text:
Message From the Director
The journey of the Office for Victims of Crime over the past 2 fiscal years1997 and 1998really began in June 1996. President Clinton issued a memorandum to the U.S. Attorney General asking for a renewed commitment
to crime victims, affirming his support for a
constitutional amendment for crime victims, and outlining four steps for the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to improve the treatment of victims in the Federal, State, military, and juvenile criminal justice systems (see sidebar).
June 27, 1996
SUBJECT: Renewing our Commitment to Crime Victims
"I am directing you to take a number of important steps that will improve the treatment of victims in the Federal, State, military, and juvenile criminal justice systems. First, I am directing you to undertake a systemwide review and to take all necessary steps to provide for full victim participation in Federal criminal hearings.
"Second, I would like you to work with other Federal agencies whose missions involve them with crime victims in order to ensure that a common and comprehensive baseline of participation for victims can be achieved.
"Third, I want you to review existing Federal statutes to see what further changes should be made. For example, I would like you to consider legislation that would prohibit employers from dismissing or disciplining employees who are victims of crime and whose participation as victims in criminal proceedings requires them to take time away from their employment.
"Finally, I want you to work with State officialsgovernors, attorneys general, legislators, district attorneys, and judgesand victims' rights advocates to identify the needs, challenges, best practices, and resources necessary to help achieve a
uniform national baseline of protections for victims.
"The U.S. Department of Justice should provide technical assistance to State and local law enforcement, as well as other Federal agencies, and serve as a national clearinghouse for information about the most effective approaches to realizing fully the rights of victims of violent crime."
Responding to the President's Directives
During FYs 19971998, OVC has done much to implement the President's directive to encourage and facilitate victims' participation in the criminal justice process. With support of the President and U.S. Attorney General, OVC provided the impetus to make victims' rights and services a priority for Federal criminal justice professionals. OVC held Federal agencies accountable for their victim/witness responsibilities and created partnerships and shared management responsibility for the Federal victim/witness program. OVC remains vigilant in its effort to institutionalize programs for victims in the Federal system by requiring the continuation of program efforts as a condition of funding.
As a Federal agency, OVC is unique in that it
has direct service responsibilities for victims of Federal crimes. OVC's three divisions fund a variety of formula and discretionary grant programs throughout the country, many of which address the President's third and fourth directives. OVC's State Compensation and Assistance Division (SCAD) awards formula grants to States and territories and ensures that the funds are spent for legislated purposes. The Federal Crime Victims Division (FCVD) trains Federal personnel and develops programs to assist victims whose cases are handled within the Federal and Tribal criminal justice systems. The Special Projects Division (SPD), like FCVD, designs discretionary grant programs to provide comprehensive, high-quality training for victim assistance providers throughout the country. In addition, OVC provides a national clearinghouse of crime victim resources and operates a Training and Technical Assistance Center (TTAC) for dissemination of training and grantee products. Through its formula grants to States for victim assistance and compensation, OVC accomplished the following in FYs 19971998:
Integrated victim services within the criminal justice system, in correlation with the passage of victims' rights legislation at the State level.
Stabilized victim services at the State level through increased funding.
Provided greater access to victim services for access-challenged populations.
Coordinated efforts among State, local advocates, Federal officials, and Indian Tribes.
Provided training, raised public awareness, and conducted outreach to victims to determine new rights and service priorities.
Assisted victims of nonviolent crime by creating and instituting innovative policy that addresses their needs.
Effected sharing of information among different victim service programs and groups through facilitating an effective peer support structure, focus groups, and regional conferences and meetings.
Supported use of technology to process victim claims for financial compensation.
Heightened sensitivity among victim service providers, allied professionals, and the public regarding the mental health needs of crime
OVC's formula and discretionary dollars have helped to improve the quality of crime victim programs, policies, and procedures while victim assistance and compensation grants to States and territories provide services to more than 21 million crime victims during the biennium. Over the last 2 fiscal years, when the large influx of funds became available to States for victim services as a result of the Daiwa Bank fine deposit into the Crime Victims Fund, the VOCA victim assistance program flourishedand the result for crime victims is better treatment, wider range of services, and more effective assistance programs. A permanent change, though, is needed to support a
fundamental funding base that will sustain the stability and growth of existing programs and promote opportunities for funding new programs.
Along with grant-driven efforts, OVC also has undertaken numerous activities designed to advance crime victims' rights and to focus public attention on crime victims' needs. (This important leadership component is described in chapters 3, 4, 5, and 7.) During the last biennium, OVC continued to work in close partnership with victim services providers and others in the field to help ensure justice and healing for victims and promoted fulfillment of both the "letter" and the "spirit" of the law with respect to victims' rights and needs.
Highlights from FYs 19971998
This Report to Congress, as prescribed by statute, describes many of OVC's accomplishments made possible by funding authorized in the Victims of Crime Act of 1984, as amended. Activities begun in FYs 19971998 are covered in this Report as well as some important initiatives that extend into FY 1999. Some significant achievements from this biennium include the following:
OVC facilitated and funded unmet needs for Federal crime victims. OVC provided resources where none existed and funded innovative projects such as the following:
Supported the development of telemedicine and other technologies to meet the needs of crime victims in remote areas.
Helped to create a national automated victim information system, which will provide timely notice to victims about their offenders' status within the Federal criminal justice systemthis in direct response to the President's directive.
Addressed fraud victims' needs through a new series of grant programs and publications designed to inform, protect, and otherwise
recognize the unique needs of this previously neglected group of crime victims.
Joined other Justice components to combat terrorism, foreign and domestic, through new partnerships, protocols, policies, and procedures; established model programs with other agencies; and funded training on terrorism issues.
Provided financial support directly to more than 50 federally recognized Tribes to deliver direct services and provided training and technical assistance in Indian Country in accordance with President Clinton's 1994 Directive to deal with Tribes on a government-to-government basis.
OVC developed long-term funding strategies with States. Of major importance during FY 1997 was the unprecedented funding provided for local crime victims' programs, made possible by a record year of deposits into the Crime Victims Fund (CVF)$529 million, up from a previous record of $363 million deposited in FY 1996. OVC took a strong, visionary approach with the States, launching several policy and strategic planning initiatives to encourage and assist development of long-term funding strategies and prepare States to effectively use these moneyswhich they did. The increase in funding, together with OVC leadership, provided the crime victims field with the resources needed to expand services across the country into many unserved and underserved areas such as rural America.
OVC responded to the field. With unprecedented resources, OVC amplified its program development and policymaking responsibilities to the field by
Establishing the Technical Training and Assistance Center to provide the field with a central access point for a range of crime victim resources, including a mentoring program to further the skills, knowledge, and abilities of VOCA administrators and their staff through peer consultation.
Overseeing revision of the Attorney General's Guidelines for Victim and Witness Assistance (AG Guidelines) to clarify roles and responsibilities for investigators, prosecutors, and corrections officials; providing funding support to other agencies with Federal victim/witness responsibilities; and staffing the Deputy Attorney General's working group on victims of crime.
Helping States develop integrated crisis response plans and enhance their current response protocols to provide long-term services to communities experiencing multiple-victim crimes.
OVC developed more partnerships and technologies. OVC developed many more partnerships in the last biennium to enhance delivery of services. One example includes implementation of an innovative Victim Services 2000 (VS 2000) demonstration program, which creates
victim-centered practices and environments within
communities and helps them to develop comprehensive, accessible services for crime victims. OVC also funded the development of technology both internally and externally to enhance the provision of victim services. On the international front, OVC continued to coordinate with other Justice components, the State Department, the United Nations, and international organizations to improve assistance to victims abroad, responding to such issues as tourist victimization, crime victim compensation, international terrorism, and missing and exploited women and children.
OVC increased public awareness of crime victim issues. OVC's mission is to enhance the Nation's capacity to assist crime victims by working to change attitudes, policies, and practices to secure justice and healing for all victims of crime. In this regard, OVC continued to serve a leadership role in advancing crime victims' rights and empowering communities through support for community-based initiatives, community capacity-building, and local decisionmaking. OVC continued to support Federal and State legislation aimed at promoting fundamental rights for crime victims and to raise public awareness through issuance
of a national blueprint for victims' rights and services for the next millennium in the form of New Directions from the Field: Victims' Rights and Services for the 21st Century (New Directions). Written by and for the victim assistance field with OVC support, this publication will continue to guide funding priorities for victim assistance
What the Future Holds for Crime Victims
The landscape of America is changing: immigrant and elderly populations continue to grow, while persons with disabilities and others needing access to crime victim services continue to emerge. In response, OVC is strengthening its efforts to reach these unserved and underserved victim populations. Traditional victim services in areas such as domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse, broke ground for a victims' movement now even more far-reaching. The field now encompasses victims of hate and bias, terrorism, political torture, financial fraud, and victims within vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with disabilities. Crime victims, once useful only as "evidence," now have a legitimate role in criminal justice proceedings. OVC's formula grants to States and discretionary programs have greatly reinforced this legitimacy and improved partnering throughout the system. People are beginning to see that crime victims have needs and the system is responding to them.
With New Directions as OVC's compass, OVC will partner with other government and private nonprofit agencies and allied professionals in the
victim services field to develop crime victim initiatives and further improve the response to crime victims. OVC will continue to identify new victim service areas, develop programs to address needs and deficiencies, encourage communities to reach out to unserved and underserved populations, find new entry points to provide access to victim services, and replicate promising practices. OVC will do this through support of applicable training and the development of protocols that incorporate crime victim issues at all levels of
justice and social service systems. OVC will also emphasize the New Directions agenda in the curricula of its national victim assistance academies and its soon-to-be-established State victim assistance academies.
In sum, OVC will continue to bring about systemic change to effect better treatment of crime victims and improved victim services. Toward this end, the anticipated collection of more than $800 million for the Crime Victims Fund by the U.S. Department of Justice Antitrust Division1 will greatly assist in providing the means to carry out the broader vision of OVC as advocated in New Directions. These funds will also allow OVC to
address more emerging issues, do more for victims of terrorism and mass violence at home and abroad, play an even greater role in providing direct services to victims of violent and white collar crime, create a fellowship within OVC, and pursue other goals that continue to serve all victims of crime.
Much work is left to do to ensure full inclusion and participation of all crime victims both within and outside of the criminal justice system. Although most State laws call for victims to be treated with dignity and compassion, to be informed of case status and notified of hearings and trial dates, to be able to deliver victim impact statements, and to receive restitution from convicted offenders, rights of victims still vary significantly nationwide. While 31 States (as of close of FY 1998) have enacted a State victims' rights amendment, many still lack adequate resources to implement programs to address rights afforded to victims and hence still cannot enforce compliance with their provisions.
Please note that data for formula grants during FY 1998 are incomplete because the grant cycle for that year does not end until September 30, 2000.
Kathryn M. Turman
Office for Victims of Crime
1This sizable deposit to the CVF will include the highest criminal fine imposed to date: F. Hoffmann-La Roche, Ltd., a Swiss pharmaceutical giant, agreed in May 1999 to plead guilty and pay a $500 million criminal fine for leading a worldwide conspiracy to raise and fix prices and allocate market shares for certain vitamins sold in the United States and elsewhere. A former director of the firm's chemicals division agreed to pay a $100,000 fine. A German firm, BASF Aktiengesellschaft, will pay a $225 million fine for its role in the conspiracy. The three cases are the result of an investigation conducted by the Antitrust Division's Dallas Field Office and the FBI in Dallas.
1This sizable deposit to the CVF will include the highest criminal fine imposed to date: F. Hoffmann-La Roche, Ltd., a Swiss pharmaceutical giant, agreed in May 1999 to plead guilty and pay a $500 million criminal fine for leading a worldwide conspiracy to raise and fix prices and allocate market shares for certain vitamins sold in the United States and elsewhere. A former director of the firm's chemicals division agreed to pay a $100,000 fine. A German firm, BASF Aktiengesellschaft, will pay a $225 million fine for its role in the conspiracy. The three cases are the result of an investigation conducted by the Antitrust Division's Dallas Field Office and the FBI in Dallas.


