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United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
Participating Organizations
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), at http://www.cdc.gov/
Components of Participating Organizations
National Center for HIV, STD, and TB Prevention (NCHSTP/CDC), at http://www.cdc.gov/nchstp/od/nchstp.html
Title: Behavioral Assessments and Rapid HIV Testing among African American Adolescents and Adults, Men Who Have Sex with Men, and Other Groups at Risk for HIV Infection (U62)
The policies, guidelines, terms, and conditions of the HHS Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stated in this announcement may differ from those used by the HHS National Institutes of Health (NIH). If a CDC policy does not exist to cover an applicable topic, or is in the process of being drafted, then for purposes of this announcement, the NIH policy is hereby adopted by CDC and will be applicable to that particular topic. In addition, if written guidance for completing this application is not available on the CDC website, then applicants will be directed elsewhere for that information.
Authority: Sections 301 and 318 of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. Section 241 and 247c), as amended.
Announcement Type:
Instructions for Submission of Electronic Research Applications:
NOTICE: Applications submitted in response to this Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) for Federal assistance must be submitted electronically through Grants.gov (http://www.grants.gov) using the SF424 Research and Related (R&R) forms and the SF424 (R&R) Application Guide.
This FOA must be read in conjunction with the application package instructions included with this announcement on Grants.gov/Apply for Grants (hereafter referred to as, Grants.gov/Apply).
A registration process is necessary before submission, and applicants are highly encouraged to start the process at least four weeks prior to the grant submission date. See Section IV.
Two steps are required for on time submission:
1) The application must be successfully received by Grants.gov no later than 5:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time on the application submission receipt date (see "Key Dates" below.)
2) Applicants must complete a verification step in the Electronic Research Administration (eRA Commons) within two business days of notification. Note: Since email can be unreliable, it is the responsibility of the applicant to periodically check on their application status in the eRA Commons.
Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) Number: RFA-PS-07-001
Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Number(s):
Key Dates
Release/Posted Date: February 6, 2007
Letter of Intent Receipt Date: March 2, 2007
Application Submission Receipt Date(s): April 3, 2007
Peer Review Date(s): May-June, 2007
Council Review Date(s): July 16, 2007
Earliest Anticipated Start Date(s): July 31, 2007
Additional Information to Be Available Date: Conference Call with all potential applicants to be held, 2:00pm E.T., February 14, 2007, phone number 1-877-951-9728, pass code 362242.
Expiration Date: April 4, 2007
Due Date for E.O. 12372
Due no later than 60 days after the application receipt date.
Additional Overview Content
Executive Summary
Funding Opportunity Announcement Glossary: FOA Glossary Terminology
Table of Contents
Part I Overview Information
Part II Full Text of Announcement
Section I. Funding Opportunity Description
1. Research Objectives
Section II. Award Information
1. Mechanism(s) of Support
2. Funds Available
Section III. Eligibility Information
1. Eligible Applicants
A. Eligible Institutions
2.Cost Sharing or Matching
3.Other - Special Eligibility Criteria
Section IV. Application and Submission Information
1. Request Application Information
2. Content and Form of Application Submission
3. Submission Dates and Times
A. Receipt and Review and Anticipated Start Dates
1. Letter of Intent
B. Submitting an Application to CDC
C. Application Processing
4. Intergovernmental Review
5. Funding Restrictions
6. Other Submission Requirements
Section V. Application Review Information
1. Criteria
2. Review and Selection Process
A. Additional Review Criteria
B. Additional Review Considerations
C. Sharing Research Data
D. Sharing Research Resources
3. Anticipated Announcement and Award Dates
Section VI. Award Administration Information
1. Award Notices
2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements
A. Cooperative Agreement
1. Recipient Rights and Responsibilities
2. HHS/CDC Responsibilities
3. Collaborative Responsibilities
3. Reporting
Section VII. Agency Contact(s)
1. Scientific/Research Contact(s)
2. Peer Review Contact(s)
3. Financial/ Grants Management Contact(s)
4. General Questions Contact(s)
Section VIII. Other Information - Required Federal Citations
Part II - Full Text of Announcement
Section I. Funding Opportunity Description
1. Research Objectives
The NCHSTP of CDC within HHS is committed to achieving the health promotion and disease prevention objectives of "Healthy People 2010" and to measuring program performance as stipulated by the Government Performance and Review Act (GPRA). This RFA addresses "Healthy People 2010" priority area(s) of identifying new HIV infections and is in alignment with NCHSTP performance goal(s) to strengthen the capacity nationwide to monitor the epidemic, develop and implement effective HIV prevention interventions, and evaluate prevention programs. In addition, this program addresses the following Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention (DHAP) priorities: increase the motivation of at-risk individuals to know their infection status and decrease real and perceived barriers to HIV testing; increase the number of evidence-based interventions and the proportion of prevention providers funded by CDC who successfully provide demonstrably effective HIV prevention interventions; among people living with HIV, increase the proportion who consistently engage in behaviors that reduce risk of HIV transmission or acquisition; among at-risk sexually active women (including some women who have sex with other women) and at-risk heterosexual men, increase the proportion who consistently engage in behaviors that reduce risk for HIV acquisition or transmission, increase the proportion of persons diagnosed with HIV who are successfully linked to medical care no later than 3 months after learning their HIV status, and increase the proportion of persons successfully linked to medical care who are identified as having been previously diagnosed with HIV infection but out of care. For more information, see www.health.gov/healthypeople and www.whitehouse.gov/omb/mgmt-gpra/.
Men who have Sex with Men (MSM), African Americans, and young adults are at increased risk of HIV infection compared with the general population. Despite on-going prevention efforts aimed at decreasing HIV infection among MSM and African Americans, recent data show increasing prevalence of HIV among both groups, as well as increasing incidence of HIV/AIDS among minority MSM and young adults aged 15-25 years old. Evidence suggests that many of these groups are more difficult to reach with traditional HIV prevention messages than other communities Many MSM and African Americans are unaware of their HIV serostatus.
The specific goals of this project are to:
1) determine the risk behaviors of persons attending gay pride events, minority gay pride events, black college spring break events, social or cultural events attended by a large number of African Americans, and other events;
2) increase the knowledge of HIV serostatus and behavioral risks among persons attending these events;
3) evaluate new models for rapid HIV testing at these events; and
4) link persons who are identified to be infected with HIV to health care and supportive services.
In order to achieve these goals, the project's objectives will include all of the following:
1) Use a brief behavioral assessment survey to describe risk behaviors, HIV testing history, and attitudes, knowledge, and beliefs about HIV among MSM, African Americans, and other persons who may be risk for HIV infection;
2) Use rapid HIV testing (in conjunction with standard pre- and post-test counseling practices and referrals) to increase the knowledge of HIV serostatus among MSM, African Americans, and other persons who may be at risk for HIV infection; and
3) Evaluate the acceptability, feasibility, facilitators, and barriers of implementing a survey and rapid HIV testing at these events.
This project is designed to conduct rapid HIV testing and/or behavioral assessments at a variety of events that include, but are not limited to:
1) gay pride events in cities not participating in the National HIV Behavioral Surveillance system;
2) minority gay pride events (including gay pride events attracting African Americans, Hispanics, American Indian / Alaska Natives, and Asian/ Pacific Islanders);
3) black college spring break events; and
4) large social or cultural events that attract large numbers of African Americans .
Primary outcomes for the project must include all of the following:
1) Number of behavioral assessment surveys conducted;
2) Number of HIV tests performed;
3) Number and proportion of HIV tests performed that have preliminary positive results;
4) Number and proportion of positive preliminary tests that are confirmed to be positive;
5) Number and proportion of persons with confirmed positive tests who are effectively linked to health care and supportive services; and
6) Number of implementation sites identified to carry out project field
Secondary outcomes must include all of the following:
1) Acceptability of HIV testing and surveys by attendees;
2) Acceptability of performing behavioral assessment surveys and HIV testing at events;
3) Perception of attendees and staff about marketing and recruiting strategies for behavioral assessment surveys and HIV testing at events; and
4) Perception of staff about the feasibility, barriers to, and facilitators for performing behavioral assessment surveys and HIV testing at events.
See Section VIII, Other Information - Required Federal Citations, for policies related to this announcement.
Section II. Award Information
1. Mechanism(s) of Support
This funding opportunity will use the U62 activity code.
The HHS/CDC U62 is a cooperative agreement assistance instrument. Under the U62 assistance instrument, the Recipient Organization retains the primary responsibility and dominant role for planning, directing, and executing the proposed project, and with HHS/CDC staff is substantially involved as a partner with the Recipient Organization, as described in Section VI.2.A., "Cooperative Agreement".
2. Funds Available
The participating Centers, Institutes, and Offices (CIO), NCHSTP, intends to commit approximately $250,000 including direct and indirect costs dollars in FY2007 to fund 1 award for a coordinating institution. The average award amount will be approximately $250,000 in direct and indirect costs for the first 12-month budget period. An applicant may request up to $250,000 in each of the subsequent years. The estimated total amount is $750,000 over the course of the 3-year project. The anticipated start date for new awards is July 31, 2007.
All estimated funding amounts are subject to availability of funds.
CDC will accept and review applications with budgets greater than the ceiling amount.
Because the nature and scope of the proposed research will vary from application to application, it is anticipated that the size and duration of each award will also vary. Although the financial plans of the CIO (s) provide support for this program, awards pursuant to this funding opportunity are contingent upon the availability of funds and the receipt of a sufficient number of meritorious applications.
