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Chat with Terry Blount
Welcome to SportsNation! On Wednesday, ESPN.com NASCAR writer Terry Blount will stop by to talk about all the latest news and notes from around the NASCAR track.
Blount covers motorsports for ESPN.com after 25 years as a sports reporter and was recently inducted into the Texas Motorsports Hall of Fame for his contribution as a reporter and columnist.
Send your questions now and join Blount Wednesday at 2 p.m. ET!
More Terry Blount: Chats | Search | NASCAR index
Terry Blount (2:04 PM)
Hey gang. Here at Daytona. What's on your mind.
Greg (South Bend, IN.)
Hey Terry, How about a shout out to Chris Meyers from FOX. I can't even begin to imagine.....
Terry Blount (2:05 PM)
We all were devastated at ther news. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Chris and his family.
Ron (Mt Eaton)
I see Kyle hasn't changed. He still does his annoying hand to his ear gesture to incite the fans after the win.
Terry Blount (2:05 PM)
Just part of the show Ron. If that's the worst thing he does this year, he'll probably win the title.
Ron (Mt Eaton)
Why are so few of the media picking Stewart to be a top 3 driver? By picking up Addington and getting Penske secrets with him plus getting Zippy and the JGR secrets, I think he has made one of the best improvements to his team of all teams.
Terry Blount (2:07 PM)
Because Tony caught lightning in a bottle last year in the Chase, winning five times. The odds of doing that again are remote. Neverthless, he's a great driver ande will be in the hunt at the end.
Kevin (Nevada)
Does Trevor Bayne plan on continuing with the Wood brothers after 2012 or will he be running for Rousch when he moves to cup full time?
Terry Blount (2:08 PM)
Too far away to know at this point Kevin. Trevor just wants a full-time Cup ride somewhere.
Joyce (Los Angeles)
What has surprised you the most at Daytona this week? Any big predictions?
Terry Blount (2:09 PM)
A little surprised at how fast the Fords are. But I expect the Chevys to look strong in the race. And fans may be surprsied at how good Junior will be. These new rules play into his hands.
Tyler (Kentucky)
Since Carl Edwards and Greg Biffle have already secured the front row for the 500, do they still have to run the Duels? Or do they have an option on whether they want to run them or not?
Terry Blount (2:11 PM)
They have to start the race, but there's no rule saying they can't start and park. They won't do that, of course. Carl just said he plans to race hard and if he wrecks, he thinks his back-up car is just as good as the primary. But he also said crew chief Bob Osborne wants him to be more cautious.
Tyler (Kentucky)
Why is the hype all bout Danica Patrick this season? She come to NASCAR, and has to literally be told how to drive around the track. I just don't understand why she's so hyped up! Is there something I'm not seeing?
Terry Blount (2:13 PM)
Danica is one of the most well-known sports celebrities in the country. When we write about her it usually gets more clicks than anything we do. That's why. But she's also a much better driver than you give her credit for.
Ron (Mt Eaton)
Do you see any of the 39 already qualified drivers parking before 10 laps completed of the duels? I do. Starting position doesn't mean as much as a non-wrecked car.
Terry Blount (2:14 PM)
Not after 10 laps. A couple might go to the garage early, but they want to stay out there and learn as much as they can is race-type conditions.
Ron (Mt Eaton)
Most years Stewart will not have to win 5 chase races to win the title. JJ only won 1 chase race in 2010.
Terry Blount (2:15 PM)
True, but Carl would have won the title last year under that scenario.
Phoenix (AZ)
With Rowdy's amazing saves and shootout win is it possible the young man is still improving?
Terry Blount (2:16 PM)
People forget he's only 26 years old, so yes, he can still improve. And that's scary considering how good he is now, talent wise.
jack (phx, az)
How do you see jpm doing this yr(i.e wins on a oval track, makes the chase, etc.)? Thanks!
Terry Blount (2:17 PM)
I see the Ganassi guys being much better in 2012, but they couldn't be much worse than 2011. Ganassi has made major changes to the brain trust at EGR. It should benefit Jamie and JPM.
Chris Augur (Kentucky)
Great starting spot for Jr in the 500, any thoughts about how he will perform in the daytona 500 itself?What about Kevin Harvick? do you think he can finally get that chamiponship he deserves?
Terry Blount (2:20 PM)
First, we don't know yet if Jr will have a great starting spot. He qualified third, but isn't locked into that spot. It depends on where he finishes Thursday. I think Kevin will have a good year. I wouldn't pick him for the title, but he has a shot. I think his chances are better since he no longer owns a race team. Less distractions. And he's a very happy guy about becoming a dad this summer.
Ryan (real one) (Ventura, Ca.)
Do you think Rowdy getting penalized last year at Texas will help him mature like it did when NASCAR parked Harvick at Martinsville?
Terry Blount (2:20 PM)
If it doesn't, he's a hopeless case. But it will and it has.
Saul (San Diego)
Terry, how may cautions do you expect in the last 20 laps of the 500 and how many of the big one wrecks to do expect.
Terry Blount (2:21 PM)
Multiples of both. But it won't be as crazy as the Shootout when nothing was on the line.
Big Boof (KY)
More wins this year: Kahne or Jr.?
Terry Blount (2:21 PM)
Saul (San Diego)
Is Danica Patrick the same person/personality in a NASCAR garage as compared to the IRL garage or is she basically the same.
Terry Blount (2:22 PM)
She's seems much happier now than she was the last couple of years in IndyCar.
Ron (Mt Eaton)
Carl says he still wants to talk to other drivers. I suspect NASCAR will ignore that request.
Terry Blount (2:23 PM)
Carl can talk to whomever he wants.
Marc (Malden, MA)
Am I the only one who dislikes Kyle's nickname coming from a TERRIBLE racing movie?
Terry Blount (2:24 PM)
Hey, Days of Thunder was fun. Not very realistic at times, but fun. And the famous Robert Duvall line: "Son, rubbin is racing."
Ron (Mt Eaton)
Carl wants to talk on the radio during the race to other drivers. That is banned right now.
Terry Blount (2:25 PM)
Sorry Ron. Misunderstood. No, that ain't happening.
Marc (Malden, MA)
I think at Daytona/Talledega, drivers should be allowed to have radio conversation with everyone and there should not be overtime.
Terry Blount (2:25 PM)
Think it all you want, but neither one is changing.
Lemmy (Somewhere In Time)
Hey Terry, what's your opinion on the Jeremy Mayfield situation now? Is he just a lost cause or is there hope he can finally pick his life back together?
Terry Blount (2:27 PM)
I find the whole thing very sad.
Lemmy (Somewhere In Time)
So ESPN WON'T be running any articles that Kyle Busch is clearly more mature now this year will they?
Terry Blount (2:27 PM)
We might if he wins the title.
Damon (Dallas, TX)
I for one am loving the Danica coverage. I think she has a lot of talent and while Tony and Dale Jr may be shrewd businessmen, they wouldn't risk their reputations on money.
Terry Blount (2:28 PM)
Danica isn't the best driver out there, but she far from the worst.
Saul (San Diego)
Any updates on the 48 possible pre-race inspection failure? What I do not understand is why would they consider penalizing the 48 for a failing a pre-race inspection. The pre-race inspection is to make sure it meet the tech requirements, if it does not you go an fix the fault. I am sure in a 36 race season a bunch of cars fail inspections, do they all get penalized?
Terry Blount (2:30 PM)
Jimmie said today he still doesn't know what's going to happen with Chad, but he's hoping for the best. NASCAR takes body modifications very seriously no matter when they find it. And it doesn't help Chad that's he a repeat offender.
Ron (Mt Eaton)
Bowyer is having a rough start at MWR. In the grass for the shootout. Not passing inspection. Putting Brad K in the grass.
Terry Blount (2:30 PM)
And no one wil care if he wins the D500.
txtechjmacattack (lubbock)
from 1st practice today did it look like the 2 car tandems are back?
Terry Blount (2:33 PM)
I'm concerned that we saw way too much of that in practice. NASCAR changed the radiator psi slightly to relieve overheating, but it enabled them to push more. Bad idea if the 500 goes back to pairs racing. If that happens in the qualifying raqces, I suspect we'll see another rule change.
Marc (Malden, MA)
I was watching the 1984 Daytona 500 last night. It was so awesome seeing a 500 without restrictor plates.
Terry Blount (2:33 PM)
It was, but they can't do that now. These cars would approach apeeds of 240 mph now without the plates.
Lemmy (Somewhere In Time)
Alright, NASCAR's back for 2012. Are the odds still in Ford's favor for the races this week on the Sprint Cup level? Or will it be like the Shootout where Chevys will be up front most of the night?
Terry Blount (2:35 PM)
The Fords are strong, but anybody who rules out the Hendrick cars is making a big mistake. I also expect RCR and the Ganassi cars to run up front. And Kurt Busch will surprise people.
Zach Cross (Church hill)
Do you think Tony Stewart will help Danica win the Daytona 500
Terry Blount (2:36 PM)
Yes, if they are close to each other. But I think Tony will end up starting near the front and DP probably will start near the back.
Rob (Colorado Springs)
So, how soon do we see Courtney Force holding a Wally?
Terry Blount (2:38 PM)
Wouldn't shock me a bit to see that happen this season. That lady is the real deal, her dad made over. She impressed the heck out of me with how she ran when I was at the Winternationals. The one thing Courtney has to improve is her reaction times, but that will get better the more she runs.
Saul (San Diego)
I did not know Dale Jr when he was with DEI and where he won 99 percent of his 18 wins. Is he the same driver or has he changed.
Terry Blount (2:39 PM)
He hasn't changed, but the car has. Those wins came in the old car, not the COT.
Marc (Malden, MA)
One thing I noticed Saturday night was when the 2nd car in line ducked out to get air, it lost a lot of speed and positions. Do you see drivers risk overheating to keep speed?
Terry Blount (2:40 PM)
No, not until the end of the race, or somewhere near the end if they are desperate to get to the front.
Ted (Conway, MA)
They are doing over 197 in practice right now
Terry Blount (2:41 PM)
It's more than 199 now and six cars were over 200 in the first practice.
Del (Chicago)
So you're blaming the car for Dale E.'s futility?
Terry Blount (2:41 PM)
First, the man finished seventh in the standings last year. Hardly futile. Give him a break.
Turk (Mich.)
How much of a let down do you expect at Penske with the loss of Kurt Busch's experience, setup's and technical knowledge?
Terry Blount (2:43 PM)
Almost none. Kurt was a cancer last year with his constant complaining and bickering. Hopefully, he has learned his lesson. But the entire Pesnke group is much happier now.
Johnny (NYC)
How indicative do you think qualifying times are at Daytona in terms of being prepared for the race and/or ultimate performance. Should Junior nation be excited about being #2...how about Danica being in the top 20???
Terry Blount (2:44 PM)
Single run pole day speeds are almost meaningless here. FYI. Kahne just crashed.
Saul (San Diego)
Terry, if you could only attend one race/track and interview one driver all season, what would that be.
Terry Blount (2:46 PM)
Texas and Gordon. Second choice _ Richmond and Ambrose.
Todd (Georgia)
I agree with you about how well JR will run under this new rule package. Do you think if he wins one of these restrictor plate races people will say NASCAR changed the rules so Dale Jr. could win a race?
Terry Blount (2:46 PM)
Yes they will. And they'll be wrong.
Steve (St. Anthony, MN)
Speaking of Force: Where is Ashley Force Hood? Is she back racing after taking last year off?
Terry Blount (2:47 PM)
Ashley if the president of the JFR entertaining division and is happily enjoying being a mom. She was at the track every day in Pomona cheering on her little sister.
John (OH)
Didn't a bunch of drivers last year make incredible saves of spins? It's the fin on the rear window not some incredible talent by Busch.
Terry Blount (2:49 PM)
Wrong. The save Busch made Saturday night was the most incredible display of skill on a track I've even seen in a car that was about to crash. Even Tony Stewart said so.
Tracy (CT)
Since Junebug only has 1 win in the COT, his last win in June '08 with Eury Jr., does that mean Junebug just hasn't adapted to the COT like all the other drivers have?
Terry Blount (2:50 PM)
I think he has now. Gordon also had trouble adapting to it. But it will be different next year with the new models that look much more like production models. Still a COT chasis, but they will drive much differently.
Tyler (Chicago)
Harder race to win the Daytona 500 or the Indy 500?
Terry Blount (2:52 PM)
That's a great question. I'll say the Indy 500. In plate racing, almost anyone can win if they are in the right place at the right time in the draft. Some of the best drivers in NASCAR history never have won it, and some that aren't so great have.
aroznowski (USA)
It's prediction time! Who will win each of the Gatorade Duels, the NCWTS race, the NNS race, and the Daytona 500 this weekend?
Terry Blount (2:53 PM)
Wow. That's a lot of predicting. I won't predict the Duels. Doesn't mean much. I'll say Sauter in trucks, Stewart in NW (which would be five in a row)and Junior in the 500.
Andrew (Independence)
Will Danica lead a lap on Sunday?
Terry Blount (2:54 PM)
Maybe. Again, it's not that tough if you get a push at the right time, or stay out during a caution. It'll be fun to see who leads Lap 100 and win the $200 grand.
Jeff (Georgia)
Terry, does it look like Kahne will go too a back up car? Thanks
Terry Blount (2:55 PM)
