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Thursday, February 15, 2007
How to Write a Book Proposal
Apparently so.
The art of writing a nonfiction book proposal is sort of like cooking lasagna. There are a thousand ways of making it, everyone has their own recipe, but most every lasagna will have a few basic ingredients and chances are it's going to taste good in the end. The below recipe, if you will, applies to just about every kind of nonfiction, from history to self-help to narrative nonfiction.
Also, people often ask if they need to write the whole nonfiction book before they query an agent. Not so! Or at least not usually so. An agent can often sell nonfiction projects on proposal, meaning you write the proposal first, then sell the project, then write the book. It mostly depends on the quality of the idea and its marketability, your platform, and your writing ability. There are definitely exceptions to this -- it really depends on the project, and sometimes it pays to write the whole thing, especially memoir. Think of a memoir like a novel. You may have to write the whole thing.
So without further ADO (thanks everyone), here are the basic sections of a nonfiction book proposal.
The overview is unlike anything you'll ever write. It's not quite a synopsis, it's not quite a sample chapter, it's not quite catalog copy, it's not even quite, uh, an overview. Its really the distillation of the book you're going to write. You're getting across the meat of the story that you are writing about. You're telling the story/narrative/subject in brief. You're telling the agent/editor what the book is going to be about, what it will be like and who's going to read it. It's really a sales pitch.
So to write the overview, pretend you're a broke screenwriter pitching a project to a big time Hollywood producer. You're telling the gist of the story, you're selling him on how America absolutely needs a movie about the number 23, baby! You want the producer at the end to have an idea of what the book is about so he'll scratch his chin and say, "Interesting.... Tell me more about this number 23."
A good overview will give the agent/editor a great sense of the subject, the scope, the heart, and the need for the book. It will get them excited about the project.
I know all of this is really vague, and that's because the approaches to the overview vary a whole lot depending on the project, and it's difficult for me to say that the overview is one thing or another. You have some room for creativity here, so just focus on summarizing and pitching your project while making it sound as appealing and necessary as possible.
Competing Titles/Market Analysis
This is the part where you discuss the other books that are out there as a way of convincing an agent/editor that there is a pressing need for your book. Counterintuitive, I know. The market analysis should not be along the lines of, "275,000,000 Americans drink milk, therefore my book about milk will sell 275,000,000 copies," but it should really address the market for the book and who your potential reader will be.
Also, in this section you should discuss other books that have been published on your subject. If they're close enough to yours you might list them and address them individually, assessing how each one differs from yours. This is not the time to Swift Boat other authors, but you should clearly differentiate your project from the other books that have already been published on the subject. It's not enough to try to convince an agent/editor that your book is like someone else's only better -- you have to find a genuine unexplored niche in the marketplace.
Platform platform platform. This is the part where you convince the agent/editor that you are the best person in the entire world to be writing the book. It's probably best not to lie in this section.
Outline/List of Chapters
Sometimes people include an outline or a list of chapters to give a sense of the scope of the project. Personally I feel like this part is a little overrated for something like narrative nonfiction because the finished product is probably going to change, but this section is very important for any sort of self-helpish or businessish proposal since you'll already have a pretty good idea of where the project is going and can summarize it here.
Sample Chapter(s) (1-3)
Other than perhaps the overview, the sample chapter(s) is(are) the most important part of the proposal. Some editors I know just get a gist of the overview and then turn straight to the sample chapters to see a sample of the author's writing. So work very, very hard on these chapters to make them as good as possible.
Other things that you might consider throwing in I mean including are copies of newspaper/magazine articles you wrote that apply to the subject (if the book is arising out of a published article), reviews of past nonfiction books you've published (not self-published), and anything else that will help convince the agent/editor that you're super-awesome.
And that's pretty much it! Easy as lasagna.
91 comments:
- Jen said...
I knew there was a reason I wrote fiction.
Well, other than all that pesky research and such.
- February 15, 2007 at 4:19 PM
- Simon Haynes said...
I agree with Jen. With non-fic it seems that the ability to write the book comes a distant third to the author's marketability and platform.
With fiction it's mostly about the book, and as a nobody I couldn't be happier with that situation.
- February 15, 2007 at 8:34 PM
Nathan, thanks again for your delightful blog! How hard and fast a rule is it that memoirs always have to be finished? An agent recently requested my proposal for a book that was previously agented, but then we were calling it more of a "how-to" of sorts. Now, I'm calling it a memoir, but it will still have essays on the subject matter in general. A little of both, I guess. I'm hoping the agent will be able to sell the proposal as it is, since it's not your typical memoir, and is quite unusual. What do you think? thanks, G.R.
- February 15, 2007 at 10:20 PM
- Nathan Bransford said...
Green Ray,
It's tough to say without seeing the proposal itself (it's part how-to part memoir part essay collection?), but I'd say in general if it's not a very clearly marketable high concept idea you're probably going to have to write the whole thing. You may find an agent with a proposal, but to find a publisher chances are you'll have to write the whole thing. But again, without seeing the proposal I'm not positive.
- February 15, 2007 at 10:43 PM
Thanks, Nathan. You're fast! I guess I'll have to wait and see what the agent says. I've done so much work on my novels without yet selling them, so it would be great to get paid before finishing this one! Maybe if we remove the word "memoir," as my new subtitle is very alluring, but I don't want to reveal it here. Thanks again.
- February 15, 2007 at 10:52 PM
- gm said...
Hi Nathan,
Thanks for this informative post!
Can you tell me how much of these rules apply to humorous non-fiction, say of the kind written by Michael Moore and spoofs like 'I moved your cheese!'?
For humorous non-fiction, would it make more sense to write the book first? Would be nice to get your thoughts on this. Thanks!
- February 15, 2007 at 11:35 PM
- Roxan said...
This information will come in handy for me. My sister has been harping on me to write a book about our family. Then again, the story is so weird it might work better as fiction.
- February 16, 2007 at 9:19 AM
- Nathan Bransford said...
For humorous nonfiction, especially debut humorous nonfiction, it's probably best to treat like a memoir and write the whole thing. But like everything else, it depends a lot on the project.
- February 16, 2007 at 11:19 AM
- Susan Gunelius said...
I'm printing this out and using it as a reference ASAP. I'm writing my proposal now for my copywriting book that I asked you about in the AbsoluteWrite.com forum.
Your manuscript formatting post will also be so helpful. Every book I buy tells me something different, so it's nice to have an agent give his perspective. Thank you.
By the way, your blog is fantastic! I just started my own web site, which includes a blog, based on your recommendations to establish a web presence. It's been a lot of fun putting it together, and I can't wait to build it into a useful tool.
- February 16, 2007 at 2:33 PM
- Nathan Bransford said...
Thanks so much, Susan! Good luck with the proposal!
- February 16, 2007 at 2:43 PM
I assume that platform is all about the author's ability to promote the book. Since commercial publishers are in business to make money, why isn't there the same emphasis on platform for fiction and memoirs? Wouldn't a novel by George Bush, even if it's awful, be likely to sell better than a novel by George Nobody?
- February 16, 2007 at 7:33 PM
- Simon Haynes said...
Non-fic = information in book form. If people want that info, you have a sale. (Even if the info is 'what Ms Hilton keeps in her handbag'.) You can advertise to the intended audience and many will buy.
Fiction = entertainment. There are untold millions of novels out there, so why do people need yours? They usually don't, until other people they know and trust tell them how good it is. With fiction, advertising can only get the ball rolling - in the end, it's all about the book.
- February 17, 2007 at 7:27 PM
- JHK said...
Hi Nathan. I came across your blog while searching literary agents on a lazy Sunday afternoon. Your site has been the most informative, enjoyable and honest that I have found so far. Thank you for sharing so much helpful information.
- February 18, 2007 at 4:12 PM
- Dr. Hack said...
Guidelines? Who needs guidelines. Agents love it better when you show how creative you are by inventing new submission methods/combinations that they've never heard of.
- February 19, 2007 at 3:23 PM
- Michael said...
Hi Nathan,
When writing a non-fiction book proposal,under the outline/list chapters section, should I include an outline of a preface or just the chapters?
Thanks for your help
- August 15, 2007 at 7:25 PM
- Nathan Bransford said...
Yes, if it's relevant to what is to come later, you might give a brief sketch of your preface as well.
- August 15, 2007 at 8:14 PM
Nathan how can you tell what to consider a book that although it is based on real life situations and contains many elements of self-reflection and self help is put together as in a story using fictional charaters? The information offered is real but the characters are fictional and represent archetypes found within each person (such as Herne, the Hermit, etc.)
- October 10, 2007 at 10:55 AM
- Cara Coslow said...
I must agree with anonymous. You really have an incredibly blog. It's fun, engaging, but incredibly thorough and informative.
- November 6, 2007 at 7:29 PM
- CHRIS PASH said...
My View:
Start with the story.
This one got me a good response: many requests for the full manuscript. And I contract arrived overnight from a publisher
It's the 1970s.
A group of hippies climb into rubber boats and head out to sea to face explosive head harpoons. They have whales to save. And they have faith.
The whalers have steel ships, spotter aircraft, sonar, radar and working radios. They have high paying jobs. And they have the law on their side.
- November 11, 2007 at 11:59 PM
- camie jo said...
So my question is, is it ever refreshing to get a submission from someone who has absolutely no clue as to how this whole process works, and so submits something unlike anything you recommend here? I mean, don't all these monochromatic electronic emails get boring, or would anything else be so unprofessional and banal that you would scoff aloud upon opening? Just wondering as someone who has NO idea how this whole process works and hoping that beginner's ignorance can somehow come across as innocent and cute instead of trite and uninformed (or do I need to do alot more reading???).
- December 22, 2007 at 4:50 AM
- Nathan Bransford said...
camie jo-
No, not really. Someone who doesn't know what they're doing comes across as someone who hasn't done their research.
- December 22, 2007 at 8:14 AM
- camie jo said...
I figured as much. Good thing I didn't submit my entire proposal in rhyme...
And thanks for the quick response.
- December 22, 2007 at 1:34 PM
- Cam said...
New post on an older thread here. Perhaps this is a stupid question, but should a writer have the n/f proposal ready-to-go before querying the agent?
- March 11, 2008 at 5:35 PM
- Nathan Bransford said...
- March 11, 2008 at 5:50 PM
So my question is, is it ever refreshing to get a submission from someone who has absolutely no clue as to how this whole process works, and so submits something unlike anything you recommend here? I mean, don't all these monochromatic electronic emails get boring, or would anything else be so unprofessional and banal that you would scoff aloud upon opening?
