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Sean McCormackis the Spokesman for the U.S. Department of StateTom Shannon and Richard Boucher both posted on stories yesterday referencing a "survey" conducted by the American Foreign Service Association about issues related to the Foreign Service. If you take a look at my briefing Tuesday, you'll see what I thought about the survey, so my post is not about re-hashing those thoughts, but I wanted to fill you in on how Richard, Tom, and others (perhaps) came to post entries on DipNote.
In the Department morning staff meeting Tuesday, I talked about a story appearing in the Washington Post that morning about AFSA's "survey", and I asked for budget information concerning congressional outlays for the Department during the previous three years as a way to talk about what Secretary Rice has done on the Hill on behalf of the Department (and the Foreign Service) during her tenure. My bringing up the story prompted comment from a number of senior staff around the table about how the impression left by the story couldn't have been further from the reality of what they had witnessed of the Secretary's efforts fighting for the building. Many volunteered that they wanted to speak to journalists writing stories on the topic. I saw this willingness to engage the public on this topic as an opening to encourage my colleagues at the Assistant Secretary level and above to make posts to DipNote. The content and actual writing of the posts would be up to them. I thought this brief explanation was worth a short post, as it has not been the norm that we have had multiple posts on the same topic from senior management folks at the Department.
One additional note about the "survey". In talking to one media organization, I found that AFSA denied the journalist's request for a copy of the questionnaire, which the media organization's polling experts said was critical in determining whether to ascribe any weight to the results. The experts also noted, as I did, that the lack of random sampling technique raised serious questions about the value of the "survey" results in drawing conclusions about attitudes in the Foreign Service. I read one news report in which AFSA officials said the "survey" aimed to get a general sense of members' views. Seems questions about methodology undercut any utility of this "survey" in getting even a general sense of members' views, and the refusal to release the actual questions asked raises even more issues leading to the core question of what one might usefully conclude from the AFSA survey.
Charlie writes:
Sean: Can you speak more extensively to the issue of Overseas Comparability Pay? This seems like it should be a major priority for the Department. How long has this problem existed, and why hasn't the Department been able to get the funding from Congress to fix it? Given the size of the Foreign Service, what would be the cost of implementing such a fix? This seems like a bedrock human capital problem; the incentive structure is totally upside down. How can we talk about transformational diplomacy or expeditionary diplomacy without putting in place the right incentives?
Andrew in Washington, DC writes:
The WaPo story you're linking to makes no reference to the AFSA survey (which makes sense, as it's from Jan 5). This is also true of Tom's and Richard's posts.
Dipnote Bloggers write: @ Andrew in Washington, DC -- Nice catch Andrew! Our mea culpa. The link is now updated.
Peter in Kansas City writes:
Sean: You are correct that the survey may not give a true picture of the views of the entire Foreign Service (FS). Without using a random sample approach, that is not possible.
On the other hand, the survey is not without merit. This survey does give you a very clear picture of the views of about 4300 FS members -- over one third of the entire FS. Whether you like what they collectively said or not, it reflects what a substantial portion of the FS believes.
The more the senior leadership at State tries to dismiss this survey and the views of the people who took part in it, the more it will reinforce the impression that the seventh floor lives in a bubble.
Robin in Venezuela writes:
Perhaps the Department, working with AFSA, and perhaps an independent facility less prone to charges of favoritism, could do a survey on similar topics, ensuring that it is scientifically done and thus have that not be a reason to dismiss the comments/results. I have heard many of my fellow officers express sentiments that reflect the survey may be more accurate than the Department would like; however, it would be good to see results in a form that all sides believe is fair and accurate. If the scientific survey reveals the same results, the Department could put more efforts into addressing those issues. If it reveals a different perspective, that would also help AFSA know where to concentrate its resources.
Aline in New York writes:
As parent of a long-time member of the State Department, I am always glad to read anything that comes out about it, and I find the blog, especially the one entered here about the AFSA survey, very helpful to my understanding what my family members live with.
Rachel in New York writes:
The Department denying that the AFSA survey has ANY merit at all does not make much sense, and comes across as overly defensive. The minute increases in State budget over the past few years do not come close to meeting the increased demands placed on State's resources.
J in Iraq writes:
First a comment on methodology. The issue of a "random sample" is a red herring. This survey was announced in October via both Department Notice and ALDAC; so the sample includes everyone with access to one or the other - a group which approximates the universe of the foreign service. (The sample would exclude people in long term training, diplomats in residence, some PRT staff; etc.) This is the same sampling approach that the Department uses in surveys that it conducts.
"Selection bias" in responding on the other hand is a legitimate concern. The survey was sent to almost everyone, but not all of us responded. For a voluntary survey, a response rate of over a third is very impressive, but people choosing to respond may not be representative.
I am confused by the concern for a "copy of the questionnaire." The survey questions are posted by AFSA.
Finally, I am puzzled that the first reaction of senior leadership would be to "engage the public" about the achievements of the Secretary. It is not the public which has expressed concerns, but employees of the Department. I would hope that senior leaders are also engaging their staff because apparently the message has not been filtering down. To be fair, since October the Director General has (imho) been addressing some of the concerns raised by the survey and it is possible that opinions now might differ from those in October.
Edward in Iraq writes:
While the methodology of the survey is unscientific, it is a useful tool to understand the feelings and perceptions of many of the Foreign Service (FS) "rank-and-file" members. (I would not go so far to say it reflects what a substantial portion of the FS believes - that's a bit too strong.) It begs several questions: If the Secretary is making serious efforts on behalf of the FS, why do so many members of the FS not feel that she is doing so? Why is the perception of those efforts so out of sync with the reality of those efforts? What can be done to communicate to the members of the rank-and-file that management does care about them?
N.S. writes:
Interesting how the survey you criticize has been conducted by AFSA for years. Were there any complaints about it before support for the Secretary of State fell to record lows? Somehow I doubt it.
I bet I could criticize the science and methodology behind the "Best Places to Work" survey that the State Department uses on its recruiting website.
You just didn't like validation that Condi Rice is viewed by a record number of employees as a bad and unsupportive Secretary of State. I read that State Department employees overseas now get a 20% cut in salary when they leave DC! A supportive boss wouldn't allow that.
U.S. writes:
I would think that, since many Foreign Service union members filled out the survey at work, that some were reluctant to criticize their leader. I would be. A complete survey would likely be below 14%.
Department Spokesman Sean McCormack writes:
N.S. wrote that our reaction to the survey had something to do with how Secretary Rice came out in the "survey". I admit to frustration arising from a story line that foreign service officers don't believe Secretary Rice is working hard on their behalf, and I'm sure that frustration comes through in my public remarks. Don't read that frustration as turning a blind eye to issues on the minds of my colleagues. I'm sure there are those concerned about issues like "locality pay" and other benefits, as well those who struggle with how to manifest their views on policy issues. No doubt, we have within the foreign service a range of views any given topic, as one might expect in any large organization whether private or public sector.
The problem arises when the general public, important opinion makers, and members of congress are left with impressions about the foreign service that are inaccurate. You have heard similar concerns from several of my colleagues posting to this blog. That is where the "survey" comes in. While some in the comment section say anecdotal evidence supports the idea of disagreement within the foreign service over Iraq policy or frustration over management "not working hard enough" to win resources for the Department, we do not know on the basis of the "survey" to what extent those sentiments are shared by our colleagues. It is irresponsible to speak authoritatively in public about attitudes within the foreign service based on the AFSA survey . And this is where my frustration reaches a boil. I know (after seeing an e-mail from a member of AFSA leadership) that AFSA actively sought to promote high-profile public dissemination of the "survey's" results by leaking it to members of the media before public release of the "survey". I note that in today's Washington Times in talking about the "policy-disagreement factor", AFSA vice president Steve Kashkett is quoted as saying, "Perhaps we set up the question in the wrong way from a statistical point of view, because respondents could check more than one option." I have no problem with an elegant media roll out strategy, but to now claim the equivalent of oops regarding the integrity of the "survey" does nothing to repair the damage done to perceptions of the State Department in wake of news stories actively promoted by AFSA leadership about the "survey's" results. While we have all made our share of mistakes, my advice would be to "look before you leap" next time. Stories like the ones I have seen over the past week based on the results of the "survey" do material damage to efforts to win the resources all clamor for in the halls of the department. And that is too bad, because there are a lot of our colleagues in dangerous and even not-so-dangerous places who could use the additional support.
Robert in Virginia writes:
Folks, I can't address the substance of this dispute, but I would like you to know that putting the word survey in quotation marks does not strike me as very convincing. Instead, it strikes me as reflecting elitist arrogance and is inappropriate and potentially ineffective, especially when writing about an organization which represents employees.
I am prepared to believe that there has been way too much whining and second guessing on the part of Foreign Service worker bees, but it may well be that the public will draw the necessary conclusions from AFSA's own words. The Department does not serve it own interests by acting in an officious and condescending manner.
Katherine in New York writes:
This is not a clinical drug trial--this is a simple satisfaction survey. I don't think that I've ever heard of a satisfaction survey that adhered to scientific method. What government agency has the financial resources and time to conduct a true scientific study of something as subjective as employee happiness? The AFSA survey is what it is, so instead of completely discounting its findings why don't we use it as the ice breaker for addressing concerns that it was intended to be?
I'm very disappointed by the official response to try and rob this survey of all meaning. Sorry to haul out an overused saying, but if you're not part of the solution, you're part of the problem.
John in Washington, DC writes:
The American Foreign Service Association has issued a statement responding to the criticisms of our employee survey. That statement was e-mailed to the nearly 10,000 people on our AFSANet list serve this afternoon. We will post it on our website at http://www.afsa.org (http://www.afsa.org/011508critics.cfm) as soon as our IT folks can manage it.
Regards, AFSA President
Department Spokesman Sean McCormack: writes:
@ John in Washington, DC -- I appreciate your and AFSA's readiness to engage the public in this forum. The issues at hand are important to the future of the State Department, as well as the Foreign Service, the public discourse here is enhanced by your willingness to share AFSA's response.
