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UNF Art and Design Associate Professor Nofa Dixon and her small Special Topic, Mosaic Project class spent the spring semester assembling a new mosaic installed on campus this summer.
"The initial concept for this project was that we would embellish the concrete around campus a little bit," Dixon said. "I had originally created mosaics on four columns that were 24 feet high around Alumni Square. I was asked to do more around campus by President (John) Delaney. But after much research, we thought it would be more challenging and more creative to create three wall murals instead."
And that is exactly what Dixon — who has been teaching here since 1994 — and her students are in the process of doing. This first wall, depicting an osprey nest with three eggs, was designed and created during the winter semester at Dixon's home studio. There was no studio space on campus large enough or that contained enough storage to house the several hundred tile project between sessions. Dixon and the seven students met each Tuesday and Thursday morning for several hours to paint, glaze, fire and cut the individual tiles needed to construct the large mosaic designed especially for the wall on Building 8.
The other two mosaics will feature an adult osprey constructing the nest and one in which the osprey chicks are preparing to fly. Both will be designed for the spaces they will inhabit.
Presidential History Professor David Courtwright said he encouraged Dixon to pursue the wall project. "I knew Nofa to be a gifted artist, I admired her work and I serve with her on the Campus Art Committee," he said. "I encouraged her to explore the possiblility of using some of the blank concrete spaces on campus as settings for her art. Nofa's first response was to transform the four columns in the courtyard, using a seasonal theme. I (and everyone else I know) thought the courtyard columns were a tremendous success. I encouraged Nofa to do more work. She came up with the 'nest' idea as her second project and it looks splendid."
The project had to be approved by the Campus Art Committee and the President's Office. Dixon has been working with Campus Planner Zak Ovaidia to find the perfect locations for the three murals.
"We have been all over campus to look for a place with enough wall space," Dixon said. "The second mural will be install on Building 2, upstairs. We are still considering options for the final space."
The students who worked on the project — Silvia de Araujo, Jonathan Byxbe, Christina Hampton, Christopher Hicks, Allison Phelps, Nicole Silver, Thomas Stillwell and Amber Williams — were handpicked by Dixon for their work ethic and dedication to the art itself. Not all are art majors, either. They come from across the disciplines including teaching, engineering and psychology.
The diverse group worked through the semester on sections of the mural, often laying them out on her driveway and photographing them through an upstairs window to see the effect being created.
Each tile had to be numbered and cataloged and checked in and out of a complex system so that it would fit correctly in the final product.
"We painted and fired each piece up to 10 times each and we had to know how it fit into the puzzle when it came out of the kiln," Dixon said.
Dixon said the project means a great deal to her because it brings arts to the campus community.
"I often think that art programs are sometimes isolated from others parts of the University system," she said. "I used to teach in the school system a long time ago and I have memories of other teachers walking past my classroom, straining their necks to see what was going on inside my room and doing anything they could to avoid actually entering the room itself. So I really like to have art where the people are and to take art to them rather than to expect them to come into our spaces."
She also said she gets caught up in the students' passion for the project itself. "Even though this mosaic class does not fit the definition of a transformational learning opportunity (TLO), each of these classes do become transformational for the students," she said. "The students start to come out of their shells. They become a part of the family and they bond. They take ownership of the project and when they come back to campus in 10 years, part of them is still there."
The University of North Florida Model United Nations team took first place among more than 200 teams from universities all around the world at the Model United Nations Conference that took place recently in New York City.
UNF's 12-person team represented the country of Honduras and was one of only 17 teams to receive the Outstanding Delegation award, which is the first-place honor. This was the team's second time ever participating in the national conference, and the UNF team, consisting of 30 total members, has only been in existence for two years.
"I am so proud of our team of students and of their coach/adviser Laura Ache. The students receive no academic credit for all of their hard work, as many students from other universities receive, yet they earned the highest designation — Outstanding Delegation — given to fewer than the top 10 percent of teams," said Dr. Mary Borg, director of the UNF Honors Program.
"It is a huge deal that they took first place," said Ache. "I think that if you look at the model UN teams that compete from the really large schools — schools that are in the Ivy League — that have been doing this for a really long time and have dedicated classes and faculty for Model UN and this is only our second year. And the students here do it all themselves. I am just here to make sure that administratively the students have what they need. Other than that, they do it all themselves. I just couldn't be more proud of them."
The UNF winning team is comprised of sophomores Logan Buzzell, Elizabeth Miller and Philip Sabado from Jacksonville and Andres Tortolero from Venezuela; juniors Alexa Jenkins, Sarasota; Paige Lehman, Jacksonville; and David Murphy, Tallahassee; seniors Jose Barrientos, Colombia; Shanna Beech, Satelilite Beach; Eulamae Mombay, Jacksonville; Amanda Moreira-Cali, Gainesville; and international exchange student Yolanda Perez Lacarcel, Spain.
Some of the other universities the UNF Model UN team competed against include Brigham Young University, Stanford University, Syracuse University, College of Europe, Erasmus University Rotterdam, California State University, American University in Cairo and Florida Atlantic University, to name a few.
Ache said one of the reasons the UNF team did so well was because the students come from a variety of disciplines and backgrounds. The UNF students are able to use their academic diversity to their advantage because they are able to discuss policy as it impacts real lives, and not just debate policy for policy's sake.
"It really helps when you have a degree from the health professions and are sitting on a committee to debate public health," Ache said. "You are then talking about public health from a basis of knowledge, not theory."
The National Model United Nations has established a number of criteria for evaluating delegation performance across all assigned committees. Each element — remaining in character, participating in committee and proper use of the rules of procedure — is equally important to the overall awards determination process. For delegations awards NMUN staff in each committee selects outstanding participants for each session.
The National Model United Nations competition is designed to allow students from various universities throughout the national and international community to represent countries that are current members in the acting United Nations. Each participating school is assigned a country and argues for resolutions based on their country's point of view. Students write position papers, stating their country's position on the issues chosen by the head of the conference and send them before the competition begins.
Once at the competition, students are assigned in groups of two to committees such as Security Council, Council on Women's Issues, etc. They work with other countries and create resolutions that are voted on by the committee at large. Delegations (the team) are to stay in character the entire time, so they must work with countries and toward resolutions that are only what their assigned country would work toward, so teams must be prepare ahead of time. On the last day, student teams enter their resolutions into the pool to be voted on by all participating schools (countries) and lobby to get their resolutions passed.
"They have to write papers and do a significant amount of research," Ache said. "They have to be ready for just about anything and they are. The teams are assigned a country and then have to represent the topics as that country. They have to be incredibly well-versed going into the competition."
Tune your radio in to a jazz music station and you just might hear UNF Jazz Piano Assistant Professor Lynne Arriale playing.
Long-acclaimed as being one of the top jazz pianists of her generation, Arriale went in a different direction with her latest effort, Convergence. For many years, she worked exclusively in a trio format but has recently begun exploring the quartet format. The exploration has led to great success and a No. 1 hit on the Jazz Radio Chart and No. 17 on the Billboard Chart.
Her current offering brings together the talents of bassist Omer Avital, drummer Anthony Pincottie and trumpeter Randy Brecker.
Arriale has been sharing her unique style all over the world since winning the 1993 Great American Piano Competition. A "100 Golden Fingers Tour" of Japan soon followed with jazz giants Hank Jones, Tommy Flanagan, Kenny Barron, Cedar Walton, Ray Bryant, Junior Mance, Harold Mabern, Roger Kellaway and Monty Alexander. She also collaborated with jazz icons Benny Golson, Rufus Reid and, more recently, George Mraz.
She's performed at The Spoleto Festival, The Gilmore Piano Festival, JALC's Dizzy's Club Coca-Cola, Kansas City's Folly Theater, several Women in Jazz Festivals at The Kennedy Center and many international jazz festivals.
In addition to her role on the Jazz Studies faculty at UNF, she is also Director of Small Ensembles and teaches privately and conducts master classes, clinics and workshops internationally.
While corporate donors and business groups are important in providing scholarships and fellowships at UNF, these organizations also play a vital role each year in sponsoring various competitions on campus.
It's especially appropriate to recognize the roles these groups play at UNF because The Power of Transformation campaign is built on the commitment to offer transformational learning opportunities to students.
Dozens of such partnerships exist at UNF but two of these competitions in particular offer a glimpse into the benefits students obtain while participating in activities made possible by corporate and professional organizations.
The IANA Logistics & Supply Chain Management Case Competition was made possible by a three-year $25,000 grant from the Intermodal Association of North America, a professional organization of logistics companies. But the contributions did not stop there. During this year's competition, the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals Jacksonville Roundtable sponsored the banquet while the Jacksonville Port Authority sponsored a tour of JAXPORT.
Similarly, the Big Concrete Beam Design Competition is sponsored by the Prestressed/Precast Concrete Institute with Gate Precast Company in Jacksonville providing support for the UNF student team.
Kyle Groothuis, a senior from Chattanooga, Tenn., was the team captain in the third annual IANA Logistics & Supply Chain Management Case Competition sponsored by the Coggin College of Business in April. "It was an unbelievable experience to take what we've learned in the classroom and apply it to a real-world problem," said Groothuis, a two-year veteran of the competition.
Thirty-two students and 18 faculty members from eight universities analyzed a business case study that addressed supply chain issues facing Zappos.com, a leading online retailer of shoes and apparel. Teams of four students each had an opportunity to make a presentation and were then questioned by judges from some of the top logistics companies in America.
"We had judges who were basically in the executive level of their companies and we had to sell our ideas to them," Groothuis said. "It was a great opportunity not only to learn presentation skills and build self-confidence, but also to network with other students who may someday be our colleagues in logistics businesses elsewhere."
In addition to the competition, an executive coach, who provided students with pointers body language and presentation techniques, also observed the students who participated. Groothuis said that feedback from the coach was particularly beneficial. "This was so helpful if you have a nervous habit, for example, that may detract from your message," he said.
Matthew Graeff has been involved in the Big Concrete Beam Competition for two years. "The competition gives us an opportunity to design a beam to real-life specifications that you would have on the job," he said. "The team-building experience is a strong component of the competition. We do a lot of exercises that bring us together. By the time we actually get to the contest, we have become a very strong team."
Gate Precast fabricated the team's 4,000-pound beam and then shipped it to UNF's concrete testing lab in the Science and Engineering Building. It is there that each beam is examined to determine which most closely matches the specification and then is subjected to a series of stress tests to determine a winner. This year's UNF team came in second in Florida.
