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Partners and Investors
At some time during the life of your business, you may need capital to start the company, continue the enterprise, or make it grow. This capital can come from a variety of sources, such as:
The purpose of this article is to assist you in deciding how to go about selling an equity interest in your business to investors and raise the capital you seek. This workbook is intended to be only a general discussion of this very complex topic; it is not a substitute for, and is not intended as, legal or financial advice. Any company contemplating a securities offering must obtain the advice of competent professionals.
This workbook discusses the essential issues that you may confront when you decide to bring in outside investors. Although most of the discussion centers around presenting a corporation to investors, the same issues challenge businesses organized as limited partnerships or limited liability companies.
This module covers:
I. Initial Considerations
Not all businesses - or business owners, for that matter - are attractive to or appropriate for outside equity investment. There are several important issues you must consider before bringing in third parties. For example, if you are not comfortable being second guessed when making pivotal decisions, having contractual limitations on decisions such as whether to incur debt or extend credit, and answering to your company's board of directors, outside investment will be a no-win situation for you.
Because some entrepreneurs are not suited to investors, there are numerous instances of long-term relationships have soured, families have been divided, and former friends have become bitter enemies. You must be honest with yourself at the outset. There are other appropriate funding sources available.
Strategic planning is also an important element to consider at the outset. Without a business plan, neither the business owner nor the investor knows where the business is going, how to value the business, or how to determine success, so be prepared to write an in-depth business plan that will be closely scrutinized.
For help in determining if taking on outside investors is right for you and your business, see Growing With Partners and Investors.
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II. Preparing for the Challenge
Before approaching anyone about investing in your business, you'll need to go through certain exercises and prepare certain documents that are "ready for inspection" by an outsider. The term "ready for inspection" means that you, with your accountant and attorney, have drafted, tested, challenged and redrafted a strategic business plan containing financial projections supported by reasonable assumptions, spelled out in detail. This business plan should be as perfect as humanly possible. It must be custom-designed for your business. A "cookie-cutter," one-size-fits-all, off-the-shelf model just will not do.
"Strategic planning" means just that: The business plan should show where you intend your business to go and how you intend to get there. Although preparing a business plan is a useful exercise for any business, it is a key element in any presentation to outside investors or other funding sources. The business plan should also contain a realistic picture of the status of the business, ambitious but attainable goals for the future, and an outline of the steps necessary to reach those goals. It should describe the markets the company is targeting, the realistic percentage of the market the company expects to capture, the costs of providing the company's product or service, the price at which the products or services can be sold, and the gross revenues and net profits the company expects to earn. The plan needs to show an intimate knowledge of your current and potential competitors, including their products, their strengths and their weaknesses. Please note that you must tailor the business plan to your own circumstances. Your professional advisors can assist you in that process.
There is nothing more annoying to a potential investor than to waste his or her time reading a business plan with many typographical errors. Beyond this obvious example, there are a number of things to double check before you distribute the business plan.
Use the following checklist to assist you:
During the development of your business plan, you may uncover weaknesses within your company that need to be addressed. Perhaps the management team is somewhat inexperienced, or perhaps the financial statements show a history of unpredictable results, or maybe it is unclear what the company's vision is. No matter what issues are uncovered, the time to correct them is now before you make a presentation to prospective investors: Add the appropriate team members, get your finances in order, and ensure you're giving off the appropriate impression. Some of these corrective actions may take longer than you'd hoped for, and in some cases, it may be necessary to delay approaching investors until you've had time to complete them.
Once the initial business plan is ready, you should allow your most skeptical advisors to review it and to find the holes in the plan. Ask them to look for unclear objectives and the unspoken assumptions. At this point, every statement of fact, every assumption of the projections and every calculation must be subjected to rigorous inspection, because once you present the plan to investors, it is too late to catch any mistakes. With many investors, you will have only one opportunity to state your case. If you fail because of a careless error or an unclear idea, you have lost that opportunity with that investor for good. Only a fraction of the good business ideas presented to investors are funded. Your goal must be to make it past the first round of scrutiny and get as far as the in-depth review.
Ask yourself the following questions to determine whether you are prepared to approach investors.
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III. Stalking Investors - Different Species and Different Diets
Finding investors is like hunting wild game: You need to learn where your preferred prey lives, what it consumes, and what attracts or repels it. Most importantly, you need to know what to use for bait! All hunting metaphors aside, this discussion assumes that you will prepare all the necessary legal documents to offer securities properly to investors.
Start-Up Capital
If your company is a start-up with limited or no assets or track record, investors will invest on the strength of their prior business or personal relationship with you. Although you must provide these investors with the full complement of information, they will look to you to make sure that their investment is safe. More than any other investors, they are investing in you. These persons are not investment professionals. Who are these "personal" investors? They can be:
On the positive side, these investors will not be relying on the business's record (or lack of one) to make their investment decision - they are counting on their experience with you. Although you should approach every investor in a business-like manner, the basis of the relationship will determine the manner in which you approach your investors. Simply put, you can invite family and friends into the deal in a less formal way than former employers, customers or other business acquaintances. Business relationships are extremely useful, since not only will a businessperson have a better appreciation of what you are trying to accomplish, but in light of their personal stake in your business, they may be able to recommend your business to others and be able to offer you practical advice.
