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- Part of Collection:
- Subjects:Reading, Language Arts, Classroom Management, Teacher Tips and Strategies
Planning a Productive Summer for You and Your Students
- Grades: PreK–K, 1–2, 3–5, 6–8, 9–12
As a teacher, I am fully aware of the summer reading decline that affects so many students. In his article "Bridging the Summer Reading Gap," Richard Allington states, "Regardless of other activities, the best predictor of summer loss or summer gain is whether or not a child reads during the summer." In this post I will share the ways I encourage my students to reflect on the year's reading achievements and then to use their reflections as motivation to continue reading over the summer.
But this post is not just about students. Teachers need motivation too! Every year there are things that I want to change in my classroom or ways that I want to alter my curriculum. The summer is the perfect time to reenergize and make concrete plans for next year. In this post I will offer specific tips and suggestions for making this your most productive summer yet!
Numbers 1–4 of this month's top ten list are ideas for helping your students have a productive summer while numbers 5–10 are suggestions for you.
1. Help Your Students Reflect on a Year of Reading
Before students make plans for summer reading, it is important that they first reflect thoughtfully on the reading they have done in your classroom. Last year I wrote a post, "Wrapping Up Reading Workshop: Reflecting Back & Making Summer Reading Plans," about how my students use their Reader's Notebook to look back on a year's worth of reading. They love to see the progress they have made, and they use their reading reflections to make specific plans for summer reading. In the post, I created a "Summer Reading Booklet" that your students can use to make plans for summer reading.
2. Create (Cereal) Book Boxes for Summer Reading
If you are like me, you have permanent book boxes in your classroom that students reuse each year. Students grow attached to their book boxes, and it becomes second nature for them to regularly fill their boxes with favorite books, to read books and record them in their reading logs, and to then exchange the books for new ones from the classroom library. My teaching partner and I think that having their own book boxes at home is the best way to make the school-to-home reading transition over the summer successful.
We ask students to bring a large cereal box to school at the end of the year. They cut the top and sides off, cover it with construction paper, and then use photos or computer clip art to decorate their book box. Having a book box at home allows students to easily transport their books when taking summer vacations or long trips in the car. Some of my students even take their book box to the local library when checking out new books.
We also found inexpensive mini notebooks that we give to each student to keep in their book box. We encourage them to use one section of the notebook to record the title and author of the books they read during the summer and another section to write about the books. Students are asked to bring their reading journal back to school in the fall. I create a special certificate for students who write in their journal over the summer, and I write a personal note in the journal to express my admiration for their hard work.
3. Plan a Class Book Swap
Once your students have created their book boxes, they will need books with which to fill it up. In my classroom, each student can bring up to five gently used chapter books to exchange. The number of books a student brings from home is the number of new books he or she may take during the swap. I always order some inexpensive books from Scholastic Book Clubs using my bonus points so there are plenty of options.
Students can add their new books to their book box and take them home to read during the summer. You could even plan a "Read in the Park" get-together where you meet your students at a nearby park for lunch and have them swap books again. Students love to see their teachers during the summer, and it is a great time for the students to bring their summer reading journals and share their progress.
4. Register Your Students for Scholastic's Summer Reading Challenge
The Scholastic Summer Challenge is a free reading program dedicated to stopping the "summer slide." Now in its fifth year, the Summer Challenge invites kids to log the minutes they spend reading as they "Read for the World Record." The 20 schools with the most minutes logged will be recognized in the 2012 Scholastic Book of World Records. Kids can participate in weekly challenges, earn digital rewards, enter sweepstakes to win fabulous prizes, find great books to read, and more.
Students can also join reading programs at their local library and bookstores. Summer reading challenges organized by popular bookstore chains include Barnes and Noble's Imagination's Destination and Borders' Kids Reading Challenge.
5. Revamp Your Classroom Library
I get more questions about my classroom library than about any other part of my classroom. I absolutely believe that a successful Reading Workshop would not be possible without an organized, ample classroom library. However, the process of collecting books, leveling the books, organizing books by genre, and labeling book baskets to make books easy to find is a huge undertaking. My classroom library was "born" during the summer many years ago. Whenever I had free time, I would look up book levels on my computer, classify them by genre, add labels, and put them in organized baskets. I actually worked in my basement at home and took books and baskets to my classroom as I finished. You can read my classroom library post from last year, "A Virtual Peek Into My Classroom Library," to learn more about how it is organized and used by students. My Top Teaching colleagues Angela Bunyi and Megan Power have also written great posts about classroom libraries: Angela about organizing an intermediate classroom library, and Megan Power about having a book leveling party.
6. Be a Reader!
Become Familiar With New Children's Books This Summer
Are you stuck in a rut when it comes to books you use in your classroom? Do you have your "go-to" favorites that you read aloud each year because you know them so well and love them so much? I do! However, I am making a goal for myself to expand my read-aloud repertoire next school year. I want to take time this summer to become familiar with some of the MANY great children's books published in the past few years.
Some great resources to help you choose new children's books include the 2010 Newbery and Caldecott winners and the 2011 Newbery and Caldecott winners. My Top Teaching colleague Danielle Mahoney has created some awesome booklists for many months of the school year, including October, November, December, January, March, and April.
Set Professional Reading Goals
While it is important to read children's books so that you are providing your students with quality literature, I find it equally important to read professional books to grow my teaching expertise. So much of what I know comes from my teaching mentors. Many of those mentors do not know me, but I have read their books from cover to cover, reread their books again, and still refer to many of them to this day. Since it can be hard to find time to read and process professional books about teaching in the middle of a busy school year, I often dedicate time during the summer for professional reading. Check out some of my all-time favorite professional books, as well as some great book recommendations from teachers who read Scholastic's Top Teaching blog. What professional books have helped shape your teaching? Please share them in the comment section below. I am always looking for great texts to improve my teaching!
7. Plan Your Classroom Theme for Next School Year
Many teachers ask questions about my school-year themes. They want to know how I come up with a new theme each year, where I find the time to execute the thematic classroom decor, and how I incorporate the theme into classroom routines and daily happenings. Well, it doesn't happen in a day! I start thinking about my theme for the next school year before the current school year is even over. In fact, my current students love giving me ideas for new themes and brainstorming names and slogans for my future classroom. I then use the summer to continue thinking about the theme and begin making plans for classroom implementation. I keep my eyes open for sales at party stores, and I peruse the Internet to find ideas related to the theme. By the time school starts, my theme is in full effect, and my thematic classroom is ready to welcome my excited students. You can check out the theme section of my classroom Web site to read more about the themes I have used in past years. You will find many photos, downloadable templates, printables, etc.
8. Execute an Extreme Classroom Makeover!
Every year there are things in my classroom that I want to change. However, the stack of papers I still need to grade, the standardized testing that looms, the weekly lesson planning, the new SMART Board lessons I must create, and daily happenings in my classroom often take precedence over large-scale organizational measures. For that reason, I think of each new school year as a blank slate. No matter how many years I teach, I set a personal goal each school year to become more organized and to make my classroom design most supportive of my teaching and beneficial to student learning. When executing large-scale home renovations, many families actually move out of their homes while the work is being done. Since my students "move out" during the summer, it is really the only time when I can clean out, clean up, and fix up the room.
Check out my extreme classroom makeover video that I created at the beginning of the school year.
I get some of my best ideas from looking at other teachers' classrooms. For some ideas about classroom design, check out my 2009 classroom tour and view photos of my current classroom. For awesome classroom organization tips, read Angela Bunyi's post "Getting Organized for Academic Success: Tackling the Paperwork Trail." Books like the Scholastic professional books below, available at the Scholastic Teacher Store, provide photos of creative ways teachers effectively organize and manage students in different classrooms and at different grade levels.
9. Check Out Great Classroom Web Sites
While there are a ton of great "teacher resource" Web sites that provide teachers with printables, lesson plans, books, etc., my favorite Web sites are those created and maintained by practicing teachers. Many of you are familiar with my classroom Web site, but have you visited the classrooms below?
Mr. Coley: This 5th grade teacher is very high tech, and so are his students! His class keeps a daily blog and a Room 34 Book Blog as well. They also have their own podcast, called Coleycast. Recorded by students, each broadcast highlights exciting things they are doing and learning about in their classroom. There are links and lesson ideas for all subject areas. This a "must-visit" site!
Mrs. Renz: This 4th grade teacher has an extensive teacher resource section where you will find links to all of her favorite Web sites for many subject areas and her favorite online teacher tools. She also provides lists of Web sites with great SMART Board files and literacy resources. Perhaps the most fun is looking at her "Student Projects" section with photos and ideas from this school year and previous ones.
Laura Candler: This teacher has been teaching for 29 years and continues to maintain an amazingly comprehensive Web site with teaching resources geared toward the upper grades. You will find tons of free printables in her online file cabinet for all subject areas. She also has a Teaching Strategies section where you can watch Webinars related to Reading and Writing Workshop, math centers, cooperative learning, and classroom management. You must check it out for yourself!
Mrs. Meacham: This 1st grade teacher calls her Web site "Classroom Snapshots." The homepage is an alphabetical index that includes a variety of resources like unit plans for all subject areas, virtual classroom tours from current and previous years, tons of SMART Board files, useful printables, and much more. If you are a K–2 teacher, this Web site is worth your time.
Mrs. Gold: This 3rd grade teacher maintains a great classroom Web site with lots of teacher resources and a very comprehensive "Outstanding Classroom Web Site" list organized by grade level.
Victoria Jasztal: This former Scholastic online mentor also has an awesome classroom Web site. She has tons of resources for Reading and Writing Workshop as well as math investigations and much more. She also provides another fantastic list of classroom Web sites.
10. Spend Quality Time With Your Family
Of course I will use my summer to plan and prepare for next school year. However, what I cherish most about summer is the uninterrupted, quality time I get to spend with my family. Although I wrote a post last year about balancing motherhood and teaching, it is not always easy during the busy school year. However, the summer is a different story. We already have lots of family trips planned, and I look so forward to days filled with play dates, picnics, swimming, trips to Dairy Queen, and evening walks to the park. There is nothing more "productive" than the time you spend with your family! So, take lots of time this summer to relax and enjoy being with your friends and family. That is my #1 goal for myself!
Happy summer to all! Thanks for reading my blog this year!
Comments (68)
Erin (comment #14),
It is always exciting to hear from "international" readers of my blog! I'm glad that you have found my posts to be useful in New Zealand! Have a great school year!
Liz (comment #13),
That is very cool that you are translating my genre posters to Spanish! We rarely have Spanish speaking students at my school, but I know that there are many teachers who would be interested in them! I'll be in touch!
Hi Beth, I have used your website so much and appreciate all the time you put into it. My school has used Accelerated Reader for the past years as a way to give students a reading goal and test their comprehension. However, due to budget cuts this is being taken away. I was just curious how you monitor their independent reading. I was thinking about having a goal of how many books to read each quarter, and then they could choose from a list of projects to share about their book. Any help would be great!
I love ideas #2 for creating book boxes for summer reading! I took the idea and made some adjustments. For the end of the year, my school doesn't get out until June 24th, I'm having my students create Summer Book Bags. They are going to decorate a blank canvas bag with handles on it and when they exchange with their classmates they can take them home in their bag. It's also great for them to use for trips to the library during the summer...hopefully an encouragement for them to read. I really do like the idea of having students create their own book boxes. Next year, I'm going to buy cardboard magazine files (you can find them cheap at IKEA or other places) and have the students create their own boxes at the beginning of the year. Then, at the end of the year they can take them home as a momento of Reading Workshop!
Beth, thanks for always sharing! I always appreciate your ideas...they are very inspiring! Have a restful summer! :) -Sarah in Hong Kong
I have been a fan of your blog for a few years now. Always looking for something on the creative side to engage students and creating the ideal environment for learning. Although it is not the end of my school year (in New Zealand we are only in our second out of four terms) I look forward to implementing some of your awesome ideas. Kind regards and enjoy your holidays with your family:)
Hi Beth, I LOVE the genre and book labels. I started translating them to Spanish and wanted to know if you are interested in this material? Would love to discuss further. Email me. Thanks Liz
Suzanne (commment #9),
If you are a primary teacher, "Growing Readers" by Kathy Collins is a great book for you. Also, Lucy Calkins recently came out with Reading Workshop Units of Study that will provide you with a very detailed plan for launching reading workshop and teaching meaningful units of study throughout the year. You can check out her units of study here: http://www.unitsofstudy.com/teachingReading/default.asp
Since her books are not cheap, the following website will provide you with some free units of study for reading workshop at all grade levels. Check it out: http://curriculum.dpsk12.org/lang_literacy_cultural/literacy/elem_lit/curric_instruc_assess/planning_guides/index.shtml
I hope this helps!!
Jada (comment #8),
Thanks for your book recommendation. I have heard good things about "The Book Whisperer" but have not yet it myself. Perhaps I will add it to my summer reading list.
Thanks for reading and commenting on my blog this year! Have a wonderful summer!
Jennifer (comment #7),
I'm so glad my word study and classroom economy posts have been beneficial to your teaching! Thanks for reading my blog this year! Enjoy your summer!
I'm planning on starting Reader's Workshop next year!! I bought Around the Reading Workshop in 180 days and have read it. I still would like to read a more detailed professional development book this summer on it, one focused on launching and practical mini lessons. Funds are tight...do you have one that would get me the most for my $? Little by little :) Thanks for all your work this year. You are absolutely amazing!
Have you read the Book Whisperer? It's a good one...I just want you to know that I consider your posts professional development! Thanks for all you do for children and colleagues alike! Happy Summer!!!
A friend introduced me to your site and it has made me a better teacher. Most recently I have implemented money and Word Study into my classroom. The results have been excellent! Thank you for being an amazing resource to teachers!
Erika (comment #3),
I love hearing from new teachers, especially those who are in their first year! I remember how hard the first year is, and I am so glad that my resources have been helpful to you!
Marlene (comment #2),
I'm sure your students will love creating the cereal book boxes and doing a book swap with their classmates! Thanks for the book recommendation! I will be sure to check out "No More, I'm Done."
Have a great summer!
Deb James (comment #1),
Good luck next year! I'm sure your new students will be lucky to have you as their teacher! Thanks for reading my blog!
I cannot thank you enough for your amazing websites, blog posts, etc. You have made my life as a 1st year teacher sooo much easier! I can't wait to become even better next year as I implement some of your ideas again! I am extremely grateful!
Thanks for all these wonderful ideas! I really love the cereal book boxes and book swap ideas and will be planning that for my class. I also take some of my summer to read professional books. One that I really liked this year was No More I'm Done which is a writer's workshop book.
Thank you, Beth, for all your hard work for us on top of all you do for your students! I am so excited for next year, thanks to you. I am not teaching this year due to a job transfer for my husband but will be back with bells on next year! I am going to be the best teacher ever! :) I hope you have a great summer and I really look forward to your posts next year! Thank you!!!


