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That's another thing I've been struggling with since, oh, about Monday - a vague (or sometimes very acute) sense of dread. The kind of dread that gurgles up from my gut, casting a gray pall over the already dreary gray days, telling me that I would rather do anything than slog across Alaska tundra on my bicycle. This isn't wholly unexpected. I struggled a lot with a similar sense of foreboding before the 2006 Susitna 100, although I wasn't willing to admit that to myself at the time. It is all part of this great game, and that part that makes be long to wish away these next 10-odd days. Of course there will still be flashes of excitement, but I'm worried that all I may do for the next week is slink through my routine and brood.
I finally received the panic call from my dad the other day, who has been doing way more Internet research about this race than I would prefer. He informed me that, as he spoke to me, it was 43 degrees below 0 in McGrath. "Yes, yes I know it is, Dad," I said.
"Do you know what that means?" he asked.
"Well no," I said. "No, I actually have no idea."
But what little I can imagine about -43 degrees on the cold side of the Alaska Range is completely lost on my friends of co-workers, well-meaning as they are.
"So, when's your race?" they ask. I want to tell them that it's not a race, it's a full-on expedition with the added pressure to go fast, and I want to tell them that anxiety about performance is nothing compared to anxiety about perseverance.
"How long is it? 350 miles?" I want to tell them to take their Juneau concept of a mile and multiply it by at least four, that's what a mile means in Interior Alaska wilderness.
"And you're riding your bike?" And I want to say, I am taking a bike with me. I will use the bike when I can. But I have to expect the possibility that the bike will be more of a burden than a tool. That I may spend as much time pushing my bike as I do riding it. Maybe more. I want to ask them if they can understand the eternity of 2 mph when it's spread out over 350 miles.
"And they'll have checkpoints for you with food and stuff, right?" Checkpoints that are as much as a day apart, yes. That if you aren't self-sufficient out there, you might as well be a couch potato with a solid training schedule of TiVo for how likely it is you'll succeed.
"So I bet you're getting really excited." And I just nod, because I don't know what to say.
But the truth is, I am excited. The Iditarod Invitational is a guaranteed grand adventure. Even if I slip on Knik Lake ice and break my arm less than one mile into the race, I will always be able to say, "Well, I dreamed it." The most difficult step may just be showing up at that starting line. Hopefully I will be able to use some of these next 10 days to assuage some of my anxieties and get out more on my mountain bike, because this month has had entirely too much time off the bike. The Pugsley is gone and there are only a few small things I can do to prepare. The only training hump I have left to tackle is my fear.
30 comments:
These feelings are normal and part of the game. Why am I doing this is only answered at the end when you just know why. Coworkers will never get it and parents will never like it. You are well prepared for this and it will all work out in the end. As the adventurer's motto says "If you finish on time, then it was too easy to begin with". Besides, beauty doesn't know temperature, so that will always be a constant you can look forward to.
Good luck Jill and I will be rooting for you in your bike pushing expedition of pain and beauty.I love your honesty in this post. I too am tackleing some Alaska based fear - although it does not involved 350 miles across the state.
Tomorrow I have job interview with Anchorage School District. They are recruiting here on the east coast. If I get a job, which I hope I do, it is official: I am packing up and moving to a state I have never been. 4,000 miles away. By myself.
So I know what excitement mixed with dread feels like just about now!
I am sure I will say it again, but good luck on your ride. Live the dream!I have been reading your blog since November and when I found it, I went all the way back to the beginning to read everything. That being said, I'm glad to hear you are apprehensive. I think it means you fully appreciate the magnitude of what you are doing. It also makes it mean more when you succeed.
Of course, it is human nature to try to find connections and similarities with others and every time I read one of your posts I compare what I am working toward with your goal. Even though mine are much simpler, shorter and essentially easier, I am still worried.
The fact that you are worried about your adventure gives me hope because I know you will persevere, and maybe I can too.
I can't wait to watch your progress online.This last entry reminds me of one of Rocky's fight scenes. He's bleeding, sweating and only standing because he's getting battered into the ropes. Then, with the words, "But the truth is...", an uppercut! And fury unleashed on the opponent.
Fear?! I've been reading your blog for the past couple of months and the only emotion I get out of it is ass-kicking confidence. You may be wrestling with some demons that you're not relaying to us out here. But I've never caught a wiff of anything but well backed confidence. Keep your chin up!- AnonymousFebruary 14, 2008 at 7:11 AM
Good luck Jill! That feeling in your stomach may feel like dread, but it is called "living". Enjoy it.
Chad As a cyclist from balmy Minnesota, I find your story inspirational and educational. I found your blog by the great beauty of your photographs and became a regular reader because of the strength of your writing. With this post I will continue to follow to witness the courage of your convictions.
I don't recall who I am paraphrasing but someone said that it isn't courage when one faces great danger without fear, true courage is only seen when someone knows great fear and chooses to proceed anyway. I am in awe of your courage and wish you the best possible adventure.
Mark- AnonymousFebruary 14, 2008 at 7:33 AM
Invite your dad to get you a "leash" as Mike Curiak calls it. http://lacemine29.blogspot.com/
The fear is normal and good.
Your training is sufficient, just stay loose.
Don't be afraid to "hyperload" (another Curiakism) - put on a couple pounds, because you will burn it off.
Forget about fixing tires at -40 degrees. Be aware that tubes can splint at the seam and pumps break at that temperature (ala Curiak again)! Be safe, have fun, good luck!!! - AnonymousFebruary 14, 2008 at 7:48 AM
Jill, As the parent of Geoff, I can understand where your Dad is coming from - I have a lot of the same feelings bottled up inside me that I am sure he has. We will probably never like what you and Geoff are doing as long as it involves what we feel is very "dangerous" for you. I can understand the apprehension that you are feeling because I am feeling somewhat the same feeling also. I have asked myself over and over again - why are they doing this? - what will it be like? - will they be ok? - how can they be ready to do this? and on and on. You both are so motivated individuals and are so dedicated to what you set your mind to do. You have trained for this for a long time and just to be a part of something like this should make you so proud of yourselves. Even though I am horrified at the idea of the two of you doing this - I am behind you all the way and know that you are well prepared for this huge expedition. All I can say is that I will be glued to the internet to follow your progress and will be so glad when it is over (hopefully this is the first and last time you will do this). I don't think I can go thru another year of worrying about the two of you. It is almost time for the "great adventure of a lifetime". Get ready, get set and GO out and conquer your goal. We love the two of you and will be waiting to read your success story when it is over.
ReplyDelete Every time I do something big I start wondering why I'm doing it. I start thinking it would be so much easier to be like most people and just sit around and watch TV. But then life would be so boring. I really do live for the adventure.
I had been so focused on packing and making sure everything was taken care of before Race Across America that it felt so good to get started. Once all the pressure of getting ready was gone, I was so relaxed on the bike. In fact I went off the road the first day because I was zoned out and not paying attention.To add to the many "encouragement" posts, remember that during the taper phase of training, feelings of discouragement, apprehension, fear, and even depression are common.....it's not just you. Many people, including myself, experience these feelings. A measure of comfort can be found in understanding they're part of the process.
Trust in your training. You've put in the miles, you're prepared, and you'll do great!!!- AnonymousFebruary 14, 2008 at 12:16 PM
"Endurance in patience concentrated."
Each mile may seem longer than the last, but keep your pedals turning and your feet moving, and you'll find the finish line. Likely exhausted, frozen and hungry, but from what I've learned about you through your blog, I bet you'll have a smile on your face and will have learned more about yourself over the 350 miles than most do in a lifetime.
Enjoy! You go girl!
I've been reading your blog with a sense of awe and admiration during what has been a rather warm summer here in Melbourne...trying to imagine what riding in the snow must be like.
Your photography is awesome, adding to my admiration for you and your blog.
The sense of dread/horrified anticipation that you are experiencing now is one that all athletes contemplating something as huge as what you are doing will and should feel....its all part of the package.
I hope all goes well for you . Total respect.If you didn't have aprehension I'd be worried about you. But because you have and are expressing your aprehension it means you understand the nature of the challenge you face.
You have prepared your body, bike, and mind for this. Your bike has shipped off. Your body is as ready as it is going to be. Your mind is the only thing left that your brain has the possibility of defeating in an attempt at what it feels is self preservation.
Fear is natural. Try to switch the focus to something else when those thoughts well up. You are prepared!- AnonymousFebruary 14, 2008 at 1:03 PM
As an old bike racer and rock climber, I discovered that the "butterflies" and sense of apprehension is your mind's way of preparing you for a good performance. You should be nervous, but not paralyzed by fear. Knock 'em dead!
