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Arizona Department of Economic Security
Five Year Strategic Plan
Promoting the safety, well-being, and self-sufficiency of children, adults and families
Neal Young, Director
Janice K. Brewer
Neal Young Governor Director
January 1, 2010
Dear Arizonans:
As the Director of the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES), it is my pleasure to share with you the Department's fiscal year 2011-2015 five year strategic plan. I hope that you will find the plan useful to understanding the critical role of the Department and our strategic direction.
This five year plan has been developed within the context of the opportunities and challenges in our state. Arizona and our nation are experiencing an unprecedented economic downturn. DES feels the impact of this economic decline with dramatic rises in caseloads at the same time that revenues to provide services are increasingly limited. People who have never experienced severe financial difficulties before are coming to DES for services for the first time. They need temporary supportive services from the state and their community to weather the economic downturn.
This plan encompasses a collaborative and innovative approach to promoting the safety, well-being and self-sufficiency of vulnerable Arizonans. The plan builds on widespread successes DES has experienced in providing essential services in concert with Arizona's communities. The plan provides a framework for continued innovation, efficiency and partnership as we move forward.
I would like to personally thank all DES staff and our many community partners for their tireless dedication, hard work and commitment to helping Arizona's individuals and families achieve the best possible outcome, especially in these challenging times. I look forward to working together as we move forward in partnership to accomplish the goals set forth in this strategic plan.
Neal Young Director
1717 W. Jefferson, S/C 010A, Phoenix, AZ 85007 P.O. Box 6123, Phoenix, AZ 85005 Telephone (602) 542-5678 Fax (602) 542-5339 • www.azdes.gov TABLE OF CONTENTS
Vision and Mission Statements
Guiding Principles
Executive Summary
Department Goals
Goal 1
Strengthen Individuals and Families
Goal 2
Increase Self-Sufficiency
Goal 3
Develop the Capacity of Communities
Department Strategic Issues
Resource Assumptions
Every child, adult, and family in the state of Arizona will be safe and economically secure.
The Arizona Department of Economic Security promotes the safety, well-being, and self-sufficiency of children, adults, and families.
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As Arizona's human service agency, the Department of Economic Security adheres to values that are foundational to carrying out its mission to promote the safety, well-being, and self-sufficiency of children, adults, and families. These values guide and permeate our work, help stretch our thinking, and are intrinsic to how we conduct ourselves as individuals and as a state agency.
Respect: We respect each other, stakeholders, customers, and staff, and the differences and uniqueness of each. Honesty, trust, and integrity are hallmarks. We treat all with equality and professionalism, recognizing that each individual, family, and community has its priorities, opportunities, and challenges that must be considered.
Diversity: We strive to make decisions based on equity and fairness. We value the diversity of people – of our staff, our communities and the people we serve.
Collaboration: Partnerships and teamwork are paramount and integral to how we do business. We engage in collaboration with policymakers, service providers, community providers, tribes, and families to develop programs and provide services that improve the quality of life in Arizona's communities.
Accountability: We are accountable to ourselves, our clients, partners, and coworkers, taking responsibility in all relationships. We continually examine actions and outcomes and strive to learn from each. We meet commitments and provide quality services.
Innovation: We engage in visionary and strategic thinking and creative problem-solving focused on our vision and mission, bringing new ideas to fruition. We are solution-oriented. We challenge the status quo, are open to new ways of doing things, and continuously draw upon multiple and diverse sources for ideas and inspiration.
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Systems of care must:
be customer and family driven
be effectively integrated
protect the rights of families and individuals
allow smooth transitions between programs
build community capacity to serve families and individuals
emphasize prevention and early intervention
respect customers, partners, and fellow employees
Services must be:
evaluated for outcomes
coordinated across systems
personalized to meet the needs of families and individuals
accessible, accountable, and comprehensive
culturally and linguistically appropriate and respectful
strength-based and delivered in the least intrusive manner
Leaders must:
value our employees
lead by example
partner with communities
be inclusive in decision making
ensure staff are trained and supported to do their jobs
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The Department of Economic Security (DES) is an integrated human services agency that provides critical protective and assistance services to more than one million of Arizona's children, adults and families each year.
Together, DES' programs impact the safety, well-being and self-sufficiency of Arizonans. Some of these programs include: Child Protective Services; services to provide families the tools they need to care for their children; child care for working parents; Adult Protective Services; domestic violence shelter and supports; early intervention services for infants and toddlers at risk of developmental delays; home- and community-based services for individuals with developmental disabilities and the aged; independent living programs for both seniors and young adults; unemployment insurance; employment assistance (including vocational rehabilitation and job training); child support enforcement; temporary financial support; food and energy assistance; and eligibility for medical assistance.
These programs and services are delivered through DES offices and staff statewide, and also through a network of contracted community-based providers. DES works collaboratively with the communities it serves, local and national advocacy organizations, other state agencies, counties, local governments on emergency preparedness, the federal agencies that oversee DES' programs, the courts, and Native American tribes in the delivery of services to the citizens of Arizona.
The Department has felt the impact of the current economic downturn through dramatic rises in some caseloads for essential services such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP; commonly known as food stamps) and Unemployment Insurance benefits at the same time that revenues to provide services are increasing limited. This five year strategic plan reflects a focus on maintaining the essential safety net to help individuals and families meet basic human needs so that they can weather the economic decline. DES will expand on our successful internal and external collaborations to help meet the challenges brought on by the unprecedented economic downturn.
The work of the Department is based on the foundation of the vision, mission, values and guiding principles, with goals and strategies aligned with these elements to ensure that the desired performance outcomes are attained. The Department's objective is to move beyond simply delivering services and to place greater focus on helping families gain the tools they need to effectively and permanently escape the hardships of poverty and other barriers that currently prevent them from being self-sufficient. While some situations warrant more intensive and longer-term involvement between DES and families, the Department's primary focus is to prevent dependence and, where possible, provide short-term, less intrusive services and supports that help the individual or family take ownership of their own success. Helping families overcome the hardships of poverty is a core part of the work at DES.
The Department seeks to develop and implement the highest quality human service programs with the most effective and efficient service delivery systems. Collaboration, innovation, and accountability are essential to the achievement of desired outcomes. DES' integrated approach to doing business and the Department's collaboration with families, community partners, and other government entities provide greater accountability across the agency and generate a more efficient and comprehensive way of delivering services. On many occasions, DES staff and programs are the first contact families have with
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service providers when seeking help for their issues. The Department often serves as a triage point, working with families to identify their needs and strengths, which will determine the course of their service plan.
These are challenging times at DES. Given the restricted resources, it is even more important than ever that we ensure we are investing in our core work and in our integrated delivery system to ensure that resources are used most effectively. While it is critical that the individual units within the organization continue to meet state and federal mandates and performance measures, the work across the Department is to be considered as an integrated whole, directed at improving outcomes for children, families, and individuals in this state.
The DES Vision is that every child, adult and family in the State of Arizona will be safe and economically secure.
The Department strives to achieve this through its Mission to promote the safety, well-being, and self-sufficiency of children, adults, and families.
There are five core values that form the basis for the work that DES does in the fulfillment of its mission: respect, diversity, collaboration, accountability, and innovation. These values are applied in the daily work across DES.
The Department's vision, mission, values and guiding principles provide a foundation for the following three interconnected goals of the agency, which are designed to improve outcomes for children, families, and individuals in Arizona:
Strengthen individuals and families
Increase self-sufficiency
Develop the capacity of communities
We are significantly challenged in meeting these developmental goals, however, as more of our work today is on basic foundational needs – safety, hunger, protection, employment and temporary cash support. The Department is also now engaged in core work, organizational streamlining and function analysis.
