------------------------Overview----- Elizabeth McDermitt is thrilled to be a finalist for the famous Radovsky Prize, a Viennese competition featuring the best young pianists in the world. But the situation quickly becomes sinister when two young pianists are injured and unable to continue. And there are reports of strange, perhaps even supernatural events that keep everyone on edge. Finally, there is the suicide of one of the pianist's teachers, a suicide that turns out to be a murder.
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringA3A Nov 29, 2012 4:22 PM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
Currently free
No cover picture available
Author: Deb Baker
Publisher: Deb Baker, Smashwords
"Caroline Birch. Put her away." The message was clutched in the fist of a destitute former doll collector found dead at the bottom of a cliff with a valuable French doll's parasol in her pocket. And the person seen fleeing the crime scene fits Caroline's description. But Gretchen Birch knows her mother is innocent. The problem is, Caroline has disappeared - and she's left an urgent warning that Gretchen is in danger, too.
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringA3A Dec 8, 2012 9:20 AM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
Currently freeAuthor: Stacy verdict Case
Publisher: SmashwordsThe irreverent detective is back, and this time she's on vacation. God help us all. St. Paul, Minnesota Homicide Detective Catherine O'Brien and her loving husband Gavin are vacationing on one of Minnesota's 10,000 lakes. When a local is murdered Catherine is tapped to help the small town Sheriff until the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension arrives to take over the investigation. Catherine is surprised when her partner Louise and Diggs the forensic pathologist, whose crush on Louise is only dwarfed by his own genius, shows up to assist instead of the BCA. Before long Catherine and Louise discover this sleepy little town has a dark side hidden beneath its placid lake charms. Somewhere in the tangle of cheating and deception is a motive for murder.
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringMacMcK1957 Dec 8, 2012 10:15 AM (in response to A3A)
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringA3A Dec 17, 2012 8:47 PM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
FreeAuthor: Karen Baney
Publisher: SmashwordsOverviewDrew and Hannah Anderson are forced to move to the Arizona Territory in 1863. During their journey they meet the governor and witness several historic events. Will Colter is forced to leave his home, so he heads west to the Arizona Territory. Danger and trials await them in their new home. Will they find their dream of a new life? Or will a new dream unfold before their eyes?
Come Fly With MeaprilbabyAK Jan 20, 2013 11:27 AM (in response to A3A)
- Publisher: Sandi Perry
- Publication date: 4/4/2012
- Sold by: SMASHWORDS - EBKS
- Format: eBook
- Sales rank: 2,482
- File size: 793 KB
Come Fly With Me is a contemporary novel with a hint of mystery, romance and humor. Allison Ross is a prickly young art gallery owner in New York who has perfected the art of keeping everyone at arm's length. When her father dies tragically, she realizes her own vulnerability. For the first time, she must lean on others for support and discovers her inner strength as she opens her heart to love.
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringCheryl_Rogers Jan 23, 2013 1:03 PM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
I have some freebies available through Smashwords. They include:
The Lesson of Jonah: There is a Price to Pay When You Disobey, a Bible study for 10 to 14 year olds
I Can See God's Word (Skit), an easy-to-perform skit for youth groups, Bible clubs and churches
What You Should Know Before You Hire a Book Desginer, a free ebook for authors who need help with self publishing
Please share the links with your friends. Thanks!
Officer JonesaprilbabyAK Feb 3, 2013 9:26 AM (in response to Cheryl_Rogers)
- Publisher: Derek Ciccone
- Publication date: 6/11/2012
- Sold by: SMASHWORDS - EBKS
- Format: eBook
- Sales rank: 3,686
- File size: 923 KB
After an assignment goes horribly wrong, JP Warner, the fearless international correspondent of GNZ News decides to return to the idyllic town he grew up in, seeking the simple life. But when he looks into the eyes of local policeman, Officer Kyle Jones, he sees the same look he's seen in the many fanatics he's covered over the years, and realizes that he's covering the biggest story of his life.
The Devil's Metal (Devils #1)aprilbabyAK Feb 3, 2013 9:27 AM (in response to aprilbabyAK)
- Publisher: Karina Halle
- Publication date: 9/16/2012
- Sold by: SMASHWORDS - EBKS
- Format: eBook
- Sales rank: 2,093
- File size: 866 KB
Put on some Zeppelin, pour yourself a glass of Tang, and get ready for some hot sex, drugs and rock n' roll in this thrilling paranormal romance...