text:
Our Sacramento Animal Hospital
You and your pet are always welcome at VCA GreenhavenPocket Animal Hospital. VCA is a international network of over 700 hospitals. With our comforting, friendly environment, we're able to ensure that you and your pet have a positive experience every time you visit. We're totally committed to providing you with great client service and the highest quality of patient care. We are a team with the experience and know-how to skillfully care for your beloved pet.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
According to Edge-Online's unnamed source, the following new gameplay features will be added to the as-yet-unannounced sequel Gears of War 3.
- Underwater missions.
- Mech suits that can be used offensively and defensively
- COG explosives that travel underground to take out enemy cover spots.
- Locust enemies with tentacles that extend to player cover spots.
According to the rumor, all of the new wrinkles in the Gears of War universe will be available in both single and multiplayer modes.
The above story is simply rumor, so keep that in mind, but if seems like at least a realistic direction for the series to go. Ordinarily, I hate almost all underwater levels, but I have a feeling that if Gears 3 does have beneath-the-sea sections, Epic will have re-imagined how that sort of combat can work in a game, much like they did with above-water combat in the first two games. There are a lot of unexplored possibilities, no doubt. Plus, given how Gears 2 ended, with the sinking of the last human city, it makes sense.
Using computer technology and various Eastern fortune telling devices, TheFeed has concluded that this rumor is 70 percent likely to be true.
Source: Edge-Online


text:
CLOVIS, N.M. - The Clovis City Commission was forced to cancel its special meeting Thursday night when less than a quorum showed up.
Only Mayor David Lansford and four of the eight city commissioners were present for the meeting, at which the commission was scheduled to adopt the final version of Clovis' 1999-2000 budget.
Commissioners Steve Muscato, Bobby Moreno, Mario Trujillo and Isidro Garcia attended Thursday's meeting.
Commissioners John Schuller, Kevin Duncan, Jonathan Brock and Eldred Noble were absent.
City commissioners decided to postpone the meeting until Monday at 5:15 p.m. MDT.
The city's final budget must be approved and sent to the New Mexico Department of Finance and Administration in Santa Fe by July 31 each year, according to Clovis finance director Don Clifton.
© 2016. All Rights Reserved. | Contact Us


text:
The Style Gallery is a great new way for you to view, love, and share outfit photos. It's meant to showcase
all the expressive, creative, and inspirational personalities of our community!
Love you too!
Your email has been sent!
After months of patiently watering your balcony flower garden, it's time to share a few seedlings and a little fashion inspiration with fellow city-dwellers. Pair this bold red printed skirt with a white peasant top and earthy sandals, and you've created a comfy cotton ensemble that's perfect for a floral-inspired Saturday. Grab your bundle of lovely blooms and neatly written notecard labels, and you're ready to show off the pride of your apartment.
Final Sale: This item cannot be returned or exchanged.
All measurements in inches.
Sorry this item isn't available anymore


text:
Executive Compensation Methodology
October 29, 2007-- Home Textiles Today,
Home Textiles Today's Executive Compensation Report is based on data from public documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All files are for the companies' 2006 fiscal year and the comparable fiscal year two years prior.
For the purpose of comparability, in this report, cash compensation is defined as annual salary plus bonus; it excludes other cash compensation — which may include severance payments — and any form of stock options.
In this report, the value of stock options on the main table refers to the value of options exercised in 2006, as stated in the company's proxy statement.
The report was prepared by research specialist Daphne Garland-McLean and database coordinator Cynthia Myers. Director of market research Kay Anderson oversaw the project.
Related Content By Author
Sponsored Content
Sponsored Links
Featured Video
Previewing Heimtextil 2017


text:
You might have seen several somewhat disturbing teaser images floating around the Interwebs the past few days for some unknown Ubisoft project. Well, it turns out they were teasing Outerlight's newly announced downloadable title Bloody Good Time, coming to Xbox Live Arcade and PC this fall.
The Source engine-powered multiplayer shooter takes place on a series of Hollywood movie sets, such as a beach house and a spooky Las Vegas hotel, where up to eight players will engage in bloody and vicious battles using everything from guns to a frying pan to an remote-controlled rat bomb to cause as much deadly chaos as possible.
Judging from the screenshots, the name appears to be particularly apt, and the character design and art direction are certainly striking. Here are a few shots of some especially violent in-game action:
Should the need arise, feel free to E-Mail me your tips, suggestions, and/or personal philosophies, or follow me on Twitter.