J in U.S. writes:
As others have noted, the simple fact that senior officials within the Dept more or less dismiss the opinions of over 1/3 of their employees speaks volumes to the issue. I must have missed that management skill in business school. You want people to fall in line? Unquestioningly volunteer for service in Iraq? Accept the pay cuts involved in serving abroad? We signed up to do this and we're all (most of us, at least) more than happy to salute leaders that we respect. In return, though, show some respect for our opinions and act on them as appropriate. Debating the scientific validity of the survey itself simply shows the all too frequent State "leadership" attitude of "suck it up quietly" as opposed to inspiring us.
Michael in North Carolina writes:
Anyone interested in this string really needs to see AFSA's response (sent to its listserve, but presumably available to anyone interested at www.afsa.org. The survey more than met the requirements for a legitimate survey, and in making it public AFSA has done no more than what organizations representing military officers and enlisted men have done. Instead of carping about it, senior Department management ought to take it seriously and redouble efforts to improve the staffing levels and issues facing the Service.
(from a retired career officer who served as ambassador)
Joseph in Virginia writes:
The "survey" respondents only constituted under 40% percent of the foreign service as a whole. Any administration statistician will tell you that that must mean the other 60-something percent probably thinks the exact opposite. So keep up the good work! And don't forget to continue putting the word "survey" in quotes -- I think you missed one in your last entry.
Department Spokesman Sean McCormack writes:
@ John in Washington, DC -- I appreciate your and AFSA's readiness to engage the public in this forum. The issues at hand are important to the future of the State Department, as well as the Foreign Service, the public discourse here is enhanced by your willingness to share AFSA's response.
Peter writes:
@ Sean McCormack -- Let's set aside the question regarding the validity of the survey and deal with the essence of this matter which you touched upon in your posting: "What has Secretary Rice done on the Hill on behalf of the Department (and Foreign Service) during her tenure."
By any measure, the Secretary has failed to achieve satisfactory results. The budget adopted this fiscal year is yet another strike at the heart of our Service. In comparison to Secretary Powell or to the Department of Defense during the last three years, we have been stuck in neutral or going backwards from a resource perspective. The results speak for themselves.
Perhaps the Secretary is fighting the good fight, but whatever it is she is doing on the Hill, it is not working. You may know different, but we who serve on the frontlines of the Foreign Services live with the realities. Cable after cable informs us of budget cuts, elimination of programs and benefits, removal of positions from FS Bid because of lack of personnel, and decreases in post allowances to fund the Iraq effort. These are not indicators of success.
Collin Powell's Number One Leadership Rule was "Being responsible sometimes means pissing people off." Well Sean, perhaps it's time Secretary Rice took a lesson from Secretary Powell and started to piss off the Congress and stood up for the best darn Foreign Service in the world.
David writes:
@ Joseph in Virginia -- While your simplistic approach to just subtract the number that is dissatisfied from 100% to come up with the number of satisfied people is compelling, it is wrong. There is no way to derive a number of any significance from the percentage of people that did not do the survey; how many would vote one way versus the other (i.e. approval/disapproval of Secretary Rice).


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Skip to comments.Jim Nabors and How Liberalism May Win Its Way to Defeat
Posted on 02/02/2013 5:55:43 AM PST by Kaslin
Is Gomer Pyle one of the Four Horseman of the Liberal Apocalypse?
The superficially surprising thing about last weeks announcement that Jim Nabors had married his boyfriend of four decades was not so much the nuptials themselves I always felt Gomer was just going through the motions with Lou-Ann Poovie. Rather, it was the cultural reaction to the news that a huge star back in his day had decided he would tell even if we didnt ask.
There was no reaction. America, including conservatives regardless of their feelings about gay marriage, collectively shrugged their shoulders and generally wished the elderly singer/comedian well.
Thats it. No outcry. No furor. No TV preachers bemoaning the coming of Sodom II: Red, White and Blue. Nothing.
Lets face facts. In many ways, the liberals cultural narrative has prevailed regarding gays, minorities, and the role of women (including single mothers). Thats not to say that conservatives are somehow anti-minority or anti-women the Democrats have pushed that nonsense even as they eagerly embraced the likes of Exalted Cyclops Robert Byrd and noted feminizer Ted Kennedy. Now, states are allowing gay marriage not just via liberal judges but in the right way through referendum and legislatures. Whether conservatives like it or not, the narrative the liberals have marketed themselves as backing is largely winning. And its potentially a big political problem for liberals down the road.
Back in the Sixties when Gomer Pyle, USMC, was a network smash, liberals werent just busy waving VC flags, dropping acid and mumbling Groovy. They were embarking on an ideological course that would help to hobble them with the electorate for a generation.
As crime exploded and riots wracked the cities, the liberal mandarins decided that the causes of crime and riots couldnt possibly be anything as mundane as criminals and rioters. No, the problem was society, by which liberals meant everyone who wasnt a criminal, a rioter or a liberal.
They meant us.
The American people were somewhat taken aback. In fact, this Silent Majority was loud and clear about what they thought of this and other manifestations of the liberal social suicide pact when took the White House aback as well, electing Richard Nixon twice.
It may be hard to believe for people who didnt grow up before Nirvana and flannel shirts were things, but once upon a time Republicans could reliably beat Democrats about the head and shoulders with a club labeled soft on crime. Moreover, pompous liberal doofuses like Michael Dukakis would walk right into the trap, for example, arguing that complaints about programs that furloughed convicted rapists to rampage again could only possibly stem from racism. Dukakis, the poster boy for the robber slobbering, was notoriously unable to even summon up even faux anger at a hypothetical criminal hypothetically attacking his wife. No wonder he lost.
It was Bill Clinton, that wily Arkansas politician, who figured out what was remarkably clear to everyone else except his fellow liberals that criminals were scumbags and the political price of excusing their depredations was not even remotely worth paying.
So, Governor Bill Clinton allowed his state to execute a lowlife cop killer despite the usual chorus of whining from the left. And when he became president, instead of treating policemen like goose-stepping fascists out to oppress the downtrodden, Clinton reassured the mommies in suburbs across America that he would protect them from the criminal element by famously putting 100,000 cops on the streets.
Liberals had embraced the conservative agenda that the cause of crime is criminals, and that the proper response to criminals is not soul-searching introspection into how society has victimized these unfortunate souls but, rather, to consign them to our dungeons for long periods without a hint of regret. By figuratively tossing criminals into jail and throwing away the key, the Democrats freed themselves from the soft-on-crime ball and chain.
As America coalesced around the conservatives views on crime, the Republicans lost perhaps their most potent political weapon.
Flash forward two decades as the Republicans still search for a weapon of comparable power to the mugger-hugger imagery that served them so long and so well. Sure, the tax and spend charge is nice, but it just doesnt have the same visceral impact as a Willie Horton.
In 2012, the Democrats certainly had a field day beating on the Republicans, but this time it was on the cultural issues that America for better or worse seems to have made up its mind about. Its not a perfect analogy liberals really did, at some level, believe criminals were victims while modern, mainstream conservative dont hate gays or minorities or women or want to keep Kevin Bacon from dancing.
All their work over the years to normalize homosexuality, to promote acceptance of minorities, and to redefine the roles of women has succeeded. The liberals have largely won these fights to the extent they were even being fought other than on some issues regarding gays. But that success may turn out to be a problem for them in the coming years.
After all, besides savaging Republicans for all sorts of imagined oppressions, what more remains for the left to talk about? Republicans are too sensible with our money? They want America to be too powerful and too free? Maybe immigration, except the Republican establishment is generally so eager to reform the system that Obama seems to be trying to torpedo the entire endeavor in order to keep it around to milk with chants of ¡Sí se puede!
Whats left after the cultural issue scourging strips away the issues that most Americans hate? What remains are positions most Americans love?
In future elections, the Democrat desperately seeking to tar his opponent as anti-gay, anti-minority or anti-woman is going to have to contend with a Republican who is gay, a minority, a woman or even all three. Then what will the Democrat have to talk about? His partys record on job creation? Ha!
Politics arent static people and societies change, and what is a powerful line of attack in one election cycle may very well become a hackneyed cliché in the next. The fact is that even many conservatives are slowly embracing the cultural consensus or just conceding the field by figuratively muttering Whatever (although how society is generally moving in a conservative direction on issues like life and religion is another subject entirely). Pretty soon, the liberals tired attacks on conservatives as culturally out of touch may draw shrugs instead of votes.
One moment, the liberals have harnessed a powerful meme; the next, its gone in a puff of smoke. As Gomer Pyle might say, Shazam!
The attention-whoredom that is homosexuality can survive everything but apathy. Gays will become like the Wiccans. When people are no longer shocked, there won't be any point in playing Gay.
Spoiler alert: So was the first Darren Stephens on Bewitched, and Mike Brady and Alice the maid on Brady Bunch.
Gays can celebrate publicly their lifestyle and "marriages all they want. The bottom line is that they are really quite miserable and unhappy. The queer lifestyle is a curse. Always found it ironic that liberals celebrate Darwin but conveniently ignore Darwinian law when it comes to homosexuality. Darwin rightly observed that unless a trait aids in the propagation of a species, nature has a way of abolishing it.
The Democrats will go back to basics. Claim Republicans are not fit to lead, by pointing to the latest pick for Dept of Defense. Claim they want to starve children by cutting welfare and food stamps. Racist for not supporting SAP (Special access pass) for illegals. Hate women by not paying for birth control. Hate minorities by not allowing Obama to do anything about the economy. I could go on, but if you think the liberals will ever run out of excuses for their failures Ive got a free healthcare system to sell you.
Nicely done. It has long been clear that gays are merely bad little boys seeking to offend their elders. Theirs is not, after all, a desireable or even a practical life style.
But they kept it to themselves, didn't they?
And that was a wonderful example of conservatism "winning its way to defeat" - as most of the fascist government overreach we are dealing with today has been a direct result of politicians trying to avoid the "soft on crime" label.