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20 inch deck
This is actually a very good suggestion that should be considered. You have a very interesting product, but unfortunately Blackstone is a bit ahead of you so now you need to set yourself apart from them. A 20" deck would be an amazing feature for many people.
Sorry Adam, I just assumed you were designing to sell based on the professionalism of this thread. I am impressed with your initiative and progress, can't wait to see some pies made with the new design.
Adam, that looks fantastic. My favorite feature is the adjustable location of the burner.
Good for you Adam. Love the modeling and innovation.I did some water/steam experiments in a pizza oven years ago (search if interested), and the results on pizza were underwhelming. Steam use in bread baking is common, and I was hoping that applying steam to the rim of pizza would result in expansion bigger than a garden hose. It didn't work for me on pizza.Dave
The adjustable burner concept is creative, but why not simply use two burners that you could adjust independently to maximize the heat balance with a minimum of effort? It also might make sense to have a low pressure burner under the deck and a high pressure burner in the back?
With the current design, will you have to slide the burner back and forth when baking bread? Is it going to be a problem when you boil out all the water?Can you not bake bread in your kitchen oven?
IMO the difference between baking bread and pizza outside is highly dependent on the efficiency of the oven. You're probably going to waste a lot of propane making bread due to pre-heat times & 30 minute+ bake times and an uninsulated oven. When I was making beer using a similar burner, I'd probably get 4-6 hours of total burn per tank of propane. Totally worth it for 2 cases of beer, but a few loaves of bread? Probably not. Pizza? For sure.
Adam, I do a fair amount of bread baking, and think you are wasting time and effort on the height adjustment and the steam. Turning to the steam, do a youtube video of the steam injection in a baking oven - you will see it is a serious amount of steam - and they inject it several times in a few minutes. I don't think your setup will in any way replicate that, and in fact it will mostly seep out of the oven since it is hardly sealed. Second, there is no real benefit to using that oven for pizza - from what I have read, you use the residual heat of a WFO to bake bread - since you have the residual heat anyway, why not. I made some bread in a BS just to see if I could, and the whole time I kept thinking it was an awful waste of gas. The main appeal of yours, and the BS, is a quick start up time, which means there is not much in the way of residual heat. Since it is gas fired, you can't really seal the oven off like you can in a electric oven. I would just focus on the pizza. Those that want steam for baking have a number of other options ( covered containers like DO, injecting steam in a pan, ice water in a pan of metal, etc ).
Thanks for the input all!The 5" of ceiling height adjustment it out of the design now. The adjustment bolts and front cover are removed now. I'll be able to trim up some length on the upper shroud which will save some steel weight.There are two things I'm still mulling over. The first is the appropriate distance for the burner to be below the baking stone. On my prototype the distance 6" and I have 6-1/8" in my new design. The prototype has a 1" corderite kiln shelf with direct flame to the underside of the stone. The new design will have the cheap 5/8" pizza stone found on Amazon (made in China?) with a 7 gauge (.1793") plate under the stone.The other question is, what an optimal height for the height of the ceiling to be above the stone is. The prototype is 3-3/8", my new design is at 3" adjustable up to 4-1/4".Any suggestions?
I think the best answers might be to just simply copy specs from the BS oven Adam. The oven is a proven winner so why not? You definitely won't need that 7ga. platter for one thing $.Just let us know...I'd be glad to go out back with a tape measure and get you some numbers.Bob
Sure, that would be great, I've been curious as to how the BS is set up. I went to the Cabela's in town looking to see a BS put together in the showroom, they don't have one set up You think I should go with a thinner platter thickness?
Take a look around in the BS threads and you can see that the design is quite similar to yours....main difference being your burner located in the rear versus side mount.The reason I say thinner platter is because if you are switching over to a different bottom stone, one being more like that in the BS then it only seems logical to go with platter thickness same as BS....we all know that works, right?
Most of the steel was just cut on a CNC plasma cutter.Next up is forming the pieces, a little processing, and then welding.
Hmm thanks for the input guys, I'll have to think about making it bigger. This oven is being designed exclusively for me, no plans to market this. If it works out for me a coworker might make one of his own. If someone really really really liked the design and wanted a 20" deck I could probably be convinced to fabricate one for them. Between shipping and steel costs it wouldn't be dirt cheap though.
Looking forward to seeing your updated design... When do expect to be ready for first fire?

