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New Canaan girls track team finishes 14th at FCIAC Championships
NEW HAVEN -- There was no stopping the Darien High girls indoor track and field team on Thursday night.
The Blue Wave took first place in seven of the 15 events for a dominating victory at the FCIAC championships at Hillhouse High School. Darien won with 116 points. Ridgefield won a fierce battle for second with 50 points, followed by Staples with 48, Wilton with 44.5 and Greenwich with 44.
"We have a lot of experienced kids who can deal with issues that come up and don't get flustered and know what it's all about," said longtime Darien coach Steve Norris. "Most of these people have been here before. They know where they ranked and they knew what they had to do. They did what they were supposed to do. As a coach, it's kind of easy. In a lot of cases, I'm just sitting back and watching."
Winners for Darien included Maddie Schneider in the pole vault, Grace Loh in the 1,000 meters, Leah Hotchkiss in the high jump, Dillon Schoen in the 600, Taylor McDonald in the shot put, Catherine Lacy in the long jump and the 4x200 relay team of Anna Sulger, Schneider, Elizabeth Fucigna and Schoen.
Wilton's Shannon Quinlan won two individual events, taking first in the 300 and the 55.
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Darien opened the meet with a victory in the 4x200 relay with a time of 1:47.03. The Blue Wave edged Greenwich's quartet of Isabella Narvaez, Anna Black, Emily Johnson and Naomi Leeds by just 15-hundredths of a second.
"The first relay was a key," Norris said. "Clearly it was close, and we knew we had to run well. We ran the second-best time in our history. That kind of set the tone."
Schneider, in particular, enjoyed a torrid start to the meet, winning gold medals in two of the first three events. Not only was she part of that winning Darien relay, but she also won the pole vault by clearing 10-feet-6. Darien's Jessica Thornbury and Ridgefield's Rachel Moroknek tied for second in the pole vault, each clearing 10 feet, and Danbury's Lyzandra Fernandes took fourth, also at 10 feet. Later on, Schneider took third in the 55 hurdles in 9.22 seconds.
Fairfield Warde won the 4x800 relay, with the team of Cate Allen, Katie Tangney, Paige Hanley and Caroline Keough finishing in 9:46.45. Allen later won the 1,600. Ridgefield's 4x800 team of Laura Hergenrother, Sarah Mickool, Hannah Fleming and Sarah Guillaume took second in 9:50.59. Hergenrother later took second in the 1,000 in 3:07.20. Darien's Loh won the 1,000 in 3:03.76, followed by Hergenrother in second in 3:07.20 and Greenwich's Jennifer Goggin in third in 3:10.18.
Darien extended its early lead by taking first and second in the high jump, the fifth event of the evening. Hotchkiss won, clearing 5-feet-2, followed by Catherine Lacy at 5 feet. Danbury's Fernandez finished third at 4-10. That upped the Blue Wave's leading point total to 55. Ridgefield was second after five events with 24.
Darien also took the top two places in the 600 meters, with Schoen winning in 1:36.08 and Sulger taking second in 1:36.46. Sulger later took second in the 300 in 41.42.
McMahon's Sarah Boyd won the 55 hurdles in 9.11, followed by Norwalk's Tamia Taylor in second in 9.34. Quinlan won the 55 meters for Wilton in 7.46, followed by Anna Black of Greenwich in 7.49 and Taylor in third in 7.50.
Westhill's Claire Howlett took second in the 1,600 in 5:06.35 and Staples' Hannah Dibalsi took third in 5:07.27. Later in the meet, Howlett won the 3,200 in 10:48.08 and was followed by Dibalsi in second (10:50.41) and Hergenrother in third (11:39.59).
McDonald won the shot put for Darien with a throw of 32-1.75. Julia Spinnelli of St. Joseph was second at 31-10, followed by Danbury's Jessica Robbins (30-9.75) and Tamika Lynch (30-1.5).
After 10 events, Darien had all but locked up the team title, with a 69-point lead on the second-place team. That set up a battle for second place, with Staples, Ridgefield, Wilton, Danbury, Greenwich and Fairfield Warde separated by a mere eight points with five events remaining.


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Apparently, somebody complained about the above clip from Family Guy, and
"The Canadian Broadcast Standards Council ruled on Thursday that the broadcaster did a good job warning viewers about sexual content and bad language in the show, but didn't provide a heads up about violence. To make amends, Global [the broadcaster] must tell its viewers it violated the Canadian Association of Broadcasters' Violence code during prime time viewing hours, and then repeat the message once more time at any time."The idea that anybody watching Family Guy would find this shocking is shocking to me. In fact, the idea that anybody watches Family Guy is shocking to me. However, I do sleep better at night knowing that the Canadian Broadcast Standards Council won't allow Bugs Bunny to die unless viewers are warned in advance.


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Wednesday, September 8, 2010
The Nativity of Our Lady
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"The Catholic Church is for saints and sinners alone. For respectable people the Anglican Church will do."
Oscar Wilde
"Letting oneself be 'tossed here and there, carried about by every wind of doctrine', seems the only attitude that can cope with modern times. We are building a dictatorship of relativism that does not recognise anything as definitive and whose ultimate goal consists solely of one's own ego and desires."
Pope Benedict XVI


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Information by Country
Timor-Leste: Background
The struggle for independence resulted in the destruction of the physical infrastructure of the country. Up to 70 per cent of all buildings were damaged, including the great majority of government structures (offices, schools, health centres, etc).
Human capital was likewise removed from the country. More than 250,000 people left during the violence, and around 100,000 remain outside the country. These include most of the experienced managers during the Indonesian administration, as well as senior staff from schools, hospitals and other government services. Educational, medical and other services will have to be established to respond to the needs of the Timorese.
Health services were partially restored during 2000-2001, but they remain inadequate. Infant mortality is estimated at 85 per 1,000 live births, and the maternal mortality ratio is 800 per 100,000 live births. Child morbidity is high, due mainly to infectious and parasitic diseases and persistent malnutrition. In the late 1990s, 45 per cent of children under five years old were underweight, and many suffered from vitamin A and iron deficiencies. Many women are also anaemic, increasing the risk of haemorrhage during delivery. A lack of trained birth attendants and poor access to emergency obstetric care aggravate the situation. More than 80 per cent of births take place in the home, and there is a high incidence of low birth weight, although the actual level is unknown.
The basic infrastructure for immunization has been re-established, but coverage remains low. Awareness of the benefits of immunization is weak and drop-out rates are high. Coverage with the anti-tuberculosis (BCG) vaccine, for example, reached 70 per cent in 2001, whereas only about one third of the target group was reached with all three doses of polio and combined diphtheria/pertussis/tetanus vaccines. UNICEF estimates that approximately 20 per cent of the rural population have access to safe water and 10 per cent to adequate sanitation facilities. Nearly all schools have required significant repairs to latrine and water facilities following the crisis.


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I'm feeling a bit melancholy these days. Nothing serious, just the convergence of a few factors.
First, a difficult anniversary is coming up. There hasn't been an Easter in over a decade that this underlying feeling of loss has failed to make an appearance. I don't look for it, but when it arrives I just nod my head in recognition: a not-so-welcome friend that is in town for the annual visit. The visit won't last forever.
Second, I'm learning the meaning of "sandwich generation." My father was very ill last week, hospitalized for eight days. During that time, my mother came down with a nasty respiratory virus. They were both sick, sick pups. I live four hours (on a good traffic day) away from my parents. I have young children in school. I've never been so miserable, having to be in one place, but needing to be in another. My brother (my hero!) was able to get away for a few days to take care of them. I found a substitute preacher for Palm Sunday and spent the weekend with them, trying to help out. Thank God we were able to bring Dad home from the hospital on Saturday. Trying to take care of my dad (in the hospital), my mom (at home), and making sure my kids were taken care of (Aunts? Cousins? Help, please?) was a major stress factory. My parents are getting better, but I learned that being caught between the needs of two generations is no fun. I'm suddenly not such a fan of sandwiches.
Third, It's Holy Week. I remember, in my pre-pastorate days, when this was a deeply meaningful, spiritually renewing time for me. Back then I was a teacher. Our spring break often coincided with Holy Week. I was able to take the whole week to read, to write, to think, and to connect with the enormity of what this week means. Please don't think I'm awful, but becoming a pastor has ruined Holy Week for me. It is now pressure-cooker week. It is manic week. It is exhausting week. I remember the conversations that Susan and I had in the week before her death. (See melancholy reason #1 above.) I felt so sacrilegious as we commiserated together over how ready we were to get Jesus back out of that tomb again so we could get back to normal. (Okay, add to this reason the immense guilt I feel at even making such a confession. I feel like such a bad pastor!)
Finally – and I'm almost as ashamed of this reason as I am the previous one – I'm just a wee bit envious. Well, maybe more than a wee bit. It seems that the publishing/scholarship/workshop gods are smiling fondly on a LOT of my blogging friends and acquaintances. I am so excited for them. Every one of them receiving these great breaks deserves it. Still, it feels kind of like being the last one who hasn't been invited to the prom. What makes matter worse, even if I was invited to the prom (um, given the opportunity to go bigger with my writing) I'm not sure I know how to do my hair, my make-up, or my nails. And I know I can't dance worth a darn. (In other words, I don't know how to do anything beyond plugging away at my blog and writing weekly sermons, and I'm not sure I have what it takes to go beyond that, especially when I find myself awkwardly mixing odd metaphors.) The frustration is uncomfortable. The envy is unattractive. Then just when I needed it most, I ran across this blog post, which gave me words I needed to hear today.
I know my uninvited "friend" will go away in another week or two. I believe my parents are getting better every day. I know that when time for worship on Maundy Thursday rolls around, I will feel the sacred heaviness of that night. My spirits will be lifted as the sun rises over the Cooper River during our Easter Sunrise Service. The worship – especially the music – of Easter Sunday will breathe life back into my tired soul. I'll keep plugging away at my blog, enjoying the play with words, all while trying to trust God's timing. The melancholy isn't here to stay.
~ Embracing what is. Trusting what will be. (Or at least trying!) ~