Gays have a tightrope to walk. They have to say they were born gay in order to treat homosexuality as a civil rights issue. But they long deep in their souls to scream "IT'S MOMMY AND DADDY'S FAULT" so they can punish their parents.
My brother is gay and it's like two pitbulls fighting inside of him. He really wants to lash out at our parents for making him gay.
The second Darren was portrayed by a homosexual.
Never going to remove all gays. It has been around since forever. It would be nice if it were re-closetized. The blatent flaunting of it is what is sickening and will (is?) tear down western society. People who show pride in this aberrant lifestyle is destroying America. The soviets(now the Russians ) were the ones who pushed this on us as a form of undermining of our society. You may have notice that the Putin administration has criminalized homosexuality in HIS Russia.
Back in the closet with ye, faggots.
Not the first, but the second Darrin.
The people are fickle. Once they get tired of one group and their mantras they will turn to the new flavor of the month. In the future Old White Guys, who love Patriotism will be popular because they will seem new. People who —like Reagan—see things in black and white and not gray. Once the Democrats have trashed the state—and the pain is universal—people will try anything. They may even go for the man on the white horse—a Napoleon to fix things. So, America may swing far right. the nightmare the Democrats have imaged will come to pass.
Didn't know who Kurt Schlichter is, but I'm going to start reading his stuff.
I was at a Bob Hope USO show in Vietnam & Jim Nabors came on stage. Instantly there was muttering everywhere, "You know he's a fag, don't you?"
Liberals live for causes. They can't stand normalcy and thrive on disruption. Never underestimate their ability to create a "crisis" usually where the so-called powerful (conservatives of course) are oppressing all sorts of people who don't deserve being oppressed. They'll find some phony issue and skewer Republicans. The lib sheep will swallow the new cause hook, line, and sinker.
That article is a bunch of hooey.
The culture of the last 300 years in America is dead.
God, Country, Family, Integrity, Morality.... Standards and Ideals that have sustained and built this country are being abandoned, torn down and destroyed.
In their place, the exact opposite...... The ideals of the Democratic Party.
The fact people voted gay marriage is a bad sign and the author implies that we have to givie up on this front. The same was said by abortion decades and ago and we did not give up and we are slowly winning that argument. I think the same thing can happen with gay marriage. Before Roe v. Wade, several liberal states had liberal abortion laws and the rest did not. There's no reason to think gay marriage will fare any differently. Opposing gay marriage is vital.
The author seems to assume that collectivists come to a point where they will quit advancing their endgame.
We are far from arriving at their endgame. They will be constantly pushing on the next thing.
"The author seems to assume that collectivists come to a point where they will quit advancing their endgame."
I agree. If there will always be groups that reject 'gay marriage', the state will always be there to punish them when they reject whatever impossibility the state is calling marriage at the time. I just don't see them putting down that whip. They would only put it down if everyone eventually accepts 'gay marriage', and for many religious groups this will never happen.
The major reason 'gay marriage' is such an issue is because the state has the ability to punish those who disagree with the definition it uses to recognize the institution.
I agree, but let me recast that statement in a more general fashion:
Liberals, with the unwavering support of the MSM, have learned to "win" arguments in the arena of public discourse. That is a far cry from saying that their "winning arguments" are correct and make our nation a better place. Quite the opposite. Many of their "winning arguments" will ultimately lead to failure by having a high cost and devastating consequences for our society and nation.
The most infuriating truth is that, again with the unfailing support of the MSM, liberals will be able to successfully blame Republicans for massive problems that liberals really caused. We can only hope that disengaged, low-information voters will start listening to the correct message and assign blame where it really resides: with liberal/progressives.
Yep - and we don't remember hearing him getting in our faces about it.
You are absolutely correct! I have a Masters in Biology and have been teaching it for almost 30 years. It has always been completely illogical to me that "gayness" could be anything other than a choice. A gene for homosexuality would not have been "selected for" because, until the advent of modern fertility methods, two homosexuals could not produce a child.
Well goooooolllllll-laaaaay!
Well, to me, that's exactly what the statement you have a problem with, said. Using different words but meaning the same thing. Clinton was entirely a politician, not a crime fighter in the least, is what the statement said to me when I read it. So when I read yours, it served to reinforce that point, rather than "correct" the statement.
It was Richard Cox who was gay (that's right, Dick Cox), who was the 2nd actor on Bewitched to play the role of Elizabeth Montgomery's husband, Darren.
Did you see John Kerry? He served there, you know.
Gays might be the last hurrah for white libs, let us be honest the down trodden non-whites and their race politics are not fetching in the least. Beyond the mesiah mulatto teleprompter actor the bench is thin.
You may be right about most of my statement being, basically, a re-wording of the author's comments, but...
when reading that part about "criminals were scumbags", I felt that the author should have first defined Clinton as being one of those scumbags. But, the author makes is sound like Clinton was doing the right thing as opposed to his fellow liberals.
Why be surprised when this old pole smoker announces his gay marriage.
Everyone knew he was a fag for years.It was no surprise.
Half of our entertainers are queer, men and women.Hollywood has been a queer and pedophile town since the 20's.
The only actors and actress's who make it in that town without laying down on the job are the relatives of others. Nepotism is rampant.
Gomer was lucking he had Sgt Carter instead of R. Lee Ermy. "I'm gonna' cut your ......"
Actually I thought Gomer Pyle had married Rock Hudson in Las Vegas many years ago.
That wasn't the point of this article.
The author's only point was that in carrying out an execution during his campaign, Clinton neutralized the "Democrats are soft on crime" charge that Republicans had so successfully used in the past against them, taking it off the table.
Likewise, conservatives shrugging their shoulders over Gomer Pyle's gay marriage is hurting the ability for Democrats to utilize the "Republicans hate gays" charge.
Nooooo!!! How could I see Jean F'in Kerry while I was in Vietnam while he was on all those secret missions to Cambodia?
And anyway, Kerry served his four friggin months in 1969. I saw the Road Show in Christmas 1971, the same year Kerry hurled his medals (a lie), testified before Congress & called those of us who were still there war criminals & babykillers. I didn't hear of Kerry at the time but I knew about the VVAW & their commie propaganda. What had me seething then as now was Jane Fonda & her treasonous trips to Hanoi & isn't it a crying shame there are homeless vets while this shameless b!tch is living large I'd better shut up now before I get banned!
FWIW, I flew helicopters & got close to the `fence' just once (FB Katum), it was like the surface of the moon looking into Cambodia that place is godforsaken to this day.
Thanks for reminding me of Hanoi Jane. I had almost forgotten about her for a couple of minutes. :)
2nd one - Dick Sargent was. So far as I know Dick York was not.
I agree with the swinging pendulum political theory. Also that it will take pain to reverse its swing this time with the momentum built up from freebees. I know even if it meant not seeing liberals pay the price I would fight losing of our rights from the left or right. You do bring up an interesting point that when the SHTF voters might select a guy that promises to make the trains run on time, or revenge on whatever group can be blamed.
Exactly right. We have now institutionalized "The 7 Deadly Sins" as a nation. Whether you look at it from a religious standpoint or not, the "7 Deadlys" are a good road map on how NOT to live, and yet in every case they are what drives us as a nation now.
"What difference does it make?"
It was the second Darrin Stevens (Dick Sargent) who was gay. So was Robert Reed ("Mike Brady".) However, I don't know about Alice (Ann B. Davis.) Nancy Kulp (Jane Hathaway) on "The Beverley Hillbillies" was also gay. Someone I was surprised to learn about was Raymond Burr. It wasn't obvious with him.
It's not about nParty; it's about Principle.
If the best the Republicans can do is become Democrats on social issues, they won't hold the line on fiscal issues for long, either. And I, for one, won't need them.
I agree with the swinging pendulum political theory. Also that it will take pain to reverse its swing this time with the momentum built up from freebees. I know even if it meant not seeing liberals pay the price I would fight losing of our rights from the left or right. You do bring up an interesting point that when the SHTF voters might select a guy that promises to make the trains run on time, or revenge on whatever group can be blamed.
Exactly! Obama got a lot of minorities to get out and vote in the 2008 and 2012 elections. Those folks stayed home in 2010, and likely will do the same in 2014. Unless the Democrats find another 'Obama' in 2016, I think they're gonna find it WAY more difficult to win. Even a woman won't necessarily do the trick, unless she's also a minority, because the Democrat women have always turned out to vote for their candidates. It was the increase in minority voters that got Obama over the finish line in front.
That would be the 2nd Darren Stevens on Bewitched.
Another screen "heartthrob" who kept in the closet for a long time was Richard Chamberlain. Remember him?
Unfortunately in order to outrage they'll keep lowering the bar. Age of consent is next.
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I love realities, but I can not find the 3.10oz. Please help me. I am almost out. I am 63 years young and everyone tells me how good I smell, thats nice I do not smell older then I am PLEASE HELP I got the mini bottle of it the other day ,L.O.L good for my purse. Thanks Darlene cdcampise
Written by realities NEW on August 09, 2013
Scent is great. Not too strong and not too subtle. It's a scent to use on any occasion. I have been looking all over the place for this cologne and was so glad to find it that I placed an order for 2 bottles. The only complaint I have is that it took forever to receive the product.
Written by Steve G. on April 01, 2013
New Realities I love, love love this scent! I have compliments throughout the day; people are always asking what scent I am wearing! I don't understand why its difficult to locate lately??
Written by Anonymous on October 16, 2012
1 - 5 (of 47 Reviews)


text:
2011 China Tours > The Middle Kingdom > Tour Testimonials
My mother, aunt, uncle, cousin and I recently returned from the Middle Kingdom tour led by the wonderful national guide, Ronald Wang. The trip was truly one of the most memorable, well executed, and inspiring experiences of my life. China Spree works with outstanding hotels, restaurants, guides, and entertainment programs. The itinerary allowed us to visit all the major sites (Great Wall, Terra Cotta Warriors, West Lake, Tiananmen Square, etc) without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. The highlight of the trip was definitely Ronald. Ronald went over and above any expectation to provide us with a comfortable, organized, and friendly experience. His knowledge of all the sites, as well as China history and culture, led me to refer to him as Professor Ron by the end of the trip. We truly felt like we were a part of his family, and that we were receiving a personal tour of his country. I highly recommend China Spree and Ronald. When I return to China to visit other parts, it will definitely be on a China Spree tour led by Ronald.