subset: commoncrawl


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Graphics processing units (GPUs) are gaining market acceptance in high-performance computing space and are also gaining hardware features that are specifically designed to improve their compute performance. While central processing units (CPUs) will still remain in use in the long term, the mix between them and GPUs in servers will change, according to AMD.
"I think what CPUs and GPUs can do is change the mix [of their existence inside servers]. The x86 CPU architecture is on the curve towards the end of Moore's law due to power limitations… It is hard to build an exascale server using purely x86 technology because that server is going to be too big and will consume too much power. There are already scalability limitations and some of them are pretty thoroughly explored. So, the mix between CPUs and GPUs will, I think, potentially, change," said Patricia Harrell, director of Stream computing at AMD, in a conversation with X-bit labs.
Some fifteen years ago all supercomputers were based on various proprietary chips. However, the vast majority of HPCs today are powered by x86-based chips. Graphics chips are also moving into that space and going forward they have chances to replace conventional CPUs on that market. However, they are unlikely to completely replace microprocessors, at the end of the day it is still impossible to run operating system on a graphics chip; moreover, some code needs to be run on central processing units. In general, there dawn of heterogeneous computing is coming, not the dawn of all-around GPU computing.
"There is a market trends towards heterogeneous computing and what we call Fusion architecture. There is tremendous potential for that kind of technology in the HPC space as well. On the software side there are research projects investigating how game developers can use all of the resources available on a system. So, they do not have to think exclusively what architecture to use for their application," said Ms. Harrell.
Even Intel Corp. admits that the mix between central processors and graphics/stream processing chips inside servers is set to change by announcing Larrabee and eventually MIC architectures, there will still be applications that will rely on pure x86 products, according to AMD.
"I think there will always be applications that run on one architecture better than on another. I believe, there will always be a space for discrete GPUs and there will always be a space for x86 technology that can run traditional applications. So, there will always be a place for both architectures and the question for an application is what is the mix of CPUs and GPUs is there and how it is architected," said the director of Stream computing at AMD.
At present AMD offers FireStream compute accelerators for HPC servers based on ATI graphics chips. In the future the company plans to integrate CPUs and GPUs onto the same piece of silicon for both clients and servers.
It is interesting to note that one of the sessions at the Hot Chips 2010 symposium dedicated to various processing and server technologies is entitled "Surviving the End of Scaling of Traditional Microprocessors in HPC". The specialists from Schlumberger and Stanford universities are going to discuss limitations of today's microprocessors when it comes to HPC servers.
Tags: AMD, FireStream, ATI, GPGPU, x86, Larrabee, MIC, Tesla


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U.S. Men's National Team Update for Nov. 25
B.J. Hoeptner Evans
Manager, Media Relations and Publications
Phone: (719) 228-6800
E-Mail: email@example.com
ANAHEIM, Calif. (Nov. 24, 2008) – In the battle of U.S. Men's National Team gold-medal winning setters in Russia, Kevin Hansen and host Fakel Novy Urengoi defeated Lloy Ball and Zenit Kazan, 3-2 (25-23, 29-25, 25-20, 22-25, 15-11).
With the victory, Fakel maintains its third-place status in the Russian Super League with a 7- 2 record while Kazan stays in fourth at 5-4.
Hansen (Newport Beach, Calif.) scored five points in the match on three kills, one block and one ace. His U.S. teammate on Fakel, Sean Rooney (Wheaton, Ill.) did not play in the match due to a reported injury.
U.S. opposite Clay Stanley (Honolulu, Hawai'i) led Kazan with 17 points on 13 kills, one block and three aces. Ball (Fort Wayne, Ind.) had five points on four kills and one block.
View a photo gallery of the match at http://www.fakelvolley.ru/photo2_20082009/l30_ph.htm.
Fakel will play Reid Priddy (Richmond, Va.) and Lokomotiv Novosibirsk on Dec. 3 in Novosibirsk.
Kazan will play league-leading Dynamo Moscow in the semifinals of the Cup of Russia on Nov. 29 in Novosibirsk.
In other Russian matches, Gabe Gardner (San Clemente, Calif.) and Ural Ufa defeated Priddy and Novosibirsk, 3-2 (25-19, 25-20, 22-25, 25-27, 15-11) on Nov. 22 at Ural Ufa.
Gardner scored 17 points on 15 kills, one block and one ace. Priddy totaled 10 points on nine kills and one block.
Ural Ufa is in fifth place in the league with a 5-4 record with Novosibirsk just behind in sixth at 4-5.
View a photo gallery of the match at http://www.volleyufa.ru/?g=12&page=photogallery.
Ural Ufa will travel to play Lokomotiv Belgorod on Dec. 3. Novosibirsk will play Iskra Odintsovo in the semifinal of the Cup of Russia, which it is hosting, on Nov. 29.
Stanley is fifth among all Russian Super League players – and the first non-Russian player – in scoring with 165 points on 118 kills, 15 blocks and 32 aces. His 32 aces lead the league.
Gardner is 13th with 124 points on 106 kills, 12 blocks and six aces. Priddy is 18th with 114 points on 84 kills, 18 blocks and 12 aces. Rooney is 26th with 94 points on 79 kills, 13 blocks and two aces.
Ryan Millar (Palmdale, Calif.) and Scott Touzinsky (St. Louis, Mo.) and their Turkish team, Istanbul Buyuksehir Belediye fell to Ziraat Bankasi, 1-3 (25-27, 25-17, 20-25, 21-25) on Nov. 19 in Ankara. It is scheduled to play Galatasaray on Nov. 26.
Istanbul Buyuksehir Belediye is in fifth place in the Turkish league.
Brook Billings (Santa Barbara, Calif.) scored 20 points in Fenerbahce Erkek's 2-3 loss to Halkbank on Nov. 22. Billings had 17 kills, two blocks and one ace. Fenerbahce is in sixth in the league.
U.S. players Theodore Bruner and Matt Denmark participated in the Hellenic league all-star game on Nov. 22 at Amaliada in western Peloponnese. The World All Stars beat the Greek All Stars 2-0 (25-21, 25-21).
Bruner plays for PAOK and Denmark plays for Phinikas S.
The Italian Serie A League will play its all-star game on Nov. 26. No word on what players will be participating. David Lee (Alpine, Calif.) plays middle blocker for Trenkwalder Modena.
Outside hitter Jayson Jablonsky (Yorba Linda, Calif.) is starting for Wayel Balogna in Italy's Serie A2 league. Wayel is third in the league with a 7-3 record. The team fell to M. Roma Volley on Sunday, 1-3 (25-19, 16-25, 22-25, 21-25). Jablonsky scored 12 points on 11 kills and one ace.
Middle European Volleyball
Opposite Evan Patak (Pleasanton, Calif.) is playing for aon hotVolleys in Vienna, Austria. The hotVolleys are in fourth place in the Middle European Volleyball Zonal Association competition with a 4-3 record.
Most recently, the visiting hotVolleys fell to Hungary's Kometa Kaposvar, 1-3 (18-25, 25-22, 19-25, 20-25). Patak is fourth in the league in scoring with 91 points for an average of 3.64 per set.
Delano Thomas (Sacramento, Calif.) is playing for Slovenia's ACH Volley, which is second in the league at 6-0. Thomas did not play in the team's most recent match.
Setter Jonathan Winder (Irvine, Calif.) is playing for Tourcoing in the French Pro A league. The team lost to Paris Volley, 1-3 (25-19, 27-25, 25-23, 25-18) on Nov. 22. Winder played in all four sets, including starting the fourth, and scored one point.


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by Anton Shilov
There is a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them.
Hewlett Packard, one of the world's largest IT companies, announced on Thursday that its board of directors has authorized the evaluation of strategic alternatives for its Personal Systems Group (PSG), including the exploration of the separation of its PC business into a separate company through a spin-off or other transaction.
HP is implementing a plan to fundamentally transform the company. An important component of the plan is focusing its investments, resources and management attention to drive higher value solutions to enterprise, small and midsize business and public sector customers. HP believes that the exploration of alternatives for PSG will help the company accomplish its strategic goals and pursue profitable growth and enhanced shareholder value. A post-transaction HP would continue to help its customers manage the information explosion and address their most critical needs through a portfolio that spans printing, software, services, servers, storage and networking.
"In March we outlined a strategy for HP, built on cloud, solutions and software to address the changing requirements of our customers, shaped heavily by secular market trends that are redefining how technology is consumed and deployed. Since then, we have observed the acceleration of these market trends, which has led us to evaluate additional steps to transform HP to meet emerging opportunities," said Léo Apotheker, HP president and chief executive officer.
The personal computing market is quickly evolving with new form factors and application ecosystems. Given these realities, HP believes it is in the best interests of the company and its shareholders to explore ways for PSG to position itself to address these rapid changes and maintain its technological and market leadership positions.
HP's PSG is the leading manufacturer of personal computers in the world and had annual revenues of approximately $41 billion in fiscal year 2010. PSG enjoys leading global market positions in consumer and commercial PCs. But those leading positions come at a cost of very thin margins. Furthermore, given the size of HP, it is hard to keep the PC business unit competitive as the decision making processes take a long time, which leads to lost opportunities and long time-to-market.
To make the matters worse, consumer and PC businesses have long became commodity businesses with poor margins, low profitability and limited growth amid high risks. Meanwhile, HP wants to concentrate on more profitable businesses that have bright growth prospects, including cloud computing technologies, services, highly-integrated solutions and so on.
"Their focus is on being more of a software and services company and not dependent on the hardware businesses. The hardware business has become a difficult business. In many ways it's a commodity-driven business. This is a major strategic shift for HP," said Michael Gartenberg, an analyst at Gartner.
But removing PC and consumer hardware businesses from the company will not immediately help HP to achieve its strategic goals. It will still have to integrate all of its businesses and be able to provide vertically-integrated solutions.
"Removing all or part of its low-margin consumer PC business and the expense of fighting its way into the mobile and tablet markets with a fourth offering (after Apple, Google, and Microsoft) will improve HPs margins in the short term. The company will be challenged, however, to morph into a highly profitable purveyor of software, services, servers and storage - a goal it has pursued for some time," said Beau Skonieczny, research analyst of computing practice at Technology Business Research (TBR).
HP management, together with its financial and legal advisers, will explore strategic alternatives, including the exploration of the separation of its PC business into a separate company through a spin-off or other transaction that would likely be tax free to U.S. shareholders. HP expects that the process could be completed within approximately 12-18 months. There can be no assurance that any transaction regarding PSG will be pursued or completed.
The big question now is who may buy HP's PSG group that generated $41 billion last year.
TBR believes Samsung is one prime candidate to purchase HP's PSG, as it maintains large cash reserves and an established base for component manufacturing. In addition, Samsung's limited global PC presence, where HP maintains broad traction, presents an added benefit to Samsung making such a strategic acquisition.