The DES Strategic Plan focuses on the breadth of DES' programs to identify overarching Department priorities and major initiatives. The Plan serves as the framework for ongoing budgeting and planning prioritization, as well as consolidates and reflects the critical and often interrelated issues facing the Department. To chart forward movement based on a foundation of integrated services, the plan sets forth goals and strategies for addressing those issues and attaining the desired outcomes. This plan provides a framework for moving forward that is fluid and will be modified and adapted to respond to shifting environmental factors and the needs of the individuals and families DES serves.
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The following are highlights from the SFY 2011-2015 Five Year Strategic Plan:
Although the Department remains committed to its three goals, much of the work effort this year and next are focused on maintaining the safety net of a newly emerging poor as the recession impacts first the financially marginal families and then the middle class. This is evident in the unprecedented growth Unemployment Insurance Benefits and SNAP, etc.
Goal 1: Strengthen Individuals and Families
The safety and well-being of vulnerable children, adults, and families are inherent to the Department's vision and mission. DES, in collaboration with its family and community partners, provides services and supports to vulnerable populations (e.g., children at risk of abuse and neglect, older and at-risk adults, individuals with disabilities, homeless individuals, refugees, and victims of domestic violence). Building on the strengths and support systems available in families and communities, DES provides immediate services and support through an integrated service network to enhance the safety and well-being of these vulnerable populations throughout Arizona. By focusing on an integrated array of services, DES actively involves families and communities in the daily work across DES.
Goal 2: Increase Self-Sufficiency
For individuals and families to escape the hardships of poverty, meet their basic needs and have the opportunity of economic mobility, they require certain skills and supports to help them find and keep a job and necessary work supports such as child care and health care to maintain quality of life. By focusing on the "bigger picture", DES' close relationship with community organizations and resources, and the integration of a spectrum of services both within and outside the agency, DES works to provide or assist in finding those services required to meet individuals' and families' needs. Individuals are provided the tools to not only increase their employability and economic mobility, but are empowered to take ownership of their success as well. DES also works to increase the opportunities for individuals to access information and benefits through web-based and interactive voice response systems. This promotes customer self-sufficiency and increases cost efficiency in the delivery of service. Department services aim to move clients from just "getting by" to "getting ahead." The Department also provides employment-related support services that increase opportunities for older adults, veterans, individuals with disabilities, refugees, and youth who have aged out of foster care. In addition, programs such as unemployment insurance, child support, supplemental nutrition assistance (formerly known as food stamps), child care, and medical assistance eligibility provide important services and supports to help individuals and families increase self-sufficiency.
Goal 3: Develop the Capacity of Communities
DES' integrated, family- and community-centered services are assisting Arizonans in achieving permanency, stability, and overall well-being. Strategies for this goal reflect the Department's service integration business practices, blending the strengths of DES staff, community partners, families, and individuals to improve outcomes for clients and to reduce the number of vulnerable children, adults, and families in need of DES services. These strategies include: Partnering with Faith-Based Organizations initiative to intentionally engage Faith-Based Organizations as partners for strengthening individuals and families, and increasing their self-sufficiency; child welfare community partnership teams across the state that encourage child welfare staff to find meaningful ways to partner with communities so that the responsibility for supporting families is broadly shared; the Arizona Partnership to End Childhood Hunger that works to ensure all children have access to nutritious food, with first steps including a community-
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wide mobilization to provide better information for parents and children, increase access to healthy food, and improve economic supports so families can afford nutritious food.
In addition, DES is a primary partner with Project Homeless Connect (PHC), a one day event designed to provide housing resources, services, and hospitality in a convenient one-stop location for people experiencing homelessness. The Department also partners with Open Table, a faith-based organization whose goal is to end homelessness one person at a time by matching individuals and families living in homelessness to the support and assistance of individual congregation members and groups. The Department's Veteran's Employment Administration staff regularly participate in "Stand Down" events for veterans that help bring awareness to agencies and veterans on what services are available throughout the state for veterans, and also provide immediate services and resources to homeless or in-need veterans and their families. These events have been very successful, reaching hundreds of veterans and their families throughout Arizona.
By identifying people at risk for poverty, abuse, homelessness, and dependence, prevention and early intervention services and supports can be provided to mitigate the need for more intensive intervention or remedial services. Substantial reductions are being achieved in the number of children, especially young children, placed in group homes and shelters. The Department is second in the nation in assisting people with developmental disabilities to live independently or with their families.
DES services have a direct, positive impact on the lives of children, adults, and families in Arizona by providing protective services for vulnerable children and adults, helping families meet their basic needs for food and shelter, providing parents the skills and supports they need to find and keep a job, assisting individuals with disabilities by providing training and services that foster independence, and partnering with communities throughout Arizona to support families in their neighborhoods. Ultimately, the Department's desired outcomes include that children, adults, and families will be safer in their homes and communities and living in the least restrictive setting, individuals and their families will see improvements in economic mobility and self-sufficiency, and there will be a reduction in families' reliance on government programs.
Over the next five years, the DES Strategic Plan projects the direction of the Department and how it will get there by integrating and delivering quality, effective, and efficient human services. Above all, the plan highlights how the Department will continue to administer human services for Arizonans, while carrying out its mission to promote the safety, well-being, and self-sufficiency for the children, adults, and families of Arizona served by DES.
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Goal 1
: Strengthen Individuals and Families
Goal 2
: Increase Self-Sufficiency
Goal 3
: Develop the Capacity of Communities
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Strengthen Individuals and Families
Goal Focus
All children, adults and families deserve to reside in the least restrictive and safest environment with appropriate support services. The safety and well-being of vulnerable Arizonans in need of the agency's protective and support services are crucial.
These vulnerable populations include children and families involved with the Child and Adult Protective Services systems, individuals seeking one-time supports, individuals with disabilities, older and at-risk adults, refugees, homeless individuals, and victims of domestic violence.
DES' priorities focus on a holistic, inclusive approach embracing the strengths of individuals and families and leveraging these to improve other areas with which they may struggle. Providing an array of services, integrated across Department programs and with other state agencies and community partners to best meet the needs of the client (especially those with multiple needs), will result in strengthening Arizona's individuals and families by assisting them in achieving self-sufficiency, safety, and overall well-being.
Desired Outcomes:
Children growing up in nurturing family environments
Vulnerable individuals, children and families living in safe environments
Communities actively involved in promoting the safety and well-being of vulnerable children and families
Increased quality of life through receipt of needed consumer-directed, individual and family-centered support services
Create and implement comprehensive approaches to meet the needs of persons with disabilities, the state's aging population, persons reported to Child and Adult Protective Services, victims of domestic violence, refugees, and individuals and families who are homeless.
Build on the strengths and support systems available in families and communities.
Identify those at risk for poverty, abuse, and homelessness, and children and adults with disabilities, for early intervention.
Provide preventive and remedial services and support through an integrated service network.
Assist older and at-risk adults and individuals with a disability to live independently.
Develop and implement tribal partnerships to jointly provide integrated services to strengthen individuals and families.
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Safely reduce the number of children entering the foster care system and the number of children who are in the foster care system by developing safe alternatives.
Safely reduce the number of children in congregate care and place children in family-like settings (kinship care and family foster homes).
Increase the number of youth participating in the Independent Living Subsidy Program.
Increase the number of children in foster care achieving permanency through family reunification, adoption, or legal guardianship.
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Increase Self-Sufficiency
Goal Focus
The lack of economic security among Arizona's vulnerable populations puts them at risk of needing more intensive services and intervention.
