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College football is set to enter its final week, and that means the biggest bowl games are coming up. This weekend will see teams such as Auburn, Oklahoma and Georgia Tech in action. And the first week of 2012 will feature marquee matchups like Oregon vs. Wisconsin, and Oklahoma State against Stanford.
Update at 1 p.m. ET: We'll have a separate preview of the BCS title game between Alabama and LSU later this week. Our original post continues:
Talking about the bowl season with Morning Edition guest host Linda Wertheimer in an interview for Monday's show, NPR's Mike Pesca says he'll be paying particular attention to several upcoming games, including Penn State vs. Houston, and Georgia vs. Michigan State.
"Houston has an amazing offense," Pesca says. "They average over 600 yards a game. And they're scoring about 50 points a game. It is a juggernaut. Of course, these numbers were put up against such teams as the North Texas Mean Green."
And on Monday, Jan. 2, Houston's impressive offense will meet Penn State's stout defense.
In the 2011 season, Penn State's defense has allowed opponents "only 15 points a game — one of the best defenses in the country," Pesca says. "For all the flaws of the bowl system, when you get two teams of such differing types playing against each other, it can be interesting."
Pesca says he'll also watch the Outback Bowl at 1 p.m. ET Monday, which pits Michigan State against Georgia, "just because I think the teams are good, and a little underrated."
Both of those teams finished the season with 10-3 records, having lost in their conference championship games — Michigan State to Wisconsin, and Georgia to No. 1 LSU.
For a complete rundown of this season's bowl games, visit ESPN, which is airing many of the games, or if you prefer a reverse-chronological view, CBS can help. If you want a schedule that's easy to look at on your phone, the Flickr user "encouragement" has posted an image of the 2011-2012 bowl games.
The Rose Bowl will be played at 5 p.m. ET Monday, matching two offensive-minded teams in Oregon against Wisconsin.
"Oregon does it a lot of ways," Pesca says. "They're competent through the air. They have an excellent ground game. And Wisconsin, as Wisconsin usually does, really can pound the ball. And by 'ball,' I mean their running back, Montee Ball. He's a monster on the ground."
In terms of history, Pesca gives Wisconsin a slight edge — Oregon hasn't won the Rose Bowl since 1917, he says.
But once the teams take the field, Pesca says, "perhaps the Oregon offense will have a little easier time with the Wisconsin defense than vice-versa."
Also Monday, the unofficial "Urban Meyer Bowl" kicks off at 1 p.m., when the coach's former team, Florida, meets his squad-in-waiting, Ohio State, in the Gator Bowl.
And when the Fiesta Bowl kicks off at 8:30 p.m. ET on the same day, fans will see one team that missed out on the BCS title game, in 11-1 Oklahoma State, and one player that several NFL teams are hoping they don't miss in the next draft: quarterback Andrew Luck, of 11-1 Stanford.
Oklahoma State has ridden its high-powered offense to a No. 3 ranking, Pesca says, while Stanford has relied on Luck, and a strong defense, to rise to No. 4 in the country.
"So, other than the national championship game, just in terms of rankings, this is the best possible matchup you could get," he says. "And it should be very intriguing."
And part of the draw will be to see how Luck performs in his final college game.
"He's not quite Peyton Manning — I mean, he's only 21, 22 years old," Pesca says. "But he's a master, and he's a craftsman out there on the field. I will definitely be tuning in."
The much-maligned BCS system uses several criteria to determine the top six teams — and which two schools should compete for the BCS title. Part of its formula is based on the USA Today Coaches' Poll.
If you have time before watching your next game, and you're curious about how coaches rated their own school — and, more interestingly, those from rival conferences — you can check out a sortable grid of the coaches' final ballots over at USA Today.
If it seems like there's been a college bowl game every night for two weeks, it's because there has been. And couch potatoes get ready: There are six football games today. NPR's Mike Pesca is here with a preview of some of them. Even Mike can't talk fast enough to get them all.
WERTHEIMER: Mike, welcome.
MIKE PESCA, BYLINE: Hello.
WERTHEIMER: Now, there are some big name college teams playing today: Penn State, Nebraska, Florida, Ohio State. Those are just some of the games, of course. Which match-ups interest you most?
PESCA: I'm looking at Houston and Penn State. Now, let's be clear. Even though I'm talking about Houston, this is not the Houston Bowl, which was later renamed the Texas Bowl, which is now the Meineke Car Care Bowl of Texas. It's not that bowl game.
But this is why I like the Houston-versus-Penn State matchup: Houston has an amazing offense. They average over 600 yards a game, and they're scoring about 50 points a game. It is a juggernaut. Of course, these numbers were put up against such teams as the North Texas Mean Green.
The Penn State team is a much more conventional, solidly constructed Big 10 team, and they allow only 15 points a game, one of the best defenses in the country. And that's the kind of matchup - for all the flaws of the bowl system, when you get two teams of such differing types playing against each other, it can be interesting. I'm going to check out Houston versus Penn State.
And another good early game, just because I think the teams are good and a little underrated: Michigan State versus Georgia. That'll be one I'm watching, too.
WERTHEIMER: OK. So, on to the Rose Bowl. Big 10 champion Wisconsin meets Oregon's high-powered offense. How does that one look?
PESCA: Yes. And Wisconsin has a high-power offense, too. Oregon does it a lot of ways. They're competent through the air. They have an excellent ground game. And Wisconsin, as Wisconsin usually does, really compound the ball - and by ball, I mean their running back Montee Ball. He's a monster on the ground.
PESCA: Wisconsin won the Big 10, thus landing them in the Rose Bowl. Oregon, historically, in the last few years, they've been great. But I would like to point out they haven't won a Rose Bowl since 1917, when they beat the Penn Quakers. Perhaps history gives the edge to Wisconsin, although I think that of all the units - in other words, both teams' offenses and both teams' defenses - perhaps the Oregon offense will have a little easier time with the Wisconsin defense than vice versa.
WERTHEIMER: And the nightcap features a team that some say should be playing in the BCS championship game next week, Oklahoma State. The Cowboys take on Andrew Luck and the Stanford Cardinal in the Fiesta Bowl. What should we watch for?
PESCA: Yeah. And it is Andrew Luck and the Stanford Cardinal, right? Like Martha Ray and the Vandellas. No one remembers who the Vandellas are. And it's a little unfair, because Stanford has a pretty good defense. Oklahoma State doesn't have a good defense, but I was just talking about how great Houston's offense is. Right beneath them is Oklahoma State, and Oklahoma State has done it against much better competition. Oklahoma State is the number three team in the country. Stanford is the number four team in the country. So other than the national championship game, just in terms of rankings, this is the best possible matchup you could get. And fans of the NFL who want to watch perhaps this next future great quarterback, do tune in to see what Andrew Luck does. He's not quite Peyton Manning. I mean, he's only 22 years old. But he's a master and he's a craftsman out there on the field. I will definitely be tuning in.
WERTHEIMER: Mike, we've got to go. But first, the BCS championship game, it takes place next Monday.
PESCA: Yes. And thankfully, they fit it in in 2012, given this expanded, seemingly never-ending bowl season. They will actually play a championship within a week.
WERTHEIMER: Thank you, Mike.
PESCA: You're welcome.
WERTHEIMER: NPR's Mike Pesca. Transcript provided by NPR, Copyright NPR.


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The Liv-ex Fine Wine 50 Index hit 318.95 on Friday, a day after 97% of top Bordeaux was sold at a $1.5 million wine auction in London, according to a Bloomberg report.