Looks pretty bad. I don't think they've decided yet.
aroznowski (USA)
How many cars do you think will be running when the checkered flag waves on Sunday?
Terry Blount (2:56 PM)
Most of them because guys won't take the crazy chances they did in the Shootout.
Vinnie (ATL)
Worse record? Michael at Indy or Tony at Daytona?
Terry Blount (2:57 PM)
Michael Andretti almost won Indy several times. Smoke will win the Daytona 500 before he's done.
Blake (Belmont)
Do you think these guys running very limited schedules like Elliott, T. Labonte and Mikey are still qualified to be racing in the 500?
Terry Blount (2:58 PM)
Yes. They are experienced pros. In fact, they are more qualified than a lot of drivers who will be out there.
aroznowski (USA)
Do you think that the checkered flag will be taken with a big pack crossing the finish line or with two-car tandems?
Terry Blount (2:59 PM)
Two-by-two without question.
18fan (Md.)
Is it possible that Rowdy could sweep the shootout, duel and the 500 all in the same weekend?
Terry Blount (2:59 PM)
Sure it is, but I don't think it will happen.
Vinnie (ATL)
I meant which will look worse at the end of their careers. Michael never winning Indy which is totally tragic. Lost a tire! Or... If Tony never wins the Daytona 500?
Terry Blount (3:00 PM)
Gotcha. I think Tony will win this race, and it might happen Sunday.
John (OH)
Was that a 76 year old driver Hylton in ARCA? Why?
Terry Blount (3:01 PM)
Yes. Why? Because he can and ARCA allows it. Apparently he did not need a walker when he climbed out. But it was time for his nap.
John (OH)
They're wrecking during practice, I'm guessing there will be plenty of wrecks during the race.
Terry Blount (3:02 PM)
I'll say at least three multi-car crashes, and probably all of thenm will happen in the last 30 laps.
Saul (San Diego)
Which trophy would you rather have in your house, the Indy 500 or the Daytona 500.
Terry Blount (3:04 PM)
Another great question. That's a tough one. The Indy trophy is realy cool with the faces on it.
Saul (San Diego)
Do you see NASCAR telling drivers not to bump or something like that for the Daytona 500 like they gave similar instructions in the ARCA race this past Saturday?
Terry Blount (3:04 PM)
Very little chance of that.
Terry Blount (3:05 PM)
Gotta run folks. Tons to do today at the track. Have a great week and enjoy the 500 this weekend. Peace.
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Creating a cultural divide
Tamils in India and Sri Lanka must shun extremism
September 18, 2012
Why do people in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu immolate themselves, indulge in violent protests and even drive away foreign ministers when it comes to anything to do with Sri Lanka? The ethnic war on the island nation has long been over. Tamil militancy is a closed chapter. And Tamil Nadu has its own goals and worries to deal with. Yet, why do some people in that state indulge in some inexplicable acts? Yesterday, an auto rickshaw driver in the district town of Salem set himself on fire to protest against the visit to India by Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa later this week. Tamil Nadu's political parties, including the ruling AIADMK (All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam), have been opposing this visit. They consider Rajapaksa a killer of the Tamils since his government saw the extermination of the Tamil Tigers while thousands of other Tamils are said to have lost their lives. Recently, the chief minister of Tamil Nadu ordered the expulsion of a Sri Lankan youth football team that was in Chennai, the state capital, to play some friendly matches. She also suspended the officer who had allowed the hiring of a local stadium for a game. Around the same time, pro-Sri Lankan Tamil groups targeted Sri Lankan Catholic pilgrims who had travelled to the internationally known shrine of the Virgin Mary, locally known as Annai Vailankanni, near Nagapattinam. The protests were so bad that the pilgrims had to be given police protection and bundled onto the first flight back to Colombo. Weeks ago, the opposition political party in the state, DMK (Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam or the progressive party of the Dravidians) organized a huge conference and hosted many human rights and political leaders from several countries to talk about the status of Sri Lankan Tamils on the island. Do these actions impact on developments in the island? Save on some issues and occasions, the majority of people in Tamil Nadu have not really shown an interest in the affairs of Tamils living across the Palk Straits that divides India and Sri Lanka. Tamil Nadu has been a gracious host for the millions of refugees who set up many camps in the state since the early 1980s. People here have not challenged the prolonged stay of these refugees. They did however become alarmed when violence between Tamil militant groups spilled over into Tamil Nadu. But for all political parties in Tamil Nadu, many a Sri Lankan issue has been embraced, debated, campaigned and championed for at state and national levels. However, while these issues are raised by these parties to score brownie points or embarrass opponents, they have not impacted much on electoral campaigns. Also, Sri Lankan Tamils do not put much value on the acts of their brothers across the sea. Even their own political parties, while carrying on a dialogue with Tamil Nadu political groups openly say that one-upmanship and tit-for-tat acts by Tamil Nadu's parties do not help the cause of the island's community. Unfortunately, the strident acts of fringe parties and groups are creating lots of bitterness. These groups have driven away Sri Lankan ministers here on personal or official tours, caused shutdowns in towns and have begun to attack and drive away sportspeople and pilgrims. These extreme acts have not gone down well with people in Tamil Nadu. So Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa was quick to say that she asked the footballers to leave to demonstrate the people's opposition to President Rajapaksa. Pilgrims, tourists and sportspeople are welcome, she added. Every year, thousands of Buddhists and Christians from Sri Lanka visit India for pilgrimages in Tamil Nadu and in the north of the country, where many holy places associated with Lord Buddha are located. Also, thousands of middle-class Sri Lankans enjoy shopping in places such as Bangalore, Chennai and Mumbai. Indians are one of the largest groups of tourists to the island and cricketing ties are very strong. So, extremist acts in Tamil Nadu are certainly not getting the support of people in general. These acts only keep the engines of political parties and fringe groups moving. These extreme political stands have a bearing on how Indian and Sri Lankan governments address bilateral issues. Of late, these attitudes have changed. India arranged the passage of Buddha relics to the island where millions have been worshipping them across the country. India, too, is happy to host President Rajapaksa now. One issue that exposes the hollowness of Tamil Nadu's politics is their stand on fishing rights. Sri Lankan fishermen are now getting back to sea for good, following the civil war, but are challenged by fisher folk from Tamil Nadu who trawled and enjoyed the fish in Sri Lankan waters while the war raged. However, the Tamil Nadu government does not even tell its fishermen that they must stop poaching from these waters and let their brothers enjoy their catch. Political parties will pick out many issues regarding Sri Lankan Tamils. Fringe groups will get extreme. But most people in Tamil Nadu are unhappy that extreme acts are harming people-to-people relations. Vincent D'Souza is a journalist based in Tamil Nadu.
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Sunday Gospel reflection with Fr. Bill Grimm
We must be such followers of the crucified Jesus, giving our strength and even our lives for the sake of others.
Praise for pope's move to meet Rohingya refugees
The pontiff is taking bold steps during his trip that make it his most overtly political one so far
Pope to meet general in charge of Rohingya clearance operations
Rohingya political leader says dialogue with military could advance hope for peace and reconciliation
Pope adds meetings, revises Myanmar itinerary
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The Marginal Products of Residential and Non-Residential Capital Through 2009
Estimates of the marginal product of capital can help forecast economic growth, test competing business cycle theories, and perform cost-benefit analysis. This paper presents annual and quarterly estimates of the marginal product of capital in the U.S. separately for the residential and non-residential sectors. The two sectors had positively correlated marginal products until the 2000s, when the residential marginal product fell during the housing boom, and rose during the housing bust. By the end of 2009, the residential MPK was back to the level of the 1990s. Although off its lows, the non-residential MPK is still below its historical average.
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|Date of creation:
|Apr 2010
|Contact details of provider:
| Postal: National Bureau of Economic Research, 1050 Massachusetts Avenue Cambridge, MA 02138, U.S.A.
Phone: 617-868-3900
Web page: http://www.nber.org
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References listed on IDEAS
Please report citation or reference errors to , or , if you are the registered author of the cited work, log in to your RePEc Author Service profile, click on "citations" and make appropriate adjustments.:
- Feldstein, Martin & Dicks-Mireaux, Louis & Poterba, James, 1983.
"The effective tax rate and the pretax rate of return,"
Journal of Public Economics,
Elsevier, vol. 21(2), pages 129-158, July.
- Martin Feldstein & James M. Poterba & Louis Dicks-Mireaux, 1981. "The Effective Tax Rate and the Pretax Rate of Return," NBER Working Papers 0740, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc.
- Casey B. Mulligan, 2010. "Aggregate Implications of Labor Market Distortions: The Recession of 2008-9 and Beyond," NBER Working Papers 15681, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc. Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)
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- Product Description
- Specification
- Shipping Options
- Reviews
Arris Table Lamp Chrome/Black
The Arris table lamp is a beautiful piece exclusive to PAGAZZI Lighting. This lamp features a polished chrome finish throughout its base which helps to complement the unique ribbed design. The Arris also comes complete with a black tapered shade included.
- PAGAZZI Exclusive.
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The height and diameter of the Arris table lamp are 450 and 250mm respectively. It also requires an SES (E14 cap) light bulb with a wattage not exceeding 40w.
Additional Information
|Height (mm)
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|Number of Bulbs
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Late last night the Florida Division of Elections announced that the Florida Marriage Protection Amendment is now certified for the November 4, 2008 ballot with a total of 649,346 petitions. Within the last two weeks, 92,000 petitions were collected in order to exceed the 611,009 required before the February 1 deadline.
The amendment defines marriage as the union of one man and one woman and would prohibit polygamy, group marriage, and same sex marriage from being recognized in Florida. The fight to bring this amendment to the ballot has been a coordinated effort by many individuals, organizations and churches. John Stemberger, State Chairman of Florida4Marriage.org, the official sponsor of the amendment, is to be commended for his extraordinary work in coordinating the petition drive. No marriage amendment effort in any state has gathered as many signatures.
In December, the Florida Division of Elections web site reported that more than enough petitions had counted and verified by the Supervisors of Elections, but then indicated in January that approximately 30,000 of the petitions were thrown out causing a shortage of approximately 22,000 petitions. With only two weeks remaining, groups and individuals all over the state rallied to collect more signatures to meet the February 1 deadline.
The process to amend the state constitution to protect marriage began in 2005 after a series of lawsuits were filed challenging Florida's Defense of Marriage Act (which Mat Staver drafted) that was passed in 1997. A coalition of groups joined together and agreed on the language of the Florida Marriage Protection Amendment that was drafted by Mat and Anita Staver. In January 2006, Mat Staver presented oral argument in defense of the language, and on March 23, 2006, the Florida Supreme Court in a 7-0 opinion rejected the ACLU's challenge to the marriage amendment. Following the ruling by the Court, the task became obtaining the required number of signatures.
The marriage amendment states: "Inasmuch as marriage is the legal union of only one man and one woman, no other legal union that is treated as marriage or the substantial equivalent thereof shall be valid or recognized."
When I heard the Florida Marriage Protection Amendment was certified for the ballot, words could not express my exhilaration. I am thankful that so many pastors and community leaders came together in a coordinated effort to accomplish the largest grassroots petition initiative in Florida's history. The fact that so many people poured their hearts into this marriage amendment underscores the broad support to protect traditional marriage. The wave of citizens will turn into a tsunami of voters who will go to the polls in November to pass the Florida Marriage Protection Amendment. This is a victory for the family, for the children and for the future of Florida.