Dr. Adel El-Safty, a professor in the College of Computing, Engineering and Construction and the faculty adviser for the Big Beam Competition, estimated the cost of the donated materials provided by Gate is in excess of $7,000. But the corporate partnership also involves tours of the Jacksonville plant so students can watch the beam fabrication.
"Gate Precast has been a wonderful partner for UNF not only in the big beam competition but especially in their role in the Prestressed/Precast Concrete Institute (PCI)," he said.
A national grant from the PCI Foundation of $125,000 over five years to establish a concrete design studio at UNF is another indication of how a public-private partnership can benefit students, he explained. "The studio gives our students hands-on experience that would not be realized without the support of sponsors."
But El-Safty said one of the biggest benefits for students in these competitions is the incentive they provide. "Our students put a great deal of effort in studying and working in the lab preparing for the competition. They are in the lab every night for three or four months. We have never achieved that kind of commitment through teaching alone. We are thankful for these types of partnerships to motivate our students."
The benefits of the corporate sponsorships go beyond the winning or losing for students.
Lynn Brown, associate director of the Transportation & Logistics Flagship program in the Coggin College of Business, has planned the competition since its inception. In 2008, the competition started with three universities and now had extended to eight universities.
"It has raised the visibility of the UNF Logistics Program across the country and given us a very high profile among some of the most preeminent universities in this field," she said. "This in turn makes a UNF degree more valuable since logistics companies are now familiar with the program."
As for the donors, the motivation is part philanthropic and part good business.
Tom Newton, vice president of operations for Gate Precast-Jacksonville, described a symbiotic relationship with UNF.
"These students will be out in the market place someday and will eventually be making decisions about construction types. We want them to be familiar with pre-stressed products," he said. "If we can help students with a real-world experience while in college, all the better."
Those sentiments were echoed by Val Noel, president of Pacer Cartage in Jacksonville and one of the board members of IANA, sponsors of the logistics competition.
"We need fresh, smart minds that have the ability to think outside the box and develop long-term applications and processes to improve the overall transportation landscape," he said.
He said that it was refreshing to witness the students involved in the competition. "The enthusiasm and the high energy of the students were evident. I know the education they are receiving at UNF will be invaluable as they move into the real world."
Grow your child's creativity with a
memorable summer experience at The Museum of Contemporary Art
Jacksonville, a cultural resource of UNF.
museum has opened enrollment to University employees with children
between the ages of 4 and 17 for artcamp@MOCA, a series of week-long,
half- or full-day sessions of creating art. Sessions start June 13, run
from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, with a break during
Independence Day week, and conclude Aug. 19. To make pick-ups and
drop-offs easier, an extended-day rate is available, giving parents an
extra hour before camp starts and after it ends. And, the best part is
UNF employees qualify for a special 35 percent savings off non-member
enrollment rates and 50 percent off the extended-day rate. The
extended-day rate for UNF employees is $25 a week."With fun
classes for different age groups, the ability to enroll week-to-week,
and [utilize] extended-day pick-up and drop-off, artcamp@MOCA offers a
tremendously flexible schedule to accommodate working parents at UNF and
an enriching opportunity for their kids," said Allison Galloway, MOCA's
membership and public programs manager. During artcamp@MOCA,
museum educators and certified local art educators provide quality
instruction in a wide variety of subjects and media, including various
art-making activities, exploration of art history, tours of the museum's
collection, literacy and creative movement. Space is limited. The sessions and special rates for UNF are as follows:Ages 4-6
Monday through FridayHalf-day program: 9 a.m. to noon$64 a week for UNF employeesWeek 1: Dino-rama!Week 2: Under the SeaWeek 3: Be a Super HeroNo Classes July 4–8
Week 4: Fun across the GalaxyWeek 5: Fairy Tales, Folk Tales and FablesWeek 6: Make Your Own Perfect Pets!Week 7: Operation-EarthWeek 8: Arrrrt for PiratesWeek 9: Wild Wild WestAges 7-11Monday through FridayHalf-day program: 9 a.m. to noon or 1 to 4 p.m.$77 a week for UNF employeesAll-day program: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.$129 a week for UNF employeesWeek 1: Art FUNdamentalsWeek 2: Party in the USAWeek 3: Fun with FriendsNo Classes July 4–8
Week 4: Time TravelersWeek 5: Go GreenWeek 6: This is Me!Week 7: From Newman to NowWeek 8: Myth and LegendsWeek 9: Highlights WeekAges 12-17
Monday through FridayHalf-day program: 9 a.m. to noon$84 a week for UNF employeesAll-day program: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.$136 a week for UNF employeesWeek 1: DrawingWeek 2: PaintingWeek 3: Mixed MediaNo Classes July 4–8
Week 4: PhotographyWeek 5: CeramicsWeek 6: Printmaking PlusWeek 7: MosaicsWeek 8: IllustrationWeek 9: Portfolio
Department: Economics and GeographyJob title: Associate Professor of Economics and Co-director of the International Business Program Years at UNF: 7-3/4
What do you do at UNF?
I teach, do research and work in building relationships with foreign universities (and many other things).What is the best thing you ever won?
won a tricycle race two years in a row in my hometown, Nueve de Julio,
when I was 2 years old. I was a strong kid and I was the only one using a
helmet, which improved the aerodynamics. I have the pictures to prove
Tell us something that would surprise people to know about you:
love playing soccer. I grew up playing soccer and I think I played
soccer almost every day I could since I was 6 years old until I went to
college, where I did not have much time to play so often. I played in a
semi-pro Club called El Fortín in my hometown, but the best moments
playing soccer were pick-up games with friends. At least for me, there
is always a great joy and happiness to play soccer in an open space and
share time with friends. I love to play until it is dark and you cannot
see your own feet.Tell us about your family.
have been married to Marina for 16 years. We have two boys, Francisco,
12 and José, 9. Then I have my parents, Alberto and Amanda, and my
father-in-law, Juan Carlos. I have a brother, Daniel, 38, who is married
to Amancay and they have three children: Pedro, 13; Adolfina, 6; and Timoteo, 5. I also have a sister, Veronica, who is married to Julio and they have four kids: Florencia, 15; Martina, 7; Francisco, 3; and Josephina, 9 months. My two uncles, Abel and Carlos, are married to Azuncena and Maria Antonia respectively. I also have five cousins — Carla, Alejandra, Ariel, José Luis and Maria Laura — and their many children. I have many more members in my extended family whom I love but am not going to name here. I love my family, especially
when we are all together sharing lunch and talking.
What is the proudest/happiest moment of your life?
Getting married and having our two boys. It's a three-way tie.
What person had the greatest impact on your life?
two grandfathers: Antonio and Hector. Since I was 6, they talked to me
about politics, economics and life in general. I enjoyed spending time
with them talking and learning. Even though they have opposite political
views, they showed a respect and appreciation for each other that I
have never seen again. With their example they taught me the value of
hard work and education in one's life, and I always have carried their
teachings with me. What are you most passionate about?
My family
Who is the most famous person you ever met?
Duhalde, before he became president of Argentina. Rafael Correa, the
current president of Ecuador, was my classmate and friend during our
doctoral program at the University of Illinois.
If you won the lottery, what would do with the money?
with my family, help them financially and set up ways to help people in
need. Maybe I will move to Nueve de Julio and have a house with a
backyard where I can have a vegetable garden and some animals. I will
keep teaching college students. What is your favorite thing about working at UNF?
Our students If you were not working at UNF, what would you be doing?
Working at another university If you could choose any other career, what would it be and why? Being a writer. Like Thomas Jefferson, I cannot live without books.
What is your favorite way to blow an hour?
Drink mate (a kind of tea from Argentina) with my wife and talk.
What was the first concert you ever attended, and what was the most recent concert you attended?
do not remember my first concert — although I will not lie if I choose
any given place I used to go with my parents where some local band or
singer was playing. My last concert was José's concert with the
Jacksonville Children's Chorus, in early April.
Tell us something about you that even your friends don't know:
I like dogs, but I've never had one. What do you hope to accomplish that you have not done yet?
I do not have any specific goals. I like to be available for opportunities that are worth pursuing. What's the last book you read?
now I am reading "The Good Husband of Zebra Drive," the eighth book of
the series "The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency," by Alexander McCall
Smith. It is a great series about everyday life and people in Botswana,
From professional athletes to weekend warriors to those training for the annual Gate River Run, the condition known as runner's knee is a painful and potentially debilitating injury suffered by millions of people. Dr. Michelle Boling, assistant professor in the Department of Clinical and Applied Movement Sciences, discusses this condition.
What is runner's knee?
Runner's knee is a common chronic (develops over a period of time) condition in which people complain of pain behind or around their kneecap during physical activity. This condition commonly develops in an individual's adolescent years, but is also prevalent among physically active adults. Other common names for runner's knee include patellofemoral pain syndrome or lateral patella tracking syndrome.
How can I prevent runner's knee?
Runner's knee is thought to develop due to muscle imbalances (tight and weak muscles) and altered movement patterns in the lower extremity. Stretching the quadriceps (front of thigh), hamstrings (back of thigh) and calf musculature should be performed prior to and after physical activity. Also, when bending at the knees or squatting, individuals should make sure their knees do not move in front of their toes and that their knee stays centered over their foot (knees should not collapse together).
If I already have runner's knee, are there exercises that I should perform?
The cause of runner's knee may differ from individual to individual; therefore, treatment is not always the same. However, exercises that are commonly prescribed by clinicians include stretching and strengthening of the hip and thigh musculature. Exercises that are commonly prescribed include straight leg raises into hip abduction (lying on your side with legs straight, raise top leg away from body), wall squats (stand with back against a wall with feet 12 inches away from wall, squat down) and lunges. All stretches and exercises should be performed in a pain-free manner. If you can't perform a lunge exercise due to pain, try to perform it without bending your knees as much. If you still have pain, then choose an alternate exercise. Also, when performing squats or lunges, make sure your knees stay centered over your feet.
Can foot orthotics be helpful for individuals with runner's knee?
Foot orthotics (shoe inserts that help support the arches of the foot) may help individuals with runner's knee if the individual pronates (arch flattens) excessively when walking or running. If an individual doesn't have altered foot mechanics (increased pronation), foot orthotics will most likely not help to decrease the symptoms of runner's knee.
"Ask UNF" is a monthly column that runs in The Florida Times-Union, promoting the expertise of UNF faculty and staff.If you have questions about this topic, contact Boling at email@example.com.
Brooks College of Health
Department of Public Health: Dr. Erin Largo-Wight published "Healthy Workplaces: The Role of Nature Contact Office Exposures on Employee Stress and Health" with W. Chen, V. Dodd and R. Weiler in Public Health Reports, Vol.126, Supplement 1; "Improving Health through Stress Reduction: An Experiential Activity" with E. Barr and M. Moore in the Journal of Health Education Teaching, Vol. 2, No. 1; and "Cultivating Healthy Places and Communities: Evidenced-based Nature Contact Recommendations" in the International Journal of Environmental Health Research, Vol. 21, No. 1. She also presented "The Feasibility and Practicality of an Environmental Intervention for Stress Reduction at Work: The Environmental Booster Break" with E. Cuvelier, W.W. Chen and M.M. Howard at American Academy of Health Behavior in March at Hilton Head, S.C.
College of Arts and Sciences