ReplyDelete - AnonymousFebruary 14, 2008 at 1:55 PM
as a person prone to anxiety, anticipating the feeling of dread that can lead to depression battles before or on the trail (why am I doing this?), and allowing them into your schedule, (now is the time where I feel like crap, and I won't soon), is a great way to get past these hurtles and allows you to look forward to the next phase. You'll rock Jill, and I'm sure will be just enjoying the moment most of the way through, hardships and all, and will be smiling with the rest of us for you when you're done :)
ReplyDelete - AnonymousFebruary 14, 2008 at 2:43 PM
You have done the training and have prepared well for this race.
I can't wait to read your report after the race that tells how well you did.
Good luck and enjoy the journey.
Michael Jill,
The fear and apprehension you feel are normal. They are also a good thing, because those are the two things that will keep you safe, and prevent you from doing something foolish. Not that you would of course. I'll never forget my first climb on Grand Teton. Very scared and always questioning what the hell I was doing. Once the climb started the apprehension went away, but the fear kind of remained in the background. It kept me sharp and I do believe it was that fear that kept me safe.
You are, by the sounds of it, very well prepared. I feel confident that you and Geoff will both do great!
I just hope you can manage to get some sleep, because I know that I wouldn't.
Ride On!
Nigity - "Always keep a smile in your heart."- AnonymousFebruary 14, 2008 at 3:20 PM
This epic trail will take you into places you cannot now imagine. It's a wonderful leap of faith. I love you for taking it. We will be thinking about you and praying for you and will be watching with great happiness to see where this takes you (in the years ahead). Breathe deeply, dreamer. jgp
ReplyDelete Jill,
I keep thinking about reading your posts and watching the incredible mileage pile up. I keep seeing all of the truly wild conditions through which you rode some of those miles. You have prepared your physical state well. It looks like you have the logistics down by the looks of your fully loaded bike. Now is the time to put the finishing touches on mentally mastering the race, visualizing your progress, from start to finish. Plus you have that little added edge of this internet "fan base"! How can you not be successful. My thought is that if you can't do it, then it can't be done. Your readers know you can do it. I look forward to reading the full race report. Wishing you and geoff all the best!
Ride strong.- AnonymousFebruary 14, 2008 at 11:57 PM
Wow - I'm looking forward to seeing how things go! Good luck!
ReplyDelete - AnonymousFebruary 15, 2008 at 12:24 AM
Good luck, Jill, Keep your mind in calm all the time (only think in the current moment, step, by step).
Regards Good luck Jill!
I have no idea what on Earth its going to be like out there - I'm not sure there's any point in guessing - but I know that (a) you will turn up at the start line and (b) 1-mile-in-Lake-accidents notwithstanding, you've got it in you to turn the dream into an extraordinary achievement.
We'll be rooting for you every (eight British) mile(s) of the way!- AnonymousMarch 4, 2008 at 6:15 PM
Jill - I'm amazed you were able to do this. What a great accomplishment!!


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Princeton University awarded honorary degrees during Commencement exercises June 2 to five distinguished individuals for their contributions to civic engagement, performing arts, engineering and sustainability.
Princeton President Shirley M. Tilghman awarded degrees to Ernesto Cortés Jr., an influential community organizer; Ruby Dee Davis, a renowned actor and civil rights activist; Irvin Glassman, a leading figure in combustion and energy research and Princeton's Robert H. Goddard Professor Emeritus of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering; Meryl Streep, an Academy Award-winning actor and advocate for women's rights; and Alice Waters, a celebrated chef and proponent of sustainable cuisine.
Honorary degree recipients are elected by Princeton's Board of Trustees. A trustee committee, which includes faculty and students, solicits nominations from the entire University.
The following is biographical information on the recipients and the official citations.
Ernesto Cortés Jr., Doctor of Laws
A native of San Antonio, Texas, Ernesto Cortés Jr. is the executive director of the Interfaith Education Fund and the southwest regional director of the Industrial Areas Foundation (IAF), a community-organizing network with affiliates in 21 states, Canada, the United Kingdom and Germany. As a young man, he worked with César Chávez and the farm workers and then with the U.S. Civil Rights Commission. In 1972, he went to Chicago to learn from Saul Alinsky, the legendary organizer and founder of the IAF. In 1974, Cortés founded Communities Organized for Public Services in San Antonio. Since then, he has helped build more than two dozen nonpartisan citizens' groups in cities from New Orleans to Des Moines to Los Angeles.
Throughout the IAF network that Cortés has helped cultivate, citizens gather regularly in living rooms, churches, synagogues and schools. They swap stories, identify shared concerns, work through differences, investigate the relevant facts, select and cultivate leaders, and take action to hold public officials and corporate executives accountable. The core leadership of the network now exceeds 25,000. Among its many accomplishments is the transformation of hundreds of "colonias" in the Rio Grande Valley from shantytowns into thriving communities with paved streets, sewerage and water systems. The network is also well known for the effectiveness of its efforts in job training, public school reform and living wage campaigns. For his community organizing efforts, Cortés received a MacArthur Foundation "genius grant" in 1984 and was awarded the H.J. Heinz Award for Public Policy in 1999. He has been a visiting professor at Harvard University and at the Massachusetts Institute for Technology.
Organizing, in his hands, works wonders: Those who were once silenced find their voice; those in authority are compelled to listen; parents and teachers join hands for the sake of children; the impoverished acquire skills and jobs; and shantytowns become prosperous neighborhoods. His message is that active and informed citizens, exercising power responsibly, can insist on accountability and achieve change. With his guidance, ordinary people, working together, are re-weaving the social fabric of democracy.
Ruby Dee Davis, Doctor of Fine Arts
Ruby Dee Davis' career has spanned many roles, including actor, author, activist and producer. Born in Cleveland but a self-proclaimed product of Harlem, the stage and screen legend who became known as "Ms. Dee" first attracted national attention in 1950 for her performance in "The Jackie Robinson Story" and broke ground in 1965 as the first black woman to play lead roles at the American Shakespeare Festival. In 1988, Dee was inducted into the Theatre Hall of Fame, honored for a host of award-winning performances in plays including "Purlie Victorious," "A Raisin in the Sun" and "A Long Day's Journey Into Night." For her work on television, Dee has been nominated seven times for Emmy Awards and was a winner in 1991 for "Decoration Day." In 2007, she was an Academy Award nominee for the film "American Gangster." Her latest film, "Steam," premiered earlier this year at the Women's International Film Festival in Miami.
Dee was the 2006 recipient of the first Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Civil Rights Museum for more than 50 years of supporting civil rights causes and creating opportunities for African Americans. As close friends of Martin Luther King Jr., she and her husband, Ossie Davis, served as masters of ceremonies for the historic 1963 March on Washington. Earlier, they risked their careers resisting McCarthyism. In 2000, they were presented with the Screen Actors Guild's highest honor, the Life Achievement Award.
A pioneer of stage and screen, an author and a producer, she transformed the worlds of 20th-century theater and film into humanitarian activist art. With lush, powerful and rolling eloquence, she moved us from the "dream deferred" era of "A Raisin in the Sun" to "Do the Right Thing." With her husband, the late, great Ossie Davis, she has dedicated more than half a century to providing cultural fuel for the civil rights movement. From Shakespearean tragedy to "American Gangster" tragedy, she has turned each performance into a testimony celebrating the three-dimensional personhood of African American women.
Irvin Glassman, Doctor of Science
Irvin Glassman, a Baltimore native, is Princeton's Robert H. Goddard Professor Emeritus of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. He is an authority on combustion as applied to problems in energy production, pollution, propulsion and fire safety. He also has made important contributions to understanding fuel reactions at very high temperatures and pressures and to the synthesis of high-temperature refractory materials. Glassman retired in 1999 after 49 years on the University faculty. He has received numerous teaching honors, including the Ralph Coats Roe Award from the American Society for Engineering Education and the School of Engineering and Applied Science Distinguished Teaching Award. He has taught and mentored dozens of students who now are leaders in research universities and at industrial research groups throughout the world. In 1972, Glassman founded the University's Center for Energy and Environmental Studies.
Glassman has been a member and chair of the NATO/AGARD Propulsion and Energetics Panel and a member of the National Academy of Science's Committee on Motor Vehicle Emissions. He is editor and founder of the journal Combustion Science and Technology and has published more than 250 articles as well as two major books. Glassman has received several awards for his technical contributions, and in 1996 was elected to the National Academy of Engineering.
His colleagues affectionately call him the "Grand Old Man of Combustion." His half century of research and teaching defined a field that propelled us to the moon and started us on the path to more efficient use of energy. He insisted, for himself and his students, on a deep understanding of the science behind the chaos of a flame, sending forth scores of new leaders who now populate the field. His gift for looking ahead led him 35 years ago to see beyond the raw power of fuels and train his energy on challenges to the environment, sparking a field of critical importance today that may determine our quality of life tomorrow.