Set in the 1970's, a young music journalist named Dawn Emerson gets the opportunity of a lifetime when she's invited to go on the road with her favorite band. But there are more dangerous complications than Dawn's feelings for the gorgeous guitarist.
"No Tears for the Fallen"A3A Feb 22, 2013 5:47 PM (in response to Doug_Pardee)"No Tears for the Fallen" -----------------Author and Publisher: Steve Bailey------------- http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/no-tears-for-the-fallen-steve-bailey/1113743693?ean=2940045023214 -------------------------------------------------------------------- One sunny afternoon, Nick Price took a stroll through Lumpini Park in Bangkok with his family and friends. At some stage, a joke was cracked, he laughed and placed a hand, intimately, on a young man's shoulder. The event was unremarkable, except that twenty years later a witness testifies that the young man had been Khun Sa, the legendary drug lord from the Golden Triangle. Set against the backdrop of civil unrest in Bangkok in May 1992, DCI Jack Magee visits Thailand to explore Nick Price's murky past in the hope of identifying Khun Sa, unaware that he has been set up by the intelligence services like a goat to catch a tiger.
Free "Alaska Virgin Air"A3A Feb 24, 2013 7:44 PM (in response to Doug_Pardee)Free------- "Alaska Virgin Air"---------------Author and Publisher: Izzy Ballard--------- http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/alaska-virgin-air-izzy-ballard/1103331803?ean=2940000786222 ------------------------------------------------- Library Journal:---------- When Abigail Vertuccio, a clairvoyant with poor self-esteem, returns to Alaska to help run her grandmother's airline, she soon finds that she is marked for murder. VERDICT Pretty standard fare but the Alaskan setting and the snappy dialog will appeal to readers of cozies.
"Susanna and the Spy"A3A Feb 26, 2013 2:36 PM (in response to Doug_Pardee)"Susanna and the Spy" --------------------Author and Publisher: Anna Elliott ---------------------------------- http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/susanna-and-the-spy-anna-elliott/1108052409?ean=2940044754713
"Miscue"A3A Feb 28, 2013 9:17 AM (in response to Doug_Pardee)"Miscue" -------------Author: Glen C. Allison ------------------- http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/miscue-glen-allison/1005184531?ean=2940045004824
Free "Dying for You"A3A Mar 2, 2013 5:54 PM (in response to Doug_Pardee)"Dying for You" ----------------Author: Geraldine Evans ------------------ http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/dying-for-you-geraldine-evans/1006547910?ean=2940032914617
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringJohn_Gaffield Mar 3, 2013 8:29 AM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
Here are my four free short ghost stories published through Smashwords:
A short story about a careless driver, named Scott, who caused a tragedy. Scott was haunted by his actions. Would it cause him to change his ways?
Strange sounds emanating from the swamp startled Jack during the night. Alone in the house, he wondered what was outside. Would he determine what was tormenting him before it was too late?
The Ghost of Birch River Cabin
Staying at a dark secluded cabin along the Birch River that his uncle owned seemed like the perfect fly fishing weekend getaway for Paul. Strange occurrences began happening. Would it be enough to prevent the history of the cabin from being repeated?
Darren was awakened by a strange sound within his bedroom with a blizzard and subzero temperatures outside. He realized he was no longer alone in his room. Was someone or something after him? Will he be able to evade the visitor?
Thank you,
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringA3A Mar 13, 2013 10:33 PM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
Evangeline (A Dark Faerie Tale #0.5)
Prequel - short storyAuthor and Publisher: Alexia Purdy
Publication date: 10/29/2012YAEver Shade (A Dark Faerie Tale #1)Author and Publisher: Alexia Purdy
Publication date: 10/29/2012YA
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringA3A Mar 27, 2013 3:18 PM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
Island Shifters - An Oath of the Blood (Book One)
Author and Publisher: Valerie Zambito
Pages: 396
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringA3A Apr 1, 2013 10:42 AM (in response to Doug_Pardee)Author: David DeLeePublisher: Dark Road PublishingShort StoryThis is the first book in a short series featuring a Bounty Hunter- this time, she's chasing a bail-jumper!