Grace T, Chicago
12-Day Middle Kingdom 10/16/2011 - 10/27/2011
Good day,
My 12-year-old son and I recently arrived back home from the Middle Kingdom tour I was on with my karate club, Purple Dragon. I thought you should know how happy we were with China Spree. The trip was extremely well organized and well thought-out. We saw a great number of attractions in a short period of time. Also, the food and accommodations were great.
Our guide, Jing, was particularly effective. She did not miss a single detail and worked tirelessly to attend to everyone's needs. Everyone on the trip got personal attention from her, and she was smiling and willing to help regardless of what time of day it was. She is genuinely a treasure and an asset to your company.
Feel free to post my review on your website if you care to.
Yours truly, Sandra Filosof
Sandra F
12-Day The Middle Kingdom 07/10/2011 - 07/21/2011
This was a great trip that opened our eyes to past and current Chinese culture and customs and its thousands of years of history. Extremely educational and worthwhile. Go Now and Learn about Tomorrow's next Super Power!
Carmen N & William S, Florida
12-Day The Middle Kingdom 05/29/2011 - 06/09/2011
Great tour, great value. We had a wonderful time. The tour went very smoothly thanks to the ourstanding efforts of the country and local guides. We enjoyed all the attractions on the itinerary and the variety of things that we visited.
CS: Based on your experience from this trip what would you like to say to potential travelers to China?
Answer: Take a tour. Although we have never taken a group tour before, we were very glad that we took this one. It would have been impossible to see all that we did in the time available if we had been on our own. We would also not have experienced things with the same insight that our tour guides provided.
William & Margaret S, California
12-Day The Middle Kingdom 05/22/2011 - 06/02/2011
CS: Based on your experience from this trip what would you like to say to potential travelers to China?
It is a cultural experience not to be missed. I learned so much about the culture and people and found the people warm, friendly and accepting and the cultural heritage indescribable. I cannot say enough about how much China has to offer from its past and present to the world. At one point, I am speaking in a video to someone and I quote myself, "Im just about amazed out at this country". Thats how it was. I am a well-traveled person, and this trip has been the highlight of my travel experiences. I wish to go back. Dont miss it. See the past and the future rolled into one.
Paula P & Gema G, California
12-Day The Middle Kingdom 04/03/2011 - 04/14/2011
CS: Based on your experience from this trip what would you like to say to potential travelers to China?
Answer: I was once in front of a seafood restaurant in Bethesda, MD deciding whether to go in. An elderly couple were exiting and I asked them how this restaurant was. The gentlemen told me that if I did not totally enjoy it, he would pay for my meal (and he gave me his business card). He was absolutely correct. Were I able I would make the same offer to anyone equivocating on taking this trip. China Spree is excellent, the tour excellent and China an absolute delight - like being on a different planet.
CS: Tour Testimonial
Answer: I had never heard of Chinaspree - found it on the internet. I was skeptical - did some checking, etc. It is by far the best of many many tours, trips we have taken. I would recommend it without reservation, and I will make another trip.
CS: Was there a particular highlight of your China trip you wish to share?
Answer: We are well traveled and accustomed to high quality accommodations, etc. This was in all respects the best tour we have ever taken. Guides were top notch. Hotels excellent (Hangzhou choice might be better), meals were good to excellent. Most importantly we learned that China is an incredible country inhabited by very good and special people. A true delight!
Dr. Paul & Caroline L, Florida
12-Day The Middle Kingdom 09/28/2010 - 10/09/2010
Dear China Spree,
Fond memories of our China Spree Mighty Yangzte trip (091008MY) of October, 2009 have not faded. Rather, these memories are enhanced by reflection. The trip was memorable, historic, fun. Every now and then I reread my journal to travel once more down the Mighty Yangtze and through ancient, as well as modern China. The armchair traveler can enjoy a trip over and over again. We loved traveling with China Spree.
I was delighted to receive your e-mail of November 10, 2010 informing me that I won second place in the Journal Contest just by doing what I like to do most—journaling my travels.
Thank you for a wonderful trip, an interesting contest and providing me with a winning experience.
Shirley W, Illinois
12-Day The Middle Kingdom 10/08/2009 - 10/19/2009
China Spree provided me with a tour well beyond my expectations. I have traveled with four other tour companies in Europe and Africa and was totally unfamiliar with travel in Asia or China Spree. I learned about it on the internet and was a bit nervous about booking. DO NOT HESITATE!! The best value I have ever had for my money. I traveled solo for the first time in my life and felt totally comfortable with everything. China is beautiful!!! Thank You, Eric and China Spree.
CS: How was the general performance of your guides?
Eric (National Guide) was delightful, considerate and obviously worked well with his local guides. His laid back personality was comfortable and caring. John, Sherry and Anthony were all great. All willing to listen and accomodate. All good educators and efficient at moving us. When a handful of us wanted to see a performance at West Lake that was not on the itenerary, Eric and Sherry made it happen for us! John made Beijing feel like home and Anthony was superb in his Garden tour especially.
CS:Based on your experience from this trip what would you like to say to potential travelers to China?
Do not delay this experience, if you have ever had any inclination to go to China - book now!!! I left my heart there.
Nancy T, Alabama
12-Day The Middle Kingdom 08/03/2010 - 08/14/2010
Travel is all the same. I mean, the Great Wall is the Great Wall whether you went there on your own or were part of a group. Thats the bottom line, right? No. First, traveling is more than just seeing a landmark. If it were not, you may as well stay home and just "google" it. And surely you can be adventurous and go the do-it-yourself way.
Or, you can have an efficient, intelligent, and very accommodating coordinator show you around so you can focus less on the travel and more on the experience. China Spree, personified by Mr. Ron Wang, is such a coordinator. He is more than a travel guide. He is in fact your host - a most insightful host for that matter. He leaves nothing to chance to make your visit memorable and worry free. From making sure your bags are delivered to your room, to ensuring you stay hydrated with their free bottled water, Ron does not miss a beat. Everything the brochure said, he does (and more). The local guides, Vicky, Allen, and Raymond are very informative, attentive, and quite straightforward. They tell you how things are in their culture - no bull, no hesitation.
I can say a lot about China itself. But thats not why youre here perusing this site. I can, however, say that having traveled extensively (less South America and Antarctica) I do not miss any of the countries Ive visited. But I do miss China. Thanks in large part to Ron Wang and his team.
On behalf of my wife Rose, my brother Rolando and his wife Ling, and my sister Susana and her husband Leonardo, "xie xie," China Spree.
Well said Bro. If I may add, the hotel choices were outstanding, specially the Garden Hotel in Suzhou. Bus transportation were very spacious. After a day of visiting fascinating sites, it helps to be able to be transported without worries and stay in a relaxing hotel with their excellent breakfast to start another day. The booklet sent by China Spree in preparation for the trip was informative, giving you the insights of things to bring, the sites, common Chinese phrases, etc. Like my bro said, weve traveled quite a bit and the trip to China was the one we miss most.
Cheers to Mr. Ron Wang and team. Thanks to China Spree for putting together an excellent package tour.
All the best,
Rogelio P. S
Rolando S and Ling C, New York
12-Day Middle Kingdom 05/18/2010 - 05/29/2010
Go in the spring, the summer, the fall, or even on the winter cold, have open mind, be adventures, and be the perfect guess.
China Spree
It is the company that keeps their prices low, their guides up to date, their motor coach running, the food and my bed warm. This company has the perfect relationship with their partners, the right connections with great communication skills and the best team. I will travel with them to any part of the world as long and as far they can take me.
Lucy T, California
12-Day The Middle Kingdom 11/08/2009 - 11/19/2009
China Spree is by far the best organized tour we have ever been on. They took care of every detail including the air transportation from our home town to San Francisco to Beijing and back. They took care of the Chinese visa. The days were packed full of interesting sights and delicious food. Among the more unusual highlights were the lunch in a local Beijing home and the outstanding theater performance shows. Accommodations were superior. When the untimely winter snowstorms and fog through our schedule off track, the competent guides made the best of the situation by organizing an interesting train ride from Xi'an to Shanghai instead of the canceled air flight. I strongly recommend China Spree to anyone who wants to travel to China; and I plan to use China Spree again sometime. I have complete confidence in them.
CS: Based on your experience from this trip what would you like to say to potential travelers to China?
Answer: Learn the Chinese expressions that China Spree provides in their booklet, and get an additional phrase book. Using some of the expressions make the trip all the more fun. I would also recommend reading up a little on the major points of interest which the tour will include, and on China in general. This is more than just a recreational tour. This is an enriching, learning experience.
Carl G, Arizona
12-Day The Middle Kingdom 11/08/2009 - 11/19/2009
Hi Mr Wu,
Nice to hear from you.....I refered a lot of my friends to use your travel agent and they are all happy. When they get back from vacation they thank me.... Have a safe New Year.
Rufina and Jose Albano
Rufina & Jose A, California
12-Day The Middle Kingdom 11/05/2006 - 11/16/2006
I have used three other tour companies and China Spree was the most outstanding. I would recommend them to anyone traveling to China or anywhere else they provide tour service. Everytime I had a question and contacted China Spree the person answering the phone had the answer and everyone was pleasant to deal with. They were quite honest in describing the tours, the conditions to expect and went out of there way to ensure we each had a wonderfull experience. The personal touch really came through. I would be glad to personally talk to anyone having questions about using China Spree. Thanks for making the trip a wonderful experience.