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Comics, book, and DVD reviews (and occasional eruptions of other kinds)
Monday, February 8, 2010
Comics Reviews: DISNEY'S HERO SQUAD #1 and WIZARDS OF MICKEY #1 (Boom! Kids, January 2010)
In its opening 14 pages, HERO SQUAD #1 bravely faces the "New World" -- and quails ever so slightly. Though described as a "super-slugfest," the latest chapter in the "Ultramachine" saga features hardly any violence at all, super or otherwise. Indeed, "Iron" Gus Goose foils the attempt of John D. Rockerduck (aka "Roller Dollar") to locate Ultrapod-6 by doing nothing more than falling asleep and discombobulating Rockerduck's "cyborg-miners" with his snoring! Fethry "The Red Bat" shows a little more initiative, scandalizing the Pod-5-seeking Phantom Blot by tromping on The Blot's obsidian instep after all manner of "Bat-repellers" have failed to foil the villain. (I thought The Blot's most recent appearance had established that his body is liquid in nature? Fethry's folly is nicely reminiscent of a Warner Bros. or Darkwing Duck gag, regardless.) Elsewhere, The Beagle Boys again screw up Scrooge's attempt to escape The Sinister 7's clutches, while Donald and Daisy, still clueless to one another's crushingly obvious secret identities, meet in Duckburg and bicker in approved Duck Avenger/Super Daisy style. Really, that's all there is to this "collector's issue" insofar as Ultraheroes material goes. Even the artwork, by Roberta Migheli, falls well below the series' genially disheveled, eminently surmountable standard. Boom! probably could have picked a better moment at which to launch HERO SQUAD than this.
The ish's big surprise comes after the Ultraheroes segment, when the "powers-that-edit" abruptly decide to provide some much-needed historical perspective and announce a new subfeature detailing "the secret beginnings of your favorite Ultraheroes!". Better late than never! Taking the first bow is Super Goof in Bob Ogle and Paul Murry's "The Thief of Zanzipar", from SUPER GOOF #1 (1965). Actually, SG had made a couple of appearances before this "origin tale," but this story firmly establishes the Super Goobers as the one true source of Goofy's powers and gives SG his first "official" adventure. The amusing script and first-class Murry artwork are pleasant reminders of Gold Key's golden years. Two problems "grody" up the Goobers, however. First, we only get the first nine of the story's 16 pages, meaning that we'll have to wait an extra issue before another Ultrahero gets his or her chance to shine. Second, Goofy's face is, I kid you not, a light purple in color! I suppose that's better than Goofy the Genie's entire body being colored blue for the WDC&S #584 reprint of the 1960s story "A Lad 'n His Lamp," but it still looks really, really peculiar, especially since no other character in the story gets a mauve makeover. Colorist Eric Cobain needs to look into this before worried fans begin to write in offering to perform the Heimlich Maneuver on Goofy.
If HERO SQUAD stumbles a bit out of the gate, then WIZARDS OF MICKEY -- once you get past the well-designed logo -- tromps on the reader's face and laughs in the process. Well, at least for a brief moment. The narrative quickly wraps up the "Team Diamond Moon" subplot in fairly slick fashion, giving "Princess Minnie" a back story and permitting Mickey a moment of true nobility to boot, but then hoots with derision in the faces of those who've complained of Boom!'s awkward handling of splits in its chapter arcs: "Stay tuned for the next episode... See you here soon! Like now! No, seriously, turn the page!" Then follows the title page of the next chapter, "The Dragon's Nest." The only good thing about this remarkably inartful editorial decision is that it doesn't involve any misspellings. "The Dragon's Nest" itself is fine, with "Wizards of Mickey" outpointing a team of... erm, they kinda look like Muppets, I guess... for a "light diamagic" and forging ahead to isolated Crow Fortress to fight for the "sleep diamagic" (though Goofy's lullabies may work just as effectively, at least on animals). The "Lord of Deception," meanwhile, thinks that he may finally have a lead on the location of the Dragons' Kingdom, thanks to the imprisoned Nereus' unwitting assistance. I must admit to being surprised by the speed with which "Team Diamond Moon" was discarded -- I had expected them to become steady allies of "WOM," at the very least -- but perhaps Minnie, Daisy, and Clarabelle will reappear in later chapters. Frustratingly, the inside front cover of the book boasts what appears to be a map of the setting for these sorcery stories, but it's too small and faint to read. Why not create a fold-out version as a keepsake of this first issue? That would have been a great way to attract attention from the casual rack-browser. Leaving aside the painful editorial leg-pulling, WIZARDS OF MICKEY continues to rival the "Double Duck" arc in DONALD DUCK AND FRIENDS as the best of Boom!'s "New Direction" material.
5 comments:
- Cobain's PunkRock Cartoons said...
- This comment has been removed by the author.
- February 9, 2010 at 5:08 AM
- ramapith said...
Chris, "The Thief of Zanzipar" is a 16-page story, not a 32-pager. I'm not sure what Boom is planning next, but I presume "Zanzipar" will wrap next issue.
- February 9, 2010 at 10:27 AM
- Chris Barat said...
You got me on that one. And I had accessed InDucks while writing the review, too. Guess I was too lazy to actually look at the number. I'll make the necessary correction.
Cobain PRC,
Does anybody REALLY know what purple is? Should anybody really care?
Seriously, my frame of reference is the "Gladstone I" era, when Goofy and Mickey were usually depicted with white faces. I recall that Gold Key used white a lot of the time as well. That caused the tinge of Goofy's face (and yes, it really DOES look like purple to me, with a touch of clay) to stand out when I saw the story.
- February 9, 2010 at 1:54 PM
- Joe Torcivia said...
Don't be lazy and rely on InDucks! ALWAYS look up the book, if it is one in your possession! We know certain things even they don't. Rely on your vast bank of knowledge and possessions over all else, Grasshopper!
In the "Silver Age" comic book interiors (Dell and Gold Key) Mickey and Goofy had WHITE FACES. 'Nuff said!
I'm glad to see Super Goof regardless!
- February 10, 2010 at 11:59 AM
- Chris Barat said...
I don't think I actually OWN SUPER GOOF #1... but I sure as heck could have looked up the story in YOUR SUPER GOOF INDEX!
Blame weariness caused by snow shoveling for this four-color faux pas.
- February 10, 2010 at 1:04 PM


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The Mazda2 is subcompact car that has been manufactured by the Japanese automaker since 1996. The car was previously marketed as the Mazda 121 and the Metro. Presently, the car is in its third generation and is sold globally as the Mazda2. The third generation Mazda2 was launched in 2008 and critically acclaimed, winning the World Car of the Year award. The North American version of the Mazda2 was unveiled at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show, and it was the first subcompact offered by Mazda since the 323 was discontinued in 1994.
The Mazda2 was the latest introduction in the Mazda series of small-size hatchback models that offered great fuel economy. It was a viable alternative for people who wanted a car that could meet their needs instead of being a symbol of indulgence.
While the vehicle may not be the most spacious car in its class or a hallmark of premium car design, it's worth consideration if you just want a car that can get you from point A to point B.
From the design perspective, the vehicle's cabin could be considered to be the most notable feature as it is simple, yet modern. There are no elements to bemoan or fawn over. Though hard plastics are plentiful in the Mazda2, it is not entirely unexpected. The front seats of the car are relatively comfortable and offer enough leg room for taller passengers.
Nearly all entry-level hatchbacks started to get better with each year.
The 2012 Mazda2 is a sub-compact four-door hatchback. Power is delivered by a four-cylinder 1.5-liter engine that has the capability to generate 100 hp and 98 lb-ft of torque. While a five-speed manual transmission is standard in the vehicle, a four-speed automatic transmission is optional.
The Mazda2 is offered in two trim levels. The entry-level Sport variant is available with several desirable standard features such as air-conditioning, keyless entry, a four-speaker MP3/CD system with an auxiliary audio input jack, and full power accessories. In addition to the features in the Sports model, the Touring variant has alloy wheels, cruise control, a leather-wrapped wheel, fog lights, and a six-speaker sound system. However, these features would mean nothing to car enthusiasts who could get their hands on the latest cutting-edge technology available in several competitor models, including an iPod interface, a navigation system, and Bluetooth; which, incidentally, are not even offered in the premium version of the Mazda2.
The Mazda2 suffers from a lack of telescoping steering, which is undeniably a notable omission. The rear seats are quite disappointing as they're cramped and flat. If the rear seats are kept in place, the cargo capacity of the car stands at 13.3 cubic feet. This is quite small for a hatchback. The figure goes up to 27.8 cubic feet when the 60/40 seats are folded. However, they don't fold completely flat.
The four-cylinder 100 hp engine of the Mazda2 leaves much to be desired in terms of performance, particularly as compared to a four-speed automatic transmission system. Regardless of the small engine, the fuel economy, which has become one of the biggest selling points of subcompacts, is not exceptional in the case of the Mazda2. The Environmental Protection Agency pegged the fuel economy rate of the car at 29/35 mpg city/highway for the manual transmission models, and 27/33 mpg city/highway for automatic transmission models.
While the Mazda2 is equipped with a five-speed manual gear box, its pinpoint steering and very well-tuned suspensions offer both a decent ride quality and nimble handling. This compensates a great deal for the engine's shortcomings.
The light 2300 pound curb weight helps reduce pressure on the free-revving engine and lends a sportier feel to the hatchback. Additionally, it also assists in the car's handling. This has made the Mazda2 one of the most nimble vehicles in its class. The steering wheel is both quick and communicative, a very favorable trait among power steering units.
In the year of its introduction, the car had the standard safety features. These included the anti-lock brakes with drums in the rear and discs in the front, side-curtain airbags, front-seat side airbags, and traction and stability control. The car was able to come to a stop from 60 mph within less than 130 ft. This is an acceptable distance for such a car. In the crash tests conducted by Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the Mazda2 was awarded a top rating of ""good"" with regard to the roof strength tests and front offset tests. The Mazda2 was given the second-best rating of ""acceptable"" with regard to the side-impact test. Major technical specifications of the car were carried over to the 2012 model.
2014 Mazda Mazda2
Compact, Hatchback
2013 Mazda Mazda2
The 2013 Mazda MAZDA2 is the entry-level subcompact hatchback that was first introduced in North America for the 2011 model year, although it has been available globally for much longer.
2012 Mazda Mazda2
In only its second year, Mazda left the vehicle basically unchanged. The automatic transmission is now a little more efficient, and gets 1 mpg more in the city and on the highway.
2011 Mazda Mazda2
Since it is the Mazda2's first year in the lineup, everything is essentially new. Those looking for something entry level but with enough interior comforts and technology, should opt for the Sport model. The Touring edition throws in a few more standard accessories like chrome exhaust tips, fog lights, 15-inch alloy wheels, and a trip computer.