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Dr. Sathya Elavarthi
Three faculty members in DSU's College of Agriculture and Related Sciences recently received funding through the USDA Capacity Building Grant Program.
Dr. Sathya Elavarthi, assistant professor in the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, received a grant titled, "Integrating Agricultural and Cultural Experiences in Student Training: A Study Abroad Program to Ghana," in the amount of $299,975.
"This is an excellent opportunity for DSU students to gain international experience and the best part is the grant will pay for travel expenses for all selected students," Dr. Elavarthi said.
This grant will expand the limited study-abroad choices usually available to minority students by providing participants with opportunities for direct interaction with individuals and institutions involved in Ghanaian
Dr. Rose Ogutu, a horticulture specialist for the DSU Cooperative Extension and a grant recipient, works in a high tunnel at DSU's Outreach and Research Center, which is used to extend the growing season of crops.
agriculture. Through this program, undergraduate students will learn about and appreciate the culture, agriculture and economy of Ghana, while gaining workforce preparedness in global agriculture.
Delaware horticulture crop growers are facing growing demand from consumers for locally produced foods and increased concern about the environmental impacts of agriculture. In response, Dr. Rose Ogutu, State Horticulture specialist for Delaware State University Cooperative Extension, received funding for her grant, "Increasing Horticulture Based Outreach and Extension Program Activities by Delaware Cooperative Extension," in the amount of $247,230. This project will help local growers improve their production techniques and yields by providing them with greater access to agriculture demonstrations, including organic production, and season extension models at the DSU Outreach and Research Center in Smyrna. Growers will also learn the value of networking, using direct marketing, and developing an electronic and social media presence to help promote their products.
"Six acres of land at the Outreach and Research center will be converted to organic production for this purpose," says Dr. Ogutu. "DSU Cooperative Extension will supply our clientele a diverse set of resources to help them sustain profitable and environmentally friendly enterprises."
Dr. Kalpalatha Melmaiee, research scientist in the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, received $149,000 to fund her grant titled, "On-farm Training Program for Students from Non-farm Backgrounds." This program targets students majoring in agriculture fields who come from non-farm backgrounds,providing them with field-based experiences that will enrich their knowledge.
Dr. Kalpalatha Melmaiee
"Hands-on field experiences will provide students with the skills and experiences that are hard to acquire through classroom education," says Dr. Melmaiee. "Students selected for this summer program will work closely with local farmers and also take part in field trips and workshops."
This on-farm training program will support 24 summer internships to CARS students over the next three years. This program will help strengthen the partnerships among farmers, K-12 institutions and land grant colleges. Additionally, the grant will also establish a first generation club and a student resource center in the College of Agriculture and Related Sciences at DSU, providing students with the guidance and resources needed to succeed in their studies and prepare them for their careers.


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-T / T / +T | Comment(s)
Tuesday, July 23, 2013
FAA Certifies New Cockpit Recorder for AS332 Helicopters
The FAA recently issued a supplemental type certificate for a new cockpit voice and flight data recorder (CVFDR) for AS332 helicopters.
Vector Aerospace Corp., in collaboration with L-3 Vertex Aerospace, produced the new CVFDR, which is currently the only FAA-approved CVFDR retrofit available on the market. The CVFDR includes a digital flight data acquisition unit, and meets Part 135 operating requirements.
Related: Avionics News


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Winsor & Newton Brush Cleaner & Restorer safely and easily cleans both natural and synthetic brushes without damage to brush heads. It leaves no oily residue, emits a low amount of vapor and is non-toxic, biodegradable, water-soluble, non-flammable and non-abrasive.
Winsor & Newton Brush Cleaner & Restorer is available in 120 ml and 474 ml bottles.
Winsor & Newton Brush Cleaner & Restorer is available in 120 ml and 474 ml bottles.
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Average User Rating: Based on (8 Reviews)
5 8
Virginia L. from Nancy, KY says:
Exceptional - I don't use any other product for brush cleaning & stripping paint , and I recommend it to all who ask.
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Create Standard Collections Using File Upload
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This video shows how to use the file upload method to create new standard collections for electronic journals, electronic books, or print serials to the knowledge base.
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Great Live Moments - Coming Monday, March 31st
March 28, 2008. Posted by Joshua Jackson.Add new comment | Filed under: broadcast recordings, consecutive weeks, dexter gordon, james moody, jazz appreciation, jim hall, Listening Post, Live Music, michel camilo, roy hargrove, showcase, vault, wbgo, weekday
Make plans to visit the WBGO Blog on Monday. We'll be presenting Great Live Moments - selected material from WBGO's extensive archive of broadcast recordings. Our blog will showcase one song per weekday for five consecutive weeks. Dexter Gordon, James Moody, Jim Hall, Michel Camilo, and Roy Hargrove - and that's just the first week. WBGO celebrates a birthday in April, which coincidentally is Jazz Appreciation Month. We've been recording great jazz for 29 years, and we want to share some found moments from the jazz vault with you. So come back Monday.


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I remembered that I own a del.icio.us account, and started collecting links for an infrequent DS round up
Comics related Links Wrap Up
- Blog@Newsarama » Cartoon Network confirms 'Batman: The Brave and the Bold'
The Brave and the Bold featuring the new Blue Beetle, the old Batman, and a somewhere in between Green Arrow. Now, can they find female cartoon characters to round out the pack? As awesome as going straight to the new Beetle is for having a Mexican-American character, how about a female lead in the show as well?
- Lesbian Gamers: Morgan Gray & Racial Stereotyping in Games
Coverage by Lesbian Gamers of an interesting interview highlighting the structural similarities in how companies justify excluding groups from gaming content. I've heard a bunch of those arguments explaining why comic books characters have to look the same
- Occasional Superheroine:
Female Superhero Comic Book Readers Desire "Good Storylines". Yes, yes they do – amazing conceptual breakthrough not yet grasped by the major labels – story lines could be the revolution in comics that Liefield was for pouches.
- The Visual Linguist: New Essay: Navigating Comics
The visual navigation processes used for observing pages in comics. Science and comics in the very same context, it's got to be promoted.
Not quite so comics connected, but still in the broader feminism movement category, (for which this blog is aiming to belong)
- Shakesville: It's Right There in the Name
We're supposed to apologize and admit that they're right, suppress our real feelings to keep the peace. We're supposed to show them just how far we can bend. Oddly enough, though, that's not how things work on a feminist blog
- Why people flip out when you talk about gender in kids stories | the Hathor Legacy
Money quote for me (amongst a good wrap up of the coverage of another good story) "Because in teaching girls that they're only accessories, we're also denying heterosexual men the ability to have meaningful, adult relationships with women who take full responsibility for their own happiness".
Finally, props to to InternetDuctTape.com and the Delicious Links Builder for turning this sort of list blogging after from pain to glory in numerous really complex YahooPipes! steps and one straightforward page.


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The Basel Action Network, a non-profit organization qualifies responsible electronics recyclers as E-Stewards.
Certified companies meet the most rigourous standards of environmentall and social responsibility and their processes have been verified by BAN.
These standards prevent the export of electronics to developing countries, which have seen significant environmental and human damage due to this practice.
Visit www.estewards.orgfor more information.


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IRS tax prep recommendation are good ones
It seems taxes have been on our individual and collective minds in recent months.
Start with the presidential campaign. It was jam packed with debate, discussion and outright argument about tax policy, who should pay more, who should pay less and the such. The election was only recent history when the fiscal cliff fight broke out. The nation went to the 11th hour on that one, with additional battles yet to be fought over raising the debt ceiling. And then in recent days, virtually all Americans found their first paycheck of the new year somewhat lighter because a two-year rollback of payroll taxes, enacted to stimulate the economy, had expired. And, of course, it's tax preparation season until mid April and all Americans are preparing to have their 2012 returns completed and filed.
So, it was against that backdrop that Internal Revenue Service Special Agent Cindy Burnett visited the Upper Peninsula recently, to underscore the need for security, especially in the area of identity theft.
"We've got a lot of identity theft going on," Burnett told Mining Journal Staff Writer Jackie Stark for a front-page story Saturday. Burnett works in the IRS' criminal investigation department that covers the Upper Peninsula and northern Lower Peninsula. Scammers, the special agent said, employ all kinds of electronic means and methods to achieve their goals – which often is filing a fraudulent tax return – including text messages, emails and even through social media vehicles such as Facebook.
The thing to remember about the IRS, she said, is that a letter on official letterhead would arrive via traditional mail. It would be up to the addressee to make the next contact, or potentially risk an in-person visit.
In 2012, the agency stopped about $20 billion in bogus returns, she noted, occasionally getting tips about scammers from newspapers and other media.
Her basic advice makes sense: Take care with personal information, especially Social Security numbers. Never assume that an electronic contact is legitimate. And if it sounds too good to be true, it almost certainly is.