Meryl Streep, Doctor of Fine Arts
Meryl Streep, who was born in Summit, N.J., is an actress known across the globe for her roles in film, theater and television. On stage, she has appeared in plays by Shakespeare, Strindberg, Chekhov, Brecht and Tennessee Williams. On television, she has starred in the groundbreaking miniseries "Holocaust" and "Angels in America." But she is best known for her film work, in such enduring classics as "The Deer Hunter," "Manhattan," "Kramer vs. Kramer," "The French Lieutenant's Woman," "Sophie's Choice," "Silkwood," "Out of Africa," "Heartburn," "Adaptation," "The Hours," "The Devil Wears Prada," "Mamma Mia!" and "Doubt." This summer will see the release of her latest film, "Julie and Julia," in which she plays the first television celebrity chef, Julia Child. She holds the record for Academy Award (15) and Golden Globe (23) nominations in acting, and has won two Oscars, six Golden Globes, two Emmys and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Film Institute.
An outspoken advocate for women's rights, Streep is active in the Equality Now human rights organization. She works for the well-being of children and the environment through several initiatives and was a co-founder of Mothers and Others. She also has been a regular sponsor of the Academy of American Poets' "Poetry and the Creative Mind" Gala.
She has been called the greatest actor of her generation, and she has the résumé to prove it. In an age of celebrity, she represents craftsmanship; in an age dominated by directors, she represents the centrality of the actor; in an age of special effects, she represents the power of the written word and artful movement; in an age of virtual reality, she reminds us of the story's power to shed light on what is real. She sees herself as a translator whose mission is to explain people to each other. Today we tell her how well she has succeeded.
Alice Waters, Doctor of Humanities
Alice Waters, a chef, educator and activist, has been at the forefront of the movement toward local, organic and sustainable cuisine in the United States for nearly three decades. Born in Chatham, N.J., Waters opened her landmark restaurant Chez Panisse in Berkeley, Calif., in 1971. The restaurant's singular fixed-price menu features the best local and sustainably produced ingredients, purchased from a network of nearby farmers and ranchers. Interested in bringing fresh food to a wider audience, Waters has written numerous cookbooks and also has been an advocate for local farmers markets and the Slow Food movement. In 1996, Waters began the Chez Panisse Foundation to support food-related educational programs such as the Edible Schoolyard, in which teachers use gardens to teach science lessons and to demonstrate the appeal of growing and cooking fresh produce.
Chez Panisse was named the best restaurant in America by Gourmet magazine in 2001. Waters' other honors include being named one of the world's 10 best chefs by Cuisine et Vins de France magazine in 1986, receiving the James Beard Foundation Humanitarian of the Year Award in 1997, and receiving a lifetime achievement award from Bon Appetit magazine in 2000 and from the James Beard Foundation in 2004.
Sustenance for the soul as much as for the body, her glorious food has changed the way America eats -- and thinks. Her ensemble of organic farmers, winemakers and restaurant staff brings real food to a society smothered in fast food choices, yet starved for nourishment. At a time when global agribusiness threatens not just to perfect the art of tasteless produce, but to effect a radical reduction in crop diversity, her advocacy for sustainable agriculture and slow food may change the way our children eat -- and how they understand the world.

subset: commoncrawl


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Shortly after Ben began eating his lunch, his childcare provider noticed he seemed to be trying to scratch an itch in his mouth. After he vomited and began wheezing, the care provider sought medical treatment for Ben, who was later diagnosed with a food allergy, in this case to peanuts. Along with milk, eggs, soy, wheat, tree nuts, and shellfish, peanuts are among the most common foods that cause allergies. Learning how to recognize an allergic reaction will help you get your child the medical care needed if a reaction occurs. If your child has already been diagnosed with a food allergy, it's important to know:
About Food Allergies With a food allergy, the body reacts as though that particular food product is harmful. As a result, the body's immune system (which fights infection and disease) creates antibodies to fight the food allergen, the substance in the food that triggers the allergy. The next time a person comes in contact with that food by touching or eating it or inhaling its particles, the body releases chemicals, including one called histamine, to "protect" itself. These chemicals trigger allergic symptoms that can affect the respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract, skin, or cardiovascular system. These symptoms might include a runny nose, an itchy skin rash, a tingling in the tongue, lips, or throat, swelling, abdominal pain, or wheezing. People often confuse food allergies with food intolerance because of similar symptoms. The symptoms of food intolerance can include burping, indigestion, gas, loose stools, headaches, nervousness, or a feeling of being "flushed." But food intolerance:
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), up to 6% of children in the United States under age 3 have food allergies. They are less common in adults but, overall, food allergies affect nearly 11 million people in the United States.
Common Food Allergens A child could be allergic to any food, but these eight common allergens account for 90% of all reactions in kids:
In general, most kids with food allergies outgrow them. Of those who are allergic to milk, about 80% will eventually outgrow the allergy. About two-thirds with allergies to eggs and about 80% with a wheat or soy allergy will outgrow those by the time they're 5 years old. Other food allergies are harder to outgrow. Only about 20% of people with allergies to peanuts and about 10% of those allergic to tree nuts outgrow the allergies. Fish and shellfish allergies usually develop later in life and are even more rarely outgrown.
Food Allergy Reactions Food allergy reactions can vary from person to person. Some can be very mild and only involve one part of the body, like hives on the skin. Others can be more severe and involve more than one part of the body. Reactions can occur within a few minutes or up to a few hours after contact with the food. Food allergy reactions can affect any of the four following areas of the body:
A serious allergic reaction with widespread effects on the body is known as anaphylaxis. This sudden, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction involves two or more of the body areas listed above. In addition, there also can be swelling of the airway, serious difficulty with breathing, a drop in blood pressure, loss of consciousness, and in some cases, even death.
Diagnosing a Food Allergy If you suspect that your child might have a food allergy, contact your doctor. To diagnose an allergy, the doctor will likely ask about:
The doctor will look for any other conditions that could cause the symptoms. For example, if your child seems to have diarrhea after drinking milk, the doctor may check to see if lactose intolerance could be the cause rather than a food allergy. Celiac disease — a condition in which a person cannot tolerate gluten, a protein found in wheat and certain other grains — also can mimic the symptoms of food allergies. If the doctor suspects a food allergy, you'll likely be referred to an allergy specialist, who will ask more questions, perform a physical exam, and probably perform tests to help make a diagnosis. One of those tests might be a skin test. The test involves placing liquid extracts of food allergens on your child's forearm or back, pricking the skin, and waiting to see if reddish raised spots (called wheals) form within 15 minutes. A positive test to a certain food only shows that your child might be allergic to that food — the allergist may do additional tests for confirmation. The allergy specialist might also perform blood tests, called RASTs (radioallergosorbent tests), which check the blood for IgE antibodies to specific foods. The results show the concentration of IgE in the blood. For several foods, different cutoffs indicate a high likelihood of an allergy. If someone has both a positive skin test and and a RAST above the cutoff, an allergy to that food is diagnosed and no further testing is needed. If the test results are still unclear, the allergist may perform a food challenge. (More often, though, this test is done to determine if someone has outgrown a certain allergy.) During this test, a person might be given gradually increasing amounts of the potential food allergen to eat while being watched for symptoms by the doctor. The test should only be performed in an allergist's office or hospital that has access to immediate medical care and medications because a life-threatening reaction could occur. Treating a Food Allergy After diagnosing your child with a food allergy, the allergist will help you create a treatment plan. No medication can cure food allergies, so treatment usually means avoiding the allergen and all the foods that contain it. You'll need to familiarize yourself with food labels so you can avoid the allergen. Since 2006, a new food labeling law has made this a little easier. Makers of packaged foods are required to clearly state, in or near the ingredient lists, whether the product contains milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, or soy. Although there's no cure for food allergies, medications can treat both minor and severe symptoms. Antihistamines might be used to treat symptoms such as hives, runny nose, or abdominal pain associated with an allergic reaction. If your child wheezes or has asthma flares (also called attacks) as the result of a food allergy, the doctor will likely recommend that a bronchodilator such as albuterol (which can be inhaled from a handheld pump device) be taken right away to reduce breathing difficulties. But remember: If your child experiences an allergy-triggered asthma attack, it's important to consider also giving epinephrine and seek emergency medical treatment immediately, in case the asthma symptoms are part of anaphylaxis. Epinephrine is often used to treat severe allergic reactions, or anaphylaxis. If your child has severe food allergies, your allergist will want you to have two epinephrine autoinjectors (commonly called EpiPens) on hand at all times in case of a life-threatening reaction. This will mean keeping epinephrine in your home, briefcase or purse, and also at relatives' homes and your child's day care or school. Signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis that would require epinephrine include:
After your child receives epinephrine, you should go immediately to a hospital emergency room so additional treatment can be given, if needed. Also, they'll observe your child for at least 4 hours to watch for signs of a second wave of symptoms (called a biphasic reaction) that occurs in many cases. You and your child's allergist should work together to develop a written food allergy emergency action plan to give to the school, childcare provider, and any other caregivers. Reviewed by: Hemant P. Sharma, MD From KidsHealth.com
Food Allergies Intolerances/Sensitivities


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''NATO 2020 -- Shared leadership for a shared future''
Speech by NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen at the Brussels Forum (with Q&A session)
Mr. Martens,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Thank you very much indeed for that kind introduction. And many thanks as well to the German Marshall Fund for its continuing, strong commitment to bringing Europe and North America closer together, including here at the Brussels Forum.