Section III. Eligibility Information
1. Eligible Applicants
1.A. Eligible Institutions
You may submit an application(s) if your organization has any of the following characteristics:
A Bona Fide Agent is an agency/organization identified by the state as eligible to submit an application under the state eligibility in lieu of a state application. If you are applying as a bona fide agent of a state or local government, you must provide a letter from the state or local government as documentation of your status. Attach this documentation behind the first page of your application form or for electronic applications, use a PDF file and attach as "Other Documents" and label as appropriate.
1. B. Eligible Investigators
Any individual with the skills, knowledge, and resources necessary to carry out the proposed research as the Project Director/Principal Investigator (PD/PI) is invited to work with his/her organization to develop an application for support.
2. Cost Sharing or Matching
Cost sharing, matching, or cost participation is not required for this program.
The most current HHS Grants Policy Statement is available at: http://www.cdc.gov/od/pgo/funding/HHS_GPS_Oct_2006.doc
3. Other-Special Eligibility Criteria
If your application is incomplete or non-responsive to the special requirements listed in this section, it will not enter into the review process.
Note: Title 2 of the United States Code Section 1611 states that an organization described in Section 501(c)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code that engages in lobbying activities is not eligible to receive Federal funds constituting an award, grant, or loan.
Section IV. Application and Submission Information
To download a SF424 (R&R) Application Package and SF424 (R&R) Application Instructions for completing the SF424 (R&R) forms for this FOA, link to http://www.grants.gov/Apply/ and follow the directions provided on that Web site.
A one-time registration is required for institutions/organizations at the following:
PD/PIs should work with their institutions/organizations to make sure they are registered in the eRA Commons.
Several additional actions are required before an applicant institution/organization can submit an electronic application, as follows:
1) Organizational/Institutional Registration in Grants.gov/Get Started
2) Organizational/Institutional Registration in the eRA Commons
3) Project Director/Principal Investigator (PD/PI) Registration in the eRA Commons: Refer to the NIH eRA Commons System (COM) Users Guide.
Note that if a PD/PI is also an HHS peer-reviewer with an Individual DUNS and CCR registration, that particular DUNS number and CCR registration are for the individual reviewer only. These are different than any DUNS number and CCR registration used by an applicant organization. Individual DUNS and CCR registration should be used only for the purposes of personal reimbursement and should not be used on any grant applications submitted to the Federal Government.
Several of the steps of the registration process could take four weeks or more. Therefore, applicants should immediately check with their business official to determine whether their organization/institution is already registered in both Grants.gov and the eRA Commons. The HHS/CDC strongly encourages applicants to use the Grants.gov electronic applications process and have organizations and PD/PIs complete all necessary registrations.
1. Request Application Information
Applicants must download the SF424 (R&R) application forms and SF424 (R&R) Application Guide for this FOA through Grants.gov/Apply.
Note: Only the forms package directly attached to a specific FOA can be used. You will not be able to use any other SF424 (R&R) forms (e.g., sample forms, forms from another FOA); although some of the "Attachment" files may be useable for more than one FOA.
For further assistance, contact PGO TIMS: Telephone 770-488-2700, Email: email@example.com
HHS/CDC Telecommunications for the hearing impaired: TTY 770-488-2783.
2. Content and Form of Application Submission
Prepare all applications using the SF424 (R&R) application forms and in accordance with the SF424 (R&R) Application Guide (MS Word or PDF).
The SF424 (R&R) Application Guide is critical to submitting a complete and accurate application to HHS/CDC. There are fields within the SF424 (R&R) application components that, although not marked as mandatory, are required by HHS/CDC (e.g., the "Credential" log-in field of the "Research & Related Senior/Key Person Profile" component must contain the PD/PI assigned eRA Commons User ID). Agency-specific instructions for such fields are clearly identified in the Application Guide. For additional information, see "Tips and Tools for Navigating Electronic Submission" on the front page of "Electronic Submission of Grant Applications."
The SF424 (R&R) application is comprised of data arranged in separate components. Some components are required, others are optional. The forms package associated with this FOA in Grants.gov/APPLY will include all applicable components, mandatory and optional. A completed application in response to this FOA will include the following components:
Required Components:
SF424 (R&R) (Cover component)
Research & Related Project/Performance Site Locations
Research & Related Other Project Information
Research & Related Senior/Key Person
Research & Related Budget
PHS398 Cover Page Supplement
PHS398 Research Plan
PHS398 Checklist
Optional Components:
PHS398 Cover Letter File
Research & Related Sub award Budget Attachment(s) Form
Note: While both budget components are included in the SF424 (R&R) forms package, the CDC U62 (activity code) uses ONLY the detailed Research & Related Budget. (Do not use the PHS 398 Modular Budget.)
3. Submission Dates and Times
See Section IV.3.A for details
3. A. Submission, Review and Anticipated Start Dates
Letter of Intent Receipt Date: March 2, 2007
Application Submission Receipt Date(s): April 3, 2007
Peer Review Date(s): May-June, 2007
Council Review Date(s): July 16, 2007
Earliest Anticipated Start Date(s): July 31, 2007
3.A.1. Letter of Intent
Prospective applicants are asked to submit a letter of intent that includes the following information:
Although a letter of intent is not required, is not binding, and does not enter into the review of a subsequent application, the information that it contains allows CDC Program staff to estimate the potential review workload and plan the review.
The letter of intent is to be sent by the date listed in Section IV.3.A
The letter of intent should be sent to:
Trudy Messmer, PhD
Extramural Research Program Office – PS07-001
Coordinating Center for Infectious Diseases
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
1600 Clifton Rd, N.E., Mailstop C-19
Atlanta, GA 30333
Telephone: (404) 639-2176
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
3. B. Submitting an Application to CDC
If the instructions in this announcement differ in any way from the SF 424 R&R instructions, follow the instructions in this announcement.
To submit an application in response to this FOA, applicants should access this FOA via http://www.grants.gov/Apply and follow steps 1-4. If submittal of the application is done electronically through Grants.gov (http://www.grants.gov), the application will be electronically time/date stamped by Grants.gov. Applicants will receive an e-mail notice of receipt from eRA Commons and Grants.gov when HHS/CDC receives the application.
All requested information must be received in the HHS/CDC Procurement and Grants Office by 5:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time on the deadline date.
This announcement is the definitive guide on Letter Of Intent (LOI) and application content, submission address, and deadline. It supersedes information provided in the application instructions. If your application does not meet the deadline described in Section IV.3.A, it will not be eligible for review, and HHS/CDC will discard it. You will receive notification that you did not meet the submission requirements.
3. C. Application Processing
HHS/CDC must receive applications on or before 5:00 P.M. Eastern Standard Time on the application submission date(s) described above (Section IV.3.A.). If HHS/CDC receives an application after that submission date and time, the application may be delayed in the review process or not reviewed.
Once an application package has been successfully submitted through Grants.gov, any errors have been addressed, and the assembled application has been created in the eRA Commons, the PD/PI and the Authorized Organization Representative/Signing Official (AOR/SO) have two business days to view the application image.
Upon receipt, applications will be evaluated for completeness and responsiveness by NCHSTP and HHS/CDC Procurement and Grants Office (PGO). HHS/CDC will not review incomplete and non-responsive applications.
There will be an acknowledgement of receipt of applications from Grants.gov and the eRA Commons.
4. Intergovernmental Review
Your application is subject to Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs, as governed by Executive Order (EO) 12372. This order sets up a system for state and local governmental review of proposed federal assistance applications. You should contact your state single point of contact (SPOC) as early as possible to alert the SPOC to prospective applications, and to receive instructions on your state's process. Click on the following link to get the current SPOC list: http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants/spoc.html.
All HHS/CDC awards are subject to the terms and conditions, cost principles, and other considerations described in the HHS/PHS Grants Policy Statement.
Restrictions, which applicants must take into account while writing their budgets, are as follows:
6. Other Submission Requirements
Awardees upon acceptance of Notice of Award (NoA), must agree to the "Cooperative Agreement Terms and Conditions of Award" in Section VI. "Award Administration Information".
If you are requesting indirect costs in your budget, you must include a copy of your indirect cost rate agreement. If your indirect cost rate is a provisional rate, the agreement should be less than 12 months of age. If submitting electronically, use a PDF version of the agreement, attach it in Grants.gov under "Other Attachments", and title it appropriately.
Applicants' research plan(s) should address activities they will conduct over the entire project period.
The HHS/CDC requires the PD/PI to fill in his/her eRA Commons User ID in the "PROFILE – Project Director/Principal Investigator" section, "Credential" log-in field of the "Research & Related Senior/Key Person Profile" component. The applicant organization must include its DUNS number in its Organization Profile in the eRA Commons. This DUNS number must match the DUNS number provided at CSR registration with Grants.gov. For additional information, see Registration FAQs – Important Tips -- Electronic Submission of Grant Applications.
Research Plan Component Sections
While each section of the Research Plan component needs to be uploaded separately as a PDF attachment, applicants are encouraged to construct the Research Plan component as a single document, separating sections into distinct PDF attachments just before uploading the files. This approach will enable applicants to better monitor formatting requirements such as page limits. All attachments must be provided to HHS/CDC in PDF format, filenames must be included with no spaces or special characters, and a. PDF extension must be used. Do not include any information in a header or footer of the attachments. A header will be system-generated that references the PD/PI. Page numbers for the footer will be system-generated in the complete application, with all pages sequentially numbered; therefore, do not number the pages of your attachments. Your research plan must not exceed 25 pages. If your research plan exceeds the page limitation, your application may be considered unresponsive and ineligible for review.