Well you have been told Camie Jo. A Sense of humour and self depreciation is not something that the publishing industry indulges in en masse. They would have to come out of the own rears for that. Touche.
- March 12, 2008 at 11:11 AM
- katherine said...
I know you get a lot of these, but is my overview too long?
"I wish my eyes had not been opened" are the words from a hymn written by Carol Etzler. "To see all of the cruel things that we do to God's children." These words are echoed by all of the whistle blowers who dared to take on the American political machine. I wish MY eyes had not been opened because I was forced to do something! My life as a whistle blower began in a beautiful, gracious and picturesque historic town which melds the forces of good and evil like the broken images of a kaleidoscope. When my vision cleared, the world I knew would be forever changed.
A young black girl from a modest broken home was an unlikely candidate for the second most powerful position in a southern and traditional city that was the scene of a race riot only a hundred years earlier that destroyed the lives of many successful blacks. But doting grandparents, a solid Roman Catholic upbringing, and a strong and loving mother provided the incubator that created a strong, independent, compassionate, and outspoken woman who refused to turn a blind eye to evil and injustice. After earning a college education and escaping two broken marriages, I returned to my roots with plans to help the folks in my hometown of Wilmington, North Carolina experience the American dreams of peace, prosperity, and happiness.
But whistle blowers are never prepared for the ramifications of going public with government secrets, political corruption, police brutality, and most of all, stories of pedophiles in three-piece suits and priestly garb. Sadly, all of the events in the book were exposed and reported in the media with only tepid coverage.
Much has been written on all of those subjects, but "Wish" is the first book that issues a chronology of events of the personal strife suffered by a whistle blower, stories of the lives of other whistle blowers, and the governmental agencies quietly empowered to wreak havoc on the lives of people whose revelations could mean jail time and the end to many prominent public careers.
"Wish" is two hundred spellbinding pages that reveal the rise and fall of the author and many others who dared to go public .The story is riveting as it replays briefly the author's rags to riches story and the last fourteen tumultuous years that resulted in a return to "rags." The book is based on over thirty years in the political arena from the campaign chairman of a hotly contested US Senate race to twelve years as the Mayor Pro Tem in Wilmington, North Carolina.
My life reminds me of the film, Enemy of the State, which is a film that was released in 1998 starring the actor Will Smith. Billed as a thriller, it is the story of a young successful lawyer whose life was thrust into turmoil when he stumbled upon information that could implicate some high-level government officials. The story could have been ripped from the pages of the author's life. I wandered blindly into a system plagued with political corruption, police misconduct, and child sexual abuse. I watched in dismay as Council members misused millions of dollars of federal block grant money with schemes that would make Jesse James blush. I was horrified when I learned of the problems plaguing the police department. With six chiefs in eight years, the department was awash with allegations of police brutality, sexual misconduct, rape, drug abuse and cover-ups. I Wish That My Eyes Had Not Been Opened describes briefly my life before politics and details my journey and survival in a world of unspeakable evils.
Wilmington, North Carolina is the personification of gracious living, southern hospitality, gentility, and charm. It stands like a grandiose sovereignty on the banks of the Cape Fear River and is recognized as the "City of a million azaleas" and the Hollywood of the East. Wilmington is the home to Screen Gems Studio and the fastest growing university in the South. It is the vacation destination of millions who come to bask in the sun on the dazzling shores of the Atlantic Ocean and to take a trip back in time as they stroll the brick streets of the old historic district beautifully restored to resemble America's Colonial Era. Wilmington reigns as the economic and cultural heart of southeastern North Carolina.
I am proud to say that my roots in this splendid city were planted two hundred and fifty years ago... Aside from my African American lineage, my mixed heritage encompasses all of the cultural and racial complexities of the "Old South." Fair skin, auburn hair, and hazel eyes pay homage to my Native American great grandmother, my English great-great grandfathers, and one whose descendants served in the North Carolina Senate beginning in the 1800 and whose palatial home is now an historic landmark in Wilmington. The other was a wealthy landowner whose name still adorns the major thoroughfare to the North Carolina State Port in Wilmington. The cultural complexity of my genealogy includes a Jewish great great grandfather from a Muslim state. The history of this city flows through my veins as surely as the blood of my ancestors who lived and died there...
Like my ancestors before me, I blossomed in Wilmington. As a young businesswoman, I was intricately involved in the community, serving on many boards and commissions that included state appointments, Chairman of the New Hanover County Human Relations Commission, Second Vice President of the Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce, Board of Trustees of the University of North Carolina Public Television, Board of Trustees of the University of North Carolina at Wilmington .She entertained dignitaries and celebrities in her home including the Governor, the Lieutenant Governor, State Senators, and Congressmen. A successful business was established that was nationally recognized in USA Today and Good Housekeeping. I was also a guest on Good Morning America, the Sally Jesse Raphael Show, and the Faith Daniels Show. And like a "Pop Princess" with a disastrous marriage, I graced the pages of Star Magazine. With a background as a speech and theater teacher, I traveled the country speaking as an advocate for women's issues and small businesses. The most extraordinary opportunities occurred when I gave the keynote address at the US Small Business Administration's National Convention in Washington, DC and filmed the SBA's national public service announcement.
After years of volunteering in the community, I fill an unexpired term on the Wilmington City Council and was re-elected three times in at-large elections by the citizens of the City and elected Mayor Pro Tem five times by my fellow council members spanning a decade. I often remarked, "I am home."
But even in the "Garden of Eden," knowledge becomes a burden. Wilmington is also home to the 2nd highest crime rate in the state of North Carolina and remains on the FBI's list of high crime areas. Drugs flow freely as the Sheriff's Department and the Police Department squabble over territory. Wilmington is the home to a Sheriff that traveled to Florida to confiscate drug money that he said belonged to a local attorney who defended the drug dealer. The Sheriff's office also has the distinction of four deaths in four years, including an eighteen- year old college student who was shot through his wooden front door as a seven-member swat team went to question him about the theft of a play station. And among the six police chiefs hired in the last eight years at the police department, three were ineffective as they were mired in the three B's: Boys, Babes, and Booze. One chief, Bob Wadman, was the subject of a book written by former Nebraska state senator, John W. DeCamp, entitled "The FranklinCover-Up which accuses the chief of numerous crimes against children. During Mr. Wadman's tenure chaos reigned supreme amid allegations of intimidation, harassment, death threats, and sexual exploitation that sparked the birth of a very perverted police underground newspaper.
The latest departing chief left a memo with the following quotes: "I would describe the PD current status as coming apart at the seams," and referring to a fellow officer, "I would recommend he be moved to professional standards for his own protection." The officer who needed protection was jokingly referred to as "Mr.Clean."
As a councilmember for fourteen years, I fought the system of corruption, racism, lawlessness, police brutality, pedophilia, and illegal drug traffic and in frustration, wrote and self-published a book entitled, Under Oath: Memoirs of an Honest Politician, where I "spilled the beans."
But I was not prepared for the events that followed the publishing of the book. I would soon learn that these criminals would resort to any means necessary to remain anonymous, including, harassment, intimidation, and character assassination and they were connected from the Court House to the White House. They destroyed anyone who dared to challenge them. I dared!
I have felt the sting of pain, grief, disappointments, racism, poverty and hunger; but nothing in life prepared me for the fourteen years that I served on the City Council in Wilmington, North Carolina. "I Wish My Eyes Had Not Been Opened." There was no way to fathom what would lie ahead and how often her faith would be challenged. "Wish" offers a view of the life of a government whistle blower who has lived fourteen years in the dark and dangerous world of political corruption, pedophiles, and police brutality stalked by a government agency that few in the public are aware. Years of research produce a vivid profile of the operations of this agency also referred to by journalist, Bill Moyers, as the "secret government."
Readers will enjoy a beautiful and descriptive story of a young girl growing up in rural North Carolina. They will be intrigued, fascinated and outraged at the stories of corruption and misuse of the millions of tax dollars used to stalk, harass, and intimidate government whistle blowers.
- March 27, 2008 at 10:13 AM
- katherine said...
Sorry about error. Her faith should read my faith.
- March 27, 2008 at 12:10 PM
Hi Nathan-
Are you an agent who wants sample chapters and a table of contents with the query for nonfiction up front all at once? Or do you only want the query part of the proposal first?
- April 22, 2008 at 5:41 PM
- Julie said...
Hi Nathan,
Do you have advice on how to approach putting together a book proposal for narrative nonfiction based on *upcoming* travels?
I'm quitting my 9-5 and heading to New Zealand for a year to hitchhike my way around both islands. I leave in Sept - and plan on submitting a book proposal before my departure. For obvious reasons, other than a chapter on Pre-Departure, there isn't much more I can write.
Is there a different approach for travelogues?
Julie Gauthier
- June 27, 2008 at 9:53 PM
- msfriendly said...
Nathan, thank you for taking the time to share this information with the public. I have been struggling with the creation of a non-fiction proposal for the past month...I'm not quite sure what if I'm writing will be what agents are looking for. Will these guidelines also apply to blogs- turned-memoir?
Thank you!
- June 30, 2008 at 12:12 PM
- Nathan Bransford said...
Upcoming travels is a challenge because editors are often reluctant to commit to a project when the events haven't happened yet, particularly when the author is unknown. But I would try to write as much sample material as you can if you do want to try it.
The rules for memoir are more like the rules for novels. There are exceptions, but usually the whole thing needs to be written.
- June 30, 2008 at 3:29 PM
- msfriendly said...
Thank you for the information, and I do apologize for the error in my prior post!
Ms. Friendly
- June 30, 2008 at 11:04 PM
- aileen said...
Great blog! One thing I am never sure about is whether or not to send the book proposal agents ask for when you have already written the book (new-age/eastern/philosophy)?
Any ideas on that?
- July 8, 2008 at 4:00 PM
- tony said...
Nathan, your blog is fantastic. The best around.
You mention several times that "memoirs are like novels" -- does that mean not to write a proposal and stick with just the manuscript? I've completed and polished the manuscript for my memoir (coming of age in China), and now two of the agents I've queried are asking for a proposal, which I haven't put together. I thought proposals were for 'prescriptive' nonfiction. I do have a 4-page synopsis and (obviously) the completed manuscript. Is it worth my time to put together a proposal now, too?
- July 9, 2008 at 9:04 PM
- Marianne Thomas said...