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Here's how RW members rated this race in the past (815 votes).
In short: Testing course on a well marshalled scenic routeIn full: Not quite sure why this scenic marathon only attracts 750 runners. It's far better than that. A generally well organised event which is deserving of a bigger field. The route is a two lapper and yes, there are hills; two testing ones and an incline that greets you at miles 8 and 18 which is a hill in any ones language. The best part of the day is the marshalls and the drinks station staff. They were excellent and mostly well briefed. Plenty of smiling and encouragment from them. The opening one mile lap around the town was fine for reasonable runners but my wife, who was watching the event, told me that slower runners at the back, who hadn't gone over the start line, were told to 'get out of the way' as the front runners were coming back through! Not very nice for those that were embarking on 26 miles to be treated that way. Surely a slightly longer first lap would solve this issue? One big problem with the route is at 25 miles when you have to negotiate a kissing gate at the end of the Greenway! Why wasn't the larger gate opened for runners? I had to squeeze past a child on a bike which was not ideal.As others have said a shame no goody bag. A cereal or choccy bar would not have gone amiss.And so to the commentator at the end... Apparently he missed the winner coming in. He also confused runners opting to do the half marathon distance instead of the full marathon coming in to finish. Marathon runners red numbers, half had white numbers on. So those with red numbers deciding to finish at half distance had supremely good times! My wife said he was congratulating marathon runners coming in at 1hr 50 mins!! Please get someone who is a bit more knowledgeable about running next year.And finally the prize giving. A lot of runners like to see this part of the event. I do. When I asked when it would be the answer was 'ten minutes'. Half an hour went by: 'another ten minutes' Twenty minutes went by. I left. And so too I guess had most of the prize winners and vast majority of runners. I hope there is a mechanism for Runners World to feed all my fellow runners comments back to the Rotary Club as there is no local club involvement with the running of the race. 'We've been doing this for 32 years' I was told by one of the Rotary Club members. Maybe enough time to have really got it spot on then?Date of review: April 29, 2013
In short: Fabulous day!In full: I had an amazing day thanks to the fantastic organisation and support provided throughout. The marshals were great throughout and offered much needed support. It was also great to have so many local people coming out to cheer us along and this was again appreciated.Stratford is such a lovely place and it was nice to have a run around the town before heading out to the scenic countryside. I personally really enjoyed the long track, but it seemed to go on forever on the second lap!Would really recommend this race and hope to be back again in the future. Date of review: April 29, 2013
In short: One of the best organised and great value for money marathon - Brighton take note!In full: What a wonderful marathon. The organisation was superb and the Race Director and his Rotary Team should be congratulated on staging this race.Everything was perfect with parking, showers etc so close to the finish. The marshals were great and a special mention should be made of the people of Stratford for their support along many parts of the route. I hope this race continues to be successful and receives the support of the local council as it certainly is a credit to the town. My only disappoint was the behaviour of a number of my fellow runners whose selfish behaviour is becoming more and more prevalent at races which could jeopardise future events. Why am so angry? Well, it's so easy to follow the race route by the discarded gel packets and water bottles just thrown discriminatly along the roads without any thought of who has to collect the. One Ware Runner discarded his bottle (like many other others), along the Greenway well away from any drinks station or marshal. Surely like many others he could have carried it to the next drinks station. Gel packets were all along the Greenway and reflects badly on all runners and race organisers. Anyone found littering during a race should be warned or face a future ban as there is no excuse.Date of review: April 29, 2013
In short: Reasonably flat, quick courseIn full: This is a reasonable flat course with only a couple of decent size hills on the route. As it is pretty flat, I shaved 20mins of my previous marathon time. It was fantastically organised on the day. All of the marshalls were extremley friendly/encouraging. Something which other events would benefit from.Date of review: April 28, 2013
In short: Very nice scenery, nice location, nice people and quick course!In full: Back from a very enjoyable half marathon! I ran a pb, and have quickly signed up for my next one in Birmingham. The course included a few steep sections but the downhills allowed me to catch my breath! Not many people around for a few sections but then the support and volunteers helped pick you up again. Very well organised event!Few suggestions: - Sports drink/gel station for the longer marathon (and maybe the half if you're feeling generous!)- A clock on the half way point or quarter points for people like me who forget their watch! Overall, very good, see you next year! Date of review: April 28, 2013
In short: A great trip out in the countryIn full: I got a PB but missed sub four hours by 8 seconds. Plenty of toilets around the course which was very good to see - no nipping behind bushes! The Greenway was enjoyable although I found miles 14-17 tough for some reason. I might do it again but it didn't grab me completely. Something other than a medal and a banana would have been good but the route was well supported and the volunteers were excellent. Thank you all for giving up your time.Date of review: April 28, 2013
In short: Very well organised, decent courseIn full: Clockwork organisation, excellent and very friendly marshalls, especially liked parking simplicity, loads of water stations and top notch showers afterwards.Maybe worth looking at a sports drink station at 20 ish and possibly a couple of goodies other than medal at end - in summary - highly recommended 4??Date of review: April 28, 2013
In full: the strong headwinds possibly made for slower times on what would usually be quite a fast course.the hill at mile 7 and 18 certainly proved challenging but there were also very flat sections to stretch out.wouldn't say it's a definate PB course but quick times are still possible.the scenery and warwickshire countryside make it a nice marathon,and a spectacular finish along the river.Personally,i would prefer this as a regular spring marathon to london.Date of review: April 28, 2013
In short: forget last yearIn full: Great day to erase last years memories. The only niggle I had was the early water stops were a bit disorganised. Fabulous support. May be back for the half.Date of review: April 28, 2013
In short: Lovely day for a run!In full: Well organised and friendly event. Was worried after reading about the problems from last year. Pretty flat course with a harsh hill at mile 8. My only gripe was the narrow streets at the start. Could they have pens for runners aiming for different times as I spent the first mile weaving in and out of slow runners/walkers. Overall a very enjoyable event and a PB too. Date of review: April 28, 2013
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Deputies looking for Sprague Chevron burglar
SPRAGUE, Wash. - Lincoln County Sheriff deputies are seeking help in identifying the individual who broken into the Sprague Chevron early Tuesday morning.
Sheriff Wade Magers reports that an unidentified individual broke into the Chevron gas station Tuesday morning around 4 a.m.
In addition to the person who broke into the gas station, whose picture is to the right, a second person was spotted on surveillance footage sitting in the driver seat of a dark green Ford SUV, either an Explorer or Expedition model, with a large brush guard mounted on front.
If you recognize the person in the picture or have any information on this break-in you're asked to call the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office at (509) 725-9262.


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Here's how RW members rated this race in the past (136 votes).
In full: A fantastic race, yes hard and challenging but I'd sign up tomorrow.I thought the marshalls and how it was organised were spot on, its got to be one of the most scenic races I've done for a long time :-)Date of review: June 10, 2014
In short: A excellent race and well worth a trip only thing to note through is it's very hilly and challenging. Date of review: June 9, 2014
In short: Tough but a great challenge, happy to say I have completed it and kept running up those hills!In full: It was hot, there are a couple of killer hills. But the scenery and atmosphere make this worth turning out for. Organisation, marshals and water - fabulous. I only entered on the Monday before and am happy to say I got a place. Will definitely come again - maybe not the day after White Peak Half Marathon though! Date of review: May 19, 2014
In short: great feel good factorIn full: This rates as one of my fave events even though it was my first.It is so well organised and everyone is so friendly-something you miss at large events. We wandered around after the event, and on the way back to the car got pipped at by marshalls shouting thanks for coming out of their windows, a woman and her daughter stopped us us to chat and ask how we had got on and again were so appreciative of us turning up.it seems like the whole village turns out in support of this charity event. Its a challenging course with drawdropping scenery.Will I be back again for more of the same?-you bet :-)Date of review: May 19, 2014
In short: Wonderful community event with killing terrain and spectacular viewsDate of review: May 19, 2014
In short: A delight of a run with the best friendly marshalls you're ever likely to get!In full: A big thank you to all the organisers & marshalls at Eyam - this run is brilliant! Fantastic scenery, wonderful supportive marshalls & local people ... and a hell of a challenge! (What we get out of bed for on a Sunday morning!). This is one of those runs that gives you a really warm feeling based on what you've just done & seen. Keep up the good work Eyam! Date of review: May 18, 2014
In short: Very good, great buzz around the village & a tough sunday morning run.In full: Super race, great organisation & a proper village race. Yes it's hilly & tough in places but the scenery is well worth it. Fabulous last mile & the warm weather added to the gig, loved it, well done to the organisers.Date of review: May 18, 2014
In short: Excellent race and organisation!In full: What more can I say but absolutely fantastic race. Organisation is top class! If only there is a medal, I will be ligning it up together with all my very best medals :)Date of review: May 18, 2014
In short: red hot weatherIn full: my first race back after 2 months after trouble with my leg and did ok getting 1h52 non stop great to have support all around the course at key points and the jelly babies this is one of my yearly races and this is the hottest weather i have even run it in had tea and lovely scone at that cafe at finish lineDate of review: May 18, 2014
In short: Scenic. Challenging. Back next year. Superb.In full: The most enjoyable race I've ever done. Fantastic rural setting with great views all around. In the middle section you feel like you're running across the top of the world. If you're up for a challenge this race is a must; the final ascent is devilish. You can forget about PBs!Rounded it off with homemade cake and coffee at the finish line cafe.Can't wait to come back.Date of review: May 18, 2014
Visit the official Runner's World page
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Injury Clinics
About Runner's World


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Been awhile since we've had a west side v. east side rant, so I'll go ahead and blame you fucks from the east side for the traffic mess on our main arteries connecting the two sides of our city this fine day. 90 west backed up from the DMC till as far east as E152 at one point, and the alternate route of 480 west just had an accident at Miles, bringing all 4 lanes to a complete halt.
Thanks dicks.