The following materials may be included in the Appendix:
Up to five publications, manuscripts (accepted for publication), abstracts, patents, or other printed materials directly relevant to the proposed project. Do not include manuscripts submitted for publication. Applicants should refer to instruction guides and specific Funding Opportunity Announcements (FOAs) to determine the appropriate limit on the number of publications that may be submitted for a particular program. Note that not all grant activity codes allow the inclusion of publications.
Do not to use the Appendix to circumvent the page limitations of the Research Plan component. An application that does not observe the relevant policies and procedures may not be considered in the review process. Applicants are reminded to review specific FOAs for any additional program-specific guidance on Appendix material and other application requirements.
Plan for Sharing Research Data
Not applicable
Section V. Application Review Information
1. Criteria
Only the review criteria described below will be considered in the review process.
2. Review and Selection Process
Applications that are complete and responsive to the FOA will be evaluated for scientific and technical merit by an appropriate peer review group convened by the NCHSTP in accordance with the review criteria stated below.
As part of the initial merit review, all applications will:
The goals of HHS/CDC-supported research are to advance the understanding of health promotion and the prevention of disease, injury, and disability, and enhance preparedness. In the written comments, evaluate the application to judge the likelihood the proposed research will have a substantial impact on the pursuit of these goals. Each of these criteria will be addressed by the reviewers and considered in assigning the overall score, weighting them and weighted, as appropriate for each applications.
Note that an application does not need to be strong in all categories to be judged likely to have major scientific impact and thus deserve a high priority score. For example, an investigator may propose to carry out important work that by its nature is not innovative but is essential to move a field forward.
Significance: Does this study address an important problem? If the applicant achieves the aims of the application, how will it advance scientific knowledge or clinical practice? What will be the effect of these studies on the concepts, methods, technologies, treatments, or preventative interventions that drive this field?
Approach: Are the conceptual or clinical framework, design, methods, and analyses adequately developed, well integrated, well reasoned, and appropriate to the aims of the project? Does the applicant acknowledge potential problem areas and consider alternative tactics? Is the coordinating institution appropriately trained and well suited to carry out this work? Is the work proposed appropriate to the experience level of the principal investigator and other researchers? Does the investigative team bring complementary and integrated expertise to the project (if applicable)?
Is the project director at the coordinating institution well qualified, by education and experience, to lead and coordinate a multi-site team, to hire and train appropriate staff, and to provide programmatic feedback and guidance and oversight? How complete and comprehensive is the plan for the entire project period?
Innovation: Is the project original and innovative? For example: Does the project challenge existing paradigms or clinical practice; address an innovative hypothesis or critical barrier to progress in the field? Does the project develop or employ novel concepts, approaches, methodologies, tools, or technologies for this area?
Investigators: Are the investigators appropriately trained and well suited to carry out this work? Is the work proposed appropriate to the experience level of the principal investigator and other researchers? Does the investigative team bring complementary and integrated expertise to the project (if applicable)? Does the potential coordinating institution have the resources to announce funding opportunities, solicit applications, review applications, and administer funds for a research project? Does the applicant have the experience working with MSM, African Americans, and others at risk for HIV or agencies representing such groups? Does the applicant have experience administering projects in a variety of geographic areas within the U.S.? Does the applicant have the experience and resources necessary to develop a research protocol for behavioral assessments and HIV testing in collaboration with CDC and staff from implementing sites? Can the applicant demonstrate experience administering funds and concurrently managing funded projects among a variety of organizations
Environment: Does the scientific environment in which the applicant will do the work contribute to the probability of success? Do the proposed studies benefit from unique features of the scientific environment, or subject populations, or employ useful collaborative arrangements? Is there evidence of institutional support? Does the applicant have appropriate facilities and staff to conduct the suggested operations? Does the applicant demonstrate collaboration beyond its internal affiliations? Does it seem reasonable that the event will take place in a location that would allow for successful recruiting, behavioral assessment and rapid testing?
2.A. Additional Review Criteria
In addition to the above criteria, the following items will be considered in the determination of scientific merit and the priority score:
Protection of Human Subjects from Research Risk: When human subjects are involved, HHS/CDC will assess the available protections from research risk that relate to their participation in the proposed research. [see the Research Plan, Section 2, item 8 on Human Subjects in the SF424 (R&R)] http://www.hhs.gov/ohrp/humansubjects/guidance/45cfr46.htm. Additional HHS/CDC Requirements under AR-1 Human Subjects Requirements are available on the Internet at the following address: http://www.cdc.gov/od/pgo/funding/ARs.htm.
Inclusion of Women and Minorities in Research:
Does the application adequately address the HHS/CDC Policy requirements regarding the inclusion of women, ethnic, and racial groups in the proposed research? This includes: (1) The proposed plan for the inclusion of both sexes and racial and ethnic minority populations for appropriate representation; (2) The proposed justification when representation is limited or absent; (3) A statement as to whether the design of the study is adequate to measure differences when warranted; and (4) A statement as to whether the plans for recruitment and outreach for study participants include the process of establishing partnerships with community(ies) and recognition of mutual benefits (see Section 2, item 9 Inclusion or Women and Minorities of the Research Plan component of the SF424 (R&R).
Care and Use of Vertebrate Animals in Research: If applicants plan to use vertebrate animals in the project, HHS/CDC will assess the five items described under Section 2, item 12 Vertebrate Animals of the Research Plan component of the SF424 (R&R). Additional HHS/CDC Requirements under AR-3 Animal Subjects Requirements are available on the Internet at the following address: http://www.cdc.gov/od/pgo/funding/ARs.htm.
Biohazards: If applicants proposed materials or procedures that are potentially hazardous to research personnel and/or the environment, HHS/CDC will determine if the proposed protection is adequate.
2.B. Additional Review Considerations
Budget and Period of Support: The reasonableness of the proposed budget and the appropriateness of the requested period of support in relation to the proposed research may be assessed by the reviewers. Is the number of person months listed for the effort of the PD/PI appropriate for the work proposed? Is each budget category realistic and justified in terms of the aims and methods? The evaluation of the budget should not effect the priority score.
2.C. Sharing Research Data
Not applicable
2.D. Sharing Research Resources
Not applicable
3. Anticipated Announcement and Award Dates
The earliest anticipated award date is July 31,2007.
Section VI. Award Administration Information
1. Award Notices
After the peer review of the application is completed, the applicant organization will receive a written critique called a "Summary Statement." The applicant organization and the PD/PI will be able to access the Summary Statement via the eRA Commons.
HHS/CDC will contact those applicants under consideration for funding for additional information.
A formal notification in the form of a Notice of Award (NoA) will be provided to the applicant organization. The NoA signed by the Grants Management Officer (GMO) is the authorizing document. HHS/CDC will mail and/or e-mail this document to the recipient fiscal officer identified in the application.
Selection of the application for award is not an authorization to begin performance. Any cost incurred before receipt of the NoA is at the recipient's risk. These costs may be reimbursed only to the extent considered allowable pre-award costs. See also Section IV.5. Funding Restrictions.
2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements
The Code of Federal Regulations 45 CFR Part 74 and Part 92 have details about requirements. For more information on the Code of Federal Regulations, see the National Archives and Records Administration at the following Internet address: http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/cfr-table-search.html. Additional requirements are available Section VIII. Other Information of this document or on the HHS/CDC website at the following Internet address: http://www.cdc.gov/od/pgo/funding/ARs.htm. These will be incorporated into the NoA by reference.
The following terms and conditions will be incorporated into the NoA and will be provided to the appropriate institutional official and a courteous copy to the PD/PI at the time of award.
2.A. Cooperative Agreement
The following terms of award are in addition to, and not in lieu of, otherwise applicable Office of Management and Budget (OMB) administrative guidelines, HHS grant administration regulations at 45 CFR Parts 74 and 92 (Part 92 is applicable when State and local Governments are eligible to apply), and other HHS/CDC grant administration policies.
The administrative and funding instrument used for this program will be the cooperative agreement U62 an "assistance" instrument (rather than an "acquisition" instrument), in which substantial HHS/CDC programmatic involvement with the awardees is anticipated during the performance of the activities. Under the cooperative agreement, the HHS/CDC purpose is to support and stimulate the recipients' activities by involvement in and otherwise working jointly with the award recipients in a partnership role; it is not to assume direction, prime responsibility, or a dominant role in the activities. Consistent with this concept, the dominant role and prime responsibility resides with the awardees for the project as a whole, although specific tasks and activities may be shared among the awardees and the HHS/CDC may share specific tasks and activities, as defined above.
2.A.1. Recipient Rights and Responsibilities
The Recipient will have the primary responsibility for the following:
Recipient Organization will retain custody of and have primary rights to the information, data and software developed under this award, subject to U.S. Government rights of access consistent with current HHS and applicable HHS/CDC policies.
2.A.2. HHS/CDC Responsibilities
An HHS/CDC Project Scientist will have substantial programmatic involvement that is above and beyond the normal stewardship role in awards, as described below:
Additionally, an HHS/CDC agency program official or CIO program director will be responsible for the normal scientific and programmatic stewardship of the award and will be named in the NoA.