Mr Martens, you mentioned my love of cycling. And as you also mentioned, the key to success on a bike is to keep it in a regular, forward movement, be it uphill or downhill, and the same goes for our transatlantic alliance. And another key to success on a bike is balance. And it is a word I shall return to during my remarks this afternoon. Because the right balance is also the key to the continued success of our NATO Alliance.
The right balance is also what many of our nations are trying to find at the moment in their national budgets. The financial crisis is an immediate challenge that requires urgent attention. And our defence budgets are not immune to this crisis. Actually, between 2008 and 2011, twenty NATO nations reduced their defence spending.
This goes against the trend we can see in much of the rest of the world. This year, for the first time, Asian defence spending will outstrip that of NATO's European Allies. And Russia is planning to double its defence spending over the next decade.
These declining European defence budgets are a concern. Because every cut today will have consequences for our security tomorrow. And for what we are able to do as an Alliance.
This is no small matter. Because our Alliance is more than a collection of nations. Our Alliance is a unique community of shared values and interests. And it has played a major role in guaranteeing peace in the Euro-Atlantic area for over sixty years.
Yes, the economic crisis now dominates the headlines. Yes, new powers are emerging. But the truth is that the world still needs our Atlantic Community. Because as our mission for Libya showed, our Alliance remains an essential source of stability in an unpredictable world. NATO is the indispensable Alliance. And Europe and North America have shown that when they act together, they can be a tremendous force for good in a turbulent world.
Ladies and Gentlemen, this is a special community that we must all continue to invest in – militarily, economically, and politically. So while Europe must to a certain extent look inwards to deal with today's economic crisis, Europe must also continue to look outwards. Europe needs to look beyond today's crisis so it can stay ahead of the security challenges that tomorrow will bring. And Europe needs to strengthen its global responsibilities alongside the United States.
Because when times are tough, we need each other more than ever. We all have a stake in keeping each other strong. And, in good times and bad, we have no viable alternative to a strong Atlantic security partnership.
This is why in my remarks this afternoon, I want to lay out my vision for NATO in the year 20-20 and beyond. And show how we can realise that vision by focusing on our shared purpose, shared responsibility, and shared leadership.
So first -- our shared purpose. What is it that binds us together as Allies?
It is the belief that NATO is the primary instrument for safeguarding our security and our values. That was its purpose when it was created. It remains its purpose today. And it will remain its purpose in 2020 and beyond.
Fulfilling this shared purpose is WHAT we do. How we do it, however, changes to reflect the changing security landscape.
At our last NATO Summit in Lisbon in 2010, we agreed a new Strategic Concept – a Strategic Concept which sets out HOW we should do this during this decade and beyond. The Strategic Concept identifies three core tasks of Collective Defence, Crisis Management, and Cooperative Security.
Collective Defence means NATO Allies will always assist each other against attack.
Crisis Management means NATO helping to manage the full range of crises – before, during, and after they occur - where that contributes to Euro-Atlantic security.
And Cooperative Security means that the Alliance will engage actively to enhance international security. Through partnership with other nations and international organisations.
It is by carrying out these three tasks effectively that we will be able to continue safeguarding our security and values. And fulfilling our shared purpose.
So second – what exactly do we have to do to carry out those core tasks and meet our shared purpose? In other words, what is our shared responsibility?
In 2020, NATO must remain ready to respond to the full range of security tasks. We will still need to be able to put together complex joint operations at short notice. With high impact. And high precision. This means we will need flexible, rapidly deployable forces. And the right mix of military capabilities.
Libya was a strong reminder of what those capabilities are. They include air-to-air refuelling. And the ability to gather information through surveillance and reconnaissance, so we can make accurate intelligence assessments and select and engage the right targets with precision-guided munitions.
For the foreseeable future, defence money is likely to remain tight across the Alliance. And acquiring those capabilities will be a major challenge. But all Allies have a shared responsibility to provide them. And I firmly believe we will only be able to meet that responsibility with a new mindset - "Smart Defence".
We call it "Smart Defence" because it is about spending defence money in a smarter way. The smarter way is to prioritise. To specialise. To cooperate. To focus not just on what we cut, but on what we keep. And to choose multinational solutions instead of unilateral solutions.
We are already seeing the benefits of this approach. We are developing an Alliance Ground Surveillance system, to give our commanders a full picture of what is happening on the ground in our operations. And we are bringing together national contributions to build an integrated NATO-wide missile defence system to defend against the threats of ballistic missile proliferation.
But we must also share the responsibility for making our capabilities, and forces, work together effectively. This will be particularly important as we anticipate the drawdown of our commitments in Afghanistan, where American and European forces, as well as those of many partner nations, where they have developed an outstanding ability to operate alongside each other. We need to keep those gains. And we will – with the Connected Forces Initiative I launched earlier this year.
Now, my third point is a crucial requirement for meeting our shared purpose and our shared responsibilities – and that is shared leadership.
Europe and North America face a broad and complex security agenda. Making this continent whole and free remains work in progress. The Arab world is going through a period of major change. And further afield, especially in Asia, new security actors are making their mark.
Ladies and gentlemen, to address this agenda successfully, we need a rebalanced transatlantic relationship. European Allies must be ready and able to assume a greater leadership role. And I am confident that they can.
Over the past 20 years, more European forces have deployed in more places than ever before. In Afghanistan, the United States has taken the lead from the start of our engagement. But all our European Allies are present there too, and making a significant contribution. In Kosovo, Germany has played a leading role in our operation for some considerable time, and very effectively . And last year, in Libya, other European nations – together with Canada -- showed that they can take the lead in NATO operations.
This shows how different Allies can lead different operations. It shows NATO's enormous operational flexibility when there is political solidarity among the Allies. And that is why I am confident that European nations can share the leadership role within the Atlantic community.
One area where I hope Europe and North America can demonstrate this shared leadership is in continuing to engage other nations and organisations in building peace and stability.
The Alliance has more than 40 partners in all regions of the globe: in Europe, North Africa, The Middle East and the Gulf, Latin America, Central Asia and the Pacific.
This vast network of security partnerships is truly unique. It is vital for dealing with regional conflicts and with global security challenges such as terrorism, proliferation and piracy. And by working together with our partners, we enhance our own security. We enhance the security of their regions. And we enhance the security of the world we live in.
Cooperation with our neighbour, Russia is particularly important. We face common concerns, and they are best addressed through common approaches. I recently spoke with President-elect Putin. I told him that I look forward to continued engagement and constructive dialogue with Russia. And I was encouraged to hear him underline his commitment to good, stable relations with NATO.
Recently, President Obama announced a new focus in the US defence posture towards the Asia-Pacific region. Some are concerned this will take place at the expense of Europe and the transatlantic relationship. But I see it differently.
It is not just the economy that has globalised. Security has globalised too. And it is in Europe's interest that the United States, with whom we share our most fundamental values, contributes to upholding global peace and stability by engaging in the Asia-Pacific region.
The new American defence posture seeks to address this. But these profound, strategic challenges are just as relevant to Europe as they are to the United States. This is why Europe must also play its full part to rebalance the transatlantic Alliance. By investing sufficiently in our common security – militarily as well as financially and politically. By remaining engaged in making this continent whole, free and democratic. And by keeping an outward looking and global perspective on security.
As our global economy becomes ever more integrated, local, regional and global security and stability become ever more interrelated. We all depend on a free and diversified energy supply. Free and secure sea lanes and air space. And free and secure information and communication networks.
This is why the global rule of law, and global governance, within the principles of the United Nations' Charter, remain central to stability of our world. Why the ability to participate in, and contribute to, international crisis management is essential to our security. Why we must keep a global perspective in Europe, as in North America. And why we must invest sufficiently in the transatlantic relationship to maintain our common security in this global order.