Chemistry: Dr. Mike Lufaso has been selected to be recognized as one of two faculty at UNF as Oscar Munoz Presidential Professors, made possible by a generous gift from Oscar Munoz and family. Munoz is a member of the UNF Board of Trustees and CFO of the CSX Corporation. Lufaso will carry the designation of Munoz Presidential Professor for two years. Funding from the Munoz gift ($10,000 per year for each of the next two years) will allow him to further his research at UNF.
English: Dr. Michael Wiley has published "A Bad Night's Sleep," the third mystery in his award-winning Joe Kozmarski series. In a starred review of the novel, Publishers Weekly praises the "well-developed flawed hero," "relentless pacing," and "hard-edged prose."
History: Dr. Carolyn Williams received an award from the Jacksonville Historic Preservation Commission for her research, writing, teaching and promotion of local and African-American history.
Languages, Literatures and Cultures: Dr. Shira Schwam-Baird's book "Valentin et Orson," an edition and translation of a 15th-century French epic, has been published by the Arizona Center for Medieval and Renaissance Studies at Arizona State University.
Philosphy and Religion:
Mitchell Haney published "Social Media, Speed and Listening to Oneself" in Listening: Journal of Communication Ethics, Religion and Culture, Vol. 46, No. 1.
Psychology: Dr. C. Dominik Güss and student Marissa Lovvorn were among the 74 selected to present their research on risky business decision making to senators and state representatives on Capitol Hill in April. Of the 700 applicants nationwide, they were the only selected from Florida. Güss also published "Complex Problem Solving across Cultures" which was translated into Russian for Reconstruction of Subjective Reality. Together with Dietrich Dörner, he published "A Psychological Analysis of Adolf Hitler's Decision Making as Commander in Chief: Summa Confidentia et Nimius Metus" in Review of General Psychology, Vol. 15.
Dr. Michael Toglia gave an invited paper "Suggestive Influences on Memory and Lineup Identification" at the Southeastern Psychological Association meeting. He also,in collaboration with several of his graduate and undergraduate students, gave a poster presentation titled "Survivability and Remembering: What is Adaptive about Adaptive Memory?" at the Florida Statewide Student Research Symposium.
College of Computing, Engineering and Construction
Department of Construction Management: Dr. Maged Malek published his paper, "Model Development of Constructability," in Management Science and Engineering, Vol.5, No.2. At the International Association for Management of Technology Conference, Malek presented his paper, "Concrete Distress Investigation" and chaired a session on Management of Technology in Research and Education.
School of Engineering: Dr. Daniel Cox received a faculty research visit grant from Deutscher Akademischer Austausch Dienst (DAAD), the German Academic Exchange Service, to collaborate at the Cologne University of Applied Sciences in Cologne, Germany.
Dr. Chris Brown andB. Poiencot published their paper, "An Optimal Centralized Carbon Dioxide Repository for Florida, USA", in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, Vol. 8, No. 4.
Dr. Thobias Sando received a research grant of $45,232 from the Florida Department of Transportation to develop crash modification factors (CMFs) for urban four-lane roadways with raised medians.
Dr. Alexandra Schönning, John Kirkpatrick, Jonathan Neal, Lory Anne E. Reyes and Lyle C. Young presented and published their paper "Fabrication and Initial Testing of Fatigue Bone Cement Specimens," at the 17th International Conference on Industry, Engineering and Management Systems, March 28-30, 2011. Schonning also chaired the session on Industry and Academia Collaboration at the conference.
School of Computing: Dr. Ching-Hua Chuan presented her paper, "Harmonic Style-Based Song Retrieval Using N-Gram," at the International Conference on Multimedia Retrieval in mid-April.
Dean's Office: The UNF student chapter of the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers invited Dr. Jerry Merckel to speak on "Keys to Career Success." Merckel also spoke on "Adventures Before, During and After IBM" at the IBM South Florida Alumni Association Conference in late April.
College of Education and Human Service
Department of Childhood Education: Drs. Gigi Morales David and Elizabeth Fullerton presented "Social Skills: Promoting Preschool Friendships" to 140 preschool teachers at the 8th Annual Addressing Challenging Behavior: National Training Institute on Effective Practices/Supporting Young Children's Social and Emotional Development. An early childhood reporter who attended the session wrote an article about the contents of the presentation for the publication Education Daily. Morales David provided in-service training on arts-integration and visual literacy for the faculty attending Ortega Museum Magnet. Morales David was also the featured author at a Young Writer's Conference for children attending Summers Elementary School in Lake City.
Dr. Katie Monnin will participate in three panel presentations at the American Library Association conference in New Orleans in late June. The panel presentations are titled: "Comics as Children's Literature," "Graphic Novels for Reluctant Readers" and "Good Graphic Novels for Third through Fifth Grade Students." Department of Exceptional Student and Deaf Education: Dr. Sherry Shaw has been selected to be recognized as one of two faculty at UNF as Oscar Munoz Presidential Professors. This distinction is made possible by a generous gift from Oscar Munoz and family. Munoz is a member of the UNF Board of Trustees and CFO of the CSX Corporation. Shaw will carry the designation of Munoz Presidential Professor for two years. Funding from the Munoz gift ($10,000 per year for each of the next two years) will allow Shaw to further her line of research on the neuropsychological and motivational traits of spoken and signed language interpreting students. She has previously conducted this research in five European Union countries as the first step of a larger research agenda on student aptitude for learning the interpreting process through academic interpreter education programs.
Office of the Dean: Drs. Marsha Lupi and Jacqueline Batey presented "Cross Cultural Learning Opportunities for Special Education and General Education Students through International Field Experiences" at the CEC 2011 Convention and Expo in National Harbor, Md. Other College News: Dr. Lynne Raiser presented "We Can't Wait for Superman" to the Jacksonville Women's Network (JWN) in April with three Gladys Prior Award winners. The panel members responded to the question: How can you find teaching in a public school a rewarding career with the constant assaults on public schools and teachers? The responses focused on the special relationships between teachers and their students that make the career worthwhile.
Milestone anniversaries
Congratulations to the following employees who will celebrate a milestone anniversary at UNF in June:
25 years
Bettye Brown, Senior Accounts Payable Representative, Controller's Office
20 years
Nancy Boerem, Coordinator of Administrative Services, Institutional Advancement
15 years
Donna Carlson, Accounting Associate, Teaching Gymnasium
10 years
Chantel Cummings, Coordinator of Research Development, Office of Research and Sponsored Programs
Cindy Dickerson, Associate Director of Residence Program Services, Florida Institute of Education
Eva Mills, Custodial Worker, Physical Facilities
Hemendra Shah, Coordinator of Payroll, Controller's Office
Five years
Joseph Allen, Physician Assistant, Student Health Services
Karen Demaria, Executive Secretary, Major Gifts
Kimberly Diamon, Associate Director, Alumni Services
Willie Hunter, Associate Director of Student Financial Aid, Enrollment Services Processing Office
Jessica Joiner, Custodial Supervisor, Physical Facilities
Vicki Waytowich, Adjunct, Criminology and Criminal Justice
Janet Withers, Administrative Secretary, Leadership & Counseling
The following employees were hired by UNF (or promoted from OPS to permanent full-time staff) from mid-March to mid-April:
Keith Clussman, Custodial Worker, Physical Facilities
Josue Cruz, Coordinator of Student Affairs, Center for International Education
Agata Dawidowicz, Accounting Associate, Auxiliary Services Administration
Jayne De La Rosa, Child Development Teacher, Child Research and Development Center
James Laney, Groundskeeper, Physical Facilities
Claire Miller, Assistant Director, Annual Giving
Joseph Parisi, Accounting Associate, Student Government
Charmaine Peralta, Administrative Secretary, Political Science and Public Administration
Lynette Qadeer, Custodial Worker, Physical Facilities
Joseph Rodil, Accounting Associate, Student Government
Danyell Rowland, Office Assistant, The Graduate School
Heather Varian, Director, Annual Giving
Well done
The following employees were promoted from from mid-March to mid-April:
Gregory Catron, Associate Director, Employee Labor Relations
Karene Fabian, Coordinator of Accounting, Controller's Office
Miguel Gabertan, Assistant Controller, Controller's Office
Robin McCracken, Custodial Supervisor, Physical Facilities
Michael McGuire, Coordinator, Student Government
Willie McLaurin, Senior Custodial Worker, Physical Facilities
Rosana Moreira, Coordinator, Student Affairs
Wilson Navarro, Assistant Controller, Controller's Office
Stephanie Price, Senior Accountant, Controller's Office
Tiffany Winemiller, Associate Director, Major Gifts
Dr. Joseph Campbell, a professor in the School of Engineering, recently announced his retirement. During his 12-year tenure, Campbell reconstituted the electrical engineering program, led the effort to establish the civil engineering and mechanical engineering academic programs and was successful in securing accreditation for all of the programs. He was also instrumental in defining the layout and content of the new science building and establishing the foundation for the new master's programs in civil, electrical and mechanical engineering.
The avocado is a nutritious subtropical/tropical fruit which can be used in a variety of dishes. Dr. Judy Perkin, a nutrition professor, discusses myths and facts about this often misunderstood and underutilized fruit.
Myth: The avocado is a vegetable.
Fact: Botanical authorities tell us that the avocado is classified as a fruit and an alternate name for the avocado is alligator pear. Many people prepare and eat avocado thinking it is a vegetable. At least one food encyclopedia calls the avocado a fruit-vegetable.
Myth: Avocados are high in fat and should be avoided as part of a healthy diet.
Fact: Avocados do contain a significant amount of fat but food analyses indicates that most of the fat in the avocado is of the monounsaturated type, which may be beneficial for health. The Produce for a Better Health Foundation also points out that avocados contain very little saturated fat and are a good source of many important nutrients for health, such as potassium, folate and dietary fiber.
Myth: Florida avocados come in only two varieties.
Fact: According to a University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences website, there are 56 avocado varieties grown in Florida, with the first avocado tree being planted in the state in 1833. Agricultural economists tell us that California, Florida and Hawaii are the major producers of U.S. grown avocados. The United States Department of Agriculture cites Mexico and Chile as foreign countries that are important in terms of worldwide production of avocados.
Myth: Avocado oil is used only for beauty products.
Fact: Avocado oil is also sold as a food product and is available for use as a dipping or cooking oil. Sometimes it is sold with added spices. Read the label for the correct usage directions and for suggestions on how to incorporate avocado oil into your diet.
Myth: Avocados are not used in making desserts.
Fact: Although we typically think of the avocado as an ingredient for appetizers, salads or main dishes, there are recipes that feature the avocado as a dessert ingredient. A quick search of the Internet will yield many recipes for avocado ice cream, avocado pie, avocado pudding and other tasty avocado desserts. Avocado Sauce with Grilled Shrimp
Preparation time: 35 minutes
Serves: 10
5 medium avocados, peeled and seeded
½ cup cilantro, chopped
1-2 limes, juiced
1/3 teaspoon salt or to taste*
¼ teaspoon black pepper or to taste*
1 tablespoon olive oil
30 shrimp, large (size 21 x 25)
1 cup jicama, sticks
1 cup cucumber, chopped
Pinch cayenne pepper, for garnish
Cilantro, leaves for garnish
¼ teaspoon salt or to taste*
Puree avocados, chopped cilantro and the juice of 1 lime in a blender until smooth. Season with 1/3 teaspoon salt (or to taste). In a bowl, toss shrimp with the olive oil, ¼ teaspoon salt and pepper (or to taste), juice of ½ lime and grill to perfection. For presentation, serve the avocado sauce with three grilled shrimp and garnish with crispy sticks and cubes of jicama and cucumbers, sprinkled with the cayenne pepper and cilantro leaves. Serve as an appetizer or small lunch plate.
Nutrition information per serving: calories: 156, total fat: 12.2g, saturated fat: 1.7g, percentage of calories from fat: 66 percent, percentage of calories from saturated fat: 9 percent, protein: 6g, carbohydrates: 8g, cholesterol: 32mg, dietary fiber: 5g, sodium: 173mg
* Nutrition information does not include amounts to taste.
This recipe was developed by The Culinary Institute of America as an industry service for Produce for Better Health Foundation (PBH). Source: Fruits & Veggies — More Matters website,
. Used with permission of the Produce for A Better Health Foundation.
"The Goods" is a monthly column that runs in The Florida Times-Union's Taste section about food myths and facts by faculty members in UNF's Department of Nutrition and Dietetics. Have a question about avocados? Contact Perkin at