The index, which tracks trading in the 10 most-recent vintages of Bordeaux's five first-growths had fallen to a two-and-a-half-year low of 296.77 in November. It went slightly below the 300 mark starting in July but moved to 302.22 in December.
At Christie's International on Thursday, a French wine trader bid 34,500 pounds ($52,622) for a 12-bottle case of Chateau Lafite-Rothschild 1982. This topped 32,200 pounds that a bidder paid for a case of Lafite '82 at an auction run by Sotheby's last January.
The global market for top clarets is improving, at least in part, thanks to buying from China, Bloomberg reports. This demand weakened about 12 months ago..
Overall, the Christie's sale of 408 lots raised more than 960,500 pounds with fees on Thursday —topping an estimate of about 904,100 pounds.
As for champagne, last week's auction wasn't one to celebrate. A case of six bottles of Moet & Chandon's historic 1911 champagne—estimated at 30,000-40,000 pounds—failed to sell, the news service said.
Christie's, however, was most likely pleased with the overall auction's results, which were up about 10% from last year.
In other wine-related news, the co-founders of Nobles Crus, a Luxembourg-based wine fund, have been staunchly defending how the wine in its portfolio is valued, according to a report in Sunday's Financial Times.
The fund had returns of 13.4% return in 2010, 11.3% in 2011; and an 8% return last year, "despite meeting millions of euros in redemptions," the newspaper explained. (The redemptions were reportedly tied to online and other discussions about the fund's valuation methods.)


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A Little Excitement Before the Regular Season Begins
So, everyone's getting really excited about the first Regular Season games starting in just a few hours, right? I mean, we're all getting up extra early, with elaborate brunch, beer and calling in late to work plans so we can watch the games, right? *crickets* Yeah, that about sums it up. While I like the idea of exhibition games in Japan and other countries, I think that having the Mariners and A's play two regular season games there is just ho hum. The timing will always be awkward, both in terms of fitting the games into the Regular Season calendar and in terms of the games themselves taking place at a time when the teams' U.S. fans can easily watch. For this reason, I doubt MLB will ever get teams that are predicted to contend to participate and so what we're left with is just blah. Two games stuck in a weird sort of baseball limbo. They count towards the regular season record, so they're not quite exhibition games. But most folks aren't paying any attention and the games are occurring completely outside the Regular Season calendar, well before the official Opening Day on April 4th, so it's almost as if they aren't really Regular Season games either, leaving me for one wondering, Why bother?
I'll tell you what is exciting though, Magic Johnson buying the Dodgers. Ding Dong, the McCourts are gone. The wicked McCourts are gone! Yes, I root for the Halo'd ones down in Anaheim, but I'm an L.A. girl raised going to games in Chavez Ravine by a Dodger lovin' family. As long as we aren't specifically in the middle of a Freeway Series, I will always have a soft spot for the boys in blue. Besides, I like to think that baseball fans everywhere were rooting for the Dodgers to come out on top of all this – Come on Giants fan cousins of mine, you know you were rooting for them too…come on. Hey. That's not the gesture you really want to be making. Seriously, knock that off right now or I'm telling your mom. See, that's much better. Don't you feel better now? Ummm…never mind. 😉
Anyway, moving right along…Magic Johnson is a shrewd businessman who has managed to create businesses that are simultaneously good for the community, good for local sports and entertainment, and also profitable. And for those of you who don't have a lot of experience with business and politics in L.A., trust me, that's no easy feat. Plus, Magic Johnson has been an L.A. guy by choice since his retirement. I see him as the kind of owner who will cultivate a good team on the field (and it's not like he doesn't have plenty of good players to work with already), while pleasing fans and leaving the important traditions intact. At least, this is what I hope will happen…even though I still hope they lose every single Freeway Series game. Hey, Dodgers soft spot, Angels heart. My goodwill is extensive, but not boundless. 😉
Which brings me to news even more exciting than that: Kendrys is hitting over .600 since his Spring Training debut and continues to see regular playing time, and I saw my first lit Halo of 2012 driving through Anaheim the other night. Okay, so it's only a lit exhibition Halo, but still. Lit. Halo! The Regular Season – the real Regular Season – is so close I can taste it!


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2:32 mins |
You are :
England v Australia: 5th ODI, Adelaide - Australia Innings An excellent bowling effort from England saw Australia restricted to 217-9 after winning the toss and choosing to bat first in Adelaide. Stuart Broad and Ben Stokes took 3 wickets each with George Bailey the only batsman to reach a half century.
England v Australia: 2nd ODI, Brisbane - England innings A century from Eoin Morgan helped England reach 300-8 after choosing to bat first in Brisbane.
England v Australia: 2nd ODI, Brisbane - Australia innings An incredible late fight back led by James Faulkner saw Australia clinch a dramatic one wicket win with three balls to spare
England v Australia: 1st ODI - Melbourne, Australia Innings A century from Aaron Finch helped Australia to a comfortable 6 wicket win in Melbourne
England v Australia: 1st ODI - Melbourne, England Innings England recover from a difficult start to make 269-7 having chosen to bat first in Melbourne
Cook determined to rebuild England Skipper Cook is determined to see a new England emerge from such a disappointing tour
5th Ashes Test, Sydney Day 3 - Evening Australia complete the 3rd 5-0 series whitewash over England.
5th Ashes Test, Sydney Day 3 - Afternoon Australia close in on an Ashes whitewash after reducing England to 87-3, still 361 runs short of victory.
5th Ashes Test, Sydney Day 3 - Morning Chris Rogers hits a superb ton as Australia's lead moves passed 400.
5th Ashes Test, Sydney Day 2 - Afternoon Australia strengthen their grip on the 5th Test by bowling England out for 155.
5th Ashes Test, Sydney Day 2 - Evening Australia press home their advantage and reach 140-4 at stumps on day two, a lead of 311
5th Ashes Test, Sydney Day 2 - Morning Australia's seamers run through England's top order to leave the tourists 61-5 at lunch.
5th Ashes Test, Sydney - Day 1 Morning Australia lose regular wickets on the first morning, reaching 94-4 at Lunch
5th Ashes Test, Sydney - Day 1 Evening England are 7-1 after Steve Smith's century guided Australia to 326 all out.