Obviously, an American military presence in Europe is crucial for security cooperation across the Atlantic. But America's commitment to its European allies should not be measured merely by the number of troops or bases here. It should be measured by how much we do together. By where we do it. And by how effectively we do it.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I have laid out for you my vision for NATO for the year 2020 and beyond. A vision in which the transatlantic partnership is rebalanced. And in which European and North American Allies' shared purpose is met through shared responsibility, and shared leadership.
In less than two months' time we will hold our next NATO Summit in Chicago. It will be a unique opportunity for European nations – right at the heart of America -- to join their North American Allies shaping their shared future in their shared Alliance.
An Alliance whose members are committed to working together seamlessly, effectively, and efficiently. An Alliance that is capable of meeting the full range of evolving security challenges. And an Alliance that is even more connected with countries and organisations around the world.
NATO already has an impressive history of success. At Chicago we will ensure that success continues into the future - to the end of this decade, and beyond.
Thank you.
Q&A session
CRAIG KENNEDY (President, The German Marshall Fund of the United States): We're now going to move into a conversation. The Secretary General has very kindly... yes, just grab a seat up there. Has very kindly agreed to take some questions, and we'll go for probably 25 minutes or so. And we have asked Nik Gowing, who has long been involved with the Brussels Forum, to lead the questioning, as soon as we get him completely miked up.
Okay, Nik, it's all yours.
NIK GOWING (Anchor, BBC World): Thank you very much, Craig, and nice to see everyone here again.
I'm tempted, Secretary General, just before I open it up to questions, because this is not about an interview, it's about you putting your questions as well, Mr. Martens introduced the metaphor of the bicycle and talked about going uphill and going downhill. You picked it up.
Of course, in November you fell off your bicycle and had a bad accident. And I put that to you not in a facetious way, but simply because out there in the public space is another vision of NATO, which is, and I can quote many, many analyses at the moment, real questions about NATO's future, including from your predecessor, but two, worried about whether NATO can survive in its current formation, particularly with all these pressures. So I have to put it to you, particularly with the 20 reductions in budgets, and also the real limitations which were seen in Libya, even down to planning staffs not being adequate and American planners having to be flown across to bolster the European capability.
But really the fundamental challenges of NATO are really deeper than you've addressed in those more formal remarks.
ANDERS FOGH RASMUSSEN (NATO Secretary General): Actually, you see that I have survived, and very much so, but I can assure you that it takes a lot of training to recover. Which leads me to the political conclusion that NATO demonstrated in the Libya operation: its strength demonstrated the principle of solidarity in practice.
Yes, you're right, that very successful operation couldn't have been carried out that successfully without a significant input of critical military capabilities from our American Ally.
NIK GOWING: So (SPEAKERS OVERLAP) electronic warfare, refuelling, planners.
ANDERS FOGH RASMUSSEN: Absolutely. But that's not breaking news. I mean, since NATO was established in 1949 we knew that the reason why we need the Alliance is that the Americans are capable of helping the Europeans when it comes to security. But the positive story from the Libya operation is that for the first time in the history of our Alliance European Allies and Canada provided the majority of assets for an operation. So that's actually a very, very positive example of how our Alliance has transformed and adapted to the new security challenges.
NIK GOWING: Let me encourage... I can't see everybody out there. It's quite dark. So if there's any chance of any more light and certainly for the Secretary General, can we get the microphones to people who'd like to come in on any questions. But before the microphone gets to you let me just press you. Here I've got, for example, a document, a series of pieces from the Centre for European Reform. Does NATO Have a Future? They threaten to push NATO into irrelevance in the future. And George Robertson, your predecessor, but two, the Alliance's credibility may be better served by discussing frankly its current financial and military difficulties and adjusting NATO's ambitions accordingly.
ANDERS FOGH RASMUSSEN: Actually, it's very interesting for me, this doom and gloom debate, taking into account that a number of countries are queuing up to become members, active members of our Alliance. I think it's a demonstration of the success of our Alliance that a number of countries would very much like to become members of our Alliance.
I have experienced, as Secretary General of NATO, that never in the history of NATO has NATO been so busy, operating in Afghanistan, in Kosovo, in Libya last year, conducting a counter-terrorism operation in the Mediterranean, a counter-piracy operation along the coast of Somalia. We are as busy as ever.
NIK GOWING: The problem is, there are a lot of skeptics out there, Secretary General, saying that systematically and in structures it's still under enormous pressure and it's going to get worse. And I think I'm probably reflecting a lot of the thinking of many of the experts here in the audience.
ANDERS FOGH RASMUSSEN: You will experience, if you do bike, that it makes you even stronger, that you are under pressure, that you have to go uphill. But the fact is that... and the fact is that NATO is as strong as ever, as active as ever, has modernized, has adapted, has transformed, is really a vivid Alliance.
NIK GOWING: Right. Let's get as many questions as possible. Keep them brief. Who's got the microphone first?
Congressman Turner have you got... where are you? Over here. Thank you. You've got the microphone.
MICHAEL TURNER (Member, U.S. House of Representatives): Thank you. Turn this on, or does it come on automatically? Great.
NIK GOWING: Let's keep our remarks quite short, because a large number of people would like to intervene.
MICHAEL TURNER: Thank you. Secretary General, I really appreciate the fact that you talked about countries that want to join NATO, as one of the evidences of NATO's vitality and its importance. One of the issues that we know is that NATO has been the path for emergent democracies to both move toward Europe and toward a relationship with the United States and it's been an important tool, to use your biking analogy, there are many nations out there who continue to peddle real fast, trying to get into NATO. And the concern that many have is that the upcoming Chicago Summit has been identified as not as an expansion, enlargement Summit, but yet there are many countries that are in the path of still seeking to join NATO.
Senator Luger and I have introduced companion bills in the Senate and the House calling on NATO to make very strong affirmative statements in the Chicago Summit, recognizing both the accomplishments and the path that aspiring nations are on that are in the process of joining NATO.
Now many say that joining NATO is a political process, but it ought not be an arbitrary process. What do you foresee coming out of the Chicago Summit that these countries can look to, especially countries like Georgia and Macedonia, who are making great strides?
NIK GOWING: Thank you.
ANDERS FOGH RASMUSSEN: Without anticipating final decisions on how we will organize the Chicago Summit I feel safe to assure you that you will see encouraging language in the communique and the declarations from the Summit, encouraging language that will reaffirm that NATO's door remains open.
Overall, the whole Summit will be a clear demonstration of connectivity and cooperative security, a strong demonstration of our partnerships with countries across the globe, including countries that aspire to become members of NATO.
So I don't think you will be disappointed when you see the outcome of the Summit. I have to say it will not be an enlargement Summit, but you will see events and language that clearly reaffirm that our door remains open.
HARLAN ULLMAN (Chairman, The Killowen Group): Can you hear me? I like your hand signals, Nik.
NIK GOWING: Identify yourself.
HARLAN ULLMAN: Of course. I'm Harlan Ullman. Secretary General, it's good to see you again. I'd like to follow up on the May Summit in Chicago, if I may?
Winston Churchill remarked that he disliked puddings because they lacked a theme. I wonder what themes or theme you think is going to run through Chicago and what are your expectations of what you hope the Summit achieves and what it does not achieve?
ANDERS FOGH RASMUSSEN: Actually, I think the overall theme will be a strengthened transatlantic relationship. Under that headline we will have specifics, we will adopt a defence package, a package of concrete initiatives that will strengthen our military capability in the future, strengthen the glue that binds our Alliance together, including through more multinational cooperation in the acquisition of necessary military capabilities. That will be one basket of initiatives.
Secondly, we will discuss partnerships in the wake of the Arab Spring. I think we should take the opportunity to enhance our partnerships with countries in the region. There may also be other partnership initiatives.
And finally, we will discuss Afghanistan. We will reaffirm our commitment to the Lisbon road map as to how we will gradually transfer lead responsibility for the security to the Afghans, and we will reaffirm that we stay committed to our mission in Afghanistan based on the principle 'in together, out together'.
So the overall message will be a strengthened transatlantic relationship.
HARLAN ULLMAN: Thank you.
ANDREW MICHTA (German Marshall Fund): Hello. Andrew Michta, GMF. Mr. Secretary General, a very brief question. In every crisis that NATO and the Allies in Europe have been in together afterwards we said we need more capabilities, we need more useable capabilities. How do we create the sense of urgency so that a credible argument can be made for the American side of the equation, that the Europeans understand the need to spend more on defence and to become more proactive, so that we do not have at every turn, beginning with the Balkans, and ending in Libya, the argument you, sir, articulated here as well, that an American role in this was absolutely critical to the mission? How do we get the politicians to muster the political will to speak directly to their public?