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WHAT: 54th Circle K NHRA Winternationals, first of 24 events in the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series.
WHERE: Auto Club Raceway at Fairplex in Pomona
WHEN: Thursday through Sunday, Feb. 6-9
8 a.m.- 2 p.m. – Racer Registration / Tech Inspection (all categories); 8:15 – Sportsman qualifying; 4 p.m. – Comp Eliminator qualifying.
8:15 – Sportsman eliminations; 10:30 – Comp Eliminator qualifying; 11 – Top Alcohol qualifying; 12:30 p.m. – Pro Stock qualifying; 1 – Funny Car, Top Fuel qualifying; 2 – Comp Eliminator qualifying; 2:30 – Top Alcohol qualifying; 3:30 – Pro Stock qualifying; 4 – Funny Car, Top Fuel qualifying.
8:15 a.m. – Sportsman eliminations; 10 – Top Alcohol qualifying; 11:45 – Comp Eliminator, round 1; 12:30 p.m. – Pro Stock qualifying; 1 – Top Fuel, Funny Car qualifying; 2 – Top Alcohol eliminations, round 1; 3 – Comp Eliminator, round 2; 3:30 – Pro Stock qualifying; 4 – Top Fuel, Funny Car qualifying
10 a.m. – Pre-race ceremonies; 11 – Top Fuel, Funny Car eliminations, round 1; noon – Pro Stock eliminations, round 1; 12:15 p.m. – Top Alcohol eliminations, round 2; 1 – Top Fuel, Funny Car eliminations, round 2; 1:30 – Pro Stock eliminations, round 2; 1:45 – Sportsman eliminations, semifinals; 2:25 – Top Alcohol eliminations, semifinals; 2:30 – Funny Car, Top Fuel eliminations, semifinals; 2:45 – Pro Stock eliminations, semifinals; 3:25 – Sportsman eliminations, finals; 3:40 –
Top Alcohol eliminations, finals; 3:40 – Pro Stock, finals; 3:45 – Funny Car, Top Fuel finals.
Saturday – 8 p.m., ESPN2 and ESPN2HD, two hours of qualifying coverage
Sunday – 5 p.m., ESPN2 and ESPN2HD, three hours of eliminations coverage
2013 Winners
Top Fuel dragster: Shawn Langdon; Funny Car: Courtney Force,; Pro Stock: Vincent Nobile
Most wins: 7 – Bob Glidden, Pro Stock; 6 – John Force, Funny Car; 5 – Greg Anderson, Pro Stock, Warren Johnson, Pro Stock; Don Prudhomme, Top Fuel/Funny Car; Don Garlits. Top Fuel; 4 – Larry Dixon, Top Fuel
S- 5; Warren Johnson, PS – 5; Don Garlits, TF- 5;
Records – Top Fuel – 3.721 seconds by Shawn Langdon, Feb. '13; 328.70 mph by Doug Kalitta, Nov. '13; Funny Car – Funny Car – 3.995 seconds by John Force, Nov. '13; 320.66 mph by Matt Hagan, Nov. '13; Pro Stock – 6.495 seconds by Jason Line, Nov. '12; 213.13 mph by Line, Nov. '12
Top Fuel – 3.701 sec. by Antron Brown, Oct. '12, Reading, Pa.; 332.18 mph by Spencer Massey, April '12, Charlotte, N.C.; Funny Car – 3.986 sec. by Jack Beckman, Oct. '12, Reading, Pa.; 320.66 mph by Matt Hagan, Nov. '13, Pomona; Pro Stock – 6.471 sec. by Mike Edwards, April '13, Charlotte, N.C.; 214.35 mph by Line, Oct. '12, Reading, Pa.
(800) 884-NHRA (6472); www.NHRATIX.com
There will be at least two new faces on the circuit this year, replacing a pair of veterans who decided not to compete on a full-time basis in 2014.
In Top Fuel, Richie Crampton, a native of Adelaide, South Australia, will step in for Morgan Lucas in the Geico/Lucas Oil dragster for Morgan Lucas Racing. Lucas opted to step away and concentrate on his family's business.
Crampton earned his Top Fuel license in August but got his first experience in the 8,000 horsepower dragster during winter testing.
"Testing in South Florida was a little challenging for us as it was for most of the teams that went down there to run," Crampton said. "The weather was so cool that it made the race cars pretty prone to shaking and all that kind of stuff. But nonetheless, I was able to get 24 more runs under my belt and got some very valuable seat time."
In Funny Car, Tommy Johnson Jr. will return to the competition, taking over for the retired Johnny Gray in the Don Schumacher Racing entry. Johnson's last full-time season was in 2008 but is among a handful of drivers to have won national events in Top Fuel and Funny Car.
"It's a very good team," Johnson said. "Getting back full time is one thing, but to get back with an organization like Don Schumacher Racing and to know that you have the cars and the resources and the people there that are capable of winning, it gives you a great opportunity."