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringA3A Apr 3, 2013 10:16 PM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
Wired, A Jade Weekes Art MysteryAuthor: Judith GainesPages: 239Jade Weekes emerged from the oily wash of the Seine five years ago with no memory of her life, but an uncanny knowledge of fine art, museum security, and a knack for walking away with priceless treasures. Now she's tracking an elusive Van Gogh with ties to an underworld struggle that will reveal her forgotten past.Jade Weekes leaves Paris to track a priceless Van Gogh from St. Pete to Chicago. Her contacts are shady and she is beginning to think there is more to this job than a buyer wanting a gift for his wife. Otherwise, why would Simon Morrell, a rival thief, cross her path just as the FBI begins asking questions?Caught up in the six billion dollar international art theft industry, she enlists help from unlikely sources: film actor Alex Ford, and veteran FBI specialists Stewart Connor and John Young.No one is who they seem, most of all Jade Weekes.
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringA3A Apr 16, 2013 10:29 AM (in response to Doug_Pardee)By Lola St.VilDescriptionThe prophecy says I will fall in love with team leader and Angel, Marcus Cane. The prophecy also says that our love will cause his mission to fail and end the world.Whatever.This human is not worried. Why?Because I do not intend to fall in love with Marcus.The truth is I hate him. I hate his warm brown eyes with flecks of gold, his chiseled face and broad shoulders.I hate how over protective he is just because a few thousand demons are after me.In fact, I couldn't care less about Marcus or his perfect telekinetic girlfriend.And when I see him holding her, I don't die a little inside…
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringA3A Apr 16, 2013 10:38 AM (in response to A3A)By Melanie SteeleThis link goes to the paid version. Scroll down and click on the free one.A finely crafted memoir about one woman's search for happiness and fulfillment in modern-day America. After moving to the United States from Canada as a young newly-wed in 1998, Melanie rejects the status quo and embarks on a journey to discover what it means to be truly happy and fulfilled in the Land of Opportunity. Her search spans half a dozen states, a bunch of fearless adventures, and ever-increasing crises, divisions, turmoil, and discontent. Through it all, Melanie holds on to her fearless pursuit of happiness and fulfillment against ever-decreasing odds. Bold and inspiring, 13 Years in America is at once a moving personal story, a deep social commentary, and a sharp, hard look at the American Dream.
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringA3A Apr 25, 2013 8:56 AM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
By Ann ReardonOverviewGeorgina Graham doesn't relish lying to Dr. Nate Carmichael. But if the ruse works, she'll make a quick score. The deception plunges Georgina deep inside the swirling vortex of a wealthy California enclave's colorfully scheming inhabitants — Alejandro, the shady vulture capitalist — Lauren, the social-climbing diva — Jake, the wily racehorse trainer out of Kentucky — and scary smart Detective Sam Mori, a strangely beautiful woman in the grips of a bizarre obsession. And now the ever-so-engaging Dr. Carmichael has just laid a tender kiss smack on Georgina's mouth. Can her already chaotic life get any more complicated?Of course! Throw in a dead body and an unexpected autopsy finding, and watch Georgina's high-octane world come crashing down around her.
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringA3A Apr 30, 2013 9:27 AM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
A Myrtle Clover Mystery
by Elizabeth Spann Craig
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringA3A May 15, 2013 9:14 AM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
Teen Fury: Unleashed
by Amanda Torrey
Young Adult
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringA3A May 25, 2013 10:34 AM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
by James Todd Cochrane
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringA3A Jun 5, 2013 11:25 PM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
by William Wayne Dicksion
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringA3A Jun 6, 2013 9:42 AM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
Chasing Justice (Book 1) (Piper Anderson Series)
by Danielle Stewart
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringA3A Jul 2, 2013 10:41 AM (in response to Doug_Pardee)by A.R. WiseAlma Harper has been trying to forget what happened in Widowsfield 16 years ago. She has a good life as a music teacher now, and might rekindle her relationship with her one true love. However, the number 314 haunts her, and threatens to bring her back to the day that her brother disappeared. When a reporter shows up, just days before March 14th, Alma realizes that her past is coming back to haunt her.
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringA3A Jul 9, 2013 9:17 AM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
by Kit Frazier
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringA3A Aug 18, 2013 2:43 PM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
by Maggie Shayne
Contemporary Romantic Suspense
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringA3A Aug 23, 2013 8:02 PM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
By Liliana Hart
Pages: ca 260
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringA3A Sep 7, 2013 9:33 AM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
by Louis Bertrand Shalako
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringA3A Sep 9, 2013 10:57 AM (in response to Doug_Pardee)by Wolf BlackDick Love is a 42-year-old detective from New York now living and working in London. When a serial killer starts preying on young mothers, it's up to Love, and his sophisticated partner Stuart Le Fanu, to employ their MI6 state-of-the-art equipment along with good old-fashioned detective skills to discover the identity of the killer before he can strike again.Love hates technology but appreciates two things: the company of a good woman and retaining his single status. And if given the choice he'd just as soon stay alive.