ANDERS FOGH RASMUSSEN: In Europe?
ANDREW MICHTA: In Europe, yes.
ANDERS FOGH RASMUSSEN: Well, again, I would point to the Libya operation as an excellent example. Despite the economic crisis, despite declining defence budgets in almost all European Allied countries, the Europeans stepped up to the plate.
NIK GOWING: Are they committing themselves to that? Definitely? With clarity? Are they committing themselves to that?
ANDERS FOGH RASMUSSEN: So such engagement as we saw in the Libya operation?
NIK GOWING: Well, and also to replace the assets, to find... to have the assets which the Americans don't want to provide in future?
ANDERS FOGH RASMUSSEN: I will revert to that. But again, use the Libya operation as an excellent example. Let me... you speak... how will politicians address their publics? Let me use my own country, Denmark, as an example.
Denmark decided to participate at the very sharp end of that operation right from the outset, without any caveats, delivering F-16s from the first day. Even before NATO took on responsibility for the operation. That decision was based on a very, very, very broad political majority, including political parties that in the past have been very skeptical about any military intervention. Not just being about NATO.
But this time they addressed their constituencies in a very proactive manner. They really engaged. They realized that the United Nations Security Council had taken an historic decision, based on the principle of responsibility to protect the civilian population in Libya. They used that to make the case convincingly and they succeeded, and the same goes for other countries as well.
Let me use another example. The day before the Swedish Parliament took the decision to join our Libya operation I met with the Foreign Policy Committee of the Swedish Parliament, and as you know, Sweden is not a NATO Ally, but a valued partner, and in the Swedish Parliament you will also meet some skepticism about NATO.
The argument I met, why a broad majority in the Swedish Parliament decided to join the operation was that NATO took on the responsibility for that operation; that it took place within a NATO framework, a tested and tried framework, with all the institutions necessary to also exercise political control.
So I use these examples to demonstrate that it is possible for the politicians to make the case, convincingly, and get public support for such a decision. Now...
NIK GOWING: But Secretary General, the issue of procurement and assets?
ANDERS FOGH RASMUSSEN: Now, to your question about assets. Again, a concrete example. Yesterday I met with the European Union. The European Union has initiated an air-to-air refuelling project which will address one of the shortfalls we identified during our Libya operation.
Overall we do have an air-to-air... a sufficient air-to-air refuelling capacity within NATO, but primarily delivered by the Americans. But the Europeans lack that capacity. This is the reason why the European Union has now decided, through the European Defence Agency, to focus on developing that capacity and probably, and I will encourage them to do so, that will be a significant European input to our defence packets in Chicago.
So I take that as a concrete European commitment to delivering critical capabilities in the future.
NIK GOWING: A concrete commitment, even with 20 member nations having to reduce their defence budgets. Can it be done?
ANDERS FOGH RASMUSSEN: It can be done through more multinational cooperation. It can't be done if we continue business as usual. If we go for purely national solutions many countries will not be able to afford to acquire these capabilities, but if we pool and share resources, if we help each other across borders, and go for multinational solutions, it's possible.
NIK GOWING: And we won't run out of weapons and ordinance, as we did during Libya? Many of the nations who were actively involved had to go looking for extra weaponry because they'd run out.
ANDERS FOGH RASMUSSEN: Yes, but actually that's very much about being an Alliance, that we help each other.
NIK GOWING: Okay. Right.
ANTON LA GUARDIA (European Union Correspondent, The Economist): Anton La Guardia of The Economist. I want to pick up in a sense following from Nik's point about procurement and your question of Smart Defence. I mean, in a sense it's a new word for an old idea which is pooling and sharing. This has been knocking about NATO corridors for a long time. It never quite seems to happen. Why is it going to happen now?
Secondly, if you really want to make this happen, does NATO need to take on a role similar, for example, to the European Commission, which is to say, okay, Allies, this is what you have to cut, this is what you cut, this is what you share, to have some kind of rational organization within NATO?
Take the case of Denmark, it's about to go through a... is it a 10 or 15 percent cut in defence spending in the coming years? It gave up submarine warfare. You were critical of that, actually, although perhaps today that might be seen as a smart rationalization of one's national resources.
NIK GOWING: Can I just build on that. In one commentary here, the efficiencies that Smart Defence stands to generate will be too small to compensate for the cuts in national defence budgets made by European governments since the economic crisis began.
ANDERS FOGH RASMUSSEN: Yes, let me first correct a misunderstanding. I was not against scrapping the submarines. Actually, it was my government who took that decision, so I was very supportive.
And it leads me to a very important point, speaking about Smart Defence, because you asked me why is it that we will succeed in more multinational cooperation now? Well, I have no illusions. It is first and foremost because of declining defence budgets and the economic austerity. But let me point to a very important aspect of this: this goes well beyond economic austerity and declining defence budgets, because the long-term trend is that the price, that the cost of advanced military equipment rises more rapidly than inflation and GDP.
So investments in the military will occupy an increasing part of our budgets if we don't find new ways to do business. So it's not just because of the economic crisis, it's a long-term challenge.
But the economic crisis is the driving force right now, but that's just a demonstration of the fact that you should never miss a good crisis to promote reforms that are necessary anyway. And it is actually my firm belief that we need more and strengthened multinational cooperation.
We will never reach the point as a European Union that we have a commission to take initiatives and being the driving force, because when it comes to defence and security nations will protect their national sovereignty, but actually we do have within NATO what we call a defence planning process that very much addresses what you asked for, that we try to coordinate how individual Allies organize their military so that overall we provide the right mix of military capabilities.
But I have to say, and that's the reality in today's world, it is more or less a voluntary process. Nations have not handed over sovereignty to NATO, as they have done to the European Commission, and realistically I don't think they will.
NIK GOWING: Secretary General, we have about seven minutes to run, so I want to get many more questions in, if possible. Steven Erlanger at the back, you've got it, and I'm going to bring the microphone forward here, and over here, so go ahead, Steven. Can you keep it brief and then we'll pass the microphone forward.
STEVEN ERLANGER (Paris Bureau Chief, The New York Times): I will. Mr. Secretary General, from the New York Times. Just very quickly, Colin Powell used to say if you break it you own it. NATO's pretty good at breaking it. It broke it slowly but it did manage to break it in Libya, but we seem to have left the shards in the desert. Does NATO not have any responsibility for helping Libya to construct a real government that's coherent? Isn't this part of the responsibility to protect? Thank you.
NIK GOWING: Do you want to answer that now, quickly, and move the microphone forward to Michael Ignatieff, please.
ANDERS FOGH RASMUSSEN: Yes, we had the responsibility to fulfil the UN mandate to protect the civilian population and we did so and we did so successfully. When it comes to the post-conflict phase I think it's primarily a responsibility for the United Nations, helped by international organizations, to assist the new authorities in Libya.
We have stated that if requested from the Libyan authorities we stand ready to help where we have some added value and some expertise within reforming their security and defence sector. So in that respect we are ready, if requested.
XENIA DORMANDY (Senior Fellow, Chatham House): Xenia Dormandy Chatham House. Thank you for being here. I'd like to move you into a longer time horizon, in fact, where you started with your remarks. The Libya operation had a NATO umbrella, but as you rightly said, there were members involved in that operation that weren't part of NATO. Afghanistan, again, it's a NATO, in some respects, operation, but has lots of members that aren't part of NATO.
It seems to me that we're moving towards a structure that maybe has a NATO umbrella, but is more of an ad hoc coalition of members acting. Is that the direction that NATO might go in a concrete way, or is NATO going to continue to conduct such operations in an implicit way, and what are the implications of that in terms of, for example, former Defense Secretary Gates' comments about everybody has to step up and everybody has to do the same thing, because there's clearly a conflict there.
NIK GOWING: Is that desirable, or a matter of fact now?
ANDERS FOGH RASMUSSEN: It's desirable to conduct such security operations in partnership with countries across the globe. It's desirable. It's also necessary.
And let me stress, our Afghanistan operation is not a coalition of the willing. The core is NATO Command and Control, and that's actually why so many partners have joined our operation, that they know that NATO is capable to provide a clear Command and Control system in which they have confidence. In our Council we can exercise political control and the management, and they appreciate that.
So that's why such an operation is not similar to a coalition of the willing. A coalition of the willing doesn't have these fixed structures. So NATO is the core of such operations, but you will see such operations conducted in the future, in partnership with counties across the globe. I really do believe that will be the model for future operations, as we saw it in Libya, as we see it right now in Kosovo.
NIK GOWING: Secretary General, I'm determined to get a voice from Canada, and from Russia.