text:
Orange Stuffed Pork Chops
13 Oct 2010
Ingredients4 pork chops , cut 1 inch thick
1/2 cup orange marmalade
Orange Stuffing
1 tablespoon butter or margarine
2 tablespoons orange juice
2 green onions, sliced
1 cup dry seasoned bread stuffing cubes
1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
1 teaspoon grated orange rind
Dash pepper
1/2 medium orange, chopped
1. Slit into side of each chop to form an opening or pocket. Divide Orange Stuffing among chops; stuff opening. Place chops in 10-inch glass ceramic skillet or shallow glass baking dish. Brush with orange marmalade. Cover with wax paper.
2. Microwave for 25 to 30 minutes on med.high (Roast), or until fork tender. Let stand, covered, 5 minutes before serving.
Orange Stuffing: Place butter in medium glass mixing bowl.
Microwave for about 1 minute on med.high (Roast), or until melted.
Add remaining ingredients; toss to combine.
Recipe Summary
Difficulty Level:Medium
Course:Side Dish
Preparation Time:5 Minutes
Rate It
Orange Stuffed Pork Chops Recipe


text:
Hero Motocorp's former technology partner Honda has made its intentions of racing towards the top spot clear. In order to keep Honda at bay and to remain as the world's largest two wheeler maker (in terms of volume), Hero Motorcorp has earmarked a capital expenditure of Rs. 1,100 Cr on various activities. The investment comes when the competition in the two wheeler scene is heating up amidst a slowdown. Speaking to Economic Times, Mr. Ravi Sud, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Hero Motorcorp stated that, "We are no strangers to competition. We have earmarked a capex of 1,100 crore for FY14 and put in place a multi-focal strategy to sustain and build upon our leadership through new launches, capacity addition, network expansion and brand-building initiatives." About Rs. 600 Cr would go into Hero's upcoming fourth manufacturing unit and global parts centre in Neemrana and around Rs. 100-150 Cr would go into an integrated R&D centre Kukas. Both the places are located in Rajasthan. The fourth plant would increase the total installed capacity from 7.5 to 7.65 million units per annum. The rest of the expenditure would be in the areas of IT instruments, existing plants and a proposed fifth plant in Gujarat. The FY2014 could witness launches of new and home grown products which are crucial to keep the lineup fresh. [Source: Economictimes.Indiatimes.com ]
[via Indian Motos Blog]
Follow us @automobileheat – lists / @sectorheat


text:
Anderson Silva didn't need to beg UFC president Dana White for a second go with new middleweight linchpin Chris Weidman following UFC 162.
Truth be told, White knew the rematch made sense for everyone—with the exception of Vitor Belfort, of course.
Silva didn't avoid implementing his typical razzle-dazzle game on Weidman at UFC 162."The Spider," however, couldn't mentally break Weidman, and he paid dearly for it, getting KO'd in the second round and surrendering the belt that he held for nearly seven years.
But akin to B.J. Penn and Frankie Edgar, who were the last two UFC fighters granted rematches immediately after losses in title fights, Silva deserves a chance at redemption.
Here are three reasons a rematch with Weidman is merited for The Spider.


text:
Schools & Colleges
A-Z Index | Find a Health Care Provider
Contact Us | Maps and Parking
Plantar Warts/Foot Warts
A plantar wart is a skin lesion that develops in response to a viral infection of the skin on the sole of the foot. Plantar warts are similar to warts that occur on other parts of the body. Because they are on a weight-bearing part of the body, such as the foot, they are usually deeper and appear flat rather than elevated from the surface of the skin.
Plantar warts spread by increasing in size and/or forming "satellite" lesions in the same or other areas of the foot.
Most treatments involve using a topical chemical applied to the wart, surgical excision, or medication that is injected into the wart to weaken the virus so that the body's immune system can then eliminate the wart. Some warts respond quickly to treatment, while others require many weeks or months of repeated treatments to allow the lesion to resolve.
While there are some over-the-counter medications to apply to the wart, medical treatment should be sought to rule out other skin changes that can affect the foot.
Athlete's FootPlantar Warts/Foot WartsPainful Heels/Plantar FasciitisCalcaneal ApophysitisSteroid/Cortisone InjectionCorns/CallusesIngrown ToenailsFoot Orthotics/Arch SupportsHyperhidrosisSesamoiditisNerve Entrapment/Morton's NeuromaPronationStress FracturesProper Shoe Fitting TechniquesWomen's Shoes
© The Regents of the University of Colorado, a body corporate. All rights reserved.
Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. All trademarks are registered property of the University. Used by permission only.


text:
Only I truly understand the truth
I've been very busy the last week blogging about many important topics, such as the need for a Marine landing in Nigeria, John Kerry's pedophiliac leanings (and he's also boring), as well as Al Gore's absurd statement that most newspapers and broadcast outlets are owned by five major corporations. So I haven't had a chance to comment on Michael Kinsley's stunning admission that, as a National Book Award judge in nonfiction, he failed to read all 402 entries. Now, I was once Mike's intern at The New Republic, and I can safely say that before he got all prissy on TV and got all chummy-chum with Bill Gates up there in special coffee land, he always read every single National Book Award nominee in every category. That was 12 years ago now, and he taught me a lifelong habit. I wasn't asked to judge this year's Book Awards, because the leftists who run the show are afraid of my ideas, but I still read all the books, and paid for them myself, too. So who is a better judge? After all, I'm out $10,000 of my own money. I can say without a compromised doubt that the best nonfiction book of the past year was Robert Caro's Lyndon Johnson: Master of the Senate. Wow. What a book. I've read it five times, and each time I find something new.
Yesterday brought an extreme flurry of excitement regarding my new book, which, by the way, can be preordered directly to your left from So New Media. But every day with me is a thrill ride in paradise, so keep reading.
Witness the best interview with me ever published. This appears in the current issue of the excellent web publication Bookslut, whose daily blog is essentially reading for book dorks who also hate Jonathan Safran Foer. Kenan Hebert, a rising American intellect, conducted the interview in a noisy Austin bar full of smoke and drunken frat boys. Somehow, he extracted many fascinating ideas from me, some of which were about rock, a topic about which I know nothing. Read it. Feel free to agree or disagree. But if you disagree, be warned. I will destroy you.


text:
With the playoffs safely out of reach for the Denver Broncos, it is time to look ahead to the 2011 draft.
The Denver Broncos have many glaring needs, specifically on the defensive side of the ball.
The Broncos' aging secondary, combined with its inexperienced defensive line, is cause for concern and will most likely be the first issue addressed.
Lets take a look at the possible options Denver will have at improving not only their defense, but their team as a whole as well.


text:
No IPTC Header found
By JAIME STUDD
Recorder News Staff
JOHNSTOWN -- Local officials gathered at Fulton-Montgomery Community College Thursday afternoon to take part in a roundtable discussion on the myriad ways in which regional economic and industrial development efforts can impact local municipalities.
Hosted by The Institute for Infrastructure Asset Management (IIAM) and lead by IIAM Executive Director Dimitri Grivas, the forum focused on the "paradox" created when the economic growth threatens to negatively impact the "livability and sustainability" of the communities it is meant to benefit.
"Development activities create unforeseen consequences to communities with no easy solutions," Grivas told forum attendees.
Before solutions could be offered, however, Grivas said it was critical to first be able to accurately define the scope of the problem.
"We cannot solve the problem if we don't have a clear vision of it," Grivas said. "Clearly a problem of this nature calls for a definition that is universally acceptable."
In the Fulton/Montgomery region, Grivas noted, increased development along the Route 30A corridor in Johnstown is threatening to impact both the quality of life and the infrastructure of the communities that lie between the growing industrial park and the New York State Thruway in Fultonville.
The negative effects, Grivas said, include increased traffic congestion, increased emissions and untold stresses being placed on local infrastructure, including roadways, water and sewer systems.
"Is the economic development effort budgeted adequately to also address the physical infrastructure," Grivas asked. "Who's going to pay for it?"
Adding to the difficulties in this region, Grivas said, is that the economic development and its impacts span several municipal boundaries.
Increased communication and a more "holistic approach" to the issue must be part of the solution, Grivas said.
"We should be looking at it from everybody's perspective," he said.
The forum also briefly discussed the proposed bypass as a possible solution. The two counties recently received word that they had been awarded a $400,000 grant to study the issue.
The grant, however, requires a local match of $100,000. Though Fulton County approved funding its $50,000 share, Montgomery County did not.
Fulton County Planning Director Jim Mraz said the counties' ability to address the issues created by increased economic development really comes down to little more than availability of resources.
"Most municipalities are struggling to find money to maintain their roads and buy sand and salt," Mraz said. "That's just a fiscal reality."
Grivas said the problem is not that there is a lack of available resources, noting the plethora of state and federal grants available. It's more that the local municipalities simply don't know how to ask.
"The problem that we see with municipalities is that they need money, but are without a planned approach to obtain funding," Grivas said.
Fonda Mayor Bill Peeler, who said he supports the bypass study, said his community's ability to upgrade and maintain its infrastructure has been severely crippled in recent years due, in most part, to the increased commercial traffic on Route 30A.
Peeler said the village has lost more than 100-percent of its property tax revenue as the result of having lost more than half its population in recent years. Peeler attributed that loss to quality of life issues.
"When we talk bout the entities that are benefiting on the Fulton County side, they do not benefit us in property taxes," Peeler said.
"What I think has happened is we fell asleep a little bit at the wheel," he added, explaining that the he did not believe economic development officials took into account the infrastructure and quality of life issues that would result from it.
Grivas agreed, saying those issues should have been taken into account from the start of the development growth and accountability for its impacts needs to be built into any economic development plan.
"The question is: Are you organized adequately as communities to deal with the challenges you face?" Grivas asked, adding that part of the solution has to create a more "two-countywide" strategic thinking.
"Money is obviously an issue, but I detect another issue, an underlying issue -- the issue of credibly asking for the money?"
Northampton Town Supervisor Linda Kemper argued, however, that she did not believe the manner in which the funding has been requested mattered as much as the size of the communities requesting it.
Kemper said the regional economic development councils are structured specifically to benefit the larger communities.
"It's not even feasible," said Kemper. "We can't compete, plain and simple."
The group plans to meet again early next year. Participants were asked to return with lists outline the specific needs of their community. Funding opportunities are also expected to be discussed.