Ralph, Ohio
12-Day The Middle Kingdom 10/20/2009 - 10/31/2009
David and I visited China in October of 2009 and we had a wonderful experience due to China Spree and the weather. We had no bad weather which always makes an adventurous vacation more fun. Our national guide, Bill Huang (you may want to request him) was the other reason everything went better than we had expected. He is very aware of the needs and wants of his guests. We saw all the national sites of the Middle Kingdom that we knew to see and we were given time to enjoy them, and we saw much more as well. We visited places that we would not have known to look for. We were given the history of China, our questions were answered; we met and mingled with the Chinese people, and we experienced life in China. All this was enjoyed with the comfort of clean, nice buses and very good drivers. We did not have one driver among four that made us gasp even once. We did not need to handle our luggage except to identify it. Our hotels were all very nice, clean, friendly, and the rooms spacious. The food.....we thought of eating Chinese the day we returned home. The breakfasts in the hotels were banquets, and the lunch and dinner meals always offered us at least one new and different flavor. Traveling from city to city was made painless. Though he would never promise us easy travel, Huang was always able to secure boarding passes and check in without lines and hassles and our seat assignment wishes were always considered. We only worried that we may never again be able to get ourselves around in our travels of the world without China Spree.
CS: Comment on your Tour Manager, using rate 1-10 while 10 is the best
Answer: Bill Huang, out national guide, was simply outstanding. We know your score is 1-10 but we would rate him higher. He just made the trip for all of us. His is intelligent, efficient, thorough, while personable, humorous, and genuinely concerned that his guests see and enjoy doing all they expect to do.
CS: Based on your experience from this trip what would you like to say to potential travelers to China?
Answer: Go to China. Do not hesitate. The sites and history are understood best by being there. The people you meet will you not forget. The Chinese, as we came to know them, are a warm and humorous people. Visit with a guide; without a guide you will miss more than you want to. The language, you can learn a few words. The people will help you. If you are going to use a tour group.....i recommend China Spree
David and Margo, Colorado
12-Day The Middle Kingdom 10/20/2009 - 10/31/2009
I had never been on a tour before, usually when I travel, I travel with friends and they take care of me. My tour with China spree was one of the best travel experences I have ever had. The arrangements were so easy and convienient. I paid one fee, and all the travel arrangements were made, from my plane from my home town, to Beijing, all the travel arrangements once inside China, including the plane trips inside China, all the resturant meals, and hotels. The tour guide went above and beyond the call of duty to make sure we were well taken care of and the treated us with great respect. They were just as excited to take care of us as were were excited to be in China. If I had tried to plan this trip myslf it would have cost more than twice as much. This was one of the best time I have ever had in my life.
CS: Comment on your Tour Manager, using rate 1-10 while 10 is the best
Answer: 10 +++ Bill was a very hard worker, always very happy and cheerful. He was always full of energy. I am a vegetarian and he always make sure I got plenty of vegetarian food at the resturants. He was always looking out for our safety, for example he would always let us know where to watch for unexpected steps so that we would not fall. After every meal, he would look under the tables to make sure we did not leave anything behind. He even took the time to make sure we got the seat that we wanted on the plane. Some people wanted isle seats and I always wanted a window seat, and he made sure that I always got one. He always made sure we the toilet was close by and he walk us to the toilet if we needed it. That is very important if you are in a foreign country. Even though he has been a tour guide for many years, he was never bored, never unattentive, always very alert, never seemed like he was in a rut or that he was following a routine. If there was anything we wanted, he got it for us. I wanted a big Chinese flag, and he found one for me.
CS: Based on your experience from this trip what would you like to say to potential travelers to China?
Answer: It was the best money I ever spent.
Anthony, Arizona
12-Day The Middle Kingdom 10/20/2009 - 10/31/2009
I have been fortunate to travel all over the world with various land groups, as well as on cruise ships, but I have never had a more pleasureable trip than I had while traveling with China Spree. This is truly an exceptional company. They handled every detail in a very precise manner from making certain that we had our Chinese Visa to getting on the plane safely on our return home. They employ some of the finest English-speaking Chinese tour guides that were well-educated and very knowledgeable about aspect of our journey. The accomodations were superb as was the transportation, both land and air. The food was a little different than I expected. The restaurants were beautiful and clean, but true Chinese food is not at all like American-Chinese. Maybe I'm just spoiled. I had a wonderful trip and would not hesitate to travel with this company again, or to recomment them to my friends.
CS: Based on your experience from this trip what would you like to say to potential travelers to China?
Answer: China is beautiful. There is so much to see that you feel like your head is on a swivel. The people are lovely and very polite and quick to share information about their culture. If you have the opportunity to travel there, please do; but make certain that it is with China Spree.
Jim K, Ohio
12-Day The Middle Kingdom 09/08/200 - 09/19/2009
Dear China Spree, Thank you for providing us with a truly amazing, once-in-a-lifetime travel adventure! Since China has so many historical, political, and cultural wonders to explore your tour was a perfect introduction to its many splendors. One of the smartest decisions we made was to rely on your thoughtfully organized and well executed itinerary. Navigating China's airports, roads, sights, and restaurants without the expertise of your experienced guides and tour bus drivers would have been impossible on our own. Despite the experience gained from traveling to many countries on several continents, we felt comforted having full-time guides with us every step of the way. There's no doubt that our expectations were greatly exceeded and that we received great value for our money. We will enthusiastically recommend China Spree to our friends and associates and look forward to comparing their experiences with our own. Best Regards, Arthur and Ines Bryant Redmond, WA (USA)
Arthur, Washington
12-Day The Middle Kingdom 09/08/2009 - 09/19/2009
This was our first trip to China and we went with a somewhat lower expectation. The trip turned out to be wonderful and exceeded even our most wildest expectation. The itinerary included so many variety that we felt we really got to see every part of the cities we visited. Our tour guide, Ronald was fantastic, knowledgeable and spoke perfect English and also had lots of humor. We also enjoyed the fact the group was small and we got to know everyone. This tour was also amazing that we had a wide age span. Our youngest tourist is 24 and our oldest is 84 and that made our meal conversations extremely exciting with different views and comments. The ultimate plus was the group consisted of really positive people. The hotels we stayed were 5 stars all the way. Meals were great with so much food. The massages Ronald arranged for us really helped after climbing the great wall. We would love to travel with China Spree again and especially with Ronald soon. Thank you for the most memorable experience.
CS: What could we have done to make your trip more enjoyable?
Answer: I don't really think there is anything more my mom, my partner and myself could have asked to make this trip more enjoyable. We honestly had a fantastic time. We felt our stars must have all lined up to have such a wonderful small group of travelers who all got along well and a guide who was more than accommodating.
CS: Based on your experience from this trip what would you like to say to potential travelers to China?
Answer: Go with a smaller group like Chinasprees groups. You will be able to learn so much more from your guide and for yourself. It is a fascinating country with a long history, but has also become a world class country. Go with an open mind and really enjoy what the local people can offer.
Andy & Yuchi, California
12-Day The Middle Kingdom 09/01/2009 - 09/12/2009
China Spree offered one of the most comprehensive and delightful trips we could have imagined. The tour guides were exceptional and the itinerary was very well executed. the hotels, the meals and the transporation was outstanding. This was truly the trip of a lifetime.
CS: Comment on your Tour Manager, using rate 1-10 while 10 is the best
Answer: Our tour Manager Amber Yan rates 10+++. She did an outstanding job. She was extremely attentive to individual needs and she was delightful to travel with. She arranged a special birthday celebration for my wife on her birthday that was a memorable experience. She was the best tour guide we have ever travelled with.
CS: Based on your experience from this trip what would you like to say to potential travelers to China?
Answer: Dont hesitate to travel with China Spree.
Michael, Missouri
12-Day The Middle Kingdom 08/25/2009 - 09/05/2009
CS: Things that impressed you most on this trip
Answer: I was most surprised by the quality of the food. I remember from our previous trip that all of the food tasted the same by the end. Although we were tired of Chinese food by the end of the tour, I still thought that the variety and quality was excellent. The dumpling dinner in Xian was my familys favorite food.
CS: Comment on your Tour Manager, using rate 1-10 while 10 is the best
Answer: 11.... Ronald Wang was excellent. His English was perfect and he was easy to understand. We especially enjoyed his willingness to share his personal experiences about what it was like to grow up in China. It really made the immediate history come alive for us. I felt that our 16-year old received a better impression of what life outside of the US could be like. Without Ronalds insight, the tour would have felt much more isolated. Im not sure I would have gotten as good a feeling for the country. Our tour group was 22 people, but he managed to keep us moving without feeling rushed. Ronald was flexible about working with peoples desires and the weather so I felt we got to see everything at the best times of day. If I were coming back to China I would definitely try to get on one of his tours.
Barbara, Oregon
12-Day The Middle Kingdom 07/14/2009 - 07/25/2009
CS: What did you like about this trip?
Answer: Everything. Value for the cost. Good accommodations. Our national guide Ronald was great. Ron's knowledge and insight was very good and he did the most to make our trip the best it could be. This was the first tour I had ever been on and I had apprehension about it. Any concerns I had were put at ease within the first day.
CS: Comment on your Tour Manager, using rate 1-10 while 10 is the best
Answer: Ronald our Tour Manager was great, he definitely cared about us all not only as a group but as individuals. Ron is a man who cares about his job and seems to but his all into it. He is an asset to China Spree and I would rate him as a 10.
John, California
12-Day The Middle Kingdom 07/14/2009 - 07/25/2009
I would recommend China Spree to any body who is interested in visiting China. The trip exceeded our expectation. Most of the time we stayed in Five star hotels. The locations of the Hotels were very good. Our group size was 18. The national Guide came with us through out the trip. The shows were breath taking. No optional tours like the other company do. everything is included including meals. We have traveled out of the country with well known Tour operators. This is the first time we used China spree. I would not hesitate to say they were for better than those famous well known tour operators. No body can beat their price.
CS: What would you like to say to potential travelers to China?