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Sleek hairstyle with voluminous ends and beautiful bangs
Sleek black curves and curls are showstoppers in this long hairstyle. A full black fringe covering the eyebrows shines between two voluminous falls of lively curls. Hair is equally parted, then brushed in front of both shoulders. The initially straight roots give way to big coils and curls that yet leave the black unbroken, framing the jawline with undulating waves.


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In today's business environment, companies are looking for ways to reduce costs and streamline operations. Avnet Infrastructure Solutions offers a full suite of services that can help your organization address issues without bringing in costly consulting firms. As the largest independent IT reseller, we have a unique knowledge of IT data centers and we want you to benefit from our expertise.
Contact Avnet Today
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Cramer's Top Stock Picks: BA RHI HLF FHN KEY
NEW YORK (TheStreet) -- Here are some of the hot stocks Jim Cramer talked about on Thursday's "Mad Money" on CNBC:
data by YCharts
Boeing (BA) : Cramer said the 787 may be grounded, but that won't keep down the stock of Boeing for long.
data by YCharts
Robert Half (RHI) : Temporary staffing will be on fire in 2013 as small companies gear up for Obamacare, said Cramer, and Robert Half is best in show.
data by YCharts
Herbalife (HLF) : Investors need to avoid battleground stocks like Herbalife, said Cramer, even though he now feels the company is gaining the upper hand.
data by YCharts
First Horizon (FHN) and Key Corp (KEY) : It's time to buy the regional banks, said Cramer, and these two remain his favorites.To read a full recap of "Mad Money" on CNBC, click here.
To sign up for Jim Cramer's free Booyah! newsletter with all of his latest articles and videos please click here.
To watch replays of Cramer's video segments, visit the Mad Money page on CNBC.
-- Written by Scott Rutt in Washington, D.C.
To email Scott about this article, click here: Scott Rutt
Follow Scott on Twitter @ScottRutt or get updates on Facebook, ScottRuttDC


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Thrasher Opera House is a 'general seating' venue. When you purchase a ticket, a seat is guaranteed,
but not a specific one. The patron my choose a seat on a first-come, first-choice basis.
Complete this online form and click the 'Purchase Tickets' button to submit your request to our office. You will receive an automatic email stating that we received your order. We will respond within two business days to notify you of the status of your request, which will include your credit card authorization number, after the order has been processed. All tickets purchased on-line are subject to a service fee of $1.50 per ticket. This handling fee will be added to your total due at checkout.
Please note: All ticket sales are final. No refunds or exchanges are allowed for ticket or service fees.
Telephone orders. You may also place an order for tickets using a credit card by calling the Thrasher Office at (920) 294-4279. Note: All tickets purchased with credit cards are subject to a $1.50 per ticket handling fee.
Thrasher Ticket Outlets: Tickets can be purchased at the following outlets using cash or check only. The Thrasher office & Horicon Bank (Green Lake), Ripon Drug & Webster's Marketplace (Ripon), Twister (Princeton).
Free concerts will not appear on this form. Please see our events calendar for a listing of all events. You will not need a ticket for these free events.
Required information is in red.
Please note: All ticket sales are final. No refunds or exchanges are allowed for ticket or service fees.
***Please enter your complete billing information as it appears on your credit card. The mailing address you enter must match the cardholders billing address, or the credit card transaction will be declined. Please make sure you complete the entire on-line order form. Make sure to fill in each required field. Click the 'PURCHASE TICKETS' button to complete your order. If you do not, your order will not be submitted. Upon confirmation of ticket availability and verification of your credit card, you will receive a confirmation number of your purchase via email.
Your tickets will be held for you at the opera house ticket window (will-call) at 506 Mill Street in Green Lake. You can pick them up when the door opens 45 minutes before the designated show time.
If the concert is sold-out or if on-line ticket sales are not available for a concert, the ticket quantity will appear as "(n/a)".


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News Advisory & Photo Opportunity: NYPA Provides Ten Electric Vehicles to New York City Housing Authority
Brian Warner
October 21, 2005
The New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) will receive ten emission-free GEM neighborhood electric vehicles from the New York Power Authority (NYPA). GEMs are two and four-passenger low speed vehicles suitable for use in many of NYCHA's housing developments. These are the first electric vehicles in the NYCHA fleet.
NYPA President and Chief Executive Officer Eugene W. Zeltmann will present the keys to NYCHA General Manager Douglas Apple at the Throggs Neck Houses in the Bronx. NYCHA plans to disperse the vehicles to a number of housing developments, where staff will use the emission free vehicles in the course of their normal, day-to-day duties.
There will be excellent photo opportunities to capture the two and four passenger GEM vehicles in operation at one the city's larger housing developments.
On street parking is available in front of the management office. Additional space is available in the parking lot across the street. For NYCHA information call (212) 306-3322.
WHAT: Electric Vehicle Delivery
WHEN: Monday, October 24, 2005, 10:30 a.m.
WHERE: Management
Throggs Neck Houses
2824 Schley Avenue
Bronx, NY 10453
Directions: From Midtown: Take the FDR Drive uptown, cross the Willis Avenue Bridge. Stay right hand side onto the Bruckner Service Road on to the Bruckner Expressway and proceed north towards the Throggs Neck Bridge. Get off at Randall Avenue. Go to the first traffic light. Throggs Neck Houses will be right there. The Management Office is located at 2824 Schley Avenue. Proceed through the traffic light and turn right on Schley Avenue and about ¼ of the way down the block the Management Office is located there on the left.


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Silver Creek hires code officer
SILVER CREEK – Silver Creek will have its own code enforcement officer after a recent appointment was approved by the village board.
The board named Linda DeFries as code enforcement officer effective Sept. 3, a position she used to hold with the town of Hanover.
The action specified the position is for 12 hours per week at a rate of $20 per hour with a $0.45 per mile reimbursement.
"Will the permit and inspection fees offset her salary?" Trustee Tom Harmon asked, saying he is concerned there is not much money left in the code enforcement budget line.
Mayor Nick Piccolo said it would offset her salary somewhat. Trustee Warren Kelly said the fee schedule for permits and inspections should probably be revised, since this has not been done in many years.
The board unanimously approved the appointment, with Ben Peters absent due to deployment overseas.
Earlier in the year the town of Hanover notified the villages of Silver Creek and Forestville that the code enforcement agreement, where the town provided the service to the villages, would have to be reconsidered. Since then the town has given the villages an extension to find zoning officers.
At the Aug. 5 meeting, the village board unanimously approved the appointment of James DeJoe as zoning officer at an annual salary of $3,000 with $0.45 per mile reimbursement. DeJoe also serves several other municipalities in the same capacity.
It was said at the time DeJoe would work with Hanover Code Officer Tom Gould and take the burden of zoning off Gould so he could focus on code enforcement. However, the village was later told Gould would not have time to do inspections in the village.
Kelly explained DeFries will do fire and rental inspections, which have not been done for many years in the village, and DeJoe will enforce local zoning violations. He reported DeJoe has already started sending letters and issuing citations for issues like unmowed grass.
The village received support from the state for the appointment, which encouraged the village to get caught up on inspections. Trustee Anthony Pearl said he also supported the action for this reason.
The board will meet again Sept. 16.


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Sign ruling could affect businesses village-wide
SARANAC LAKE – This village's Zoning Board of Appeals ruled Thursday night that full-size window decals at two local businesses are signs that violate the village sign code – a code that, now that it's being enforced, could have ramifications for dozens of business owners.
The ZBA voted unanimously to determine that window decals at the Tri-Lakes Center for Independent Living and Eye Care for the Adirondacks are considered signs under village code. The board subsequently decided that the signs meet the definition of a window sign; that measure passed 3-1, with Shawn Boyer opposed.
Some board members said they shared the frustrations expressed by business owners and stressed that their job is to interpret the law as it is written. The village is currently working on a new code.
"I know this is a huge porcupine for the village," Boyer said. "I just want you guys to be assured that the code is being repaired as we speak. When there's comment for the code, I would suggest that you guys gather everybody you can get to come to the public comment."
The rulings mean that those two business owners will have to apply for a permit, according to village Code Enforcement Officer Tom Worthington. They will likely get rejected, he said, and then have to apply to the ZBA for a variance.
The village code defines a sign as "any announcement, declaration, demonstration, display, illustration, insignia, or visually communicative or expressive device used to advertise or promote the interests of any person when the same is placed in view of the general public." A window sign is one that is inside a building but intended to be viewed by the public from the outside. The village's code limits window signs to 2 square feet.
In nearby Lake Placid, only neon window signs are limited to 2 feet. Other window signs are limited to 20 percent of the window's area, according to Lake Placid Code Enforcement Officer Jim Morganson.
Cory Rothamel, owner of Blue Line Sports, said the sign laws will discourage people from starting businesses in Saranac Lake.
The debate over the definition of a sign was prompted by anonymous complaints about window decals at TLCIL, Eye Care and Upstate Vinyl Graphics. Worthington issued violations to those businesses.
During a public hearing prior to the board's ruling, TLCIL Executive Director Nathan Cox said he conducted his own survey of village businesses and found that 37 have signs that violate the code because of their size. Richard Schmidt, owner of Upstate Vinyl Graphics, which was also given a notice for violating the sign law, said Worthington will be busy enforcing the code because of the ZBA's decision.
ZBA member Patricia Hillman said she thinks the signs at both businesses could be considered "prohibited signs" under village code.
"Under 'prohibited signs' it says, 'signs placed upon a structure in any manner so as to disfigure or conceal any window, door or fire escape,'" she said.
Hillman noted that decals at both businesses prevent people from looking inside the buildings.
Cox disagreed, noting that the decals provide privacy to customers.
It cost TLCIL and Eye Care $175 each to seek an interpretation from the ZBA. If they choose to apply for permits – which Worthington said will most likely be rejected – it will cost another $50. To seek a variance to keep their signs, they must pay $250.


text: Wrangler Cowboy Cut jeans are a Western Wear icon. The Cowboy Cut jean was built to the detailed specifications of top rodeo athletes with features designed for riding - but great for every cowboy - including heavyweight denims, rivets on all pockets, strong double stitched outseams, and higher positioned back pockets. Dress like a true cowboy wearing these Cowboy Cut Silver Edition Wrangler jeans. The jeans feature an original fit. Traditional five-pocket styling. Button waist with zipper fly. Wrangler Silver Edition label is displayed on back right pocket. Imported. HC - Black Denim is made of 14.25 oz cotton denim. X5 - Dark Denim is made of 14.75 oz cotton denim.


