text:
Town Square
Congress Prepared to Cut Funding to We The People Programs
Original post made by Keldon Clegg, Amador Valley High School, on Mar 13, 2011
As of this moment Congress has excluded several civic education programs run by the federal government including the CloseUp Program that takes students to Washington D.C. to explore government, Teach for America which trains young college graduates how to teach in high need areas of the country as well as the We The People: The Citizen & The Constitution competition civics program. We need community members to take action to prevent these cuts!
In 2001 I graduated from Amador Valley High School and participated in the We The People program. Today I am the coach of the Amador Valley program that is heading to nationals in under two months. For the past ten years I have seen the We The People program transform students lives and create a sense of civic community and responsibility. Elimination of the program means Pleasanton loses a legacy at BOTH its high schools! Our Community of Character will suffer a loss with a nation-wide civic education program missing from our town.
Please contact your representative IMMEDIATELY and urge them to reinstate the funding for the Education for Democracy Act (Elementary and Secondary Education Act, sections 2341-2346), which provides support to We the People and dozens of other civic education programs benefiting millions of students each year.
* Tell them about what We the People meant to you.
* Explain to them that funding for nationwide programs like We the People (and Teach for America and Close Up and...) is not an earmark. A few senators seem to get this --Web Link.
* Explain that these programs benefit millions of students, in EVERY CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT, and have enjoyed widespread bipartisan support for years and years.
* Plead with them to not throw the baby out with the bathwater in the current tidal wave of spending cuts sweeping Washington.
* Remind them of their prior support for civic education.
* Explain that although the amount of money it takes to fund the Education for Democracy Act programs is miniscule (<$40 million), the impact on students is immeasurable.
* Urge them to reinstate funding for the Education for Democracy Act
I know We the People changed your life. Now, it's your turn.
You can find contact numbers and addresses on a little thing called the Internet or you can call the Capitol Switchboard at (202 ) 224-3121.
And to make it real easy for you, here's a note I just sent my senators, which you are free to adopt to your needs:
Dear Senator ________"
Thank you very much for your response and ongoing support of Civic Education. Although the defeat of the Coburn Amendment in the Fall and the current Continuing Resolution has temporarily preserved funding for the Education for Democracy Act (Elementary and Secondary Education Act, sections 2341-2346) and the various civic education programs it supports (including Teach for America, Close Up, and We the People), these programs are again at risk. And I am again asking for your support and assistance.
For reasons that defy reasonable explanation, the Education for Democracy Act, which provides funding to various congressionally authorized, national educational programs is classified as an earmark and thus has again been eliminated in the GOP's most recent budget proposal. As Senator Landrieu (and eleven other Senators) noted in their March 1st letter to the Appropriations Committee, the Education for Democracy Act and the national programs it supports are fundamentally different than congressionally-directed spending items directed at a specific state, region, or congressional district. The Education for Democracy Act is not an earmark. Successful, nationwide programs benefiting millions of students like Teach for America or We the People are simply not the "earmarks" even the most strident fiscal conservatives have in mind when they pledge to cut waste.
With this in mind, I once again urge you to continue your support for civic education by working with your colleagues to ensure that any budget passed and any future "earmark reform" does not throw the baby out with the bathwater, by thoughtlessly cutting funding through the Education for Democracy Act to dozens of successful, national civic education programs, for which there has been widespread bipartisan support for decades.
The We the People program changed my life fifteen years ago. It, quite simply, made me who I am today. The civic education programs supported by the Education for Democracy Act have benefited millions of students and are simply too important to get swept up in petty politics. We need your help.
Thank you again for your ongoing support of civic education and service to our state and country. Please let me know if you have any questions or if there is anything I can do to assist your efforts on this important issue.
Phone Number
Comments (40)
a resident of Amador Valley High School
on Mar 13, 2011 at 12:05 am
At this point the WTP program will run out of funding by September 2011 and the May National Competition is set to be the last. Please help us keep this program and the civic virtue that comes from it.
For those who might see this as "just another earmark" please see the letter mentioned above by Senator Landrieu at:
Web Link
a resident of Amador Valley High School
on Mar 13, 2011 at 9:32 am
We the People changed my life. It's as simple as that. Any and all academic, personal, or professional success I've enjoyed can, in some way, be traced to my participation in Amador Valley High School's We the People program 16 years ago.
We the People taught me the history of our country and our Constitution. It taught me how our government works. And how it might work better. We the People taught me constitutional law and political philosophy. Even more importantly, it taught me how to learn. How to think. How to work on a team. How to be a friend. How to speak in public. How to listen. How to write. How to take constructive criticism. How to give it. How to believe in myself. How to rely on others. How to compete with dignity. How to . . . you name it.
We the People taught me more than any other class I've taken—in high school, college, and law school. We the People taught me that our government serves—and responds to—the People. We the People taught me that writing Congress isn't a futile gesture. We the People taught me that citizens—of all ages, from anywhere—can shape national policy. We the People taught me to believe in this country.
We the People has shaped the lives of hundreds of Pleasanton high school students (and, I might say, their parents). It's time for Pleasanton to help shape the life of We the People. Contact your representatives NOW. More importantly, contact your friends and family in other states or political office or GOP-controlled districts or who have political connections and urge them to do the same. Time is running out. Thank you.
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Mar 13, 2011 at 9:52 am
"It's time for Pleasanton to help shape the life of We the People." Taught me... is all I here! "We the People" when has this program ever been promoted to Community living rooms? If you don't get it...so be it.
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Mar 13, 2011 at 10:14 am
I guess it comes down to should Congress continue to fund vacations to DC for a select few people and cut something else or do those parents who have kids need to support these outside activities with their own fundraising? As a non-parent who already pays more than my fair share of taxes to educate everyone elses kids, I cannot justify cutting other programs to spare this elite opportunity for a few kids. Those of you who got so much out of it might start doing fundraising to save it, pass along the benefits of what we taxpayers already funded for you.
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Mar 13, 2011 at 10:29 am
I guess we can couch continuing government spending in ribbons and bows that make entitlements sound critical to basic life. The problem is that every single person on the government dole is saying the same thing. There is not one person who says, "You know my job is useless. I don't work that hard. I get paid as well or better than the private sector. My work benefits the world at large ... believe I know. I'm a government worker."
Aside from the oxymoron, we have to begin making hard choices about government spending. I hear your pleas, but I don't see the difference in your entitlement than anyone else that works in government.
a resident of Amador Valley High School
on Mar 13, 2011 at 10:57 am
Respectfully (sir/ma'am), the point of the program is not to go to DC. It is to promote an "enlightened and responsible citizenry committed to democratic principles and actively engaged in the practice of democracy in the United States." Did you know that We The People is not just a high school level program? 5th and 8th graders have their own levels too (these being noncompetitive hearings). I feel that to say that the point of We The People is to fund a vacation to DC for a select few participants is missing the overall goal of the program, to teach the youth to care about the government around them and give them the efficacy to potentially use or change that government.
Personally, I almost didn't do We The People and retrospectively it would have been a huge blunder on my part. This program has taught me that it is my duty as a citizen to participate in government through all available channels (jury duty, voting, etc.). It has boosted my life skills in areas like communication, critical thinking, and group work. Most of all, it has showed me that yes, one person CAN make a difference. Before I was a part of We The People, I probably couldn't have been less apathetic about the program. But after being a part of the program, I don't see it as "just another earmark". It's definitely a program worth saving. Thank You.
a resident of Amador Valley High School
on Mar 13, 2011 at 11:11 am
I would like to respectfully disagree with the Glenn Beck type of response before mine. There's a difference between cutting spending from food and aid to low income pregnant women and from the civic education that fosters our future generation's civic participation. I think Congress can better allocate their money, and that does not mean simply giving a "vacation" to a few elite students to DC, it's providing a rewarding opportunity you apparently have never experienced yourself! Funding We the People is not going to raise your taxes anymore, correct me if I am wrong.
Anyways, this program has "taught me this taught me that yada yada yada". People need to understand that kids don't simply learn about government in this class; they rather develop an educated opinion about government. It encourages kids not only to vote, study politics, participate in jury duty; it moreover encourages a population of people who actually understand why we vote, why we pay taxes, why we participate in jury duty. There are so many things we take for granted in this nation, and in the end we always complain. Complain about why we pay high taxes. Complain about why our president is black. The list goes on. We the People helps us value the government, and I guarantee very few people value each and every day the liberties and freedoms our founding fathers constituted for us.
I truly care about this program, and not simply because I know more about the constitution than Bill O'Reilly. My teammates at the start of this year were your stereotypical California Liberal Democrats praising Obama and your stereotypical California tax-free Conservative Republicans praising Fox. Through this program, we have developed educated opinions about how we think as a nation, as a state, and as individual persons. Being able to understand others is something our government yearns, and this trait is only developed as children and as teens when we are in compulsory environments like school.
We the People has taught me more than I ever expected. It has done so in a fun environment with teammates and a coach who I now all value as my second family. Changing our nation starts with our younger generations, and this is without a doubt, the single best program to prepare our generation for the world before us.
a resident of Amador Valley High School
on Mar 13, 2011 at 11:18 am
I knew I could count on a Pleasanton Weekly forum to devolve into utter nonsense. Within an hour, no less. Congressional funding for We the People does not pay for anyone's trip to DC. The schools pay their own way, as Amador is currently trying to raise the funds for its upcoming trip. The federal funding pays for course materials, teacher training, etc. Nor is We the People an "entitlement" in any sense of the term. Nor will cutting education funding (or any discretionary spending short of fundamental Medicare or Social Security reform) reduce anyone's taxes (or the deficit). But that's all really beside the point, as I suspect you're not all that interested in the facts. If you are unable to see the difference between allocating roughly $45 million to civic education programs like We the People, Teach for America, etc., which benefit millions of students in EVERY congressional district and an earmark for $45 million to fund a bridge to nowhere or some other congressperson's pet project in their hometown, there's really no sense in further discussion.
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Mar 13, 2011 at 12:16 pm
Ben, how do you comprehend utter nonsense, when good listening is not passing judgement? Didn't John Casey say that if Pleasanton's attempt to assist reforming education, in a way to involve the whole Community... no one can. Something to that effect is what was understood by me. Reviewing your response, contradicts your initial posting. You can't see that? I agree with much with what you say...ask others to share their experiences with the Community. There must be hundreds of past students who feel as you do.
a resident of Amador Valley High School
on Mar 13, 2011 at 12:32 pm
We the People is more than a class. We the People is more than just a vacation to DC. As an Amador Valley student preparing for Nationals Competition in DC, I could care less about the trip. What is really the most important to me, is how much I care about being a good citizen now. Before I was involved in We the People, I never watched the news, I listened to talk radio and had no idea what was going on, and I didn't care about protests and rallys happening/ However, after participating in We the People, I have gone to a Tea Party Rally in Pleasanton, and countered that with an Anti Gang Injunction Rally in Oakland. I would never have gone to either of these without being involved in this life changing program. I also agree with Stefan, that WTP gives me an educated opinion on political issues; that's what we do! We learn history and modern government, and analyze it to develop what we think will best progress America. Fostering civic education at an early age leads to great political leaders in the future, making educated decicions about the future of our country. This program has created civically educated and involved students. We the people is more than about going to Nationals, or to competitions, it is about being educated about government and seeing our government in a new perspective.
So please, contact our congressmen to SAVE WE THE PEOPLE!!!
a resident of Amberwood/Wood Meadows
on Mar 13, 2011 at 12:34 pm
Stacey is a registered user.
These kids come out of the program knowing way more about our government than most citizens, elected officials included, and they are ready to engage and participate at a high level of awareness when they become of voting age.