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Quote:We did have a while back a post similar, that was to show the progress of MikeMartial when he tried Tom Kurz's technique.I remember that post and I actually looked on it again yesterday before I posted this one to see if there was any new reply's etc. I was sad to see there wasn't as I had followed it with much interest! I've actually PM'd him about it, does anyone know if he still comes on here? I'm really pleased you guys are in favour of it though!! Bad timing I guess tho cos I'm off to Spain for 5 days as of tonight but when I get back I promise to post my stretching routine (which incidentally is also using the Kurtz method) and we can all be stretch buddies!! I'm in it for the long hall, I think success breeds success, so when we start to reap the benefits of regular stretching there will be no stopping us!Thanks all,Ross
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text: Wednesday, December 26, 2012 Be a Part of APTA's 'Fit After 50' Initiative Are you helping patients who are aged 50 or older to maintain their fitness and mobility? Are you a PT or PTA aged 50+ who is "walking the walk" by staying active and mobile as you age? If the answer is "yes" to either of these questions, APTA wants to hear from you. E-mail email@example.com with a brief description, and we'll arrange a brief video recording of you while you are at the Combined Sections Meeting to post on www.apta.org/FitAfter50. Comments I'm 55 and a former high school and college athlete trying to walk the talk. I'm also a GCS working in Home Health so I see the consequences firsthand! Hope I can help with the initiative. Posted by Judy Thackaberry on 12/26/2012 7:05 PM I may not be 50 yet but I'm getting close...I'm orthopedic pt practicing for about 10 years and I'm 40...I see first hand the effects of aging and how to prevent further complications as we all get older...I'm a strength and fitness enthusiast....I would love to help in anyway I can to promote your fit after 50 campaign... Posted by Isaac Maldonado -> ?OV\DH on 12/27/2012 8:16 AM I am 55 years old. A practicing physical therapist for 33 years. Private Practice owner who works with many clients on fitness after 50 assisting them to achieve their wellness goals. Posted by Thomas Cooney DPT on 12/28/2012 2:17 PM I am 61 and a pediatric PT - now teaching in a PTA program because of my osteoartritic knees. I found that I gained 10 lbs. in the last 18 mos and could hardly walk up/down stairs and my tennis was getting worse. As of 12/26, cortisone in my left knee is making it pain free, now able to restart ex program, now on swimming 4-5 days a week program, and will continue a PTA Club Clinic for Faculty and Staff in the PTA Movement Lab 2 days a week to promote "Fit after 50". Happy New Year! Posted by Bunny May on 12/28/2012 2:20 PM I am 52 years old. I have been a Physical Therapist who, for 30 + years professionally and 13 years scholastically, has walked the walk. I am recently diagnosed with; Gr 1 L5-S1 retro spondylothesis, as well as, herniated discs mild L4-L5, moderate L5-S1, This requiring, so far, 1 course of oral Prednisone taper, 1 spinal injection and 2nd pending. I am hopeful to avoid surgery, but symptoms have not resolved as yet.These symptoms include severe radicular pain 10/10, as well as early sensory and motor involvement. I am unable to walk let alone work due to severity of symptoms. I have been active all my life running/jogging, conditioning, skiing, skating and the like. I am having extreme difficulty with the changes that have occurred over the past 2 months, yet, I remain hopeful. I will continue to walk the walk. It will take a considerable time to improve. I need to change my perspective and accept that I have now become a patient (not the first time with history of: Cervical C6-7 DJD, Fx Lt Radius requiring ORIF, and torn Rt UCL). These events occurring or worsening over the course of the past 2 years. To say the least entering the 50's has been a tough experience. I will keep you posted as to my progress over the next few months. The downside of this experience being all the physical involvement, pain and limitation, the upside is a vastly improved perspective as to how the many patients I have treated, over a 30+ year history as a PT, have felt and suffered. Posted by Kaethe A Flynn on 12/28/2012 7:14 PM I'm practicing at 62years old in a community hospital outpatient setting. I completed my CEEAA as I have mainly a geriatric population. I run 3x a week, swim 2 x a week and do yoga class 2x a week. I tell my patients I will not ask them to do anything I don't or can't do! Posted by Jinx O'Loughlin on 12/28/2012 8:56 PM I have been practicing physical therapy for 50 yrs and continue to work part-time in semi-retirement, specializing in orthopedic and geriatric therapy. At 73, I certainly qualify as a senior and have been a devoted gym rat for 55 yrs. Always combining fitness with physical therapy practice, I try to encourage and direct patients toward continuing a physically active lifestyle. I am particularly proud to exercise along side of patients 70 and over who joined the fitness centers where I work out regularly. I have always utilized different activities in my training as the emphasis upon cross training became popular. Playing racquetball for 40 yrs, as well as mixing in biking, weight-training, hiking, and yoga - the principle of cross training has worked well for me. Over the years of my exercise mania, if one activity became uncomfortable due to injury or over-use, there was another I could continue without aggravation of the injury etc. As many PTs do, I use the "mix and match" movement/exercise principle in designing in-clinic and home programs for patients. Scientific and research-proven exercise data has been the constant in my practice. Posted by Herschel Budlow P.T. on 12/28/2012 11:04 PM Staying fit is important and possible at any age, it just gets a little harder as we get older. I have had a busy private practice for approx. 25 years, treating and assisting all ages and fitness levels. I am 50 and continue to participate in multiple running races of various distances including ultraendurance races of 100 miles. I certainly support this initiative. Posted by Scott Winkler PT,DPT on 12/29/2012 12:28 AM Acute Care beats up your body through repetitive lifting and moving. Every day I train my body for the physical requirements of this job. I'm 65 and work/compete along side PT's more than half my age and CI DPT students annually. I lead by example, experience and a commitment to learning and evidence. Working with the next generation keeps my mind invigorated. When I walk in the patient's room for the first time they look at me and frequently say: "You must be the PT". Posted by Guy Rudawski, PT on 12/29/2012 8:38 AM To all of the patients and clients whose lives I have been able to bless. May you continue to stay active, healthy, and enjoy your exercise and the company of a physical therapist. Posted by Heidi Harris on 12/29/2012 1:21 PM I am a PTA student nearing the end of my program, at 46. I am encouraged and energized by these comments. I just finished a clinical at a SNF which galvanized my commitment to preventive medicine, my personal fitness and pt education. Posted by Molly Keogh, SPTA on 12/30/2012 10:49 AM When I receive the DPT degree in August, 2013, I will be 55 years old and I will be just beginning my career in physical therapy. I know that staying fit is not only necessary in order to be able to practice for many years to come, but is also important as I seek to treat and motivate others. I have maintained an active lifestyle since high school and my fitness regimine includes running, yoga, and strength training. I have never had a problem keeping up with classmates half my age and like to think I am a good role model, demonstrating the value of maintaining a focus on fitness throughout your life. I look forward to applying my philosophy and skills to helping older patients maintain their mobility and independence. Posted by Debra Frisch, SPT on 1/2/2013 7:05 AM I am 59 and still going strong. I have always felt that I must stay in good shape to be an example to my patients. I exercise regularly and work with the pediatric population in a school system, which keeps me active. I do find that there are certain things I can no longer do, like heavy lifts, but I modify and ask for help when needed. Some things just can't be avoided as we age, but we can age gracefully with a positive attitude. Posted by Karen Zylstra on 1/4/2013 5:33 PM Well I am now 55 years old and have worked as a therapist for over 30 years. Presently I work in an outpatient orthopedic clinic and continuely see the benefits of educating people over 50 to become and stay active. Alot of the patients I see have undergone either hip or knee arthroplasties and now need to understand how to return to a more normal activity level. We also have a medical fitness center that is a fantastic way to encourage people on their way back to a active lifestyle I hope I believe I am a good role model for them since I do workout at least 5 days per work to stay physcially fit. This initiative is a great one and one I would very much support! Posted by Scott Foster, DPT, OCS on 1/4/2013 5:52 PM I have been a PT since 1974, a breast cancer survivor since 1995 and 2012. At 72, I am working 15+ hours/wk w/ lymphedema patients only, in a wound clinic. My co-workers see the wound patients, the ones who have been coming for years due to decreased healing. We encourage all of our patients to be more functional and active by example and w/ instructions. As difficult as it is for me to exercise after a day of work, my husband and I do indeed attempt to walk our neighborhood and/or work out in our little local gym. Posted by Susan Allen PT on 1/4/2013 6:29 PM At 59, I still feel great. My entire career has been in pediatrics for 30+ years. I maintain a healthy weight, eat right and have fun exercising. Boot camp at a fellow PT practice keeps me challenged so I enjoy cross country skiing, downhill skiing, hiking, stand up paddle boarding - anything outdoors! What a great initiative! Posted by Lori Woodruff on 1/11/2013 8:08 PM I have been a PT since 1975. I completed my Master's in 1983. Along with working full-time and trying to complete my Master's thesis I discovered running. If I found time to run, I had more energy in the evening to complete my projects. Fast Forward to my 50th birthday. I ran a 50 mile race a week later. I still run and cycle and do yoga (something every day). I am planning a metric century bike ride (62 miles) for my 60th birthday near the end of this year.I do want to comment on the abuse our bodies take as a PT...nowhere in the healthcare system is this reality acknowledged. If you have applied for a new position in the last few years, you may have encountered a document that is presented as a "job description" for PT's. It completely underestimates the physical toll on a PT. If I remember correctly, it says something along the lines of" "lifts 25# on a regular basis and 50# occasionally" Now, if you work in acute care, rehab or SNF, what part of the deadweight patient you are expected to get walking is only 50#? I discovered the repetitive nature of our tasks when I had an acute bilateral extensor tendonitis episode. Do you realize how often we pinch, grip or hold (think ultrasound head) during the course of our workday? Since no one else will acknowledge this, I am here to provide a wake-up call to younger therapists: apply the advice you give to your patients to yourself. If it is unsafe to lift a patient DON'T. Your employer (and the patient) will not be there in your later years when you have chronic issues.With reduced reimbursements the pressure is on to do more with less support. This is the wrong direction, and I strongly recommend we draw a line in the sand. If we just go along, the limits will continue to be pushed. YOU ARE WORTH IT! Advocate for yourself as strongly as we all do for our patients! Posted by Joyce Adams, MSPT on 1/25/2013 2:39 PM


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Related Terms
- Breast Pain, Cyclic
- Breast Tenderness, Cyclic
- Cyclic Mastitis
- Fibrocystic Breast Disease
Principal Proposed Natural Treatments
Other Proposed Natural Treatments
Some women's breasts are unusually tender and lumpy, with symptoms of pain and dull heaviness that vary with the menstrual cycle. This condition is called cyclic mastalgia or cyclic mastitis and is often associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS). When the lumps become significant enough to be called cysts, the condition is called fibrocystic breast disease.