DES works to increase self-sufficiency through enhancing employability and providing employment supports to mitigate risk factors associated with the need for DES services. The Department focuses on giving families the tools they need to effectively and permanently escape the hardships of poverty. Wrap-around services and coordinated case planning promote economic mobility for individuals the Department serves.
DES strives to assist vulnerable individuals to attain employment to the extent of their capabilities, such as older adults, veterans, individuals with disabilities, refugees, and youth aging out of foster care. In addition, programs such as unemployment insurance, child support, supplemental nutrition assistance (formerly food stamps), child care, and medical assistance eligibility provide important services and supports to vulnerable individuals and families.
DES also works to increase the opportunities for individuals to access information and benefits through web-based and interactive voice response systems. This promotes customer self-sufficiency and increases cost efficiency in the delivery of service.
Arizona Department of Economic Security Five Year Strategic Plan SFY 2011-2015
Desired Outcomes:
Individuals and families who meet their basic needs for food and housing
Parents with the skills and support needed to find and keep good paying jobs
Increased self-sufficiency, economic mobility, and quality of life through employment
Increased utilization of natural supports and community resources, resulting in less dependence on government programs
Provide core safety net services to meet basic human needs and stabilize families to enable them to achieve maximum employability and self-sufficiency.
Work closely with the business community to identify opportunities for employing at-risk individuals.
Provide employment-related services and assistance supports to vulnerable populations, such as older adults, individuals with disabilities, refugees, veterans, economically disadvantaged youth and adults, and youth who have aged out of foster care.
Collaborate with the tribal communities and identify strengths and barriers while establishing and providing opportunities to achieve self-sufficiency for individuals.
Increase the number of individuals with disabilities successfully employed.
Reduce the number of families on Cash Assistance by increasing self-sufficiency through increased employment placements and receipt of child support income.
Increase the number of clients who are diverted from Cash Assistance by providing appropriate employment-related supportive services.
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Refer Cash Assistance clients to subsidized child care to ensure full participation in employment-related activities.
Increase the number of certified family child care providers so parents have more child care options.
Make child support a reliable source of income for the families we serve.
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Develop the Capacity of Communities
Goal Focus
Stable social and family relationships and living environments are essential for children, adults, and families. DES' integrated, family-and community-centered services are assisting Arizonans in achieving permanency, stability, and overall well-being through stable living arrangements in the least restrictive settings within their families and communities. DES' integrated services incorporate both systemic and community-based strategies that expand agency and community capacity to serve families and individuals more expansively.
The Department recognizes the interconnectedness and interdependence between DES services and community resources and that each community is unique and best able to identify its assets and needs. DES is committed to enhancing the role of family voice and proactive expansion of community partnerships and collaboration with other state agencies to enhance the delivery of human services and achieve better outcomes for Arizonans. The Department collaborates with local governments and counties on emergency preparedness for special needs populations.
Desired Outcomes:
Vulnerable children, adults, and families are able to live safely and in the least restrictive environments
Enhanced quality of life for children, adults, and families through:
Increased stability in family and community relationships and living environments
Receipt of needed consumer-directed, individual and family- centered support services
Communities are actively involved in promoting the safety and well-being of vulnerable individuals and families
Older adults and persons with disabilities are able to remain in their communities and avoid the need for institutionalization
Individuals are engaged in a positive way with their families and communities
Collaborate with community partners provide core safety net services to meet basic human needs
Build on the strengths and support systems available in families and communities.
Provide preventive services and supports through an integrated service network.
Build relationships with tribal communities through cooperation, collaboration, and communication to enhance the quality of life for Native American children, adults, and families.
Engage Faith-based Organizations as partners to promote the safety, well-being and self-sufficiency of individuals and families
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Work with Arizona's policymakers and communities in providing emergency shelters and transitional housing for victims of domestic violence and homeless individuals and families.
Increase the number of children placed in family-like settings when placement in out-of-home care is necessary.
Increase the use of community outreach and collaborative efforts to provide needed services.
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The following areas are some of the current challenges in the human services environment that most significantly impact the work of the Department.
Issue 1: Population Growth
Arizona remains one of the fastest-growing states in the nation. State statistics identify several populations that will grow significantly, including the birth-to-five year old population, and the number of individuals ages 60 and older.
According to U.S. Census data, the number of children in Arizona under five years of age will double from 2000 to 2030 to over 750,000 children (seven percent of the state's population). Research shows that comprehensive, high-quality care and early learning experiences are linked to children's success in school and in life. As Arizona's number of young children increases, DES will be required to continue work with its partners in community and state government and federal government to maximize the supports that can be provided to ensure successful outcomes.
By 2020, more than 1 in 4 people in Arizona (26 percent) will be over 60 years of age and for those over 60, the fastest-growing age group is of persons over 85 years of age. As the population ages, Arizona is likely to see an increase in healthy older adults with the time, ability and interest to find news ways to contribute to their community. As the population ages, Arizona is also likely to see an increase in people with medical complications that will limit their ability to live independently. These changes will increase demand for long-term care services and supports in order to meet the health care and other basic needs of seniors.
The Department must strengthen partnerships with other state agencies such as the Department of Health Services (DHS) and the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS), as well as local governmental entities, public and private service providers, communities and faith-based organizations to help meet the needs of these growing populations.
Issue 2: Social and Economic Stressors
Families today face increasingly complex issues. Violence against children continues to be a substantial concern, oftentimes brought on by the compounding effect of multiple risk factors including poverty and substance abuse, thus establishing critical needs for protective, remedial, prevention and intervention services for children and families. As more and more people have children later in life, there is a growing segment of the population that are raising children at the same time they are taking care of parents. Supports may be necessary for these caregivers to succeed in meeting this challenge.
In Arizona, more than 14 percent of people live in poverty, and 20 percent of Arizona's children are living below the federal poverty level. The federal poverty level for a family of four is currently $22,050. The number of individuals living at or below 200% of the poverty level (which is portrayed as a more accurate indicator of being in or near-poverty) is about 34 percent of Arizona's population. Poverty is not a small problem in our state. One of three Arizonans is struggling to make ends meet. According to U.S. Census data, 737,000 Arizona children under age 18 live in families at or below 200% of the poverty level this account for 45 percent of all children in Arizona.
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Arizona and our nation is experiencing an unprecedented economic downturn. Arizona is burdened by a large portion of the nation's mortgage foreclosures and losses in the housing and construction industries. Economists are predicting that the unemployment rate in Arizona could reach at least ten percent before conditions improve. Like its counterpart agencies in nearly all 50 states, DES feels the impact of this economic decline with dramatic rises in unemployment insurance caseloads, as well as increases in the number of families seeking assistance to meet basic needs such as housing, food and health care. People who have never experienced financial difficulties before are coming in to DES offices for services for the first time. They need the temporary supportive services from the state and community to help them weather the economic downturn.
Moving DES forward through the coming five years requires thoughtful consideration of how we reconcile our plans and aspirations for the future with the current financial environment. Decisions must be made that respond to the specific, immediate needs that we face due to rising caseloads and more Arizonans experiencing poverty. It is in these challenging times that the social safety net provided by the Department and the community is most important. Through deliberate planning, the Department must identify and target resources on the core services that are essential to ensure that the basic needs of individuals and families in Arizona are met.
To the extent that resources allow, we are also presented with an opportunity to work with families to help them face underlying economic stability issues, thereby helping people move to self-sufficiency. Partnerships with the community, as discussed below, are one avenue of opportunity that exists to enhance supports to reduce long-term poverty. Another strategy that the Department has initiated and can maintain is expanding knowledge for working families of the federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and the child care tax credit. The EITC, on average, provides low income working families with a tax credit of over $1,700 per year. Through the Jobs program, DES can continue to provide training and education for employment. It is important to consider the view held by some economists that the extent of job loss in the U.S. may reflect a restructuring of the American economy, with key industries – such as manufacturing, financial services and retail – abandoning whole areas of business. The need to retool workers to fit the new economy will likely exceed the capacity of programs such as Jobs to meet the need.