This post is so helpful; thanks for sharing your experience with us writing folk.
- October 22, 2008 at 10:05 PM
- WindBlowerTM said...
Dear Nathan
Thank you so much for posting these advices, they are truly helpful.
Thank You!
- November 27, 2008 at 1:14 PM
- Angel said...
Thanks so much for info-there is little 'decent stuff' on the web about non fiction proposals.
I am a rookie writer and have found your blog several times over recent weeks. It really is most informative and you are very good to give your time and advice as freely as you do.
will no doubt see you again
warm wishes
- November 28, 2008 at 11:51 AM
Nathan, thank you so much for all you do to help us neophytes. I have completed my first novel about a young, Native American couple who wish to leave the Meskwaki Settlement in Iowa and assimilate into the white man's world of the 1930's. It now seems to me that one of the most important things in finding an agent is to find one who looks for work within ones particular genre. The scope of my genre is rather unique and most agents are not willing to even take a look. Am I correct in this observation?
Thanks for your opinion.
- December 10, 2008 at 5:05 PM
- R.E. Fitzgerald said...
Thank you for this blog. Am I correct to understand that a non-fiction book proposal can be 30 pages? How should it be bound? Should it include a table of contents or chapter overview? I've put my proposal into a blog. (www.firstlinemanagers.com) But, after reading your blog I assume this idea of sending a link to agents is not a good one, true?
-R.E. Fitzgerald
- December 17, 2008 at 7:43 PM
What a great Blog. Thank you for doing it.
You mention stating the reason I am the best person to write the book. What if I have no background in the subject? I am in advertising sales but I occasionally find subjects that I find fascinating and end up researching them to death just because of my curiosity. Often I feel I am the only person I know that is so well informed. However, does that make me an expert? I am currently researching Americans that retire overseas (because of a family member's intent to do so) I have learned a great deal about the subject and have more books on order to further my knowledge. But as I said I'm in advertising so there isn't a natural background there. Any suggestions?
- March 4, 2009 at 6:08 PM
- Kenny Celican said...
Not sure if you'll have a useful answer or not, but based on past experience, the answer will be either informative, amusing, or both, so here goes:
How would a proposal for a textbook differ from that of narrative non-fiction? I've been asked to assist with the writing and submission on one, and mostly that means I'm doing the research.
Common sense tells me that the Biography / Credentials might have more impact on a textbook, but common sense isn't always.
Any advice?
- April 8, 2009 at 1:46 PM
- Richard said...
You have a great blog.
I appreciate this entry but entries about non-fiction are rare.
So, if you don't mind, could you recommend blogs that are nearly as good as yours but focus more broadly on non-fiction?
Thanks a bunch,
- April 14, 2009 at 3:40 AM
I want to question one (or several) of your claims. I have an agent for a serious non-fiction book. She has a history of sales of real books, so I'm reasonably confident that she knows what she's doing. The proposal is out with editors right now. To acquire the agent, I submitted sample chapters, as well as a full proposal of the sort you describe. After that, though, we completely rewrote the proposal. Stem to stern. We scrapped the sample chapters. We scrapped the market analysis. We just went with an overview, an explanation of my platform, and descriptive chapter outlines. Is my agent insane or does this sometimes also work?
- April 16, 2009 at 1:58 AM
- Nathan Bransford said...
dr. bingo-
I would characterize that as atypical, but what's needed really depends on the particular project. Proposals vary a lot.
- April 16, 2009 at 10:00 AM
- The Writer said...
Hi - does this cover comical travelogues? (The Bill Bryson / Stephen Clarke type of book? )
I'm editing mine again ... I was doodling on Accent Press' web and she asked to read 3 chaps plus synopsis but sadly it didn't fit in with her titles. But she recommended Summersdale. But I want to get it professionally read first - Hilary Johnson Advisory Service - then submit. Am also sorting a web out.
Lesley (from Old Blighty): 0 )
- April 29, 2009 at 8:27 AM
Great blog. Questions, if you have time: I've written and had published two non-fiction books, both through non-agent approaches. While my first book was academic, my second book would probably be considered ... medium market ($-wise). This publisher and I have talked about doing more books. As I'd like to break into the top market, I'll need an agent, but one thing I never understood was whether the agent would now expect to get involved in the relationship I already have with my existing publisher? Or do they only get involved in the mss I send them? My fear in getting an agent is that it will disturb my good working relationship with my current publisher, who gave me above average royalties, and has scheduled ebook/audiobook editions for my first book (which I appreciate), and probably wants to do more books with me.
Also, since I am a (non-famous) published non-fiction author, how important is the pre-completed sample chapters when I contact an agent? My first book req'd a lot, my second req'd 2 chapters, and as I mentioned I am looking at a 3rd book with the same publisher who published the second, and they only want a few pages pre-contract. So, does being published matter? Or am I sorta starting all over again when I get an agent?
- May 29, 2009 at 5:32 AM
- Corine St.Ofle said...
Hello kind sir,
First, of course, I would like to thank you for the blog. Everyone else seems to do so, and it would be rude of me not to.
My question is the following:
Can narrative non-fiction ever be pitched in the same manner as fiction (that is to say, without the "overview)?
Would you have any insight as to how to submit a story that is fiction-like in content, much like a "Running with Scissors", yet different from a memoir in the sense that it recounts a much shorter period than that which would be expected in that genre?
Thank you for your consideration, and I hope you are enjoying your time at the Cheneys. If Dick suggests a stroll in the woods, may I recommend that you politely feign a headache or temporary paralysis?
- May 31, 2009 at 1:15 AM
- MH said...
I included sample marketing & PR plan as well :)
- June 4, 2009 at 8:47 PM
- Vodka Mom said...
I have been searching for information like THIS for a week.
thank you...
and to katherine up there? yes.
- July 9, 2009 at 12:46 PM
- JaneBoHa said...
Nathan, I don't know if I'm within the topic of this particular post but I'll send this out and let you be the judge. I'm writing a book from my dog's point of view - and it's a true story (started out as a blog): The book was initially intended to be a children's book, to guide children in caring for an injured animal (and as such had the blessing and support of the animal medical center), though as written (and with many photos to illustrate)it also had a broader appeal. As I experienced my dog's healing and continued to write, I then discovered, when talking to a child psychologist, that the book was really like a fable, as are stories with animals, with a life lesson, not just one life lesson but several. I then found one "proposal" suggestion that had us define the main characters, the conflict of each, how the conflict was resolved, etc. The main characters are the dog, and the two adults. While it's thought-provoking to think of my book from this point of view, the adult conflicts are not appropriate to include in a children's book, and certainly the dog doesn't know much about them! Now I understand that children's books have fewer pages and a lesser word-count than my book, which is too short for an adult book. But the adult books don't want to include the number of photographs that we have, which are important because they illustrate the process of healing from injury to renewal. Besides: Who ever heard of a book about (or by) a dog without cute photos?
Seems like the publishing world is organized into little categories, unless you're a BIG name and can operate beyond categories.
So now I don't know which direction to go in because it's about these genres. Which means also that I'm "stuck" at the "proposal" level. We're part children's, part mature, part narrative non-fiction, part "how to", definitely very funny, with a lot of photos!
What to do? Or who to turn to?
- August 9, 2009 at 1:08 AM
- LLehrner said...
I just came across your blog while searching for, "how to write a non-fiction proposal," and it is very helpful. As a new author I feel as if agents are trying to scare me out of submitting because my credentials lack, but your blog is friendly and quite encouraging. I appreciate you taking the time to answer questions as the writing world can be confusing. I really love the blog and the warm feeling it gives off! Thanks!
- August 19, 2009 at 1:17 PM
Hi Nathan,
I'm curious. There's something I can't figure out. You are far and away the most helpful purveyor of advice for new authors that I've found, but even you do not have a listing on how to write a fiction book proposal. Book proposals are apparently for nonfiction. But last year trying to sell my novel at a writers' conference I had an agent AND a publisher ask for a proposal. I couldn't find out what on earth a fiction proposal should look like and when I asked them they weren't helpful. (As if they have time to give that kind of instructions! Agents aren't there to give stupid beginners instructions! Oh wait...) I finally threw something together loosley based on nonfiction proposals but with a synopsis.
So... were they really just asking for a partial, are the rules changing, or were they completely insane?
- August 21, 2009 at 11:30 PM
- Nathan Bransford said...
Usually proposals for fiction are comprised of an overview/synopsis, sometimes accompanied by a character summary or outline, and then a hefty excerpt from the novel, 30-100 pages depending on the situation and project. Sort of a slightly scaled down version of a nonfiction book proposal.
You can almost never sell a debut on proposal, so I think they probably just wanted to see the overview/synopsis and sample pages to get a sense of the project.
- August 22, 2009 at 12:02 AM
Hope I'm not too late to this topic to ask. Are there any significant differences in the proposal structure for middle grade nonfiction? Does it make a difference if the writer will be pitching to her current (fiction) agent?
Thanks so much for your terrific blog!
- August 30, 2009 at 5:27 PM
Hello Nathan,
I realize you've heard this many times by now, but wow! What a great blog!
My question to you is: what does a good query look like for a non-fiction book? I've seen in your blog a formula for fiction queries, examples of good fiction queries and an excellent framework from which to build a non-fiction proposal. However, it appears to me that I would have to query an agent first before submitting a proposal and I was hoping that you could outline what a good non-fiction query would look like. Or do you just send the full proposal with sample chapters etc. right off the bat?
Thank you for all of your great info and the time you take to post it here!
- August 31, 2009 at 2:46 AM
- Laura said...
Thank you for the excellent and extremely useful post! I (and many other readers of this blog, I'm sure) wouldn't mind seeing some of your favorite examples of a good non-fiction query letter. Just sayin'.
I'm writing a query for a non-fiction book that discusses the cultural impact of something that's been, up til now, largely internet-based. Would it be appropriate to include samples of blog posts and their photos in the 'Other' section, to indicate that there's a large and diverse online reach for this specific topic (which would be discussed in the book)? Examples include themed recipes, XBOX mods, fan costumes, snow sculptures, and hundreds of toys and clothing items...as I said, it's diverse. Is there a good way to format stuff like that, if it's okay to present it?
- October 8, 2009 at 12:57 PM
- JaneBoHa said...
What is more important in the sample chapters - the number "three" chapters or a word count? I ask because my first three chapters are a total of 500 words. If the idea is to see 750 words (derived by 3 pages averaging 250 words each), then I would include more chapters.
Thank you.
- October 12, 2009 at 12:55 AM
- livejasmin said...
nice share you have here, keep up the good work !
- January 13, 2010 at 12:55 PM
- Aaron Heideman said...
Hey Nathan,
I like your ideas, but what if my memoir is also a collective self-portrait of America? Do I have to play by the same rules? Find me on Facebook.