Besides discomfort, perhaps the worst problem of this condition is that it can mimic the appearance of breast cancer on mammograms, leading to false alarms. To make matters worse, fibrocystic changes can also hide true cancers, and some evidence hints that women with fibrocystic breast disease may also have a greater tendency toward breast cancer.
The cause of cyclic breast pain is unclear. One theory, popular in Europe, suggests that higher than normal levels of the hormone prolactin may be involved. 18 Another theory attributes the condition to an imbalance of essential fatty acids. 1
Conventional treatment for cyclic mastalgia involves anti-inflammatory medications and, sometimes, hormonal treatments.
Principal Proposed Natural Treatments
Cyclic mastalgia often occurs in connection with PMS .
In Germany, the herb chasteberry is frequently used to treat cyclic mastalgia and other symptoms of PMS because of its effect on the pituitary gland to suppress the release of prolactin. 7-9
Some evidence suggests that it is, in fact, effective for this purpose. For example, a double-blind trial of 104 women compared placebo against two forms of chasteberry (liquid and tablet) for at least three menstrual cycles. 11 The results showed statistically significant and comparable improvements in the treated groups as compared to placebo.
Another double-blind, placebo-controlled study, enrolling 178 women, evaluated chasteberry for PMS in general. 13 The results over three menstrual cycles indicated that chasteberry reduced breast tenderness and other PMS symptoms. Benefits were also seen in two other double-blind trials enrolling a total of more than 250 women. 10,12
For more information, including dosage and safety issues, see the full Chasteberry article.
Although the herb ginkgo is primarily used to enhance memory and mental function (see the article on Alzheimer's disease ), it may be helpful for breast tenderness as well. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study evaluated 143 women with PMS symptoms, 18 to 45 years of age, and followed them for two menstrual cycles. 16 Each woman received either the ginkgo extract (80 mg twice daily) or placebo on day 16 of the first cycle. Treatment was continued until day 5 of the next cycle and resumed again on day 16 of that cycle.
As compared to placebo, ginkgo significantly relieved major symptoms of PMS, especially breast pain.
For more information, including dosage and safety issues, see the full Ginkgo article.
Other Proposed Natural Treatments
Evening primrose oil contains relatively high concentrations of the essential omega-6 fatty acid named gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). On the theory that essential fatty acid imbalances play a role in cyclic mastalgia, evening primrose oil became a popular treatment for this condition. However, despite numerous positive anecdotes, there are considerable doubts regarding whether it is actually effective. The main supporting evidence for GLA comes from three small double-blind studies. 3,19,20 Unfortunately, all of these suffered from significant limitations in study design and reporting. A very large (555-participant) and well-designed study failed to find GLA, with or without antioxidants, any more effective than placebo. 24 (The placebo by itself, however, was found to be quite effective, possibly explaining why so many doctors and patients believe that evening primrose oil is helpful.) Another well-designed study found that evening primrose oil, by itself or with fish oil , is not more effective than placebo for cyclic breast pain. 21 And another randomized trial involving 85 women also failed to find evening primose (alone or with vitamin E ) to be helpful in reducing breast pain. 27 Other studies found evening primrose oil ineffective for established breast cysts. 4,5,22
Fish oil taken alone has, thus far, failed to prove effective for cyclic breast pain.
According to one small double-blind trial, the substance diindolylmethane (DIM) might be helpful for cyclic mastalgia. 26
A small and poorly reported double-blind, placebo-controlled trial provides weak evidence that red clover isoflavones might reduce symptoms of cyclic mastalgia. 17 Another small study suggests possible benefit with soy protein. 25
Very weak evidence suggests the supplement iodine may also be helpful for cyclic mastalgia. 23
Like chasteberry, the herb bugleweed appears to reduce prolactin levels and, for this reason, has also been tried for the treatment of cyclic mastalgia. However, this herb affects the thyroid gland, and we do not recommend it.
Finally, many conventional and alternative practitioners suggest avoiding caffeine. However, despite the popularity of this intervention, there is no consistent evidence that caffeine really causes a problem. 23
Revision Information
- Reviewer: EBSCO CAM Review Board
- Review Date: 12/2015 -
- Update Date: 12/15/2015 -


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|The good ole classic All American Burger to me means a good ground chuck beef burger, pickles, tomato, grilled onion, mayo, mustard and ketchup on a toasted bun & topped with bacon and cheese, if you like.
All American BurgerSaturday was a gardening day so supper had to be simple. Grilled burgers and southern style potato salad. Grilled corn on the cob would be good too, but we just had that the night before {and yeah, I know, that's a lot of starches} so I settled on the burger and tater salad and it was plenty. Oh, well, there might have been a bit of leftover banana pudding involved there too.
Since I've previously put up posts for a classic onion burger and my pepper jack stuffed burger, I thought I'd do a post for what I consider to be a basic, all American burger. Nothing fancy or outrageous here, just a simple, classic, ground beef burger with a light brushing of butter, a sprinkle of salt and pepper, and dressed with mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickles, tomato and lettuce all on a toasted bun. Throw a little cheese on there, and you've got your classic cheeseburger. Add some bacon, and you got yourself a nice bacon cheeseburger. Ain't nothin' wrong with that!
I didn't get a photo of the buns, but use the melted butter to brush the insides on all of the buns first, reserving the leftover butter. Stick them back together and back into the bag or just wrap them up in something; set aside. Cut the onion into about 1/2-inch thick rings. Shape the burger patties - but take care not to manhandle them. You really want to just gently press them down and shape around the edges without handling them too much. Over handling ground beef will rob your burger of it's tender juiciness and toughen it, so just sort of push the ground beef gently into a patty shape, about 4 inches across. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty.