"We the People" is not an entitlement program nor is it an earmark. It is an investment for raising the quality of our leaders of the next generation, for increasing the health of our democracy.
a resident of Amador Valley High School
on Mar 13, 2011 at 12:41 pm
Point taken, Pete. However, I will not (and indeed cannot) engage with the reactionary, unsupported, and unsupportable views of so many PW regulars -- e.g., all federal spending is bad, civic education funding is an "entitlement," We the People is about a free vacation to DC, reinstating $45 million in funding will affect my taxes (or cutting all federal support of education somehow won't). Everyone's entitled to their opinion, but facts are facts. So, yes, I think "utter nonsense" was a fair and apt description.
As for your repeated references to community involvement, I'm not sure what you mean. Involving the community is precisely what We the People (and this forum topic) is all about. WTP students volunteer in their communities, mentor and teach kids at elementary schools, participate in local government, etc. I (and many other members of the community) volunteer to assist local WTP classes. Competitions are judged by members of the community.
When Amador won the WTP National Championship in 1995, 1000's of community members lined Main Street to welcome the class home and celebrate its achievement. It was a great moment for the city and the very definition of community. I fear Pleasanton has lost some of that in the past 16 years, and that's a shame. We the People has had a positive income on hundreds of students at both high schools in this town over the past 20 years. How any member of this community would deny that or would argue against preserving the program for future generations is truly beyond me.
a resident of Amador Valley High School
on Mar 13, 2011 at 12:43 pm
EDIT: positive IMPACT, not positive income
a resident of Amador Valley High School
on Mar 13, 2011 at 1:27 pm
We the People plays a huge role in getting students participating in the community. Because of this program, students like me are WILLING to participate in community services such as youth court and rallies. It's disheartening when I hear the students around me say that community service is worthless and that they would be rather be doing something else. I believe that the We the People program has the ability to transform the values of these students who abhor the idea of serving their communities. The We the People program itself is a form of community service, and I agree that maybe not enough students are being exposed to this program. However, the idea of eliminating this program completely seems detrimental; are you suggesting, Pete, that having a small group of civic-minded students is worse then having none at all? If we leave the program intact, our community can choose to fight for the expansion this program so that even middle schools can be exposed to this type of civic education. In order to enact any change in a society, civic education is a fundamental first step in enacting this change. We the People plays a huge role in developing our own views on politics, creating a well-informed citizenry, and truly changing our lives. Please don't deny this extremely valuable experience to our future generations because they would have the political capabilities to enact positive change in our communities.
a resident of Amador Valley High School
on Mar 13, 2011 at 1:28 pm
I agree with my fellow team members and coaches. This may sound redundant now, but We The People truly does change lives. While at first it was a government class, it later became a lifestyle. You build bonds with your own teammates, but people from the other teams as well. One of the most important thing I learned from State Competition in Sacramento was that everyone there is just like me. We ALL want to learn, we ALL want to better ourselves and our community, and most of all we ALL want to have fun. It may seem like a rivalry competition between the schools in California, but its truly an experience that fosters so much more than just winning.
To echo a post before mine, I too did not almost do We The People. That would have been the biggest mistake of my life. I've learned countless of skills, and among these are how to form and state an opinion, how to work as a team, etc. I am so grateful for the opportunity I have been given to be on this team, and to not be able to share what I've learned and work with a new team next year is devastating. The community and legacy that comprise of past teams will end this year if the Education for Democracy Act is not reinstated. Education comes from the community, and that is one of the best things we have going in Pleasanton.
Please contact your Congressmen to save this wonderful program.
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Mar 13, 2011 at 1:37 pm
The WTP program is just one aspect of the Education for Democracy Act. In this region we see the competition part of We the People. There are many classes that use the curriculum that choose not to compete. It is also offered to students at risk, private school and home schoolers. It is a terrific curriculum that is available to elementary, middle schools and high schools. In addition it encompasses Project Citizen and Representative Democracy in Action. All programs that are offered to every student in the country. Staff development and training for teachers goes along with this. Education for Democracy Act funds other programs too.
At a time when people complain about the lack of civic education, to cut a program like this is uncomprehensible. When is the last time you read the Constitution of the United States? Have you EVER read it. Wouldn't it be nice if every citizen DID read it.
"It's time for Pleasanton to help shape the life of We the People." Taught me... is all I here! "We the People" when has this program ever been promoted to Community living rooms? If you don't get it...so be it.
I think you don't get it. Students who have gone through WTP, whether competition class or otherwise, touch the lives of those around them and encourage engagement. Isn't that what we want?
The larger point is, this is not JUST the WTP program. It is 45 million dollars a year to educate students in what it means to live in a democracy. It encompasses a variety of programs. Weigh this against the cost of an hour in IRAQ. If all kids had this program perhaps we wouldn't have so many risking their lives fighting for the very think this program promotes, the Constitution. And if they have to fight, they will know for what they are fighting. Aren't the students worth that?
a resident of Amador Valley High School
on Mar 13, 2011 at 2:56 pm
Everyone agrees with our Congressmen that we need to take steps towards a more balanced budget. But cuts like this one to education are not steps in a direction that is good for this country! The $45 million that sustains We the People, along with other incredible educational programs such as Teach for America, is not going to solve our budget crisis, and is CERTAINLY not going to help with the education crisis, which I believe is the even bigger problem in America, if you look with a long-term perspective.
Yes we need to start cutting somewhere. But maybe it would be wiser to turn to the institutions that actually need refinement, instead of the ones that are actually refining our future. Let's look towards fixing the loopholes that allow for rampant income tax evasion. Or towards improving Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security structurally so as to reduce costs. Or even towards thinking about evaluating our tremendous military budget, which leaves only 12% of our federal budget left for non-military discretionary spending.
We the People is an invaluable jewel of a program that produces civic-minded critical thinkers in the midst of a state and country that is facing HUGE problems in education. So let's think big, innovatively, and in the long-term as we address problems like the budget. After all, that is what We the People teaches us to do :) Thanks!
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Mar 13, 2011 at 2:57 pm
Ting, suggesting expression from experience...within the program was the intended purpose.The insight with engaging the younger students...would require a foundation of knowledge as to not disrupt a passion of learning.
Bill, it is your right not to engage. Your points well taken!
teacher, thank you for engaging! haha Somehow even a Teacher's ability to comprehend a student's need is overshadowed by lack of insight, at times. teacher, this may be one of your moments. Anyhow... I am on vacation. Thank you, Kelton Clegg!
a resident of Amador Valley High School
on Mar 13, 2011 at 3:03 pm
Through the We the People program I've learned more about the government than I ever imagined. I have become a more aware citizen about our government and how it functions.
However, the program does not only teach you about government, but how to work as a team. We continue to encourage each other and work towards a common goal. We treat each other as family and can have conversations that a normal citizen would fail to comprehend.
We the People has taught me life skills. I have learned to be more confident in myself and to never give up. I have learned to actually care about what our government does and how to get involved. I have learned to question my own views and other political views.
If it was not for We the People I probably would not know about many issues going around in our government and also the world. I would fail to turn the news on every morning as I'm eating breakfast. I wouldn't be checking current events on news sites like the New York Times.
Our country is one of the countries with fewest voter turnouts. We do not have many people politically aware or politically involved. If We the People fosters all these skills, why cut the program?
a resident of Amador Valley High School
on Mar 13, 2011 at 3:23 pm
We the People is not merely a program that teaches students knowledge about the constitution. I would argue that because most students that are apart of the program go on to have jobs outside of the areas of government and law, the principles, values, and experiences are what make WTP so special. WTP has not only provided me with a great backing in our government's history and function, but has taught me the importance of civic education and citizen participation. I think I speak for all of my fellow teammates when I say that before WTP, I really didn't see the point in trying to enact change in my community because I didn't feel that a single person could make a difference. However, the We the People program has transformed my values, helping me see the significance of serving my community. So many people complain that the youth today are indifferent or inactive within their communities, yet fail to support the programs that seek to change this. We the People is one of these programs; its teaches us the values of civic participation and well informed citizenry, the first steps towards creating a better future for all of America. WTP has not only taught me Natural Rights Philosophy, but how to use these rights to secure the blessings of a constitutional democracy. Its has not only taught me Classical Republican Philosophy, but the important role that these values of trust, honor, and integrity play in our communities. Please help us save the program so our posterity can also be blessed with the lessons and life skills we have been so fortunate to learn and experience.
a resident of Amador Valley High School
on Mar 13, 2011 at 4:13 pm
It's hard to understand what WTP does for its students, because its one of the few programs which shows a long term rather than a short term gain. To those individuals who believe that this is nothing but an earmark, I would point out that a proper and well funded education is never a waste, because you are investing in the future of this country.
As a WTP competitor, I wish to see future generations experience what I am going through right now. I can't praise it or stress the benefits of this program enough. It is a sad day for this city, state, and country when we consider civic education and programs designed to inspire our future government leaders simply as "earmarks". Check your facts.
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Mar 13, 2011 at 5:00 pm
This conversation has been very instructive. What invariably happens is the zanies on the right wail and moan about wasteful spending, then people who are actually familiar with the specifics of this program (as well as others) present facts and reasoned arguments in defense of what turns out to be a very good and beneficial program. Public sector employees have had to do this in order to defend against tea bagger zaniness; teachers have had to do this in order to defend against the same. I trust people familiar with this project, on this post, will see the family resemblance between this project and the scapegoated targets being raised by the right-wingers: things like the right to engage in collective bargaining; teacher seniority and fair pay; parcel tax for the good of the community. It doesn't matter how rational, how beneficial the program, the tea baggies step out of their phone booth meeting hall in order to spew their ignorant blather.
a resident of Amador Valley High School
on Mar 13, 2011 at 5:45 pm
When I signed up for this class last year, I honestly thought it would just be another class that I would study for and participate in and then forget all of its contents over the summer. Boy was I wrong. Over the past year I have learned more about my government, state, and community than I ever dreamed of knowing. There is only a few number of people who TRULY understand the concepts of Due Process, the 14th Amendment's Citizenship Clause, civil disobedience, court system, etc. And these people are the teachers at Amador and Foothill who not only teach us students about government, but also help us to understand WHY they're so important and HOW they came to be understood the way they are.
The fact that there are disputes on this page about the importance of this program is just a difference between those who have gone through this program and those that have not. It's hard to explain a "class" that literally consumes your whole life but at the same time exposes you to so much. It's hard to explain the close bonds that are built among the community members who are blessed to be a part of this program. But I think the skeptics have to trust us when we say we need to save We the People!
a resident of Amador Valley High School
on Mar 13, 2011 at 5:55 pm
I also am currently participating in the WTP program and would just like to share my experience. While I agree with all of my fellow teammates, the one thing I would like to add is that this program is not necessarily reserved for the elite of the school to participate in. Nor is this program one closed off to those who are not AP History or Civics buffs.
Applying to be on the team my junior year, I was the opposite of what one pictures as the ideal WTP applicant. I was not civic minded in the least (I could not tell you the difference between Democrats or Republicans aside from they were different political parties). I even took US history over the summer at Los Positas for the specific purpose of not having to take it at Amador my junior year.
But, by some miracle, I was chosen to be a part of the team. Being on the team has changed my life just as much, if not more, than my teammates. Now, not only can I tell you the ideological difference between Democrats or Republicans, but I now understand how our nation works. I understand the history and reasoning of common day issues. And I understand the importance fostering civic virtue and civic participation in a community.