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He grew up in Crookston and still has family here.
Richard Odell Olson, 70, of Sanford, Michigan died Saturday morning, November 24, 2012 at his home. He was born May 2, 1942 at St. Luke's Hospital in Duluth, Minnesota, son of Odell H. and Joyce A. Olson. He grew up in Crookston, Minnesota and graduated from Crookston Central High School. He earned his BS and MS degrees from the University of North Dakota. Richard was a member of the National Guard for six years. On June 29, 1985 he married Lynne Allsup in Sanford. Richard taught Industrial Education at Bullock Creek High School and Middle School, retiring after thirty-seven years of service. He enjoyed biking and hiking, and after retirement, his woodworking skills kept him busy with projects around the house and doing things for friends.
He will be missed by his wife, Lynne; his mother, Joyce Olson of Crookston, Minnesota; sisters and brother, Gail Schultz of Crookston, Minnesota, Gary (Deb) Olson of Minneapolis, Minnesota, and Joydell (Jim) Alexander of Cook, Minnesota; and by many friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Odell H. Olson.
Memorial services for Richard took place Friday, November 30, 2012 at the Ware-Smith-Woolever Funeral Chapel, 1200 West Wheeler Street with the Reverend Anthony N. Cutting of the Sanford United Methodist Church presiding.
Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider the Sanford United Methodist Church, 2560 N West River Rd, Sanford MI 48657, or American Hospice Care, 2575 N McLeod Dr Suite C, Saginaw MI 48604, or Senior Services, 4700 Dublin Ave, Midland MI 48642.
Online memorials and condolences may be made through www.waresmithwoolever.com


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Tuesday, December 27, 2011
* Christmas 2011 Highlights From the Pink and Green Mama Household
I thought I'd spend this rainy, gray morning sharing a few favorite
Christmas weekend highlights from our family to yours.
On Christmas Eve, the girls made birdseed ornaments,
(the ones that have been ALL over Pinterest) with gelatin and corn syrup.
Can you tell what "E" thought of the smell? Hee-hee!
This little Etsy treasure was a gifty from my sweet hubby.
He gets me. Mama's coffee is very cozy now.
The girls painted a few of these sweet little wooden birdie ornaments
for our tree, here's my little blue bird friend painted by "E." So friendly.
This was "C"s preschool gift to mommy and daddy, of course she wrapped it in pink!
Love the little fingerprint ornaments on the homemade card.
There were lots of fun homemade gifts this year.
Daddy enjoying his first back rub in his homemade back rub shirt from the girls!
"E" made these awesome toilet paper tube angry birds for her daddy,
all by herself - I'll post details later.
I made wooden fire and water stacker puzzles for the girls.
Snuggling my sweeties on Christmas morning in our PJs.
"E" and Daddy assembling Lego Hogwarts.
Afternoon shadows in the playroom window.
Grandma and Grandpa spent the afternoon and evening with us,
so we decided to use my camera's timer to take a classy family portrait.
Wishing you a happy holiday season from our family to yours!
pink and green mama
Posted by pink and green mama MaryLea
Labels: Christmas, Homemade Gifts, Making Memories
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The Reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act
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Additional Cross-Cutting Priorities
Throughout this proposal, we have sought to redefine the federal role in education: shifting from a focus merely on compliance to allowing state and local innovation to flourish, rewarding success, and fostering supportive and collaborative relationships with states, districts, and nonprofit partners. There are several cross-cutting changes we are proposing in order to allow local innovations to lead the way and to support the development, identification, and scaling-up of strategies that are working.
A New Approach
- Increasing flexibility in return for improved outcomes.
- Expanding programs, projects, and strategies that show results.
- Focusing on key priorities across programs.
Flexibility for Success
A re-envisioned federal role means giving states and districts additional flexibility in how they spend federal dollars as long as they are continuing to focus on what matters mostimproving outcomes for students. States and districts will be allowed to use most federal administrative funds and reservations flexibly to build their own capacity to support reform and improvement. Most districts will also be allowed to spend more ESEA program funds flexibly, as long as they continue to comply with the conditions associated with those funds and are improving student outcomes.
Growing Success
Where grantees are successfully improving outcomes for students, we should not only reward them, but replicate their successful practices. For each competitive program in this proposal, grantees that are significantly improving outcomes will be eligible for both continuation funds and additional funds to expand their strategies to additional students, schools, districts, or states. This will ensure that federal funds flow to projects that are successfully serving students.
Evaluation and Building the Knowledge Base
To foster ongoing improvement of ESEA programs and to advance knowledge in the field, investments are needed in data analysis and evaluation at the federal, state, and local levels. Consequently, this proposal encourages federal, state, and local levels to work together to use data for continuous improvement, test innovative ideas, evaluate and replicate promising approaches, and scale up what strong research evidence suggests works across all ESEA programs. In addition, a new evaluation authority will authorize rigorous, objective evaluations of ESEA programs, policies, and practices and support performance measurement of those programs. The Secretary will submit to Congress a biennial plan on ESEA evaluation and performance measurement and will establish an independent panel that advises on the plan.
Cross-Cutting Priorities
There are some priorities that are relevant in numerous areas of education reform. We may apply specific priorities across programs, as appropriate, including priorities for:
Technology. Technology, effectively and thoughtfully deployed, can improve how schools work, how teachers teach, and how students learn. Priority may be given to programs, projects, or strategies that leverage digital information or communications technology to accomplish the stated goals of the grant.
Evidence. As evidence develops in new areas, funding should be devoted to the areas with the most evidence of effectiveness in improving outcomes for students. Priority may be given to programs, projects, or strategies on the strength of their evidentiary base.
Efficiency. Particularly in the current economic situation, it is important to do more with fewer resources. Priority may be given to programs, projects, or strategies that are designed to significantly increase efficiency in the use of resources to improve student outcomes.
Supporting English Learners and Students With Disabilities. Schools, districts, and states must be held responsible for educating all students, including English Learners and students with disabilities, to high standards, but more work could be done to develop and scale up effective strategies for these students. Priority may be given to programs, projects, or strategies that are designed to specifically improve the performance of English Learners or students with disabilities.
Supporting Rural and Other High-Need Areas. In new competitive programs, we will be putting in place appropriate strategies to ensure that rural districts and other high-need districts are not disadvantaged and are able to receive the funding they need to help students succeed. Priority may be given to programs or projects designed to serve rural and other high-need areas.


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I wanted to write about this browser-based MMO game called Ironbane for a while, but never actually got around trying it (it's easy though, no need to register for the alpha currently, just hit play; but for me under Linux with Firefox 23 it just kept loading and loading... could have been my very slow connection though). Luckily the creator got into contact with us to remind me about it.
Here is an slightly older video of the tutorial level:
The code (GPLv3) can be accessed on Github, and there is a nice contributors guide. The author also confirmed that there are plans to release all the artworks under CC-by-SA soon, so it can be called a proper FOSS game.
But regardless of that, I feel they need to work on the huge pixel (ok actually texel) density spread, e.g. the strongly different size of individual pixels on the screen ;)
We also asked the creator about any longer plans to commercialize it and this is what he got to offer in that regard:
Which I guess sounds like a good idea to fund further development and hosting costs.When we reach beta we would like to offer optional stuff like houses, special clothes and other things for donations (nothing that can give an unfair advantage). So in a way this can be classified as F2P, yes.
Anyways... unless you live in the same internet darkage like me, there is no reason not to give it a try!


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Kings center Anze Kopitar injured his right knee Saturday while playing for Mora IK of Sweden's Allsvenskan hockey league but preliminary indications were that it's not serious and is not likely to keep him out for more than two to three weeks.
"It's nothing to be alarmed with," Kopitar's agent, Pat Brisson, said by phone.
Brisson said more would be known after Kopitar undergoes tests in the next day or two. Brisson said he had spoken to Kopitar, whom he described as "in good spirits" and not fearful that the injury would prove to be long term.
"It's very minor," Brisson said. "Whether that means a week, two weeks or 10 days, I don't know."
Kings General Manager Dean Lombardi also said via email that it was correct to estimate a recovery time of two to three weeks for Kopitar.
There soon might be NHL games for Kopitar to sit out -- or to play.
Delegations representing the league and the players' association sat together for talks Saturday after spending the previous two days meeting separately and speaking through a federal mediator. The mediator, Scot L. Beckenbaugh, was again involved Saturday after shuttling back and forth between them Friday. Sources familiar with the negotiations but not authorized to speak publicly said progress was slowly being made but there were still issues to be resolved, including the still-contentious terms of the league's liability for players' pensions.