text:
Check! 10 Must-Dos for a Saner Holiday Season
- Next1 of 11Tom Merton/Getty Images
- Previous Next2 of 11Jamie Grill/Getty Images
- Previous Next3 of 11Eternity in an Instant/Getty Images
- Previous Next4 of 11RapidEye/Getty Images
- Previous Next5 of 11Tom Merton/Getty Images
- Previous Next6 of 11Yagi Studio/Getty Images
- Previous Next7 of 11Deborah Jaffe/Getty images
- Previous Next8 of 11Tom Merton/Getty Images
- Previous Next9 of 11Dan Duchars/Getty Images
- Previous Next10 of 11George Doyle/Getty Images
- Previous Next11 of 11Joseph Clark/Getty Images
Get It Done1 of 11
By Andie Huber and Shannan Rouss
Don't wait until the last minute to get into holiday mode. We're giving you an easy head start with ten things you can check off your list—starting today.
Check the Calendar2 of 11
Take a good look at the months of November and December. While Christmas is always on the 25th, this year it falls on a Thursday. If you need to take time off of work, then put in your request now. And if you have kids, check their winter break schedule to figure out whether you'll need to plan for childcare.
Create a Budget3 of 11
To give you some context on holiday spending, The National Retail Foundation estimates that the average shopper will spend $738 on gifts, decor, cards and more. Whether you're planning to spend more or less than the average, a budget is a must. To keep the number within reason, talk to your co-workers about doing a Secret Santa instead of buying individual gifts for everyone. You can also do the same with family members—after all buying (and receiving) one nice gift is far better than going home with scented lotions, a martini shaker and more things you don't really need.
Book Your Flights4 of 11
Still haven't secured your flight for Turkey Day? According to Cheapair.com, the most expensive fares will be on Wednesday-through-Sunday flights. If you can, try traveling Monday through Friday to save up to $208 per ticket.
Schedule "Me" Time5 of 11
While the holidays are about family and everyone else, plan some "me" time before the madness begins—whether it's a massage, a pedicure or just curling up with a good book. Taking time for yourself will give you that extra boost to get through the holidays, gracefully.
Make Up6 of 11
Barely spoken to your sis since last Thanksgiving's spat? Reach out with a phone call or letter before making the trip home. Hopefully, she'll appreciate the gesture. And even if it doesn't entirely heal past hurts, you can at least be civil to each other—and avoid any drama—during the family festivities.
ON MOM.ME: 10 Life-Changing Family Secrets Exposed
Break Up?7 of 11
If you've been dating someone casually, then the holiday season is make-or-break time for the relationship. After all, do you really want to endure an awkward gift-exchange with a guy you're lukewarm on? Instead, call it quits now—before he invites you to his office holiday party.
Get Gift Wrap8 of 11
If you didn't purchase extra gift wrap during the post-holiday sales last year, take inventory of your current stash and purchase extra now. You don't want to run out in the middle of a marathon gift-wrapping session and be forced to deal with the holiday crush.
Winterize Your Home9 of 11
Avoid disastrous problems in the middle of the holiday season: Schedule maintenance calls for boilers and fireplaces; clean out your gutters and turn off outside water sources. Program thermostats—ideally at 68 degrees while you are home and a lower temperature while you are away or during the night when you are sleeping.
ON MOM.ME: The 25 Best Slow Cooker Chicken Recipes
Stock Up on Sundries10 of 11
While grocery shopping in the next couple of weeks, pay attention to when favorite items like beer, wine, and frozen foods go on sale—and stock up. You'll always be prepared for when unexpected guests drop by and for all those holiday parties you'll be attending. Just remember to keep a list handy so you know how much stock you actually have!
ON MOM.ME: 5 Secrets To Hosting The Best Cocktail Party
Turn On the Tunes11 of 11
Not ready to drag out the ornaments and untangle the lights just yet? Start small by downloading this year's holiday tunes. Get into the spirit of the season with Kelly Clarkson's first holiday album Wrapped in Red and Mary J. Blige's A Mary Christmas, both available this month.
NEXT ON GLO: The Lazy Person's Guide To Holiday Decorating


text: Join Pixologic and the Academy of Art University, for an evening of digital clay exploration. This is a rare opportunity to sit with members of the Pixologic Team, as they detail various workflows and functionality inside ZBrush 4R4. Instructor Dave Wolf will also be in attendance, demonstrating the use of ZBrush for illustration. Keep your ears to the street for more events featuring industry artists and members of the Pixologic Team. Visit the user group page for updates and recaps of the latest shindigs. We always excited to meet members of the community. For more in-depth video tutorials on features and functions inside ZBrush, visit ZClassroom.


text:
One Shoulder Floor Length Dress
Long one shoulder formal dress with embellished strap, open back, and front slit.
Unfortunately, the dress you are looking for (
Style: MF-E1500
Name: One Shoulder Floor Length Dress
) is no longer available at PromGirl.
Don't worry, we have lots more dresses to choose from! See below for other suggestions that we think you will love!


text:
William R. Callahan Jr.October 08,2013
William R. Callahan Jr.
March 23, 1953-Oct. 2, 2013
WATERBURY William R. Billy Callahan Jr. was 60 years old and was born to William Rex Callahan Sr. and Julia Judy (Draper) Callahan.
He was married to Linda Thayer and later divorced. They had two children, Lorettalynn Callahan and Edward Elvis Callahan, of Waterbury; one grandson, Matthew Moulton, of Waitsfield; two granddaughters, Michaela Moulton, of Waitsfield, and Kylie Muzzy, of New York; his mother and a sister, Mary Forkey, of Waterbury; one niece, Nancy Forkey; five nephews, Edward Forkey III, James Forkey, Mark Forkey, Christopher Forkey and John Forkey Jr. He was predeceased by his father; a sister, Betty Forkey; and a brother-in-law, Edward Forkey Jr.
May you rest in peace.
You will sadly be missed and never forgotten.MORE IN ObituariesJosephine Lubas
WHITING, N.J. Josephine Elaine (Kasnowski) Lubas died Friday, Nov. Full StoryMontpelier, VT - Irene Stotts, at the age of 92, passed away with family by her side as the sun... Full StoryWhite River Jct., Vermont Robert E. Ammel Jr. Full Story
- Most Popular
- Most Emailed


text:
Why can't you solve the equation?
I came across this question in Cambridge. I tried for ages, and I couldn't get it.
For the equation x^2 = 5x - 8, find the value of a^(1/3) + b^(1/3), where a and b are the roots of the equation, without solving the equation.
The equation is . If a and b are roots of that equation, then so we must have a+ b= 5 and ab= 8. Now we can use which, with a+ b= 5, ab= 8 becomes .
Now, look at the fact that [tex](a^{1/3}+ b^{1/3})^2= a^{2/3}+ 2(ab)^{1/3}+ b^{2/3}= 4+ a^{2/3}+ b^{2/3}. That is, . Putting that into the previous equation, and letting we have or .
We are still not to the bottom of this question.
Sorry HallsofIvy, but you lost a negative sign in your factorisation of the middle term in the second bracket should be negative.
Following that through I think that the equation at the end should be
This has an obvious solution of and the other two are then found to be and (4dp).
I suppose that it is the positive root that we are looking for.