- February 22, 2010 at 10:58 PM
- JP said...
I just jumped over here from the Authonomy site. The place is swarming with fiction, HELP!
I was shocked to see so few non fiction writers. Obviously I'm new, but is that an indication of the agent ratio for non fiction representation?
If so, this might be harder than I dreamed, considering my subject.
- March 14, 2010 at 4:03 AM
- Angel-Star said...
Hi Nathan, just found you yesterday and already I am such a fan of your measured, wise and compassionate approach to the writing life. Your happy writer rules are awesome...and your generous spirit shines very clearly through your blog. I am a follower and fan, and plan in the near future to send a non-fiction proposal. Thank you for the tips.
Best Wishes, Star
- March 26, 2010 at 4:22 PM
Hello Nathan,
I just found your site and I love the way you give honest and useful information. I know you said to treat memoir like a novel, but I have a special case. I am currently helping a woman who is both well known and notorious in my city to write a short memoir of her life as a non-confidential ghost writer (name on the project). She and I are both dirt poor - so I am not asking her to pay me up front (i know, i know - bad idea, but it wont work otherwise and I like her a lot) and I was planning to get money from an advance to write the book. Now Im scared that I need the whole thing - which I dont have the time to write unless I have some money for it so I can take time off. I guess my question is this: Is it possible to sell a memoir with a proposal and sample chapters only since she is well known already? Do I address the fact that the manuscript is unfinished in the proposal? How should I proceed? Any help would be massively helpful.
- April 14, 2010 at 10:09 AM
^ I made some misleading grammatical errors. I will be helping her to write about her life, and I will be the non-confidential ghost writer. (I made it seem like I said I would be writing about HER life as a ghost writer - which would not be a very interesting book compared to her real life as a performer and prostitute...)
- April 14, 2010 at 4:14 PM
Just out of curiosity, how much of an effort should an author expect from an agent to sell a book?
I appreciate that this is a bit like asking 'how long is a piece of string?', but I recently received a knock back from an agent who said that although I was writing in a popular genre (the ms. is a biographical non-fiction narrative set in WWII), she felt it was insufficiently 'robust' for it to be a 'slam dunk project' with publishers.
I felt like writing back saying if it was a slam dunk, I wouldn't really be needing her services, because the publishers would be fighting themselves to get to it...
I realise that no agent is expected to flog a dead horse, but to extend her analaogy, is a hail Mary shot from outside the keyhole ever in order?
For the record, I'm an award-winning published author. Grateful your views.
- May 5, 2010 at 11:58 PM
I have a wonderful albeit complicated story for a book but I do not consider myself a writer. Do you have any suggestions for a novice?
- May 18, 2010 at 2:56 PM
- PVC Mermaid said...
I am working on a non-fiction book at the moment and am preparing my proposal. The book itself is made up of a series of biographies of different historical women, linked thematically and compared and contrasted with one another. Each biography is one chapter and therefore, my chapters are on the long side (8-12k words).
I am therefore unsure if I should send the full 3 sample chapters sometimes indicated. I know "how long is a chapter" is like asking how long a piece of string is, but I can't help but think an agent is not really interesting in getting a novella-length "sample". I'm sure he or she will have made up their mind long before the end of that!
How much would you recommend I send in these circumstances?
- May 25, 2010 at 4:59 PM
- Darah Zeledon said...
Wow! I am a total rookie and seems the work involved is far greater than a proposal for a fiction book.
My question is very basic and indeed ignorant, but I will go for it anyway since I can hide my identity behind the computer screen.
Once an agent agrees to "take you on," is an editor assigned to assist the writer in the actual writing/organizing/classifying process or must one simply arrive with a fully edited complete manuscript? For ex., in my case, I have a brief synopsis of each of the chapter of my book- for a total of about 50-70 pages. Is that enough to "use" in order to reel in an agent?
What is a respectable amount of pages for a non-fic book? Sorry, I am not versed in word numbers, I still think in pages...
Thanks so much! Darah
- June 14, 2010 at 12:03 AM
- sparrowintherain said...
My question is fairly simple. When you're writing a chapter outline for a proporsal based on a memoir, do you use your name, or do you just say the author? Ex: Jane Doe was shocked to hear the news OR The author was shocked to hear the news?
Thanks kindly,
- August 15, 2010 at 5:14 PM
- sparrowintherain said...
- This comment has been removed by the author.
- August 15, 2010 at 5:15 PM
- rich k. said...
Nathan. Great info!!! I am a new writer and my book is a memoir about growing up in Cleveland during the 60's. I am getting conflicting info regarding query vs. proposal. I am being told a proposal must be done. Others say I must finish my book prior to submitting a query; no proposal needed. Whar are your thoughts on this? Thanks!
- October 10, 2010 at 1:03 PM
Are your book proposal guidelines any different for humor book proposals? I'm writing my first humor book.
- October 25, 2010 at 8:48 AM
- Hristo said...
Hello Nathan Brandsford!
great Blog! Very helpful information. Am,i just wonder, if the nonfiction book is about reduce the poverty and crime in the world, reach the milenium revolution in our lives on the planet and all future times, to what or who agen i should send a proposal?
Thank you!
- March 3, 2011 at 11:27 AM
- arodrigu said...
Hi Nathan,
Your blog is wonderful. Thank you for taking the time to share your knowledge (and humor). I have a meeting with an editor in two months, scheduled through the writing community I belong to. (So she has agreed to meet with people without seeing their queries.) I can now submit a query, a synopsis/overview, and 20 pages of writing. I am writing a collection of essays (humor and parenting). I have scoured the internet looking for a way to do the overview for a book of essays. Could you help point me in the right direction? It doesn't fall under regular non-fiction guidelines. I'd love your help. Thank you! (The book is basically done.)
- March 21, 2011 at 4:30 PM
Hi Nathan - Love your blog. I recently wrote a memoir, have been sending out query letters and two agents have asked for my proposal and a sample chapter. Is the proposal in question the same as a non-fiction book proposal? The memoir is about a recent trip to the Middle East - uggggh. Can I just send in a synopsis?
- April 19, 2011 at 10:10 AM
Hi Nathan - Love your blog. I recently wrote a memoir, have been sending out query letters and two agents have asked for my proposal and a sample chapter. Is the proposal in question the same as a non-fiction book proposal? The memoir is about a recent trip to the Middle East - uggggh. Can I just send in a synopsis?
- April 19, 2011 at 10:10 AM
- Owatrol Paint Conditioner said...
It is important that the proposal include a writing sample, for the editor to have an idea on the sense of your style. You may have great ideas, but that is not enough if you cannot effectively convey them.
- September 20, 2011 at 9:55 PM
- Ndnchic83 said...
- This comment has been removed by the author.
- October 12, 2011 at 3:18 AM
- The Torg said...
Well done Nathan. Thanks! Shared it with my Facebook buds. Take care!
- November 22, 2011 at 11:37 AM
- Fearless Leader of the CLF said...
Thanks so much for the great article. This was the most concise article on the subject that I could find.
- November 28, 2011 at 6:41 PM
- Bee said...
After reading this I am now thinking how I can turn my non fiction book into a fiction one! :-)
- February 9, 2012 at 10:25 AM
I am writing a proposal for a chapbook related to food. Since the particular book I am doing hasn't been done before in this vein - I've found a fresh angle - I assume I would still have to compare it to books that have been written about the same subject.
The next issue is that the chapters aren't really chapters in the traditional sense. Do I therefore include two or three sections?
Finally, while I don't have much of a platform - most of my published work doesn't relate to the subject - I assume that my extensive background in the area would suffice.
If you need further information to provide a genuine answer, please leave me an email address where I might contact you. Otherwise, I look forward to your answer to my post on this board.
- March 24, 2012 at 2:45 PM
What would be your advice for a non-writer with a compelling true story (as in one that will be told in national media) who also doesn't have the money to get hire an editor to help with the proposal. I'm afraid I'll butcher a fantastic story. At best I could come up with a one page on my own I would say.
- April 16, 2012 at 10:06 PM
- Emmanuel K. Agbeletey said...
You guys are awesome. You really helped me.
- June 20, 2012 at 8:04 PM
- Avery June said...
You're a good egg.
- August 18, 2012 at 1:04 AM
I've seen here examples of good fiction query letters. Are there any examples of good non-fic query letters?
- September 10, 2013 at 5:04 PM
- Carreen Schroeder said...
Hi Nathan and thank you for this post. Although I have been a poetry writer throughout my life, I have been in the throes of a very passionate non-fiction book for a number of years now. I write, I shy away, I write, and so on. I am currently in the 'I am ready to draft and send my query letter' frame of mind. I do not know how long I will be at this bold venture but hope I can keep up the momentum to see it through and was wondering if you would be so kind as to help me with a little confusion I have: I have been told that for a non-fiction query letter,there should be three parts ONLY: The Hook; Mini-Synopsis; Bio. However, you have reminded me of what I have read before - 1. Previously written books in the same genre but how 'mine' is unique and; 2. The necessity of my book - how the world will know a more peaceful existence when it is published sort of thing.
My letter has been modified to include #'s 1 and 2 above but I will now barely have room to add the Addressee's name at the top without spilling over to a second page which I have been strictly told to avoid. Any advice?
- September 12, 2013 at 12:17 AM
And a couple more questions, if I might.
1 - How does the overview differ from the query? At first glance, they seem to cover the same territory.
2 - How long should the proposal be (minus the sample chapters)? one page? Two?
3 - I'm guessing the non-fic query also needs to be one page, right?
- September 14, 2013 at 4:17 PM
- Nathan Bransford said...
Nonfiction queries are really very similar to fiction queries. They should still be in the same word count range, and they need to get across the voice of the work and the gist of the project. The only main difference is that credentials for any kind of prescriptive nonfiction (e.g. "The Platform") is more important in nonfiction than fiction.
The overview is usually 3-5 pages and is something different than the query letter. Hope that helps!
- September 23, 2013 at 1:05 PM
- Beatty said...
Your blog is FANTASTIC! Thank you!
- November 11, 2013 at 11:15 PM
If I have a book written and need an agent, do I use a query or a proposal? My book is non-fiction but not one that needs research. its true events that perrsonally happened.
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Christina Aguilera is engaged!
Listen to Christina Aguilera on iHeartRadio
Matt Rutler gave girlfriend Christina Aguilera the best Valentine's Day present a girl could ask for: An engagement ring!
The Dirrty singer accepted and took to her Twitter page to showcase her new rock—captioning the photo simply, "He asked and I said…"
He asked and I said…… pic.twitter.com/XWZVZOjDX1
— Christina Aguilera (@xtina) February 15, 2014
This will be Xtina's second marriage—she was previously wed to producer Jordan Bratmanfrom 2005-2010 and actually met Rutler on the set of the film Burlesque, just one month after she split from Bratman.
In short, she was with Brat, met Matt, divorced Brat.
Bratman and "The Voice" coach share custody of their six-year old son, Max.
"Matt and Max are crazy about each other. Matt is a real natural with kids," a source tells Popdust exclusively.
For now, the couple is shacked up in Christina's $10 million Los Angeles mansion.
Photo Credit Getty Images