Brush the burgers and the onion slices very lightly with some of the remaining melted butter, but only on the top side. Sprinkle the burgers and the onions with salt and pepper on that same side. Reserve the rest of the butter for when you turn the burgers.
Oil the grill grates and put the burgers on the grill, indented and buttered side down, and grill for about 4 minutes. Do the onions off on the side, checking and turning those as they brown. Brush the remaining butter and add salt and pepper to the top side of the burgers and turn them to finish cooking. Toast the buns on the top rack of the grill if you have one, if not, grill them on the grates themselves, but it'll only take seconds so keep an eye on them.
Don't press on the burgers as they cook - just resist the urge! That'll compact them and press out all those nice juices that help to keep your burger moist. Once they're ready, to build an all American burger, first brush both sides of the bun with a light layer of mayonnaise. Did you know that the fat contained in the mayo when spread on the bottom bun, forms a barrier that helps to keep the bun from absorbing juices from the burger and going soggy on ya?
Add a grilled burger, then ketchup and mustard.
Couple slices of pickles - I am totally digging these Wickles pickles I recently discovered - sort of a sweet and spicy, garlicy pickle - just perfect for burgers - though I have admittedly snacked on most of them right out of the jar. As a matter of fact, they would have been pretty darned good in that potato salad I'll bet... that is, had there been enough of them left for me to use. A product of Alabama, I found them at my local Rouses market. Mmmmm.... so good, and yes. I am now hooked on them. But back to the burger... top that with a thick slice of tomato.
Add a chunk of lettuce - romaine is usually what we have in the house - but use iceberg, or whatever you like or have. Add the top of the bun and a side of southern style potato salad, and devour. Ooops! I forgot the grilled onion!
Oh no I di'nt!!
Now that ladies and gents, is what I'm talkin' about! Heellllooooo lover.
Recipe: All American Burger©From the Kitchen of Deep South Dish
Prep time: 10 min |Cook time: 15 min | Yield: 6 burgers
Condiments and Dressing:
- 12 slices of cooked bacon,(2 slices per burger), optional
- 6 hamburger buns
- 2 pounds of ground chuck
- 2 tablespoons of butter, melted
- Seasoning salt or plain kosher salt
- Fresh cracked black pepper
- 1 large Vidalia or yellow onion, optional
- Sliced sharp cheddar cheese, white or yellow American, Swiss or your favorite cheese, optional
- Mayonnaise
- Ketchup
- Mustard
- Sliced dill or sweet pickles
- Thick sliced tomato
- Lettuce
Preheat the grill to high. Cook the bacon until crisp, drain on paper towels and set aside. Brush the inside of the buns with the melted butter, stack back together and wrap to keep fresh. Set aside and reserve the remaining butter. Divide the meat evenly into 6 even balls, and handling as little as possible, shape into equal sized patties. Make a slight indentation in the top and brush the top of the meat patties lightly with the remaining melted butter; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cut onion into 6 thick slices, keeping the rings intact.
Oil the grill grate. Place the burgers, indented butter side side, and the onions on the hot grill and grill with the lid open for about 4 minutes. Place the buns, butter side down, on the top rack. Brush the other side of the burger with the butter, sprinkle with salt and pepper and turn, cooking for another 4-5 minutes for medium, or until done. For a cheeseburger, cook 4 minutes, flip the burger, grill for about 2 minutes, add the cheese, close the lid on the grill, and continue cooking for 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and burger cooked.
Add mayonnaise on both sides of the bun. Add burger to bottom bun and top with ketchup, mustard, pickles, one of the grilled onions, a thick slice of tomato, and lettuce. Serve with a side of potato salad and some grilled corn on the cob. Devour.
Cook's Notes: I think that ground chuck is the best option for a great burger. It has 20% fat, and, unless you overcook it, produces a nice, juicy burger. You can use a leaner beef, however, it does cook faster than a higher fat burger, so check it early to ensure that you do not overcook it. Consider some add-ins for moisture - steak sauces, barbecue sauce, evenly finely minced veggies, can help. The freshest and best ground chuck for burgers comes from purchasing a roast and having the butcher at your store grind it for you. The bonus for grinding your own beef, is that you can know that it is safe to cook your burger more to a medium rather than having to cook it well done.
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Other Proposed Uses
The dried inner bark of the slippery-elm tree was a favorite of many Native American tribes, and was subsequently adopted by European colonists. Like marshmallow and mullein , slippery elm was used as a treatment for sore throat, coughs, dryness of the lungs, inflammation of the skin inflammations, wounds, and irritation of the digestive tract. 1 It was also made into a kind of porridge to be taken by weaned infants and during convalescence from illness: various heroes of the Civil War are said to have credited slippery elm with their recovery from war wounds.
What Is Slippery Elm Used for Today?
Slippery elm has not been scientifically studied to any significant extent. It's primarily used today as a cough lozenge, widely available in pharmacies. Based on its soothing properties, slippery elm is also sometimes recommended for treating irritable bowel syndrome , inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis ), gastritis , esophageal reflux (heartburn), and hemorrhoids . However, there is no meaningful evidence that it is helpful for any of these conditions.
Suck cough lozenges as needed. For internal use, a typical dose is 500 to 1,000 mg of 3 times daily.
Safety Issues
Other than occasional allergic reactions, slippery elm has not been associated with any toxicity. However, its safety has never been formally studied. Safety in young children, pregnant or nursing women, or those with severe liver or kidney disease has not been established.
Revision Information
- Reviewer: EBSCO CAM Review Board
- Review Date: 12/2015 -
- Update Date: 12/15/2015 -


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Parliamentary sitting calendar
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The Procedure Office provides a range of advisory, support and information services closely aligned with the role and work of the Senate.
The office directly supports the parliamentary work of senators by providing procedural advice and support; and drafting legislative amendments and private senators' bills. It also provides secretariats for the Senate's legislative scrutiny committees, the Regulations and Ordinances Committee and the Scrutiny of Bills Committee, which examine bills and legislative instruments against certain rights and accountability criteria.
The Research Section develops, manages and delivers publications, resources and programs which inform a wide range of audiences about the role and operations of the Senate and the Parliament.
The Parliamentary Education Office (PEO) produces educational programs and resources—including experiential learning programs, publications and a multi-modal website—for school students, teachers and others.
The Procedure Office is led by the Clerk Assistant (Procedure) and has four functional areas, as shown in figure 11.
The full-time equivalent staffing level for the Procedure Office in 2009–10 was 33 (34 in 2008–09).
The cost of providing the services of the Procedure Office in 2009–10 was $5.8 million ($6.1 million in 2008–09).
In 2009–10, the office assisted non-government senators and their staff by providing procedural advice relating to the role and work of the Senate and its committees. There was strong demand for such advice, particularly during sitting periods. Topics for advice generally revolved around the requirements of Senate procedure, but also ranged more broadly to include, for instance, the elements of the 'deadlock' provisions in section 57 of the Constitution; precedents for calling witnesses before Senate committees; and the options for the revival of regulations disallowed by the Senate.
Staff of the office ensured the accuracy of advice by consulting other departmental officers—principally the Clerk and Deputy Clerk—and researching appropriate precedents. In keeping with parliamentary service values, advice was non-partisan, consistent and provided to senators and their staff in a timely fashion.
In 2009–10, the office prepared an average of eight procedural scripts per sitting day for senators' use in the chamber and elsewhere. This was higher than the 2008–09 average of seven scripts per day, but consistent with the average in 2007–08. The scripts typically related to procedural matters, such as disallowance motions; orders for the production of documents; and proposals to refer matters to committees.