text:
Red Flag 1
It's great getting off to a 5-2 start, ESPECIALLY when your expected closest competitor, the Angels, stumble out of the gate at 2-4.
But Rangers fans are glass half empty kind of people. There's always danger lurking in the shadows. So it is that a nice successful homestand has the home fans happy, yet already worried about one thing: Joe Nathan.
The way they see it is this: Were it not for Joe Nathan, Texas would be 7-0 right now instead of 5-2. Nathan has taken both of the Rangers' 2012 losses thus far and accounted Wednesday for their first blown save of the year. They will also turn to the fact Thursday's afternoon finale against the Mariners had Mike Adams picking up the save and not Nathan as a sign the Rangers are already regretting their decision to sign the former Twins closer to a two-year deal.
While I'm not thrilled that both losses have come with Nathan in the game, I don't think it's time to push the panic button yet, the way the Rangers did two years ago when Frank Francisco blew his first two save opportunities and was replaced in the first week by Neftali Feliz.
In Francisco's case, he had been somewhat inconsistent in 2009 as well, splitting closing chores with CJ Wilson. The Rangers were in their first year with high expectations and they were quick to pull the trigger on Francisco.
In Nathan's case, while he has lost both the Rangers games thus far, he also has saved two games, both in impressive fashion. While Wednesday's blown save and loss was a true clunker (3 runs in one inning pitched), his first loss was in a tie game with one misplaced pitch being punished. He wasn't brought in to the 9th inning Thursday because it would have been three straight games for him to pitch, with the third being a day game after a night game.
A two-year contract means Nathan will be given some slack by Rangers management to get it together. Meanwhile, Adams and Alexi Ogando remain ready as quality back-up plans should Nathan continue to struggle. With solutions like that, this isn't a bad problem to have.
The first road series of the year begins tonight in Minnesota. The Twins aren't expected to do much in 2012, but playing in Minnesota has been problematic for these Rangers over the past couple of years, whether it be at the old Metrodome or the new Target Field. The Twins took two of three at home against the Angels, so Texas can't take anything for granted.
If there's a save to be garnered tonight, though, Joe Nathan will get first crack at it.
2 Comments
I will say that my one cause for concern with Nathan is that both losses that he has accrued have come when pitching 2 days in a row, unless we plan to have him and Adams and Ogando share the role, that is something that as a closer doesn't fly. Most closers are asked regularly to come in and make saves multiple days in a row, so for him to not be able to do it on consecutive days is a bit of a concern. Maybe as the season matures he will settle down and be able to handle it, I'm just saying why Nathan at this moment concerns me. But, as you have said the season is young and there is still a lot of baseball to be played.


text:
Opinie gości
Wszystkie opinie
W parze
Z rodziną
W pojedynkę
Holiday Hotel is a beachfront property located in central San Pedro. The property offers massage services upon request, has a dive shop on site, as well as a restaurant-bar. Free Wi-Fi access is available. The functional rooms provide air conditioning, a safe and plenty of natural light. Featuring a shower, private bathrooms also come with towels and linen. You can enjoy a sea view from all the rooms. Besides the restaurant on site that offers deli snacks, guests can also explore the restaurant options available within 66 feet. Other facilities offered include a tour desk, shops in hotel and laundry services. An array of activities can be enjoyed on site or in the surroundings, including diving by the coral reef. San Pedro Domestic airport can be reached in a short 10-minute walk.


text:
Kim Zolciak reveals her size 4 post-baby body just 9 days after giving birth to twins. The amazing photo reveals she has already gotten her figure back.
The 35-year-old former 'Real Housewives of Atlanta' star just gave birth days ago and announced the two new additions to her family, with her husband Kroy Biermann: "We are officially the 'Biermann Bunch' now! Guess what?!!! The twins have arrived! We welcomed first a baby girl and second a handsome little boy! They are both healthy and Kroy and I are so thankful!!"
While that's always cheerful news, several days later — just nine days to be exact — she took a selfie and her 16-year-old daughter Brielle Tweeted it saying: "How is my mom a size 4…it's been 9 days since she gave birth to twins."
There's no doubt she looks fabulous. It was not long ago that, at nine months pregnant she Tweeted a photo of herself in a bikini revealing her baby bump, which you can see below.
Kim Zolciak is now the mother of six and clearly she has a knack for getting back in shape quickly after giving birth. Is there a weight loss secrets book or DVD is the works? She leaves other women quite curious as to how she does it.
Whether genetics, luck or some not-yet-disclosed secret, she is a mother several times over. In addition to her oldest daughter, Brielle, she also has another daughter, 11-year-old Ariana. Both are from a previous relationship. With current husband Kroy Biermann she has two-year-old Kroy Jr., 15-month-old Kash Kade, as well as the two newborn twins, Kane Ren, a boy, and Kaia Rose, a girl.
And she is the still-svelte mother of them all! In fact, just two days after Kim Zolciak gave birth she and her husband were spotted out and about with the twins. You can see the pictures here.
Check out her before and after selfies below!
Photos: Kim Zolciak
Credit: Twitter
(Click twice to enlarge)


text:
Welcome to Renewal College Fellowship!
The vision of Renewal College Fellowship is that one would be able to hear the Gospel, grow in Christ, be nurtured and equipped for ministry and then mobilized to build His kingdom. It is our hope that this would be accomplished through the caring RCF Christian community all for the glory of God. Through the community given at the university, students will be able to worship, pray, and have Bible-study with fellow peers. Renewal doors are wide open to people from all backgrounds. Regardless of where a student is at on his/her spiritual journey, Renewal can be a place where one can grow.
Renewal meets in a few different ways:
Dr. Daniel Hussar, Advisor


text:
It's not often that my wife invests more than a cursory glance at food blogs, and even rarer that she essentially presents a recipe to me with puppy eyes and makes noises about how that would be soooo delicious. Well, that's what happened with this gorgeous recipe from The Novice Chef. Now, I do like me some Nutella. And it just so happened that our 2.5 year wedding anniversary was around the corner and I had planned a date day out, movie and all. Except, you know, this recipe involves baking, and that is where I broke into a cold sweat.
But I love my wife. And there was Nutella involved. So I braved all elements and did my very best. It wasn't the prettiest thing ever, but it was delicious. I made only the slightest modifications to the original recipe, one being that I apparently didn't roll the dough enough or that I simply got a different amount of dough, so I ended up with 5 instead of 6 poptarts. One broke in half when I took it out of the oven so clearly it was meant to be and divided perfectly.
-1 egg yolk
-1 teaspoon water
-1 frozen pack of two pie shells
- 5 heaping teaspoons Nutella
- 5 heaping teaspoons strawberry jelly
- 2 large strawberries, sliced lengthwise and carved into hearts
- Swerve granulated sugar substitute
1. Preheat oven to 350°F and cover a cookie sheet with parchment paper. Roll out pie crust thinly and cut out 2.5 inch x 3.5 inch rectangles. In my case, that'll yield 10 rectangles, 5 of which I cut a heart out of (I used the strawberry hearts I sliced to make sure to get the right size & shape for the heart cut-outs.
2. On the 5 whole rectangles, first spread Nutella, leaving a 1/4 inch border around the edges, then add the jam, again making sure to leave a 1/4 inch border. It will get messy otherwise.
3. Layer on the rectangles with the carved out hearts and seal the edges with a fork or your fingernails. Place a strawberry heart into the heart space you cut out of the top dough layer.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolk and 1 teaspoon water, then brush on the mixture on top of the poptarts. Sprinkle with sugar substitute.
5. Bake for 14 minutes. Transfer to a cooling rack. Let cool for 5 minutes and then serve! They may crumble, but it's so, so good!
What's your favorite poptart filling? Have you ever made romantic breakfast?