subset: commoncrawl


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September 15, 2005
Your Resilience on the Rise:Continuing to Grow from your 9/11 Experience
Attend this series of 2 FREE workshops and learn how to live your best life and thrive once again. You'll learn how to:
Choose the location that's right for you:
Enhancing Relationships (Session 1)September 19 -- MiddletownMiddletown Township Public Library, 732-671-3700
September 21 -- RidgewoodThe Ridgewood Library, 125 North Maple Ave., 201-670-5600
September 22 -- Jersey CitySt Peter's College, Degnan Conference Room in St. Peter Hall, 2641 Kennedy Blvd, 201-915-9000
Enhancing Coping Skills (Session 2)September 26 -- HazletHazlet Library, 251 Middle Road, Hazlet, NJ 07730, 732-264-7164
September 28 -- RidgewoodRidgewood Library
September 29 -- Jersey CitySt. Peter's College
These workshops will be led by Sarah L. Schleifer, MSSW, LCSW, a social worker with over 20 years experience in trauma and recovery and Theresa Creedon, a consultant who draws upon her personal 9/11 experiences including the loss of her brother, a Port Authority Police officer, and the inspiration she gained from the survival of her other brother, a corporate sector employee located in the WTC.
Please RSVP by calling 1-866-4-U-NJ-911 or email firstname.lastname@example.com. Indicate which session you will be attending. Please call the facility for directions. All sessions are scheduled from 7-9 PM.
These workshops are sponsored by the "It's for You NJ 911" program, which offers free counseling, community education sessions and information and resources for New Jersey residents affected by the events of 9/11. It's for You NJ 911 is sponsored by the Office of the Attorney General, Division of Criminal Justice and UMDNJ-University Behavioral Healthcare. For more information call 1-866-4-U-NJ-911 or visit www.4unj911.org. Project supported by Award # RF-GX-0006, Office for Victims of Crime & Justice Programs.


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Disney to Launch Online Movie Service Linked to iTunes
More than four years after it began working on a digital movie technology meant to unify Hollywood, Walt Disney is debuting with just one, very familiar partner.
The entertainment giant on Tuesday plans to launch Disney Movies Anywhere, an app for purchasing movies and storing them in the cloud that is tightly integrated with Apple iTunes Store.
Launching initially only on iOS devices and the Web, Disney Movies Anywhere (DMA) allows users to browse, purchase, and watch more than 400 movies from the company, including its library of classic animated titles and family-friendly live-action ones like "Pirates of the Caribbean" and "Thor: The Dark World." R-rated movies aren't included.
Disney's strategy stands out from its competitors in Hollywood, all of which support an initiative called Ultraviolet, which allows customers to store movies from different studios and retailers in a single virtual online locker and watch them on most Internet-connected devices.
Ultraviolet has several online partners, but its most notable omission is Apple's iTunes.
By contrast, Disney Movies Anywhere is for a single studio and lets users buy movies only from iTunes.
"If you're going to do digital retailers, Apple is far and away the best one to have," said Disney Studios Chief Technology Officer Jamie Voris.
However, he said, the app would likely be integrated with other partners in the future, such as mobile devices using Google's Android operating system and Microsoft's Xbox console. "This is phase one and we're going to continue to grow over time," he said.
DMA is powered by a Disney-developed digital storage and streaming technology called Keychest. It was intended to be used by multiple studios, but the rest of the industry signed onto Ultraviolet, while Disney lagged behind in supporting a cloud storage solution–which many consider critical to boosting sales of digital copies of movies.
With DVD sales declining, studios are looking to digital purchases to make up the difference. Last year, revenue from sales of movies online grew 47% to $1.19 billion, helping to keep the overall home entertainment market flat, according to the Digital Entertainment Group.
DMA continues Disney's history of collaboration with Apple. It was the first company to sell movies and television shows through iTunes.
Disney Chief Executive Robert Iger is on Apple's board of directors. Apple's late founder and CEO, Steve Jobs, was the largest individual shareholder in Disney following its purchase of his Pixar Animation Studios. His 7.5% stake in the company is now held by the Laurene Powell Jobs Trust, controlled by his widow.
Because Disney has a brand that resonates more powerfully than other, more generic studios, it has a history of creating its own online experiences that speak directly to its family audience. If successful, DMA could grow the company's online movie sales while keeping customers completely in a Disney-controlled environment.
The app also features exclusive content connected to movies available to purchase and will allow consumers to redeem digital copies that come with DVDs and Blu-ray discs they have bought.
Related: Ben Fritz has more details on digits.


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- Blue-Green Algae ADVISORY: (Sand Lake at Chain O'Lakes): Swimming and boating permitted. Avoid contact with algae. Avoid swallowing water while swimming. Take a bath or shower with warm soapy water after coming in contact with lake water. Do no use lake water for cooking or bathing. Do not allow your pets to swim or drink water where algae are present. Check back for updates. Learn more about blue-green algae.
Chain O' Lakes Events
This is lake country and a small boater's paradise. Nine connecting lakes will be the center of your adventures at Chain O'Lakes. Paddle through the chain of serene kettle lakes, hike the 10 miles of forested trails, fish the electric-motors-only lakes, stay overnight in a forested hillside family cabin, or visit the park's old one-room schoolhouse nature center. Other facilities available for visitors to enjoy include a campground, beach and picnic shelters.
Camping - See campground maps under MAPS tab
Note: For trail locations, view the property map under the MAPS tab.
1. MODERATE (1.5 miles)—Begins north of campground, follows a ridge through the woods before dropping down in a valley, crosses two channels as it circles around the north side of Dock Lake, and returns to the campground.
2. MODERATE (1 mile)—Begins at the parking lot on the north shore of Bowen Lake, follows the lake shore through the woods and returns to the parking lot.
3. EASY (.5 mile)—Links the campground with the beach.
4. MODERATE (1 mile)— Takes you past four lakes, wooded areas, swamps and open fields.
5. EASY (1.3 miles)—Follows shore around Sand Lake through willows and open areas.
6. RUGGED (2.5 miles)—Provides access to Long Lake by way of Trail 1 through open field, locust and pine trees. It then follows the southwest shore of Long Lake through creek bottoms and woods.
7. EASY (1.8 miles)—Begins at Sand Lake fishing pier, follows along the channel to Bowen Lake, then turns west to connect with Weber Lake and returns along the channel to Sand Lake. It winds through lowlands, along two different channels, and through an upland forest.
8. MODERATE (.5 mile)—A self-guiding nature trail. It begins at the interpretive center, circles Finster Lake and crosses a glacial kame, and returns to the interpretive center.


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Bookmark this site
WATERBURY, VT -- Keurig Green Mountain Inc. said it is opening a manufacturing facility for its new Cold platform in Douglas County, GA. According to Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal, the venture will involve an investment of some $337 million over five years and will create about 550 jobs. Douglas County is part of the greater metropolitan Atlanta area, located west of the city.
The new 585,000-sq.ft. manufacturing center will support the production of pods for Keurig's in-home cold beverage system. Early this year, Keurig and Coca-Cola announced that they had formed a long-term global strategic partnership to collaborate on the development and introduction of Coca-Cola's global brand portfolio for use in the Keurig Cold beverage system. Currently under development, the new platform is slated to debut in Keurig's 2015 fiscal year. | SEE STORY
"Keurig Cold is an exciting new multi-brand platform for our company, and ensuring beverage pod production capacity and efficiency are key to its success," said Keurig's president and chief executive Brian Kelley. "The Douglas County region offers a diverse and skilled employee base as well as many geographic and economic benefits, making it a great location for our new facility."
Keurig currently maintains seven production and distribution facilities in the U.S. They're in Castroville, CA, Knoxville, TN; Windsor, VA, and Sumner, WA, as well as Essex, Waterbury and Williston, VT. It also has a Canadian facility in Montreal. The company conducts research and development activities in facilities in Burlington, Reading and Wakefield, MA, and at its Waterbury headquarters facility. The Douglas County site will complement the company's new early production center in Williston, VT, which will serve as a hub for Keurig Cold startup and early production work.