In addition to our efforts to retool workers, we are also supplying critical supports for Arizonans who are currently unemployed. The Unemployment Insurance (UI) program is a partnership with employers and the federal government that can provide up to $6,240 in regular unemployment insurance benefits. Currently, federal extensions are also available for up to 53 weeks and the federal/state Extended Benefit (EB) program can pay up to 20 additional weeks of unemployment benefits. These extensions are limited and will expire over time but they will allow unemployed citizens a safety net for the time offered.
Issue 3: Responsive to the Community
DES and its services are an integral part of the Arizona community. In order to carry out its mission to promote the safety, well-being, and self-sufficiency of Arizona's children, adults, and families, the Department recognizes the interconnectedness and interdependence between DES services and community resources. Although our community partnerships are critical to us in providing an effective service delivery network, we have had to reduce payment rates for services in response to resource constraints. Strong, mutually beneficial relationships are continuously being forged with a broad range of local community organizations and providers, including private, non-profit, faith-based and advocacy organizations, as well as other state agencies and Native American tribes.
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Working closely with communities and customers throughout Arizona is a top priority for the Department. The Department is committed to continuing to expand and strengthen these relationships by involving community constituencies in strategic planning and resource allocation efforts. DES recognizes that each community is unique and knows best what they need. Not only do communities have the answers, but they also know what questions need to be asked and DES is committed to listening. The Department is enhancing the role of family voice, community partnerships, tribal relationships, and sister agency collaboration to improve outcomes for Arizona's children and families.
DES continues to move forward in collaboration with its many community partners to accomplish the goals set forth by the Department. The integrated and innovative approach to human services that is inherent to DES is crucial to developing and incorporating how to best assist the populations DES serves in order to achieve the best possible outcomes for the vulnerable individuals, children and families of Arizona.
Issue 4: Federal Funding
In order to maintain service levels in fiscal year 2011, significant state investments will need to be made to offset federal fund sources that are either expiring or fully depleted. In absence of the required investment, deeper reductions to already significantly reduced Department services will be required. The federal funding reduction is primarily due to the loss of regular Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) contingency funds as well as the expiration of grant augmentations and matching enhancements received through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA, P.L. 111-5).
The TANF Contingency Fund was established in 1996 as part of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act (PRWORA), which reformed welfare and created the TANF block grant. The Contingency Fund received a one-time $2 billion appropriation and was designed to assist states in times of recession by providing additional federal TANF dollars. Arizona first received contingency funds in 2008. Although Arizona was only the second State to begin receiving contingency funds, due to the nationwide recession there have been at least seventeen States that have relied on these dollars. As a result, it is estimated that the original $2 billion appropriation will be fully depleted by the end of calendar year 2009. As part of the Department's "15% Reduction Exercise", plans have been developed to account for the resulting $42 million short fall this fiscal year.
ARRA, commonly referred to as the federal stimulus, augmented a number of the Department's federal grants, including funds that support services for individuals with developmental disabilities, child welfare, early intervention services, and work related to administering the supplemental nutrition assistance program. Many of these fund sources expire early in fiscal year 2011, making it critical that the Department receive funding to maintain service levels.
In fiscal years 2008 through 2010, the availability of TANF contingency and ARRA funds reduced the level of General Fund support the Department otherwise would have required. These funds provided short-term assistance to provide an alternative to even more severe program reductions. These funding alternatives will no longer be available in fiscal year 2011, requiring an increased General Fund commitment to avoid deeper service reductions across the Department's services.
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Issue 5: Department Capacity
The Department has a proud history of innovation and efficiency in the delivery of human services. The strategic issues discussed above point to the necessity for even more innovation and efficiency throughout the Department. The Department will need to ensure that core services continue while incorporating inventive and efficient business strategies to manage through the difficult years ahead.
One of the challenges to Departmental capacity is staffing reductions. Previously enacted budget cutbacks have resulted in steep reductions across the Department's programs and operations which have impacted clients, employees, and contracting businesses across the state. The Department had to implement layoffs of approximately 800 agency staff, about eight percent of the Department's workforce. These reductions leave less personnel to deliver core services and build a more efficient and effective organization.
State government, like most American businesses, relies on information technology for the provision of services, financial management, personnel management and responding to federal and state reporting requirements. The Department requires a sound technological infrastructure to support integrated service delivery, increased demand for services, and E-government expansion to improve access to services and facilitate improved outcomes for children, adults, and families throughout Arizona.
Several information technology systems within the Department are no longer functionally adequate to meet internal and external business needs. Financial circumstances have halted efforts to invest in major improvements and modern, integrated information technology systems. The Department is faced with the need to continue to manage operations as well as it can use the existing, antiquated infrastructure.
DES, like many other state agencies, experiences challenges in attracting and retaining a qualified workforce. Recruitment, development and retention of qualified staff are crucial to achieving the Department's vision, mission, and goals. Repositioning the workforce is a major focus of health and human services across the country. As the Department manages through the rapidly changing environment and brings focus to its core work, there are opportunities to encourage and empower staff and build a stronger workforce.
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Agency Incremental Costs for All Funds
General Funds
Other Appropriated Funds
Other Non-Appropriated Funds
Federal Non-Appropriated Funds
Funding Amounts in Thousands
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Agency Funding Total for All Funds
(Sum of Incremental Costs for Addressing Goals and the Base for Each Year)
General Funds
Other Appropriated Funds
Other Non-Appropriated Funds
Federal Non-Appropriated Funds
Aggregate Agency Level Total
Funding Amounts in Thousands
Arizona Department of Economic Security Page 20
Five Year Strategic Plan SFY 2011-2015
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Gear up for some serious hockey action with this Reebok® structured stretch-fit hat! It features a variety of graphics, including embroidered NHL® team logos on the front and back; an oversized, cropped logo is displayed on the left brim. The tonal mesh back offers welcome ventilation.
- Contrast-colored undervisor
- Made in the USA
- NHL team logos embroidered on front and back
- Officially licensed
- Oversized, cropped logo on left brim
- Stretch-fit hat
- Team-colored front and bill; tonal mesh back
- Ventilating eyelets
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O Apóstolo tells the story of Ramón (Carlos Blanco) and Xavier (Luis Tosar of Sleep Tight), a couple thieves who escape prison with the intent of tracking down some stolen jewels Xavier had hidden away in a small farmhouse in a small village years earlier. Almost immediately they split up (by accident) and Ramón must
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Showing 1-24 of 120 items found in Events
Festival of the Vine
Geneva restaurants create an array of specialties under an outdoor tent at the "Flavor Fare" partnered with wine and live musical entertainment. The Fall Harvest Market offers food and floral demos, unique displays plus Kid's Patch activities. An arts and crafts show, flower market, horse-drawn carriage rides and several exceptional wine tasting and dinner events also take place around the historic downtown.
CITY: Geneva
City of St. Charles RiverFest
Unique among Chicagoland festivals, Riverfest features the annual ancient sport of dragon boat racing, a 40-ton Fantasy Sand Sculpture, water ski shows, carnival, petting zoo, and an assortment of events and entertainment for all ages.
CITY: St. Charles
Fall Color Festival
Visit The Morton Arboretum this season and enjoy the beautiful fall color of trees and plants from more than 40 different countries. On select days in October, enjoy a variety of seasonally-themed activities for kids and families. Admire nature-themed scarecrows showcased around Meadow Lake on our Scarecrow Trail, open daily in October from 7am - sunset. The Fall Color 5K Run & Walk will be Sunday, October 5 at 8am. Run under a canopy of brilliant fall color on our rolling, USATF-certified course. Enjoy our Theatre-Hikes at 3pm on weekends in October plus Columbus Day.