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringA3A Sep 9, 2013 4:18 PM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
by Daniel Side
Romantic Suspense
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringA3A Sep 24, 2013 11:51 AM (in response to Doug_Pardee)by Keith DixonMysteryMaking a killing in business is one thing - doing it for real is another.Private Investigator Sam Dyke turns down a job that would require skills that he doesn't have - patience, computer-literacy, tact. Then he finds that the skills he does have - tenacity, aggression, street-smarts - are exactly the ones he needs for his next case - hunting down a cold-blooded murderer who seems to know what his every step will be.To solve the case Sam must negotiate with his ex-wife, cement a relationship with a new love, unravel an office-based financial fraud and fight off an arrogant murderer armed only with a pen-knife.
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringA3A Oct 5, 2013 3:04 PM (in response to Doug_Pardee)by J.R. RainThree bestselling novels together in one omnibus, including:MOON DANCEMother, wife, private investigator...vampire. Six years ago federal agent Samantha Moon was the perfect wife and mother, your typical soccer mom with the minivan and suburban home. Then the unthinkable happens, an attack that changes her life forever. And forever is a very long time for a vampire. Now the world at large thinks Samantha has developed a rare skin disease, a disease which forces her to quit her day job and stay out of the light of the sun. Now working the night shift as a private investigator, Samantha is hired by Kingsley Fulcrum to investigate the murder attempt on his life, a horrific scene captured on TV and seen around the country. But as the case unfolds, Samantha discovers Kingsley isn't exactly what he appears to be; after all, there is a reason why he survived five shots to the head.DARK HORSEDark Horse takes place in Huntington Beach, California. Surf City, USA. Written in the tradition of Robert B. Parker's Spenser and Raymond Chandler's Philip Marlowe, Dark Horse introduces a new hard-hitting, wise-cracking hero with a modern twist. When high school student Derrick Booker, the only black student at a posh Orange County high school, is accused of killing his white girlfriend, ex-college football hero and detective Jim Knighthorse is hired to dig a little deeper into the murder. It doesn't take long for Knighthorse to realize that not all is as it seems at tranquil Huntington High, from a band director who preys on the innocent to a vice-principal with a secret agenda of her own. Not to mention someone's hired a professional killer to keep Knighthorse permanently off the case.THE VAMPIRE WITH THE DRAGON TATTOOThree years ago, high school student Veronica Fortune witnessed the brutal murder of her parents. Now armed and dangerous, she sets out to hunt down the very thing that destroyed her life. That is, until she disappears. Spinoza is a private investigator who specializes in finding the missing. He's good at what he does. Damn good. But he's also a recovering alcoholic and a royal mess. Hired to find Veronica, Spinoza won't let his personal demons—or demons of any kind—get in the way of finding the truth about the missing girl. Now following a bizarre set of clues that leads him into stranger and stranger territory, Spinoza is about to come face-to-face with something legendary...and something hungry for blood
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringA3A Oct 18, 2013 9:22 AM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
by Grant McKenzieTraveling the stripper circuit of small town America, Finn is a female impersonator with a golden voice who never made the big time. His latest stop is Port Sorrow, a rough-and-tumble coastal town on the northern edge of the Olympic Peninsula.In the audience tonight, rookie deputy sheriff Julia Rusk has drawn the short straw and is scanning the rowdy audience for signs of a suspected serial rapist.A shotgun blast brings these two strangers together as a young stripper bleeds out on stage.While Julia tries to find the gunman and prove she's worthy to wear the badge, Finn takes the law into his own hands. Tracking through seedy dockside bars and the hidden world of the homeless, Finn comes to realize just how many lives this killer has touched.