The office also routinely responded to requests, from senators and their staff, to check material for procedural accuracy. Advice on these requests was accurate and provided in time to enable senators to use the material in the Senate and elsewhere.
In 2009–10, the office provided legislative support to senators' work by drafting amendments to bills and drafting private senators' bills, in response to instructions from senators and their staff.
This work was undertaken primarily for non-government senators, but a small number of backbench government senators also used these services. Occasionally, the office drew up amendments to inform committee processes and demonstrate the means of implementing committee recommendations.
The office drafted and circulated 139 sets of 'committee of the whole' amendments, containing 476 individual amendments—these are amendments proposed to the text of bills dealt with by the Senate. Although the number of circulated amendments is low compared with 2008–09 (see table 2), the office also drafted more than 630 amendments that were not circulated, because they related to bills not dealt with by the Senate in 2009–10 or because they were drafted for use outside the chamber—to inform negotiations between parties, for instance. The amendments produced for government senators fell into this category.
Where amendments were framed as requests to the House of Representatives, in accordance with section 53 of the Constitution, the office also produced statements explaining the applicability of section 53 and the precedents of the Senate. This ensured senators were able to meet procedural requirements and demonstrate that their amendments were constitutionally sound.
The office also prepared and circulated 29 'second reading' amendments—these are proposed resolutions which comment on or affect the passage of bills, but do not propose specific changes to the text of bills.
Despite the unpredictable levels of demand created by the concentration of legislative work within a small number of sitting weeks, the office met all timeframes for the production of amendments.
Private senators' bills continued to be used as vehicles for non-government parties and individual senators to put down policy footprints and advance debate across areas of interest. In 2009–10, the office drafted:
A number of other bills were drafted to different stages of development, for introduction at a later date or for use by senators outside the chamber.
Table 2 summarises senators' use of the office's legislative drafting and procedural services over the past four reporting periods.
Together these services form a substantial part of the support provided by the department to the legislative work of senators and the Senate. The biennial senators' survey has consistently found that senators report high to very high levels of satisfaction with these services. Informal feedback confirmed that this was the case in 2009–10.
During the year, the office provided secretariat, research and administrative support to the Regulations and Ordinances Committee and the Scrutiny of Bills Committee, assisting them to fulfil their responsibilities in accordance with the Standing Orders.
The committees examine all bills and disallowable instruments within their terms of reference. In 2009–10:
The reduction in the number of instruments processed by the Regulations and Ordinances Committee secretariat reflects changes to the civil aviation legislative framework that resulted in a significant reduction in the number of airworthiness directives made.
The secretariats, assisted by the committees' legal advisers, completed the necessary administrative tasks to enable the committees to undertake their work. The legal adviser position for the Scrutiny of Bills Committee was vacant from January 2010 until mid-April 2010, during which time the secretariat undertook the adviser's workload.
The secretariats also prepared material arising out of the work of the committees, for use in the Senate chamber and for publication elsewhere. This included preparation and verification of disallowance notices, and publication of:
In anticipation of its 30th anniversary in 2011, the Scrutiny of Bills Committee commenced an inquiry into its future role and direction. Information about the inquiry is available on the committee's website.
Staff from both secretariats briefed several international delegations about the role and operations of the Senate legislative scrutiny committees, and conducted a training seminar for public servants. In May 2010, staff from the Regulations and Ordinances Committee secretariat introduced a new training seminar for public servants on delegated legislation and the Senate.
The legislative scrutiny committees hosted the biennial Australia–New Zealand Scrutiny of Legislation Conference on 6–8 July 2009. The conference, opened by the Chief Justice of the High Court of Australia, the Hon. Robert French, explored the theme of 'Scrutiny and Accountability in the 21st Century'. Staff from the secretariats organised the event and supported the 76 delegates representing legislative scrutiny committees in Australia, New Zealand and Canada.
In 2009–10, the Research Section:
The aim of these programs is to ensure that senators and their staff are supported in their legislative work, and that other audiences are able to develop appropriate levels of knowledge and awareness of the Senate and its work.
The office also responded in a timely manner to requests for information and research support from a range of sources, including senators; the Clerk, Deputy Clerk and Clerks Assistant; and members of parliamentary associations, the academic community and the general public.
During 2009–10, training and information programs were offered to senators' staff in the form of one-on-one sessions and group seminars, delivered by senior officers, explaining the operations and procedures of the Senate and its committees.
The department's seminar series continued to provide members of the public service and others with comprehensive training in the operations of the Senate and its committees, and the accountability to parliament of the executive and government departments and agencies. During 2009–10, a total of 1,260 people attended 35 seminars.
The seminar series remained an integral part of graduate training programs in the public service. A large number of graduates enrolled in the full-day 'Introduction to the Senate' seminar, and the range of half-day seminars was also well received. Senior officers of the department also conducted half-day sessions for Senior Executive Service officers.
The section organised seminars tailored to the needs of individual government departments and other interested groups, including the Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs; the Department of Finance and Deregulation; the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet; the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts; AusAID; the Law Council of Australia; the Defence and Industry Study Course; the Rural Leadership Program; and a group of Indigenous graduates.
During 2009–10, the section arranged eight lunchtime lectures as part of the popular occasional lecture series. Topics ranged from the rise of new forms of media and the erosion of democracy, to the political life of former Prime Minister the Rt Hon. Andrew Fisher. The series also featured a reflection by the then Clerk of the Senate, Harry Evans, on changes in the parliamentary institution during his long association with the Senate.
The department published lecture transcripts in its free journal Papers on Parliament and made audio recordings available on its website. Lectures were filmed and broadcast on television and the internet by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation and the Australian Public Affairs Channel, increasing the audience for, and accessibility of, the lectures.
The Research Section edited and published three editions of Papers on Parliament during 2009–10:
In December 2009, the section published an illustrated booklet, The President of the Senate, which provides an overview of the role and function of the President, including how the President is elected, and some information on past presidents.
The editing, proofreading and indexing of volume 3 of The Biographical Dictionary of the Australian Senate was completed in early May 2010. This volume, covering senators and clerks who left the Senate between 1962 and 1983, is expected to be published in August 2010. Work has commenced on volume 4, covering senators whose terms ended between 1983 and 2002. Authors have been found for all 109 entries proposed for volume 4, and 38 entries have been received. The section also began preparing for the online publication of the dictionary.
The section also launched a new Senate essay prize named in honour of the first President of the Senate, the Hon. Sir Richard Baker. The prize, which was advertised widely in the print media, is open to secondary school students enrolled in years 10 to 12. It is to be awarded annually to the best student essay in each state and territory on a topic that promotes knowledge of the Senate and its work. A panel of senators selected five winning essays in 2009–10. The authors each received $500 and a certificate.
The section continued to issue a range of free publications aimed at raising awareness of the Senate and parliamentary processes. Details of the publications available in 2009–10 are provided in appendix 4.
The first part of a new exhibition in the first floor public exhibition area of Parliament House, 'Acting Wisely: The Work of the Australian Parliament', was completed in February 2009.
In August 2009, as the culmination of a coordinated effort between the section and the Department of Parliamentary Services, the Parliament's copy of Magna Carta was incorporated into the 'Acting Wisely' exhibition. The copy was moved from its former location in the Members' Hall to a purpose-built case within the exhibition, with improved lighting, security and interpretive text. The exhibition, which has been enthusiastically received, was officially opened by the President of the Senate in September 2009.