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Real Deal vs Cortez Rap Battle [Grind Time Florida]
Drect reports "Two of the top emcee's from their divisions face off at GrizzleMania in Orlando, FL. "
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We had quite the week – some travels, time with family and friends, and lots of storms! The first day of summer greeted us with this:
We were out of power for about 8 hours, so that in turn meant cleaning out the fridge. It's so hard to throw out food! But, if that's all we lost in this round of storms, I am thankful. We had neighbors and friends who didn't fare so well, and some still without power.
Trees on cars and houses, flooding and more damage were wide spread across the cities; we're hoping we can salvage our tree thanks to our neighbors who helped us get it tied upright again.
Here's hoping this week is a quieter one!
Granola & Blueberries
Crockpot Baked Potato Bar
Whole Wheat Waffles
Spaghetti Braid, Broccoli
Veggie Scramble
BBQ – Turkey Burgers & Sweet Corn
Leftover Waffles
Sweet Potato Risotto, Green Beans
Blueberry Muffin Coffee Cake
Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal
Spinach & Mushroom Quesadillas
Oatmeal Cinnamon Pancakes with Berry Sauce
Smokehouse Maple Chicken Fajitas, Chips & Salsa
In case you missed it, last week our new recipes included:
Crunchy Cranberry Chocolate Granola Bars
Ingredient Spotlight – Mushrooms! A delicious round up of our favorite recipes using mushrooms. Recipes you shared included: Mushroom Fritters, Balsamic Garlic Mushrooms and Healthier Baked Ziti. Yum.
Most Viewed: Sweetened Condensed Milk Ice Cream
Most Shared: Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole
Most Pinned: Toasted Marshmallow S'more Bars
Most Liked: Chocolate Chip Zucchini Cake
Find more great menus at OrgJunkie's Menu Plan Monday!


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When it comes to preseason expectations, especially in football at any level, they are just that — expectations and nothing else. It only becomes reality when the whistle blows and then anything can happen.
When it comes to preseason expectations, especially in football at any level, they are just that — expectations and nothing else. It only becomes reality when the whistle blows and then anything can happen.
Optimism was running at an extremely high level for the Carolina Panthers during the NFL's long offseason. And why not? The Panthers had gone 6-10, a four-game improvement over that disastrous 2010 season, and Cam Newton had a record-breaking season as a rookie quarterback. Surely there would be another step forward in 2012 and a playoff berth.
Ryan Kalil even took out a full-page newspaper ad predicting the Panthers would win the Super Bowl. That's not going to happen. After a 1-4 start, the Panthers will be lucky to win a bowl of cereal.
The Panthers stumbled out of the gate, losing at Tampa Bay. It has stayed mostly downhill since then. The Panthers got humiliated in a Thursday night loss to the New York Giants and they've lost the close ones, like on Sunday when they couldn't score from the 1-yard-line on fourth-and-goal against the Seahawks.
So what happened? Defensive coordinators have caught up with the Panthers' scheme, Newton doesn't check down to secondary receivers, the secondary is a liability, the team has too much money invested in the running back position and so on.
Maybe the expectations were too high to begin with.
Closer to home, Lexington and Thomasville saw their seasons start with gigantic thuds counter to expectations.
Lexington was loaded with high Division I recruit Marquez Grayson, a couple of key transfers from West Davidson and plenty of other talent. The Jackets stumbled to a 1-5 start against a brutal nonconference schedule and Grayson got hurt in the second week. Thomasville was supposed to be, well, Thomasville. The Bulldogs started an unprecedented 0-6, also against rugged nonconference competition.
But in high school football, there is often redemption once conference play begins. Lexington and Thomasville are both 2-0 after two weeks of Central Carolina Conference play, which is what really counts.
As for Lexington, Grayson returned in the Jackets' 29-15 win over East Davidson and was at full speed in a 40-17 victory over West Davidson on Friday. The jury still has to be out for Lexington after beating teams that will probably occupy the last two places in the conference. At least the Jackets are on the right path.
Thomasville started its CCC season with a 42-21 pounding over Central Davidson that the Spartans couldn't have seen coming. After all, the Bulldogs were 0-6. But they seemed to find their way back to being Thomasville again and yet another running back star emerged — Gabe Brockett. The Bulldogs had no trouble with East Davidson. Showdowns loom with Lexington and Salisbury.
The Spartans certainly couldn't have foreseen being 0-2 in the CCC. A conference championship is out of the question barring some huge upsets but a home playoff game in the first round is still attainable.
North Davidson has probably exceeded expectations, which weren't exactly all that low. But 8-0? The Knights have playmakers on offense, defense and special teams. They have no apparent weaknesses. North also controls its own destiny by being in sole possession of first place in the Central Piedmont Conference. If the Knights win out, they win the CPC and get a No. 1 seed in the 4-A state playoffs. That would mean at least two home playoff games and North fans will fill Palmer Field.
The Knights will be favored Friday night at West Forsyth. North whipped Reagan, which beat West Forsyth. The logical conclusion is North will win decisively up in Clemmons but every week is different and Knights coach Mark Holcomb never takes anything for granted.
Mike Duprez can be reached at 249-3981, ext. 218 or firstname.lastname@example.com.


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If you've ever taken a trip to Best Buy, or some other electronics retailer that went out of business trying to compete with the Internet, you've likely walked through isles upon isles of Windows software as you were hunting for something else, like a video game or laptop. Well, no more, my friend. The days of buying Windows in a box may have ended.
In the latest Windows Weekly, co-hosts and Microsoft insiders Mary Jo Foley (ZDNet) and Paul Thurrott (WinSuperSite) speculate that Microsoft may drop boxed software all together, and instead only sell Windows on new computers or as an upgrade over the Internet. This would be the first edition of Windows where the standard edition isn't available for purchase at retail. One important note: Those building their own PC (yep, a few people still do that) might be able to purchase a "System Builder" physical edition, which has been confirmed by Microsoft, according to The Verge. The downloadable upgrade version of Windows 8 will cost $40 when the OS is released this October.
If true, Microsoft will be following in Apple's footsteps. In recent years, Apple has aggressively pushed users to update Mac OS X software over the Internet, offering updates for as little as $20. Finding a boxed copy of the operating system is now quite difficult in our experience. The strategy has been a success so far. Though it is selling updates at a fraction of the $100+ previous price of operating systems, the vast majority of Mac users now update their system instead of waiting to get an upgrade with their next computer — a habit that PC users have always had due to the difficulty and unreliability of Windows upgrades.
(Image courtesy of Zimbio)