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Pink Round Woven Storage
- Overview
Soft yet strong, these woven designs are perfect in the nursery and for storing busy toddlers' favorite things.
- Small (without handle): 13" diameter, 10" high
- Medium (without handle): 17" diameter, 12" high
- Large (without handle): 20" diameter, 14" high
- Constructed of a cotton/polyester blend.
- Baskets are braided with two handles.
- Dimensions & Care
- Blend of 50% cotton, 50% polyester
- Small (without handle): 13" diameter, 10" high
- Medium (without handle): 17" diameter, 12" high
- Large (without handle): 20" diameter, 14" high
- Handle (2): 4" long
- Spot clean.
- Shipping & Return Info
This is a general shipping item.
View Our Shipping Information
Return Policy
At Pottery Barn Kids, we take great pride in the quality and craftsmanship of our products. Attention to design, materials, safety and construction is our priority. We carefully inspect your order prior to shipment; upon receipt, please inspect your purchase and notify us of any damage. We will arrange for a prompt replacement. If, within 7 days for Quick Ship upholstery and 30 days for all other products, you are dissatisfied for any reason, you may return your purchase for a refund of the merchandise value.
If your return for Merchandise Credit Cards is greater than $10,000, we will issue $10,000 in Merchandise Credit Cards to you that day, and then mail additional Merchandise Credit Card(s) for the amount in excess of $10,000 to you.
We cannot accept returns on monogrammed, personalized, special-order items, or on items damaged through normal wear and tear. We also cannot accept returns of final-sale items, which are identified by a price that ends in $0.99.
For returns of items purchased from your Pottery Barn Kids registry, we will gladly provide a refund or exchange for the merchandise within 90 days of your event or within 90 days of purchase, whichever date is later.
For assistance, please contact Customer Service at 800.993.4923
International Returns: Online returns are available only for items that were shipped to the United States. If you would like to return items that were shipped outside the US, please see International Returns and Exceptions.


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Because there's always enough bacon to go around. Unless you run out of pig. You can also find Make Bacon Not War in the brought back from the dead Downloads section (in the site menu above). You'll also find a less nauseating, non-striped version of Make Bacon Not War in the Downloads section.
Who wants this as a T-Shirt? Leave your comment below.
For your desktop or laptop:
Download Make Bacon Not War - 1920x1080 - (200.61 kB)
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And to settle any qualms about Bacon Gate, here are links to bacon lists that existed BEFORE my list of 101 Bacon Products for Fans of the Other White Meat:
Bacon Bacon Everywhere: Top 10 Ways To Love Your Bacon (November 2008)
11 of the Worst Bacon Products Ever Produced (July 31, 2009)
The 10 Weirdest Bacon Products on the Market (October 21, 2009)
20 of The Craziest Bacon Products Around (January 12, 2010)
Wallpaper inspiration credit awarded to OvenRude aka Matt Borchert. Thanks Matt for making my evening so eventful.


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|How much should I save before moving to Lake Worth from out of state? (41 replies)
|Is it safe to bike around the Lake Worth and West Palm Beach areas? (17 replies)
|The Fountains in Lake Worth, Smith Farm, Woods Walk (11 replies)
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|Lake Worth-What do I need to know? (19 replies)


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Go Hug Yourself
Purchase Tickets
By popular demand, "Go Hug Yourself" returns to Donny's Skybox for a second round, just in time for your Aunt Trudy to see some Real Chicago Comedy during her annual visit. After the initial smash hit, sell-out run this winter, Lizzie Cross and Seth Zimmerman's debut production returns with some new faces, new jokes, and even more hugs.
"Go Hug Yourself" is a sketch show for those of us who believe that the best thing you can do with a feeling is keep it to yourself. Join us as we navigate the emotional minefields of dating, work, marriage and life in Chicago.
Written and Produced by Lizzie Cross and Seth Zimmerman
Directed by Teri Jo Rask
Starring Adam Archer, Brooke Elbrecht, Collin Dahlgren, Dylan Hackworth, Yvette Rebik and Megan Steidl