The section also published a booklet entitled Australia's Magna Carta, to complement the exhibition. The booklet chronicles the story of how the manuscript came into the Parliament's possession, and includes an account of the preservation work carried out on the manuscript by scientists from the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation.
Elements of the first stage of 'Acting Wisely', which deals with the Parliament's legislative function, were made available to a wider audience as the 'Making Laws' online exhibition. This followed the publication in July 2009 of an online version of the earlier 'For Peace, Order and Good Government' exhibition.
Work has commenced on the next stages of the 'Acting Wisely' exhibition, on representation and accountability, which will also be produced in both physical and online versions.
In December 2009, the section arranged the installation of an interactive 'Meet Your Senator' touch screen near the senators' portraits in the first floor public area. Together with a similar device in place for the House of Representatives, the screen provides visitors with an engaging and user-friendly introduction to all current senators and members of parliament.
The department runs the Australian National Internships Program in partnership with the Australian National University. During 2009–10, 39 students completed parliamentary internships and 34 students were placed in other departments and agencies. Interns continued to see Parliament House as an outstanding placement. The office coordinated an induction seminar for each group of interns, and organised some of the functions associated with the program.
The department also continued to play an active role in the Strengthening Parliamentary Institutions research program, which is funded by the Australian Research Council and run by the Parliamentary Studies Centre at the Australian National University. Senate officers participated in workshops which provided feedback to authors who had submitted papers for publication.
In November 2009, the department co-hosted a conference on ethics and integrity in parliament, as part of the research program. The conference investigated the system of self-regulation used in Australia and the integrity systems used in other countries.
During 2009–10, the PEO delivered an extensive range of high-quality educational services to schools, teachers and students.
Through its Education Centre, the PEO delivers an experiential learning program involving simulations of chamber and committee proceedings of the House of Representatives and the Senate, for students visiting Parliament House.
Through its outreach program, the PEO provides other opportunities for students and teachers to learn about the Parliament. By analysing a range of data, the PEO is able to target students and organisations less able to undertake Parliament House-based programs. To support this strategy, the PEO produces materials and resources on its website, on CD and in print.
The PEO also undertakes joint ventures, builds professional networks and invests in a range of training and development activities for teachers and trainee teachers. In addition, the PEO monitors curriculum developments in the area of civics education.
During 2009–10, the PEO continued to work with and report progress to the PEO Advisory Committee and worked closely with relevant stakeholders in the other parliamentary departments, government departments and educational institutions.
Experiential role-playing programs are conducted at the Education Centre at Parliament House during the school term. Role-play programs were delivered to 91,648 students in 2,622 groups during 2009–10.
Current programs focus on four key functions of the Parliament. Evaluation of Education Centre activities has revealed an evolving demand among teacher and student groups to explore the work of the Parliament in greater depth. In 2009–10, the PEO began revising its programs to meet that demand.
The Impressive Teachers Scheme was also introduced during the year, to identify highly motivated teachers who are interested in further exploring the work of the Parliament, and to invite them to develop a professional relationship with the PEO. By affirming achievement and interest, the PEO hopes to gain partners to foster the work of parliamentary education and to encourage others to be similarly committed. The program is expected to provide opportunities for resource trialling, surveying, outreach visits and professional assistance.
Figures 12 and 13 demonstrate that Education Centre attendances continued to grow in 2009–10. However, there is only limited scope for future growth, as the education facilities at Parliament House are operating at or near capacity. Some success has been achieved in encouraging schools to visit earlier in the school year when the demand for PEO education programs is lower.
Figure 12 Students who visited the PEO Education Centre, 2005–06 to 2009–10
Text description of figure 12
Figure 13 School groups that visited the PEO Education Centre, 2005–06 to 2009–10
Text description of figure 13
Only a small percentage of Australian students are able to make the trip to Parliament House to participate in Education Centre programs. As a result, an important part of the PEO's mission is to provide educational resources for those students and teachers who cannot make the trip to Canberra.
One popular program involves conducting outreach activities across the country, taking the parliamentary role-play and other educational activities 'on the road'. Senators and members often welcome the opportunity to participate when this program is delivered to schools in their electorates.
A wide geographical spread of outreach activities has been achieved in recent years. In 2009–10, the PEO conducted outreach activities in the locations shown in table 3.
Plans to deliver outreach activities in regional New South Wales and Victoria and in Tasmania during September and October 2010 have been confirmed, and preliminary planning for visits to several other regions during 2010–11 has commenced. Figure 14 shows the geographical spread of outreach activities in the five calendar years from 2007 to 2011, including possible outreach locations in 2010–11.
Figure 14 Locations of PEO outreach activities, 2007 to 2011
To better address the parliamentary education needs of all students and teachers, particularly those who are unable to travel to Canberra, the PEO devotes considerable resources to expanding the range and quality of its online and multimedia services and resources, as well as its capacity to produce quality educational resources in multiple formats.
During the year, the PEO commenced:
The PEO also continued to produce and update the educational materials detailed in appendix 4.
A key achievement in 2009–10 was the release of a magazine-style resource, Get Parliament, for upper primary and lower secondary students. Get Parliament introduces the Parliament and the way it functions, with reference to material on federation, the Australian Constitution and the Parliament at work.
The PEO is committed to providing senators and members and their staff with direct access to parliamentary education information, resources and services. During 2009–10, this included regular email and face-to-face promotions to maintain parliamentarians' awareness of new and existing resources and services, including Get Parliament. The department's intranet site provided members and senators and their staff with up-to-date information about school groups visiting Parliament House and details of PEO programs and resources, including customised parliamentary education resource kits.
In 2009–10, there was a significant increase in demand for PEO publications and resources and in visits to the PEO website. The website recorded more than 525,000 sessions and more than 4.32 million page views, an increase of 22 per cent and 18 per cent respectively since 2008–09. This indicates that significantly more people are accessing the PEO website and viewing increased amounts of material, a key aim of the PEO's outreach strategy.
The examples of feedback from the PEO's target audiences shown in figure 15 confirm that the education services and resources were very well received in 2009–10.
Figure 15 Comments on PEO services and resources, 2009–10
From senators and members
We really liked [Get Parliament] … Layout is good and clear … The information is well written and communicates complex issues clearly and effectively. The graphics are fun—and overall it should be an effective teaching resource.
Thank you for all the wonderful assistance you have given our office and I know how appreciative the schools that receive these kits are as they write and tell us … we have had two schools actually plan trips to Canberra after receiving a kit. Keep up the great work you all do.
I would like to pass on my gratitude and that of the schools in my electorate to … the PEO, who came to my electorate … and ran Parliament Alive … the feedback from those teachers and schools was overwhelming. [The program] truly benefits young people in understanding how decisions we make here in Parliament House can affect them, their homes and their families.
We really liked [Get Parliament] … Layout is good and clear … The information is well written and communicates complex issues clearly and effectively. The graphics are fun—and overall it should be an effective teaching resource.
Thank you for all the wonderful assistance you have given our office and I know how appreciative the schools that receive these kits are as they write and tell us … we have had two schools actually plan trips to Canberra after receiving a kit. Keep up the great work you all do.
I would like to pass on my gratitude and that of the schools in my electorate to … the PEO, who came to my electorate … and ran Parliament Alive … the feedback from those teachers and schools was overwhelming. [The program] truly benefits young people in understanding how decisions we make here in Parliament House can affect them, their homes and their families.
From teachers
On behalf of Year 7 teachers at our college, I congratulate you on your website. We regularly use the lesson plans—they are well thought out and relevant.