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Comics, book, and DVD reviews (and occasional eruptions of other kinds)
Saturday, August 24, 2013
A Fanboy Looks at Fifty... From BOTH Sides
(1) My DUCKTALES RETROSPECTIVE series reaching entry #50 (duh).
(2) Some comments posted by Joe Torcivia in response to my review of "The Right Duck."
(3) My growing interest in My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic -- the TV series itself, that is, as opposed to the comic-book title. (You can tell the difference because I typically use italics for TV series, capital letters for comic-book series.)
Joe started the ball rolling in his response to "kenisu" regarding the subjective nature of fans' reviews of their favorite works:
Chris is one of the best reviewers I've ever been associated with – and together we go back just about as far as DuckTales itself. He does a magnificent job reviewing this series in retrospect – as he (and I) did back when it was "current". But, I don't always agree with him – and that doesn't make his views any less valid than my own. I find that I am far more critical of DT now, than I was then. A combination of no longer being enthralled with the "mere notion" of such a series after too many years of "bad animated programming", Disney-decision-making vs. Barks' original visions, and the fact that other series (mostly from Warner / DC) have surpassed it in overall quality. The great DT eps are still great – but the flaws of the lesser ones have become far more glaring (fairly or unfairly) due to the reasons cited above.
I've gradually come around to the same conclusion as Joe -- that DuckTales, for all its many virtues, has in fact been "passed" by several newer series (I won't be specific). The thing is, it took me a very long while to admit that he was right. You see, my experience with DuckTales mirrors how most people become fans (short for "fanatics," let's not forget) of entertainment products. You start with an emotional commitment to the product. Why did Star Trek become the first and foremost of all "cult TV shows"? Because, at that turbulent time, people desperately wanted to believe that the idealized, cooperative future pictured on the show was possible. The intellectual rationalization for the emotional interest -- all those Klingon vocabularies, character backstories, specs of Starfleet vehicles, and so forth -- followed soon after. In the case of DuckTales, while I had already begun reading Duck comics at the time the show debuted, the TV show was a product that I could literally experience from Day One. I still recall how excited I was when "Treasure of the Golden Suns" aired in its two-hour format, and I still do feel those reverberations. That excitement led to my work with Joe on the DUCKTALES INDEX, and I hope that that same sense of commitment has been visible in the various RETROSPECTIVES columns. I had a similar sort of emotional investment in RICHIE RICH comics, which were the only comics I collected for quite some time. By the time I got to write for Mark Arnold's HARVEYVILLE FUN TIMES!, I was ready to subject those comics to an intellectual (well, quasi-intellectual) examination, writing about the different genres of RICHIE adventure stories and so forth. One of the reasons why I decided to do my Kimba the White Lion columns starting in 2009 was to perform a similar dissection of a TV series for which I had always had a very powerful emotional attachment and had "rediscovered" as an adult.
The problem with the emotional/intellectual paradigm is that, depending upon how emotionally flexible you are, you may have trouble accepting that the thing that you love so much doesn't look quite so good in retrospect. Emotionally and temperamentally, I am much more conservative than the vast majority of my friends and acquaintances, so shoving DT several paces back in the queue was not so easy a task. Depending upon how invested you are in the product, this process can be extremely disconcerting. Reading through all those "great" RICHIE RICH adventure stories and having to pick out all the inconsistencies and logical absurdities was annoying enough, but taking DT down a peg or two was considerably harder.
A while back, I mentioned a piece I wrote for THFT! a few years ago entitled "Free DuckTales!" in which I bemoaned the loss of status that the series had (at least in my eyes) endured among animation fans in general. I tried to walk through it in an even-tempered a manner as possible, and I think that I did a good job, keeping the whining (as opposed to the garden-variety complaining) to a minimum. In retrospect, I see what I was trying to do there: come to intellectual terms with the idea of knocking DT off its pedestal. Emotionally, however, I hadn't quite "bought in" yet.
BronyCon, I saw plenty of evidence that the people in attendance had made intense emotional commitments to the series, with the intellectual activity trailing in its wake. The emotional stakes appear to be far higher now than they were to me in 1987, though. Even I never considered writing about "100 Years of Narrative Art" (the title of one of the Con panels) and treating DuckTales as the panel blurb seemed to treat MLP: FIM:
Come on a 100-year journey [through] the history of modern culture from the publication of PETER PAN to the one-year anniversary of MY LITTLE PONY. We'll look at CITIZEN KANE, WATCHMEN, DUBLINERS, and CLANNAD and show how it all leads up to MY LITTLE PONY. (Boldface mine)
Of course, the Internet, social media, Youtube fan reviews, and other technological advances (not to mention Hasbro's very active encouragement of the MLP: FIM fandom) have everything to do with this. This is light-years removed from the days of taking handwritten notes and reading the DT credits realfast because I didn't have a VCR. It's enough to cause a new, middle-aged fan of the thing to throw up his hands in despair, as I seemed to do during my review of the first four issues of the comic-book series when I said, "there's no way that I'm ever going to be anything more than a 'fellow galloper' in their bubbly little world." What I'm discovering -- actually, it's more like relearning -- is that there is another way to become a fan of something, one that reverses the emotional/intellectual paradigm.
Unlike most of my Duck fan-friends, I did not read the Duck comics while growing up, apart from brief exposure to one WALT DISNEY'S COMICS DIGEST. I did, however, learn something about the works of Carl Barks from other sources. In 1985, with RICHIE RICH comics having for all intents and purposes "gone away," my curiosity finally got the better of me, and I bought two sets of the Another Rainbow CARL BARKS LIBRARY. This was first and foremost an intellectual decision; I wanted to examine these works, see what made them tick, and see why they were so popular with so many highly intelligent people. Of course, I found them even better than I had supposed. The emotional "buy-in" came soon thereafter, helped in no small measure by the return of American Disney newsstand comics. At the same time, the manner in which I entered Disney comics fandom made it somewhat easier to "accept" the many changes that were made to the Duck "universe" in DuckTales. I wasn't protecting any sort of primal emotional commitment.
America's Best and the like. My interest started to peter out soon after 2000, however, simply because the emotional commitment was just not forthcoming. The fact that DC was at a creative peak in the 90s, only to slip a few years later, certainly didn't help matters. But part of the reason for the change of feeling was the "gut sense" that superheroes simply aren't my "bag" in the way that humorous comics and TV series and classic comic strips are. In the same manner, I greatly enjoyed Warners' Batman and Superman animated series of the 90s and still respect the hell out of them, but that's pretty much as far as it has gone; I feel no compelling "push" to seriously seek out any of the more recent series and am content to let others show me episodes that they think I might enjoy seeing.
What is UP with that?). Unlike what happened with superhero comics and animation, however, I've definitely started the process of the emotional "buyin." I can tell because (*gasp!*) I'm now willing to admit that the show is actually better than Kimba. It's more consistent and just as "Heart"-filled without the irritating continuity lapses and occasionally jarring animation. For me to admit this would have been absolutely unthinkable just a couple of months ago. It's "demotion of DuckTales" syndrome all over again. The difference this time is that I've been down this road before, and so the process is somewhat easier. By this point, I'm also more at peace with myself about what I truly enjoy and don't really care as much about the sort of impression it makes on others. I'm not going to try to justify my liking of MLP: FIM in the same elaborate manner that I've done for the likes of RICHIE RICH, Kimba, and DuckTales. I'll leave that to the show's original, first-and-foremost emotionally committed fans. If it's good, it's good, "intended demographic" be damned.
15 comments:
- Joe Torcivia said...
Fascinating commentary, Chris! I'm happy to be the one who started this ball rolling.
However, when it specifically comes to my changed view of DUCKTALES, I maintain that the reasons FOR that change are exactly those stated in my original comment. Episodes like "Where No Duck has Gone Before", "Double-O-Duck", "Uncrashable Hindentanic", "All Ducks on Deck", and others were great THEN – and are still great now! Others, for those stated reasons, and from today's perspective, are not.
You do a really nice job of "soul searching and analysis of the cause for your own shifting views" but, for me, and for this particular discussion, the matter is simple. Certain things may shift in your own personal perspective, while others do not.
DUCKTALES has shifted. Things of similar ilk that, at least for me "have not" would include: '40s – '50s Warner Bros. cartoons, pre-1965 Hanna-Barbera cartoons, 1964-1966 Gold Key Comics, Silver Age and '80s – '90s DC Comics, and Warner Bros. animated series of the '90s (as noted in my recent TAZ-MANIA DVD review http://tiahblog.blogspot.com/2013/07/dvd-review-taz-mania-season-one-part.html )
Post-1965 / Pre-1970 H-B cartoons, for example, have undergone a similar shift to DT. I still like them, but they are simply NOT as good as their predecessors. Never mind their monumental decline Post-1970. Yet, coincidently, this very week I saw two Huckleberry Hound cartoons, "Piccadilly Dilly" and "The Unmasked Avenger" – and they are just as funny and clever (again, to me) as they were ages ago.
Oddly, in the converse of this notion, the DC Comics of the '70s have risen ever-so-slightly in my estimation, but only because the story and art of what they do now is so uninteresting and/or distasteful.
Because Blogger has a limit on how long a comment can be, I'll offer further perspective on DUCKTALES in my very next comment.
- August 25, 2013 at 5:18 AM
- Joe Torcivia said...
Much of the extremely high regard I had for DUCKTALES, back in the day, was because of "…the mere notion of such a series after too many years of bad animated programming", and seeing things from beloved comic books that I'd NEVER have imagined I'd see on my TV screen!
Now, imagine if DUCKTALES had come along AFTER Warner's BATMAN and SUPERMAN ANIMATED SERIES! (…and yes, I'll concede in advance that, without DT, there very likely would NOT have been any great WB shows to surpass it!)
To keep it short and simple, I'll limit my list of those DC series' virtues to just the fact that, for the first time, we saw an animated Batman and Superman perfectly reflective of the contemporary comic books – and not of "SUPER FRIENDS", and as for "seeing things from beloved comic books that I'd NEVER have imagined I'd see on my TV screen"… Limiting it to just ONE from each series: Ra's Al Ghul and Lobo! 'Nuff said!
Let's say DUCKTALES comes along NOW – offering what has unfortunately been our ONLY chance to see the world of Carl Barks (and Floyd Gottfredson) translated to animation. Just how well did they do?
We have NO DONALD. There's a Gyro that sounds like a "country doctor", rather than Barks' "fussy and sometimes prissy" genius inventor. Magica is not Italian, but Slavic. The Beagle Boys (though entertaining) are unrecognizable. With the exception of Launchpad, we get new characters that (in retrospect) add little or nothing to Barks' "perfect-as-is" world…
…And, most unforgivable of all, a series that commits needless atrocities to Barks' CHARACTERS ("Ducks of the West") and STORIES ("Down and Out in Duckburg")... and offers a number of other early production efforts that are dull and uninteresting enough to be '70s Gold Key product.
Well, the "love" that stemmed from quality animation that was not "cutesy and toy-based" would NOT BE THERE, because Warners would have beaten Disney to that particular punch – and all you'd have was an average series, that failed to live up to its inspiration – but with some very specific and undeniable heights. And that's what DUCKTALES now is to me.
More in our next comment.
- August 25, 2013 at 5:22 AM
- Joe Torcivia said...
And, that finally leads us to "My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic" (TV or comic books)…
Only you know your own mind, and your likes and dislikes are your own – and there's no need to justify them to anyone.