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The Top Level Of Professional Basketball On Both The International And National Level
A fast-paced game that requires a lot of strength and agility, as well as tactics and strategy, is the real definition of basketball. Whenever someone mentions basketball, we all think about NBA, and some people would also think about Euro League. These two competitions represent the peak of this sport, where the NBA has the best players and the best teams. International cups, like FIBA Basketball World Cup, do exist but the quality of the game is somewhat weaker than in those two leagues mentioned above.
FIBA Basketball World Cup
This is the biggest and most prestigious international basketball competition that attracts millions of fans. The top ranking basketball nations gather to play against each other in this tournament. Nations gain the right to compete on this level through continental competitions and Olympic Games.
A total of 24 teams competes in this prestigious cup, out of which 18 teams have to go through qualifiers. The host team doesn't have to go through qualifiers, as well as the current Olympic Champion.
FIBA aka International Basketball Federation has the right to give a wild-card entry to four nations. Those teams failed to qualify for the tournament, but the quality of their basketball is high, and FIBA believes that they can compete on equal terms with those that did gain their entry through qualifications.
Another prestigious international competition is the EuroBasket, which is same as World Cup but just on the level of Europe. The quality of European Basketball makes it second largest general basketball assembly. The top six teams from this competition gain a direct ticket to the FIBA Basketball World Cup.
NBA and EuroLeague – Top national basketball leagues
NBA is the pinnacle of professional basketball and there is no doubt about that. The best players from all national leagues train, and work hard, in the hope of becoming a part of this American League. And it's safe to say that NBA players play the most attractive form of this game. Dunking is very common in NBA, while it is somewhat rare in other competitions. The number of professional stars and rules makes it possible for those players to execute fast and eye-catching attacks. A lot of strategies comes into play as well, but many prominent players have freedom to build their own game.
For player to become a part of an NBA team, they have to go through drafting. This process happens every year, and people join drafts either from College League or other countries and their leagues.
EuroLeague is the most prominent basketball club league in Europe, and second only to NBA, on an international level. Top clubs from all European national leagues play in this competition throughout the year. A club that joins this contest can't play in their domestic league, as the number of games they would have to play, would exceed the realms of possible. Basketball that you can see in this competition is a bit slower than in NBA, as tactics mean more due to the diversity of teams.