In the minus column, personal investors, as stockholders, can be difficult to manage since they can sometimes believe that their personal relationship gives them rights not enjoyed by all stockholders. They may want you to guarantee their investment in some way. They may expect inside information on the company's progress. They may expect preferential rights if the company is sold or goes public. They may expect you to drop whatever you are doing when they call or they may stop by unexpectedly. The only way to handle these expectations is to nip them in the bud. As with all investors, choose them carefully.
In my experience, the worst investor in any deal was a distant relative of a business owner who initially begged to be a part of the business. This person pleaded to have the minimum investment requirement waived, then proceeded to badger the business owner, complain to other family members, and demand the investment back. The company offered a full return of the money invested, plus interest, which the investor declined in writing.
Unfortunately, this company fell on hard times, and the investor filed complaints with the securities authorities of the state, the consumer protection office and the Securities and Exchange Commission. Luckily, the company preserved all of its correspondence with the investor, so all of the complaints were dismissed. However, this investment cost the company far more than the money invested by the small investor.
Angel Investors
It is typically difficult to raise significant capital from one's family, friends and business acquaintances; therefore, when a company needs to expand or acquire a business, professional investors are vital. As a result, many business owners look to high net worth individuals who invest in speculative companies to bring their company to the next level. These "angel" investors are often successful businesspeople who have retired from active management of an entrepreneurial company they founded who want to make money and regain some of the excitement of a start-up business without necessarily being involved in its management.
Angel investors typically are willing to invest early in the life of a business, but they want to see significant investment of time, effort and financial resources by the entrepreneur. These types of investors usually keep their investments limited to specific areas of business in which they have some expertise. Angel investors often want significant control over how money is spent, a say in the company's choice of attorney and accountant, and at least one seat on the company's board of directors.
The route to angel investors is often through personal contacts in the business world, including attorneys, accountants and other investors. Many cities have groups of entrepreneurs that sponsor presentations by companies seeking investors. These meetings are a good source of contacts. As with the business plan, meticulous attention to detail is key, since these investors have numerous investment options and use these presentations to weed out the vast majority of possible investments.
Venture Capitalists
Venture capital investment has changed since the term was first coined. Initially, venture capital was regarded as early stage investment in start-up companies. As businesses and technology became more complex, and more established companies looked to raise venture capital funds, venture capital has evolved into a middle-stage financing option for companies that intend to go public or be acquired in a three- to five-year period. The term "venture capital" usually refers to investment funds managed by investment professionals specializing in evaluating growth companies in specific industries. Some large corporations also have venture capital investment arms. Venture capital firms solicit funds from investors with the object of investing these funds in emerging companies and benefit from their growth.
A number of directories list venture capital firms and are available at your public library. Most venture capital firms concentrate their investments in specific industries, which are noted in the directories. Because venture capital firms are listed in public directories, they tend to get substantially more financing proposals than they could possibly fund. Thus, venture capital funds tend to drive very hard bargains when it comes to financing. As a rule, venture capital firms demand (and get) substantial financial and management control. Venture capital firms generally look for 50 percent per year returns, with a definite exit strategy.
Some popular online VC directories include:
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IV. Information Required and Protecting Confidential Information
Now that you have staked out your prey, what do you use for bait? In other words, what information should you use to entice your prospective investor?
Earlier, we discussed writing a business plan. When soliciting funding from banks or venture capital funds and, to a lesser extent, angel investors the business plan is the essential document. We have also addressed the importance of accuracy and testing the information. If done well, the business plan will give an investor or lender a very good idea of your business concept, how you expect to profit, your proposed or current pricing structure, costs of materials and production, profit margins and overhead. Although this information is vital to allow an institution or sophisticated investor to evaluate your business, it would also be extremely valuable to any current or possible competitors. For this reason, you need to protect this information from unauthorized use, disclosure or reproduction.
As much as the product or service you sell, information is a valuable commodity. If you have done it right, you have spent substantial time, effort and legal and accounting fees drafting, revising and polishing your business plan. Before you release this information to anyone not already under an obligation to keep the information confidential, you must ask them to sign a confidentiality agreement, which requires them to keep the business plan and any other information you give them confidential. Such an agreement is designed to give you the ability to prevent unauthorized use of the information, or at least give you grounds for a lawsuit should that occur. Just as important, consistently requiring all persons who receive confidential information to sign confidentiality agreements proves your intention to keep the information confidential. A legal professional can assist you in developing an airtight confidentiality agreement.
In addition to a confidentiality agreement, but not in lieu of one, the most effective way to prevent unauthorized use of confidential information is to be very selective in the people to whom you give the information. You should distribute your business plan in numbered copies on a need-to-know basis. If a funding source declines to invest, you should request that the business plan and any supporting documents be returned.