The reason I think it is necessary to fight to save this and other civic programs, is not because it allows the elite students to enter the program and come out even more elite. It is because it allows ANY student, even those that shared my civic caliber, to participate and come out as civic minded and participating individuals.
a resident of Amador Valley High School
on Mar 13, 2011 at 6:19 pm
We The People has changed my life. On the real though, I've learned so much about government, politics and just in general. Before participating in this program, I just had ideals, and not much of a real understanding of how things work... I barely knew what any of the amendments were or what due process was. But now I do know all of this and more, and I know now that I want to be civically and politically active to make the changes I want to see in society.
People keep talking about a lack of engagement among the youth, and it's programs like this and others that result in an informed and active citizenry. And isn't that what everyone wants, regardless of whether you're on the Left or the Right?
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Mar 13, 2011 at 7:10 pm
My child participated in this program 10+ years ago, had a wonderful experience and we all enjoyed the journey. Would my child have the same high paying, elite job if he/she wouldn't have participated in WTP? Probably; outstanding students do well no matter what. $45,000,000 is a lot of money; the students in this program usually have high grades, exceptionaly high level thinking skills and an agressive work ethic, ie these students will do well whether they participate in WTP or not. Our family spent a lot of money throughout that school year providing meals for the unit and overall group, special clothing and transportation for our child. The regular school and graduation expenses as well as college application fees still needed to be paid. Looking at the young adults that my child participated in WTP with 10 years out makes me very proud, however they were all hard workers and would have been successful with or without the WTP program.
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Mar 13, 2011 at 8:55 pm
I am most impressed with all of the writing from students here today. I believe it is some of the best written posts that I've ever read on these blogs. From reading your points, I do believe you have the message of what needs to be done, you have all learned it in your program- your voice does matter, an individual can bring about change, and you know your civic rights to bring about this change.
I will be writing Congress about this, but I believe you have the power to bring this to a greater audience here in California or even nationwide. We have two WTP award winning schools here, join together, call the press, put your learning into action....and keep doing it the way you have written here- with class, respect, and intelligence.
I just read about students in Detroit who had to fight for their right to compete in a choir competition after budget cuts canceled it.Web Link They made a difference. And you can also!
a resident of Amador Valley High School
on Mar 13, 2011 at 10:49 pm
We have an utter lack of civil discourse in this country.
When was the last time you had a non-confrontational conversation with the intent to enhance and improve understanding?
It's rare to find an honest conversation in the world of politics. Instead, American "discourse" masks itself in a reactionary political climate while much of the public scrutinizes whatever the media chooses to latch on to, leaving the real issues behind in the wake of ignorance and apathy.
To talk with people that know your subject, know what you're saying and have a background and interest in your discussion, is rare. Because of WTP, I've learned to have these conversations, to grow accustomed to them, and most of all, to love and depend on them.
It's called competition civics, but I wish it wasn't a competition. In my mind, this program is not about getting an award or being recognized, it's about knowing whats going on in the world, about seeing both sides of the spectrum and then forming your own opinion. it's about civic education and promoting civic engagement.
The media can be a double edged sword, but here we have the opportunity to use it for the better. This program has the ability to foster honest, educated conversations. Please help us save it.
a resident of Amador Valley High School
on Mar 13, 2011 at 11:30 pm
As a student of the WTP program I can truly attest to all that it has done for me. It's allowed me to grow as an individual, not just in the world of politics but as a citizen at large.
This program has done so much for me it's hard to just trivialize it into just one list. But truthfully speaking, the one thing this class has truly taught me in terms of politics, is that it's better to know what the government does and how you can change that, rather than just affiliating yourself to just a party.
I think Stefan summarized it best when he classified some of the students on the team originally as stereotypical Californian liberals. I'm almost positive I was one of them. In fact, I still am. But this program has taught me how to debate and reason my arguments successfully in a professional manner. I have learned to use evidence and clarify the importance/relevance of what I say as well as try to convey my thoughts without trying to sound stubborn or pretentious.
My unit focuses on the Framers of the Constitution and the reasoning and struggles and debates they went through to draft and create the Constitution and structure our government. After researching all they went through to secure the liberties we have, to protect us from a tyrannical government, to encourage an active citizenry, to create an effective government, I realized that I've taken everything the government does for granted.
It's easy to sit back and complain what the government does and doesn't do, but the thing I learned best about this class is that I can take responsibility myself. I can volunteer, I can spread awareness of political topics, I can engage in debates with my fellow peers, which in fact, I did so yesterday!!
This class isn't just a class, isn't just another period in my day, isn't just another grade on my report card. It's a lifestyle to become a better citizen, and to encourage others to do the same.
This class is not an earmark, it's an investment in the youth, If you cut the funding, you've bluntly admitted that you don't believe in our generation, at all.
Keep funding this program!!
a resident of another community
on Mar 13, 2011 at 11:47 pm
I love how the vast majority of your typical PW responses stopped relatively early in this thread. Like Ben Glickman, have come to expect reactionary, narrow-minded, and poorly substantiated responses to such issues. Naturally, such responses cannot easily form in a logical environment.
As an alumnus of the program from Foothill, I applaud the students at Amador, Keldon Clegg, the venerable Ben Glickman, and everyone else for standing up for this program here in an environment that is typically unreasonably hostile towards the advancement of public education. To the Comp. Civics/We The People team at Amador... you have shown your mettle once again.
To all of the naysayers who read Mr. Clegg's article. Before you start bemoaning the national political system, understand that it all exists solely because of the votes placed by multitudes of citizens throughout the years on an individual level. That is the way it has been in the past, and that is the way it shall continue to be. It is because MANY of those citizens today are inadequately informed that that radical or incapable politicians on both sides of the spectrum can take advantage of them and earn their votes and be elected into office. A proper civic education for Americans has the potential to fix all of this by highlighting the importance of taking all sides into consideration before casting a vote, and by turning future voters into active critical thinkers.
Something that has been sorely lacking in modern America is a basic idea of civic duty- a relative understanding of what it means to truly be a citizen of the United States. Like the people in Amador have clearly articulated, We The People changes all of that. It has provided hope for this country's civic future. Therefore, to cut this program would mean robbing this country of millions of active future citizens who know what it truly means to be A CITIZEN.
OUR NATION needs We The People- and it is in danger due to a mere Congressional technicality. Contact your Congressmen, Senators, and friends in GOP dominated districts and tell them about this program- it is more than worth saving and we must help before it is too late. Thank you.
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Mar 14, 2011 at 8:37 am
Nice way to wake up...while on vacation. Thank you for sharing!
a resident of another community
on Mar 14, 2011 at 11:59 am
I am an alum of AVHS's WTP program, and just want to say how proud I am while reading the responses from this year's students (and other alums). For those of you interested in promoting the "it's too expensive" line, can you not see from their comments that this program produces some of the most well-spoken, intelligent, thoughtful, and civic-minded people that you could ever hope grace the streets of your community?
As others have responded, WTP does NOT pay for "a trip to Washington." Every AVHS class has had to work extremely hard to raise funds for their own journey - along with balancing schoolwork, sports, research, run-throughs, and personal extra-curricular activities. This is not a free ride, by ANY stretch of the imagination.
Much as Ben said, WTP changed my life. Unlike many of my classmates, I did not enter the law field, but every aspect of the class and experience prepared me for, first, college, and later, my career. It also prepared me to be an educated citizen - someone who cares deeply about this country, how and why it was founded, and what it stands for. If having young people that are educated, well-spoken, and civic-minded scares you, then sure - bash the program all you want. If you think we should have more citizens that can increase the level of civil discourse in this country, we need your help.
a resident of Livermore
on Mar 15, 2011 at 1:25 pm
The WTP certainly got the forces out to write to PW. When the Federal Government gets involved, you know more money is going to be spent than is necessary.
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Mar 15, 2011 at 1:48 pm
Well Barbara, I can tell you know a lot about the program from your detailed comments.
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Mar 16, 2011 at 8:23 pm
I'm not sure if this has already been said, but the Close Up Program is NOT a "vacation" for a select few students. We all paid our own way, and our teacher did as well. We were led by amazing guides and met students from all over the world and toured DC while participating in a number of educational activities and nightly workshops. We left after 5 days with a profound knowledge of our government and the way our country is run, and many of us were inspired to start change in our own communities. Credit for participating in the program is offered by several universities including the University of Pennsylvannia. These programs need to be saved!
a resident of Foothill High School
on Mar 16, 2011 at 10:54 pm
Barbara are you implying that the above comments came from people hired by the federal government?
We the People is the best program offered at our schools. It teaches students how to become educated citizens and think critically about the issues facing our country and our world. Your comment just makes me believe that you should have joined We the People when you were high school so you could understand the true value of the program and the ignorance in your words.
a resident of Stoneridge
on Mar 17, 2011 at 6:09 pm
The cuts to this unneeded program does smack of payback to Tea Party members (because of the subject-matter of the program), but I think it's a crude form of payback designed with a jingoistic understanding of the Tea Party.
A true Tea Party member would welcome this cut along with cutting ALL other non-essential federal programs and funding of state and local services (always with federal requirements).
a resident of Jensen Tract
on Mar 18, 2011 at 2:49 pm
We have learned that Congressman Don Young (R-Alaska) is circulating a letter to members of the U.S. House of Representatives with support from Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-Texas) to urge appropriators to exclude authorized, national programs from the definition of an "earmark." This exclusion would apply to the We the People Programs, which are fully authorized in the Elementary and Secondary Education Act and serve every state and congressional district.
Action Needed
Without delay, please call the education aide of your member of Congress in the U.S. House of Representatives to urge that they sign the letter being circulated by Rep. Young as soon as possible. The anticipated deadline is Wednesday, March 23. Please convey that their support is critical to ensure the continuation of the We the People Programs and other worthy national education programs that have been authorized in federal legislation and affect millions of students and teachers. Please encourage other We the People supporters in your congressional district to call as well. You can be connected to your member of Congress through the U.S. Capitol switchboard by calling 202-224-3121.
Again Thanks for your support in educating young people in what it means to be a participating citizen in this democracy.
Please pass this on!
Cheryl Cook-Kallio
a resident of Another Pleasanton neighborhood
on Feb 25, 2012 at 2:08 pm
"Respectfully (sir/ma'am), the point of the program is not to go to DC. It is to promote an "enlightened and responsible citizenry committed to democratic principles and actively engaged in the practice of democracy in the United States." Did you know that We The People is not just a high school level program? 5th and 8th graders have their own levels too (these being noncompetitive hearings). I feel that to say that the point of We The People is to fund a vacation to DC for a select few participants is missing the overall goal of the program, to teach the youth to care about the government around them and give them the efficacy to potentially use or change that government."
Not everyone who applies to the program gets in, so those who do get in should pay for it.
It is NOT an inclusive program as many kids who are qualified and want to be a part of it are rejected.
Funding should be cut and those who get in the program should pay for their trip to Washington themselves.
a resident of Amador Estates
on Feb 25, 2012 at 2:22 pm
since obama, all the congressional democrats, the justice department, the unelected administrative state (e.g. the epa), and the mainstream media have shredded the constitution, what is the use in teaching it anymore?
the above are in the process of replacing it with another, yet to be defined, form of socialist or marxist form of government...possibly incorporating sharia law too. get use to it. you voted for our current marxists so why complain?
Don't miss out on the discussion!
Sign up to be notified of new comments on this topic.
Livermore trustees demonstrating wisdom
By Tim Hunt | 11 comments | 1,418 views
2017 guide to summer camps
Looking for something for the kids to do this summer, learn something new and have fun? The 2017 Summer Camp Guide features local camps for all ages and interests.