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GroundCover™ Issue: 44
A HANDY guide for identifying summer weeds has been produced by Victorian Institute of Dryland Agriculture (VIDA), Horsham, with the support of the GRDC. Summer Weeds: The Ute Guide features descriptions and photos of seedlings and mature plants of 40 common summer weeds. It also includes a map of Australia which shows the distribution and frequency for each weed and a calendar indicating the months it is likely to be present either as seedlings/new growth or as mature plants. Senior author of the guide is Michael Moerkerk of VIDA.
Copies are available for $25 from the TOPCROP Resource Centre 1800 652 483.


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Polished shoes look great and last longer. Here's how to make a top-rate shoe polish from things that you already have at home:

INGREDIENTS:

Olive oil

Lemon juice

PREPARATION:

1. Combine one part lemon juice with two parts olive oil to form a polish.

2. Use a clean cloth to rub a small amount of the polish into your shoes. Then, allow it to soak in for a few minutes.

3. Buff with another cloth, and enjoy your shiny shoes!

Benefits of Using Homemade Shoe Polish:

inexpensive

chemical-free

environnmentally-friendly

all-natural

Tips and Warnings:

1) Apply to clean, dry shoes. You definitely don't want to lock in dirt and stains by coating them with polish, so take the time to give your shoes a good cleaning first.

2) Polish your shoes monthly, or as needed, to extend the life of your leather shoes. This will keep the leather from splitting.

3) Cheap olive oil works just as well as more expensive grades.

4) This recipe is intended for leather -- not suede. Applying oil to suede will result in stains.

Other Ways to Polish Leather Shoes (Without Buying Polish)

 A Banana Peel - Use the inside of a banana peel to shine your shoes. Just rub the peel over your leather shoes, and the oils in the peel will restore your shoes to their original polish. Toss the peel in your compost afterwards, and there won't be any waste.

 Homemade Shoe Paste - If you polish your shoes often, consider making your own can of shoe paste to replace the store-bought version. Just melt equal parts beeswax, a solid oil (like cocoa butter) and a liquid oil (like olive oil) over a double boiler, and pour it into an empty container. Allow it to harden fully. Then, it's ready to use. Just work it into your shoes; wipe off the excess; and then you're good to go again. The oil will condition and polish your shoes, while the beeswax will add a protective coating to protect against water, salt and any other grime you come into contact with.

 Buy Beeswax on Amazon

Deodorize Stinky Shoes

While you're busy sprucing up your shoes, it may be time to deodorize them, too. There are two easy ways to accomplish this. You can stick your shoes outside for a few hours, and let the sun work its sanitizing magic on them, or you can simply sprinkle baking soda inside them; leave it for a little while; then, come back and shake it out.

Extend the Life of Your Shoes

Try not to wear your shoes two days in a row, if you can avoid it. Allowing your shoes time to breathe and dry out between uses will make them last a lot longer.

More Ways to Make Shoes Last Longer

Want to save more money? , and get a fresh batch of tips delivered to your inbox each week.


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The Business of Mobile Collaboration
More and more companies are embracing mobile technology as an essential workforce asset. People are connecting to their colleagues from home offices, airport lounges, coffee shops, taxicabs, park benches…anywhere on the map really!
Staff can be located anywhere, but they can still work, meet, and achieve common goals together. They just do it virtually. It's convenient, its' fulfilling, and it's cost-effective. However, the ability to work remotely also raises some unique challenges. What's the best way to create a cohesive team when they're usually in transit or in different locations? How do you keep them motivated? How do you ensure they're properly equipped to perform their jobs successfully? Here is some guidance on establishing a mobile collaboration strategy for your organization.
Boosting Individual Productivity
Mobile technology offers flexibility, access, and productivity for each member of your team. The laptop, smartphone, tablet, and headset are ranked as the top four critical communication devices when working remotely. Access to information and maintaining a connection – in the cloud or on enterprise systems – is critical to enabling an individual's productivity. It must always be on and always be ready to help streamline workflow at all times, in all places. When people have easy access to one another – through IM, or a collaboration workspace – it leads to more information sharing in real time, which in turn helps build the collective knowledge of the team, while at the same time strengthening relationships between team members.
Building Stronger Teams
Many employees see the need for continual contact with colleagues. 90% rely heavily on messaging apps, while 72% rely on collaboration applications. The more that a team is in communication with one another, the more that knowledge is exchanged. And with knowledge-sharing comes more creative thinking, greater innovation, and ultimately, fast time-to-market. The ability to work within a common virtual space where information can be shared in real time and meetings with full video and audio can happen fluidly help bridge the distances between team members.
To sum up…
Mapping a workable mobile collaboration ecosystem starts with examining the individual needs of your team members, then looking at how your team members are working together. It's critical to foster that culture of collaboration where an individual's efforts are collectively encouraged, but a group's collaborative achievements are recognized and rewarded.
Here's what to expect when you have a mobile collaboration strategy in place:
- Productivity increases with remote access
- Collaborative workflows improve with mobile collaboration tools
- Decisions get made faster
- Remote teams share one community
- Work and life come together
Why PCM for your Mobility Solutions?
- Enterprise Mobility Management (EMM)
- Client Virtualization
- Endpoint & Mobility Software
- Endpoint Mobility Services
Share your thoughts and questions in the comment section below. To get the latest news from PCM, follow @PCM on Twitter, join us on Facebook, or connect with us on LinkedIn. To get the latest news sent straight to your inbox, join our newsletter.


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You are here
Top Tips for Finding Federal Contracts
By: Sherri Komrosky
Business Opportunity Specialist
North Dakota District Office
Government contracting can be great for small business, and researching these opportunities online can be a great place to start. However, searching the internet for government opportunities can also be extremely frustrating. If you are not familiar with the process, a simple search can present a list of solicitations that can take days to review. How can you simplify the effort while still keeping it effective? We have a few tips:
Tip 1: Make sure you are registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) at: https://www.sam.gov. You cannot bid on federal solicitations unless you are registered in this database. This mandatory registration is FREE of charge, so make sure you are on the official site as there are many commercial website designs that appear similar to the official government site and they charge fees!
Tip 2: Complete registration in the Dynamic Small Business Search database. The Small Business Administration maintains the Dynamic Small Business Search (DSBS) database. It is tied to your SAM registration, so once you have completed your SAM registration you will be asked to update your small business profile. The information provided in SAM populates the DSBS. It is another tool contracting officers use to identify small businesses.
You can also use DSBS to view information about your competitors, therefore make sure your profile corresponds with the profile of your competition.
Tip 3: Check out government agencies "Wish Lists". The "Wish List," or forecast, is just that, a list of projects/contracts that, if the money is available, government agencies would like to purchase. The items on the wish list may or may not ever be let for bid, but by watching this list you can maintain an awareness of planned projects or potential contracts.
There are many helpful web sites available when researching forecasts. Acquisition Central lets you search forecasts by agency.
Tip 4: Search FedBizOpps. Though federal agencies are required to post available procurement opportunities to the public for all contracts valued over $25,000, many agencies post projects below this threshold.
There are three or more ways to search on this site. The first method is to search "ALL". While you may do this once just to get a feel, it can easily cause information overload.
With experience you will find the best method is to search FedBizOpps by keyword and enter your product/service or zip code. Using this method you can find all solicitations for "cheese", or "computers" or "socks" or "food services" or whatever you may wish to sell to the government. This method will limit the listing of interested contracts most effectively.
If you are interested in working with a particular agency, you can also Search by Agency. From there you can check the site for contracts with the agency that best fits your product or service.
You can also use this database to search past contract awards for more data around market size and competition.
Tip 5: Once you find a solicitation you are interested in … Print it out! Print the page and save all the information you find as a hardcopy. You may find a contract on the internet and then lose the site or bookmark "favorite". When you go back to the site you can't find it again. If you didn't print it out it could be lost forever. You can also use this as a scribble copy!
Tip 6: You can set FedBizOps up to do searches or you can subscribe to a BID MATCHING Service. In North Dakota, the Impact Procurement and Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) can help you set up a search profile in their bid matching system. Your matches are delivered to you via email every afternoon. It is free and will save you countless hours of searching, so register on their website for a meeting!
Impact PTAC provides this service and one-on-one procurement assistance free of charge. All states have a PTAC and most provide this service free or for a very reasonable fee. You can find PTAC's in other states at http://www.aptac-us.org.
Tip 7: Keep the name of the contact person. Call and/or write to them with your questions. Read the entire solicitation, write your questions down and submit them all in one letter or email. Before you do this, check the solicitation website to see if these questions have been addressed by other parties. There are times when a phone call can work best, but a written request with a written reply is much more reliable. Do not call them continually with one question at a time and make sure you check to see if there is a timeframe for asking for clarifications.
Tip 8: Check State Agency websites. Consider state agencies! North Dakota has a website similar to SAM specifically for the purpose of providing access to state solicitations – http://www.nd.gov/spo. This is the site which, after proper registration, pushes information to you rather than requiring you to search each day. If you want to bid on state solicitations, you must be registered on this site.
Tip 9: Check the sites often for updates and amendments. You must make sure your bid reflects all amendments. If the opportunity was on FedBizOpps be sure to register as an "Interested Vendor" and "Watch Me" so you are notified if there are any changes.
Tip 10: Your SAM.gov registration must be updated to stay active. I recommend you do so at least every 6 months. You will receive emails from "sam.gov" to remind you your password expires (180 days) and automated emails at 60, 30 and 10 days before your SAM profile expires. If you don't update your profile it becomes inactive and is no longer listed.
Finding and bidding on contracts is a long journey. These 10 tips will help you to become proficient, so keep trying, and don't get discouraged!
Sherri Komrosky is a Business Opportunity Specialist for the North Dakota District Office. In this position, she is responsible for assisting North Dakota small businesses gain access to government contracting opportunities and utilize the federal 8(a) and HUBZone programs. Prior to joining SBA, Sherri served was the Minnesota Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) Program Director for 10 years; Northern Minnesota Area Manager for 15 years; and with the North Dakota PTAC for 2 years. Her government experience began with the VA Medical Center in Fargo where she held various positions during her 8 years there, many in the procurement area. Sherri can be reached at firstname.lastname@example.com.