text:
You are Here:
Publications & Fact Sheets
/ 2011 Annual Report Illinois River
Loading Tree...
NRCS received funding for a water quality initiative in the Illinois River Sub-Basin and the Eucha-Spavinaw Lake Watershed in northwestern Arkansas and northeastern Oklahoma.
The purpose of the project is to improve water quality of the Illinois River Sub-Basin and Eucha-Spavinaw Lake Watershed (which include Lake Tenkiller, Lake Eucha and Lake Spavinaw in Oklahoma) while maintaining the food and fiber production in the area.
Water quality enhancement is crucial to ensuring an adequate supply of drinkable water for the urban center of Tulsa, Okla., as well as the many smaller municipalities and individuals who rely on these water resources for their water supply.
Improving water quality will benefit recreational industries since the Illinois River is a designated scenic river.
The project is located in portions of Benton and Washington counties in Arkansas and parts of Adair, Cherokee, Delaware, Mayes and Sequoyah counties in Oklahoma.
Funding will be used to assist landowners in the 1.32 million acre area over an eight-year period. The area includes 576,517 acres in Arkansas and 739,156 acres in Oklahoma.
NRCS and its conservation partners plan to further treat and reduce water quality resource concerns through conservation practices which will avoid, control, and trap the nutrients and sediments. The combination of these kinds of practices both upland from and adjacent to the water bodies will be highly beneficial to the water resources in the area.
Data Source: ProTracts FY11, Oct. 1, 2011
NRCS Home | USDA.gov | Site Map | Civil Rights | FOIA | Plain Writing | Accessibility Statement
Privacy Policy| Non-Discrimination Statement | Information Quality | USA.gov | Whitehouse.gov


text:
|12 years ago
|13 months ago
|7 years ago
|admin (Blaze Fabry)
|Continental USA
Founder and President of Chinavestor.com. I am a Fulbirght scholar, MBA and M.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering. Plus I like politics, economics and related subjects.
I have been following Chinese ADRs since 2003. I am an active investor and have holdings in China stocks from time to time.
|Friday, 15 June 2007
|US should look beyond China on current acct
|Friday, 17 August 2007
|US Stock Futures Decline as Investors Watch Sharp Declines in Equities Overseas
|Tuesday, 12 July 2005
|US stocks seen little changed as oil edges up
|Thursday, 21 July 2005
|US stocks slip after yuan revalued; Wal-Mart falls
|Friday, 14 October 2005
|US stocks up on GE earnings; bonds, dlr, oil dip
|Wednesday, 19 December 2007
|US STOCKS-S&P futures trim losses on China/Morgan Stanley news
|Saturday, 10 June 2006
|US trade deficit widens as oil, Chinese imports rise
|Monday, 14 November 2005
|US trade deficit with China to top $200 billion
|Friday, 10 February 2006
|US trade gap widens, sets record in 2005
|Wednesday, 26 October 2005
|US Treasury's Snow-Duties wrong way on China yuan
|Thursday, 07 February 2008
|US's Paulson: China yuan bill "bordering on silly"
|Saturday, 05 November 2005
|US's Snow says China can move faster on forex
|Monday, 04 May 2009
|US, China data take HK shares to 6 � month high
|Friday, 16 November 2007
|US, China Working on Pact to Promote Biofuels, Plan Could Be Announced Next Month
|Thursday, 11 September 2008
|US-China trade talks set for next week in California
|Friday, 17 March 2006
|UTAC, SMIC Chengdu JV Plant Has Started Operations
|Friday, 11 November 2011
|Utilities shine but capital goods sink
|Sunday, 10 June 2012
|Utilities, tech and transport stocks shine
|Friday, 12 March 2010
|UTStarcom 2009 Q4 - not investment grade
|Wednesday, 05 May 2010
|UTStarcom 2010 first quarter: Foughethaboutit


text:
Meet the Stars of the NHRA Mello Yello Series
Read full bios on all the series regulars, including major accomplishments, best runs, hobbies, and more, plus team and driver Twitter account info on the social media page.
NitroMall is your one-stop spot for official NHRA merchandise, products from some of the teams of the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series, and more. The NHRA Store is the place to join NHRA and purchase specialty items and DVDs, and the NHRA Museum Store has items to satisfy history buffs, from vintage T-shirts to historical books.
Tennessee will always be home, but Florida is quickly becoming a home away from home for my wife Pam and I. Last time I blogged, we were down in Sanibel, Fla., and we are getting ready to head back this weekend. It's such a beautiful place and we really enjoy our new house. After Las Vegas, we were able to spend a full week in Sanibel and had a great time. We went out on the boat for a day, went to a birthday party and had some company as well. It was just an awesome time. The weather was perfect and we were able to celebrate my Las Vegas win a little as well.
The week in Florida went by fast and it was time to head home to Greeneville on Saturday night for Easter. We got up early to go to church on Sunday and then had our family over for the whole day. It was great to have everyone in the same place and get to spend time together.
Following Easter, it was time to climb back in my Mopar Dodge Avenger for the NHRA 4-Wide Nationals in Charlotte. That is a very challenging event in a number of ways. As a driver, you have to really get focused and change how you're used to doing things, especially at the starting line. The level of concentration that it takes is amazing. Every single driver screws up at least once during the weekend. Whether it's looking at the wrong bulb on the tree or having something crazy happen, everyone gets bitten at least once. Several of those instances happened in all three classes over the weekend. Fortunately, nothing like that happened to us on Sunday.
We started the weekend very strong and came pretty close to topping the charts in qualifying and ended up second on Saturday. Dad and the engine guys are making great power with these Mopar HEMI engines that we run. My crew chief, Mark Ingersoll and our team engineer, Jim Yates, have our Mopar sorted out and it's very fast right now. We have a great package right now. We had one of the two cars to beat at Charlotte and just didn't get the job done. We made a boo-boo in the second round and shook the tires.
We stayed over in Charlotte on Monday to test and worked through a few of the issues we were having. We had a little blip in the car that we wanted to figure out and what we learned testing will benefit us when we go back to Charlotte in the fall, as well as at all the tracks we are going to the rest of the season. Everyone on the crew is working so hard right now and doing such an amazing job.
After a couple of days home this week, we'll head back down to Sanibel on Friday. We will be taking some of our friends from Greeneville with us, and it will be their first time down there, so we'll do our best to help them get the full Sanibel experience. I think they'll have a great time and will want to go back again for sure.
I'll fly from Florida to Houston next Thursday, as I'll be playing in the Darrell Russell Memorial Golf Tournament with the Mopar/JEGS team later that day. I'm really looking forward to that. I've golfed a couple of times since the surgery on my right bicep last fall and I'm getting the hang of it back, but my swing and game are still not quite where they need to be. I'll get to play a little more now, so I'll get back to where I was in time.
Speaking of my surgery, it's been a while since I've given an update on my arm. The doctors say it will probably take a year to fully heal, so it's probably 80 percent right now. I can work out with it and do just about anything I did before. I just have to make sure to not fall on it or yank any super heavy weights or anything like that, which could tear it back loose.
After some R&R this weekend, we'll put our game face back on and head to Houston, as we look for our second win of the season in our Mopar Dodge Avenger.


text:
In October 2010, film director and Ohio State University graduate Don Handfield became the first person to film scenes on the field of the Horseshoe during a game. That day, OSU beat Purdue 49-0.
If only that same success had translated over to "Touchback," a Capra-esque flick about football and small-town life that's too sentimental for its own good.
A former high school football phenom sidelined by a career-ending injury during his senior year, Scott (Brian Presley) has turned into a small-town farmer facing foreclosure in a down economy.
Blatantly cribbing from "It's a Wonderful Life," a suicide attempt goes wrong and Scott is given a chance to redo his final high school game.
Handfield, who also wrote the film's screenplay, has created an overly safe but competent environment for his first feature film. Every major sequence is telegraphed well before the scenes actually show up.
The film's other major flaw is casting a group of 30-somethings to play high school seniors. It's too distracting to pretend that 35-year-old Presley and 40-year-old "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" vet Marc Blucas are actually teenagers.
Some of the older actors fare a little better, including Kurt Russell and Christine Lahti. And even though she doesn't resemble a teenager, Melanie Lynskey turns in a terrific performance as Scott's wife.