But, wasn't one of the reasons we all thought DUCKTALES was "The Beatles and Elvis of Animation" precisely BECAUSE it was not "cutesy and toy-based"?
Seems to me, we would have run screaming form ANYTHING with "Friendship is Magic" as part of its title. But, you clearly know something that I may not care to learn along with you – and that's what makes the world go round.
What may be undeniable is that, in our (for lack of a better term) "fannish quests", we tend to seek out new and or different things. As I have found great enjoyment from classic TV shows (thanks to DVD) such as PERRY MASON, THE UNTOUCHABLES, THE FUGITIVE, GUNSMOKE, BONANZA, WAGON TRAIN and HAVE GUN WILL TRAVEL, not to mention a variety of movies from the '30s – '50s, you seem to have found it here.
So, enjoy it – and thanks for an interesting look into your "thought process".
Just one request… Go on and NAME those series that surpassed DUCKTALES! I'd be interested to know!
- August 25, 2013 at 5:25 AM
- Comicbookrehab said...
It's the "What Have You Done For Me Lately?" curse; comparing a TV show that has ceased production long ago with a current offering that has grown in favor. And yet..."Ducktales" IS a great show itself - well written, well-produced & worth our time. NOBODY can say that about other shows from the decade that were re-released on DVD, or even think it worthwhile to devote the attention we've given to DT around it's silver anniversary; the other programs - like "Transformers" - were terrible and had commemorative merchandise celebrating their age; what did Ducktales get?..."Ducktales Remastered"? Okay..what about new episodes? A box set of the remaining episodes on DVD? No? Well, that's how the curse begins.
I just find it hilarious that a"My Little Pony" cartoon is believed to have raised the bar in animation these days...
- August 25, 2013 at 6:53 AM
- Comicbookrehab said...
Btw, Chris, you're looking in top shape for 50, if that photo above is any indication. :)
- August 25, 2013 at 7:08 AM
- Chris Barat said...
"You do a really nice job of "soul searching and analysis of the cause for your own shifting views" but, for me, and for this particular discussion, the matter is simple. Certain things may shift in your own personal perspective, while others do not."
In my case, the major thing that has not "shifted" since my initial exposure to it would be the Carl Barks Duck stories. If some disaster were to befall me, and I'd have to start selling off my comics and books, the Another Rainbow CBL would be the very last thing to go.
"Well, the "love" that stemmed from quality animation that was not "cutesy and toy-based" would NOT BE THERE, because Warners would have beaten Disney to that particular punch – and all you'd have was an average series, that failed to live up to its inspiration – but with some very specific and undeniable heights. And that's what DUCKTALES now is to me."
I'm not going to go so far as to say that DT was "average." To me, it's still well, well above the norm, even for animated series of today. I will, however, list some series that, in my estimation, have passed DT:
1. TALE SPIN (Yes, Greg Weagle managed to convince me)
I could also argue for the (earlier years of) THE SIMPSONS.
I'll address MLP: FIM in another comment.
- August 26, 2013 at 1:18 PM
- Chris Barat said...
"Seems to me, we would have run screaming form ANYTHING with "Friendship is Magic" as part of its title. But, you clearly know something that I may not care to learn along with you – and that's what makes the world go round."
Think of it this way: Just because a microwave made in 1985 was somewhat bulky, clunky, and hard to use doesn't mean that people refuse to buy microwaves today. The quality has improved. Such is the case with MLP version 4. The "cutesy and toy-based" aspects of the show can still be glimpsed on occasion -- and some fans-from-the-start are apparently pissed at what they see as Hasbro mucking with the show in an effort to sell new toy lines -- BUT the entertainment value is infinitely higher than that of any previous incarnation of the series. It doesn't measure up to the best Disney or Warners series, but, for a generation of people raised on snark and ugliness, it has definitely struck a nerve.
Once I finish watching the first 3 seasons of eps, I'll make sure to make some additional comments (as opposed to apologia) on what I have observed.
- August 26, 2013 at 1:24 PM
- Chris Barat said...
"It's the "What Have You Done For Me Lately?" curse; comparing a TV show that has ceased production long ago with a current offering that has grown in favor. And yet..."Ducktales" IS a great show itself - well written, well-produced & worth our time. NOBODY can say that about other shows from the decade that were re-released on DVD, or even think it worthwhile to devote the attention we've given to DT around it's silver anniversary."
Regarding a lot of the shows from the pre-DT 80s, you're correct.
"I just find it hilarious that a "My Little Pony" cartoon is believed to have raised the bar in animation these days..."
That may be putting it a bit too strongly. What's happened is that something that no one should have had any reasonable expectation to be good has turned out to be extremely good. The phrase "pleasant surprise" comes to mind.
"Btw, Chris, you're looking in top shape for 50, if that photo above is any indication. :)"
That wasn't me, that was my stunt double. :-)
- August 26, 2013 at 1:28 PM
- Ryan Wynns said...
Chris, Joe, et al,
Oh, I could go on for pages about these matters! Let me read the post and comments over a couple of times, sort out all that's racing through my mind, compose a few paragraphs, and I'll get back to you with something (hopefully relatively) meditated and coherent...
-- Ryan
- September 5, 2013 at 7:26 PM
- Joe Torcivia said...
Very much looking forward to your comments.
As someone who "knew us then – and now", your observations on Chris' fannish-journey and mine (as well as your own) could prove fascinating!
For my money, it's fascinating enough to note Chris and I began on a solid, common APA and Fanzine foundation of DUCKTALES and the great CARL BARKS STORIES that formed the (alas-not always-adhered-to) basis for that series, and now we are Blog-posting on MY LITTLE PONY and THE WALKING DEAD, respectively!
…Could you become more opposite than THAT?! (Both of us, that is, no value judgments intended!)
- September 10, 2013 at 2:20 AM
- Ryan Wynns said...
(Part One)
Chris, Joe, et al,
The reason that I'm so excited about Chris' thoughts on his "emotional/intellectual theory of fandom" is that, though I've given the issue considerable thought over the years, I don't know if any of us have ever really taken it on in one of our public forums (once APAs, now our blogs) as fully as Chris has here.
I was five years old when DuckTales premiered. For some reason, when I first saw a commercial spot for it during the summer of `87, I ran out to the kitchen RAVING about this exciting NEW show "coming this fall". (I said, "Mommy, mommy, they're making a show where they turn all the Donald Duck into shows. The reason that I'd taken that notion away from the ad is that I believed that the word "tales" meant "books". So I thought that I would be seeing animated adaptations on TV of the Donald Duck Little Golden Books that I owned. My mom was just confused.)
Throughout the remaining my childhood, other interests superseded DuckTales: The Real Ghostbusters, then (believe it or not) Rescue Rangers for its first few months in syndication, then Darkwing Duck, then Godzila movies, then Sonic the Hedgehog ("SatAM" specifically, for those wondering)...
But in the long run, I've always looked back and considered DT THE television series of my childhood. And it was because of that emotional commitment -- after all, the first time I saw a commercial trumpeting its imminence, I "lost my sh*t". I don't really know what it was that caused that reaction, but it was very real, and there must be something to that.
- September 16, 2013 at 6:55 PM
- Ryan Wynns said...
(Part Two)
And then when I saw "Treasure of the Golden Suns" (by accident -- on that Sunday night, I had not had any idea that it was going to be on), it replayed in my head for weeks. But when "Time Is Money" and "Super DuckTales" came out, they actually eclipsed "Treasure of the Golden Suns" for me -- after all, I was a kid, and a caveman and a dinosaur, and a robot superhero, were more exciting than a plain ol' treasure hunt. It was actually reading The DuckTales Index that reinvigorated my enthusiasm for "Golden Suns", and every time I've watched it over the years, to me, it's like re-watching and studying Citizen Kane (as silly as I'm sure many will find that).
...oh, there's a big EXCEPT here ... except for during my teenage years. Everything that I'd liked came to seem silly to me (which I had NOT expected to happen). I noticed more plot holes, they seemed culturally dumbed down, and even, in some cases, the animation/comic book art looked clumsy, in a way I'd never noticed.
So, throughout high school and college, I moved on to other things. But I eventually came back around, and reconciled the "coming of age" crisis I went through in high school. The comics and cartoons I liked as a kid were what they were, and I could still appreciate them -- both in new ways and in terms of what made me like them in the first place.
- September 16, 2013 at 6:56 PM
- Ryan Wynns said...
(Part Three)
So I can really relate, Chris. Yes, over the years, the discrepancy in quality between "Treasure of the Golden Suns" and "New Gizmo-Kids on the Block" has become more difficult to ignore. However, I have raised the "surrender" flag -- not so much in admission that subsequent series have proven themselves "better"; but that DT has slipped through the cracks as far as animation and pop culture fans considering it of any significance, and it's probably going to stay that way.
Anyway, circling back a bit, I'm still very much an enthusiastic DuckTales fan ... and just as with some of my other long-term interests, it's because of an initial emotional investment. On the other extreme, I've read Krazy Kat, but only on an intellectual level ... and I don't think that I will have any lasting enthusiasm for the strip (other than a general appreciation for its place in comics history, its intelligence, and its innovativeness). It's much the same as with sluggish "arthouse"/avante garde films (except without the "general appreciation" part...)
In short, Chris, from 31 years of personal experience, your theory checks out!
Joe: If today I suddenly found your blogs after 15 years of having lost track of you, I'd probably be surprised. But having kept up with both of you pretty steadily over the past 10 years, I've seen the different turns your paths have taken, so in both cases, where you've arrived makes perfect sense. :)
-- Ryan
- September 16, 2013 at 6:57 PM
- Chris Barat said...
"For my money, it's fascinating enough to note Chris and I began on a solid, common APA and Fanzine foundation of DUCKTALES and the great CARL BARKS STORIES that formed the (alas-not always-adhered-to) basis for that series, and now we are Blog-posting on MY LITTLE PONY and THE WALKING DEAD, respectively! …Could you become more opposite than THAT?! (Both of us, that is, no value judgments intended!)"
Well, Pinkie Pie got the other "Mane 6" Ponies to act like Zombies when Queen Chrysalis' Changelings reappeared during the "Return of Queen Chrysalis" story arc in the IDW comic. That should count for something in the way of crossover!
- September 18, 2013 at 7:55 PM
- Chris Barat said...
"Throughout the remaining my childhood, other interests superseded DuckTales: The Real Ghostbusters, then (believe it or not) Rescue Rangers for its first few months in syndication, then Darkwing Duck, then Godzila movies, then Sonic the Hedgehog ("SatAM" specifically, for those wondering)..."
You don't really have to apologize regarding RESCUE RANGERS... though it took me longer than the "first few months" to really warm up to the series.
"...oh, there's a big EXCEPT here ... except for during my teenage years. Everything that I'd liked came to seem silly to me (which I had NOT expected to happen). I noticed more plot holes, [the shows] seemed culturally dumbed down, and even, in some cases, the animation/comic book art looked clumsy, in a way I'd never noticed."
I suppose that if this were ever going to happen, it would be during the teen years. You're more capable of noticing logical inconsistencies and eager to move ahead and "put childish things aside." But "childish" things are not the same as "childLIKE" things. The latter can be appreciated at ANY age by people with the imagination to recognize their universal truths. That is why C.S. Lewis loved "children's literature" like THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS and produced similar literature of his own, and also why MLP:FIM has proven to be such a surprising hit with teens and adults.
"However, I have raised the "surrender" flag -- not so much in admission that subsequent series have proven themselves "better"; but that DT has slipped through the cracks as far as animation and pop culture fans considering it of any significance, and it's probably going to stay that way."
And a lot of the blame goes to Disney itself, for treating the show so shabbily in terms of DVD releases and other ancillaries.
- September 18, 2013 at 8:01 PM