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We know that keeping your van on the road is vital to your business. We also appreciate that keeping costs down is key to your profitability.
That's why we offer up to four years free servicing with new Volkswagen Vans. Your vehicle will be inspected to the highest standards and should it need any work, we will fully explain this to you and won't begin work until you authorise us to do so.
As you'd expect, all work is carried out by trained technicians and comes with a 2-year labour warranty. We also fit genuine Volkswagen parts (with a 2-year parts warranty) that are designed and manufactured to keep your vehicle performing at its best. On top of that, we offer a collection and return service, a while you wait appointment and if needed a like-for like van replacement. We'll even wash your vehicle free of charge following a service.
At Donnelly Volkswagen we understand you are busy, that's why we have flexible bookings times available at our service department to suit your schedule. Late evening appointments are available by arrangement, please call our service team for more information.
Donnelly Volkswagen Eglinton on 028 7122 0512
Donnelly Volkswagen Enniskillen on 028 6633 0309
Donnelly Volkswagen Dungannon on 028 8744 0409
*Plus VAT. Offer available on new Amarok, Caddy, Crafter, Transporter, Transporter Shuttle, Caravelle and California vehicles purchased from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle Financial Services with 0 miles and less than 3 months old. Offer available for orders by 2nd April 2017 Services must be used consecutively prior to vehicle reaching 8 years old. Services must be used consecutively. Offers are not available in conjunction with any other offer and may be varied or withdrawn at any time. Terms and conditions apply. Finance subject to status. Accurate at time of publication 01/2017. Available with Contract Hire or Finance Lease. Finance subject to status. 18s and over. T&C's apply. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle Financial Services.


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Tweet this!
(this evening)
1. I am grateful for a husband who expresses his feelings for me spontaneously and generously. Today he said completely out of the blue, "I love having you as a wife. I have never once wished for you to be any different". He says stuff like that all the time, and I roll my eyes a lot and probably take it far too much for granted. When it comes down to it, knowing that I am unconditionally loved by a good man is probably the greatest blessing of my life. I am grateful that I get so much time with him, and that an evening at the grocery store with him is a truly fun and satisfying excursion.
2.I am grateful for friends and family who forgive me so readily when I am petulant, moody, immature, temperamental or hypocritical. I am grateful to be surrounded by relationships with people who are better than I am and who are always willing to give me the benefit of the doubt and another chance to be a better human being.
3. I am grateful for a beautiful, Spring-like day in mid-November, and the chance to spend some time outside. Ella, Aaron and I are all under the weather and had a really long and utterly sleepless night, so a lot of the day was spent being in a sluggish fog. We finally got to spend some time outside in the mild fresh air this evening. It was so calming and restorative to watch as the sky slowly became painted with water colours, and the outlines of the trees became crisp silhouettes. There is really nothing more soothing to body or soul than being outdoors.
4. As I walked with Ella and Shemly from the lovely park where my kids and husband were enjoying a sunset pick up soccer game, to drop in on a friend this evening, I realized that living where we live allows us many idyllic moments. It struck me quite forcefully as I walked, enjoying the dusky light and the crunching leaves that no, my life is not perfect,but there are many elements within it which are just as I always dreamed they would be. I love that my kids play outside with friends in a non-formal way every day. I love that they exercise and socialize outside safely and spontaneously without any adult initiation or interference. I love that I have a friend that I can drop in on, unannounced with dog and baby in tow.
5. In the wake of a very tragic event in our community today, I am so grateful that I have my faith and belief in an afterlife, and in the knowledge that there is a God who knows and loves us more than we can comprehend. I am grateful that I know that my family relationships will not end with death. I am grateful to know that I have constant access to the Comforter and I am grateful that no matter how devastating and painful our trials may be, ultimately, the "peace which passeth all understanding" is available to anyone who asks for it.
5 and 10
Tweet this!
Posted by Kirsty at Saturday, November 10, 2012
Labels: Aaron, Family, Friends, Gratitude, Spirituality
1 comments:
- Anonymous said...
The freedom of movement that your community offers is indeed something to be grateful for. Gives kids independance and growth. We have less of that here nowadays which is so sad.
- November 12, 2012 at 2:34 AM


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Create an Account - Increase your productivity, customize your experience, and engage in information you care about.
The City of Midland will launch a new website on Thursday, Oct. 17.
The website will have enhanced functionality and interactivity as well as a cleaner, easier layout to navigate.
Residents will still be able to notify city officials of problems as ...Read on...


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- Volunteer Abroad
- Intern Abroad
- Adventure Tours
- Wildlife Programs
- Gap Year Abroad
- Group Programs
- Study Abroad
Continents:Asia Africa Latin America
Countries:Brazil Costa Rica Ecuador Ghana Guatemala Kenya Nepal Peru Tanzania Uruguay Zanzibar
Other Info:Testimonials
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Information on Ecuador
Ecuador is one of the travel, volunteer, and internship abroad destinations in the International Volunteer Travel program. Ecuador is in western South America, bordering the Pacific Ocean, Columbia, and Ecuador. It has a total size of 283,560 sq km (i.e. slightly smaller than Nevada in USA), and includes 2,237 km of coastline. The per capita GDP (purchasing power) of Ecuador is about USD 3700 per year (2004 estimate).
Quito, Ecuador Capital City
Quito, the capital city of Ecuador, is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city surrounded by mountains, and coffee plantations. It has numerous internet cafes, shopping malls, fast food chains, rental car agencies and much more. The city is also home to a number of international businesses.
The Geography of Ecuador
Geographically speaking, Ecuador is a very unique and diverse country. Ecuador boasts of alluring jungles, rolling valleys teaming with life, and the majestic Andes mountains. Ecuador is also known for the highest active volcano in the world, Cotopaxi, in the Andes. All this makes for a beautiful and unique landscape that captivates ecotourism lovers. Ecuador also offers a variety of activities including horseback riding, hiking mountainous paths and observing the various flora and fauna of the country.
The people of Ecuador are most welcoming; the landscape spellbinding nature lovers and those fascinated by diverse Latin American cultures will have an awesome experience.
As an international volunteer, some of your placements may be with organizations working towards protecting the environment and also promoting environmental consciousness among the local people.
There will be time to learn Ecuadorian culture, to laugh with children, try out your Espanol in the market, and let your eyes feast on breathtaking geographical features. This is the beckoning land of Ecuador in South America.


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Volunteer at our Races & Events
42.366062, -71.048294)
Cause Areas
WhenIt's flexible! We'll work with your schedule.
WhereGreater BostonBoston, MA 02109
For more information about our BRR Volunteer Program, please visit our website: http://bostonroadrunners.org/2017-volunteer
Volunteering at a BRR event is the perfect way to give back, connect with your community, and get inspired before your next race!
Here are the top reasons why you should volunteer today:
- Connect with us: In your off-season or while you're recovering from an injury, stay in touch with your fellow runners by volunteering. You'll get news about the community and updates on what's happening around BRR.
- Meet great people: Among the local standouts, BRR staff, and other cool people you might not have the opportunity to meet otherwise, you may find your new best friend or meet the love of your life at one of our races!
- Share your love of the sport with others. You can invite your friends, family, and school or community groups to do community service together with you.
- Volunteering will earn you free/discounted race entries.
Good Match For
Teens People 55+ Group
Requirements & Commitment
- 4-6 Hours