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May 19, 2012 at 02:49:13 May 19, 2012 @ 02:49
Rōnin (浪人) is New York based menswear brand. Looking to define the culture and experiences of the ruthless vagabond, we incorporate personality and a unique touch into everything we make in hopes to share our experiences and stories with anyone that is willing to listen. We are fueled by one purpose; to create an ever growing family that will one day lead this to more than just a project.
instagram: @ronindivision
Fall | Winter 2012
After releasing it's Spring | Summer 2012 debut collection earlier this year, Rōnin returns with it's Fall | Winter collection consisting of several t shirts and hoodies, and a folding knife. This collection has taken it's inspiration from historic references from various different cultural backgrounds whilst maintaining clean and appealing designs. Available here on September 1st.


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Best Of :: Sports & Recreation
Houston Aeros right wing Jean-Michel Daoust is a scrappy little guy, not much more than five-feet-seven, and he's pretty easy to miss in the jumble of the action on the ice. But it's in that jumble that you want to look for Daoust, because it's from that jumble that he's going to emerge and make something happen. Whether he's finding a way to get his stick on the puck for a game-winning goal — he was the team's leading scorer last season with 55 points — or so getting under the skin of a much bigger opponent that the opponent ends up in the penalty box, Daoust's going to be there. His excellent season earned him a new contract with the Aeros, so when on-ice trouble pops up at Toyota Center this year, look for him to be in the middle of the action.
The Yates High School basketball team wasn't just the best team in Houston; it was the best team in the entire country. Undisputed. The People Who Matter, like ESPN and USA Today, said so. But the team also drew a heavy amount of criticism for the same thing: being too good. After Yates routinely beat other schools by ungodly margins, national sportswriter Rick Reilly basically called the team a classless bunch that ran up the score. "It's Yates High School," Ronald Mumphery, the school's principal, told the Houston Press. "So we have to apologize because our kids have done a good job."
This has not been a good year for Houston's pro sports teams. And there wasn't much more to celebrate on the college level either, little of note from any school's hoops or diamond squads other than some middling gridiron success by the Houston Cougars. Nope, you have to look across Scott Street and all the way down to the high school ranks for Houston's signature sports moment of the past year. And in actual fact, for Yates's flawless hoopsters, it was less of a moment than it was a few months of sustained brilliance and not blowing it. And not blowing it is no mean feat: Just ask Michael Young, the father of Yates star Joseph Young. The elder Young's Phi Slama Jama squad managed to spit the championship bit against NC State in one of the most heartbreaking losses in Houston sports history. Not so with the Mighty Lions and their patented 32-minutes-of-hell style of ball. They rolled into the state playoffs after beating district teams by margins ranging from 88 to a staggering, national headline-grabbing, controversial 135 points, and continued taking care of business in the postseason, cruising through the title game with a comfortable 19-point cushion. What will the pride of Third Ward do for an encore after two straight b-ball state championships and a two-season record of 68-1?
Want the bright lights of a big city? Hungry for glitz, glam and decadence? Go to Vegas. Looking for something a little closer to the quiet tranquility of the rugged Texas Gulf Coast? Try Palacios, just two hours south of Houston. Called "The City by the Sea," Palacios is both tiny (with less than 6,000 residents) and big (home to more than 400shrimping boats, it's the shrimp capital of Texas). There's a bit of a boardwalk, and a few hundred yards of white sandy beach, but the lack of an extended waterfront is made up for by several piers and jetties that extend well out into the water, both of which are popular with fishermen in the early mornings and couples at sunset. Two family restaurants, the Outrigger (which serves seafood) and Palacios Mexican Restaurant, satisfy most tastes, but fishing enthusiasts can also catch their own supper and grill it at one of the many beachside picnic/barbecue shelters.
If some developer ever paid (bribed) the right person enough money to build a couple hotels and a cluster of restaurants in Brazos Bend, we guarantee it'd be the top tourist attraction in the region. It's that cool. That will never happen — at least we pray it doesn't — and that's a good thing. Brazos Bend is about an hour's drive from downtown, and it's the perfect place to spend an afternoon or two, walking the trails, avoiding the alligators and maybe doing a little fishing. The top of the observation tower is one of the best places in the area, especially considering you can experience it and not be on vacation.
When Harris County Commissioner Steve Radack wanted to spend more than $2 million to build a soapbox derby hill in northwest Harris County, some people thought he was crazy. But he got it built, and now the area has one of the finest soapbox derby hills around. The Greater Houston Soapbox Derby hosts its events at the park — quite the upgrade from an old railroad overpass — and the county, from time to time, sponsors free-ride days for all ages. It's like Field of Dreams but better, because this derby hill should provide thrills for Houstonians for generations to come.


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Concertgoer dies after stage dive at Persistence Tour show
A young metal fan has died after a failed stage dive attempt at a Persistence Tour gig in Switzerland.
According to "Blabbermouth," the incident took place during the January 22nd show, which featured performances from Suicidal Tendencies, Terror, Strife, and Evergreen Terrace.
The head of the venue explains that the 28-year-old tried to jump off the stage, but the crowd members failed to properly catch him and he fell to the ground. He says a security guard responded immediately and helped bring in the venue's emergency unit.
They suggested the fan go to the hospital, where he reportedly had an epileptic seizure and died on January 24th.
A spokeswoman for the State Police called the concertgoer's death an accident, but the prosecutor's office is still launching an investigation into the incident.
Photo Credit Getty Images


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If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, you probably want to know what medications and herbal remedies are safe to take after you become pregnant. Ideally, it would be best to discuss your current medications with your doctor before you conceive. In any case, as soon as you know you are pregnant, inform your health care providers and discuss what medicines are safe for you to take.
If you are breast-feeding, some medications may pass into the breast milk and cause unwanted effects on your nursing baby, so check with your health care provider about taking medications after the baby is born as well.
If you are taking medication for a condition such as epilepsy, high blood pressure, asthma, or depression, often the benefits of continuing to take the medicine during pregnancy outweigh the risks to the baby. Don't assume you should stop taking the medicine. Always check with your doctor to determine the recommendation for you. You may also be able to switch to another medication that treats your problem with less risk to your developing baby.
Some medicines have been shown to cause possible birth defects or other problems in unborn children. For other medicines, there is not good information as to whether they are safe or unsafe during pregnancy. Some of the medications known to cause birth defects are listed below. This list provides examples only -- do NOT assume a medication is safe or unsafe based solely on this chart.
Aspirin and Ibuprofen: Aspirin should be avoided during pregnancy, unless your health care provider specifically recommends it. Occasionally, women with a history of blood clotting problems, miscarriage, or pre-eclampsia are told to take aspirin while they are pregnant. Otherwise, it's best not to take aspirin. Be aware that aspirin is in many other over-the-counter medications, such as Pepto Bismol and cold medicines. Ibuprofen is also best avoided during pregnancy, as it can affect the fetus' kidneys.
Tylenol: Generally, Tylenol (acetaminophen) is considered safe to take during pregnancy in standard doses. Check with your doctor before you take more than a few doses, and discuss the number of days that would be considered safe to take it consecutively.
Medications for Colds, Constipation, and Indigestion: There are some over-the-counter medications and natural remedies that are considered safe for these ailments. Check with your health care provider about which medication is best for you, based on your symptoms and how far along you are in your pregnancy. In general, cold remedies with only one active ingredient are best.
While herbal medications are commonly thought of as "natural" alternatives to other medicines, they can be just as potent as some prescription medications. Many herbs contain chemicals that will cross the placenta to your baby if taken while you are pregnant. Some herbs have been known to cause premature contractions if taken during pregnancy. Generally, the use of medicinal drugs (including herbal tea) is best avoided altogether, particularly during the first trimester. You should always talk to your health care provider before taking any herb during pregnancy.


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Brevard, N.C. - Coach Reva Shane Jarrett is pleased to announce the naming of the 2010-2011 cheerleading captains, in seniors Katie Spiker and Mary Beth Criser.
The two captains have been recognized for their extemporary work and leadership ability, and will assist Coach Jarrett during the 2010-2011 athletic seasons as the Tornados bring the cheerleading program to new heights in the coming year.
For more information on the BC Cheerleading program, and all BC athletics, follow the Tornados at www.BCTornados.com.