subset: commoncrawl


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This week's writers are Annie Noonan, commissioner of the Vermont Department of Labor and Lisa Gosselin, commissioner of the Vermont Department of Economic Development. Gosselin is married to Addison Independentpublisher Angelo Lynn.
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The Treasure that Turns Other Treasures to Garbage
John Piper
But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ. Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith.
Paul has a way of playing your game, winning, and then saying the game is bunk. He does it, for example, in 2 Corinthians 11:21-12:11 where he lists his "superior" achievements and then says, "I have been a fool! You forced me to it" (2 Corinthians 12:11). In other words, I can play your game of measuring myself by your standards, win, and then call it all worthless. It is fool's play.
He does it again here in Philippians 3. He warns the church to watch out for the evildoing dogs who mutilate the flesh (people who insist on circumcision as a way of getting right with God). The problem with these people is that they "put confidence in the flesh"-that is, they bank on their works for justification (vv. 2-3, cf. v. 9).
So Paul says, OK let's play that game for a moment. And then he lists his works of the flesh and knocks his opponents out of the ring with legal achievements. "If anyone else thinks he has reason for confidence in the flesh, I have more." Indeed he does.
Then come three of the best verses in all the Bible. In essence: the victory I just won in the contest of the flesh is a pile of garbage (the Greek is sku,bala, v. 8). And the reason he uses such a strong word (refuse!) is that the alternative is Christ. Compared to Christ being the greatest Pharisee of his time was foul garbage.
But that is too vague. He is not vague. He does not say simply that compared to Christ legal achievements are garbage; he is more specific. He says that what is superior to moral and religious achievements is 1) knowing Christ, 2) gaining Christ, and 3) being found in Christ.
1. Knowing Christ. "Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord" (v. 8). "Knowing" here is not just knowing the fact that Jesus is Lord. It is the kind of knowing that prompts the phrase, "my Lord"! He knows the supreme Lord of the universe (see 2:9-11) as his Lord. So there are two aspects to Paul's passion for Christ here. One is the rational and relational knowledge of the greatest person in the universe. Paul's mind and heart are full of Christ. The other is that he belongs to Christ as subject to the all-ruling, all-protecting Lord. This is better than being at the top of any human heap.
2. Gaining Christ. "For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ" (v. 8). "Gain" means get all that Christ is for us in heaven, not just on earth. Paul has already said, "To live is Christ and to die is gain" (v. 21), because "to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better" (1:23). And he is about to say, "I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own" (3:12). So it is clear that part of what makes human achievement a pile of garbage compared to Christ is that soon (and very soon!) he is going to meet the king-in a way far more full and intimate and stunning and satisfying than anything he has known here. And he has known so much of Christ here that the garbage verdict has been rendered on that alone.
3. Being found in Christ. ". . . and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith" (v. 9). Paul was overwhelmed by the fact that "in Christ"-that is, united to Christ by faith alone-he possessed a righteousness that was infinitely better than all his legal achievements could ever be. Paul knew he needed a righteous life in order to be accepted by God and in order to enjoy all the glories of Christ forever. He did not have such a righteousness in himself. He needed the free gift of righteousness from God himself. God gave it to him in Christ.
Therefore Jesus Christ was both the treasure he cherished and the one who provided the right to have the treasure. In Christ alone Paul had a right to know and gain Christ. And that is all he wanted. That is the gospel. This is what we mean by treasuring Christ together. Christ alone is the ground of our acceptance with God and the goal of our heart's desire. He is our righteousness and our reward. Compared to him (knowing him, gaining him, being found in him) all else is garbage.
Treasuring Christ together with you,
Pastor John
By John Piper. © Desiring God. Website: www.desiringGod.org. Email: firstname.lastname@example.com. Toll Free: 1.888.346.4700.


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Did The NRA Pay For Nugent's Inflammatory Obama Attacks?
Blog ››› ››› OLIVER WILLIS
Ted Nugent may have been compensated by the National Rifle Association for incendiary comments he made at the 2012 NRA annual meeting, according to documents obtained by Media Matters.
At this year's convention Nugent accused President Obama of having a "vile, evil America-hating administration" that is "wiping its ass with the Constitution" while telling the crowd that "We need to ride into that battlefield and chop their heads off in November." Nugent also claimed that "If Barack Obama becomes the president in November, again, I will either be dead or in jail by this time next year." Nugent's comments are reportedly being reviewed by the Secret Service.
According to a 2012 "report of the secretary" memo released to the annual meeting of NRA members detailing payments to board members in excess of $2,000, Nugent was paid $50,000 plus travel expenses for his presentation at the 2011 annual meeting:
The payment to Nugent by the NRA is well above the $35,000 "average fee" listed on his profile page with Celebrity Talent International, a booking agency for performers, speakers, sports figures and actors.
It is likely that Nugent, who is a member of the NRA Board and has appeared at the last eight NRA annual conventions (2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004), had a similar arrangement in place for this year's events.
In an interview yesterday with Dana Loesch, Nugent said "I would stand by my speech," and claimed he was being attacked with the "Saul Alinsky Rules for Radicals playbook."
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Engineered Music Products (EMP) was founded in 2007 by industry professionals with over thirty years experience in designing, engineering and manufacturing high-performance loudspeakers for companies such as ParaSound, McIntosh, JBL, Destination Audio and Fosgate. EMP Tek is a sister company of speaker manufacturer RBH Sound. For years I have heard people talk about tubes ("valves" if you are British) and how warm and wonderful they sound. Now, if you are like me (frugal), you have looked at various manufacturers of tube amplifiers and balked at the prices. Prima Luna, Vincent and Cary come to mind when you think about some of the major tube companies.
I stumbled upon this amp while surfing the internet and found that EMP has a special deal that pairs this amp with some of their bookshelf speakers. I was stunned at the price! More speakers I do not need, but a hybrid tube integrated amp for under $400 bucks really caught my eye. This just might be my train ticket to Tubeville.
- Design: Integrated Tube Hybrid (Solid State Power Supply, Tube Gain Stages)
- Power Output: 40 Watts RMS x 2 into 8 Ohms, 60 Watts RMS x 2 into 4 Ohms
- MFR: 20 Hz -20 kHz (10 Hz – 100 kHz Bandwidth)
- S/N: > 80 dB
- Inputs: One Pair RCA, Two 1/8″ (e.g., for iPod)
- Outputs: Five-way Speaker Binding Posts, Line Level (for Driving Subwoofer)
- Line Level Input Sensitivity: 450mV
- Dimensions:4.5″ H x 6.6″ W x 10.25″ D
- Weight: 8 Pounds
- EMP Tek
So what's up with tubes anyway and why do music lovers swoon over them? Tubes primarily create even order harmonic distortion that can sound warmer and more pleasant to our ears. Solid state amps can produce odd harmonics that can create a harsher, grittier sound when pushed too hard. (Check out "tubes" in our Primer section for more details on how they work). The VT-40.2 applies tubes to the preamp and acts as a unity gain buffer. The actual power amp is a solid state toroidal A/B linear design. The transformer sits on top and to the back of the VT-40.2. It is encased in a nice black anodized aluminum "tower" that adds to the retro look of this amp. The front panel sports an On/Off toggle, selector switch for 3 inputs and a volume knob. Simple and sweet. Even a complete novice should be able to set this up in no time flat.
Back by the transformer are the 5-way speaker terminals. Because of their location, I recommend either banana terminals or plain wire as spades might not fit onto the posts due to space limitations. The terminals are on top probably to provide more room for the amp to be placed on a desk top. It certainly makes them easy to access.
Aesthetically, in my opinion, the terminals look nice on top. The amp as a whole is small, lightweight and solidly built with a good fit and finish. I was able to transport it from one room to another and have it up and running in minutes. Try doing that with a 70 lbs. seven channel amp! On the back of the VT-40.2 there are one pair of RCA analog level inputs, two 3.5mm plug inputs for an MP3 player or iPod and one 3.5mm output should you decide to add a powered sub to the mix.
Now the tubes that come on the VT-40.2 are 6N3s and have a rated lifespan of about 5 years or so depending on the amount of usage your amp gets. I understand that these are not very high-end, but they perform well in this application. I was able to buy four more from China for $18 (plus free shipping…told you I was frugal). Why buy four more? Well, I plan on keeping this amp and now I am all set for the next 15 years. Sweet!
The usual caveat applies to these tubes: Don't handle them with bare hands as the oily fingerprints can cause the tubes to "pop" when heated. Pull a spent tube straight up and out, no twisting or you could snap off the pins. And remember where you put your stash of replacement tubes as several years may pass before you have to look for them. Also with this amp, you do not get the option to "roll your own" and mix and match like the more expensive tube devices out there. At this level and the fact that this is really designed for a tube noob, this is a small price to pay (literally).
In Use
When the VT-40.2 is powered up, it takes about 30 seconds before sound is output. This delay allows the tubes to fire up and stabilize. Each tube is highlighted with its own blue LED which blinks until the startup cycle finishes. I'll be honest. The blue glow is very cool. Nobody who has seen this amp in action has failed to comment on how it looks. In a darkened room with some relaxing music at the end of a long day…well, the VT-40.2 really worked for me.
My son came home from college the other day and absolutely coveted this amp. And why not? It would be ideal for a dorm room or as a desk top computer sound system. I initially used this to power my Revel F12 towers and it produced a rich, detailed sound. Treble was sweet and smooth. Bass had good depth and weight. I know "warm" is a common descriptor, but my feeling on this is that the VT-40.2 was rolling off the treble ever so slightly and made some of my older CDs sound less harsh. Cymbals sounded fine, but that very high end sizzle was a touch smoother and less airy. Sibilance was also reduced, but to good effect. Overall, this amp was able to produce sound quality that was less fatiguing on the ears over extend listening sessions. The VT-40.2 started to run out of steam when I ramped the volume way up, but in a small to moderate sized room it gave a great performance. I next moved the amp downstairs and used it to power my old Cambridge Soundworks Ensemble satellite speaker system. The VT-40.2 integrated well with them, providing satisfying bass and a rich mid-range. Vocals sounded remarkably well articulated and natural with this amp.
I hooked up my iPhone and enjoyed music from James Taylor and the Kingston Trio to Bach and Prokofiev. Basically, if you are not throwing a wild house party, this amp will provide you with good clean sound at volumes that are more than adequate for personal listening. Vocals and acoustic instruments sound particularly well with the VT-40.2. This would be a great amp for driving computer speakers. In fairness, I must warn you that after extended listening this amp ran warm…sometimes hot. Keep it in a well ventilated area and don't set things made of plastic too close to the amp. If you put it on your desk space, it will give you an excuse to keep your clutter down. If you have small children, be aware that the blue glowing tubes may attract curious fingers.
If you have always been intrigued by tubes but put off by the high cost of membership to the club, the EMP Tek VT-40.2 may just be your ticket to ride. It has a 30 day money back guarantee and if you order now, you can get the "special" with the amp and speakers for under $350. What do you have to lose? This is an ideal opportunity for you to dip your toe into the pool and not get soaked.
My problem lies in the fact that I liked listening to it so much, that I might be tempted to pursue some tube products from some of the hi-end guys. How does one resist the seductive call of the "tube siren"? This tube addiction may prove costly. So much for frugality!