Answer: I would definitely go with China Spree. They exceeded our expectation. Five star hotels, Sightseeing, Acrobatic show, Tang Dynasty Show and meals are included in there price. No other tour company does all these for the price we paid. The tour guides go beyond the expectations to make everybody happy in the group. Groups are small.
Ms. Murphy, Florida
12-Day The Middle Kingdom 6/30/2009 - 7/11/2009
We have never taken a tour before. I have heard horror stories from other travellers who went on tours and complain about other companies accomodations, food, the hectic pace and cold impersonal guides. None of this applies to China Spree. The rooms were great, the days were full but not exhausting, the food was abundant and delicious and the guides, without exception, were exceptional. From the time I first contacted China Spree on the phone to simply inquire about the trip, I was treated politely and respectfully with absolutely no pressure. Leading up to the day of the trip every question and concern I had was answered fully and honestly in a reasonable amount of time. When we landed in China and first met our guide, we were warmly greeted by George who was to be our guide and go-to person for the duration of the trip. He was with us from the beginning to the end. His attention to detail, his pleasant attitude and his knowledge made this, without a doubt, the most stress-free, comfortable vacation I have ever had. While George shepherded us throughout the country, local guides joined in and gave us detailed information about the area and what we were seeing. They answered all of our questions and knew their subjects intimately. Each of them had an infectious energy and a passion to share their country with us. While the mysteries of the Orient were revealed to us, we were treated like valued, honored guests. It wasn't simply a tour of tourist attractions though. We were taken into an individual home and served a typical meal. We took a ride on the canal in Suzhou and witnessed unpretentious daily life. We were given the opprotunity to roam about on our own and experience China up close and personal. A great deal of credit for this this trip, this experience, lies with our national guide George. I can only speak of our tour, but If he and the people I initally spoke with on the phone are any indication of the quality of China Spree's other tours this is a remarkable company. They didn't simply take our money and hustle us around to various tourist sites, there was a real commitment to providing us with the best experience possible. Examples of their willingness to help were demonstrated first when I asked if there were any "paper cuts" we could buy. They are designs cut out of paper using scissors and are quite delicate and beautiful. George looked several places and asked several people for us over several days. The group got involved and finally, at one of the little stores we stopped at between cities, one of our companions found what we were looking for. The cohesion and commraderie that had been developed by the guides paid off. Also, when one of our fellow travellers was passively involved in an accident, a quick call to the local guide resulted in a conversation between the guide and the officer that extracted our companion from what could have been a very messy incident. For the last week we have been passing out those beautiful paper cuts to friends and work mates, telling stories of our adventures in China and extolling the virtues of China Spree and their guides. This is a vacation we will remember and talk about for years to come.
CS: Things that impressed you most on this trip
Answer: The Great Wall trip. We had pleanty of time to explore it and get a real sense of history and size, the canal trip was an excellent look into the lives of local people, I loved the opprotunities to walk in the parks and see the people exercising, dancing, and just enjoying the time out with family. It's more interesting to me to see how people live than look at artifacts in glass display cases.
CS: Comment on your Tour Manager, using rate 1-10 while 10 is the best
Answer: George Li is amazing! The man's untiring attention to detail, his ability to shepherd us around and maintain a pleasant attitude with a real sense of humor was amazing and very much apprecited. It was a subject that several of us in the group talked about. George Li managed to quickly become not just a guide but a trusted and well liked friend showing us his country with a real sense of pride and joy.
CS: Based on your experience from this trip what would you like to say to potential travelers to China?
Answer: If you want travel that is more than a get away or an escape, if you want to experience China instead of simply see it, let China Spree show you the way. It's time and money well spent and the journey will enrich you well beyond the tour.
Richard, Iowa
12-Day The Middle Kingdom 06/23/200 - 07/04/2009
I had no desire to go and see China and my husband who turned 50 said I don't want a party I just want to go see China . So, I was a reluctant travellor. I had probably no expectations and I certainly was concerned abou the language barrier. Well, let me tell you, I had a great time and I learned so much history and enjoyed myself immensely. First I had no idea that China was so impressive with regards to the sight seeing and the shopping is amazing. I am so glad I went!
Colette, Florida
12-Day The Middle Kingdom 06/23/2009 - 07/04/2009
My expectations of China were far exceeded with the help of China Spree. A seasoned traveler I have experienced the best and worst of exotic locations. I would rank China Spree at the top of my list in terms of making you feel comfortable, keeping you informed, providing superb accommodations, an excellent menu, sites to see, etc....for such a young company they do a tremendous job and I would recommend them to anyone looking for a guide while in China...
CS: What did you like about this trip?
Answer: The whole trip was fascinating....nothing was NOT fun!
CS:Comment on your Tour Manager using rate 1-10 while 10 is the best
Answer: I would give Amber a 10. she was so helpful, willing to help, always wanted to listen to what you had to say and just a delight to have. CS: Based on your experience from this trip what would you like to say to potential travelers to China?
Answer: Have an open mind....it is a very different culture from the west.
Clint William, Oregon
12-Day The Middle Kingdom 6/16/2009 - 6/27/2009
This was our (I and my honeymoon wife, Barbara) first overseas guided tour. The trip was fantastic and exceeded our expectations. One I would highly recommend. We saw many of Chinas treasures, monuments and interesting and informative factory tours where our guide was helpful in the sales transactions.. Our guide, Lisa, was the very best. Add to this the excellent coach drivers. The camaraderie which built among our tour guide and eighteen of us created one happy family. All of which resulted in a tour which went far beyond our highest expectations. The tour (honeymoon for us) was a great, reasonable in cost, and one to treasure.
CS: According to your experience from this trip what would you suggest to those who are going to traveling to China?
Answer: Before they finalize a trip to China, they should check with what China Spree has to offer.
Gustave J, Maryland
12-Day The Middle Kingdom 05/19/2009 - 05/30/2009
This was our (I and my honeymoon wife, Barbara) first overseas guided tour. The trip was fantastic and exceeded our expectations. One I would highly recommend. We saw many of China's treasures, monuments and interesting and informative factory tours where our guide was helpful in the sales transactions.. Our guide, Lisa, was the very best. Add to this the excellent coach drivers. The camaraderie which built among our tour guide and eighteen of us created one happy family. All of which resulted in a tour which went far beyond our highest expectations. The tour (honeymoon for us) was a great, reasonable in cost, and one to treasure.
CS: Comment on your Tour Manager, using rate 1-10 while 10 is the best
Answer: Every day was well orchestrated by Lisa, our terrific guide, and filled with history, Chinese lessons, and interesting anecdotes. We were also entertained by Lisa teaching us the 'Watermelon" Taichi. Lisa is definitely a 10!
CS: What would you like to say to potential travelers to China?
Answer: Before they finalize a trip to China, they should check with what China Spree has to offer!
Gustave Jules, Maryland
12-Day The Middle Kingdom 5/19/2009 - 5/30/2009
Happy New Year to everyone at China Spree. Remembering our experiences in China do put a smile on our faces.
John J & Susan E, Wisconsin
12-Day The Middle Kingdom 05/18/2008 - 05/18/2008
I travelled on the Middle Kingdom Tour with Chinaspree in April 2009 and had a really wonderful time. The tour was well organized, the hotels, food and sightseeing were great. Our national guide Kevin was extremely helpful, kept us entertained with stories and anecdotes and made us feel like family. I would recommend Chinaspree to all tourists who want to visit China.
Sushama, North Carolina
12-Day The Middle Kingdom 04/21/2009 - 05/02/2009
My husband and I both loved our Middle Kingdom trip with China Spree and will recommend this trip to our friends. We saw and did a great variety of things, from visits to several World Heritage Sites like the Great Wall, Forbidden City and Terra Cotta army, to having lunch at a small Hutong home; from seeing big urban centers like Bejing and Shanghai, to seeing the intimate gardens at Suzhou; from seeing priceless art objects at the Shanghai museum to shopping for simple folk art crafts at the Old Shanghai Bazaar. I had several memorable interactions with local people including dancing with local women, helping to stretch silk for a silk quilt, and trying to knot silk in the production of a silk rug. Our guide was excellent and spoke perfect English. Every day was packed full of adventure. This trip exceeded our expectations in every way.
Ron & Connie -- Morgantown West Virginia
12-Day "The Middle Kingdom" 04/07/2009 - 04/18/2009
Dear China Spree, Thank you so much for putting together such a wonderful and enjoyable tour. Our tour of the Middle Kingdom in February 2009 was absolutely fantastic and was one of the best and most memorable trips we have ever had. As seasoned travelers, that is saying a lot! We have been raving about our trip ever since we got back a few days ago. We thoroughly enjoyed all aspects of our trip, from the sites we saw, to the great hotels, and the delicious meals we had. The highlight of the trip for us was our wonderful national guide, Ming Li. She was so extremely friendly, knowledgeable, and organized. As far as we are concerned, Ming Li is one of the greatest treasures of China! We highly recommend China Spree and would definitely love to go another China Spree tour in the future. Thanks again!
Q: What did you like about this trip?
Q: What tour arrangements or scenic spots are unnecessary to be included in the itinerary?
Q: Things that impressed you most on this trip.
Q: Comment regarding your Tour Manager. A: A scale of 1 to 10 is too limiting. Ming Li deserves a 100! She was absolutely fantastic and made the trip so enjoyable for all of us.