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Items where Author / Artist / Editor is "Hicken, R. J."
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Wright, C. David and Ashawaraya, P. and Ashwin, P. and Aziz, Mustafa M. and Hicken, R. J. and Kohary, K. I. and Liu, Y. and Marmier, A. S. H. and Shah, Purav and Vazquez, J. and Wang, Lei (2010) Phase-change technologies: from PCRAM to probe-storage to processors. In: European Phase Change and Ovonic Conference, 5-7 September, 2010, Milano.


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Report: Ind. House Members Split On Same-Sex Marriage
A report says only 38 Indiana House members say they'll vote for a proposed constitutional amendment against same-sex marriage and 38 say they'll vote against it.
The Indianapolis Star reported the deadlock Sunday. It says 13 other representatives were undecided and 11 refused to say.
The measure needs 51 votes to win approval in the 100-member House. If it passes there and in the Indiana Senate, it will go before Indiana voters in November.
Indiana law already bans same-sex marriage, but backers of the proposed amendment say it's needed to ensure the courts don't throw out the law.
Amendment supporter Curt Smith of the Indiana Family Institute says the breakdown of support and opposition is consistent with what he's hearing.
The House approved the proposed amendment 70-26 in 2011.


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Guest blogger and RIM Product Manager Vivek Gupta couldn't wait to tell everyone about the new Video Chat features in the BlackBerry PlayBook OS 2.0 upgrade. Take it away, Vivek!
Now that the upgrade to the BlackBerry® PlayBook™ tablet – BlackBerry PlayBook OS 2.0 – is here, I wanted to give you a sneak preview of some of the great new features that are available in the updated Video Chat! We think you'll agree, whether for work or play, it's an easy and fun way to connect with people.
Simply put, Video Chat on the BlackBerry PlayBook tablet allows you to make and take video calls with your friends, family, and colleagues who also have a BlackBerry PlayBook tablet. (Note: Both users of the Video Chat feature must be connected to the Internet for a chat to be enabled.) With just one click, you'll be able to have virtual face-to-face conversations using the HD video cameras and stunning high-resolution screen on the BlackBerry PlayBook tablet.
Let's look at the top new features and improvements in the Video Chat upgrade:
Visually Appealing and Organized
The Video Chat user interface takes a cue from the new email, calendar and contact apps. I'm really excited to have you try the updated version of Video Chat, because I think it's a compelling user experience and is designed to improve visual interaction between contacts using the app on the BlackBerry PlayBook tablet.
Experience Video Chat on the Large Screen
I love the new Presenter Mode because it is designed to take advantage of the multitasking capabilities made possible by this new powerful OS. For example, while you're busy using the upgraded Video Chat, you could simultaneously click over and view your pictures, write notes, browse the web or play a game on the BlackBerry PlayBook tablet. Presenter Mode is also a big convenience for business users. For example, let's say you're in a meeting room with a few people and you're running a BlackBerry PlayBook tablet video chat with a colleague in a remote location. With Presenter Mode, you can project this video chat onto a big screen for better viewing, and then message or share slides and spreadsheets with the people in your conference room without disrupting the video chat.
Contact Integration
One of the key differentiating features of the new Video Chat for the BlackBerry PlayBook tablet is that it now automatically discovers which of your contacts are Video Chat "capable" and displays their "availability" to Video Chat – no guesses and disappointments! You can view, edit, and create new contacts for Video Chat directly in the Contacts application or in Video Chat application itself. Plus, with the new capabilities in BlackBerry PlayBook OS 2.0, you can conveniently initiate a Video Chat directly from the Contacts application, while viewing the contact's information details.
As mentioned, these new features for Video Chat are available now in the BlackBerry PlayBook OS 2.0 software update! Please comment and let us know who'll be the first person you call using the new Video Chat for the BlackBerry PlayBook tablet.
More about BlackBerry PlayBook OS 2.0
- BlackBerry PlayBook OS 2.0 is here!
- Help Blog: How to download and update to BlackBerry PlayBook OS 2.0 and manage the new home screen
- Help Blog: Getting Started with Email, Contacts and Calendar in BlackBerry PlayBook OS 2.0
- Help Blog: Getting Started with Video Chat in BlackBerry PlayBook OS 2.0
- BlackBerry PlayBook OS 2.0 Reviews from CES
- CES 2012: BlackBerry PlayBook OS 2.0 Communicates [Video]


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Leafy Sea Dragons, Phycodurus eques
« Database Home Animalia Chordata Actinopterygii Syngnathiformes Syngnathidae Phycodurus eques
Description & Behavior
Leafy sea dragons, Phycodurus eques (Günther, 1865), aka leafy seadragons or Glauert's seadragon, Phycodorus eques (Günther, 1865), and Phyllopteryx eques (Günther, 1865), get their common names from the leaf-like appendages on their bodies. Leafy sea dragons have more of the leaf-like appendages on their bodies than the closely-related weedy sea dragons. Both species resemble floating pieces of seaweed which makes them difficult for predators to find in their natural habitat. They reach a total length of 35 cm.
World Range & Habitat
These superbly camouflaged fishes, in the same Family Syngnathidae as seahorses and pipefishes, are only found in Australia's temperate waters. This species has only been recorded from the southern coastline of Australia, from Kangaroo Island, South Australia to Rottnest Island, Western Australia. These fishes live over sand patches among kelp-covered rocks below the low tide line in depths from about 3-50 m.
Feeding Behavior (Ecology)
The leafy sea dragon, Phycodurus eques, has a long pipe-like snout with a small terminal mouth. They feed on plankton, mysids and other small crustaceans. They have one of the most spectacular examples of camouflage: neither prey nor predators recognize them as a fish.
Life History
Unlike seahorses, sea dragons do not have a pouch for rearing their young. Instead, the male carries the eggs fixed to the underside of his tail from where they eventually hatch. When male sea dragons are ready to receive eggs from the female, the lower half of the tail on the male appears wrinkled. During mating, females lay 100-250 eggs onto a special 'brood patch' on the underside of the male's tails, where they are attached and fertilized. This brood patch, consisting of cups of blood-rich tissue each holding one egg, and is specifically developed by the male for use during the breeding season (August-March). The bright pink eggs become embedded in the cups of the brood patch, receiving oxygen via the cups' blood vessels. During each breeding season, male leafy sea dragons will hatch two batches of eggs. After a period of about 6-8 weeks from conception, the male 'gives birth' to miniature juvenile versions of sea dragons. As soon as a baby sea dragon leaves the safety of their father's tail, they are on their own. For 2-3 days after birth, baby sea dragons are sustained by their yolk sacs. After this, they hunt small zooplankton, such as copepods and rotifers, until large enough to hunt juvenile mysids. Sea dragons grow to a length of 20 cm after one year, reaching their mature length at two years. In the wild, young sea dragons are preyed upon by other fish, crustaceans and even sea anemones. Young sea dragons look more delicate, and are often differently colored than adults, and may hide in different types of seaweeds.
Conservation Status & Comments
The leafy sea dragon is a rare sight and a very fragile creature. Handling of any sort is discouraged due to the likelihood of injuring this animal. They do seem to enjoy having their picture taken though.
Leafy sea dragons, Phycodurus eques, are listed as Near Threatened (NT) on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species:
A taxon is Near Threatened when it has been evaluated against the criteria but does not qualify for Critically Endangered, Endangered or Vulnerable now, but is close to qualifying for or is likely to qualify for a threatened category in the near future.
References & Further Research
Biology of Pipefishes, Pipehorses & Seadragons - Project Seahorse
Australian Museum Fish Site
Seadragons of Sydney [click here for video - 11MB] - see more at Divegallery.com
Research Phycodurus eques » Barcode of Life ~ Taxonomy ~ BioOne ~ Biodiversity Heritage Library ~ CITES ~ Cornell Macaulay Library [audio / video] ~ Encyclopedia of Life (EOL) ~ ESA Online Journals ~ FishBase ~ Florida Museum of Natural History ~ GBIF ~ Google Scholar ~ ITIS ~ IUCN RedList (Threatened Status) ~ Marine Species Identification Portal ~ NCBI (PubMed, GenBank, etc.) ~ Ocean Biogeographic Information System ~ PLOS ~ SIRIS ~ Tree of Life Web Project ~ UNEP-WCMC Species + Database ~ WoRMS
Search for Leafy Sea Dragons » ARKive ~ Flickr ~ Google ~ Creative Commons search ~ Wikipedia ~ YouTube
Feedback & Citation
Start or join a discussion about this species below or send us an email to report any errors or submit suggestions for this page. We greatly appreciate all feedback!
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first Thursday of each month: Senior Discount Day
Those 65+ can receive a coupon valid for a $1 hot dog,
coffee or donut at the Café. Coupon can be picked up at the Players
Club Desk. Patron must show valid Players Club card to receive. On per person/per day
Voucher drawings at 2, 3 and 4
pm for a $25 voucher. entry form at the Players Club Desk. Must be present to win and claim same day.
Meadowlands Racing & Entertainment - 1 Racetrack Drive - East Rutherford, NJ 07073 - Call us at (201) THE-BIGM
©2018 New Meadowlands Racetrack, LLC. All rights reserved. Gambling Problem? Call 800-GAMBLER