Part of my study as a pre-service teacher involved designing class programs for both primary and secondary aged students. Your website and resources provided myself and our study group with some excellent material for inclusion in our presentation kit.
The program put together by the Parliamentary Education Office was intellectually stimulating and provided the students with an overview of the Australian political system.
On behalf of Year 7 teachers at our college, I congratulate you on your website. We regularly use the lesson plans—they are well thought out and relevant.
Part of my study as a pre-service teacher involved designing class programs for both primary and secondary aged students. Your website and resources provided myself and our study group with some excellent material for inclusion in our presentation kit.
The program put together by the Parliamentary Education Office was intellectually stimulating and provided the students with an overview of the Australian political system.
From students
Hi. I am an 11 year old kid from Victoria and I just wanted to tell you that your website is great.
Thank you for filling our minds with knowledge and the interesting ways and rules of parliament.
On behalf of the grade six and seven students we would like to thank you for making the very long trip to our school to run a mock parliament and demonstrate to us how parliament is run.
Hi. I am an 11 year old kid from Victoria and I just wanted to tell you that your website is great.
Thank you for filling our minds with knowledge and the interesting ways and rules of parliament.
On behalf of the grade six and seven students we would like to thank you for making the very long trip to our school to run a mock parliament and demonstrate to us how parliament is run.
As in past years, the PEO contributed significantly to the National Youth Science Forum sponsored by the Australian National University. The forum provides a summer study program for outstanding senior secondary school science students from all states and territories. As part of their experience, the students undertake a specially designed learning program at Parliament House. In 2009–10, 288 students took part, examining legislative work and Senate committee processes through role-play.
The PEO worked with Rotary International to run the Rotary Adventures in Citizenship program in September 2009. The five-day program gave the selected Year 11 students from across Australia an opportunity to experience the work of the Parliament, meet members of parliament and participate in an intensive learning program.
In 2009–10, the PEO also:
The PEO maintained good relationships with parliamentary educator colleagues, both within Australia and internationally, throughout 2009–10. In addition to hosting visits by staff from the United Kingdom Parliament's Education Service and Outreach Office, the PEO attended and made presentations to the Australasian Parliamentary Educators Conference hosted by the Parliament of Victoria in September 2009.
The PEO also:
The PEO invested heavily in training and development for its staff. During 2009–10, this included staff attendance at parliamentary training programs and professional and technical development courses.
Most PEO staff members engage in face-to-face education activity which requires a high level of professional skill and commitment. All new educators undertake a comprehensive training program that ensures they are well equipped to cater for a wide range of student aptitudes, interests and special needs. Several new educators were recruited and trained in 2009–10.
The PEO's publishing capability was expanded in 2009–10 with the recruitment of a publishing manager, who is supported by a dedicated web developer and a publishing officer. Publishing staff focused also on training and development, particularly the use of new web technologies, improved interface and application design, usability and accessibility.
During 2009–10, the department engaged in a range of activities with other parliaments and assisted in the development of parliaments in the region.
The department supported the work of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) by funding the attendance of a delegation at the 119th IPU Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland, in October 2009. The Director, Journals and Notice Paper, served as secretary to the delegation, providing administrative support and guidance to delegation members on the procedures and practices of the IPU prior to and during the assembly.
The Usher of the Black Rod served as secretary to a delegation to European parliaments and institutions in April 2010.
The Deputy President of the Senate and the then Deputy Clerk attended the 40th Conference of Presiding Officers and Clerks, held in Kiribati in July 2009.
Seminars and training programs were provided for parliamentary officers visiting from overseas parliaments. In particular, comprehensive programs were provided for delegations from India, Indonesia and Vietnam, continuing a long-term engagement with those countries' parliaments. The Inter-Parliamentary Study Program, conducted jointly with the Department of the House of Representatives in March 2010, provided training for officers from overseas parliaments in countries such as Bhutan, China, Finland, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Mongolia, New Zealand, Samoa, Thailand and Tonga.
The department signed a memorandum of understanding with the Indonesian Upper House, the Dewan Perwakilan Daerah (DPD), in September 2009. This partnership agreement provides for the sharing of skills and experiences through training activities, and is designed to improve the support provided to senators of the DPD.
The department also provided joint funding to the Parliamentary Relations Office (PRO), which is administered by the Department of the House of Representatives. The PRO provides parliamentary relations support to both the Senate and the House of Representatives. Many of the programs administered by the PRO involve significant contributions from officers of the Department of the Senate. The performance of the PRO is detailed in the annual report for the Department of the House of Representatives.
The demand for procedural and legislative services is substantially driven by the requirements of senators and the Senate chamber. Factors influencing demand include the frequency of sittings, the number of bills dealt with by the Senate and the legislative priorities of the Government and others. The composition of the Senate is also a factor: a situation in which no one group controls Senate outcomes typically leads to a strong demand for these services. The work of the secretariats of the legislative scrutiny committees is similarly driven by the requirements of those committees.
The PEO's education programs at Parliament House continue to operate at near capacity, with schools often making bookings for the program many months in advance. Some success has been achieved in encouraging schools to visit earlier in the school year when the demand for PEO education programs is lower.
To better address the parliamentary education needs of all students and teachers, particularly those that are less able to travel to Canberra, the PEO continues to devote considerable resources to expanding the range and quality of its online and multimedia services and resources. In 2009–10, there was a significant increase in visits to the PEO website and in the demand for PEO publications and resources.
The main vehicle for evaluating the services provided by the office is the survey of senators, which is undertaken every two years. As recorded in last year's report, high levels of satisfaction were recorded across the full range of services provided by the office in the 2009 survey.
The Procedure Office also monitors levels of satisfaction with its performance through formal and informal channels such as letters, emails, phone calls, seminar evaluation forms and direct advice from senators and their staff and members of the public. This continual performance appraisal assists the office to make timely and responsive adjustments to the way it delivers its services. High levels of positive feedback were received in 2009–10.
The PEO in particular monitors feedback on its activities and resources from senators and members, as well as its target audiences of students and teachers. Figure 15 provides a few examples.
In 2010–11, the Procedure Office will continue to provide its procedural and legislative services to meet the requirements of the Senate and senators and to support the work of the legislative scrutiny committees. Training and seminar programs will continue, with a focus on preparing and delivering orientation programs for new senators following the election. Each area within the office will also implement any changes which arise from the department's structural review.
The Research Section will further develop its information resources. A highlight will be the publication of volume 3 of The Biographical Dictionary of the Australian Senate, and a program to commence publishing extracts of that work online. Another key task will be restructuring the office's other publications for the new parliamentary website that is due to come online in 2010–11.
Work will continue on additional segments of the 'Acting Wisely' exhibition exploring the themes of representation and accountability.
The Research Section will coordinate a major conference to mark the 40th anniversary of the Senate's system of legislative and general purpose standing committees. The section will also coordinate the next Parliament House Open Day, scheduled for September 2010, as well as a range of activities to implement the ongoing Strengthening Parliamentary Institutions project.
In 2010–11, the PEO will seek to complete and consolidate a range of projects and programs. In the Education Centre, the implementation of the recommendations of a review of the role-play program will be completed: the most significant feature will be the introduction of concept-based role-plays, in contrast to the 'chamber-based' programs currently delivered.
In addition to facilitating role-play classes at Parliament House for more than 91,500 young Australians, the PEO will restructure and comprehensively review the material on its website to improve its accessibility and relevance. Increased emphasis will be placed on interactivity and an expanded range of materials will be developed, including new material for secondary students. Several publications will be updated and republished, and a number of outreach programs involving senators and members are planned.
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