text:
Workshops, Conferences and Events
in the Classroom
& Travel
12-13, 2009
intersection in 2009 of the Year of Science, the International Year
of Astronomy, and the 120th anniversary meeting of the ASP provides
a singular opportunity to showcase science and to provide professional
development opportunities for those working on the front lines of
science education and outreach. As part of the ASP's annual meeting,
we are pleased to offer a series of workshops and events for teachers,
informal educators, and amateur astronomers engaged in public outreach
on the weekend prior to the start of the meeting.
Educator Workshops (Sat/Sun)
Astronomy 101 Workshop
Informal Educator Workshops (Sat/Sun)
Amateur Astronomer Workshops/Events (Sat/Sun)
SETI Institute Speaker Series (Sun)
Schedule Overview
To Register
pre-registration for Astronomical Society of the Pacific Annual
Meeting is closed. Those wishing to attend the conference
proper on Sep. 13-16 can register on-site at the Westin SFO, the
conference hotel, at the ASP conference registration table. Those
wishing to register for the Saturday, Sep. 12 AANC meeting can register
on-site at the AANC registration table. Those wishing to register
for the Sep 12-13 weekend workshops can register on-site at the
ASP registration table as long as workshop slots remain.
Educator Workshops
the Year of Science into your classroom: participate in a two-day
weekend professional development event led by science education
teams from NASA- and NSF-funded education and public outreach (EPO)
programs, the Astronomical Society of the Pacific (ASP), and other
education professionals.
Saturday and Sunday, September 12-13, 2009.
Place: Westin SFO Hotel, Millbrae, California.
Workshop Fee: $39.95/day.
Total hours: 7 1/2 hours for one day, 15 hours for two days.
Participants may attend one day (either day) or both.
Meals on your own.
Credit Available
15-hour unit of academic credit is available to workshop participants
through San Francisco State University (SFSU) for those teachers
desiring it. While teachers may attend one day of workshops and
either day, attendance for both days is necessary to meet the requirements
for receiving the unit of credit.
requirements for obtaining the unit of credit are as follows:
Attendance at Saturday workshops (7.5 hours).
Attendance at Sunday morning workshops plus the afternoon SETI Speaker
Series (7.5 hours).
Writing a short paper regarding implementation of workshop content
and methodologies into the classroom, due October 1 at the ASP education
Filling out the San Francisco State University course registration
form and providing the $100 credit fee to SFSU—on site at
the workshops in September. (Note that this fee is an SFSU course
credit fee, and is separate from the workshop fee.)
the content and activities presented in the workshops are primarily
targeted for formal educators teaching grades 4-12, with different
content areas covering different grade ranges according to national
and local science standards, anyone interested in education is welcome
to register and attend for his/her enrichment.
will have several strands from which to choose to match their needs
and interests. Each strand will include current content, hands-on
activities and approaches to teaching science that can help teachers
to meet their curriculum and science standards goals. The workshops
will also provide a variety of take-home materials.
(Choose a Strand)
One: In the Footsteps of Galileo: Training Program for Teachers
in Grades 3 - 12 (Sat. & Half of Sun.)
Fraknoi (Foothill College & ASP), Moderator
Dennis Schatz (Pacific Science Center and winner of the 2009 Faraday
Award of the National Association
of Science Teachers)
Dr. Constance Walker (NOAO and Coordinator of the Globe at Night
Robert Sparks (NOAO)
this workshop, we will train the first group of U.S. Galileo Ambassadors
for the International Year of Astronomy (2009). Teachers in grades
4 - 12 will learn how to do age-appropriate, hands-on, inquiry-based
activities in astronomy and physical science. After a brief introduction
to Galileo's life and work and the realms of astronomy, participants
will explore:
A Private Universe: Student Reasoning and Helping Students to
Act Like Scientists
2. The Moons of Jupiter activity and the Process of Science
3. The Phases and Motions of the Moon
4. Making a Constellation Finder and Getting Oriented in the Night
5. Measuring the Dark: Activities to Understand Light Pollution
6. The Galileoscope: A Telescope for All Seasons and All Reasons
7. The Universe at Your Fingertips: Where to Find the Best Astronomy
Activities in Print and on the Web
A Private Universe: Student Reasoning and Helping Students to
Act Like Scientists
2. The Moons of Jupiter activity and the Process of Science
3. The Phases and Motions of the Moon
4. Making a Constellation Finder and Getting Oriented in the Night
5. Measuring the Dark: Activities to Understand Light Pollution
6. The Galileoscope: A Telescope for All Seasons and All Reasons
7. The Universe at Your Fingertips: Where to Find the Best Astronomy
Activities in Print and on the Web
Participants will receive a free GalileoScope (a small telescope
especially developed for easy public viewing during the International
Year of Astronomy) and package of activities and resource guides
that can be put to immediate use in the classroom. No background
in astronomy will be assumed, although both new and veteran teachers
should gain new information and techniques from the workshop.
8-11:45 am, and 1:15-5 pm, with an hour and a half break for lunch
on your own.
Two: Of the Moon, On the Moon, From the Moon
Daou, Director for Education and Public Outreach, NASA Lunar Science
Institute, NASA Ames Research Center
Dr. Stephanie Shipp, NLSI Team EPO Lead, Lunar and Planetary Institute
Christine Shupla, Lunar and Planetary Institute Jaclyn Allen, NLSI
Team EPO Co-Lead, NASA Johnson Space
Center, Astromaterials Research Exploration Science
Dr. Emily CoBabe-Ammann, NLSI Team EPO Lead, Laboratory for Atmospheric
and Space Physics, University of Colorado
Dr. Douglas Duncan, NLSI Team EPO Lead, Department of Astrophysical
and Planetary Sciences, University
of Colorado
Dr. Laura Peticolas, Center for Science Education, Space Sciences
Laboratory, University of California
at Berkeley
Brian Day, E/PO Lead, Lunar Crater Observation and Sensing Satellite
Mission, NASA Ames Research Center
Lora Bleacher, NLSI Team EPO Lead, Science Systems And Applications
past few years have witnessed a renewed focus on lunar science and
exploration; today's students will be the generation that lives
and works on the Moon! As a result, the Education and Public Outreach
community has a plethora of new educational resources related to
the science and technologies of lunar exploration – and new
ways for students and teachers to become involved. The NASA Lunar
Science Institute was created by NASA to supplement and extend existing
NASA lunar programs. Its science topics are related to science "of
the Moon," "on the Moon," and "from the Moon."
In this hands-on workshop, participants will explore cutting edge
science results about how our Moon formed and has changed through
time, how scientists study the Moon, the challenges facing a human
presence on the Moon, and present and future lunar missions. NASA
educators and scientists will share new lunar products, resources,
and opportunities for teaching and learning about these topics.
All activities are connected to key concepts in the national and
California science education standards for the 6th, 7th and 8th
grades. Participants will receive lesson plans and other resources,
and have access to all PowerPoint presentations. Join us to explore
the Moon!
Three: Earth and Sun: Exploring Dynamic Systems
McQuillan, Incorporated Research Institutions for Seismology
Kevin Ward, NASA Earth Observatory, Science Systems And Applications
Dr. Laura Peticolas, Center for Science Education, Space Sciences
Laboratory, University of California
at Berkeley
Lindsay Bartolone, Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum
and NSF-sponsored education teams will focus on geosciences, Earth,
Sun, and Sun-Earth relationships in this hands-on workshop providing
the latest results, educational activities and teaching strategies
for presenting the Earth and its cosmic context in the classroom.
Morning (Choose a Strand)
One: Galileo Teacher Training Program – continues
from Saturday
8-11:30 am.
Two: Discovering Our Place in the Universe
Dussault, Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics
Lindsay Bartolone, Adler Planetarium & Astronomy Museum
Pamela Harman, SETI Institute
Alan Gould, Lawrence Hall of Science
Dr. Frank Summers, Space Telescope Science Institute
Dr. Denise Smith, Space Telescope Science Institute
planets, galaxies, and more! How do we know what makes up our universe?
How can we help students investigate and discover the universe for
themselves? Come join NASA educators and scientists in a hands-on
workshop that will explore strategies for teaching and learning
key concepts in national and California science education standards:
models and evidence, conducting investigations, and Earth's place
in the universe. Learn about some of the newest scientific explorations
of the cosmos with NASA's Hubble Space Telescope, its planet-finding
Kepler mission, the NASA/ESA Planck mission, and its future Wide-field
Infrared Survey Explorer and James Webb Space Telescope missions,
while considering how these space-based telescopes extend the legacy
of observation and discovery that Galileo Galilei and Johannes Kepler
initiated in 1609. After participating in this workshop, participants
will be able to identify examples of common student misconceptions
about Earth's place in the solar system and universe, describe how
knowledge of the electromagnetic spectrum and optics are essential
to investigations of Earth's place in the universe, and summarize
how their own mental model of the universe has changed. Participants
will receive free NASA curriculum support materials and other resources.
8-11:30 am.
Three: Life on Earth…and Elsewhere?
David Grinspoon, Denver Museum of Nature and Science and NASA Astrobiology