CITY: Lisle
Kane County Flea Market/April 2015
Monthly Flea Market at the Kane County Fairgrounds. "The Best in the Midwest or Anywhere". Up to 1000 dealers display and sell antiques, collectibles & Fancy junque. Food served all day.
CITY: St. Charles
Boo! at the Zoo
Halloween fun awaits families at Brookfield Zoo's annual Boo! at the Zoo celebration. The popular daytime event, presented by Fisher-Price, features a Costume Parade, Costume Showcase, professional pumpkin-carving demonstrations, not-so-scary games and activities, special animal Zoo Chats, and haunted hayrides. For more information, visit www.CZS.org or call (708) 688-8000.
CITY: Brookfield
Didier Farms' Pumpkin Fest
Bring the family out for this annual fall festival. Hayrides, pony rides, camel rides. Children's kiddie rides, exotic petting zoo, parakeet exhibit, corn maze, concessions, pig races(weekends only). Be sure to visit Grandma D.'s Bake Shop for the best pies, cookies, and fudge. Homemade apple cider, fresh made kettle korn and pumpkin donuts also available.
CITY: Lincolnshire
Swedish Days Festival
This "granddaddy" of Illinois festivals features a host of family-friendly activities with live musical entertainment, a carnival, rosemaling show, pet parade, kids' day fun, grand parade, the state's largest music competition, multi-ethnic food plus great shopping in our historic downtown. Geneva's train station is located just blocks from the festivities.
CITY: Geneva
Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo
December 18th & 19th December 26th - 31st January 1st 4-9pm Start a new family tradition at Chicagoland's largest light festival featuring over 120 animated light displays and million twinkling lights. Come celebrate the holiday season with family and friends during Brookfield Zoos 29th annual Holiday Magic. Enjoy live entertainment, amazing animals, model trains and a train ride, special Dolphin Show, Sing to the Animals and professional ice carvers. Call or visit website for more info.
CITY: Brookfield
Wizard World Chicago Comic Con at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center
THURSDAY-FRIDAY-SATURDAY-SUNDAY, AUGUST 8-9-10-11, 2013 Show Hours: Thursday, August 8, 2013 - 12 NOON - 8pm Friday, August 9, 2013 - 12 NOON - 8pm Saturday, August 10, 2013 - 10am - 7pm Sunday, August 11, 2013 - 10am - 5pm All full-price attendees will receive a limited-edition, exclusive cover variant of The Walking Dead #1 by TBD! Artist will be on hand to sign. Extremely limited quantities are available to fans only while supplies last! **Children 10 and under get in FREE when accompanied by a paid adult (Limit 2 Per Paid Adult Tickets). All show tickets will be e-mailed AND available as a pdf file after purchase.**
CITY: Rosemont
Warrenville Holly Days
Holly Days, sponsored by the Warrenville Park District is the City's annual holiday celebration that marks Santa's official entry into Warrenville. Guests can enjoy a warm bonfire, raffles, free horse and carriage rides, hot cider and cookies, and, of course, a visit with Santa. Local Park District and school dance troops, singers, and bands entertain attendees during the event. It is at this event that Warrenville officially turns on its holiday lights creating an array of colors for passersby along Route 56 to see. Holly Days, primarily for Warrenville residents, gives the community an opportunity to come together and kick off the holiday season.
CITY: Warrenville
Festival of the Horse & Drum
Festival of the Horse & Drum is an equestrian festival with a diverse and exciting twist. American Indian Pow-Wow, Horsemen of Spain, Portugal & Mexico, Tanner & Glaze. Equestrian games, Equine abilities expo & more.
CITY: St. Charles
Paddock Hills Equestrian Center
Imagine a golden ball of Midwestern sun breaking on the horizon. As the night dew still clings to the vines and the grass in the pastures, a farm comes to life with the sights and sounds of morning. Hot coffee steeps in the pot. Hard-working farm-hands begin the daily chores. Horses whinny as the cool rush of morning air fills their lungs. The gently rolling hills are aglow with another new day. This is the beauty of horses and the magic of a vineyard. Paddock Hills Equestrian Center is located with Prairie Orchard Farm vineyard in the majestic countryside of Union, IL, and is minutes from the I-90 expressway, but miles away from the hustle and bustle of the city and suburbs. Whether, attending one of our many horse shows, riding lessons, clinics, or programs, we are sure that your time with us will be well spent.
CITY: Union
Rockin' at the Park
Free Summer Concert Series The Rockin' in the Park festival will be a summer-long concert series, beginning in May and continuing through August. The festival features live bands, fireworks and food and beverage tents on the great lawn in the center of MB Financial Park at Rosemont. Visit www.mbparkatrosemont.com for complete line up!
CITY: Rosemont
Kane County Flea Market/June 2015
Monthly flea market at the Kane County Fairgrounds. "The best in the midwest or Anywhere". Up to 1000 dealers display and sell antiques, collectibles & Fancy Junque. Food served all day,
CITY: St. Charles
Geneva Arts Fair
The Geneva Arts Fair transforms downtown Geneva into a venue for over 150 esteemed artists and draws a crowd of more than 20,000. The juried show was voted a Top 200 Fine Craft Fair by Art Fair SourceBook and a previous winner of "Best Craft or Art Show" by West Suburban Living magazine. Admission is free and includes a children's art area with special activities.
CITY: Geneva
30th Annual St. Charles Scarecrow Festival
More than 100 handcrafted Scarecrows on display. View and vote for your favorites. Huge juried craft show, carnival, great food, continuous free live entertainment, many free children's activities, make your own scarecrow, and much more! A celebration of the autumn season!
CITY: St. Charles
Kane County Flea Market - March 2015
"The Best in the Midwest or Anywhere" - Up to 1,000 dealers display and sell antiques, collectibles & Fancy Junque. A country breakfast is served on Sundays.
CITY: St. Charles
17th Annual St. Charles Fine Art Show
Located along the banks of the Fox River, this juried art show features 100 fine artists, live music, demonstrations and artists' awards.
CITY: St. Charles
2nd Annual Outdoor Sculpture Walk
Take a self-guided tour of public art from June 2 to September 2 as part of the 2nd annual Sculpture Walk in downtown Oak Park. The walk features 12 world-class sculptures prominently placed among Oak Park's many shops and restaurants.
CITY: Oak Park
The Stadium at the Ballpark
The Stadium at the Ballpark at Rosemont is the 2,000-seat home of the Chicago Bandits, the 2011 NPF World Champion women's softball organization, East Leyden High School's girls softball team and the Rosemont School's boys and girls softball team. It is located on the west side of 1-294, and is the first facility of its kind in the nation built expressly for women's professional sports. The team plays 25 home games a year, from June through August.
CITY: Rosemont
Autumn Festival - An Arts & Crafts Affair
At this annual fest, you can browse the works of more than 500 artists and craftsmen from 30 states. Find home decor and gifts (all handcrafted and one-of-a-kind), entertainment, and plenty of food and drink. Voted one of the top 100 art shows in the country by Sunshine Artist Magazine.
CITY: Villa Park
Kane County Flea Market / November, 2014
Monthly flea market at the Kane County Fairgrounds. "The Best in the Midwest or Anywhere". Up to 1000 dealers display and sell antiques, collectibles & Francy Funque. Food served all day.
CITY: St. Charles
Kane County Flea Market / December, 2014
Monthly flea market at the Kane County Fairgrounds. "The Best in the Midwest or Anywhere". Up to 1000 dealers display and sell antiques, collectibles & Fancy Junque. Food served all day.