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringA3A Dec 5, 2013 9:22 PM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
Sisters in Love (Snow Sisters, Book One: Love in Bloom Series)
by Melissa Foster
Lovers At Heart (The Bradens, Book One: Love in Bloom Series #4)
by Melissa Foster
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringA3A Jan 5, 2014 2:01 PM (in response to A3A)
Super Nobody (Alphas and Omegas Book 1)
by Brent Meske
Teen Fiction
Marblestone Mansion, Book 1 (Scandalous Duchess Series)
by Marti Talbot
Historical Fiction
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringA3A Jan 7, 2014 9:24 AM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
by Kate Burns
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringTarHeelGirl00 Jan 17, 2014 4:09 AM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
This is the thread where Smashwords freebies are typically posted. This post is just in case there are new readers who are not aware it exits.
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringTarHeelGirl00 Apr 5, 2014 6:03 AM (in response to TarHeelGirl00)
This is the thread where Smashwords freebies are typically posted. This post is just in case there are new readers who are not aware it exits.
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringIntrigued_by_Romance Apr 11, 2014 7:47 PM (in response to Intrigued_by_Romance)
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringjunonia-shell Mar 25, 2014 7:33 AM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringjunonia-shell Mar 29, 2014 9:50 AM (in response to junonia-shell)
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringjunonia-shell Jan 23, 2015 8:05 AM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
Have previously read a few books by this author and he did not disappoint. 4 stars or better.
The Trials of Max Q by Derek Ciccone | 2940032804697 | NOOK Book (eBook) | Barnes & Noble
When the law ends, the pursuit of justice begins!
Born into a legal dynasty, Jack Lawson was a natural who was making a name for himself as one of Manhattan's top young lawyers. But when his world came crashing down, Jack left the big city and his family's powerful firm, to seek solace in a small village of Cooperstown, New York. There, he re-discovered his love of the law.
But the peaceful village is shattered when a body is found on the estate of the county's most famous resident, and American hero, Drew Anderson. A man considered to be so perfect that he is nicknamed Max Q after the benchmark for systems perfection during a space launch. And it isn't just anybody who is found dead—the victim is widely considered to be one of the world's most infamous women.
When Anderson is arrested for the murder, Jack ends up with the case that everyone wants to "go away," and some are willing to go to the deadly lengths to make sure it does. Against all odds, Jack and his partner, Jessica Shepherdson, must risk their reputations, their careers, and eventually their lives, in an explosive race for the truth.
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringjavabird Jan 23, 2015 9:03 AM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
In case you missed it - Today's free Friday book is a Smashwords selection:
Closure by Randall Wood
When a prominent lawyer is shot while waiting at a suburban stop sign it sets off a nation-wide manhunt for an elusive killer. Special Agent Jack Randall of the FBI finds himself appointed to track down and stop the shooter. Not by his superiors, but by the killer himself.
As more bodies fall the shooter takes his message to the press, earning the support of the public with his choice of targets and confounding the FBI at every turn. From the desert of Nevada to the urban jungle of New York City, Jack and his team follow the trail of bodies and haunting messages left behind by the killer. With the pressure to find him mounting on Jack, the assassin's crimes grow bolder, and his message more sinister and closer to home.
It becomes clear to Jack that in order to find the shooter, he may have to look inside his own past, and become the man he was years ago.
Product Details
- Publisher: Randall Wood
- Publication date: 6/16/2013
- Sold by: Smashwords
- Format: eBook
- Sales rank: 1,001
- File size: 520 KB
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringjavabird Feb 12, 2015 10:17 AM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
Epic Unearthed by Thomas Turner
After the Ice Age, the world as we know now looked quite different. While glaciers began to melt all over the planet, water levels started to rise 300 feet, swallowing any evidence of cultures living near the ancient coastlines. However, in the last five decades, archeologists have found new civilizations older than the Egyptians and Sumerians, dating back twelve-thousand years. As history has to be rewritten, we have to ponder who were the heroes and antagonists of a forgotten time of the Atlanteans
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringFroide Mar 1, 2015 9:54 PM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
It's Smashwords' annual Read an EBook Week (March 1-7)
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringjavabird Oct 4, 2015 5:42 AM (in response to Doug_Pardee)1 of 1 people found this helpful
Bumping list. Use this list to post Smashwords freebies.
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringFroide Oct 4, 2015 7:28 AM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
agarcia - Any chance you can retitle the revived thread as follows?
- FROM: Smashwords freebies worth considering
- TO: "Smashwords and Independently Published Freebies Worth Considering"
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringTarHeelGirl00 Jul 14, 2016 2:08 PM (in response to Doug_Pardee)
Her Sister's Shoes by Ashley Farley | NOOK Book (eBook) | Barnes & Noble
Currently $ .99 (Reg $3.99) (I realize this is not free, but it is definitely a Smashwords worth considering.)