2.A.3. Collaborative Responsibilities
Recipient Organization must provide HHS/CDC with an original, plus two hard copies of the following reports:
1. Non-Competing Grant Progress Report, (use form PHS 2590, posted on the HHSCDC website, http://www.cdc.gov/od/pgo/funding/forms.htm and at https://grants.nih.gov/grants/funding/2590/2590.htm, no less than 120 days prior to the end of the current budget period. The progress report will serve as the non-competing continuation application.
2. Financial status report, no more than 90 days after the end of the budget period.
3. Final financial and performance reports, no more than 90 days after the end of the project period.
Recipient Organization must forward these reports by the U.S. Postal Service or express delivery to the Grants Management Specialist listed in the "Agency Contacts" section of this NoA.
Although the financial plans of the HHS/CDC CIO(s) provide support for this program, awards pursuant to this funding opportunity are contingent upon the availability of funds, evidence of satisfactory progress by the recipient (as documented in required reports) and the determination that continued funding is in the best interest of the Federal government.
HHS/CDC encourages your inquiries concerning this FOA and welcomes the opportunity to answer questions from potential applicants. Inquiries can fall into three areas: scientific/research, peer review, and financial or grants management issues:
1. Scientific/Research Contacts:
Trudy Messmer, PhD
Extramural Research Program Office
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Coordinating Center for Infectious Diseases
1600 Clifton RD, NE , MS C-19
Atlanta, GA Zip 30333
Telephone: (404) 639-2176
Email: email@example.com
2. Peer Review Contacts:
Felix Rogers, PhD, MPH
Scientific Review Administrator
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Coordinating Center for Infectious Diseases
National Center for HIV, STD, & TB Prevention
Extramural Research Program Office
1600 Clifton Road, NE., MS E05
Bldg. 12, Room 5211
Atlanta, Georgia 30333
Telephone: (404) 639-6101
Fax: (404) 639-0801
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
3. Financial or Grants Management Contacts:
Charles Elder
Procurement and Grants Office
Center for Disease Control and Prevention
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Colgate Building
2920 Brandywine Road
Atlanta, GA 30341
Telephone: (770) 488-5391
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
4. General Questions Contacts:
Technical Information Management Section
CDC Procurement and Grants Office
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
2920 Brandywine Road
Atlanta, GA 30341
Telephone: 770-488-2700
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
Section VIII. Other Information
Required Federal Citations
Human Subjects Protection
Federal regulations (45 CFR Part 46) require that applications and proposals involving human subjects must be evaluated with reference to the risks to the subjects, the adequacy of protection against these risks, the potential benefits of the research to the subjects and others, and the importance of the knowledge gained or to be gained (http://www.hhs.gov/ohrp/humansubjects/guidance/45cfr46.htm). Additional HHS/CDC Requirements under AR-1 Human Subjects Requirements can be found on the Internet at the following address: http://www.cdc.gov/od/pgo/funding/ARs.htm.
Requirements for Inclusion of Women and Racial and Ethnic Minorities in Research
It is the policy of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) to ensure that individuals of both sexes and the various racial and ethnic groups will be included in CDC/ATSDR-supported research projects involving human subjects, whenever feasible and appropriate. Racial and ethnic groups are those defined in OMB Directive No. 15 and include American Indian or Alaska Native, Asian, Black or African American, Hispanic or Latino, Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander. Applicants shall ensure that women, racial and ethnic minority populations are appropriately represented in applications for research involving human subjects. Where clear and compelling rationale exist that inclusion is inappropriate or not feasible, this situation must be explained as part of the application. This policy does not apply to research studies when the investigator cannot control the race, ethnicity, and/or sex of subjects. Further guidance to this policy is contained in the Federal Register, Vol. 60, No. 179, pages 47947-47951, and dated Friday, September 15, 1995.
Inclusion of Persons Under the Age of 21 in Research
The policy of CDC is that persons under the age of 21 must be included in all human subjects research that is conducted or supported by CDC, unless there are scientific and ethical reasons not to include them. This policy applies to all CDC-conducted or CDC-supported research involving human subjects, including research that is otherwise exempt in accordance with Sections 101(b) and 401(b) of 45 C.F.R. Part 46, HHS Policy for the Protection of Human Subjects. Therefore, proposals for research involving human subjects must include a description of plans for including persons under the age of 21. If persons under the age of 21 will be excluded from the research, the application or proposal must present an acceptable justification for the exclusion.
In an extramural research plan, the investigator should create a section titled "Participation of persons under the age of 21." This section should provide either a description of the plans to include persons under the age of 21 and a rationale for selecting or excluding a specific age range, or an explanation of the reason(s) for excluding persons under the age of 21 as participants in the research. When persons under the age of 21 are included, the plan must also include a description of the expertise of the investigative team for dealing with individuals at the ages included, the appropriateness of the available facilities to accommodate the included age groups, and the inclusion of a sufficient number of persons under the age of 21 to contribute to a meaningful analysis relative to the purpose of the study. Scientific review groups at CDC will assess each application as being acceptable or unacceptable in regard to the age-appropriate inclusion or exclusion of persons under the age of 21 in the research project, in addition to evaluating the plans for conducting the research in accordance with these provisions.
The inclusion of children (as defined by the applicable law of the jurisdiction in which the research will be conducted) as subjects in research must be in compliance with all applicable subparts of 45 C.F.R. Part 46, as well as with other pertinent federal laws and regulations.
The policy of inclusion of persons under the age of 21 in CDC-conducted or CDC-supported research activities in foreign countries (including collaborative activities) is the same as that for research conducted in the United States.
HIV/AIDS Confidentiality Provisions
Recipients must have confidentiality and security provisions to protect data collected through HIV/AIDS surveillance, including copies of local data release policies; employee training in confidentiality provisions; State laws, rules, or regulations pertaining to the protection or release of surveillance information; and physical security of hard copies and electronic files containing confidential surveillance information.
Describe laws, rules, regulations, or health department policies that require or permit the release of patient-identifying information collected under the HIV/AIDS surveillance system to entities outside the public health department; describe also the measures the health department has taken to ensure that persons reported to the surveillance system are protected from further or unlawful disclosure.
Some projects may require Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval or a certificate of confidentiality.
HIV Program Review Panel Requirements
Compliance with Content of AIDS-Related Written Materials, Pictorials, Audiovisuals, Questionnaires, Survey Instruments, and Educational Sessions (June 1992) is required.
To meet the requirements for a program review panel, you are encouraged to use an existing program review panel, such as the one created by the State health department's HIV/AIDS prevention program. If you form your own program review panel, at least one member must be an employee (or a designated representative) of a State or local health department. List the names of the review panel members on the Assurance of Compliance form, CDC 0.1113. Submit the program review panel's report that all materials have been approved.
If the proposed project involves hosting a conference, submit the program review panel's report stating that all materials, including the proposed conference agenda, have been approved. Submit a copy of the proposed agenda with the application.
Before funds are used to develop educational materials, determine whether suitable materials already exist in the CDC National Prevention Information Network (NPIN). The website can be found at; http://www.cdcnpin.org/scripts/index.asp.
Patient Care
Ensure that all STD or HIV infected patients enrolled in the proposed project will be linked to an appropriate local care system that can address their specific needs, such as medical care, counseling, social services, and therapy.
Executive Order 12372 Review
Applications are subject to Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs, as governed by Executive Order (E.O.) 12372. The order sets up a system for State and local governmental review of proposed Federal assistance applications. Applicants should contact their State single point of contact (SPOC) as early as possible to alert the SPOC to prospective applications and to receive instructions on the State process. For proposed projects serving more than one State, the applicant is advised to contact the SPOC for each State affected.
Click on the following link to get the current SPOC list
Indian tribes must request tribal government review of their applications.
Specs or tribal governments that have recommendations about an application submitted to HHS/CDC should send them, in a document bearing the program announcement number, no more than 60 days after the application deadline date, to:
Charles Elder, Grants Management Specialist
Procurement and Grants Office
Announcement Number PS07-001
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
2920 Brandywine Road
Atlanta, Georgia 30341-4146
HHS/CDC does not guarantee to accept or justify its non-acceptance of recommendations that are received more than 60 days after the application deadline.
Public Health System Reporting Requirements
This program is subject to the Public Health System Reporting Requirements. Under these requirements, all community-based non-governmental organizations submitting health services applications must prepare and submit the items identified below to the head of the appropriate State and/or local health agency(s) in the program area(s) that may be impacted by the proposed project no later than the application deadline date of the Federal application. The appropriate State and/or local health agency is determined by the applicant. The following information must be provided:
A. A copy of the face page of the application (SF 424).
B. A summary of the project that should be titled "Public Health System Impact Statement" (PHSIS), not exceed one page, and include the following:
1. A description of the population to be served.
2. A summary of the services to be provided.
3. A description of the coordination plans with the appropriate state and/or local health agencies.
If the State and/or local health official should desire a copy of the entire application, it may be obtained from the State Single Point of Contact (SPOC) or directly from the applicant.
Paperwork Reduction Act Requirements
Under the Paperwork Reduction Act, projects that involve the collection of information from 10 or more individuals and funded by a grant or a cooperative agreement will be subject to review and approval by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).
Smoke-Free Workplace Requirements
HHS/CDC strongly encourages all recipients to provide a smoke-free workplace and to promote abstinence from all tobacco products. Public Law 103-227, the Pro-Children Act of 1994, prohibits smoking in certain facilities that receive Federal funds in which education, library, day care, health care, or early childhood development services are provided to children.