Megan & Randy
Highlands Ranch, Colorado
The Middle Kingdom tour, Feb. 10-21, 2009
Megan & Randy, Colorado
12-Day The Middle Kingdom 02/10/2009 - 02/21/2009
Just returned from The Middle Kingdom Tour -- and cannot say enough great things about China and ChinaSpree. Trip was good -- far, far exceeded my expectations. Other than 13+ hours on the plane, absolutely everything was great. The hotels were all excellent; (wait til you see the Skyway Landis in Shanghai!); the food fun, filling and interesting (one of the very best meals was at the home in the Hutong!); the local guides were all excellent, friendly, informative. We were really shown all the best highlights -- the bus was comfy -- the drivers very good (which they have to be to drive in China!). Our afternoon at the Great Wall was just amazing -- it is almost mystical. All the arrangements by ChinaSpree were done; we never had any delays, or problems checking into/out of hotels; our meals were all ready when we arrived; the local guides were all at hand. Excellent! Now a word about our National Guide (Ming Li) -- she was absolutely, postiively THE BEST!!! Totally professional, attentive to every request, and great fun! She really made the trip as close to perfect as it could be. I've traveled on several other tours -- and Ming was by far the best guide ever. She is a true asset to ChinaSpree. I would without hesitation recommend ChinaSpree to anyone planning to travel in China. You certainly cannot match the price -- or the services received!
Q:What would you like to say to potential China Spree travelers?
Travel with ChinaSpree!! (And learn how to "hover" ......)
Maureen -- Clinton, NJ
12-Day The Middle Kingdom 9/7/2008 - 9/18/2008


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"Prepare in calm to respond in crisis." This was the motto chosen by Pacific Partnership 2012 (PP12) Commodore Jim Morgan as 200 participants gathered in San Diego on January 30 and 31 for the Mid-Planning Conference (MPC) for PP12. All four host nations -- Indonesia, Philippines, Vietnam, and Cambodia -- sent high-level delegations, as did many of our partner nations, including Australia, Canada, Chile, Japan, New Zealand, and Thailand.
Pacific Partnership, created in response to the terrible tsunami that killed more than 200,000 people in 2004, will carry out its seventh annual mission from May to September of this year. The program was developed by the U.S. Navy, but has become a demonstrable example of the "whole of government" approach to American policy in the Pacific, including participation by the Department of State, USAID, NOAA, and all branches of the U.S. military. It strongly supports three key areas identified by Secretary Clinton in her Quadrennial Diplomacy and Development Review (QDDR) presented in 2010: global health, climate change, and humanitarian assistance.
As in 2010, the USNS Mercy, one of America's premier hospital ships, will serve as the platform for up to 1,000 medical, engineering, technical, and administrative personnel, including several hundred volunteers. Japan will provide a companion ship in two locations -- Philippines and Vietnam -- with complete medical teams, helicopters, and Japanese volunteer organizations. Japan and New Zealand are two countries which have put Pacific Partnership training and cooperation to practical use at home over the past two years, and know how critical these exercises are during non-crisis periods. By agreement, every Pacific Partnership mission will abort the planned exercises and steam for an actual emergency if tragedy should strike the South Pacific during the scheduled mission.
Commodore Morgan and a small team of planners will visit the four host nations beginning the week of February 6, meeting with U.S. Embassy personnel in each country and with national and local leaders in the locations where PP12 will conduct medical, engineering, and other humanitarian exercises and subject matter exchanges (SME). There is still a great deal of work to accomplish before the Mercy sets sail from San Diego at the beginning of May.
Todd S. in North Dakota writes:
I served on PP2008 and PP2010. Hope to serve on PP2012. I'll take the top bunk Tom.
DipNote Blogger Tom Weinz writes:
@ Todd: Welcome back, shipmate! We need your North Dakota cool in the steamy South Pacific!
Jim M. in the Philippines writes:
My sincere thanks to all who attended and contributed to this year's Pacific Partnership 2012 Mid-Planning Conference in San Diego...we made some great headway and came away much better than when we started. We have a long way to go and I ask for your continued engagement with my staff.
We are on travel for our meetings with host nation leaders...and very much looking forward to meeting with them as we prepare for our deployment later this year.
Again...my sincere thanks to all for you for your dedication and support for Pacific Partnership 2012.
Captain Jim Morgan
Commander, Destroyer Squadron SEVEN
Pacific Partnership 2012 Mission Commander
"Preparing in Calm to Respond in Crisis"
Krestofien M. in Indonesia writes:
thank you for pasific partnership 2012, i can't hardly waiting for your coming..welcome to indonesia.
kind regards,
Terry K. in Texas writes:
Just wanted to say that this will be my first Pacific Partnership to be a part of and I'm very excited about about the opportunity to serve the host nations. I will be on board the entire mission. I welcome and words of wisdom from previous participants.
LCDR Terry Knighton
Palgye in South Korea writes:
"Japan to solve the problem of radiation"
Dismantling, or the state owns,for, Fukushima radiation problem actively solve believe that.
There are a victim of its own logic, all that you want to receive forgiveness, attitude, and radioactivity throughout Japan as a victim, making believe that the whole of Asia at risk.
Quick decisions Only way to save Japan and Asia, I think.


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- Game Details
- News (3)
- Review
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Sessler's Soapbox: Changing the Game is a Good Thing
Change, for the most part, is a good thing. But not everyone is comfortable with change. Sometimes, the one thing you've grown accustomed to is the...
Worst/Best Glitches In Madden History
Electronic Arts flagship football franchise Madden NFL has been kicking around for 20 years, and every year it's gotten more complicated and...
'Madden' Monopoly Comes Into Focus
For a while now, the exclusive deal that EA has with the NFL means that Madden is the only football game in town...or the only one in town with...
My X-Play 1000Th Episode PosterLatest Post: Mar 18, 2013 by Smashdrama
I Can't Believe It's Come To This.Latest Post: Mar 18, 2013 by Shadow_ben_jamin
Anime Corner Farewell Tour! March...Latest Post: Mar 18, 2013 by Squeakachu31


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City Insurance picks up tourney win
MARQUETTE – A 5-1 win over Saginaw March 2 enabled the Marquette City Insurance Sentinels Pee Wee AA hockey team a victory in three games in the MAHA state tournament in downstate Canton.
Nate Bordson scored two goals and added two assists for the Sentinels. Luke Beerman and Reece Fortner each posted a goal and assist, while Ethan Jones notched the other goal. Tanner Phillips, Chris Sliva and Daunte Fortner each added assists for the Sentinels (46-21-2), while goaltender Dylan Sibilsky turned aside 26 shots
In Marquette's first tourney game March 1, the Sentinels fell to top-rated Grosse Ile, 9-0. Sibilsky (30) and Tyler Bergwall (17) combined for 47 saves for City Insurance.
In an early March 2 game, the Sentinels got behind early and fell to Rochester, 7-3. Bordson scored twice and assisted on a marker by Beerman. Jones and Alec Beauchamp added assists. Sibilsky and Bergwall combined for 33 saves.
TriMedia goes 1-3-0 in
The Marquette TriMedia Squirt AA Sentinels won one game and lost three in the NIHL playoffs.
On March 1, Marquette fell to the Sault Ste. Marie Lakers, 4-2, though Preston Maki made 35 saves in net. Jacob Peterson scored twice for Marquette, with assists going to Brayden Stannard, Cooper Anderson and Hogan Nemetz.
Early March 2, the Sentinels lost to the Calumet Kings, 2-1. Anderson scored the lone Marquette goal (unassisted) and Maki stopped 20 shots.
That afternoon, Marquette defeated the Sault Ste. Marie (Ontario, Canada) Greyhounds, 4-3, behind two goals by Stannard. Andrew Fedrizzi and Ethan Sellers also scored. Joseph Luke recorded an assist, while Maki stopped 21 shots.
March 2, the Sentinels fell to the Greyhounds in a consolation game, 4-3 in a shootout. Maki came up with 37 saves. Anderson turned in a goal and an assist, with Stannard and Sellers also notching markers. Lucas Guertin, Nemetz and Fedrizzi also picked up helpers.
TriMedia ended its regular season Feb. 23-24 with a three-game sweep of the Green Bay Bobcats.
Maki turned aside 18 shots in a 6-0 TriMedia triumph. Anderson scored four goals for the winners, with Luke and Stannard adding single tallies. Collecting assists were Stannard (2), Fedrizzi (2), Ryan Mccoy and Peterson.
The Marquette skaters then posted an 8-0 victory behind three goals and three assists by Ethan Sellers. Stannard chipped in two goals and an assist. Anderson recorded two markers and a helper, while Peterson turned in a goal and two assists. Also posting helpers were Nemetz (2), McCoy (2), Luke, Evan Kroll and Guertin. Maki came up with 13 stops.
In the final game, the Sentinels (37-21-7) scored three third period goals to take a 3-1 win. Sellers, Guertin and Stannard found the back of the net for TriMedia; Luke (2), Kroll, Nemetz, Fedrizzi and Stannard recorded helpers. Maki made 21 saves.
Hockey Central goes
1-2 in?Wisconsin
The Marquette Marquette Hockey Central Pee Wee B hockey team went 2-1 on March 1-2 while competing in the Eagle River (Wis.) tournament.
On March 2, Hockey Central defeated Hayward (Wis.), 7-0, behind 18 saves by goaltender Soren Higgins. Collin Fure led the way offensively with two goals and three assists, while Brendan McCoy added a three-goal hat trick. Gaetano Cammarata recorded two goals. Jon Jason collected two assists, while Karsten Kamps, Braedyn Locke and Tim Muladore added one apiece.
March 1, Marquette defeated the Fox Valley (Wis.) Blades, 5-2. Cammarata and Jason each notched two goals and two assists, while Kamps chipped in a goal and an assist. David Storm also picked up an assist, while Higgins made 18 saves.
Early March 1, the Marquette skaters fell to Sun Prairie (Wis), 3-1. Jason tallied the lone goal, with Cammarata picking up an assist. Higgins came up with 24 stops.
Wells Fargo U14 girls
In St. Ignace March 1-2, the Wells Fargo U14 girls hockey team finished the season with three losses yo AA travel teams from lower Michigan.
In their first game against the Novi Snowcats, the Marquette girls lost, 2-1. The Wells Fargo goal came from Lexi Anderson, on assists from Lexi Rabitaille and Chloe Krause.
Against the USA Eagles of Troy, Wells Fargo fell, 3-1. The Marquette marker came from Lexi White off a one-timer by Anderson.