MICHAEL IGNATIEFF (Senior Resident, University of Toronto): Secretary General, Michael Ignatieff from the University of Toronto. It follows on Steven Erlanger's question. You're proud of the Libyan operation as a military success, how then do you explain the extent, depth and ferocity of the buyer's remorse on the Security Council? Because it's making it very difficult to get collective action on Syria.
ANDERS FOGH RASMUSSEN: Yes, actually, that's also an interesting paradox, that after the successful Libya operation we are now in the situation that I can't meet media without getting the question, when will NATO intervene in Syria.
NIK GOWING: This has come from a politician and now an academic again. Not from the media.
ANDERS FOGH RASMUSSEN: No no, but it's okay. But I just point to the fact that it's a testament to the success of our Alliance that people are now wondering why we don't stand ready to intervene in Syria or wherever. We have no intention to intervene in Syria, because it's quite another case than Libya. And it would be too lengthy to elaborate on that, so let me just clearly state that I regret strongly that the international community, embodied in the UN Security Council, has not managed to reach an agreement that could send a very strong message to the leadership in Damascus. I really believe that the lack of unity in the UN Security Council has sent a very unfortunate message to the leadership in Damascus, so they concluded that they could continue their crackdowns on the civilian population.
But we operated in Libya because we had a UN mandate and strong support from countries in the region. None of these conditions are fulfilled when it comes to Syria.
NIK GOWING: Secretary General, this time last year we had a very spirited debate about exactly that, about laying down those markers very clearly to Damascus in this room. It didn't get very far at that point.
KONSTANTIN EGGERT (Commentator and Host, Kommersant FM Radio): Secretary General, Konstantin Eggert from Kommersant Publishing House in Moscow. President Medvedev today issued a series of threats regarding missile defence, deploying nuclear weapons in Kaliningrad, withdrawing from START Treaty. Minister Lavrov told me on Monday that on the other hand NATO-Russia, NATO-US relations will never be hostage to the missile defence issue. Who should I believe?
And following up on that, isn't the problem is that there is no common threat assessment and this is essentially a political and psychological question rather than counting warheads and measuring distances?
Thank you very much.
NIK GOWING: And Secretary General, you talked about a commitment to good and stable relations from President-elect Putin. Does that message from Moscow fit in with the kind of message you yourself got from President-elect Putin?
ANDERS FOGH RASMUSSEN: Yeah, if I base myself on facts on the ground, on what is actually happening in the NATO-Russian relationship it's a fact that our discussions on missile defence haven't made a negative impact on cooperation in a number of other areas.
Actually, we have seen steady progress in our cooperation in a number of areas, across the board, from Afghanistan where the Russians have delivered a valuable transit arrangement, to counter-terrorism, counter-narcotics, count-piracy, just to mention some of the practical areas in which we have enhanced our cooperation with Russia.
So the fact is, we have disputes when it comes to missile defence, but these disputes have not blocked progress in other areas.
I... well, just to relate it to our upcoming Summit in Chicago, probably and primarily because of a very busy domestic political calendar in Russia, we won't have a NATO-Russia Summit meeting in Chicago, but we will have a NATO-Russia Foreign Ministers meeting next month on the 19th of April. We will meet in this very town. And we will discuss progress in our cooperation across the board, and also how we could advance cooperation on missile defence.
NIK GOWING: Secretary General, thank you very much. I know there's six or seven people who want to come in, but we've got to talk about Iran and we've overrun our time. So I begged a few more minutes as I was being asked to wind up. So thank you very much, Secretary General.
I have to ask you before you go, is there any plan for an Alliance bike ride in Chicago?
ANDERS FOGH RASMUSSEN: Not to my knowledge. (Laughs).
NIK GOWING: No photo opportunity?
ANDERS FOGH RASMUSSEN: No.
NIK GOWING: Thank you very much, indeed, Secretary General.
CRAIG KENNEDY: And thank you, Nik. Secretary General, that was really a terrific conversation.


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Date(s) - Wednesday, October 2, 2024 - Thursday, October 3, 2024
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Interior Color: Black Onyx
Drivetrain: 4X4
Vehicle Info:
Stock: 5643F
Mileage: 32
Trim: SRW Platinum
Exterior Color: Rapid Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat
Interior Color: Black Onyx
Drivetrain: 4X4
All new Lakeland Ford, Hyundai and Genesis vehicles include a Nationwide Lifetime Warranty with Unlimited Miles for an Unlimited Time at no additional cost plus one year free factory scheduled maintenance. All Ford A, D, X & Z Plan Customers, Electric vehicles, Specialty vehicles, Commercial, Fleet, Super Duty or vehicles purchased in the name of a business are not eligible for lifetime warranty or free maintenance. Diesel vehicles not eligible for free maintenance. Although every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained on this site, absolute accuracy cannot be guaranteed. This site, and all information and materials appearing on it, are presented to the user "as is" without warranty of any kind, either express or implied. All prices are after all factory rebates and do not include taxes, tag, title, license, $998 dealer fee, $175 electronic filing fee and dealer installed accessories. All factory rebates and incentives assigned to dealer including owner loyalty, military, student, competitive and special incentives. Eligibility may require financing through Ford Motor Credit, Hyundai Motor Finance or Genesis Motor Finance. Offers cannot be combined. With this price you will receive a Nationwide Lifetime Warranty and 1 (one) year FREE factory scheduled maintenance, exterior environmental protection plus nitrogen for life, wheel lip moldings, and door edge guards. Equipment and factory certification varies per model; ask sales representative for details. All vehicles subject to prior sale. All prices are for retail customers only - no dealers or locators please. All offers are mutually exclusive; see dealer for complete details. Actual MPG rating will vary with options, driving conditions, habits and vehicle condition. Photos for illustration purposes only and may not represent actual vehicle. Dealer is not responsible for typographical errors. *Prices are plus tax, tag, title, Certification fees(If vehicle is eligible), Reconditioning Cost, additional keys, accessories, manuals and dealer fee of $998, with approved credit.* Have consultant verify equipment listed for accuracy. Current prices supersede any prior sale or listing. No two offers can be combined. Dealer not responsible for posting of typographical errors. Pre-Owned vehicles are first come first serve basis, no deposits to hold are accepted.
While we make every effort to ensure the data listed here is correct, there may be instances where some of the pricing, options or vehicle features may be listed incorrectly as we get data from multiple sources. Please confirm the pricing, details and options of any vehicle with the dealer to ensure its accuracy. Please confirm the details of any vehicle (such as what factory rebates you may or may not qualify) with the dealer to ensure accuracy. Fleet vehicles not for public sale. Dealer is not liable for data, information, content or images (including photos and graphics), that is listed incorrectly.
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Michigan State University
This course is a brief introduction to the elements of music theory for those with little or no music theory experience. We will explore pitch, rhythm, meter, notation, scales, keys, key signatures, meter signatures, triads, seventh chords, and basic harmony. If you listen to music or play music by ear, and you want to know more about how music is organized and notated, this course is for you.
By the end of the course, you should know all major and minor keys, how to read and write in treble and bass clef using standard meters and rhythmic values, and how to notate and harmonize a simple melody. This course can serve as a stand-alone basic music theory course, or it can be a springboard to more advanced theory and composition courses.
Your instructor is Bruce Taggart, Associate Professor of Music Theory at Michigan State University, in the College of Music, where he has taught undergraduate and graduate music theory since 1996.
Specific details
Category of Education
Arts and Humanities


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Here's your opportunity to acquire the Best Deal Ever on reference books about Fenton Glass! We have complete sets of six paperback books that cover the history of the Fenton Art Glass Company from 1905 to 1999/2002 and illustrate our products in great color photos. Just $79 (U.S.) for the six-book set, complete with various price guides and shipped to you postpaid via U. S. Postal Service Priority Mail!
These books were prepared with the full cooperation of Fenton family members, so you'll read some great stories and learn a lot about Fenton glass. All of these books are in "as new" condition with the contents bright and shiny. Even if you already own one or more of these books, this is a great opportunity to acquire additional copies that are just as fresh as the day they were printed! These books are included in the six-book set:Fenton Glass: The First 25 Years (William Heacock, covers 1905-32) originally $29.95. This book covers the founding of the company to early catalog reprints and the Depression Years. Included is a Fenton Glass Carnival Pattern Guide and a listing of the colors Fenton made in Carnival glass. Also covered: Chocolate Glass, Fenton Opalescent, Animals, Karnak Red Art Glass, Stretch Glass, and more! The book was authored by the late William Heacock, a featured columnist for The Antique Trader Weekly and a contributing editor of the Glass Collector's Digest.