CITY: St. Charles
Illumination: Tree Lights at the Morton Arboretum
Come to The Morton Arboretum this holiday season to see trees in a different light! Illumination will engage your senses with dazzling projections, trees that respond to your touch and sound, and vivid, electric colors throughout. This is an outdoor event on a one-mile, gently rolling, paved path that takes approximately one and one-half hours to complete. Please dress for the weather. Food and beverage concessions are available for purchase. Walking along the paved trail you can hug a tree to make it grow brighter, sing to a tree and watch it change color, interact with light and color with a swipe of your hand, and many more surprising experiences around every turn! Also, be sure to warm up next to fire pits while enjoying hot cocoa, s'mores, and other delights, stop in to browse the holiday wares at The Arboretum Store, and enjoy energy-efficient, environmentally-friendly LED lighting. Please note, the event closed November 27, December 1, 8, 15, 24, 25.
CITY: Lisle


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For the second straight day, the BMC Racing Team put pressure on the peloton at the Tour of Belgium. Friday, it was Marcus Burghardt who drove a five-man breakaway for much of the race.
Four Minutes' Lead
"The plan was for me to go in the break so we could put some pressure on Omega Pharma-Lotto and the other guys could stay in the peloton," Burghardt said. Burghardt's escape went away in first seven kilometers of the 187 km race and its margin maximized at four minutes with 100 km to go. The German said there was hope of surviving to the finish. "You never know what happens after the Kemmelberg on the small roads," Burghardt said. "But we knew that Lotto would give everything to catch us back." Aidis Kroupis (Landbouwkrediet) won the bunch sprint and Philippe Gilbert (Omega Pharma-Lotto) took the overall lead.
Giro d'Italia, Stage 19: Tschopp's Escape
Macugnaga, Italy – Johann Tschopp was part of a six-man breakaway that was caught 15 km from the finish of a 209 km sometimes wet and windy stage at the Giro d'Italia. The group led by four minutes at one time, but was brought back on the final climb to Macugnaga. "We knew (Stefano) Garzelli was going to attack on the mid-race climb of the Mottarone," BMC Racing Team Assistant Director Max Sciandri said. "When he went, Tschopp went right with him and closed the gap. Unfortunately in the end, Katusha closed the break down." Tschopp went on to finish 34th, while Paolo Tiralongo (Astana) was gifted the stage win by overall leader Alberto Contador.


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"Anthropology...is the study of the human species and its immediate ancestors. Anthropology is a uniquely comparative and holistic science...the study of the whole of the human condition: past, present and future; biology, society, language, and culture. ... It is a comparative field that examines all societies, ancient and modern, simple and complex .. [and] .. offers a unique crosss-cultural perspective by constantly comparing the customs of one society with those of others." C.P. Kottak, Anthropology: Appreciating Human Diversity (2011)
"Sociology is the scientific study of social life, social change, and the social causes and consequences of human behavior. Since all human behavior is social, the subject matter of sociology ranges from the intimate family to the hostile mob; from organized crime to religious cults; from the divisions of gender, race, and social class to the shared beliefs of a common culture; and from the sociology of work to the sociology of sport." American Sociological Association, 2002


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The Urban Gardener: Rooftop Gardens
1. Gregorio's garden on Apartment Therapy
2. GreekFOOD.tv
3. Photo of the Villa Maria in Oaxaca from Trip Advisor
4. Alejandro's rooftop on Apartment Therapy
5. Sotheby's via babble
6. 66 Square Feet
7. Chris and Diana's rooftop on Apartment Therapy
8. Ted Trimpa's Rooftop container garden on Denver Post
9. Groundworks
10. Sunset
12. Groundworks via babble
13. Brooklyn Magazine
14. Pulltab Design
15. Architectural Digest via Le Fox
- Living It Up: Rooftop Gardens and Green Roofs
- Inspiration: Rooftop Gardens
- Grassy & Gorgeous: Green Roof Inspiration
- Terraces & Rooftops: New York City Outdoor Spaces
(Images: as credited above)
5 Comments
I'm looking for recommendations from deck/rooftop gardeners on what plants can be used as windbreaks. I have a nice rooftop deck where I'm doing container gardening, but I live in the (literal) Windy City, and the wind is already causing some issues. Any suggestions?
Makes me happy just looking at these pictures. They all look lovely...especially the 5th one.
@BrookJaxon: Look at the Juniper family - there are a lot of varieties of varying heights. They are hearty, evergreen and pretty dense so they would serve well as windbreaks. Also, some of the taller grasses would do well, as would something like a dwarf bamboo. I would check your local nursery for advice on what would grow best in your climate and survive your winters.
Alas, as I overlook the myriad of apartment roofs from my humble apartment, I see lots of flat roofs, a few shaded patio spaces, but not a single garden or plant. All that space that could be used for a nice place to relax to after work or dinner in the evening. High above the noisy crowds, with only starlight above, flowers and shrubs around you. All to avoid maintenance issues and noise. Sign.
I really wish more roofs were designed to support gardens. I look across the street at two enormous, flat, black roofs, and I just wish they had been built with planting in mind. Shame soil and water are so damn heavy. I imagine the extra construction costs would balance out in the increased property value of the neighbourhood (although I could be biased as I think green spaces in the city are more valuable than anything).


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Heatherwick to design major scuplture in New York
London 2012 cauldron designer Thomas Heatherwick is to work on a major public sculpture for New York
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Hey, recently me and a few of my friends are getting into making YouTube videos, though our friend that was recording for us, sadly past away. He used the Canon EOS 550D Digital SLR Camera.
Now without him we need to buy ourselves a decent, durable camera in the lines of about £300-350 maybe even £400 at a push!
So I have been looking into Digital SLR cameras and was thinking about buying the Canon EOS 1100D Digital SLR Camera, though if i bought it, I would not be able to use it before hand, so i'd like to get other opinions before I go ahead and invest in it.
I have also been looking into a few other camera, here is a list of a few...
-Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera
-Canon EOS Rebel T2i
-Nikon D3200 Digital SLR Camera Body Only
Though obviously the problem about wanting the Canon EOS Rebel T2i is the pricing is out of our range and would take a while to get the money.
So if anybody knows of any camera, preferably DSLR, that have too recording and sound quality, and hopefully within our price range, then please do tell me. Also if you guys have any advice on what I am speaking about then please that would be nice also.
p.s. The audio quality does not have to be that great if the camera has an audio input port, as I would eventually like to invest in an external "boom" mic, I think they are called, Feel free to correct me if i'm wrong.
-Thanks before hand, I'll be checking replies over the course of this month, and would hopefully like to make the decision by the end of the month, ready to record again next month.
Again, thank you for reading, and please, any help would be appreciated, without our "tech guy" that role has been placed on me, and your help is greatly needed. :P


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Live Stats & Twitter
Radio: KOZN 1620 AM Online Radio & Live Stats: GoCreighton.com
Twitter: @cu_baseball Facebook: facebook.com/CreightonBaseball
Probable Pitching Matchups
Tuesday ERA W-L App GS CG SHO IP H R ER BB SO
NU- Tyler Niederklein (Sr.-RHP) 5.16 0-1 11 4 0 0 22.2 21 15 13 23 14
CU- Matt Warren (Fr.-RHP) 3.18 2-2 12 5 0 0 34.0 30 16 12 11 15
The Road So Far
At 28-14, the Jays have won three of their last four games and sit in third place in the Missouri Valley Conference at 11-7. Creighton took the series at Wichita State, winning the first two games with the Shockers.
The Bluejays battle rival Nebraska in the
second meeting between the two squads this season.