In addition no part of HHS/CDC appropriated funds, shall be used, other than for normal and recognized executive-legislative relationships, for publicity or propaganda purposes, for the preparation, distribution, or use of any kit, pamphlet, booklet, publication, radio, television, or video presentation designed to support or defeat legislation pending before the Congress or any State or local legislature, except in presentation to the Congress or any State or local legislature itself. No part of the appropriated funds shall be used to pay the salary or expenses of any grant or contract recipient, or agent acting for such recipient, related to any activity designed to influence legislation or appropriations pending before the Congress or any State or local legislature.
Any activity designed to influence action in regard to a particular piece of pending legislation would be considered "lobbying." That is lobbying for or against pending legislation, as well as indirect or "grass roots" lobbying efforts by award recipients that are directed at inducing members of the public to contact their elected representatives at the Federal or State levels to urge support of, or opposition to, pending legislative proposals is prohibited. As a matter of policy, HHS/CDC extends the prohibitions to lobbying with respect to local legislation and local legislative bodies.
The provisions are not intended to prohibit all interaction with the legislative branch, or to prohibit educational efforts pertaining to public health. Clearly there are circumstances when it is advisable and permissible to provide information to the legislative branch in order to foster implementation of prevention strategies to promote public health. However, it would not be permissible to influence, directly or indirectly, a specific piece of pending legislation
It remains permissible to use HHS/CDC funds to engage in activity to enhance prevention; collect and analyze data; publish and disseminate results of research and surveillance data; implement prevention strategies; conduct community outreach services; provide leadership and training, and foster safe and healthful environments.
Recipients of HHS/CDC grants and cooperative agreements need to be careful to prevent CDC funds from being used to influence or promote pending legislation. With respect to conferences, public events, publications, and "grassroots" activities that relate to specific legislation, recipients of HHS/CDC funds should give close attention to isolating and separating the appropriate use of HHS/CDC funds from non-CDC funds. HHS/CDC also cautions recipients of HHS/CDC funds to be careful not to give the appearance that HHS/CDC funds are being used to carry out activities in a manner that is prohibited under Federal law.
Prohibition on Use of HHS/CDC Funds for Certain Gun Control Activities
The Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act specifies that: "None of the funds made available for injury prevention and control at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention may be used to advocate or promote gun control."
Anti-Lobbying Act requirements prohibit lobbying Congress with appropriated Federal monies. Specifically, this Act prohibits the use of Federal funds for direct or indirect communications intended or designed to influence a member of Congress with regard to specific Federal legislation. This prohibition includes the funding and assistance of public grassroots campaigns intended or designed to influence members of Congress with regard to specific legislation or appropriation by Congress.
In addition to the restrictions in the Anti-Lobbying Act, HHS/CDC interprets the language in the HHS/CDC's Appropriations Act to mean that HHS/CDC's funds may not be spent on political action or other activities designed to affect the passage of specific Federal, State, or local legislation intended to restrict or control the purchase or use of firearms.
Accounting System Requirements
The services of a certified public accountant licensed by the State Board of Accountancy or the equivalent must be retained throughout the project as a part of the recipient's staff or as a consultant to the recipient's accounting personnel. These services may include the design, implementation, and maintenance of an accounting system that will record receipts and expenditures of Federal funds in accordance with accounting principles, Federal regulations, and terms of the cooperative agreement or grant.
Capability Assessment
It may be necessary to conduct an on-site evaluation of some applicant organization's financial management capabilities prior to or immediately following the award of the grant or cooperative agreement. Independent audit statements from a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) for the preceding two fiscal years may also be required.
Proof of Non-profit Status
Proof of nonprofit status must be submitted by private nonprofit organizations with the application. Any of the following is acceptable evidence of nonprofit status: (a) a reference to the applicant organization's listing in the Internal Revenue Service's (IRS) most recent list of tax-exempt organizations described in section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Code; (b) a copy of a currently valid IRS tax exemption certificate; (c) a statement from a State taxing body, State Attorney General, or other appropriate State Official certifying that the applicant organization has a nonprofit status and that none of the net earnings accrue to any private shareholders or individuals; (d) a certified copy of the organization's certificate of incorporation or similar document that clearly establishes nonprofit status; (e) any of the above proof for a State or national parent organization and a statement signed by the parent organization that the applicant organization is a local nonprofit affiliate.
Small, Minority, And Women-owned Business
It is a national policy to place a fair share of purchases with small, minority and women-owned business firms. The Department of Health and Human Services is strongly committed to the objective of this policy and encourages all recipients of its grants and cooperative agreements to take affirmative steps to ensure such fairness. In particular, recipients should:
Research Integrity
The signature of the institution official on the face page of the application submitted under this Funding Opportunity Announcement is certifying compliance with the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) regulations in Title 42 Part 93, Subparts A-E, entitled PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE POLICIES ON RESEARCH MISCONDUCT.
The regulation places requirements on institutions receiving or applying for funds under the PHS Act that are monitored by the DHHS Office of Research Integrity (ORI) (http://ori.hhs.gov./policies/statutes.shtml).
For example:
Section 93.301 Institutional assurances. (a) General policy. An institution with PHS supported biomedical or behavioral research, research training or activities related to that research or research training must provide PHS with an assurance of compliance with this part, satisfactory to the Secretary. PHS funding components may authorize [[Page 28389]] funds for biomedical and behavioral research, research training, or activities related to that research or research training only to institutions that have approved assurances and required renewals on file with ORI. (b) Institutional Assurance. The responsible institutional official must assure on behalf of the institution that the institution-- (1) Has written policies and procedures in compliance with this part for inquiring into and investigating allegations of research misconduct; and (2) Complies with its own policies and procedures and the requirements of this part.
Compliance with Executive Order 13279
Faith-based organization are eligible to receive federal financial assistance, and their applications are evaluated in the same manner and using the same criteria as those for non-faith-based organizations in accordance with Executive Order 13279, Equal Protection of the Laws for Faith-Based and Community Organizations. All applicants should, however, be aware of restrictions on the use of direct financial assistance from the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) for inherently religious activities. Under the provisions of Title 45, Parts 74, 87, 92 and 96, organizations that receive direct financial assistance from DHHS under any DHHS program may not engage in inherently religious activities, such as worship, religious instruction, or proselytization as a part of the programs or services funded with direct financial assistance from DHHS. If an organization engages in such activities, it must offer them separately, in time or location, from the programs or services funded with direct DHHS assistance, and participation must be voluntary for the beneficiaries of the programs or services funded with such assistance. A religious organization that participates in the DHHS funded programs or services will retain its independence from Federal, State, and local governments, and may continue to carry out its mission, including the definition, practice, and expression of its religious beliefs, provided that it does not use direct financial assistance from DHHS to support inherently religious activities such as those activities described above. A faith-based organization may, however, use space in its facilities to provide programs or services funded with financial assistance from DHHS without removing religious art, icons, scriptures, or other religious symbols. In addition, a religious organization that receives financial assistance from DHHS retains its authority over its internal governance, and it may retain religious terms in its organization=s name, select its board members on a religious basis, and include religious references in its organization=s mission statements and other governing documents in accordance with all program requirements, statutes, and other applicable requirements governing the conduct of DHHS funded activities. For further guidance on the use of DHHS direct financial assistance see Title 45, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 87, Equal Treatment for Faith-Based Organizations, and visit the internet site:
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act Requirements
Recipients of this grant award should note that pursuant to the Standards for Privacy of Individually Identifiable Health Information promulgated under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) (45 CFR Parts 160 and 164) covered entities may disclose protected health information to public health authorities authorized by law to collect or receive such information for the purpose of preventing or controlling disease, injury, or disability, including, but not limited to, the reporting of disease, injury, vital events such as birth or death, and the conduct of public health surveillance, public health investigations, and public health interventions. The definition of a public health authority includes a person or entity acting under a grant of authority from or contract with such public agency. HHS/CDC considers this project a public health activity consistent with the Standards for Privacy of Individually Identifiable Health Information and HHS/CDC will provide successful recipients a specific grant of public health authority for the purposes of this project.
National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (Public Law 89-665, 80 Stat. 915)
The grantee's signature on the grant application attests to their: (1) knowledge of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (Public Law 89-665, 80 Stat. 915); and (2) intent to ensure all grant related activities are in compliance with referenced public law, as stated:
a. Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) states:
The head of any Federal agency, having direct or indirect jurisdiction over a proposed Federal or Federally assisted undertaking in any State and the head of any Federal department or independent state agency having authority to license any undertaking, shall, prior to the approval of the expenditure of any Federal funds on the undertaking or prior to the issuance of any license, as the case may be, take into account the effect of the undertaking on any district, site, building, structure, or object that is included in or is eligible for inclusion in the National Register. The head of any such Federal agency shall afford the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation established under Title II of this ACT a reasonable opportunity to comment with regard to such undertaking.
Each Federal agency shall ensure that the agency will not grant a loan, loan guarantee, permit, license, or other assistance to an applicant who, with intent to avoid the requirements of Section 106 of this Act, has intentionally, significantly, adversely affected a historic property to which the grant would relate or, having legal power to prevent it, allowed such significant adverse effect to occur, unless the agency, after consultation with the Council, determines that circumstances justify granting such assistance despite the adverse effect created or permitted by the applicant.
Conference Disclaimer and Use of Logos
{Mandatory for all grants and cooperative agreements.}
Disclaimer: Where a conference is funded by a grant or cooperative agreement, a sub grant or a contract the recipient must include the following statement on conference materials, including promotional materials, agenda, and internet sites:
"Funding for this conference was made possible [in part] by [insert grant or cooperative agreement award number] from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC) or the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) . The views expressed in written conference materials or publications and by speakers and moderators do not necessarily reflect the official policies of the Department of Health and Human Services; nor does mention of trade names, commercial practices, or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. Government."