text:
A dude that claims he is straight, yet when he sees gay guys he uncontrollably makes a strange turkey noise that is his mating call. He then proceeds to provide felacio to the homo gentleman in question. Very gay.
Dude, Ryan Marks isn't straight, I saw him pucker off a dude last week after he made some turkey noises, he's a total Kevin Ma!
by andymickreppinkee November 07, 2013
The vengeful act of crapping on a lover's chest while they sleep.Buy the plush

subset: commoncrawl


text:
How to use Google Docs
Google Docs is an online word processor that lets you create and format documents and work with other people.
Step 1: Create a document
To create a new document:
- Open the Docs home screen at docs.google.com.
- In the top left, under "Start a new document," click New . This will create and open your new document.
You can also create new documents from the URL docs.google.com/create.
Step 2: Edit and format
You can add and edit text, paragraphs, spacing, and more in a document.
Step 3: Share & work with others
You can share files and folders with people and choose whether they can view, edit, or comment on them.
Mary is a Docs & Drive expert and author of this help page. Leave her feedback below about the page.
Was this article helpful?
How can we improve it?


text:
Team Fortress 2 • Page 2
Team Fortress 2 Maps Workshop invites instant feedback for creators
Team Fortress 2 map makers now have a place to share their in-development creations for valuable work-in-progress feedback.
Competitive matchmaking support is coming to Team Fortress 2
Team Fortress 2 will soon feature support for competitive matchmaking, which Valve says is a "high priority" project for it at the moment.
Team Fortress 2 End of the Line update gets an impressive short film
End of the Line is the latest community update for Team Fortress 2 and Valve's released the details and an impressive short film to celebrate.
You can now wear Lara Croft's short shorts in Team Fortress 2
The millions of fans who get to play and enjoy Team Fortress 2 will now have a little something extra to look forward to, thanks to recent community creations.
Valve changes how gifts work in this year's Team Fortress 2 Halloween update
Valve is making some changes to counter hackers and people who just idle for gifts in the upcoming yearly Halloween update for Team Fortress 2.
Team Fortress 2 players can now indulge in five years' worth of Scream Fortress updates
Valve as brought back five years' worth of its Scream Fortress events to prepare folks for the latest Team Fortress 2 Halloween mode.
TF2's Heavy gets his revenge in this year's Saxxy Award champion
Team Fortress 2 is once again the subject of this year's all-round winner of the Saxxy Awards, Valve's celebration of the best of Source Filmmaker productions.
Team Fortress 2 fan art mistaken for US propaganda on Russian telly
Team Fortress 2 is not part of the US military-industrial complex (or is it??), but that didn't stop a Russian documentary from using a piece of fan art as an example of war propaganda.
The kids of Team Fortress 2 are cute… and deadly
Meet the Team Fortress 2 characters as you've never seen them before – cute, cheeky, mischievous-looking kids. The fan art is by Vanessa Lalonde, a skilled Canadian artist who's also turned her pen to a handful of other game and comic characters – check out the gallery here. Via Reddit.
You could help shape TF2's new maps
Team Fortress fans: sign up now help build the future of Valve's free-to-play multiplayer shooter.
What should the Team Fortress 2 crew do with their final three days?
The latest Team Fortress 2 short gives the red team ust three days to live. What will Scout, Spy, Heavy and the rest of the crew do with their final hours?
This mysterious Team Fortress 2 countdown has us baffled
Team Fortress 2 developer Valve is counting down to something over on a newly-opened countdown site. Look, can we just have Half-Life 3 please Gabe?
If Valve made a Smash Bros. game, it might look like this
Valve could clean up with a Steam all-star crossover beat-em-up like Super Smash Bros. The proof's in this neat fan-made trailer.
Team Fortress 2's annoying map load crash fixed
If you've ever encountered that Source engine error where various games crash part way through loading a map, today's round of Valve patches will be right up your alley.
Team Fortress 2 Catch-Up Comic released as part of Free Comic Book Day
Valve has released an online-only Team Fortress digital comic aimed at catching folks up on the happens with the lore over the last seven years. It's all part of Free Comic Book Day.
Irrational giving out BioShock hats for Team Fortress 2
The DLC season pass for BioShock Infinite now provides an extra perk: some new hats and a doll for Team Fortress 2. BioShock creators and caretakers Irrational Games have announced on their blog that in the near future season pass holders will receive a Ben Franklin mask, a George Washington mask and a Mister Bubbles […]
Team Fortress 2 update adds Valve server-only quickplay option
Team Fortress 2 has been updated, and while the patch notes are mostly fixes and tweaks, there's one standout feature – a quickplay option for official Valve servers only. No more accidentally jumping into the Official Fursuit TF2 Group's annual meeting, which is probably a thing that happens.
Team Fortress 2, Half-Life, Left 4 Dead Steam Library issues fix available
Noticed some weird happenings in your Steam Library today? Some users have reported a strange error where the game labelled "Team Fortress 2" is actually Left 4 Dead, and vice versa. The issue only seems to apply to Valve-developed games, and doesn't seem to cause any major problems, but Valve has suggested a pretty simple […]
League of Legends: $624 million revenue generated in 2013
League of Legends developer Riot Games has revealed that its MOBA generated $624 million in revenue through 2013. However, it wasn't 2013's biggest F2P money-maker. Can you guess what was?
TF2, Dota 2 creators have earned an average of $15,000 each
Remember how Team Fortress 2 and Dota 2 item creators had earned over $10 million in royalties by June 2013? Turns out that figure was generated by a surprisingly small number of creators.
Team Fortress 2 latest
What should the Team Fortress 2 crew do with their final three days?
Team Fortress 2 Catch-Up Comic released as part of Free Comic Book Day
Team Fortress 2 update adds Valve server-only quickplay option
Team Fortress 2, Half-Life, Left 4 Dead Steam Library issues fix available
Saxxy Awards winners include Lil' Guardian Pyro, Disruption and more
Team Fortress 2 Two Cities update to bring new MvM content, weapon effects, more
Team Fortress 2 update improves chemistry set use, other fixes inside
Total War: Rome 2 pre-purchases through Steam turn Team Fortress 2 into a bot-filled Rome
Team Fortress 2's latest update smells like Steam's summer sale
Surgeon Simulator 2013 adds Team Fortress 2's Medic and Heavy
Team Fortress 2 gets big upgrade, adds "Steampipe" content delivery
Team Fortress 2 Linux update improves client stability, patch notes inside