Creighton took the first meeting (5-3) on April 26, but the Jays have not taken the series with the
Huskers since 2010.
The Road Ahead
The Bluejays close the regular season by hosting Missouri State for the Bluejays final MVC series in Creighton history. Both teams will enter the game on Friday with an 11-7 mark in conference. The team that takes the series is likely to finish third, while the losing team will place fourth.
Jays vs. Nebraska
Located less than an hour apart, Creighton and Nebraska are familiar foes on the baseball field.
Nebraska holds an 81-42-2 series edge on the Jays, but Creighton has won the last two meetings.
The Huskers took the three game series in 2011 & 2012 two games to one, while Creighton's last
series win came in 2010 (also 2-1). Coach Servais is
12-18 versus Nebraska in his career. When playing in Omaha, the Huskers hold a 51-14-1 edge over the Bluejays.
Scouting the Huskers (23-26, 14-7 Big Ten)
Since the Husker and Bluejays first met on April 26, Nebraska has posted just a 4-6 record. The Huskers, however, come into Tuesday's contest following a
series win at Minnesota (two games to one), the site of the Big Ten Tournament next week.
As a team, Nebraska is hitting .284 on the season. Senior Chad Christensen remains the biggest threat in the order, leading the Huskers with a .372 average and 71 hits on the season. Batting in the cleanup spot, Christensen also leads the team with 38 runs scored and eight stolen bases.
On the mound the Huskers have a combined 4.51ERA. Senior Tyler Niederklein is expected to get the start versus the Jays. Niederklein has a 5.16 ERA in 11 appearances. He has thrown just 22.2 innings this season, issuing 23 walks and recording 14 strikeouts. The Huskers, however, have gotten solid innings from their bullpen. Specifically senior Dylan Vogt and sophomore Josh Roeder. The duo have a 3.12 and 1.88 ERA respectively, appearing in 451 games combined. Vogt leads the squad with eight saves, while Roeder has three.
Defensively the Huskers have been solid, posting a .982 fielding percentage with just 35 errors in 49 games.
First Nebraska vs. Creighton Meeting Critical
Since head coach Ed Servais took over for Creighton in 2004, the team that has won the first meeting between Nebraska and Creighton has taken the series each season except 2009 when only two games were played. That season, the Jays claimed the first meeting (15-0), but fell in the second matchup (3-4). With the first schedule meeting between Creighton and Nebraska (April 9) washed out, Tuesday will be the final contest.
Series Record since 2004:
2004: 1-2
2005: 2-3
2006: 0-3
2007: 2-1
2008: 0-3
2009: 1-1
2010: 2-1
2011: 1-2
2012: 1-2
2013: 1-0
Bluejay Acorns
- The Jays are 14-1 when scoring in the first inning & 16-2 when scoring first.
- Creighton is 20-3 when drawing five or more walks.
- The Jays are 24-1 when outhitting their opponent.
- The Bluejays are 28-6 when they score three runs or more, 0-8 when they don't.
- Creighton is 10-2 in freshman Tommy Strunc's 11 starts. The Bluejays are 5-1 in midweek games.
- The Bluejays are 12-4 in night games.
- Creighton is 13-0 when Jake Peter pitches.
- The Jays bullpen is 15-5 with a 3.15 ERA and 12 saves in 191.1 innings (67 ER) this season. The 2012 bullpen went 13-10 with a 3.50 ERA and eight saves in 236.2 innings.
- Senior Brennan Murphy leads the team with nine bunt singles and five outfield assists.
- Mark Winkelman has 124 career relief appearances for the Jays, the rest of the
Creighton staff has a combined 140 relief appearances.
TD Tidbits
- Pitcher's Paradise: In its brief history, TDAPO hasn't been kind to hitters. The combined average is just .243 (1627-of-6709).
- Home Field Advantage: The Bluejays have started to learn how to take advantage of their spacious new home, in their 17 games at TDAPO this season, the Jays at hitting .311 (171-of-549).
- No Fly Zone: In 102 games at TDAPO only 47 balls have left the yard. There has never been a walk-off home run, nor back-to-back blasts.
- Staehely Skies: In 40 games in TDAPO over the past two season, Creighton has just two long balls. Both courtesy of senior Alex Staehely on March 31, 2012 & April 19, 2013.
- Don't Call it a Comeback: Teams are a combined 86-2 when leading after eight innings. Creighton is 32-0 at TDAPO when leading after eight. The Jays also own both victories when trailing after eight, including a 3-2 (11) win over Rutgers on April 27.
- Free Baseball for the Fans: Creighton is 5-1 in extra-inning games at TDAPO.
Young Guns Growing Up
Freshman Matt Warren recording the longest midweek outing under Servais is an example of how the Jays young pitchers have started to blossom this season. Creighton's seven freshmen have combined to record 12 wins in 2013. In the last four seasons, Bluejay freshmen have combined for 11 wins.
Freshman Wins Under Servais
2013: 12
2012: 0
2011: 0
2010: 5
2009: 6
2008: 4
2007: 6
2006: 2
2005: 1
2004: 2
Lucansky Delivers In a Pinch
When sophomore Landon Lucansky walked to the plate on Saturday in a 1-0 game at Wichita, Creighton was 1-for-34 (.029) in pinch hitting situations. Bucking the trend, Lucansky stroked a single to third to drive in the eventual game-winning run for the Jays.
What a Difference a Year Makes
Last season the Jays closed MVC play with a 6-14 record, entering the MVC Tournament as the eight seed. Creighton finished 2012 with a 28-30 record, including a spirited run into the NCAA Tournament. This year the Jays have already equaled the 28-win mark and are assured no worse than a four seed when the MVC Tournament begins next week.
Unchartered Territory
Freshman Matt Warren's 7.2 inning performance on Tuesday, May 8th was the longest midweek outing by a starter since head coach Ed Servais took over the Creighton program in 2004.


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The Tale of Genji: A Sequel, Volume 59
Genji monogatari (Tale of Genji) is often considered the first great novel in world literature. The author of the work, Murasaki Shibuku, was born around 978 and spent most of her life at or near the imperial court in Kyoto. After a brief marriage to an older man, she entered the service of Empress Akiko (or Shōshi) around 1005 as a lady-in-waiting. The novel consists of 54 books or chapters that recount the life and romances of Prince Genji, the young, handsome, and talented son of an emperor. The novel ...


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Published April 2007. Revised July 2014.
Provides scientific information about the disease of drug addiction, including the many harmful consequences of drug abuse and the basic approaches that have been developed to prevent and treat the disease.
En Español
Revised November 2012.
Provides an overview of drug abuse and addiction, including what happens in the brain during drug abuse, why some people become addicted and others don't, and the importance of prevention.
En Español
Published July 2011.
Presents current knowledge on a variety of addiction issues, including nicotine's affects on brain function; inhalant abuse; genetically-based research and treatment; maternal tobacco use and its effects on children; and a behavior game for young children.
Published December 2010.
Reports on the cognitive effects of addiction, potential genetic influences, strategies for training counselors, cost evaluation of evidence-based treatments, and a trial underway on brief strategic family therapy.
Published January 2000. Revised March 2010.
Equips teachers and students in grades 9 through 12 with interactive curriculum on the neurobiology of the brain as a result of drug abuse and addiction.
Published April 2009.
Features recent research on drug abuse and criminal justice, including interventions to promote successful re-entry, nutrition issues for HIV-infected drug abusers, and recovery-oriented systems of care.
Published July 2008.
Explores the science behind such questions as what is addiction, why do people abuse drugs, and how does drug use change the brain, as well as research-based information about prevention, treatment, relapse, and HIV/AIDS.