Logos: Neither the HHS nor the CDC ("CDC" includes ATSDR) logo may be displayed if such display would cause confusion as to the source of the conference or give the false appearance of Government endorsement. A non-federal entity's unauthorized use of the HHS name or logo is governed by U.S.C. § 1320b-10, which prohibits the misuse of the HHS name and emblem in written communication. The appropriate use of the HHS logo is subject to the review and approval of the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs (OASPA). Moreover, the Office of the Inspector General has authority to impose civil monetary penalties for violations (42 C.F.R. Part 1003). Neither the HHS nor the CDC logo can be used on conference materials under a grant, cooperative agreement, contract or co-sponsorship agreement without the expressed, written consent of either the Project Officer or the Grants Management Officer. It is the responsibility of the grantee (or recipient of funds under a cooperative agreement) to request consent for the use of the logo in sufficient detail to assure a complete depiction and disclosure of all uses of the Government logos, and to assure that in all cases of the use of Government logos, the written consent of either the Project Officer or the Grants Management Officer has been received.
Weekly TOC for this Announcement
NIH Funding Opportunities and Notices
Office of Extramural
Research (OER)
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
9000 Rockville Pike
Bethesda, Maryland 20892
Department of Health
and Human Services (HHS)
Note: For help accessing PDF, RTF, MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Audio or Video files, see Help Downloading Files.


text:
Mets option 10 players to Minor League camp
By Joey Nowak / MLB.com
PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. -- The Mets trimmed their roster to 45 on Sunday, optioning 10 players to Minor League camp.
The team's top pitching prospect, right-hander Zack Wheeler, was among the cuts. The others were right-handers Gonzalez Germen, Collin McHugh, Elvin Ramirez and Hansel Robles, left-hander Darin Gorski, outfielders Juan Lagares and Cesar Puello, and infielders Reese Havens and Wilfredo Tovar.
Wheeler is the Mets' No. 2 prospect -- behind catcher Travis d'Arnaud -- and baseball's No. 8 overall.
Wheeler was not expected to make the Opening Day roster, and admits that an injured right oblique, which set him back the last two weeks, didn't help his case. He's expected to be joined in the Minors by d'Arnaud later this spring, and the two are likely to begin the year with Triple-A Las Vegas.
"Just keep working down there," Wheeler said of the message he got after a meeting with manager Terry Collins, general manager Sandy Alderson and pitching coach Dan Warthen. "Make us pull you up. We'll be looking for you soon."
Wheeler attributes demotion to oblique injury
PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. -- Top pitching prospect Zack Wheeler was back on the mound, throwing batting practice on Sunday, tossing about 25 pitches to Mets Minor Leaguers.
The right-hander, the Mets' No. 2 prospect -- behind catcher Travis d'Arnaud -- and No. 8 overall has been battling a right oblique injury, an injury that caused him to be scratched from a Feb. 27 start.
Wheeler was one of 10 players sent to Minor League camp on Sunday, and he figures the setback is a significant reason.
"I don't think the injury helped," Wheeler said. "I really didn't think about it all that much. My mind-set was coming in and making the team."
Instead he'll likely start the season with Triple-A Las Vegas. He's expected to be joined there by d'Arnaud, who should still have a few more weeks in big league camp.
Wheeler's lone Grapefruit League outing was in the Mets' spring opener, against the Nationals on Feb. 23. He gave up a hit and a walk while striking out two in two innings of work.
"I'm not happy, but the injury cut me back just a little bit," he said. "I only got out there one time, that's what I'm kind of mad about. I wanted to sort of get out there and prove myself. But hopefully, I'll be up here soon."
"He did a lot," said manager Terry Collins. "We saw a great arm out of him. We know he's got the great arm. I thought he handled his situation in the clubhouse, [with the media]. I know he's disappointed. He's got every right to be. But he's going to get his chance. Just like Matt Harvey. When he gets here, he'll never look back."
Sunday was Wheeler's first action against hitters since straining the oblique while swinging in the batting cage. He faced three hitters, drawing only limited contact despite admitting he wasn't in his finest rhythm due to the recent inactivity.
"It felt good," he said. "But the timing was off a little with everything, stuff like that, so my pitches weren't crisp. Other than that, the oblique felt good. Everything else felt good."
Wheeler expects to see game action soon, likely when Minor League games start, and to up his pitch count by about 10 each outing, leaving him at about 70 once the season starts. And if he does rejoin the Mets, he says, the experience spent with the big league club in Port St. Lucie will go a long way.
"You know everybody around the locker room and stuff like that, and that definitely helps, so when you get up there, you sort of aren't just a deer in the headlights," he said. "But I think it's helped me being up here, preparing for the season a little bit."
Versatile Valdespin making his presence felt
JUPITER, Fla. -- Jordany Valdespin continues to make his presence felt, going 1-for-1 with an RBI single to center in the eighth inning of Sunday's 3-0 win over the Cardinals.
Valdespin is now hitting .360 this spring with two homers, five RBIs, a stolen base and five runs. He has struck out just twice.
"He's an aggressive guy," manager Terry Collins said. "He plays with enthusiasm, and he's got some excitement to him. But he swings and he's dangerous, because he's got some power."
Valdespin's versatility makes him a prime candidate to make the roster as a utility player. In a 94-game rookie season last year, the 25-year-old played second base and shortstop, and all three outfield positions. He was also 9-for-42 with nine runs, five homers and 10 RBIs as a pinch-hitter.
"Obviously, if you're going to be an extra player, the fact that you can play a lot of positions means a lot," Collins said. "And we saw it last year, the fact that he can come off the bench and be dangerous, also."
Valdespin, who hit .241 overall last year with a .710 OPS, said that the prospect of a utility role won't change his work or his preparation this spring.
"It's different, because the outfield is a different position, but I'm ready for any situation they want for me," Valdespin said. "I'm working hard, and last season I played second, played short, played outfield. I can do the role of the utility guy."
Joey Nowak is a reporter for MLB.com. Follow him on Twitter at @joeynowak. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
2013 Valentines Day was better than I expected. I am sure you are dying to know why. Well here's the story………
2013 Valentines Day began with Sun Salutations Yoga. I have been performing all the bendy and twisty moves, well as much as my inflexible overweight body can stand for about 2 weeks now. I have been really enjoying it and actually feeling stronger.
I have been really getting into my workouts lately and I'm so proud of myself. In my opinion doing yoga is like loving myself. As a matter of fact at the end of each session when I am lying in corpse pose I am repeating in my mind mantras of love. Honestly…
This handsome gentleman was my driver the whole time I was in Bali. He became my friend as well. His nickname is Yoga. I asked him why his friends called him that. He said simply because he loved to meditate.
I asked him how he meditated. He said he mostly thought about love. Not as in relationships, but basically a way of life. So now when I perform my yoga meditation I focus on love as well. Isn't that a beautiful way to meditate. So doing yoga is a way for me to surround myself with love.
During our boring morning meeting my boss calls all the ladies to the front of the room. He presented each of us with a huge bouquet of flowers. I was surprised although I should not of been. You know I am the one that gave them the money to purchase the flowers, with company funds of course. Sometimes I am such a chicken head.
That was a great way to start 2013 Valentines Day Off. I really was not expecting anything. I'm not seeing or interested in anyone at this time. That's right gentlemen.
This lady is super single. 🙂 🙂 🙂
OK, I was really surprised when I found this. OH Whee…. Is it what I think? Hell Yeah!
Ok, I'm trying to drop some pounds, but I don't want to pass up any sweets. Miguel was the person that left them. If you have been following my blog, you know he is my Bestie right now. I gave him a big ole hug. He has such a kind heart.
Not my cake, but it sure was pretty. One of the guys received this from his honey. So 2013 Valentines day was not a bust after all. It actually was not bad.
I was going to post something different, but was sort of inspired by a The Daily Post. The challenge…..Daily Prompt: Cupid's Arrow. Here are some other readers who took on the challenge as well. Check them out:
- An Ode to Sleep | Mind of a Mouse
- cupid's arrow struck true | thematticuskingdom
- Daily Prompt: Cupid's Arrow | The Ineffable and Unutterable Musings Of A Mad Man
- Foolish Archer « Drops of Ink
- Daily Prompt: Cupid's Arrow | Daddy's Naughty Little Girl
- Valentine Haiku | Kansa Muse on Micro Farming and More
- Daily Prompt: Cupid's Arrow, Hands to Hold « Lines by Linda
- I Like This Mug Too Much | Never Stationary
- Daily Prompt: Cupid's Arrow Shot Hard | My Blog
- You, Me and Us | Pigments of Life
- Post a Week: Look Forward | sketches and scribbles (reloaded)
I hope you all are having a great day. 🙂
♥Happy 2013 Valentines Day♥
Your full of L♥ve Lizzy 🙂
2013 Valentines Day Question:
What do you think about Valentines Day?
Did something unexpected happen for you on this day of love?


text:
When most
people think of alternative fuels, they often look towards the automotive
industry. Modern cars and trucks are already available that can be powered by hydrogen,
batteries, and other fuel sources such as biofuel derived from corn and other
materials. The aviation industry is also looking to "green" biofuels to power
commercial flights.