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Owing almost $16 trillion dollars can make even the most free-spending of governments more fiscally responsible. The Pentagon has been the beneficiary of 10 continuous years of military budget increases. But with planning for the Fiscal Year (FY) 2013 federal budgets coming during an election year, there is no doubt that the US Department of Defense (DoD) will have less operating capital next year. And less DoD dollars will directly translate into less RF and microwave dollars.
The DoD's budget accounts for about 20% of total annual federal spending, the impact of which can be readily seen in many of the catalogs and websites for companies throughout the RF/microwave industry. Affected products range from electronic components and modules for electronic-warfare (EW) and radar applications to devices for terrestrial and satellite-communications (satcom) systems.
Some of the reductions in defense spending will come from diminishing overseas operations (e.g., the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan). Overall, the Pentagon is planning for a year-over-year decrease in its FY2013 budget and, hopefully, the start of a trend that will result in about $487 billion in cuts over the next decade. The DoD goal is for a smaller, more-agile fighting force, with less fighter aircraft, ships, and fighting forces.
Politicians will argue that a defense force with so many fewer troops will be "toothless" when needed. But military professionals should take some comfort from the concept of more agile fighting forces, backed by judicious use of technology.
Scaled-back military budgets should not put an end to technology advancements at major contractors, but merely a rethinking of their approaches. Far-reaching and over-ambitious efforts should be replaced with more practical attempts to equip soldiers in the field with reliable and secure communications, EW, radar, and countermeasures systems. History has shown that almost any electronic product can be improved over time and made smaller and lighter and for less. The move towards using commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) electronic components was a step in the right direction.
In addition, many of the technologies that military funding has helped to developsuch as software-defined radios (SDRs) and cognitive radios (CRs)lend themselves to cost reductions over time by "borrowing" technology from leading computer chip manufacturers, without sacrificing the encryption security and in-the-field reliability that those radio technologies provide. Quite often, the DoD's Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is viewed as a form of "cash channel" to different industries, including the RF/microwave industry, for technologies that may serve little purpose. But it should also be pointed out that DARPA's funding of this industry has enabled such technologies as GaAs MMICs, and GaN and SiC power transistors.
Cutbacks in the defense budget will no doubt impact some companies in this industry. But those same cutbacks will also mean opportunities for others, provided they are willing to work with defense contractors on finding the means to advance technology while also achieving cost reductions.
Jack Browne
Contributing Editor


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Join the Alamo for a statewide tour across Texas to discuss the future of the Shrine of Texas Liberty. The Alamo Treasure Roadshow will stop in a total of nine cities where Texans can learn about the ongoing preservation work happening at the state's most well-known historic site and to share their own family stories, documents, and artifacts related to Texas history and the Texas Revolution. All the treasures attendees bring to the events will be documented by the Alamo team, and could help shape the future of exhibits and historical interpretation at the Alamo. The Alamo Treasure Roadshow is an opportunity for history enthusiasts to learn about the plan to preserve the Alamo and to build the state's largest Texas Revolution museum.
April 30
McAllen Convention Center
700 Convention Center Blvd., Room 102-ABC, McAllen TX 78501
300 Alamo Plaza
San Antonio, TX 78299


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Loyola at a Glance
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Hurricane Isaac tests Loyola's emergency response plans
September 7, 2012
In the days following Hurricane Isaac's slow march across south Louisiana, Loyola University New Orleans administrators have been reviewing their response with a critical eye to ensure emergency preparations continue to evolve and meet the demands of each situation.
Loyola's Emergency Management Team first assembled on Friday, Aug. 24 at 10:30 a.m., as Isaac was churning near the Florida Keys, to address the possibility of the storm impacting the greater New Orleans area. With five to six days out from landfall, computer models varied widely about where the storm was headed.
"One of the most difficult aspects universities face for hurricane response is deciding when to make the call to cancel classes and suspend operations, especially when the storm is days away and expected landfall locations vary widely on computer models," said Loyola's Emergency Manager Stephen Murphy. "Even as late as Sunday morning, Isaac was east of Miami and the cone of uncertainty was shifting widely across the Gulf Coast."
Regardless of the uncertainty of landfall, the university began making its emergency preparations, from securing loose items on construction sites to making calls to emergency partners to clear the way for swift insurance claims. Departments across campus were put on notification to review their individual emergency plans and be prepared to enact them should the storm head this way. By Monday morning, classes had been canceled, faculty and staff across the university were prepping their areas for a hurricane, and many students began evacuating.
Beginning Tuesday, Aug. 28, New Orleans felt the first of Isaac's high winds and heavy rains, which lasted for two days as the storm slowed to a snail's pace after reaching land. High wind gusts remained until late Thursday, hampering Entergy crews' responses and keeping the city without power, a state it had been in since early morning on Wednesday. These widespread power outages hampered Internet-based communications for several organizations in New Orleans including Loyola, but corrective measures were taken by Loyola's EMT members during the storm to allow for daily updates on Loyola's website, its emergency phone hotline and through its social media channels.
Approximately 600 students sheltered-in-place with the university and they, along with the entire city, were faced with a long, hot indoor campout. Fortunately, power was restored to portions of the university by Friday, and the Physical Plant team was able to run air conditioning to residence halls by Saturday. Students were served three meals a day, at least one of them hot, and resident assistants and co-curricular staff led students in a string of activities to help keep boredom at bay. University Police patrolled both of Loyola's campuses 24 hours a day throughout the storm's approach and departure.
When Isaac's winds finally pushed through, Loyola was fortunate in that no one was hurt and that its property received minor damage. Two days of constant wind-driven rain resulted in 24 inches of rain on campus, several leaks and the loss of some equipment. Damage assessments continue, but the majority of the university's water damage has been corrected with water extraction and dehumidifiers. Once power was fully restored on Sunday, Sept. 2, Physical Plant crews worked swiftly to bring all buildings back on line with fully-functioning life-safety systems in order to return the campus to normal operations.
Loyola's Emergency Management Team continues to examine its response to the storm and has identified areas of improvement to fine tune its emergency processes and procedures for future events. Some of these include establishing set durations for suspension of operations, creating an on-site emergency operations center and providing redundant communications and Internet connectivity to core EMT members.
"Each storm we experience is different and offers its own unique challenges for a response team," Murphy said. "For Isaac, its eventual stall made conditions impossible for power crews to work on downed lines until Thursday evening, ultimately extending the power outages. Our after-action reviews will illustrate ways to improve and allow for corrective actions to be incorporated into preparedness plans going forward."
For the latest updates about Loyola University New Orleans, follow us on Twitter @LoyolaNOLANews or become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/loyno.
Loyola at a Glance is written and distributed for the faculty, staff, students and friends of Loyola University New Orleans. It is published by the Office of Public Affairs, Greenville Hall, Box 909, 7214 St. Charles Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70118. (504) 861-5888.
Information to be included in Loyola at a Glance must be received 2-3 weeks in advance of the publication date. Send us your news here.