Set in the South Carolina Lowcountry and packed with Southern charm and memorable characters, Her Sister's Shoes is the story of three sisters—Samantha, Jackie, and Faith—who struggle to balance the demands of career and family while remaining true to themselves.
Samantha Sweeney has always been the glue that holds her family together, their go-to girl for love and support. When an ATV accident leaves her teenage son in a wheelchair, she loses her carefully constructed self-control.
In the after-gloom of her dreaded fiftieth birthday and the discovery of her husband's infidelity, Jackie realizes she must reconnect with her former self to find the happiness she needs to move forward.
Faith lacks the courage to stand up to her abusive husband. She turns to her sisters for help, placing all their lives at risk.
In the midst of their individual challenges, the Sweeney sisters must cope with their mother's mental decline. Is Lovie in the early stages of Alzheimer's, or is her odd behavior normal for a woman her age? No one, including Lovie, understands her obsession with a rusty key she wears around her neck.
For fans of Elin Hildebrand, Her Sister's Shoes is a contemporary women's novel that explores and proves the healing power of family.
Re: Smashwords freebies worth consideringFroide Jul 14, 2016 10:02 PM (in response to TarHeelGirl00)
Let's keep this thread free. A $0.99 book worth considering should go in the Best Bargains thread.


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INGREDIENTS:Pasta Dippers 12-16 oz. pasta, cooked al dente, rinsed in cold water, drained well—try farfalle, mini lasagna, bucatini 8 eggs, beaten 1 ½cups milk 1 lb. dry breadcrumbsDipping Sauce 2 lbs, 8 oz.white processed American cheese or white Extra Melt cheese, shredded 2 cups milk 3 oz. diced onion 2 Tbsps. minced garlic 1 Tbsp.Italian herb seasoning ½ tsp. hot pepper flakes, crushed 8 oz. frozen chopped spinach, thawed, squeezed dry 1/3 cup chopped pimentosDIRECTIONS:1. To Fry Pasta: ...
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| Common names: shark (English), tiburón (Espanol)
Carcharhinus obscurus (Lesueur, 1818)
Dusky shark
Body moderately slender to moderately stout; snout moderately short, broad, rounded, length 1-1.4 in distance between nostrils; nasal flaps rudimentary; upper front teeth broadly triangular, straight to a little oblique, serrated; lower front teeth with low, narrow, serrated points; low ridge on back between dorsal fins; origin of first dorsal fin over or slightly behind free rear corner of pectoral fins; first dorsal fin relatively low (height 6-9.1% of TL), front edge broadly arched, tip pointed to narrowly rounded; origin of second dorsal above anal fin origin, with long free rear tip; pectoral long, curved, pointed tip.
Very similar in appearance and easily confused with C. galapagensis; best means of separation is the lower dorsal fin: 5.8-9.9 % of TL in C. obscurus vs 9.1-12.1% of TL in C. galapagensis.
Grey, shading to white ventrally, with a faint, near-horizontal, grey band invading the white of upper abdomen; tips of fins dusky.
Size: reaches 420 cm; size at birth 69-100 cm.
Habitat: Inshore to offshore coastal- pelagic, primarily on continental shelves, not in low salinity habitats.
Depth: 0-400 m.
Circumglobal in tropical and warm temperate seas; from California to the Gulf of California and central Mexico, and the Revillagigedos.


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Dordt College News
Water Project projects shared with campus, community
November 15, 2012
November 13 marked the end of a semester-long interdisciplinary project in which Dordt College students proposed innovative solutions to water problems around the world. Globally, nearly 900 million people lack sustainable access to safe drinking water, so 122 four-person groups were asked to suggest creative, feasible, and well-argued solutions. Each team gave a poster presentation, and two sets of winners were announced based on voting by students and voting by faulty, staff, and community members.
Students gave first place to the proposal of Group 73, consisting of Dordt students Amanda Succop, Brittany Van Otterloo, Katie Nucaro, and Lee Veldkamp. The team focused on water supply in Brazil, where many do not have access to sanitary, safe, and sustainable water, even though the supply is adequate. Brazil does not have an adequate infrastructure for water transportation.