The Air Transport Association (ATA) has announced that
the ASTM International Committee on Petroleum Products and Lubricants has given
the green light for a new jet fuel specification to push aviation biofuels. ATA
President and CEO Nicholas Calio remarks, "The committee endorsement of
this specification is significant for all consumers of jet fuel, bringing the
airline industry one step closer to widespread production of cleaner,
alternative fuels that will help meet our environmental goals while enhancing
the security and competitiveness of our energy supply."
The FAA is also pleased that the new biofuel
specification has been approved. FAA administrator Randy Babbitt said,
"This is a significant step toward a new era of greener and more
energy-independent air travel. We anticipate publication of a standard in the
next few weeks will open the door for production of commercial aviation
biofuels that can be used without changing aircraft systems or airport fueling
The new biofuel specification will allow for blends of up to a 50 percent
mixture of traditional jet fuel and 50 percent of the new biofuel produced by
feedstocks like camelina, jatropha, or algae. The ATA said in a statement,
"[The ATA has] voted to approve the addition of a new bio-derived jet fuel
annex to the alternative jet fuel specification D7566. This effectively
concludes the technical review process, allowing for final issuance of the
revised specification by August of this year."
NASA has been researching
biofuels that are made from a type of rendered animal fat.
The USAF
has also been working to certify biofuels for military aircraft as well. The USAF
Globemaster III is the first military aircraft certified for biofuel
use. The Air Force noted that its 50 percent mixture of JP-8 and 50 percent HRJ
biofuel had no discernible effects on engine performance.


text:
In order to get you on your way on event or concert nights, we offer a limited menu that features our most popular appetizers and entrees.
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(Bold = @ The Matt)
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Robinson always saw the big picture
Dodgers great kept his composure in times of adversity
By / MLB.com
There will be an elaborate celebration of Robinson's life-long accomplishments at Dodgers Stadium as well as tributes throughout Major League baseball.
With all of the festivities that are planned, nothing will say more about the man Jackie Robinson than a day 35 years ago this June, when Robinson himself stepped onto the field at Dodger Stadium for the final time.
The date was June 4, 1972, when the Dodgers held a pregame ceremony to retire the first three numbers in team history -- Robinson's No. 42, Roy Campanella's No. 39 and Sandy Koufax's No. 32.
A picture taken in front of the Dodgers' dugout on the third-base side of the stadium captures the event. Jackie is wearing a short-sleeved white shirt with blue pants and a blue tie. Campanella, in a wheelchair as the result of a 1958 auto accident, has on a Brooklyn cap and is wearing a Dodgers jersey. And then there is Koufax in full uniform.
The three men are holding large glass frames containing their legendary jerseys.
What the picture doesn't show, however, is the commotion just before the start of the ceremonies.
As a member of the Dodgers' front office, I had been standing next to Robinson and a few other people who were to be involved in the ceremony near the steps of the Dodger dugout when a fan in the seats directly above shouted "Jackie, Jackie, please sign this ball."
The man tossed a baseball in Jackie's direction, not realizing the vision of the once-great athlete had deteriorated so badly due to diabetes that he had no way of seeing the ball.
On this day, Robinson remembered
Commissioner honors Rachel Robinson
Bauman: Every day should be Robinson Day
Sacred No. 42 on display around league
Urban Youth Academy a beacon in LA
Youth get baseball essentials at clinic
Robinson affected American society
No. 42 was one of chance
'Jackie Jerseys' to be auctioned
Robinson made impact on field, too
Robinson's many peers follow his lead
Newman: 1947 a time for change
A fitting tribute to a legend
Doby remembered for his part, too
Jackie Robinson Day celebration
Rachel Robinson news conference
Jimmie Lee Solomon on Robinson
Frank Robinson on talking with Jackie
'Thank you, Jackie' from TWIB
Dodgers past and present
"Breaking the Color Barrier"
Newcombe on teammate Robinson
Newcombe discusses community relations
Watson on Robinson's impact
Landreaux on Youth Academy
Jackie Robinson profile
Spike Lee documentary
Baseball's Best: 1952 Series highlights
1962 Hall of Fame induction speech
Jackie Robinson retrospective
The ball bounced off Jackie's shoulder and hit him in the head. Several people around Jackie went wild with anger, shouting at the man who had made the ill-advised throw.
Above those loud voices came the reasonable and calming voice of Jackie Robinson.
"Give me the ball," he said. "Calm down and give me the ball. He doesn't know."
Jackie borrowed a pen, signed the ball and had it returned to the fan.
While people around him were shouting and losing control, Robinson retained his presence and responded with dignity.
I think about that moment in time as I think about Jackie Robinson and the tributes that will be paid to him on Sunday.
I think about how Jackie had to withstand verbal abuse and turmoil as he broke the color barrier in the Major Leagues in 1947.
I think about how he responded to all of the adversity that came his way with an ability to keep his focus and to keep his ultimate goals in mind.
I think about his quote that was to define his life: "A life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives."
All of the members of the Dodgers will be wearing No. 42 this Sunday, and several other teams and players throughout the game will pay tribute to Robinson by wearing his number.
It is somewhat interesting that Jackie chose not to wear his uniform jersey or even a Dodgers cap when his number was retired at Dodger Stadium.
Robinson had moved beyond baseball at that point. He really had turned his attention to other areas as soon as he retired from the game in December 1956, after being traded by the Dodgers to the New York Giants. Just imagine that, Robinson traded to the Giants for a journeyman left-handed pitcher and $30,000. Jackie knew the trade didn't make any sense for him or the Dodgers, and when he immediately retired the trade was voided.
Robinson always seemed to understand the big picture. He was losing his eyesight at a relatively young age, but he never lost his vision in wanting to help people in need.
His last public appearance came four months after the ceremony at Dodger Stadium when he was at Riverfront Stadium in Cincinnati to throw out the first ball before game No. 2 of the 75th World Series. As frail as he had become while battling diabetes and heart disease, Robinson went to that World Series because he had a message he wanted to deliver.
"I'd like to see a black manager," he said. "I'd like to see the day when there is a black man coaching third base."
Robinson wanted opportunities for minorities. He sought an equal playing field.
Nine days after that appearance, on Oct. 24, 1972, Jackie Robinson passed away. He was 53.
In 30 years with the Dodgers, the greatest honor I ever had was to stand in the company of Jackie Robinson.
Fred Claire was a member of the Los Angeles Dodgers from 1969-98, serving the team as executive vice president and general manager. His book -- Fred Claire: My 30 Years in Dodger Blue -- was published by SportsPublishing, LLC. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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A search warrant served Tuesday at a McKinleyville residence revealed an arsenal of weapons, marijuana, heroin, prescription drugs, sales packaging materials and nearly $70,000 in cash, officials said.
Agents from the Humboldt County Drug Task Force and Humboldt County Sheriff's Office Community Response Unit served a search warrant on a home in the 3200 block of Halfway Avenue in McKinleyville around 5 p.m. Tuesday, according to a press release. When the warrant was served, law enforcement officials reported finding approximately 65 pounds of dried, processed marijuana buds packaged for individual sale. They also reported locating six loaded semi-automatic pistols -- including two with laser sights -- a shotgun, approximately six grams of heroin, more than 100 prescription tablets and packaging materials and scales consistent with drug sales. Paperwork detailing who the alleged dealers owe money to and who had already paid them was found with $68,657 in cash. On the outside of the residence, agents also located operating video surveillance cameras, a release said.
Homeowner Eric Daniel Culbertson, 41, and New York resident Andrew Petrone, 40, were found in the residence and arrested, according to the release. Culbertson was arrested on suspicion of possessing marijuana for sale, conspiracy, maintaining a residence for drug sales, being armed in commission of a felony and possessing a controlled substance. Petrone was arrested on suspicion of possessing marijuana for sale and conspiracy. Both were transported and booked into the Humboldt County jail. Their bails were set at $75,000.
Law enforcement officials are asking anyone with information about the alleged drug sales to contact the Humboldt County Drug Task Force at 444-8095 or the sheriff's office crime tip line at 268-2539. Eureka residents can contact the Eureka Police Problem Oriented Policing Unit at 441-4373 about drug sales activity.


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Brokers Charged in Libor Investigation
Terry Farr and James Gilmour, Former Brokers at RP Martin, Were Charged Monday
LONDON—British fraud prosecutors on Monday filed criminal fraud charges against two former London brokers, marking an expansion of the investigation into manipulation of the London interbank offered rate, or Libor.
The U.K.'s Serious Fraud Office said it charged Terry Farr and James Gilmour, who both used to work for interdealer broker R.P. Martin Holdings Ltd., with "conspiracy to defraud." The charges come after the...


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If there are negatives to consumers, then by extension, there must be negatives to our businesses.
So what exactly are the negatives of too many choices, and how do they affect consumers?
Paralysis: When consumers are overwhelmed by options, they may choose none at all (defaulting say, to the corner coffee shop where they have been satisfied with the choice they made long ago).
A study of employees who were offered different mutual funds found that the greater the number of fund choices offered, the fewer the number of employees who actually enrolled in the program at all, even when presented with matching funds by the employer! Even with the obvious reward of financial matching, the prospect of choosing incorrectly, and therefore failing, was too daunting for employees to do what was in their best interest.
Extrapolate this knowledge and use it in our day-to-day operations, and we may suggest to those prospects looking at several competitors that they narrow the search to only a few as with too many, they may, more often than not, stick with the incumbent. As the band Rush sang, "If you choose not to decide, you still have made a choice."