text: With the death of North Korea's leader, Kim Jong Il, attention has turned to the successor he named before he died. Little is known about his third son, Kim Jong Un. Robert Siegel talks with an author who goes by the penname James Church. Church has written a series of fiction books set in North Korea, and he is a former western intelligence officer who has been to North Korea many times.


text:
A modern hotel on the outskirts of the Kent countryside, all guest rooms are individually designed and fully equipped with baths, showers, tvs and coffee and tea making facilities.
Golf courses
When staying at the Holiday Inn Maidstone Sevenoaks you can play the following golf courses: Chart Hills, London Golf Club, Littlestone, Princes and Austin Lodge.
The Holiday Inn Maidstone is located just off junction 2A of the M26


text:
Developing: Shooter Identified In Connecticut School Shooting That Left 27 Dead, Including 20 Children
NEWTOWN, Conn. - A shooting at a Connecticut school has left 27 people dead, including 20 elementary school children. They were shot and killed at a Newtown, Conn., elementary school Friday morning.
The gunman was found dead at the scene. It is believed that the gunman's mother was a teacher at the school. She is believed to be one of the people who was killed.
The shooting erupted at Sandy Hook Elementary School at 9:41 a.m. Eastern time, prompting the town of Newtown to lock down all of its schools and draw SWAT teams to the school.
A law enforcement official said that a gun used in the attacks is a .223-caliber rifle. ABC News reports the gunman had a total of four weapons and was wearing a bulletproof vest. The official also said that New Jersey state police are searching a location in the state in connection with the shootings.
The school has kindergarten through 4th grade classes.
The shooting comes just three days after masked gunman Jacob Roberts opened fire in a busy Portland, Ore., mall killing two before turning the gun on himself.
Today's shooting occurred at the Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, about 12 miles east of Danbury.
State Police received the first 911 call at 9:41a.m. and immediately began sending emergency units from the western part of the state. Initial 911 calls stated that multiple students were trapped in a classroom, possibly with a gunman, according to a Connecticut State Police source.
While some students have been reunited with their parents on the school's perimeter, one group of students remains unaccounted for, according to a source with a child in the school.
Three patients have been taken to Danbury Hospital, which is also on lockdown, according to the hospital's Facebook page.
"Out of abundance of caution and not because of any direct threat Danbury Hospital is under lockdown," the statement said. "This allows us simply to focus on the important work at hand."
Newtown Public School District secretary of superintendent Kathy June said in a statement that the district's school were locked down because of the report of a shooting. "The district is taking preventive measures by putting all schools in lockdown until we ensure the safety of all students and staff."
State police sent SWAT team units to Newtown.


text: Hello everyone! I want to tell you a short story. You see, some time ago I was suffering from a sore throat. My father-in-law told me to put some honey in my coffee, as the honey's natural "smoothness" would be good for said sore throat. I obeyed, and to my amazement it worked! Why, I thought to myself, have I never paid more attention to honey before? The next day I bought a jar of honey and began experementing with it, which foods it went well with and so on. Today I have honey on everything from sallad to vanilla icecream, and I'm loving it. One day I started thinking about where honey comes from, and that's how I ended up here. I'm interested to learn all about beekeeping, and I'm planning on getting started soon, so that I can have my own produced honey by next summer, and with that a new hobby. I think I've come to the right place!


text:
The Brilliant Baja Peninsula Unveiled
Solmar Hotel & Resort • Los Cabos, Mexico
Escape Kit
- A Three- ($437), Four- ($583), Five- ($728), Six- ($874), or Seven-Night ($1,019) Stay for Two in a Studio from April 11, 2013 until December 21, 2013
- All Inclusive of Unlimited Meals, Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic Beverages, and More
- 25% Discount at Solmar Spa Cabañas and a 50% Discount on Cabo Adventure Tours
- Welcome Amenity on Arrival Day
- Combine Unlimited Vouchers for an Extended Stay
The Destination
Everything flows a little more freely in Cabo San Lucas. From the liquid libations that pour nightly (and daily) from an endless stream of beach bars to the rolling waves that kiss the sugar-sand shores, this Mexican resort for revelers definitely promotes a glass-half-full mentality. Lined from end to end with trendy hotels, cutting-edge restaurants, and to-die-for shopping, this destination for cruise ships, spring breakers, and sport-fishing enthusiasts is a hotbed of activity that gives new meaning to the word "sizzle."
The Digs
Nestled away from the crowds yet still close to the action, the secluded Solmar Hotel & Resort in Cabo San Lucas surrounds you with nothing other than cliffs and sea. Fully stocked kitchenettes, air-conditioned interiors, king-size beds, and private balconies come standard. Unlimited meals, alcoholic beverages, and soft drinks are included.
The Diversions
Let your hair down with some primo pampering at the Solmar Spa Cabañas. Then, book an exursion with Cabo Adventures Tours. Format your adventures to your liking with ATV rides, horseback excursions, WaveRunner tour, or sport fishing trip. Or, get up close and personal with Pacific sea life during a snorkel swim or dolphin encounter. For dinner, bite into delicious regional cuisine at El Tejaban Restaurant. Open for all meals, this on-site eatery prepares all of its dishes with fresh market ingredients in both Mexican and American styles.
"The whitewashed, modern Solmar sits against the rocks at Land's End facing the surging Pacific... The all-suite accommodations are done in a Mexico-Santa Fe style, with white stucco walls. The oldest rooms open right onto the sand."-- Read Fodor's Review of Solmar Resort
escapes 30-day promise
LivingSocial gives you up to 30 days to return your unused voucher for a full refund. Once you've made a reservation, you are subject to the merchant's cancellation and refund policy. If you want to secure your preferred dates of travel, we strongly recommend that you complete reservation with the merchant within 30 days of your purchase—after that, LivingSocial will not issue any refunds.
the fine print
- Vouchers may be combined to extend stay
- Only valid for stays between now and December 21, 2013
- Reservations required and subject to availability
- Not valid toward existing or room block reservations
- Merchant cancellation/rescheduling policy and fees apply once booking is made; voucher subject to forfeiture
- Voucher valid for 2 guests; additional guests may be added based on availability and at an additional cost of $80 per person per night
- Children 4 and under stay free, children 5 to 11 pay $40 per child per night when accompanied by adult
- Taxes/resort fee not included; payable directly to the property
- Nights must be spent consecutively; all inclusions must be redeemed during one stay
- Other conditions apply • PAID AND PROMOTIONAL VALUES EXPIRES ON December 21, 2013 • PAID VALUE DOES NOT EXPIRE • PAID VALUE EXPIRES ON December 21, 2018 • PROMOTIONAL VALUE EXPIRES ON December 21, 2013 • Enjoy By December 21, 2013
Other conditions apply
Except where noted in the fine print:
• Cannot be combined with any other offer or promotion
• Tax and gratuity are not included
• Merchant is responsible for the quality of the products or services provided to you at redemption
• LivingSocial Terms and Conditions - https://www.livingsocial.com/terms
Original Price:
- 0% savings
- remaining