"Since there is a great amount of rainfall in Brazil, we propose that the people of Sao Paulo use rainwater collection systems to provide a more local source of safe and sanitary water," the students said. They argued that a 1000-gallon storage tank, using the roof of the family dwelling for water collection, would be sufficient to provide 10 liters of water per day, enough for a family of four, year round in years with typical rainfall.
Students' second choice was Group 109, made up of Travis Van Roekel, Jacob Faber, Ashley Jones, and Cady Millage. This team proposed solutions for villages and cities along the Sibiti River in Tanzania, where contamination of local groundwater sources by hard metals is causing rampant illness and death. The group proposes a multi-faceted solution, including education and distribution of inexpensive, long-lasting filters, combined with a long-term relational mission strategy.
Faculty, staff, and community members gave first place to Group 102 consisting of Dordt students Tyler Hoover, Kendall Stroeh, Katie Timmerman, and Anna Vanden Akker—who also placed third in student voting. Their project titled "Buy Blue," a water usage awareness program for the United States and other "first-world" countries, argued for a corporate initiative to encourage companies to maintain stewardly water consumption practices by voluntarily pledging to label their water footprint on their products and by lowering their water usage. A "seal of approval" on qualifying products would indicate how well the company has reduced their water footprint relative to similar companies in their market.
Group 95, consisting of Nathan Rider, Kyra Tolkamp, Bethany Hulst, and Selena Rinehart proposed a strategy that develops mission teams trained at an existing organization, Waterstep, whose mission is to provide training and technology to heal a thirsty world. Their presentation focused on water problems in the country of Uganda, using a car-battery powered chlorine filter and a health education program implemented by the mission teams.
The winning groups were given a small cash award, and all student participants were commended for their hard work during the semester. The student groups are now evaluating the 122 ideas and preparing a final report in which they argue for investment in particular solutions by funding agencies.
Media Access: Download Word Version | High Resolution Image: 1


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Davis Health System Healthy Living Expo set
The Annual Davis Health System (DHS) Healthy Living Expo will be held from 7 to 11 a.m. Saturday, April 20, at the McDonnell Center on the campus of Davis & Elkins College. It offers low cost blood tests, free preventative screenings and other tests.
"The expo promotes good health awareness and encourages participants to have an active role in their own health by taking advantage of the free and low cost screenings," said Marjory Moses, DHS Director of Community Wellness. The expo is open to all residents and targets individuals of all ages.
Multi-phasic blood panels begin at $30 and will be offered from 7 to 10 a.m. The special health fair package includes CBC, chemistry panel and lipids: HDL and LDL cholesterol plus triglycerides. Other tests available at discounted prices include thyroid, PSA (prostate), Vitamin D 25 Hydroxy, HGB A1C (diabetes), C-Reactive Protein (CRP) heart disease risk, CRP inflammatory and blood type.
Pre-registration for the multi-phasic blood tests is not required; however, individuals should fast for 12 hours before getting blood tests to ensure the most accurate results. Payment may be made at the time of the test by check or cash.
"Better health for families and individuals is an important part of the Davis Health System mission," said DHS CEO Mark Doak. "The expo is an opportunity for residents to better understand the status of their current health, and for us to provide education on the wide range of DHS and community health care resources available to them."
Free screenings include blood pressure, blood glucose, balance, clinical breast exams, posture, hemoccult, skin damage, pulse oxygen and more.
Participation by a number of community and social service groups enhance the expo by bringing a host of educational resources together in one location. Residents can learn about massage therapy, hospice, nutrition, personal and family health, senior services, fitness classes and other health-related programs available in the area.
Davis Health System partners with Davis & Elkins College and a number of community organizations to offer this expo to area residents.
For more information about the Health Living Expo, call 304-637-3139.


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Korean-American women in the PCUSA
In 2004, I was the 40th Korean-American clergywoman to be ordained in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). Forty seems a small number when you consider that in 2011, Korean-American clergywomen will celebrate the 20th anniversary of the first ordination in their ranks. The road to becoming a Korean-American clergywoman remains hard.
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text: Hearne Software is a major distributor of technical software and experts in SPSS Statistics software We are global distributors of SPSS Grad Packs for students and SPSS Faculty Packs for academics. We currently provide live support 7 days a week (over 22 hours on weekdays, 49 weeks a year) and offer custom training in the worlds' leading technical software titles with expertise in statistics, engineering, mathematics, graphing, data analysis and risk management. More About Us