Expectation of perfection: When consumers make choices among so many alternatives, their perceptions are that their choices should be perfect -- or they must have made the wrong one. The customer's perception that he or she made the wrong choice can lead to anxiety and resentment toward the offerings as it should have been more clear what option was the best for their satisfaction.
With an increase in options, our expectation of improvement in quality and satisfaction rises, allowing for a greater chance that those expectations will not be met. This can translate into a greater number of dissatisfied clients, regardless of the great effort we put forth we are presenting every possible option with the goal of complete customer satisfaction.
Second, as Schwartz points out, is the loss of the "pleasant surprise." Our expectations have been so greatly increased in modern society that we have come to expect perfection in every aspect of our lives and therefore, even when we make the perfect choice, we only feel accommodated and perfect becomes our expectation. Anything less and we are far harder on ourselves, and the product/service in question, leaving us with a greater sense that we should and could do better.
It is far harder today to "blow the minds" of our clients with our product offerings. Two decades ago, just adding a hazelnut and creme to your demo brought oohs and aahs from the prospect.
Nowadays the choices have moved away from the coffees -- where it is expected that the OCS operator carries a dark-roasted Sumatra, as well as a Kona blend, a doughnut blend and more -- and on to the equipment, we are now capable of presenting a dozen or more options, just in single-cup brewers.
The angst on the part of operators in making correct choices about what brewers to run can be a painful enough process, and may suggest to you how much more difficult the decision-making has become on the part of the OCS client.
So is Dr. Schwartz right? Have we gone too far in offering so many options that we risk freezing all commerce as we know it? Will we be stuck in a world of discontent, with accolades forever tapering off in the face of perceived mediocrity?
I do not believe the situation is quite that dire. What Schwartz neglects to point out is that choices themselves may not be the problem. The likely culprit is communicating what each choice represents in benefit and gain, as well as drawbacks and pitfalls, to the buyer. The better we educate, the better informed the final decisions become on the part of customers; and with proper follow-through on meeting expectations promised, greater will be the satisfaction derived.
Consumers are demanding choice, and it is up to us to deliver on this request while at the same time communicating what the end result of that choice will mean so we can best maximize satisfaction through the sales process.
KEVIN DAW is president of Heritage Coffee Co. (London, ON, Canada), a leading private-label roaster serving the breaktime management industries in North America. He is in charge of coffee buying for Heritage. A 30-year veteran of the workplace service business, Daw has served as a commission coffee service salesman, a principal of a vending operation and president of a bottled water company. Since 1990, he has concentrated on coffee roasting. Active in industry affairs, Daw is a Specialty Coffee Association of America Certified Brewing Technician, a member of the National Beverage and Products Association Hall of Fame, a recipient of the National Automatic Merchandising Association Supplier of the Year Award and a NAMA Coffee Service Committee member.
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Well, I'm a fiery little red head from A2 Michigan. I'm currently still in school, I love gaming, and being active. I am a brown belt (ikyu) in Judo and I love swimming and sailing. Art is one of my passions along with good food! Oh! And I am also a roller derby girl! I recently joined the Ann Arbor Derby Dimes and I'm loving every minute of it!
I started cosplaying back in 2007, and since then I have advanced greatly and I LOVE IT! My very first costume was my favorite character - Lina Inverse! Since then I have revised the costume numerous times, always finding ways to improve, but I never get tired of playing Lina. ^.^
One of my favorite things to do is curl up with a good book or a good movie when I'm all alone and just escape to a different world for a while. Oh and I'm a chocolate fiend.... if you ever find that I am in a funky mood or being grumpy, feed me chocolate and I'll be right as rain. ^.-
For anyone that hasn't read the book "Atlas Shrugged" by Ayn Rand, I encourage you to do so. You'll find the parallels quite amusing, considering she wrote the book in the 1940s.
- Terranell says, "Very cute Micaiah, I love Fire Emblem cosplay!"
- For Micaiah from Fire Emblem: Radiant Dawn


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Warm February
For those in the northern hemisphere, we are still shivering from our winter. Well it is getting warmer. According to NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration), the combined average temperature over global land and ocean surfaces for February 2013 tied with 2003 as the ninth warmest on record, at 0.57°C (1.03°F) above the 20th century average of 12.1°C (53.9°F). The global land surface temperature was 1.00°C (1.80°F) above the 20th century average of 3.2°C (37.8°F), tying with 2010 as the 11th warmest February on record. For the ocean, the February global sea surface temperature was 0.42°C (0.76°F) above the 20th century average of 15.9°C (60.6°F), making it the eighth warmest February on record. So despite some snow it is warmer than it used to be.
Global warming is the rise in the average temperature of Earth's atmosphere and oceans since the late 19th century and its projected continuation. Since the early 20th century, Earth's mean surface temperature has increased by about 0.8 °C (1.4 °F), with about two-thirds of the increase occurring since 1980.
Temperature changes vary over the globe. Since 1979, land temperatures have increased about twice as fast as ocean temperatures (0.25 °C per decade against 0.13 °C per decade). Ocean temperatures increase more slowly than land temperatures because of the larger effective heat capacity of the oceans and because the ocean loses more heat by evaporation. The northern hemisphere warms faster than the southern hemisphere because it has more land and because it has extensive areas of seasonal snow and sea-ice cover subject to ice-albedo feedback. Although more greenhouse gases are emitted in the Northern than Southern Hemisphere this does not contribute to the difference in warming because the major greenhouse gases persist long enough to mix between hemispheres.
It was much warmer than average across much of Mexico, Central America, northern South America, parts of Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. It was cooler than average across the southwestern United States, part of western Europe, Mongolia, and eastern Siberia, where some regions experienced record cold.
In the high northern latitudes, Iceland was "exceptionally warm" for February, according to the Icelandic Meteorological Office. The capital city of Reykjavic had its third warmest February in its 143-year period of record.
Finland was milder than average during February. Austria was 1.0°C (1.8°F) below the 1981–2010 average. Areas in the Alps were up to 4.1°C (7.4°F) colder than average.
Following its all-time record-warmest month in January, the February average maximum and minimum temperatures across Australia remained above the 1961–1990 average, though not as extreme as the previous month, ranking as the 16th and 35th warmest for February, respectively.
The February 2013 globally-averaged ocean temperature anomaly of 0.57°C (1.03°F) was the eighth warmest on record for February. Somewhat neutral conditions were present across the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean, with sea surface temperatures below average across the eastern half of the equatorial Pacific. According to NOAA's Climate Prediction Center, neutral conditions are favored into the Northern Hemisphere summer 2013.
In other regions, it was notably warmer than average across the equatorial Atlantic, Indian, and western Pacific Oceans, with record warmth observed in the Indian Ocean near parts of northern and southwestern Australia, the seas of Borneo to New Guinea, and some areas of the Arctic Seas.
The December 2012–February 2013 average seasonal temperature across the world's land and ocean surfaces was the 12th warmest on record for the period, at 0.51°C (0.92°F) above the 20th century average. With neutral conditions persisting during all three months in the eastern and central equatorial Pacific Ocean, the globally-averaged ocean surface temperature was the eighth warmest for December–February, with record-warm temperatures observed across the Indian Ocean near northwestern and southwestern Australia and some areas of the Arctic Seas.
Globally, the land surface temperature tied with 1992 as the 15th warmest December–February on record. There were differences between the hemispheres, however, with the Southern Hemisphere land observing its second warmest summer on record (0.98°C / 1.76°F above average) and the Northern Hemisphere land observing its 27th warmest winter on record (0.61°C / 1.10°F above average). It was cooler than average across parts of Siberia, Mongolia, northeastern China, parts of northern Canada, and much of the western United States.
For further information see State of the Climate.
Warming? image via Wikipedia.


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Youth wrestlers welcome to join the club
The Durango Youth Wrestling Club is looking for new members, and kids born between 1999 and 2008 of all sizes are welcome to join.
Practice will begin Tuesday in the wrestling room at Durango High School, and wrestlers can register that night if they havent already. Practices will continue every Tuesday and Thursday starting Feb. 5, with children born between 2005 and 2008 starting at 6:30 p.m. and those born between 1999 and 2004 at 7:30 p.m.
Cost is $45 for the first child and $35 for each additional child, and each family also is responsible for a $35 volunteer fee, which will be refunded after eight hours of volunteer time is accrued.
There also is a $7 weigh-in fee for each Saturday tournament. Tournaments will begin March 1 and last until April 13.
For more information, call Damian Marcum at 764-7877 or Jeanne Hicks at 749-0703.
DAYHA wants kids to Try Hockey for Free
The Durango Area Youth Hockey Association will host a Try Hockey for Free clinic for children between the ages of 4 and 9 at 11 a.m. Feb. 16 at Chapman Hill Ice Rink.
The clinic is part of USA Hockeys sixth-annual Hockey Weekend Across America, and its purpose is to allow children to experience hockey for the first time in a fun, safe environment.
To register for any of 200-plus Try Hockey for Free opportunities, visit www.tryhockeyforfree.com or contact Leah Miller at email@example.com.
Demons need a coach for their tennis team
Tennis, anyone?
Durango High School still is accepting applications for the Demons vacant girls varsity head coaching position.
The Demons girls tennis team plays in the spring; its season will start Feb. 25.
For more information, call DHS athletic director Sheldon Keresey at 259-1630, extension 2304, or email him at firstname.lastname@example.com.
Durango Herald