text:
New attractions at the Lakes Bluegrass Festival
The eighth annual Lakes Bluegrass Festival offers new events to entertain, educate and reward artists and participants.
Events kicked off Wednesday, Aug. 21, at the Cass County Fairgrounds in Pine River with the second year of the old-time dance, where festival-goers were welcome to dance old-time polkas and waltzes to their heart's content. The event was free to the public.
Thursday, Aug. 22, brings a new event to the show.
"We're going to have an organized jam session, though I think that's maybe an oxymoron," organizer Tim Roggenkamp said. "We're going to lead a couple jam sessions on Thursday afternoon, so folks who are new to jamming or looking for something to do before the show starts can come over to the bingo building and have a workshop. We're going to have a bluegrass jam at 1 o'clock, and at 2 o'clock we're going to do a country and old-time jam."
Music starts at 5 p.m. Thursday with Tim and Cindy & Friends and continues with bands like Flatt Lonesome and Dick Kimmel and Company. But that's not all.
"Also new this year in addition to the organized jam session is going to be the showcase bands," Roggenkamp said. "Those are newer, younger bands that are given an opportunity to play on the main stage and then, based partially on audience response and our evaluation, one of those showcase bands will be invited back next year for a full band slot."
The event is not just about listening to bluegrass music, it's also about learning. This year, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Aug. 23-24, there will be instrument workshops at the Cass County Fairgrounds bingo building at no additional charge. Workshops have seating for 20 and standing room for overflow, but if you sign up ahead of time you can reserve a seat in the workshop area. There will be seven workshops each day.
This year will also introduce a Sunday morning, Aug. 25, a capella hymn singing event in the green Don Smith building.
"We've always done gospel on Sundays but we've never done the hymn sing. So instead of a church service or something, if folks want to come sing some hymns with us we're going to do that at 9 o'clock and back out on the main stage at 10 o'clock for our gospel show," Roggenkamp said.
In addition to many musical attractions, Roggenkamp said the event brings great food. His favorite is the barbecue pulled pork. There will even be music at one of the dining pavilions during supper.
Roggenkamp said the event offers people the chance to hear music in its raw form when they wander the campgrounds listening to amateur jam sessions. In addition, this Pine River venue offers concert-goers an opportunity that not all music festivals have.
"They can walk right into town and visit the shops and restaurants. They can also visit the park and go swimming. People like to do that in the mornings before music starts," Roggenkamp said. "A lot of festivals are out in the middle of nowhere so there's nothing to do but what's right there at the campgrounds. So it's nice at our festival that people can walk right into town."
The Lakes Bluegrass Festival is a family event. Teens get in for half price, children 12 and younger are free. There is no alcohol or alcohol sales outside of the campgrounds, and dogs, smoking and bikes are not allowed outside of the campgrounds.


text:
Hair falls are a form of homemade hair extension. They are commonly made from long clusters of string and/or pieces of plastic tied onto plain hair ties. These are then fastened onto short ponytails/pieces of hair, typically worn with one on each side. Gives the illusion that the wearer's hair is much longer than it actually is and allows for frequent colour changes without affecting hairstyle. Worn commonly by the youth 'goth' culture.
Goth: "Check out my new black and red hair falls that I made on the weekend. I like them even better than the blue ones I was wearing last week."
by 12321 May 23, 2006


text:
Hello Austin, Hello Texas
Trip Start Jun 20, 2009
32Trip End Aug 03, 2009
Map your own trip!
Loading Map
Loading Map
Map Options
Show trip route
Hide lines
Where I stayed
I planned today to go to both the Capitol Building and Museum of Texas today, which were both about 2km away. There is a 'dillo transport service here, which is basically a bus that looks like a tram and costs 50c for 2 hours and took me to my destinations.
The Capitol Building is enormous. So enormous in fact that it is even larger than the US Capitol building in Washington. All in all I was there for about 3 hours which included a free tour by a tour guide who seemed to be obsessed with the fact that I was from Australia and had to refer to it throughout the tour. There is both a chamber for the Senate and House of Representatives as well as a big library and the Supreme Court
After finishing at the Capitol Building I headed towards the Texas Museum. On the way I stopped off at caf� for some lunch, chicken soup and not bad at all. As I have said in previous blogs, the most surprising discovery about the South is the distinct lack of people in the major cities. They boast large populations, but where is everybody?
By the time I got to the Texas Museum I was already quite tired. A lady told me off for taking photos so that is why you will see none of the Texas Museum here. Texas was originally controlled by the Spanish and name Tejas, along with New Mexico and California. After several wars, Texas won its independence, seceded and was called the Republic of Texas having alliances with neither Spanish Mexico nor the USA. Given the tough times experienced by the locals and the constant threat of war with Mexico, Texas agreed to become a State of the USA
For dinner tonight, I headed over to the Spaghetti Warehouse, where you get a Soup, Garlic Bread and A Spaghetti for $9.29, a good deal I must say. After dinner I was told that bats live under the bridge over Colorado River and it is a site to see when they all leave the bridge at sundown. Plenty of tourists turned up to see it and really it was nothing special. At the Botanical Gardens in Melbourne you can see the same thing, although the views may not be quite as good.
Tomorrow is my last day of the tour of the South, then I am off to Las Vegas for TAM!


text:
live right down the street so always cool to see local guys working out with gmen
McLafferty will be one of several collegiate athletes attending the Giants local workout day tomorrow. Some of the Northeasts finest will arrive in East Rutherford for a private workout in front of scouts, coaches and general manager, Jerry Reese. Boston Colleges Mike Naples will be one of the other tight ends in attendance.
"Knowing that they know who I am and that Im on their radar its a great feeling," McLafferty said. "I was a die-hard Giants fan growing up. Ive been a fan my whole life."
The 23-year-old tight end is fresh off a season in which he caught 24 passes for 501 yards and four touchdowns, all career highs. Over the last five years, McLafferty has worked to develop himself into one of the top tight ends in the country.
In 2009, the Morgan N.J. native enrolled at Monmouth having played quarterback throughout high school. In his senior year, he led War Memorial to a 9-3 record and to the Central Jersey, Group IV championship game.
But upon arriving in West Long Branch, McLafferty knew his best position wouldnt be under center, but several spots over. He changed his position to tight end, was redshirted and wound up on the scout team his first year. Week in and week out, McLafferty went head-to-head with the starting defense.
"That was tough," McLafferty said. "I questioned if I was even going to be able to play."
Monmouth tight end coach Jeff Gallo worked tirelessly to help McLafferty make up for lost time at the position. McLafferty had the size (6-foot-6, 255 pounds), the strength and was a natural pass catcher. The only thing he truly lacked were the fundamentals.
"I just tried to get better each year," McLafferty said. "I worked non stop."
In his redshirt freshman year, McLafferty caught just seven balls. In 2011, that number increased to 14 and in his junior year he caught 23. When four-year starter Tyler George graduated, McLafferty knew it was finally his chance to shine.
"Going into my senior year the job was all mine," McLafferty said. "I knew I was going to get a ton of reps and I wanted to be my teams go-to guy. I wanted to be the guy that was considered a playmaker and caught everything that came to him. I wanted to be a big part of the offense."
In three fewer games than his teammates, McLafferty led Monmouth in yards per game, finished third in receptions and second in both touchdowns and yards. The breakout-year put McLafferty on several teams radars.


text:
No.392, Xingguo Road, Yuhang Economic Development Zone
Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311110
Phone: 86-571-88548358
Alt Phone: 86-571-88548359
Visit Website Request More Info
Hangzhou Creator Machinery Manufacture Co., Ltd. is one of the leading global hygiene equipment suppliers specialized in design and machine manufacture. We focus on the goal to realize our customer's value, non-stop innovation, open cooperation with our partners and we devote ourselves to pursue the stability of the machine, to supply our customers with high additional valued equipments. We are Creator, Creation create everything.


text:
Dozens of hopeful models turned out to the Albany shopping mall, keen to be the next big thing on the runway.
The 2013 Girlfriend Model Search - in association with Rimmel London and modelling agency Red11 - saw droves of teenage girls arrive at Westfield Albany.
Make-up artists glammed them up as photo shoots took place and judges chatted with giggling teens.
Orewa teenager Jeanie May was out shopping with a friend when a scout approached them.
"We were just there shopping - we didn't know that was going on at the mall. The woman said we should try out because we had a good chance."
It was the second time the 14-year-old had been approached by a model scout.
"The last time I was spotted was in town outside the Langham - when I was stalking Justin Bieber last year," she laughed.
"Mum didn't really want me to do it, so we said no. But she's okay with it this time."
Jeanie, a lifeguard at Orewa Beach and a keen netballer, said she would love to do modelling.
Twenty-five regional finalists will be picked before five finalists are chosen. The winner will appear in the June issue of Girlfriend magazine.
For more info visit the Girlfriend website here.


text:
Lawsuit Filed Against Bank
Former employee accuses Mainstreet Bank of Ashland of fraud
A lawsuit filed against a Mid-Missouri bank alleges the bank and its leaders committed fraud and misused federal funds for bonuses and to buy vacation homes. Sheriff's deputies served Mainstreet Bank of Ashland and its CEO John Cochran with court documents Tuesday morning. The 39-page lawsuit was filed by a former bank employee who says she was asked to lie on legal documents. While it is a civil suit, the papers do allege a number of criminal wrongdoings. The documents outline all of the allegations made by former employee Leslie McLeland. Her lawyer is asking the court to stop Main Street Bank from foreclosing on her home. Tony Dewitt say the foreclosure on his client's home is retribution for coming forward with allegations against the bank. "She felt like she was forced to because the bank has moved forward with this foreclosure action when all of the payments were made and the loan was not in default," said Dewitt. The court documents say former CEO Darryl Woods went around federal regulations to receive a $10,000 bonus that was not allowed. They allege he used nearly $400,000 to buy a condo in Florida. McLeland goes on to claim current CEO John Cochran "perpetrated torturous acts" against her. However, Cochran says he has never met with McLeland. ABC 17 News asked Cochran about the allegations that the bank misused TARP funds to buy a condominium in Florida. "You don't have time for a discussion on TARP funds," Cochran replied. Cochran says TARP was a poorly conceived and poorly implemented program designed to save loans that were not being paid. He says it wasn't until nine months after receiving the money that the bank received any rules on how to use it. "The money was out the door before any rules of any kind were established," Cochran said. "But, that said, there's an allegation of a misuse of TARP funds. Simply didn't happen." Cochran says that's just one of a number of factual errors within the court documents. He says McLeland was never asked to falsify any information and there is no documentation to refute those claims. However, he would not go as far to show that documentation. Former Mainstreet Bank CEO Daryl Woods was not removed from his position, rather McLeland says he was busy running other businesses and needed help. Cochran says despite the errors her found, he was surprised at how spot on other information is. "And frankly, as detailed as some of the information is, I'm curious as to how that information is even known," Cochran said. McLeland's attorney has been working with federal investigators about the the criminal allegations. Several local law enforcement agencies claimed to know nothing about the problems with Mainstreet Bank. McLeland's lawyers has asked a judge for an initial hearing on Friday. He has until October 17 to get a judge to stop the bank from foreclosing on McLeland's home.