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After the September 11 attacks on New York and Washington, Congress and the Bush Administration worked to address the task of adequately funding homeland security. They largely succeeded. Estimates suggest that spending on domestic security is up to two-and-one-half times greater than before 9/11.1 Yet just throwing money at the problem is not enough. Appropriators now need to turn their attention to long-term funding.
Winning the war on terrorism is a strategic challenge--and strategic challenges require strategic solutions. President George W. Bush has proposed a homeland security budget for fiscal year (FY) 2005 that represents responsible growth.2 As congressional appropriations committees review the budget request, they should be guided by a set of strategic principles that will ensure that smart spending--not just increased spending--is the guiding vision for enhancing homeland security. These principles include:
- Placing a priority on investments that will create a true national preparedness system;
- Developing federal capacity to respond to catastrophic terrorism;
- Getting the "biggest bang for the buck" by supporting programs that will make the most efficient and effective use of federal dollars;
- Watching information technology (IT) investments closely;
- Funding critical human capital programs; and
- Balancing funding for homeland security tasks with other missions.
The State of Spending
The challenges of homeland security are not new. As the threat of transnational terrorism grew over the last decade, federal spending on homeland security also increased. From FY 1995 to FY 2001 annual appropriations grew from about $9 billion to $16 billion.3 Many of these funds were spent haphazardly on individual initiatives, some of which were poorly conceived and managed. Most programs bore little relation to one another. One comprehensive analysis concluded that programming "mushroomed without supervision, evaluation, or coordination, resulting in a confusing mess."4 In addition, it was far from clear whether federal programs had addressed all the essential tasks of providing homeland security--from guarding borders to preparing for the consequences of a terrorist attack.
Much to the Bush Administration's credit, early on it crafted a national homeland security strategy that defined critical mission areas.5 The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) worked to identify activities and appropriations that fit under each mission area. For FY 2005, the Administration proposes to spend about $47.4 billion on domestic security programs. The budget provides allocations for border and transportation security (36 percent), protecting critical infrastructure and key assets (30 percent), emergency preparedness and response (19 percent), domestic counterterrorism programs (7 percent), developing counters to catastrophic threats (7 percent), and intelligence and early warning operations (less than 1 percent).6 The Administration's efforts offer legislators a strategic framework for evaluating the scope of federal investments in domestic programs.
The Bush Administration's approach to homeland security rightly eschews the notion that there is a single, "silver bullet" solution to stopping terrorism. Rather, the President has adopted a multi-layered system that assumes no one security initiative will suffice. This strategy provides multiple opportunities to thwart or mitigate terrorist acts.7 Security is not provided by a single initiative, but by the cumulative effect of all the homeland security programs. For example, a terrorist might be discovered by an overseas intelligence operation while applying for a visa; by screening an international flight manifest; during inspection at a port of entry; or during a domestic counterterrorism investigation. Thus, improving security requires ensuring that each layer of the system is sufficient to do its part of the job and that efforts are complementary.
Helping to strengthen the system overall is the most vital contribution that Congress can make to safeguard the homeland. It is appropriate for Congress to examine whether the balance of investments in the FY 2005 budget and the scope of the programs they represent are adequate.
Strategic Principles for Homeland Security Funding
Congress faces a daunting task in evaluating how well the Administration has matched strategic plans to its funding priorities. As the Congressional Budget Office points out, homeland security activities are funded through 200 different appropriations accounts.8 Congressional appropriators must consider how all these efforts are expected to work in concert. Merely disbursing funds to meet many demands risks spending a little on everything and not providing much security for anything.
Investing in the wrong priorities can be equally troubling. Appropriators simply cannot address homeland security funding in a piecemeal fashion. They must wade through a maze of proposals without losing sight of the big picture. Congress needs a set of strategic guiding principles that will allow smart spending to replace more spending.
Principle #1: Build a National Homeland Security System
The first and highest priority for federal spending must be investments that assist in creating a true national preparedness system--not merely supplementing the needs of state and local governments. Dollars that might be needed to equip every state and U.S. territory with sufficient resources to conduct each critical homeland security task could run into the hundreds of billions.9 Although the federal government has a responsibility to assist states and cities in providing for homeland security, it cannot service every one of their needs. Indeed, state and local governments are having difficulty absorbing and efficiently using the federal funds that are already available.10
Federal funding should focus on programs that will make all Americans safer. That includes providing state and local governments with the capability to integrate their counterterrorism, preparedness, and response efforts into a national system; and expanding their capacity to coordinate support, share resources, and exchange and exploit information. In addition, the federal government must enhance its own capacity to increase situational awareness of national homeland security activities and to shift resources where and when they are needed.
Following the principle of making the establishment of a national homeland security system a priority, appropriations should focus on programs that make the greatest contribution to that end. As the congressionally chartered Gilmore Commission concluded, the goal should be to provide "an enterprise-wide capacity to plan, equip, train, and exercise against measurable standards."11 Emphasis should be on efforts that enhance interoperable communications and information sharing, joint planning and exercises, leader and staff training, and mutual-support programs.
Thus, for example, Congress should fully fund programs such as the Homeland Security Information Network (HSIN)--which will link states, territories, and major urban areas to the Department of Homeland Security Operations Center (HSOC).12 Collaborative tools such as HSIN are essential for establishing the interactive communications necessary to support implementation of the Homeland Security Advisory System. On the other hand, Congress should be skeptical of programs--such as the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Programs--that dole out money with only limited impact on individual communities.13
Principle #2: Prepare for Catastrophic Terrorism
The age when only great powers could bring great powers to their knees is over. Long before 9/11, national security experts argued that modern technology and militant terrorist ideologies are creating conditions that increase the potential for catastrophic attacks--risking tens of thousands of lives and threatening hundreds of billions of dollars in damage.14 Catastrophic threats will overwhelm the response capacity of any state or local government.
The federal government must be prepared to fund the lion's share of response preparation to these threats. Priorities must be: detecting smuggled nuclear, radiological, chemical, and biological weapons; improving decontamination and medical responses to such dangers; ensuring the protection of critical infrastructure whose destruction might result in catastrophic damage; and harnessing scientific knowledge and tools for counterterrorism efforts.
For example, one priority for national efforts must be to enhance national medical care surge capacity that would be needed to respond to a catastrophic attack. Since 9/11, a significant portion of federal assistance (over one-third) has been given to developing local hospital surge capacity. This funding supports a questionable strategy and is perhaps wasteful spending. A fixed hospital-based national emergency response system is not the answer. It can be assumed that local hospitals will quickly be overwhelmed by a catastrophic terrorist attack.
Assistance on the state and local level should focus on medical surveillance, detection, identification, and communication so that problems can be identified quickly and regional and national resources can be rushed to the scene. Meanwhile, federal programs should be exploring innovative solutions for increasing national surge capacity.15 Appropriators should support Administration efforts to shift resources from hospital-preparedness grants to more relevant national biomedical-preparedness programs.
Principle #3: Get the Biggest Bang for the Buck
Appropriators should also ensure that funding is directed toward programs that provide the greatest contribution to supporting the critical mission areas established by the homeland security strategy. Getting the "biggest bang for the buck" is a worthwhile criterion for guiding spending decisions.
No area deserves more attention than the challenge of maritime security. Estimates for enhancing support security run into the billions of dollars.16 Lobbying efforts are underway to demand dramatic increases in federal port grants--as much as $400 million per year.17 On the other hand, the Administration has proposed limiting port grants in FY 2005 to $50 million.18 The government's restraint is appropriate. The infrastructure at U.S. ports is so vast that providing resources for other than the most critical of needs may not be prudent. On the other hand, grant programs have proven far more effective when federal money has been used to encourage public-private partnerships that adopt sustainable and effective port-security programs.
To address the considerable vulnerabilities of maritime infrastructure, the greater share of federal dollars might be more effectively used by investments in effective intelligence and early warning, domestic counterterrorism, and border and transportation security programs. These could help to reduce risks by limiting the opportunities for terrorists to reach U.S. ports.
In this respect, Congress would likely find that additional investments in U.S. Coast Guard assets providing critical support for all these missions would be a far more effective and efficient use of federal maritime security appropriations. A recent RAND study, for example, found that an accelerated and expanded 10- or 15-year acquisition program could provide the service a force structure capable of performing both current and emerging missions.19 Thus, investing an additional $400 million in Coast Guard modernization would likely do far more to enhance maritime security than doling out a similar amount to ports to purchase fences and hire gate guards.
Principle #4: Watch Information Technology Spending
Appropriators need to pay particular attention to homeland security programs with significant IT components. The federal government's track record in developing IT networks is checkered at best. Programs that lack senior leader involvement, well-developed enterprise architectures, appropriate management and contractual oversight, and effective risk-mitigation strategies often find that results fail to meet expectations or that IT costs balloon out of control--crowding out funding for other critical operational needs.
The Department of Homeland Security is no exception. The DHS Inspector General has already warned that IT management represents a major challenge for the department.20 Congress must watch these efforts closely.
Homeland security initiatives include a number of ambitious IT programs such as efforts to strengthen border and transportation security like the US-VISIT (United States Visitor and Immigrant Status Indicator Technology program), CAPPS II (Computer Assisted Passenger Prescreening System), and ACE (Automated Commercial Environment). Appropriators must be confident that these programs have sound management practices in place. IT not only needs to perform as expected, but adequate provisions should also be made for security, integrating systems, and ensuring effective information sharing. Appropriators should not, for example, fund major programs unless they are sure these are consistent with the enterprise architecture developed by the Department of Homeland Security's Chief Information Officer (CIO) in September 2003. They should also insist on better staffing for the CIO's office and make its efforts to establish department-wide programs a higher priority.21
Principle #5: Fund Human Capital Programs
Human capital programs, training, professional development, and career management initiatives often receive far less attention than big-dollar acquisition programs that buy expensive, high-tech equipment. Yet human resources are often far more critical to the long-term development and success of an organization. This dynamic is particularly true for the Department of Homeland Security, which has to wed the culture and skills of over 180,000 personnel from 22 different agencies, activities, and programs into one cohesive, versatile, and effective workforce.
Improving the department's capacity to target and inspect commercial shipping containers offers a case in point. The DHS strategy is to search high-risk containers that might be used to convey terrorist threats. Success is dependent upon an effective targeting system that can identify shipping that might be exploited by a transnational terrorist group. Effective targeting relies heavily on the skill and judgment of analysts. Yet, as the General Accounting Office has found, DHS lacks a process to test or certify whether those trained in targeting courses have "the basic skills needed to provide effective targeting."22 DHS needs to do better. Appropriators must insist that proposed funding include adequate provisions for human capital initiatives that will sustain the long-term development of department programs.
Principle #6: Consider Non-Homeland Security Funding
A final concern that must be carefully addressed by Congress is ensuring that homeland security and non-homeland activities covered by the same appropriation are not placed in competition with one another. About one-third of the DHS budget, for example, funds non-homeland security related activities. Additionally, within the department's accounts, many appropriations fund both homeland security and other missions. In some cases, it is virtually impossible to differentiate personnel costs and other general expenses supporting specific activities.23 Thus, under-funding non-homeland security missions or unnecessarily burdening DHS with non-essential activities could significantly detract from the department's capacity to perform its domestic security tasks.
One area of particular concern for Congress must be the myriad activities performed by the U.S. Coast Guard--many of which use the same personnel and equipment to conduct missions ranging from port security to search-and-rescue and marine environmental protection. As the service's operational requirements continue to increase, it will face greater challenges in meeting competing demands for its personnel and assets.24
"No Earmark Zone"
Finally, the homeland security budget should remain primarily an "earmark-free zone" for the Congress. Certainly, earmarking can be appropriate for some appropriations, but matters of national security generally are not the right place for legislators to fund items of particular interest to their constituents.
The FY 2004 homeland security budget set an important precedent: Congress largely refrained from adding spending on "pet" projects. It should do no less this year. Earmarking would be appropriate only for programs of national significance that have a positive and substantive impact on critical mission areas.
Committees should set a high and exacting bar for congressional add-ons. In addition, when earmarks are thought necessary to support critical mission areas, Congress should ask DHS to rate proposed earmarks in accordance with the strategic principles outlined here in order to ensure they are both appropriate and necessary. This will serve as a useful check and balance for committees in evaluating the worth of earmark proposals.
Congressional appropriations committees should be guided by a set of strategic principles as they review the adequacy of the President's budget proposal. These principles should include:
- Placing a priority on investments that will create a true national preparedness system--not merely supplementing the needs of state and local governments;
- Developing federal capacity to respond to catastrophic terrorism;
- Getting the "biggest bang for the buck" by supporting programs that will make the most efficient and effective use of federal dollars;
- Watching IT investments closely;
- Funding critical human capital programs; and
- Balancing funding for homeland security tasks with other missions.
Additionally, Congress should refrain from any earmarks that might serve only special interests. When earmarks are necessary to support critical mission areas, Congress should ask DHS to rate proposed earmarks in accordance with the strategic principles outlined here in order to ensure they are both appropriate and necessary.
James Jay Carafano, Ph.D., is Senior Research Fellow for National Security and Homeland Security in the Kathryn and Shelby Cullom Davis Institute for International Studies at The Heritage Foundation.
1. See, for example, Congressional Budget Office, "Federal Funding for Homeland Security," Economic and Budget Issue Brief, April 30, 2004, p. 1; James Jay Carafano and Steven M. Kosiak, "Homeland Security: Administration's Plan Appears to Project Little Growth in Funding," Center for Strategic and Budgetary Assessments Backgrounder, March 12, 2003, p. 8, at www.csbaonline.org/4Publications/Archive/U.20030312.Homeland_Security_/ U.20030312.Homeland_Security_.pdf (June 3, 2004).
2. James Jay Carafano, "The Homeland Security Budget Request for FY 2005: Assessments and Proposals," Heritage Foundation Backgrounder No. 1731, March 5, 2004, at http://www.heritage.org/Research/NationalSecurity/bg1731.cfm.
3. Office of Management and Budget, "Securing the Homeland, Strengthening the Nation" (2002), p. 8. http://www.whitehouse. gov/homeland/homeland_security_book.html (June 3, 2004).
4. Amy E. Smithson and Leslie-Anne Levy, "Ataxia: The Chemical and Biological Terrorism Threat and the U.S. Response," The Stimson Center Report No. 34, October 2000, p. 113.
5. Critical mission areas represent essential tasks that must be performed to protect the nation from terrorist threats. The National Strategy for Homeland Security, issued by the Bush Administration in July 2002, identified six critical mission areas. White House, National Strategy for Homeland Security, July 2002, pp. 15-46, at http://www.whitehouse.gov/homeland/book/ (June 3, 2004).
6. Office of Management and Budget, Budget of the United States Government, Fiscal Year 2005: Analytical Perspectives (2004), p. 27, at http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/budget/fy2005/ (June 3, 2004). OMB projections are a matter of judgment. Many appropriations that fund homeland security also support other operations. Accounting practices are not always able to clearly distinguish homeland security costs from other spending when appropriations generally only distinguish items like salaries and general expenses. Nevertheless, OMB's analysis offers the best available data and a credible guide to the levels and distribution of current spending on domestic security. Congressional Budget Office, "Federal Funding for Homeland Security," p. 3.
7. Safeguarding the homeland includes aggressive counterterrorism operations (such as military, intelligence, and law enforcement activities) overseas and recognizing that the best way to deal with transnational terrorists is to stop them before they plan, prepare, and launch their attacks. OMB projections for homeland security spending in FY 2005 do not include spending on counterterrorism operations overseas or the security of overseas military bases, embassies, or other facilities. The current level of overall spending on domestic and overseas counterterrorism activities is unclear. OMB reported that for FY 2003 total funding on counterterrorism was about $54.9 billion. Office of Management and Budget, "2003 Report to Congress on Combating Terrorism," September 2003, p. 9, at http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/inforeg/2003_combat_terr.pdf (June 3, 2004). This estimate included funding for homeland security and counterterrorism operations overseas. Subsequently, OMB estimated homeland security funding at $42.5 billion. This would make overseas counterterrorism operations for FY 2003 at about $12.4 billion. OMB did not account for all the costs of the global war on terrorism in these estimates: Not included, for example, was the cost of all major military and intelligence operations in Afghanistan and Iraq.
9. For example, a study by a task force for the Council on Foreign Relations determined that effectively meeting all of the nation's emergency response needs could total over $98.4 billion. However, the report underestimated costs because the task force was unable to obtain reliable data on the additional requirements of state and local law enforcement agencies. In addition, the council report examined only one (disaster preparedness and response) of the six critical functions established by The National Strategy for Homeland Security. See Council on Foreign Relations, Emergency Responders: Dangerously Underfunded, Drastically Unprepared: Report of an Independent Task Force Sponsored by the Council on Foreign Relations, 2003.
10. From FY 2001 to the Administration's FY 2005 budget request, over $14 billion in grants will be made available. According the Department of Homeland Security Inspector General, as of February 10, 2004, most of the grants allocated in FY 2002 and FY 2003 had not been drawn down. Office of the Inspector General, Department of Homeland Security, "Review of the Status of Department of Homeland Security Efforts to Address its Major Management Challenges," OIG-04-21, March 2004, p. 10. Due to lack of national standards, clear prioritization, and performance measures, much of the funds that have been spent have been used inefficiently. James Jay Carafano, "Homeland Security Dollars and Sense #1: Current Spending Formulas Waste Aid to States" Heritage Foundation Web Memo No. 508, May 28, 2004, at http://www.heritage.org/Research/HomelandDefense/wm508.cfm.
11. Advisory Panel to Assess Domestic Response Capabilities for Terrorism Involving Weapons of Mass Destruction, Vol. V: Forging America's New Normalcy: Securing Our Homeland, Protecting Our Liberty, December 15, 2003, p. iv, at http://www.rand.org/nsrd/terrpanel (June 3, 2004).
12. Testimony of Frank
Libutti, Under Secretary, Information Analysis and Infrastructure
Protection, Department of Homeland Security before the Senate
Appropriations Committee, Homeland Security Subcommittee, March 4,
2004, at http://
appropriations.senate.gov/hearmarkups/record.cfm?id=218572 (June 3, 2004).
13. In FY 2003, for example, Congress appropriated over $700 million for Assistance to Firefighter Grant programs: They overwhelmingly benefited small, rural, volunteer fire departments. Tim Ransdell, "Federal Formula Grants and California; Homeland Security," Public Policy Institute of California, January 2004.
14. See, for example, Ashton Carter, John Deutch, and Philip Zelikow, "Catastrophic Terrorism: Tackling the New Danger," Foreign Affairs, November/December 1998, pp. 80-94.
15. James Jay Carafano, "Improving Federal Response to Catastrophic Bioterrorist Attacks: The Next Steps," Heritage Foundation Backgrounder No. 1705, November 13, 2003, at http://www.heritage.org/Research/HomelandDefense/BG1705.cfm.
16. James Jay Carafano, "Budgets and Threats: An Analysis of Strategic Priorities for Maritime Security," Heritage Foundation Lecture No. 791, June 16, 2003, at http://www.heritage.org/Research/HomelandDefense/HL791.cfm.
17. See American Association of Port Authorities Press Release, "Port Security Council Formed to Address Security Funding Issues," May 18, 2004, at http://www.aapa-ports.org/pressroom/may1804.htm (June 3, 2004).
18. Office of Management and Budget, Budget of the United States Government, Fiscal Year 2005: Analytical Perspectives, p. 29.
19. John Birkler, et al., The U.S. Coast Guard's Deepwater Force Modernization Plan: Can it be Accelerated? Will it Meet Changing Security Needs, (Santa Monica, Cal.: RAND, 2004), p. 98. As a recent General Accounting Office report makes clear, however, the Coast Guard does need to improve management of its major acquisition program. See General Accounting Office, Contract Management: Coast Guard's Deepwater Program Needs Increased Attention to Management and Contractor Oversight, GAO-04-380, March 9, 2004.
20. Office of the Inspector General, Department of Homeland Security, "Review of the Status of Department of Homeland Security Efforts to Address its Major Management Challenges," p. 18.
21. General Accounting Office, Information Technology: Homeland Security Should Better Balance Need for System Integration Strategy with Spending for New and Enhanced Systems, GAO-04-509, May 21, 2004, p. 2.
22. General Accounting Office, Homeland Security: Preliminary Observations on Efforts to Target Security Inspections of Cargo Containers, GAO-04-325T, December 16, 2003, p. 2.