Monica Brelsford, Montana State University and NASA Astrobiology
Dr. Julie Edmonds, Carnegie Institution of Science and NASA Astrobiology
Pamela Harman, SETI Institute and NASA Astrobiology Institute
Daniella Scalice, NASA Astrobiology Institute
we alone? How did life on Earth originate and evolve? How are we
searching for life beyond Earth, and will we know it if we find
it? Astrobiology is the study of the origins, evolution, distribution,
and future of life in the universe. In this 3.5-hour workshop, NASA
astrobiology educators will present an overview of astrobiology,
examining life in extreme environments and potential habitats for
life elsewhere in the solar system and beyond. Several hands-on,
classroom-ready activities will also be demonstrated and distributed.
Afternoon (SETI Speakers Series)
Strand: Expand your mind and your perspective with a concluding
afternoon of engaging talks by scientists and researchers from the
SETI Institute, from 1-5 pm. (See SETI SUNDAY
section below for details.)
101 Workshop
Lecturing – How to Increase Student Intellectual Engagement
and Understanding During the Lecture Portion of Your Class
E. Prather, Center for Astronomy Education (CAE), Steward Observatory,
Department of Astronomy, University
of Arizona
Gina Brissenden, Center for Astronomy Education (CAE), Steward Observatory,
Department of Astronomy, University
of Arizona
this participation-based workshop, we will work collaboratively
through instructional strategies proven to move students from an
intellectually passive to an active role in the LECTURE portion
of the classroom. Members of the Center for Astronomy Education
(CAE) at the University of Arizona have been conducting rigorous
classroom evaluation of research-validated curriculum designed to
actively engage students learning during the traditional lecture
portion of the classroom. Participants will be given first-hand
experience with several different instructional strategies (appropriate
for their classrooms) that represent a wide range of instructional
investment. Active audience participation will be required—no,
really, it will be fun, really!!
Saturday, September 12, 2009.
Place: Westin SFO Hotel, Millbrae, California.
Workshop Fee: $39.95/day.
Time: 8-11:45 am, and 1:15-5 pm, with an hour and a half
break for lunch on your own.
Educator Workshops
up new tips and hone your skills for presenting science in informal
settings in workshops designed for planetarians, museum and science/nature
center educators, and other informal educators working in informal
settings. The workshop will be led by ASP staffers, NASA- and NSF-sponsored
professionals, and special guest presenters.
Saturday and Sunday, September 12-13, 2009.
Place: Westin SFO Hotel, Millbrae, California.
Workshop Fee: $39.95/day.
Meals on your own.
from the Ground Up - Down to Earth Activities for Museums and Nature
Hurst, Astronomical Society of the Pacific
Suzanne Gurton, Astronomical Society of the Pacific
Paul Nelson, Astronomical Society of the Pacific
Lindsay Bartolone, Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum
Dr. Constance Walker (NOAO and Coordinator of the Globe at Night
Robert Sparks (NOAO)
about offering astronomy programs, but don't know where to start?
Already offering astronomy to your visitors, but want to go further?
Looking for complementary activities to support your planetarium
shows and observing sessions? The presenters will share their favorite
well-tested hands-on activities and techniques for bringing the
excitement of astronomy to the public in informal settings such
as museums and nature centers, so that you can get your astronomy
program off the ground or revitalize the programs you already offer.
Participants will be invited to join a thriving online community
of over 400 informal astronomy educators, for access to additional
activities, learning opportunities, and continued networking. This
workshop is appropriate for astronomy novices as well as veterans
looking new ideas, and is specifically designed for educators from
informal settings.
8-11:30 am, and 1:15 -5 pm, with an hour and a half break for lunch
on your own.
Sunday Morning
Science Like A Story
O'Callahan, Master Storyteller
Anna Hurst, Astronomical Society of the Pacific
Suzanne Gurton, Astronomical Society of the Pacific
master storyteller, Jay O'Callahan to learn how to use the timeless
art of storytelling to communicate science. Jay O'Callahan is one
of the world's best-known storytellers. He has performed at Lincoln
Center, at the Abbey Theatre in Dublin and other theatres around
the world, at the Olympics, and with the Boston Symphony Orchestra.
His work appears regularly on National Public Radio. He also is
an amazing workshop facilitator, bringing sparks of inspiration
out in all participants. Storytelling is a highly effective communication
tool and one of the most economical types of programs to run. The
workshop will cover basic storytelling techniques that can be incorporated
into science lessons and programs. This is a continuation of the
Astronomy from the Ground up workshop on Saturday but is appropriate
for both informal science educators and classroom teachers.
Sunday Afternoon (SETI Speakers Series)
your mind and your perspective with a concluding afternoon of engaging
talks by scientists and researchers from the SETI Institute, from
1-5 pm. (See SETI SUNDAY section below for details.)
Astronomer Workshops/Events
Join other amateur astronomers for a day-long meeting of the Astronomical
Association of Northern California to learn and share new information
and techniques, and enhance your public outreach skills in a special
Sunday morning workshop with and afternoon of speakers from the
SETI Institute to stretch your mind.
Saturday and Sunday, September 12-13, 2009.
Place: Westin SFO Hotel, Millbrae, California.
Fee: $39.95/day.
Meals on your own.
Association of Northern California (AANC) Meeting
fellow amateur astronomers for a full day of astronomy lectures,
demonstrations and activities, followed by nighttime stargazing
through an impressive array of telescopes.
Daytime activities include sun-viewing through safe solar telescopes,
and opportunities to meet and speak with representatives from local
astronomy clubs and dealers. There will also be an astronomy raffle
offering cool prizes.
more information on the AANC meeting, including a detailed schedule
of events, visit http://aancstars2009.org/schedule.shtml.
(Note that there is a separate registration form for registering
for this meeting, but the registration fee is the same as the day
rate for workshops.)
9:30-5 pm, with lunch on your own. (Note that there is a brown-bag
lunch workshop at 12:15 pm.) The evening star party runs from 6:30
to 9:15 pm.
Amateur Workshop:
1: Moon Outreach for Amateurs
Day, E/PO Lead, Lunar Crater Observation and Sensing Satellite Mission,
NASA Ames Research Center
Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO), containing the Lunar Crater
Observing and Sensing Satellite (LCROSS) is scheduled for launch
this summer and will send an impactor to the lunar surface this
fall to confirm the presence or absence of water in a permanently
shadowed crater at the Moon's South Pole. Presenters will provide
resources and demonstrations to help amateur astronomers make the
most of the mission for visitors to their public events.
2: How to Get "Wow!" When You're Not Showing Saturn
Berensen, Astronomical Society of the Pacific
Zoë Ames, Astronomical Society of the Pacific
astronomers and other informal educators often express concerns:
What if someone asks me a question I can't answer? How do I handle
questions about UFOs and astrology? I don't know how to talk to
kids! This workshop provides easy solutions and tips to allow people
to face these situations with confidence, leaving their visitors
excited and eager to find out more. Role-playing, tip sheets, and
online videos will give you the resources you need.
8-11:30 am (Parts 1 and 2).
your mind and your perspective with a concluding afternoon of engaging
talks by scientists and researchers from the SETI Institute, from
1-5 pm. (See SETI SUNDAY section below for details.)
SUNDAY: A SETI Institute Speakers Series
your mind and your perspective with an afternoon of thought-provoking
talks by scientists and researchers from the SETI Institute, from
1-5 pm. The event will be MC-ed by Mr. Tom Pierson, CEO of the SETI
pm: Finding a Home for ET: The Kepler Mission
Dr. Douglas Caldwell, Instrument Scientist, Kepler Mission
Kepler is the first NASA mission that is capable of finding Earth-size
planets in the habitable zone of Sun-like stars. Caldwell will share
his personal and scientific thoughts on the Kepler Mission and share
some of the exciting initial data that has arrived.
pm: The Real ET
Dr. Seth Shostak, Senior Astronomer, SETI Institute
New technologies may confirm the existence of intelligence elsewhere
within two decades. In case of contact, one of the first things
we'll want to know is: what are the aliens like? Dr. Shostak will
discuss why even speculating about the construction and lifestyle
of extraterrestrials -- long before we've found them -- could be
important in shaping a productive SETI strategy.
pm: Break
pm: Discovering ET: What's Next?
Dr. Margaret Race, Principal Investigator, Carl Sagan Center
for the Study of Life in the Universe
ET may be found through interception of signals from alien civilizations,
or discovered under a microscope examining Martian soil. In either
case, what are the scientific and ethical outcomes of discovering
alien life? Race will discuss her work in planetary protection,
societal issues and ethics when dealing with ET.
pm: Reflections on the Drake Equation
Dr. Frank Drake, Director of the Carl Sagan Center for the Study
of Life in the Universe
Dr. Drake, who wrote the Drake Equation 50 years ago to calculate
the potential for inhabitable planets with possibly intelligent
communicative species, will share his thoughts on the equation:
what have we discovered, and what mysteries remain to explore?
ASP Conference registrants, SETI Members, ASP members, Sunday workshop
attendees, and AANC meeting attendees (with registration badges)
are admitted to the talks at no additional charge.