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Andrei Tarkovsky,Sergei M.Eisenstein,Dziga Vertov,Alexander,Grigori Chukhrai,Mikhail Kalatozov, Yuli Raizman,Ivan Pyryev, Mikhail Romm....
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
Tatyana Lioznova - Semnadtsat mgnoveniy vesny aka Seventeen moments of spring (Episode 11) (1973)
Stirlitz is a soviet spy who infiltrated in the Hitler's headquarters from many years ago. Now, with the enemy at gates, in the days previous to the Berlin's fall, in one country not prepared for the defeat, Stirlitz is confronted with his final task, discover a secret encounter in Switherland between the americans and a Himmler's man to plan the destiny from a postwar new German, with Hitler dead, the soviet out, and the SS like principal actor after the shadows. In seventeen days that shock the world, Stirlitz, cornered, moves cautelously in a world of suspicion and fear, with the sounds of bombs day after day more and more closer, involved in a dangerous investigation about his person from one of his superior more closer everyday from discover his real identity.
Filmed in thrilling low-key, without any trace of efectism, "Seventeen moments of spring" is probably the best spy film from all the times (very close to the spirit of "The spy who came in from the cold"), the global performance from all cast, the use of documentary images and his link with the fiction, the exquisite write and serious treatment from nazy generals and german people (very unusual in a soviet film) makes from this series one of more fine jewels of european television's golden age, 70 & 80 decades. Maybe not to the level of "Berlin Alexanderplatz", "Dekalog", "Scenes from a marriage" or "Heimat" because Lioznova not a great filmmaker to the Bergman, Fassbinder or Kieslowski stature, but this hit from iron curtain's soviet television and luckily avalaible now in Occident, can be enjoyable not only for the lover of noir and spy film, but too for any film lover in general in search from a great story and intelligent characters.
This twelve-part television series about a Soviet intelligence agent who infiltrated the Nazi Secret Service has become a cult film. For the first time since Chapayev jokes and literary parodies are being made up about its main protagonist, Stirlitz. The era of perestroika has passed, the Soviet system of values has been shattered, with the USSR itself ceasing to exist, yet the film continues to be watched and enjoyed.The film owes its astounding success to director T. Lioznova's many-year painstaking work, writer Y. Semyonov's suspense-packed plot, the brilliant performance by the actors and M. Tariverdiyev's music. More information about the real facts in Wikipedia.
Subtitles:English (idx & sub)
Posted by anybody at 3:48 AM
Labels: 1971-1980, Tatyana Lioznova


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Dr. Edythe Abdullah, Mr. Wilfredo Gonzalez, Mr. Hugh Greene, Ms. Joy Korman, Dr. Katherine Robinson, Dr. Bruce Taylor, Mr. Kevin Twomey
Mr. John Barnes, Ms. Toni Crawford, Ms. Ann Hicks, Ms. Wanyonyi Kendrick, Mr. Oscar Munoz, Ms. Joannie Newton
Chair Taylor called the workshop to order.
Chair Taylor welcomed everyone to the workshop and offered appreciation to FSCJ for their participation in what was intended to be a discussion on collaborative efforts between the two institutions. He asked President Delaney to introduce each institution's leadership.
President Delaney introduced leadership from FSCJ and UNF and offered appreciation for their willingness to participate in this workshop. After formalities were exchanged the discussion turned to item 2 on the agenda.
Chair Taylor stated that President Delaney would discuss what was new at the University of North Florida.
President Delaney stated that he would be introducing college deans and offering an opportunity for them to speak about what was new in their respective college. He introduced Dr. Barbara Hetrick as the dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and asked her to talk about that college.
Dean Hetrick discussed general education, noting that efforts were being made to combine units and build a coherent and integrated program. She mentioned that these changes would include community-based transformational learning opportunities.
President Delaney introduced Dr. John McAllister as the dean of the Coggin College of Business.
Dean McAllister spoke about transformational learning opportunities, noting that students from his college recently won two major championships – one in the Department of Logistics and one in the Department of Finance. He spoke about program innovation, including the new Ibero-AmericanMBA which is a cohort program involving a consortium of three schools. Also that the Coggin College Career Management Center offered skills to achieve basic training in writing resumes and successfully interviewing.
President Delaney introduced Dr. Pam Chally as the dean of the Brooks College of Health.
Dean Chally spoke about her college's exceptional success in the Center for Global Health, which was established to promote global understanding and collaborative action for improving health and medical care. She emphasized the center's objectives to promote excellence in health and medicine locally, regionally and globally.
Dean Chally spoke about future opportunities, including the Us Group, distance learning, a possible interdisciplinary Ph.D. in health sciences, and a collaborative effort with FSCJ to provide needed graduate programs in health care.
President Delaney introduced Dr. Larry Daniel as the dean of the College of Education and Human Services.
Dean Daniel commented on the new building which would open in May. He noted that it would be suited to the needs of his college and the population the university served. He spoke about the College of Education and Human services as a full service college, offering 11 certification programs, 14 master of education degrees and the doctor of education in leadership degree.
Dean Daniel spoke about the future for his college, noting that there were plans for a first generation minority male teachers program, tutoring program in mathematics and science, increase in sites for professional development schools, and regional collaboration among higher education partners in teacher education.
President Delaney introduced Dr. Daniel Cos who represented the College of Computing, Engineering and Construction.
Dr. Cox spoke about the College of Computing, Engineering and Construction's disciplines and student distribution within these disciplines. Other discussions focused on research and included information about a brain-computer-robot interface. The future for this college involved high-tech, high-end jobs for the Northeast Florida region and beyond.
President Delaney introduced President Steven Wallace and invited him to discuss the new Florida State College at Jacksonville.
President Wallace spoke about the evolution of the Florida college system and provided a current snapshot of FSCJ. He noted that the State College System consisted of 26 community colleges and 2 junior colleges, with some institutions now granting baccalaureate degrees. President Wallace talked about the state college system's explosive growth, noting that numbers would reach 1 million in two years. He summarized the student population, paying particular attention to the 58 percent of Florida's college graduates who enroll in one of the Florida state college system institutions. He noted that this presented a positive trend line for high school graduates that went on to higher education and showed an extraordinary partnership with the Florida state college system.
President Wallace then discussed the name change of FSCJ. He spoke about the opportunity to restructure the organization and reemerge still honoring a 44 year history. He discussed how FSCJ differed from UNF, noting an open admissions policy, academic skills center, remediation programs, different degrees, more applied career orientation, and a new technical college. He mentioned the collaborative agreement between the two institutions, mentioning that this was the only region in the state where there had been a successful partnership regarding bachelor's degrees.
President Wallace concluded his discussion by stating that he wanted the leadership and Board of Trustees at UNF to understand that the establishment of the Florida State College System was a commitment to make sure adverse competition did not happen; that FSCJ's focus was on nontraditional students or working adults and included a different mission, which included access and economic development.
President Delaney spoke about the university's master planning, noting that UNF could not generate all of the graduates that north Florida needed. He stated that the community needed additional graduates and FSCJ would make that possible.
Item 4A The Jacksonville Commitment
Mr. Nat Glover, Special Advisor to the President, and Ms. Deb Kaye, Associate Vice President, Enrollment Services, spoke about the Jacksonville Commitment. Details were provided about the program, as it entered its second cohort. Mr. Glover stated that the program had the potential to transform the city and noted that FSCJ's contribution was instrumental in moving the program forward.
This discussion included a program overview, which included a mission statement and future needs. Highlights were presented on future needs for the program, which included additional scholarship funding, support for additional staff and marketing presence.
Mr. Glover stated that the purpose of the program was to add an additional level of college access and create a cornerstone for Jacksonville by designing a model scholarship program for the country.
Trustee Abdullah spoke about this item, noting that the CLIP grant was an opportunity set up by Bill and Melinda Gates. She elaborated that 13 cities were invited apply and, of those 13, nine applied. Seven were awarded $250,000 planning grants and Jacksonville was one of the lucky recipients. She stated that Jacksonville used the award to create the Learning to Succeed project which was designed to engage as many individuals as possible to create a community-generated stakeholder program that would change the mindset of the Legislature, community leaders and agencies. She noted that if the Learning to Succeed project was fully funded and that would mean a $3 million grant.
Trustee Abdullah talked about the strategy for this project and the prescribed plan to achieve the Gates' goal.
Trustees from both institutions discussed the importance of working together to continue existing collaborative efforts and to develop additional and more regular opportunities for both boards.
Trustees from UNF discussed baccalaureate production, noting that UNF would need to become a 50,000 student institution to meet the capacity for the north Florida area. It was noted that UNF would not be able to meet this kind of growth.
It was reported that Jacksonville was currently in the low 20 percent range of adults with bachelors' degrees, with hopes of raising the bar to 35 percent. Trustees discussed shrinking this gap, noting that there would be a need to matriculate students from FSCJ to UNF and vice versa, with a focus to avoid duplication of programs.
Trustees from FSCJ discussed a possible Memorandum of Understanding between the two institutions to create some kind of structure to provide guidance and ensure collaboration. Trustees from UNF concurred.
Trustees from UNF and FSCJ added final comments about the Jacksonville Commitment, mentioning that between the two institutions, there was a talented group of trustees with a heart for community and students, and building a structure in the city that encouraged college as a positive and possible path would benefit everyone.
Chair Taylor thanked everyone for a very informative day and invited FSCJ to UNF for future conversations.
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