Fenton Glass: The Second 25 Years (Heacock, covers 1930-55), originally $29.95. Topics covered include the Depression years, catalog reprints, major Fenton product lines and the leadership change in 1948. Colors illustrated include: Mandarin Red and Flame; Mongolian Green; Periwinkle Blue; Ebony; Jade Green; Chinese Yellow; Ruby; Royal Blue; Ming and San Toy; Rose; Amber; Satin Poinsettia and Silverton; and Opalescent colors.
Fenton Glass: The Third 25 Years (Heacock, Edited by Frank M. Fenton and James Measell, covers 1956-80) originally $29.95. This book provides the Fenton Art Glass Company company history from 1956 through 1980, catalog reprints, ware numbers, and color codes. The book illustrates many patterns and items most likely to be encountered by today's Fenton collectors as well as some unusual pieces. Among the patterns illustrated are: Cactus, Coin Dot, Hobnail, Thumbprint, and Rose. Colors shown in this book include: Opalescent glass in Cranberry, Plum and Topaz; Wild Rose and Opaque Blue; Overlay and Opaque colors; Goldenrod; Jamestown Blue; Silver Jamestown; Blue Marble; Burmese; Vasa Murrhina; Colonial Pink; and Jonquil Yellow. Also illustrated are Bicentennial Glass and Robert Barber Art Glass pieces.Fenton Glass: The 1980s Decade (Edited by James Measell) originally $34.95. Chapters in this book trace the changes and developments in both the people and the products of the Fenton Art Glass Company throughout the 1980s. Other elements of the Fenton story, ranging from collectible glass (Connoisseur Collection and Mother's Day and Christmas editions) and special products to Fenton's diversification ventures (QVC), are the focus in later chapters of the book.Fenton Glass: The 1990s Decade (Measell) originally $34.95. The 1990s Decade covers the following topics: Company Growth 1990-1999; The Fenton line; Historic Collection colors; Connoisseur Collection; Family Signature Series; Easter and Christmas Limited Editions; Carnival Glass; Special Products; and Fenton and QVC. Colors covered include Cranberry, Mulberry, Sea Mist Green, Jade Opaline, Petal Pink, Twilight Blue, Milk Glass, Plum, Rose Pearl, Ocean Blue, Fuschia, Rose Magnolia, Misty Blue, Aquamarine, Dusty Rose, and more.
Fenton Glass: Especially for QVC (Measell covers 1988-2002) originally $36.95. This book catalogs the history of glass produced exclusively for QVC, from the first show in spring of 1988 through Bill Fenton's retirement show and the introduction of the 2002 Charleton Collection, through August 2002. More than 1350 items are shown. Authored by James Measell.


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Hair Life: Can Last about 2 year or more if proper care
Item type: Peruvian Hair, Brazilian Hair,Malaysian Hair, Indian Hair all available
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a.Full Refund if you don't receive your order
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c.15 Days no reason return is available for unused items,accept return and replace for reasons such as
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if you have any problems with hair,please contact us before you leave feedback,we would offer you the
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3,after clean the shampoo, put some hair conditioner on the hair, keep 5minutes,use the comb comb the hair.
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I made the risotto as suggested in the book, but at the end I added about seven hatch chiles that had been roasted, peeled of the charred outer layer, seeded, and chopped. I also added fresh corn kernels cut from two small ears of corn, and a couple tablespoons of chopped cilantro. Then, instead of using grated parmigiano, I grated a dry jack cheese and stirred it into the risotto. The finished risotto was left to cool and was then refrigerated overnight. There are a few steps to completing this hors d'oeuvre, but each of them can be spaced out and tackled when you're ready. Once the risotto had completely chilled in the refrigerator, it was ready for forming into balls. For each, one tablespoon of risotto was formed into a cup shape into which a small cube of queso oaxaca was placed. Then, the risotto was gathered around the cheese cube and rolled into a ball. Once all the balls were formed and placed on a parchment-lined baking sheet, they were refrigerated overnight. Next, the risotto balls were breaded with flour, then egg, then cornmeal. At that point, they could have been refrigerated again until ready for frying. They were briefly fried for two minutes or so in a saucepan with a few inches of hot oil.
The cornmeal made a nice crunchy surface which contrasted well with the oozing center. Sweet, fresh corn and smoky, roasted hatch chiles sidled up comfortably to the queso oaxaca. The flavor combination here was a good one, and I think the lasagna version will be just as good when I can serve it at home straight from the oven.


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Mary Fallin on Welfare & PovertyRepublican | |
I have faith in our young people. I see their hopes and dreams in the eyes of my own two children, and I want to work to make sure they have every opportunity to succeed.
Proponent's argument to vote Yes:Sen. BARBARA MIKULSKI (D, MD): [In developing national service over many years] we were not in the business of creating another new social program. What we were in the business of was creating a new social invention. What do I mean by that? In our country, we are known for our technological inventions. But also often overlooked, and sometimes undervalued, is our social inventions.
We created national service to let young people find opportunity to be of service and also to make an important contribution. But not all was rosy. In 2003, when I was the ranking member on the appropriations subcommittee funding national service, they created a debacle. One of their most colossal errors was that they enrolled over 20,000 volunteers and could not afford to pay for it. That is how sloppy they were in their accounting. I called them the "Enron of nonprofits."
And they worked on it. But all that is history. We are going to expand AmeriCorps activity into specialized corps. One, an education corps; another, a health futures corps; another, a veterans corps; and another called opportunity corps. These are not outside of AmeriCorps. They will be subsets because we find this is where compelling human need is and at the same time offers great opportunity for volunteers to do it.
Opponent's argument to vote No:No senators spoke against the amendment.


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Product Details:
Payment & Shipping Terms:
Filament Material: | PP/Nylon/Stainless Steel | Base Material: | PP Or Galvanized Steel |
Filament Color: | Silver, Customized | Inner Diameter: | 76mm-500mm |
Service: | OEM/ODM | HS Code: | 9603509190 |
Pin: | 8mm | Application: | Dust Removal/Clean Road &street |
High Light: | Clean Snow Road Sweeper Brush,Road Sweeper Brush With Shaft,PP Base Snow Sweeper Brush |
Road Sweeper Brush With Shaft Clean Snow
Product Feature
Product Parameters
Technical Parameters
Packaging & Delivery
Packaging Details:Standard Export Carton Box, 25PCS/CTN, Customerized
Port:Shanghai and Ningbo
Lead Time:About 20-25 days after payment
Why choose us?
1. We offer top quality products & best price & best service
2. All products made by advanced equipments imported from German
3. Fast delivery leadtime
4. We have skilled workers & technicians and strict quality assurance team
5. We are the professional brushes manufacturer and offer direct sales
6. Samples available and Customization as per request and OEM products allowed
7. We offer the lowest and more competitive price, as we make all procedure production by our own factory from material - semi - finish finally...
8. We are highly responsible to every customer of ours, and always try best to let them satisfied
Q1. What is your terms of payment?
Generally,30% T/T in advance & 70% T/T upon shipment notice including copy of B/L
Q2. What is your terms of delivery?
Normaly, we accept EXW, FOB, CFR, CIF, LC at sight.
Q3. How about your delivery time?
Generally, it will take 20 to 25 days after receiving your advance payment. The specific delivery time depends
on the items and the quantity of your order.
Q4. Can you produce according to the samples?
Yes, we can produce by your samples or technical drawings. We can build the molds and fixtures.
Q5:Can you offer the samples and how much cost for the samples?
Generally, Sample is free,and we ask the freight collected.
Q6. Can you accept OEM ?
Yes, OEM are welcome.
Contact Person: JACK FAN
Tel: +86-133-4929-5658
Fax: 86-551-62992423


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California Real Estate, CA Luxury
Located just south of the Angeles National Forest, the Pasadena region is known for the small town feel of its neighborhoods as well as its numerous gardens and museums. With houses ranging up to the tens of millions, there are also some areas sporting homes below one million, making Pasadena real estate a vibrant cross-section of Los Angeles residents.
Its mix use development offers an eclectic range of shops and lofts in some districts on the south end as well as sleepy, tree lined neighborhoods perfect for family living. Further south, one will find the city of Alhambra, known across the region for its fine school districts, friendly family oriented atmosphere and healthy mix of ethnicities. To the northern end of Pasadena lies Altadena, offering hillside homes overlooking the greater Los Angeles area. And, of course, just north of the luxurious homes of the La Canada area you will find the entrance to the Angeles National Forest itself, offering day and weekend trips to escape city life for local Pasadena residents wishing an excursion into nature.
With such a wide range of offerings, one can see the wealth of possibilities Pasadena real estate has to offer. But seeing is believing - Sotheby's International Realty invites you to experience Pasadena first hand. World class agents affiliated with the Pasadena office will take you on a tour of the greater Pasadena area to impart an intimate knowledge of the different areas and what is has to offer to provide you with not just a house, but a home.
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