text:
Small businesses sometimes pay hundreds of dollars a month more than necessary for their telephony - thanks to inertia.
Many have a mish-mash of telephony services. It's not uncommon for small businesses to cut costs significantly following a telecommunications health check, says Kelly Blomfield, business account manager at Telecom Hub Southland.
One such organisation, insulation provider Awarua Synergy, inherited many different telecoms services from three different suppliers when it took over a local business.
"It was a mess," says Awarua Synergy's general manager Sumaria Beaton. "We were trying to merge with another organisation and we had mobile phones, landlines, 0800 numbers, fax and EFTPOS."
All of the services were combined into one single package by Blomfield using clever tricks to reduce costs. For example all of the landlines needed to be retained, but instead of paying monthly line rental, the old numbers became virtual landlines, that redirected to the main switchboard.
Beaton says her organisation's accountant was impressed by the savings.
Business customers often simply don't know what's available to them, says Blomfield. Other benefits include a reduction in the number of missed calls, and an increase in business efficiency.
Many small businesses don't keep up with the telecommunication services available to them. Some of these services save money, others make the business more efficient. They include:
Telephony is becoming ever more feature rich and is evolving at an ever faster rate. As a result small businesses should reassess their telephony needs and costs every couple of years. A lot of changes can happen in that time.
EFTPOS: The Basics for Business
Small business: Bridget Riley on home business cost cutting


text: I've been following this guy for a few years, as a syracuse fan, and I have to say he's one of the most underrated college qb's. I'd love for the giants to draft Nassib next year and groom him under eli. It's time to get a young QB as our backup anyway. This guy has all of the tools to succeed in the NFL and he'll be a steal, granted his stock doesn't go up. He's also plays in NY, gotta love that.


text:
London Fashion Week Day 3: Theatre on the runway
11:55 AM Wednesday Sep 19, 2012
London Fashion Week kicked into high gear on day 3, with a hectic day of shows that culminated in Lady Gaga taking a starring turn on celebrity milliner Philip Treacy's catwalk. Earlier in the day, punk queen Vivienne Westwood upstaged her own models in a finale that saw her strutting down the runway with a climate change slogan T-shirt. Fashion doesn't get more theatrical than this.


text:
This is a very good, wonderfully silky serum that competes favorably with costlier serums BeautiControl sells. It contains a good assortment of antioxidants, cell-communicating peptides, and repairing ingredients, which is why it's a shame to mention the one significant drawback: the problematic preservative methylisothiazolinone. This preservative is typically not advised for use in leave-on products due to its sensitizing potential (Source: Contact Dermatitis, November 2011, pages 276–285). The amount is low, but it's still cause for concern and keeps this otherwise outstanding serum from earning our top rating. If you opt to try this, its texture is fine for all skin types, though those with sensitive skin should consider this serum carefully.Note: the enzymes this contains are not known to exfoliate skin or improve age spots, not to mention the enzymes are likely not active in this serum due to their inherent instability. This serum contains a citrus ingredient for fragrance.
Instantly boost skin's radiance with this multi-tasking serum that rejuvenates and renews skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines, pores, dullness and age spots. Non-abrasive enzymes work synergistically with fruit acids to enhance skin's natural cellular regeneration, revealing a smoother, more radiant complexion. Encapsulated resveratrol protects newly exposed skin cells from environmental damage, while hyaluronic acid infuses skin with moisture for a more youthful appearance.
Water, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Dimethicone, Methyl Trimethicone, Silica, Vaccinium Myrtillus, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5, Palmitoyl Oligopeptide, Hexapeptide-10, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Saccharum Officinarum, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis, Citrus Medica Limonum, Acer Saccharum, Resveratrol, Subtilisin, Glycoproteins, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Allantoin, Protease Enzymes, Butyrospermum Parkii, Ethylhexylglycerin, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Caprylyl Glycol, Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl, Hydroxyethyl Behenamidopropyl Dimonium, Polyquaternium-67, Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 Crosspolymer, Polysorbate 20, Polysorbate 60, Synthetic Wax, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Carbomer, Behenyl Alcohol, Stearyl Alcohol, Magnesium Sulfate, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Sodium Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol, Methylisothiazolinone, Sorbic Acid, Iron Oxide, Titanium Dioxide
BeautiControl At-A-Glance
Strengths: The Cell Block-C products include stablized Vitamin C; some well-formulated moisturizers; decent scrub products; excellent retinol products; some good cleansers plus an exceptional makeup remover; Lip Apeel; very good lip balm with sunscreen; some great foundations (including one with full coverage); very good powder blush and eyeshadow trios; the liquid eyeliner and lip gloss are excellent; some innovative products that make this line deserve a second look.
Weaknesses: Most of the body-care products contain irritating ingredients, as do several others throughout the line; the jar packaging is really disappointing; most of the toners contain problematic ingredients that can hurt skin; almost all of the men's products are full of irritants; limited options for sunscreens, although what's available provides sufficient UVA protection; the Skinlogics Sensitive skin-care line contains ingredients that are problematic for those with sensitive skin; mostly problematic concealers; limited to poor foundation, concealer, and powder shades for women of color.
Texas-based BeautiControl has been around for nearly three decades and has maintained a consistent focus on skin care. Most recently they have shaped their line around the concept of creating your own in-home spa, which the company uses to entice women to host BeautiControl parties for their friends and family. Whether you find out about (or end up purchasing) these products by attending a BeautiControl party or you happen across their Web site, there are some compelling reasons to consider several BeautiControl products. Let's start with the positives.
The best face forward side of BeautiControl is that their price point is not over the top, and mostly reasonable; plus several of their products are exceptional. We also think their overall approach to taking care of skin is well-intentioned. Without question, the ingredients in their best products demonstrate they're keeping up with the state-of-the-art. If they stopped including problematic ingredients and discontinued the poorly formulated products this line would be a much stronger option for consumers looking to take excellent care of their skin while remaining brand-loyal.
BeautiControl's focus on launching more and more miracle products with incredibly misleading claims might help them sell more products, but it doesn't always make for good skin care. And how come they have so few facial moisturizers with sunscreen? Protecting skin from sunlight indisputably keeps it looking younger, firmer, smoother, and even-toned far longer than anything else you can do for skin.
BeautiControl's makeup collection has been streamlined a bit, and that's good news. The foundation colors are divided into warm, cool, and neutral tones though the warm tones (those that begin with the letter Y) are more neutral than warm, which is good news. The cool shades (those that begin with the letter P) are the least impressive. Throughout the color line are some happy surprises, such as the improved powder blush and eyeshadow trios but also some really bland products such as the eye pencil and some gimmicky primer-type products. You'll find some great products whether you want to shop BeautiControl's color line piecemeal or assemble a complete makeup wardrobe, and the prices are reasonable.
For more information about BeautiControl, call (800) 232-8841 or visit www.beauticontrol.com.
Note: We would like to acknowledge and extol how exceptionally helpful the staff at BeautiControl's main office has been in allowing my team and me to compile the information necessary to complete this review. Very few cosmetics companies extend such a high level of service and reliable information to us, and we truly appreciate it.
The Beautypedia and Paula's Choice Research teams have one mission: To help you find the best products for your skin, whether they're from Paula's Choice or another brand. By combining efforts, we're able to share scientific research and remain committed to the highest standards based on our decades of experience objectively reviewing thousands upon thousands of skincare and makeup formularies in all price ranges.
Beautypedia cuts through the hype to bring you product insights and recommendations you won't find anywhere else!