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A Blackpool mum has clashed with education bosses over where her son should go to school.
Katie Smith took 12-year-old Jed out of mainstream education six months ago and is demanding he be moved to a special school.
She alleges her son has multiple learning and emotional problems, including cerebral palsy, benign tumours in his knee, ADHD and slight brain damage caused during pregnancy.
Mrs Smith – a 31-year-old mum-of-three – took the controversial decision in October to withdraw Jed from St George's High School in Marton claiming he was struggling to keep up with other children.
She is now taking Blackpool Council to a tribunal, accusing the authority of failing to educate her son according to his needs.
She said: "(At this stage) Jed doesn't process things like a normal 12-year-old should and there's no help for him at school. They're just setting him up to fail."
Jed, who initially went to Stanley Primary School, spent two weeks at the Speedwell Centre, a pupil referral unit on Whitegate Drive, after his mum pulled him out of school.
He now spends his days at home in Handley Road, Blackpool, where Mrs Smith tutors him while juggling her role as mother to Shaunna, six, and five-year-old Tommy.
She wants Blackpool Council to allow Jed to attend a special school, or allow him to be statemented – a process formally recognising he has special learning requirements – at a mainstream school.
Mrs Smith has turned to Blackpool MP Gordon Marsden for help.
He said: "Mrs Smith understandably has concerns about Jed and the problems he has with his educational provision. That is why I have written to Blackpool Council asking for a full response to her current concerns.
"There needs to be proper co-ordination between various agencies to get Jed back into learning and personal support as soon as possible."
The tribunal is scheduled to take place in July.
Mrs Smith added: "This is about justice for Jed. Anybody else would have been fined for having their child out of school for this long but I just want what's best for my child.
"Jed wants to be in school, but it has to be a comfortable environment for him to be able to cope."
Coun Sarah Riding, cabinet member for children and schools, said: "It would not be appropriate to comment ahead of the tribunal."
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Some staggering figures are coming out after the Demonetization. It is said that between November 15 and December 25, 2016, 2.10 crore bank accounts were created and over Rs 3 lakh crore was deposited in them. In the total amount, 50000 Crore was cash deposit and 3 Lakh Crore was non-cash deposit.
These accounts are used for the conversion of the old legal tender. Government sources say that a huge proportion of extinguished cash has come back into the system is not a sign of failure but a testament to the policy's success in formalizing the economy.
Incidentally, in the last 2 years, Modi government with its financial inclusion scheme, Jan Dhan, could only manage to open 20 Crore Bank Accounts but with no extra effort, we have seen around three crore new bank accounts getting opened in a month.