Revised January 2007.
The fifth in a 5-part series, summarizes the science behind drug abuse and addiction, reviews the harmful consequences of drug use, and poses the question of whether it is worth the risk.
Revised January 2007.
The fourth in a 5-part series, explores the biology behind ecstasy use in the brain and discusses both short- and long-term effects of its use.
Revised January 2007.
The third in a 5-part series, reviews the science behind drug abuse and addiction and introduces the topics of prevention and treatment.
Call 1-877-643-2644 or:


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The first residents of the new town of Mountain House northwest of Tracy are scheduled to begin moving in sometime in June.
Assemblywoman Barbara Matthews and community volunteer Betty Galli have been named "Women of Distinction" by Soroptimist International of Tracy.
Kathy Teixeira is retiring as principal of Hawkins School in the Jefferson Elementary School District, ending a 38-year career in education.
Werl Owen, a former Southern Pacific employee who was a jeweler for many years, has died at the age of 91.
Several thousand Tracy area residents took part in the 2003 Relay for Life at the Tracy High football stadium.
West High's baseball team defeated Beyer of Modesto 3-1 in the first round of the Sac-Joaquin Section playoffs.
The city of Tracy is in the process of purchasing Delta-Mendota Canal water allocations from the Banta Carbona and Westside irrigation districts.
25 years ago — 1988
South School Principal Lanvin Peets in retiring, ending 24 years as a school principal in Tracy schools.
Clifford and Onalee Koster outlined the history of San Joaquin City southeast of Tracy to members of the West Side Pioneer Association.
Marilyn Church is retiring after 26 years as a Tracy teacher.
Victoria Royster of Tracy is challenging incumbent San Joaquin County Supervisor Evelyn Costa, also of Tracy, in the June primary election.
Tracy High's Mike Lewis tied a school record in the 100-meter dash with a winning time of 10.74 seconds in subsection track and field competition at Modesto.
The campaign to finance construction of a Tracy War Memorial was kicked off at a breakfast held in the Tracy Inn Gold Room. John Gomes chaired the event.
50 years ago — 1963
James R. French, superintendent of Tracy Public School for the past year, has been given a four-year extension of his employment contract and a $1,000 raise to $16,000 per year.
Members of the Golden Anchor Boat Club ferried Tracy community leaders through the Delta waterways to Antioch and back again.
Delphia Freeman is the new president of the Tracy High Girls Block T Society.
True to his nickname, Duane "Carp" Garrison, owner of Garfree Sport Shop, landed a 20-pound carp in the San Joaquin River near Mossdale.
Young Jim Meservy captured first place in the annual marbles tournament sponsored by the Tracy District Recreation Commission.
Former Tracy High Bulldog center Jack "Ingo" Tillotson is the only Tracy player selected to play for the South team in the Elks Valley All-Star Football Game in Lodi.
75 years ago — 1938
As temperatures shot up sharply, the Tracy Plunge was opened for the 1938 season, providing some relief to local residents.
Tracy students receiving Bachelor of Arts degrees at University of California, Berkeley, are Waldo Coffman, Pete Obad, Marjorie Canale, Marjorie Larsen and Evelyn Ohm.
Federal Works Project Administration funds have been made available for the completion of piping the West Side Irrigation District low-line canal through Tracy.
100 years ago — 1913
Operators at bars at the Terminal Grill and Hotel Western have been charged with illegal gambling. They are accused of running card and dice games on a percentage basis.
W.H. Davis, a civil engineer, is gathering data in the rural area in preparation of a report on the feasibility of constructing an irrigation system around Tracy.
— Tracy Press archives


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The BMC Racing Team is pleased to have had its ProTeam status renewed for the 2012 season by the International Cycling Union (UCI), President/General Manager Jim Ochowicz said Wednesday.
Top Five Team In 2011
The U.S-registered BMC Racing Team met and complied with the UCI's ethical, financial, administrative and sporting criteria to earn its license renewal. It completed its first season as a ProTeam as the No. 5-ranked team in the UCI WorldTour rankings, highlighted by Cadel Evans's Tour de France victory. Evans finished the season as the No. 2 rider in the world rankings. "Cadel's victory at the Tour de France and the team's consistent performance throughout the year, both on and off the race course, is the true confirmation for this selection," Ochowicz said. "We look forward to the 2012 season with renewed enthusiasm and pride in our team of riders and staff." The BMC Racing Team will begin its 2012 season at the Santos Tour Down Under in mid-January.


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Main Content
It's time for a new wallet - your old one is just falling to pieces. Give that one a rest and pick up the Aggrolite tri-fold wallet from Rip Curl! It features a rubberized brand graphic applique on the outside as well as a zippered coin pocket. The inside features a mesh ID slot, a key ring, a zippered cash compartment and six card slots, so everything will be within your reach. The vibrant contrast colors are a fresh new way to express your individuality and style!
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Special event items are produced by manufacturers only after the outcome of a game or event. These are advanced sale items and will ship immediately after they are received in our warehouse.
Manufacturer direct items are shipped directly from the manufacturer. These items are not available for international or expedited shipping.
Customized items can be personalized with options such as your name, your favorite number, and/or designs. Some options may be limited by league rules.


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Underwear & Base Layer
Save big on Underwear at Sportsman's Guide. Every guy could use a couple new pairs of Boxers or Briefs in their life; but we have more to offer like Thermals, Long Underwear, Compression Shorts, Scent Proof Base Layers, Long Johns, and more.
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Published by TREVA, Developed by Independent Arts
Genres: Simulation (1 players)
US release date: Dec 12th, 2013 | EU release date: -
Run the world's greatest stud farm in 3D!
Renovate the stables, riding arena and guesthouse, take loving care of your horses and breed cute foals. Ride at full gallop in exciting cross-country races and master the most amazing jumps.
Life with Horses 3D has no review on Wii's World.
No posts yet for this game. Posts make me happy.
Super Smash Bros. Overload
8 player smash, new game modes, stage builder, and the return of Mewtwo
Psyscrolr Prepares To Imbue The Wii U eShop With Psychic Platforming
Mind Bending
Amazon Reveals Unannounced Modes for Wii U Version of Smash Bros.
Another day, Another Smash Bros. leak
Fifth Annual NES Marathon scheduled for November 8th
More than 750 Games, 2 friends, and 1 great cause
Game Freak Exploring Amiibo Functionality
Gotta buy 'em all
Donkey Kong Country Returns to Virtual Console!
Only in Europe...
Nexis Games Releases New UCraft Information
Digging through the details
October CoroCoro Shows new details and Mega Pokemon for Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire
Bees, and birds, and dragons. Oh my!
GameCube Controller Confusion
You got my hopes up and then dashed them expertly, sir.
Fifteen "Nindies" Announced for IndieCade 2014
A glimpse into the future
Horse Vet 3D
Released on September 18th, 2014
Secret Empires of the Ancient World
Released on September 18th, 2014
The Keep
Released on September 11th, 2014
Hideaways: Foggy Valley
Released on September 11th, 2014
Top Model 3D
Released on September 11th, 2014
ShinyShovel said:
I find the 8 player smash to be the most exciting aspect of the upcoming game! ... Super Smash Bros. Overload
Iron Guy said:
Finaly ... Smash Bros 3DS Demo Now Available in the West
Iron Guy said:
Im happy ... LostWinds 2 footage
Iron Guy said:
I guess there will always be little bugs like this to iron out when a new system launches. ... LostWinds fix coming for Wii U
Zachary Wickwire said:
That's a lot to take in. I'm really looking forward to this, only about a month left to wait. ... Super Smash Bros. Overload
Wii's World is not officially affiliated with Nintendo! (but they wish we were).