text:
forum: Food & Drink
#21171 Thu 27 Sep 12 8:23pm
- Forum super champ
- Member since Fri 04 Apr 08
Re: Whats For Supper?
Tomatoes in salad with mozzarella and red onion.
Jambalaya served with rice
If we dont eat too much we might give this a go:
#21172 Fri 28 Sep 12 2:03am
- Forum super champ
- From Melbourne Australia
- Member since Sun 12 Apr 09
Re: Whats For Supper?
Simple fried rice.
Yay for Jambalaya line dancing Kye!
#21173 Fri 28 Sep 12 1:06pm
- Forum super champ
- From Newcastle, Australia
- Member since Sat 10 Mar 07
Re: Whats For Supper?
Chicken with sumac, jewelled couscous and a side salad.
#21174 Fri 28 Sep 12 1:25pm
- Forum champ Occupation Opiskelija
- From Finland
- Member since Thu 26 Aug 10
Re: Whats For Supper?
It's hot dogs and chips tonight. My sunshine is having a birthday sleep over, and that's guaranteed to go down well with 12 year old boys
#21175 Sat 29 Sep 12 7:24am
- Forum super champ Occupation Mother of 2 working more than full time
- From Wallerawang, Oz
- Member since Wed 29 Jun 05
Re: Whats For Supper?
I made Jamie's courgette carbonara with asparagus & broccoli instead of courgette. Yummy.
#21176 Sat 29 Sep 12 7:39am
- Member Occupation Sometimes I would like to know myself (or like to change it).
- From Germany
- Member since Thu 17 Mar 11
Re: Whats For Supper?
frizz1974 wrote:
I made Jamie's courgette carbonara with asparagus & broccoli instead of courgette. Yummy.
I love the courgette carbonara. Did it quite a few times. Your version also sounds delicious.
#21177 Sat 29 Sep 12 7:52am
- Forum champ Occupation Book Seller
- From Jacksonville, FL
- Member since Sun 04 Apr 10
Re: Whats For Supper?
I had take out pizza...but I'm off saturday and I may try something new! Not sure what..but I"ll let ya know when I do!
#21178 Sat 29 Sep 12 12:56pm
- Forum super champ Occupation Just being me
- Member since Fri 28 Mar 08
Re: Whats For Supper?
Oatmeal with raisins and brown sugar. Had a wobbly feeling from pain medications, so not too exciting!
#21179 Sat 29 Sep 12 10:13pm
- Forum champ Occupation Book Seller
- From Jacksonville, FL
- Member since Sun 04 Apr 10
Re: Whats For Supper?
I've decided to try my hand at making Posole. I'm excited!
#21180 Sat 29 Sep 12 10:28pm
- Forum champ Occupation Why is the Rum always gone???!
- From out to lunch
- Member since Sat 07 Jan 06
Re: Whats For Supper?
homemade tom kha gai ..
Last edited by Ashen (Sat 29 Sep 12 11:13pm)
Only a fool argues with a skunk, a mule or a cook. { cowboy saying}


text:
The Division of Fine Arts and Humanities will host an all-day fiesta on Friday, Oct. 26 for students at Little Rock-West campus.
Food, arts, crafts, dance and educational displays representative of Spanish heritage and culture will be available from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. in the Student Activities Room, (Room 220). Festivities are free and open to all.
Pulaski Technical College


text:
|Topic Review (Newest First)
They may or may not hang out together. Though, Boraras aren't much of a schooling species unless they're in gigantic tanks and have a reason to create safety in numbers. Otherwise, they spend 99% of their time apart, exploring.
Mixing two types in a tank this small will look poorly planned and less natural.
Some fish seem to do better in odd numbers when in smaller groups (though, some people say otherwise or have never observed it) of fish - like 21 Boraras brigittae instead of 900 Boraras brigittae. In the wild, fish aren't always going to appear in even, set groups. So having an odd number when you have a decent sized group can appear less planned.
It's also about aesthetic in smaller tanks and trying to keep things looking natural or beautiful and unplanned. It's why people use the golden ratio instead of centering hardscape in a tank.
Originally Posted by AdamC13 View Post
Are you saying the two different types would school together making it look mixed up? Also any reason you seem to be recommending odd numbers or is that just your preference? My OCD hates odd numbers when it comes to fish hahaha.
|I already have mine notched for a skimmer. Im also going to see if I can rig up some kind of plumbing to do a spraybar that goes across the entire back of the tank blowing forwards. If I do that will i need to make each hole the same size or make the ones closer to the pump output smaller then progressively bigger for constant pressure?
Mixing schools in a small tank just makes it look like a traffic jam in my experience.
As for the odd numbers thing, you are never going to be able to count exactly how many boraras in a heavily planted 12 gallon biocube so don't worry about it
If you do boraras you may want to put some screen over the filter intakes to prevent having a school of fish in the sump and I'd highly recommend looking at some of the reef keeper's tricks and modifications for biocubes, most of them are applicable to freshwater (except the biomedia removal, you want a bus load of bio media in your tank) and will help keep things flowing better.
|Are you saying the two different types would school together making it look mixed up? Also any reason you seem to be recommending odd numbers or is that just your preference? My OCD hates odd numbers when it comes to fish hahaha.
The tank's dimensions are so small that you should likely just stick with a single school. You could do 15-17 Boraras of some sort to start. Maybe even bump things up to 21 because they're so tiny. It'll just look like a mishmash of fish if you mix similar types up in a tank that's so small.
That, coupled with shrimp and you'll have a terrific tank.
|Any input?
Stocking a 12 gallon bio cube
So I have a 12 gallon jbj biocube in the planning stages and have a few questions. First to give a few details it will be low-medium light with no CO2 and will be HEAVILY planted from the start (I'm taking my time on this setup and waiting until I can afford all the plants I want all at once)
I'm wondering if I can get away with 2 schools of microfish. I'm thinking 8-10 chili rasboras and 8-10 microdevario kubotai. The only other inhabitants, if any will be some cherry shrimp as well as some various snails (either MTS or ramshorn or nerites or a combination) Will I be able to get away with 16-20 fish in a tank this size? It seems to me like they are small enough to where bioload wont be a huge issue with regular water changes and very heavy planting.
Before someone says it already thought about/tried aqua advisor and I simply cant figure out how to plug in the filter of something like this since it is a built in sump. If not 8-10 of both how many of one could I get away with because I really don't want schools smaller than 9 or 10
|Posting Rules
You may post new threads
You may post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts
BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off


text: I am looking at starting Beekeeping this year. I am building my own hives, from this site. I have a feral hive in a wall of bulding here. I am working on the beevac, to aid in moving the hive. I would like any advice on starting out. The hive is very calm right now.


text:
Latest Weather Blog
Nephew faces charges shooting of reality TV star
BROCKTON, MA - A Massachusetts man is due to be arraigned on assault charges in the shooting of his uncle, reality TV star Benzino.
Authorities say Benzino, whose real name is Raymond Scott, was shot and injured Saturday while riding in his mother's funeral procession.
Gai Scott, of Randolph, Mass., was taken into custody and charged with assault with intent to murder. He is scheduled to be arraigned Monday in Plymouth District Court.
Authorities say Scott pulled up alongside the hip-hop artist's Bentley and opened fire.
A spokeswoman for South Shore Hospital in South Weymouth said Sunday Benzino was listed in good condition. He is a cast member of the VH1 reality show "Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta" and CEO of Hip-Hop Weekly.
It wasn't known if Scott is represented by a lawyer.


text:
Final approval of consolidation of the San Anselmo Police Department with the Twin Cities Police Authority is just one step away after the San Anselmo Town Council's unanimous endorsement of the plan Wednesday.
All that is needed now is for the Corte Madera Town Council to grant its approval. The Larkspur Town Council unanimously approved the plan last week. Larkspur and Corte Madera teamed up to form the Twin Cities Police Authority more than 30 years ago.
San Anselmo Town Manager Debra Stutsman said there was no opposition to the plan. San Anselmo council members Kay Coleman and Jeff Kroot had initially expressed reservations, but later changed their minds.
Stutsman estimates consolidation will save San Anselmo $800,000 to $900,000 a year. She said most of the savings stem from a need for fewer managerial employees. San Anselmo police Chief Charles Maynard has announced his retirement, effective Thursday, after serving 13 years as chief.
As part of the deal, some San Anselmo police personnel have agreed to a change in their retirement benefits. Currently, some of those employees have the option to retire at age 50 with a pension equal to 3 percent of their salary for every year of service while others must wait until age 55 for the same remuneration. After consolidation, all of the employees will have to wait until age 55.
"That was a huge incentive for us," said Councilman Tom McInerney.
McInerney said that while there may be some other aspects of town government that could be consolidated, such as public works or recreation, "this is the big one just because there is so much money involved with police."
Stutsman said that in addition to saving money the plan will result in more police officers on patrol in San Anselmo. Local officers will continue to work out of the San Anselmo police station at 525 San Anselmo Ave. The front counter at the station will also continue to be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. When the counter is closed, anyone needing to reach police can use a phone outside the building that connects directly to a police dispatcher.
If all goes according to plan and the Corte Madera Town Council grants its approval, the new Central Marin Police Authority will have 58 full-time workers, including 45 sworn officers. The new authority will be overseen by a six-member police council that will include two council members from each of the three municipalities. McInerney and Councilman Ford Greene will represent San Anselmo on the new authority's council initially.
Contact Richard Halstead via e-mail at email@example.com


text:
Shot and killed his GF then went to Arrowhead and killed himself!!! JESUS!!
Shot and killed his GF then went to Arrowhead and killed himself!!! JESUS!!
I stopped fighting my inner demons. We're on the same side now.
That is why people should stay single.
This is crazy!! I bet the fans feel like crap booing an injured Matt Cassell, now this. That whole city needs to reevaluate themselves.
Tragic. Apparently, a troubled individual. Not much for Chef fans to cheer about this year.
They'll blame roid rage. Or guns. Or the NFL, in general.
Christ. Tragic news. Really hope his daughter is looked after now. Only 3 months old
3 month baby girl without her mom or pop...****'s terrible
NFL Championships : 1927 1934 1938 1956 Super Bowl Champions: XXI XXV XLII XLVI
Apparently, he shot himself in front of Pioli and Romeo. Don't think that you ever get over seeing something like that . . .. .


text:
Volunteer - Your Actions Matter!
Volunteers are a vital part of what makes Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium an exciting and educational experience for guests. We offer volunteer opportunities in many areas of the Zoo and in both aquariums. If you have a passion for animals, conservation, and the environment, please check out the volunteering avenues below. See which one fits your interests!
Looking for a job shadow or career information? Check out our Career Discovery Programs and Career Day information. Many of these opportunities may satisfy your school's job shadow or service requirements.
Adult Volunteers
Adult volunteers assist with a variety of activities around the zoo from on-grounds education to greeting guests at the front entrance. Review our volunteer openings to see what opportunities are available.
Questions? Please contact the Volunteer Office at email@example.com or call (253) 404-3687.
Youth Volunteers
Conservation Projects
Join Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium in a project supporting conservation and authentic scientific research!
Put your passion to work...
Snacks for Species
Service Projects (group or individual)