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Hello fellow Authors!
I wanted to take a moment and write about some things I think Audio Jungle is doing quite well.
I'm doing this because I've been quite vocal about things I don't understand or see as a problem. I didn't want to look like the new guy coming in here complaining about everything. I kind of can't help myself; it's the way I'm wired. If I see something I think can be improved, I'm very vocal about it. If everyone keeps their mouths shut, then problems have little chance of changing. But at the same time, I admit some things may not be a problem (or a misunderstanding on my part) and don't need changing – which is why discussing them makes sense.
I had this international business professor back when I was in school. He asked us this question: "Who would you ask if you wanted to know about the problems in a country, the citizens of that country or a foreigner who's there on vacation or has lived there for a very short time?"
Most of us said the citizens of the country. Seemed to make sense. We were wrong according to him.
In his words, the people of the country have been living there all their lives and they often don't recognize some things as being a problem because they're so used to seeing it every day – in a sense they've grown numb to the problem. But throw a foreigner into the mix and they notice these things right away. (ask a foreigner what problems Taiwan has. "Running red lights" will be at the top of the list. For some reason people here don't think running a red light is really a big deal.)
So like the above story, if AJ were a country and I a foreigner here, I came here and quickly noticed certain things I felt were 'problems' that many of you have been living with here for years. I apologize for being too overzealous at times!
Ok, so on to the things I think Audio Jungle is doing great. Without further ado…
1. Great Site Layout – I think Audio Jungle has a pretty good layout for searching and auditioning music and sound effects. I purchase a good deal of sound effects over the course of a year, and I've been turned off by many websites due to their difficulty to navigate and ESPECIALLY difficulty in auditioning sounds. AJ is doing great in this respect.
2. Good Internet Speeds – Upload and streaming speeds work great for me here. Some other marketplaces take too long to audition samples. (Ok, I haven't bought anything from this marketplace, but regardless, the speeds are good)
3. Great community – Before I came here I researched the various marketplaces. One comment I saw several times was about the great community authors AJ has. I concur. You guys and gals are fabulous.
4. Referral System – It's great! Hope to make use of it often!
5. Portfolio and item customization – Not sure how other sites do this, but I love the idea of being able to customize our looks and the ability to have personal logos. I still haven't really tried to take full advantage of this, but will do so as my portfolio grows.
6. Allowing us to be "seen" and contacted – I think the transparency here is pretty good in this respect. If someone wants to contact me about anything, they easily can. It's not like my items are thrown into the ring without any connection to me. In some ways that anonymity might be good, but really, I like the opportunity to present who I am and what I can do.
7. Staff response to forum posts (via the "request staff reply" button) is really cool. I've used it a couple times and they have responded in the thread within 24 hours. I've never seen this feature in any forum before and like that AJ utilizes it.
8. Connection with other Envato marketplaces – I doubt I'll ever be selling stock photos or themes, but for those who do I think it's great to be able to do all of that within one umbrella marketplace.
9. API Keys – I still haven't looked into this feature in depth, but it seems like an awesome tool for us to use. As a matter of fact, I think I'll check it out after posting this!
10. This should probably be #1… The ability for me to have a venue to sell my wares and grow accordingly – Some places require a rather large portfolio to be considered. There's nothing wrong with those places – it's one type of business model. But being able to grow your portfolio in a marketplace like this, seeing "instant returns" as it were, is rather encouraging and helpful to our growth. We can find out what sells, what doesn't and what's acceptable or not. This in turn gives us direction to follow. A good business model IMO.
Ok, I'll leave it at 10 for now. Seems like a good number to stop. Feel free to add on if you wish!
Thanks for reading!
Well said!
What are API Keys how do they work here? xD
buddhabeats said
3. Great community – Before I came here I researched the various marketplaces. One comment I saw several times was about the great community authors AJ has. I concur. You guys and gals are fabulous.
I totally agree with you on this one mate. The community here is amazing! Hard to find better in my opinion
Kurlykovs said
What are API Keys how do they work here? xD
Guess I should have said I like the "Extras" offered by AJ – the API Keys being a part of that.
As I understand it, the keys are a security feature to allow 3rd party applications secure access to your account here – stats applications seeming to be a popular one.
I've personally downloaded a stats app for my Android phone and can use that to look at parts of my dashboard. It's quicker than trying to use the Internet on my phone to navigate through AJ. Not sure I completely like the current one I'm using, but there's more than one on offer; will try a few more.
Gotta check that out for my iphone!


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Gold Evil Eye Hamsa Hand Bracelet Hand Made
Standard Women Size 7″, Standard Men Size 8″
What is the Hamsa Hand?
The Hamsa Hand, which is an artistic rendering of an outstretched hand, is likely the most prevalent symbol throughout the Middle East today. This ever popular talisman, typically featured in jewelry and wall hangings, is thought to give protection from the "Evil Eye" (curses brought on by the envy of others) and to bring good fortune.
To read more about Hamsa press here: Judaica Hamsa Hand


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Providing resources, research & advocacy to level the playing field for women entrepreneurs
In recent years, we have seen vast numbers of women start their own businesses both in the United States and across the globe. But despite great numbers, women entrepreneurs employ fewer employees, have less sales, and obtain less financing than their male counterparts. The dual problem -- too little support for women-owned startups and a dearth of women at the helm of successful, high-growth businesses -- require a holistic solution that will cultivate and support women along their entire entrepreneurial journey.
By combining the resources of Barnard College with those of the venture community at Columbia University – both located in New York City, a growing center of entrepreneurial activity, Athena is uniquely positioned to provide education and training needed by today's underrepresented and highly undercapitalized women entrepreneurs - Athena is developing a unique and innovative program, specifically tailored to women, that will serve as a model that can be replicated across the nation.
Student Programs
Studies show that teenage girls as early as the ninth grade begin to internalize messages that ultimately dissuade them from entering technology or startup fields. These perceptions persist throughout high school and manifest in low enrollment in departments that serve as funnels for entrepreneurship after college graduation. For women who beat the odds and decide to launch ventures, a landscape with few channels of support and limited mentorship is disproportionately challenging. Athena's programs help to change these messages and offer much needed support and mentoring for young women entrepreneurs:
Athena Mastermind Groups: Athena Mastermind groups of eight women pair promising Barnard students who are actively running start-ups with experienced women entrepreneurs for monthly accountability sessions and hands-on support. The first Mastermind cohort, launched in 2012, has already resulted in the acquisition of a student venture by a Silicon Valley startup and other promising successes. Beginning in fall 2013, Athena will sponsor two Mastermind groups, providing leadership to the groups and monthly dinners. LEARN MORE
Office Hours for Entrepreneurs: Beginning in Fall 2013, Athena will hold regular office hours for student entrepreneurs. Drawing upon successful women entrepreneurs, Barnard alumnae, parents, and program staff, these one-on-one sessions will provide mentoring and support for Barnard students and provide information on available resources such as workshops, brainstorming labs, pitch-fests, competitions and hack-a-thons offered by the Columbia Venture Network and the New York startup community. LEARN MORE
Leadership Lab Workshops: Each year, the Athena Center offers 40 – 50 Leadership Lab workshops to Barnard students on a wide range of leadership skills, from financial literacy to effective negotiation to story-telling and communication. Ranging from two-hour to full-day sessions, the workshops are taught by experienced trainers and professionals and feature interactive, hands-on components. Among the offerings is a special series designed for young entrepreneurs. Taught by experienced entrepreneurs and angel investors, these workshops help Barnard students learn the basics of starting their own businesses, strategies, project management and team building that are necessary for successful startups. LEARN MORE
Entrepreneurs in Training: In collaboration with Barnard's Office of Pre-College Programs and leading business and STEM educators, Athena has launched an intensive 10-day summer program for female high-school students called Entrepreneurs-in-Training. During the Summers 2013 and 2014, participants designed businesses, pitched their plans to respected investors from the startup sector, and were exposed to core entrepreneurial concepts. The program will foster the confidence and develop skills young women need to launch their own ventures. LEARN MORE
Additional Programs & Partnerships:
- Athena hosted the White House's Urban Economic Forum. This full-day program featuring Senior White House Advisor Valerie Jarrett, and an extraordinary group of successful entrepreneurs, brought to campus over 400 women business owners from across New York.
- Athena co-sponsored the nation-wide pitch competition for Make Mine a Million, where hundreds of women pitched their businesses for a chance to enter Count Me In, a program that helps women grow their businesses into million-dollar enterprises.
- Athena partnered with the Girl Scouts of Greater New York in July 2013 to create a leadership training institute, which kicked off with the ten-day intensive summer program, Entrepreneurs in Training. LEARN MORE
- Athena collaborates with the Columbia Venture Community to provide mentors, counseling, forums and informal social events that introduce the Barnard community to innovators and entrepreneurs from diverse fields. We have also co-sponsored several hack-a-thons with HackNY.
- Athena is sponsoring a promising new student-run startup, Athena Digital Design, that will provide web development training for Barnard students and cost-effective web site development to the community.


text: Erik Parker was preparing for two solo shows, one in LA, and one in Fort Worth, when I visited his studio in Brooklyn. Parker is known for making large scale paintings that are as comfortable with their roots as they are disorienting with their forms and spaces. First you get a hug, and then a slap. He said he wanted his paintings to still look good 40 years from now. By reorienting Modernist and Pop sensibilities, and then almost using contrapposto to create a balanced but expressive distortion, Parker was remixing some old school classics — like flower still-lives– into something fresh. His LA show is at Honor Fraser and opens on October 30th, and the Fort Worth show is at the Fort Worth Modern and opens on December 5th, and is curated by Andrea Karnes.


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The Best Jeans for Your Body Shape
5 perfect denim picks for 5 different body types
-Paige Herman Axel
Next to bathing suits, finding the right jeans could be one of the most daunting shopping tasks. In my experience, about one of every five pairs fits just right, and when I find that pair, I usually buy that style in every color available. All of our bodies are different, and what works for one might not work for the next. Personally, I've worn three of the below five styles at different points (and weights) in my life, and the other two come highly recommended.
If you're curvy…
There's nothing worse than trying to stuff yourself into too-tight jeans, and when you have curves, you need to accentuate them with the right pair of jeans. This means enough room in the waist so you can sit comfortably, enough room in the hips so you can zip them, enough room in the thighs so your legs don't look like sausages, and a little bit of stretch. Enter Joe's Jeans in the "Honey" cut. $138, Nordstrom.com
If you have a non-existent rear…
The grass is always greener on the other side, right? When you have some junk in the trunk, you're constantly paranoid your butt looks big— and when you have a flat tush, all you want is some projection. The key to creating the illusion of a shapelier derriere lies in the pockets. Look for flaps that add volume, like the ones on cK Calvin Klein's Lean Bootcut. $79.50, Nordstrom.com