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Entertaining guests often proves one of the most exciting aspects of home ownership. To ensure your guests are received in good comfort, decorate your living and entertainment areas with Rooms To Go home entertainment furniture. We know our customers need storage space and practical means to obtain it. That's why we offer beautifully crafted home entertainment centers, entertainment wall units, and home entertainment cabinets featuring casual, contemporary, rustic, and traditional designs. We don't just slap gaudy pieces of plastic together. Choose from sleek, smooth finishes, like cherry, dark pine, walnut, and ash. We also offer home entertainment units in eclectic colors and contrasting finishes, such as white wash, metal, espresso, ebony, and chocolate.
With an extensive selection of colors and designs, our entertainment centers fit any décor. We offer entertainment centers that match everything from casual and contemporary to traditional room styles. Our casual entertainment centers incorporate high functionality into clean designs. Intended to keep wires out of sight, a traditional entertainment center maintains an old-style feel in a room. Many of our contemporary entertainment centers cleverly blend art and function. In addition to offering great décor options, we keep value in mind. Our home entertainment centers are quality made and offered at a range of affordable prices.
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Protect California kidney patients from losing their health insurance
Thousands of dialysis & transplant patients in California stand to lose their health insurance if AB 290 (Wood) becomes law.OPPOSE AB 290
Thirty million Americans are living with chronic kidney disease, including more than 650,000 individuals who have kidney failure and rely on dialysis or transplantation to survive. As the nation's largest nonprofit organization serving people with, and at-risk for, kidney disease, the American Kidney Fund is a strong and independent voice to increase awareness of kidney disease and advocate for policies that improve access to health care and that strengthen quality of care for individuals with kidney disease. We work with Congress, the administration, federal agencies, and state governments to advance legislation and regulatory policies important to kidney patients and their families.
Protect California kidney patients from losing their health insurance
Thousands of dialysis & transplant patients in California stand to lose their health insurance if AB 290 (Wood) becomes law.OPPOSE AB 290
Advocate for kidney patients
Our Advocacy Network plays a vital role in influencing public policy that helps ensure access to quality care for kidney patients, as well as educating communities about kidney disease, its causes, and how to prevent it. Learn more about advocacy and how you can make your voice heard.
Take action on current issues
Keeping policymakers informed is critical in the fight against kidney disease. Add your voice to thousands of other voices in our Advocacy Network and help us make a difference!
Join our Advocacy Network
There is strength in numbers. More than 8,700 passionate patients, friends, loved ones and kidney care professionals in our Advocacy Network are making a huge difference on Capitol Hill and in their own communities. Together, we are fighting for policies that help patients. Add your voice to our Advocacy Network by joining today.
Charitable premium assistance
In the ongoing debate over charitable premium assistance, it is easy to lose sight of the most important aspect: the patient. When AKF is unable to help low-income kidney patients to maintain their insurance coverage, the effect on patients can be devastating. Learn more about our position.
Public policy and kidney disease
Decisions made by Congress and government agencies affect the quality of care that dialysis patients receive, the amount funding for kidney disease research and the payment of health care providers. We continuously monitor regulations and legislation that affect kidney patients and their families, and—together with like-minded organizations and our Advocacy Network—we work with Congress, the administration, federal agencies, and state governments to advance our legislative and regulatory policy agenda. Read about the issues we are monitoring and working on this year.
Advocacy blog
Check out our advocacy blog to learn about best practices in engaging your elected officials, and the public policy issues affecting health care and kidney disease.
Get the latest news
Keep up with what's going on in our Advocacy Network as well as with AKF programs and events. Read about the latest developments in legislation and policy that affect kidney patients and access to care. Catch up with the latest news.


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One Door Closes, another Opens
When One Door Closes, another Opens
It was once quoted that, "You are never given a dream without also being given the power to make it true. You may have to work for it, however." It is easy to have dreams, but the rarity of an individual's dreams becoming a reality lie within their ability to make them come true. Some are fortunate enough to have them happen, some have them thrust upon them, and some have to work for their dreams. Either way, we are the ones who have the power to make dreams reality.
Growing up in a family of five, being the youngest of three girls was always a challenge for me. I would watch my sister's success in school and sports and tell myself that I wanted to be just like them, if not, better. Striving for excellence in everything I do has been instilled in me since I was a child. Always wanting to beat records in athletics and academics, constantly setting the bar higher than imaginable was and will always be my way of life.
At age fourteen I was told that I had fractured two of the discs in my lower spine and it had affected the nerves so much that if I continued to play volleyball I would never walk again. After my parents took me to three different spine specialists only to hear the same verdict, I had just about given up. I was not upset about not being able to walk, I was upset at the fact I would not be able to play. If there was a way I could play through the pain I would, which is exactly what I did. I continued my physical therapy visits and just kept reminding myself that there are always worse things that could happen. In life, there are always worse things. Like my grandfather, who was diagnosed and passed away with pancreatic cancer in 2006.
The man who taught me so many life lessons and was a huge part of my life was now gone. I had spent the next two and half years mad at the world and somehow taught myself to hide my emotions and to never get attached to anything or anyone. In losing someone that meant so much to me and instilled many of the characteristics that made me who I am today, I grew a passion for medicine. I took an anatomy class in school and researched the internet for diseases and how they become what they are, I watched television shows on medical discoveries and the piece of information that has influenced my life the most; there has been no discovery of a cure to cancer. It was then that I knew what I wanted to go to school for and how I could impact the world.
In my opinion, going through the death of a loved one at a young age is just as hard as going through it when you are an adult. Some say that when you are a young adult or a child, you do not really comprehend serious things like death, money, and "adult" life. Witnessing one of the greatest people in my life pass away was the hardest thing by far that I have ever gone through. As a family, we grew stronger, but also as an individual I grew stronger mentally and emotionally. From my back problem, to the emotional down fall my family went through, I learned how to become more mature than my peers and others at my age. As much as I wish that my grandfather never passed away I always continue to look at the brighter side and realize that it did do many positive things for me instead of negative.
So here I am today, still walking and pain free. I am attending Ball State University as a volleyball student athlete and continuing my quest to make a difference in the world. I am the only student athlete to graduate out of my high school and district, Plainfield School District 202, with unbroken records and be on a varsity sport all four years. I was Female District 202 athlete of the year through my freshman and senior year. I was announced Most Valuable Player of the conference as a senior and made the all conference team each of the four years. I was a member of the high honor roll for academics all four years of high school and graduated in the top twenty percent of my class and received gold cords for being a member of the National Honors Society.
None of my accomplishments would have been possible if it were not for my family and all of the obstacles I had to overcome. Dealing with a fractured spine and the loss of a family member was just the start of my learning. Throughout everything, I have persevered and truly learned the essence of hard work and determination. I know my dreams will become a reality someday because I will continue to raise the bar and work to be a doctor who will find cures for diseases, which will help relieve families from having to feel the way I felt when my grandfather passed.


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A former strategist for Sen. John McCain's failed 2008 presidential run had some harsh words for anyone claiming voter fraud is alive and well in the United States.
During a Monday morning appearance on MSNBC, Steve Schmidt criticized the recent spate of voter ID laws, all aiming to fix what creators call a massive problem in America.
"I think that all of this stuff that has transpired over the last two years is in search of a solution to a problem, voting fraud, that doesn't really exist when you look deeply at the question," Schmidt said in the interview. "It's part of the mythology now in the Republican Party that there's widespread voter fraud across the country."
Watch the full interview, courtesy of ThinkProgress:
A recent ProPublica investigation found that since 2000, only one case of voter impersonation has been reported for every 15 million votes cast.
DON'T MISS: Todd Akin Was Arrested Eight Times For Protesting At Abortion Clinics >


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In many ways, the Ravens' troubling 21-7 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals yesterday was a replay of everything that has gone wrong this season, from poor quarterback play to fumbles to ineptness in the red zone.
The difference yesterday: This could have marked the end of the Ravens' season, as well as Steve McNair's run as a starting quarterback.
Against a Bengals defense that had given up 30.5 points a game - tied for worst in the NFL - McNair committed three of the Ravens' six turnovers (two fumbles and one interception) and failed to lead a scoring drive, all of which dropped the Ravens to 4-5 this season (0-4 in the AFC North) and led an M&T Bank crowd of 71,130 to boo vigorously.
Last week, an emotional McNair bristled at criticism that he couldn't play anymore. Yesterday, a subdued McNair seemed resigned to the fact that he could lose his job to backup Kyle Boller.
"Right now, the last two games, my turnovers have been killing this football team," McNair said. "If [the coaches] decide to go with Kyle, that's fine [and] I'm backing him up. I probably would agree with them."
After the Ravens' third straight loss and their first at home in nine games, coach Brian Billick didn't back McNair as strongly as he had done all season. A change could be announced as early as today.
Asked whether McNair was still "his guy," Billick said, "As of right now, yeah. Obviously, we'll make all our judgments going forward."
A wounded Ravens defense did an admirable job to keep it close against the last-place Bengals (3-6). The Ravens didn't allow a touchdown, even though both starting cornerbacks were inactive - Chris McAlister has a knee strain and Samari Rolle has an undisclosed illness - and another cornerback, Corey Ivy, left with a concussion on the second defensive series.
But McNair dropped the ball ... several times, in fact.
His interception in the end zone - the Bengals made a good play on a lob to tight end Todd Heap - ended the Ravens' best chance of scoring in the first half.
His fumble in the third quarter - the ball was swatted away by safety Chinedum Ndukwe chasing from behind - led to a field goal.
And his fumble in the fourth quarter - McNair lost the grip on the ball simply winding up to throw - led to another field goal, which gave the Bengals a 21-0 lead.
Since returning from groin and back injuries, McNair has passed for a total of 191 yards in two starts, throwing two interceptions and fumbling three times. This is a dramatic fall for a quarterback who was the NFL's co-Most Valuable Player four years ago.
"This is probably the lowest point in my career," McNair said . "What do I need to do about it? I don't know. I'm trying to play hard to help this team, but it's just not there."
McNair finished 17-for-26 for 128 yards and one interception before being pulled with 7:33 left in the fourth quarter.
Boller, who received cheers when he entered the game, was 6-for-8 for 89 yards in two drives, throwing an interception in the end zone and setting up the Ravens' only touchdown with a 47-yard completion to Mark Clayton. Willis McGahee scored from 1 yard out on the next play with 1:56 left.
If the Ravens were going to make a quarterback change, it likely would have to occur this week. That would give Boller a chance to play the Cleveland Browns at home before facing a tough three-game stretch against the San Diego Chargers, New England Patriots and Indianapolis Colts.
But many players continued to voice their support for McNair, who has led the Ravens to one touchdown in his past 35 drives.
"He's going to find a way to get through this and pull himself out of this," wide receiver Derrick Mason said. "As an offense, we have to help him. Right now, the verdict is out with the fans. They want to crucify him, point-blank. As a team, we're going to stand behind him and continue to fight for him."
Said left guard Jason Brown: "We have a great quarterback; he's still a great quarterback. He will continue to be a moving force in this league."
Yet it's unlikely to think the Ravens will become a force in the playoff race anytime soon. They have lost five games in the AFC, which would hurt their chances as far as tiebreakers, and they have never reached the postseason when they have had a losing record after nine games.
Ravens linebacker Terrell Suggs said the Ravens are "close" to hitting rock bottom.
"If you would have come to me when we reported to training camp and said, 'You guys are going to be 0-4 in the division,' I would have bet the house that we wouldn't be," Suggs said. "But you know, it's gut-check time. We're going to see who the real men are."