The third game saw Wells Fargo take a 3-0 loss against the Traverse City Stars. Hannah Zerbst, covering the Marquette net for the injured Briana Holman, made 59 saves on the weekend.


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Doing and Viewing Art. Photo © FAMSF
This event is expired.
Ages 4-12. Family tours are followed by related hands-on art projects led by professional artists. Children under 8 years old must be accompanied by an adult.
10-11:30 am: General public
12:30-2 pm: Museum members only
Saturday, September 20: The Art of Mixing and Matching
September 27: Lines on the Horizon: Native American Art from the Weisel Family Collection
October 4: Wonders of Light and Shadow
October 11: No class
October 18: Lace: Labor and Luxury
October 25: Shaping Abstraction
November 1: Ani-murals
November 8: Balancing Act: Discovering Line, Shape, Color, and Scale
November 15: Lost and Found: Re-imagining Old Treasures
November 22: Good Enough to Eat: A Look at Food in Art
November 29: No class
December 6: Sculpture through Time
December 13: All a-Glitter!


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On Tuesday afternoon in Shunyi, years of efforts and the hopes of many were dashed when Scott Parsons was judged to have missed a gate near the end of his second run in the first day of slalom competition in the Beijing Games. I felt literally sick. His large and vocal group of friends and family who had traveled to China to support him were devastated.
Our team staff felt the call was wrong and prepared, filed and argued our protest. In the end, the call was sustained, our protest denied and Scott's Olympic competition ended.
Scott faced TV reporters and print journalists eager to hear him describe what happened and share his emotions. Like the champion he is, he calmly explained his run, the problem encountered in that gate and the feelings he was experiencing. He was poised and gracious in a way that few of us can imagine at a time when his thoughts and emotions must have been racing faster than any of the boats that had traversed the slalom course that day.
Scott's was a classy performance. It was a gut check for us all. In the nature of sport: for every winner, there are many losers. The world's best golfers miss gimme putts. The difference between a home run and a long fly out is micro-seconds and inches. Things happen.
I have no doubt where Scott will be physically on Tuesday: running the course cheering loudly his teammate Benn Fraker who put down two solid runs to move into the final day of C-1 competition. I hope he's a good place mentally as well.


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Karen Harbert
Misusing the Strategic Petroleum Reserve
There's a difference between a political use of the SPR and an emergency use of the SPR. It is for the latter the SPR exits. However the Obama administration has decided to use it for political reasons.
Why do I say that? Well, 30 million barrels of oil is about a day and a half use in the US. Or said another way, this is nothing more than political busy work in an attempt to pretend like the administration is a) concerned about the price of gasoline and b) doing something about it.
But a short walk back through their history with the oil and gas industry makes the case that they've essentially been opposed to gas and oil exploration and have used every excuse and bureaucratic means to slow or stop it in the two plus years they've been calling the shots.
American Petroleum Institute president Jack Gerard sums it up nicely:
"It's confusing as to why we would wait to this point to release part of the (SPR), but we've still failed to step forward and say let's bring long-term supply to the marketplace, create American jobs at a time when we have 9.1 percent unemployment and produce millions of dollars of federal revenue at time when we're struggling with a debt and deficit crisis. … Just yesterday the administration sent a letter to Capitol Hill opposing a permitting bill that was designed to expedite permits in Alaska to produce oil and natural gas. We are getting a confused message."
API's Mark Green make the most important point in a succinct three sentences:
The United States could and should be taking steps to increase its own production by 2 million barrels a day or more for decades – which is possible if the government would grant much greater access to America's ample oil and natural gas reserves.
In the long run this would do more for consumers, increase energy security, create jobs and help solve the debt and deficit crisis, to which Gerard referred, by delivering more revenue to government.
Instead of a long-term energy strategy that would help keep the strategic reserve in reserve, the administration seems to be taking action for the sake of taking action trying to cover itself while the economy keeps struggling.
Karen Harbert, president and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce's Energy Institute adds:
The Obama Administration's decision to release oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve is ill-advised and not the signal the markets need. Unrest in the Middle East is likely to continue for quite some time, so a temporary increase in supply is not a substitute for a long term fix. Our reserve is intended to address true emergencies, not politically inconvenient high prices. Rather than dabbling around the edges, the Administration should take steps to increase domestic production of oil—on and offshore, like the bill the House passed last night. With U.S. crude oil production expected to decrease by 90 million barrels in the next year, the Administration should instead focus on increasing domestic production will improve our energy security, reduce our dependence on foreign oil, and create thousands of jobs.
Note the numbers she cites. The administration is releasing 30 million barrels over the next 30 days while presiding over a total drop in production of 90 million barrels annually due to their opposition to increased domestic production.
What is being done with the SPR release is simply more smoke and mirrors from the smoke and mirrors administration. It does nothing to address the long-term need for increased domestic production, it will do nothing to address the price of gasoline (there is no supply problem at the moment) and it is a misuse of an asset that is to be used for real and dire emergencies.
But then we've come to expect nonsense like this from the Obama administration. Symbolism over substance. Pretending to be both concerned about consumers and engaged in helping them when in fact their real policy is to opposed the real solution – increased domestic drilling.
Twitter: @McQandO


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Schools seek bond money
October 4, 2006
General Obligation Bond Proposition B in the November General Election
Approximately $118 million for higher education in New Mexico hinges on voter approval of Proposition B. If the proposition passes, two regional institutions of higher learning will benefit.
Eastern New Mexico University seeks $4.5 million to renovate ENMU's Music Building. The current structure was built in 1957. If the bond passes, classroom and practice facilities in the building would be renovated, according to an ENMU President Steven Gamble. The funds would also be used to slightly expand the Music Building Recital Hall, Gamble said.
"The building is in need of significant repair and this would give us the funds to make it a first-class music facility," Gamble said.
Clovis Community College seeks $3 million for the construction of an Allied Health building that will support nursing, radiology, and emergency medical service programs, according to CCC officials.
"There is a national nursing shortage. It's not just rural areas, not just New Mexico, it's all over the country. Hospitals, doctor's offices, nursing homes, etcetera, are having a real difficult time finding enough nurses to met the need," CCC President John Neibling said.
Neibling said the new building could alleviate such shortages because it would allow medical programs at the college to expand. The new building could support 30 more nursing graduates a year, Neibling said.
Total estimated cost of Proposition B to property owners
$50,000 home = $5 per year for 10 years
$100,000 home = $10 per year, or less than $1 a month, for 10 years
$175,000 home = $18 per year for 10 years
* The net cost to property owners could be lower as older education bonds mature and retire, according to a CCC document.
WHEN: Early voting begins Oct.10 and general voting begins Nov. 7.


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Number of Required Coins
: 108
Current Finest Possible Set Rating
: 64.932
View Set Composition
( Shop )
Liberty Seated Half Dimes were produced from 1837 until 1873 when they were replaced by the nickel five-cent coin. Half Dimes were minted in Philadelphia, New Orleans, and San Francisco. Due to its small size, the series has not been popular with collectors. As a result many of the circulation strike issues can be found reasonably priced in all grades. However, as might be expected, Superb Uncirculated pieces may require a bit of searching. The proof issues offer much more of a challenge. The proof series is filled with rarities and distinctive type coins. The 1837 No Stars is a classic that many consider to be an artistic masterpiece as well as a numismatic treasure. Additional types in this series are the With Drapery and Arrows at Date pieces, the "Stars Obverse" type and all of the "Legend Obverse" dates (1860-73). The Proofs struck in 1854 and later are more readily available but are still considered to be quite rare.
Notes: This set has bonuses. Please see the Set Composition for a listing.


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New Markdowns
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Embraceable Super Soft Lace Hipster
Style: 100061996
Buy 6 for $36
Out of Stock
Made with ultrasoft modal, these lace-banded hipsters are incredibly resilient, and hold their shape, wash after wash. Feminine stretch lace feels soft against the skin, for a fit so smooth and comfortable, you'll want to wear these every day.
- Full back coverage.
- Breathable 100% cotton liner.
- 88% Modal, 12% Elastane. Machine wash. Imported.
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Program Information
Fund for Teachers provides educators, possessing a broad vision of what it means to teach and learn, the resources needed to pursue self-designed professional learning experiences. FFT grants are used for an unlimited variety of projects; all designed to create enhanced learning environments for teachers, their students and their school communities. We believe that supporting teachers' active participation in their own professional growth, positively impacts student learning and achievement.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Employed full-time as a PreK-12th grade teacher and spends at least 50% of their work week in direct instruction with students in a classroom or classroom-like setting;
- Intends to continue teaching in the consecutive school year; and
- Has at least three years teaching experience as a PreK-12th grade teacher.
Individuals may apply for up to $5,000 and teams may apply for up to $10,000 (while team members may be from different schools, districts or states, all members must meet the eligibility criteria). Upon award, Fellows will receive 90 percent of their grant award, the remaining 10 percent to be reimbursed upon completion of post-fellowship requirements.
Fund for Teachers will not provide monies for student travel, the completion of baccalaureate or post baccalaureate degrees, teacher certifications, university/college credit hours, courses for graduate credit, onsite (or campus) professional development at your school or by the district, compensation for substitutes or stipends.
Previous recipients must wait for 3 years before reapplying. NOTICE: Effective October 1, 2015 a mandatory 5 year waiting period becomes policy.
Eligible teachers may submit one application per grant cycle. Proposals must be written by the person(s) participating in the fellowship.
Fellowships should begin after the last day of school in the spring and be completed by the first day of school in the fall, with all fellowship related expenditures made by September 30, 2015.
Each eligible application is reviewed by a Selection Committee comprised of educators, Fellows and corporate and civic volunteers, and ranked using the Scoring Rubric. Applicant cover sheet and identifying information is removed prior to the selection process.ection process.
Applicants will be notified of the selection committee results by April 3, 2015. Awardees will be required to attend a pre-fellowship Orientation.
Fund for Teachers reserves the right to review the terms and conditions of this grant program, and to make changes at any time, including termination.Next