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Mark Schauer on Environment
Proponent's argument to vote Yes:Rep. OBEY (D, WI-7): The cash for clunkers program has proven even more wildly popular than its strongest supporters had predicted. Just last month, Congress passed the program, which provided up to $4,500 if you trade in your old gas guzzler for a new car that gets better mileage. That was done in the hopes of spurring some new car sales and encouraging people to be a little more environmentally friendly. We provided $1 billion in the supplemental to get it going, enough for about 250,000 sales--which was just about exhausted in one week. This bill transfers $2 billion from the Department of Energy's Innovative Technology Loan Guarantee program, which doesn't expect to award funding until late next year.
Opponent's argument to vote No:Rep. LEWIS (R, CA-41): In the majority's haste to slam legislation with no time for consideration or amendments, we are now seeing the effects of such shortsighted martial law tactics.
Senator Feinstein tried to negotiate some changes to improve the program but was told that it was this way or the highway. Not one hearing on the Cash for Clunkers program, not one hearing on how the first billion dollars has been spent, not one hearing on how much money the program will need to get through the fiscal year.
Many of my colleagues will say, This is a great program, and it is necessary for the revitalization of the car industry. I'm not really going to argue with those goals. However, are we sure this program is working like it's supposed to? I don't think so. This program has only been up and running 1 week. If that is how the government is going to handle billion-dollar programs affecting all Americans, I ask, Whatever will we do if the administration takes control of our health care system?
Proponent's argument to vote Yes:Rep. NICK RAHALL (D, WV-3): Earlier this year, the BLM made a truly shocking announcement. This Federal agency announced future plans to destroy, i.e., slaughter, 30,000 healthy wild horses and burros entrusted to their care by the American people. How in the world can a Federal agency be considering massive slaughter of animals the law says they are supposed to be protecting? The bill before us gives the agency as many options as possible to avoid destroying these animals.
Opponent's argument to vote No:Rep. DOC HASTINGS (R, WA-4): Across our Nation, Americans are struggling to pay their bills; 9.5% of Americans are out of work. With this backdrop, what is the response of this Democrat Congress to record unemployment and skyrocketing deficits? Their response is to create a $700 million welfare program for wild horses and burros. If the American people want an illustration of just how out of touch this Congress has become on spending, they need to look no further. In the last Congress, the House passed legislation to ban the commercial slaughter of wild horses and burros, that cost taxpayers less than $500,000 a year. Now we're looking at a bill that, again, bans slaughter of these animals but then proceeds to spend $700 million to create a new welfare program for wild horses. Republicans are focused on creating the jobs in this country, but this Democrat Congress seems to be more worried about wild burros and wild horses.
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to make permanent the tax deduction for charitable contributions by individuals and corporations of real property interests for conservation purposes. Known in the Senate as the Rural Heritage Conservation Extension Act of 2009.
The League of Conservation Voters (LCV) is a national non-profit organization that works to turn environmental values into national priorities.
|Other governors on Environment:
|Mark Schauer on other issues:
MI Gubernatorial:
Jennifer Granholm
Rick Snyder
MI Senatorial:
Debbie Stabenow
Gary Peters
Matt Wiedenhoeft
Terri Lynn Land
Gubernatorial Debates 2014:
AL: Bentley(R) vs.Griffith(D)
AR: Ross(D) vs.Hutchinson(R) vs.Griffin(R,Lt.Gov.)
AZ: Ducey(R) vs.DuVal(D) vs.Mealer(AE) vs.Gilbert(L) vs.
CA: Brown(D) vs.Kashkari(R)
CO: Hickenlooper(D) vs.Beauprez(R) vs.
CT: Malloy(D) vs.Foley(R) vs.Walker(R,Lt.Gov.)
FL: Scott(R) vs.Crist(D) vs.Snitker(L,Lt.Gov.)
GA: Deal(R) vs.Carter(D) vs.Hunt(L)
HI: Ige(D) vs.Aiona(R) vs.
IA: Branstad(R) vs.Hatch(D) vs.
MA: Coakley(D) vs.Baker(R) &Polito(R,Lt.Gov.) vs.
ME: LePage(R) vs.Michaud(D) vs.Cutler(I)
MI: Snyder(R) vs.Schauer(D)
NM: Martinez(R) vs.King(D)
NY: Cuomo(D) &Hochul(D,Lt.Gov.) vs.Astorino(R) vs.Hawkins(G) vs.
OK: Fallin(R) vs.Dorman(D)
PA: Corbett(R) vs.Wolf(D) vs.
Newly-elected 2014:
AK-I: Bill Walker
AR-R: Asa Hutchinson
AZ-R: Doug Ducey
IL-R: Bruce Rauner
MA-R: Charlie Baker
MD-R: Larry Hogan
NE-R: Pete Ricketts
PA-D: Tom Wolf
RI-D: Gina Raimondo
TX-R: Greg Abbott
Up for re-election 2014:
AK-R: Sean Parnell
AL-R: Robert Bentley
CA-D: Jerry Brown
CO-D: John Hickenlooper
CT-D: Dan Malloy
FL-R: Rick Scott
GA-R: Nathan Deal
HI-D: Neil Abercrombie
IA-R: Terry Branstad
ID-R: Butch Otter
IL-D: Pat Quinn
KS-R: Sam Brownback
ME-R: Paul LePage
MI-R: Rick Snyder
MN-D: Mark Dayton
NH-D: Maggie Hassan
NM-R: Susana Martinez
NV-R: Brian Sandoval
NY-D: Andrew Cuomo
OH-R: John Kasich
OK-R: Mary Fallin
OR-D: John Kitzhaber
PA-R: Tom Corbett
SC-R: Nikki Haley
SD-R: Dennis Daugaard
TN-R: Bill Haslam
VT-D: Peter Shumlin
WI-R: Scott Walker
WY-R: Matt Mead
Civil Rights
Foreign Policy
Free Trade
Govt. Reform
Gun Control
Health Care
Homeland Security
Local Issues
Social Security
Tax Reform
Term-Limited or Retiring 2014:
AR-D: Mike Beebe
AZ-R: Jan Brewer
MA-D: Deval Patrick
MD-D: Martin O'Malley
RI-I: Linc Chafee
TX-R: Rick Perry
Contact info:
Email Contact Form
Mailing Address:
Longworth HOB 1408, Washington, DC 20515
Official Website


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The Avery Index to Architectural Periodicals offers a comprehensive listing of journal articles on architecture and design, surveying over seven hundred American and international journals. Also includes publications of professional associations, American state and regional periodicals, and the major serials on architecture and design of Europe, Asia, Latin America, and Australia.
Major areas of coverage include: Archaeology, Architecture, Architectural design, City planing, Furniture and decoration, Historic preservation, History of architecture, Interior design, Landscape architecture, and Urban planning.
Library service desk: 828-262-2820 or Ask a Librarian [1]
Access is restricted to ASU students, faculty, and staff.
Number of simultaneous users: unlimited; Terms of Use [2]


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Tippecanoe River Events
Attention canoers! Get ready for a relaxing journey as you float down the beautiful Tippecanoe River. You must bring your own canoe or make arrangements with the local canoe livery. When you return, you can enjoy the beautiful campground facilities with your group, family or friends.
Camping - See campground maps under MAPS tab
Note: For trail locations, view the property map under the MAPS tab.
1. MODERATE (2.5 miles)—Begins near fire tower parking area or waterfowl parking lot, leads to fire tower, traverses sand hills and marsh area.
2. EASY (3.5 miles)—Begins about .5 mile north on TR2 road. Horses may start from near fire tower road on TR1 road. Leads through oak forest and some open fields. Rises on sand hills.
3. EASY (1.3 miles)—Begins on TR2 north of campground entrance, north to railroad, then returns to park road. Leads through oak forest, pine plantation and open fields. Connects with Trail 2.
4. MODERATE (1.9 miles)—Begins in main picnic area and leads along Oxbow Lagoon, through low river bottoms, along the river and back up into the pines and fields, then back to the campground and to the picnic area.
5. MODERATE (3.5 miles)—Begins north of campground. Covers prairies, river bluffs and oak woods. May be hiked from canoe camp, north of trails 3 and 4 or from group camp or Rent-A-Camp area.
6. MODERATE (2.6 miles)—Begins north of horse camp, crosses main road along marsh up into sand hills. Leads through oak forest and open fields then returns to horse camp.
7. MODERATE (3.2 miles)—Enter from gate, park office or Trail 9. Covers flat woodlands, open fields and pines.
8. MODERATE (1.4 miles)—Begins at Tepicon parking lot and covers Sand Hill Nature Preserve: Prairie grasses and oak woods predominate.
9. MODERATE (1.9 miles)—Begins on west edge of horse camp. Circles west through oak woods and sand hills. Connects to Trail 7.
10. MODERATE (.8 mile)—East of horse camp and day-use area. Circles prairie and sand blow-outs.


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Oberlin to allow guns in city parks
(Oberlin) -- Gun owners will be able to pack heat in Oberlin's city parks.
Oberlin City Council voted 4-3 Monday night to overturn the city's ban on firearms in parks, falling in line with a state law that permits guns in most public places.
Gun rights activists had threatened to sue Oberlin city officials if they didn't revise their law.
Oberlin council members say they'll now petition the Ohio General Assembly and Gov. John Kasich for a law allowing home rule cities like Oberlin to regulate possession of firearms in city parks.
Get breaking news sent to your mobile phone.Text "news" to 21095.
(Copyright 2013 Clear Channel, all rights reserved.)


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Banks' profits up,
revenue down
JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo reported record earnings Friday, but their numbers masked revenue declines. JPMorgan's profit jumped 34 percent, to $6.1 billion, from a year earlier, while revenue slipped 3 percent. At Wells, profit jumped 23 percent, to $4.9 billion, from a year earlier, while revenue slipped 2 percent.
U.S. retail sales
fall in March
Sales at U.S. retailers fell in March from February, indicating that higher taxes and weak hiring probably made some consumers more cautious about spending. Sales declined a seasonally adjusted 0.4 percent last month, the Commerce Department said. That followed a 1 percent gain in February and a 0.1 percent decline in January.
Wholesale prices
drop in March
A measure of wholesale prices fell in last month by the largest amount in 10 months, reflecting a big drop in gasoline prices. The producer price index fell 0.6 percent in March, compared with February, according to the Labor Department. In February, wholesale prices had jumped 0.7 percent.
Inventories up
a bit in February
U.S. companies restocked their shelves at a much slower pace in February than January, a sign they expected consumer and business spending to weaken. Business stockpiles increased only 0.1 percent in February, the smallest gain since June and down from a revised 0.9 percent increase in January, the Commerce Department said.
China escapes
'manipulator' tag
The Obama administration again declined to label China a currency manipulator, but said China's currency remains significantly undervalued. A Treasury Department report noted that China has allowed the renminbi to rise in value against the dollar since June 2010, but said more appreciation is needed.
Housing gains lag
in poorer areas
Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke says housing remains depressed in many low-income neighborhoods, even as the overall home market is making gains. Bernanke urged a broad approach to the problem that seeks to improve housing for lower-income Americans. He said solutions must be tailored to whether a neighborhood is urban, suburban or rural.
Starbucks slashes
bagged coffee prices
Starbucks is cutting the suggested retail price of its bagged coffee sold in supermarkets, following similar moves by competitors. The Seattle-based chain says 12-ounce bags of its whole and ground coffee will be $8.99, down from $9.99. The new prices go into effect May 10. The list price is just a suggestion, and retailers are free to charge their own prices, so customers may not see a change. But retailers will pay a lower price, giving them more wiggle room to pass on the savings to shoppers.