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Looking for Siemens hearing aids in Monebello? We've got you covered! Over the past few years, Hearing Tracker has helped thousands of people find the high-quality hearing help they need. Browse over 15 hearing centers that work with Siemens near Monebello. Hearing Tracker is independently owned and operated.
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You are Here:
/ Comprehensive Nutrient Management Program (CNMP)
A Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan, or CNMP, is a conservation plan unique to animal feeding operations. An animal feeding operation or AFO is categorized as a lot or facility where:
animals have been, are, or will be stabled or confined and fed or maintained for a total of 45 days or more in a 12-month period, and
where crops, vegetation, forage growth, or post harvest residues are not sustained in the normal growing season over any portion of the lot of facility.
A CNMP includes a grouping of conservation practices and management activities which, when implemented as part of a conservation system, will help ensure that both production and natural resource protection goals are achieved. For specific information on AFOs by county in Pennsylvania, visit EPA Region III.
The development of a CNMP requires a comprehensive engineering and conservation planning resource assessment of current site conditions. Management options and structural alternatives are developed to address resource concerns identified during the assessment.
At a minimum, a CNMP must address quality criteria to the sustainable level of soil erosion and water quality for the planning unit associated with the animal feeding operation.
Any CNMP that is developed by NRCS or partner employee must be approved by a Certified Conservation Planner.
Each CNMP must include Environmental Compliance for the planned system and may be comprised of six possible elements:
1. Manure and Wastewater Handling and Storage - a technical element
2. Land Treatment Practices - a technical element
3. Nutrient Management (planned for three future years) a technical element
4. Record Keeping (non-technical element)
5. Feed Management – a technical element (optional, as needed)
6. Other Utilization Options – a technical element for manure not applied to land (optional, as needed)
The documents on this page require Adobe Acrobat Reader.
Pennsylvania's CNMP Statement of Work (PDF, 28KB) provides for a concise listing of all required CNMP components.
General requirements applicable to entire CNMP
o Signature Page and Checklist for CNMP Practice/Activity Code 102 (located in PA eFOTG Section III)
o Environmental Compliance Documentation
Requirements for each technical element are provided in the links below.
o Manure and Wastewater Handling and Storage (HTML)
o Manure and Wastewater Handling and Storage (PDF, 21KB)
o CNMP Engineering Inventory Worksheet (PDF, 177KB)
o CNMP Inventory & Evaluation Report Checklist (PDF, 1MB)
o Land Treatment Practices
o Nutrient Management planned for three future years
o Recordkeeping (PDF, 496KB)
o Feed Management
o Other Utilization Options (optional, as needed)
Special Note on Record Keeping (a non-technical element)
Record keeping is a task completed solely by the owner and/or operator and is not an element that involves an approval by a certified specialist. The CNMP document must include record keeping guidance for the landowner/operator.
TechReg Certification is required of all TSPs who sign a PA CNMP Plan and Element Approval Signature Page and Checklist.
CNMP Plan Approval
CNMP Plan Approval certification is required for any TSP who approves a total CNMP package including all technical elements and Environmental Compliance documentation. The TSP who approves the total CNMP is responsible for ensuring that the producer plays an active role in the development of the plan and that the plan satisfies the objectives of the producer. The TSP who approves the total plan also certifies that all technical elements are correct, complete, and meet NRCS requirements. The final CNMP must be delivered to and reviewed with the producer and the producer must be satisfied with the plan before it can be certified. NRCS will review the first CNMP approved by each TSP with CNMP Plan Approval certification.
Technical Element Development
Each technical element of a CNMP must be developed by a TSP who is certified in TechReg in the appropriate CNMP Plan Development category. Each technical element of the CNMP requires a certain level of acquired expertise to adequately address. To adequately address a specific CNMP element requires the planning and implementation of conservation practices that address the resource concerns identified during the conservation planning process. An individual who has a demonstrated competency in planning and implementing conservation practices associated with one or more of the specific CNMP elements is qualified for the designation "certified specialist," and may become certified at the NRCS TechReg website.
TechReg Certification Requirement Process
Participating TSPs are required to be certified by NRCS through the TechReg process and appear on the TechReg website. Click here to learn more about the TechReg process. TechReg certification categories for CNMP are as follows:
CNMP Plan Approval
CNMP Plan Development - Feed Management
CNMP Plan Development - Land Treatment
CNMP Plan Development - Manure and Wastewater handling and storage
CNMP Plan Development - Nutrient Management
Minimum Standards for TSPs providing Conservation Technical Assistance Associated with CNMPs
Minimum requirements for certification are established for certified specialists who develop CNMP elements or approve CNMPs. The NRCS state conservationist has established a certification program to satisfy these requirements. To review TSP certification qualifications required to develop and approve individual CNMP elements and/or to become a certified conservation planner with CNMP Plan Approval authority click here (PDF, 29KB). After meeting requirements listed in the linked document, go to TechReg to continue certification process.
Quality Assurance
NRCS will review the first CNMP approved by each TSP with CNMP Plan Approval certification. All CNMPs are subject to annual 5 percent quality assurance review and random spot-checking at any time.
Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plans (CNMP) Completed by Technical Service Providers (TSP) in EQIP contracts
CNMPs shown as a practice in an EQIP contract must be completed and approved by certified TSPs listed in TechReg in the correct categories in order for the farmer to receive reimbursement. The overall CNMP must be approved by a TSP who is currently listed in TechReg as having "CNMP Plan Approval" certification and qualified by NRCS as a Certified Conservation Planner before reimbursement to a farmer can be made by USDA NRCS within an EQIP contract for the development and approval of a CNMP. EQIP contracts included in this requirement are those CNMP Plan Approval contracts that have a single Contract Item: "Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan." In addition to the "CNMP Plan Approval" signature, all other required technical elements of the CNMP must be developed and signed off on the PA CNMP Signature Page and Checklist by a TSP who is certified in that specific CNMP category. It is not acceptable to merely have the knowledge or training; the person must be listed in TechReg as being certified in that category in order to approve that element as being technically adequate. Other supporting consultants may contribute information but only a certified TSP may approve the element or plan.
Please Read Carefully
Before USDA NRCS will reimburse a farmer through an EQIP contract for receipt of a CNMP written by a TSP, a copy of the plan including the completed Signature Page and Checklist for CNMP Practice/Activity Code 102 (Located in PA eFOTOG Section III) must be submitted to the local NRCS office along with a copy of the Practice Approval and Payment Application Form NRCS-CPA-1245 that has been signed by the farmer. These two documents are normally submitted to NRCS by the farmer, although the TSP may submit the CNMP on behalf of the farmer. The farmer should receive his/her own copy of the CNMP to keep and use. For the EQIP program, the checklist must be signed by a TSP certified in the Technical Registry category "CNMP Plan Approval" on the line labeled "CNMP Plan Approval." Any Specialist who certifies an individual CNMP element as being technically adequate must be a TSP certified in the appropriate certification category below.
For Plans written outside of EQIP Contracts
CNMPs that are written outside of an EQIP contract can be approved by any Certified Conservation Planner who has had their first CNMP product reviewed and accepted by the Pennsylvania NRCS CNMP review team. Any Specialist who certifies an individual CNMP element as being technically adequate must be either a TSP certified in the appropriate certification category OR an NRCS employee or partner with equivalent Job Approval Authority or others with NRCS recognized qualifications.
Field Office Resources
CNMP Work Order Process
The purpose of the Work Order is to help the farmer explain what the CNMP must include when he is interviewing perspective TSPs to develop his EQIP CNMP. Provide the Work Order to the farmer when contracting an EQIP TSP developed CNMP. The farmer may provide the Work Order to perspective TSPs when negotiating the development of their agreement. This may avoid confusion between the farmer and the TSP.
Receiving CNMPs developed by TSP for an EQIP contract
When receiving a CNMP written and approved by a TSP for an EQIP contract, Field Office staff should check the CNMP for completeness, i.e., make sure each of the required elements and all required Environmental Compliance is included in the CNMP documentation. The following Quality Control documents are provided to facilitate the check-in process:
Field Office Worksheet for TSP TechReg and State Office Verification (PDF, 24KB)
PA CNMP Acceptance Checklist for CNMPs Completed by TSPs (PDF, 21KB)
Pennsylvania CNMP Contacts
NRCS Home | USDA.gov | Site Map | Civil Rights | FOIA | Plain Writing | Accessibility Statement
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Disappearance of U.S. exceptionalism
The United States reached a pinnacle of exceptionalism during the period from World War II through the mid-1970s. America came to the aid of the free world and, after the war, led a restructuring of economic and financial institutions and revitalization of the world economy. America exhibited exceptionally broad-based industrial and human capabilities during the war and high moral values and wise economic policies afterward; in turn, the postwar global economy was exceptionally profitable for the United States.
Additionally, historic economic gains of the period from post-WWII through the 1970s brought unprecedented economic prosperity to the United States, which was equitably shared among all income segments and significantly improved the average well-being of the population. Unfortunately, this era of pre-eminent global exceptionalism has been gradually squandered since the 1970s as wealth, greed and ideology have gradually suffocated attempts to promote human rights, social justice and the common good. The robber barons re-emerged, and America underwent a transition to a second Gilded Age, which brought forth the Great Recession, a rerun of the Great Depression.
Clearly, American capitalism remains exceptional by virtue of its spirit of innovation, entrepreneurship, global economic achievements and creation of abundant wealth. However, its current international ranking among the 20 richest nations of the world in providing for the broad-based well-being of its citizens is dismal, discouraging and immoral. Political and corporate leaders continually preach about America's exceptionalism, but apparently their criteria, as members of the Big Money class and as political power brokers, differ substantially from those of the poor and middle class. As the potential for America's greatness continues to wither, its performance since the 1980s, as experienced by average citizens, does not measure up to greatness, much less exceptionalism.
Consider, from a middle-class prospective, current international data from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development which rank U.S. obesity, life expectancy, infant deaths, teenage births, homicides, imprisonments and general health and social problems as the lowest among the 20 richest nations. Other rankings were second lowest for child well-being and illegal drug use, and fourth worst for math and literacy of 15-year-olds. (footnote 1)
In addition to having the highest income inequality, according to the OECD, America's financially related rankings, based on a nation's percentage of gross domestic product (GDP), include the largest budget debt and lowest gross public spending, taxes paid and foreign aid. Meanwhile, corporate tax revenues as a percentage of GDP have steadily declined from just less than 6 percent in the early 1950s to about 1 percent in 2009. The nation's current net taxes paid, as a percentage of GDP, is less than the post-WWII average. (2) Thus, by an internationally adopted standard, the current net American tax burden is a light load for both individuals and corporations.
But how, during the 1950s and 1960s, was the United States so successful in creating and equitably sharing great prosperity with those citizens who created it, only to see this progressive era fade into the Great Recession? Well, 50 years ago, the United States and European nations collected about the same percentage of total taxes as a percentage of GDP: about 30 percent. However, since 1965, this percentage has remained constant in the United States (that is, no increase in the percentage of GDP devoted to taxes) while European nations increased their percentage from 1965 to 2009, on the average, by 10 percent. (3) Consequently, compared to the United States, at least 19 of the world's most developed nations have a greater degree of income equality, assume a higher tax responsibility and consistently attain higher levels of well-being for a variety of problems across their total populations.
But what American politician could survive an election process preaching a message of severe income inequality? No one could, despite the fact that this fundamental problem with the U.S. economy has denied the middle class a fair share of the nation's historic prosperity, thus lowering the nation's collective purchasing power to the extent of creating a recessionary economy. What corporate executive could survive telling stockholders they should receive a lower return on their investments so as to increase middle-class wages, which have been stagnant for three decades? Furthermore, what political party could survive with a message that, according to accepted international standards, Americans should be paying higher taxes to finance world-class public education, health care, and public and social services?
Obviously, the answer to each question is "none." Such propositions are counter to the prevailing theme that greed is good for America and to the reality that truth is what a culture wishes it to be, as opposed to what it actually is. Such is the myth of trickle-down economics of the post-1980s, associated with the misconception that a free-market economy promotes the general interest of the people. In 1864, Charles Dickens warned in "Hard Times," "I am sure you know that the whole social system is a question of self interest. What you must always appeal to is a person's self interest." (4) In "The End of Laissez-Faire" (1926), John Maynard Keynes also disagreed with those who saw free markets as inherently providing just resolution among competitive forces:
"By the working of natural laws individuals pursuing their own interests with enlightenment in conditions of freedom always tend to promote the general interests. It is not true that individuals possess a prescriptive 'natural liberty' in their economic activities. There is no 'compact' conferring perpetual rights on those who Have on those who Acquire. The world is not so governed from above that private and social interest always coincide. It is not so managed here below that in practice they coincide. It is not a correct deduction from the Principles of Economics that enlightened self interest always operates in the public interest. Nor is it true that self interest generally is enlightened; more often individuals acting separately to promote their own ends are too ignorant or too weak to attain even these. Experience does not show that individuals, when they make up a social unit, are always less clear sighted than when they act separately." (5)
The nation's past internationally recognized and deserved image of having achieved a high degree of exceptionalism has become substantially diluted. The dominant cultural driving forces of this socio-cultural transition have been an infectious, greedy materialism created by historic post-World War II global prosperity and a political right-wing response to the post-1960s progressive civil and human rights revolution. As a consequence, interrelated and interdependent social, economic and political forces have attacked, manipulated and demeaned fundamental democratic principles. The ideological justification offered represents a self-serving and self-righteous brand of narcissistic individualism, a false and perverted sense of "compact conforming perpetual rights that individuals possess a prescriptive 'natural liberty' in their economic activities."
Restoring American exceptionalism begins with renewing the altruistic values of a societal-oriented individualism, re-establishing higher individual and professional ethics, and a recommitment to the principles of Athenian social justice and the public and common good. After all, these are the cultural characteristics that originally created U.S. exceptionalism.
Tom Wallace is a resident of Loon Lake and Bonita Springs, Fla. This is the preface of his new book, "America is Self-Destructing: Wealth, Greed, and Ideology Trump Social Justice and the Common Good."
1. Toynbee, Arnold J. "A Study of History," ab. Sommervell, D.C., New York: Oxford University, 1957, IVI: 273.
2. Ferguson, Niall, "Civilization: The West and the Rest," New York: Penguin Press, 2011, p. xv.
3. Ibid., p. 308.
4. Belluck, Pam, "Medicaid Expansion May Lower Death Rates Study Says," The New York Times, July 26, 2012.
5. Wilkinson and Pickett, "The Spirit Level: Why Greater Equality Makes Societies Stronger," New York: Bloomsbury Press, 2010, p. 80.