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In his Boston Herald column, Jules Crittenden takes a look at the recent Amnesty International Report on Hezbollah's conduct in the war: "Hezbollah war crimes: Amnesty International cries Uncle." Jules is pleasantly surprised, but this paragraph leaves us in some suspense regarding AI's pending report on Israel's conduct:
AI did not address the issue of an estimated 1,000 Lebanese civilians killed when Israel attacked Hezbollah fighting and command positions that had been established within populated villages, or the use of civilian vehicles, buildings and clothing by Hezbollah fighters, who also sometimes fought in Israeli uniforms.That is still the subject of investigation, and AI announced those issues, unlike the Hezbollah violations, are too complex for immediate comment. Readers will recall that perceived Israeli transgressions were what attracted the most attention and condemnation during the Lebanon conflict, and that those occurences were largely presented as Israel's fault. It will be interesting to see if AI attempts to sort out how many of those 1,000 were actually Hezbollah guerrillas, and how many cases of "Israeli" attacks on civilian buildings and vehicles — such as ambulances — were staged Hezbollah propaganda events, and in some cases, if the dead were actually dead, or play-acting, or being recounted and shuffled around.


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Looking to invest in wine?
Tue 6 Jul 2004
Looking to invest in wine? The Alternative Investment Show on 17-19th September 2004 at the ExCel Exhibition Centre, Docklands aims to show you how. Expert advice will be on hand to advise on wine investment and there will also be opportunities to meet wine merchants and attend tastings and seminars. Advice on other alternative investments such as cars, art and property will also be available. For more information and tickets visit www.alternativeinvestmentshow.com.


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Blanket Cotton 50% Lamb Wool 50%
Cotton 50% Lamb Wool 50%
Japanese craftsmanship + European machinery All TENJIN linen items are carefully manufactured by skilled Japanese artisans using traditional shuttle looms from Europe. Our artisans value a small lot production and work intricately on the manufacturing and quality-control of each and every item. The specialized shuttle loom prevents damage to the fabric, and maintains the naturally soft texture of linen. Sustainable & eco-friendly Linen fibers are made from the flax plant. Flax grows naturally, and requires far less water and energy than cotton.It takes approximately 6.4 liters of water to make one linen T-shirt, versus the 26 liters of water needed for one cotton shirt. In addition to preserving water, the entire flax plant can be used to make linen, which reduces waste as well. Natural & safe We use linen threads imported from Europe, which are known as the best quality linen fibers in the world. These threads are certified by The STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEXÎ and do not contain any toxic substances.
Made in Japan
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USE OF ACCOUNTABILITY INDICATORS TO EVALUATE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRINCIPAL PERFORMANCE by Chiae Byun-Kitayama __________________________________________________________________ A Dissertation Presented to the FACULTY OF THE USC ROSSIER SCHOOL OF EDUCATION UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree DOCTOR OF EDUCATION May 2012 Copyright 2012 Chiae Byun-Kitayama
Object Description
|Use of accountability indicators to evaluate elementary school principal performance
|Byun-Kitayama, Chiae J.
|Author email
|Doctor of Education
|Document type
|Degree program
|Education (Leadership)
|Rossier School of Education
|Date defended/completed
|Date submitted
|Date approved
|Restricted until
|Date published
|Advisor (committee chair)
|Hocevar, Dennis
|Advisor (committee member)
Garcia, Pedro Enrique
García, Pedro Enrique
Escalante, Michael F.
|Recently, the federal government has pressured states to add student growth data as a part of the evaluation system. State legislatures in New York and Colorado have passed legislation to revamp teacher and principal evaluation to include student growth data. Numerous researchers acknowledged the critical impact of school principals on student achievement, and asserted the need to develop a coherent evaluation that would assess and expand the capacity of principals. ❧ This study examined accountability indicators designed to evaluate elementary school principals. A quantitative approach was used to study correlation between six accountability indicators (Academic Performance Index (API) scores, similar-school ranks, residualized difference (RD) scores, Value Added Method (VA) scores, Academic Growth over Time (AGT) scores, and school experience surveys) and three external factors (socio-economic status, mean parent education level, and percentage of English Learners). ❧ The participants included elementary schools in the Los Angeles Unified School District from 2005 to 2010. The data files were collected from the public websites, and were downloaded and analyzed. ❧ The study's conclusions are: API scores were extremely stable, but AGT scores were not nearly as stable over the years. There was a steady growth in API over the years. Employee and student survey results were strongly correlated, but neither correlated to parent ratings. None of the school experience surveys were correlated with test-based accountability indices. API scores were strongly related to all three external factors, but VAM scores, AGT scores, RD scores, and school experience survey results were not related to them. ❧ API was found to be biased against principals who were working at a school with one or more disadvantageous external factors. Thus, using API as a part of a principal performance evaluation would be unfair. ❧ Results of this study highlights similar-school ranks, RD scores, VAM scores, AGT scores, and school experience surveys as potential accountability indicators that were unbiased and fair to be included in principal performance evaluation system. RD scores were found to be the most reliable accountability indicator. Due to their low cost and simplicity, RD scores should be considered as possible alternative to complex and expensive value-added systems.
|accountability; evaluation; principal performance; elementary school principal; performance evaluation; student growth data based evaluation; school principal performance evaluation
|Part of collection
|University of Southern California dissertations and theses
|Publisher (of the original version)
|University of Southern California
|Place of publication (of the original version)
|Los Angeles, California
|Publisher (of the digital version)
|University of Southern California. Libraries
|Electronically uploaded by the author
|Legacy record ID
|Contributing entity
|University of Southern California
|Byun-Kitayama, Chiae J.
|Physical access
|The author retains rights to his/her dissertation, thesis or other graduate work according to U.S. copyright law. Electronic access is being provided by the USC Libraries in agreement with the author, as the original true and official version of the work, but does not grant the reader permission to use the work if the desired use is covered by copyright. It is the author, as rights holder, who must provide use permission if such use is covered by copyright. The original signature page accompanying the original submission of the work to the USC Libraries is retained by the USC Libraries and a copy of it may be obtained by authorized requesters contacting the repository e-mail address given.
|Repository name
|University of Southern California Digital Library
|Repository address
|USC Digital Library, University of Southern California, University Park Campus MC 7002, 106 University Village, Los Angeles, California 90089-7002, USA
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|Archival file
|Page 1
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|University of Southern California
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|USE OF ACCOUNTABILITY INDICATORS TO EVALUATE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRINCIPAL PERFORMANCE by Chiae Byun-Kitayama __________________________________________________________________ A Dissertation Presented to the FACULTY OF THE USC ROSSIER SCHOOL OF EDUCATION UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree DOCTOR OF EDUCATION May 2012 Copyright 2012 Chiae Byun-Kitayama


text: Meals On The Run Dinnertime Confessional/Tumblr hide caption toggle caption Dinnertime Confessional/Tumblr The Salt From Crock-Pots to 'Cook-Overs': Your Dinnertime Confessional Tips March 5, 2013 What's for dinner? We asked, you answered. And now we share some of our readers' savvy, time-saving tips for making dinnertime less of a mad scramble and more of a meal to relish.


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Awesome Blossoms (2-11-11) is a scientifically blended superior flower stimulant designed to nurture prolific and bold blooms in all your flowering plants. This ultra-fertilizing tincture of super phosphates is formulated with macro and micro elements, stimulating dense, vigorous flowering. Awesome Blossoms fosters explosive flower growth, promoting heavier blooms at multiple budding sites. For use in both soil and soilless systems, Technafloras Awesome Blossoms can be applied from the watering can, or mixed directly into hydroponic reservoirs.
This item is sold individually. The case size is listed for your convenience for instances where you wish to order in case quantities.
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