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Last year I wanted to address the horrors of Sept. 11, but I didn't know how or what to say. This was a subject I had no experience with, and there weren't any children's books available.
Like you, I've spent the past year thinking about Sept. 11 and subsequent events, thinking hard and searching for answers. I don't know much about terrorism, nor do I know a formula on how to correct the madness of the world. I'm resolved, however, to devote this month of September to these issues the best I can.
My foremost concern is always on children and how we can best serve their needs. If we are having difficulty understanding Sept. 11 and the events surrounding it, what must children be thinking? Since we are the ones that children turn to for guidance and nurturing, we must make every effort to broaden our own understanding to help guide them. I have come upon a book for older children (14 and older) and adults that helped me focus on the troubles we face, and I'd highly recommend it to you.
The book: "Tikvah" with the subtitle, "Children's Book Creators Reflect On Human Rights." Published by SeaStar Books (2001, $19.95 hardcover, $12.95 paperback), this book was originally published in 1999 by the University of Connecticut as a private limited edition. Fortunately, it is now available to the public.
Forty-three of America's most distinguished children's book creators share their reflections on human rights through words and pictures. You may not agree with every thought presented in the book; that doesn't matter. The fact is, the book is of immense value in content, and provides considerable food for thought for adults and as a platform for teaching children.
The title, "Tikvah," is the Hebrew word for hope, and we are in sore need of that and of human rights. I'd implore you to read it, as well as the books reviewed today. If we educate ourselves, we are better able to teach our children so that perhaps one day, we will live in a peaceful world.
Books to Borrow
The following book is available at many public libraries.
"For Every Child: the rights of the child in words and pictures" text adapted by Caroline Castle, illustrated in color by various artists, published in association with UNICEF by Phyllis Fogelman Books, 40 pages
Read aloud: age 3 - 4 and older.
Read yourself: age 7 - 8 and older.
In November 1989, the United Nations formally adopted 54 principles that make up the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. In this extraordinary book, 14 of these rights are retold in a way that everyone, including children and adults, can easily understand. Each right is complemented with an illustration by some of the leading artists in children's literature.
Some of these rights include: "Understand that all children are precious ... always do your best for us whenever we are in your care."
"Teach us all to read and write and teach us well so we grow up to be the best we can at whatever we wish to do." "No one on Earth has the right to hurt us, not even our moms and dads. Protect us always from anyone who would be cruel."
Perhaps one of the most important books I will ever read, this selection is outstanding.
Books to Buy
The following books are available at your favorite bookstore.
"Fireboat: The Heroic Adventures of the John J. Harvey" written and illustrated in color by Maria Kalman; G. P. Putnam's Sons, 2002, 42 pages, $16.99 hardcover.
Read aloud: age 4 - 5 and older.
Read yourself: age 8 and older.
There were a lot of heroes on Sept. 11 and the days that followed, but one you might not know about is the John J. Harvey fireboat and its crew.
The John J. Harvey fireboat was launched in New York City's harbor in 1931.
By 1995, the city didn't need old fireboats anymore, so the Harvey was retired. Knowing the boat's history and years of service to NYC, a group of friends decided to buy the Harvey, repair her, and use her for fun. And they did. But when the planes hit the World Trade Center Towers and the fire hydrants and water pipes were broken and buried, the fire department placed an emergency call to the John J. Harvey and crew. "WE NEED YOU!" For four days and nights, the Harvey and her crew fought the fires until they were under control.
Sensitively written and illustrated, this remarkable and inspiring true story of heroes and people working together is a "must-read."
"On That Day: A Book of Hope for Children" written and illustrated by Andrea Patel, Tricycle Press, 2002, 16 pages, $12.95 hardcover.
Read aloud: age 3- 4 and older.
Read yourself: age 7 and older.
"Sometimes bad things happen ... (but) goodness is in the world, and it's stronger than badness. There will always be good things in the world. You are one of those good things."
Through spare, simple text and thoughtful illustrations, this selection provides young readers with gentle ideas of what each can do to make the world right sharing, playing and laughing, taking care of the Earth, and being kind to people.
Just as the subtitle states, this book truly is "a book of hope for children."
KENDAL RAUTZHAN writes and lectures on children's literature. She can be reached via email: firstname.lastname@example.com
Librarian's Choice
Library: Groves Branch of the Lubbock City-County Library, 5520 19th St., Lubbock
Library Director: Jeff Rippel
Branch manager: James Berry
Children's Librarian: Phyllis Menedez
Choices this week: "Exactly the Opposite" by Tana Hoban; "Red Leaf, Yellow Leaf" by Lois Ehlert; "Snowy Day" by Ezra Jack Keats
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