If you are seeking equity financing (i.e., selling part ownership of the business in the form of stock) or debt financing from more than one source, your company is making an offering of securities, and compliance with the state and federal securities laws is required. (See Section IX: Securities Law Disclosure and Filing Requirements).
Depending on the type of investor you solicit, you may be required to prepare additional documents that contain disclosure required by law. You may also be required to file notices with federal and state securities authorities. Many of the requirements are highly technical and are beyond the scope of this discussion. You should consult a competent professional before making any offering of securities.
Approaching individual investors, as opposed to institutions for debt financing, requires compliance with state and federal securities laws. This is required whether you are seeking debt or equity financing. The types of disclosures required under federal and state law are determined by the types of persons you solicit and the amount you are seeking to raise. In its Small Business Initiatives, the SEC adopted rules to simplify the capital raising process and make it easier for small businesses to raise a limited amount of funds. As noted above, the technical requirements of federal and state law are beyond the scope of this discussion. However, note that the main requirements are full and fair disclosure of all material facts regarding the issuer and the risks of the investment, along with specified financial information.
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V. The Presentation
Assume your business plan has attracted the interest of an angel investor or venture capitalist, who now requests a meeting. How do you prepare yourself to distill a 75-page business plan into a 20-minute presentation? The answer is, you will have to omit extraneous details and present only the most essential points. They include:
Avoid the tendency to give a verbal version of your business plan. While it's important to touch on the key areas in your plan as listed above, your mission during this meeting is to give the investor a dynamic insight into your commitment to the business and the skills of your management team. It is also a time to highlight your business's growth potential, and the means by which you will accomplish your goals.
Experts agree that investors make their decisions based largely on personal factors namely whether they like and believe in your team so you'll want to establish trust right from the outset. Try to gain rapport immediately by maintaining a confident, friendly demeanor, normal eye contact, and good posture and body language. To convey a knowledgeable image, you'll want to avoid awkward silences or fidgeting caused by your inability to answer questions; if you can't provide an answer on the spot, tell the investor confidently you'll get back to him or her as soon as you return to your office. He will likely appreciate your honesty rather than your trying to make up an answer to appease him.
You should attend the meeting with the top three people who will play a key role in the business: the CEO, the VP of marketing and sales, and the VP of business development. Be sure these individuals are presented in the best possible light, emphasizing their relevant experience and education. Although each person may not have a chance to add to the presentation, it is important that they are present to answer any questions that may arise concerning their areas of responsibility. Please note: Not all investors will insist that you have a management team in place. If they believe strongly enough in your idea, they may provide an investment with the stipulation that they will appoint some key team members to run the business.
Many people liken the investor-business owner relationship to a marriage it is that serious and that personal. So resist the temptation during your presentation to make things sound better than they actually are or to hide embarrassing facts. The investor will eventually uncover any such untruths anyway when he or she conducts due diligence, and at that point, even minor fibs can break the deal. Most VCs agree that learning about negative issues up front will not deter them from making an investment if a company presents a good return on investment and if the management team has learned from their mistakes.
During your presentation, you must also give your potential investor a means to evaluate your success, including measurable goals and timetables, and a clear plan for how your company will repay his or her investment, with appropriate returns given the risk. Investors will want to know exactly how you plan to accomplish your objectives and, as a result, exactly what return they can expect on their money.
Finally, you will want to make sure your presentation has pizzazz so it stands apart from the hundreds of others that the investor likely sees in a year. Consider using various technical elements that will give it a polished, cutting-edge feeling. You can turn any standard presentation into a multimedia show for investors for less money than you might expect.
Checklist: Common Mistakes to Avoid in your Presentation
At this point, you will understand the importance of avoiding mistakes and having a third party review the plan for gaps and inconsistencies. It is possible to be quite embarrassed at meetings such as this if you have not done a superlative job with the business plan, the presentation and rehearsal.
Keep in mind that, as in any marriage, both parties must feel that the relationship is a good match. So if you don't hit it off with your potential investor or if you feel that your business philosophies do not match, you can and should continue to shop around until you find the right person.
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VI. Valuation Issues
One of the most difficult questions a business owner must ask is, "What is the value of my business to investors?" This is especially problematic in the case of a start-up business with no assets and no history of revenues, since there is no track record by which to value the business. One method, and by no means the only method, is to use the company's financial projections and base the valuation on the present value of the projected earnings, multiplied by the average market multiple for similar public companies, with a substantial discount because the business is not public. Another method is to base value on the value of existing companies in the same line of business. As a third option, the company can use the present value of the company's projected cash flow.
As should be apparent, there is no recognized standard of value. Because of this, it is important not to have the value appear arbitrary. You should state the basis for the valuation and be ready to defend it.
Once you have settled upon a reasonable value for your company, the rest of the math is easy. If the company were valued at $2,500,000, $500,000 would equal 20 percent of the company. That is where the bargaining begins.
For an expanded discussion on this topic, see Valuing a Business.
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VII. Negotiating the Deal
The terms of the deal are based on the relative strengths of the parties. To the extent that your company needs the investment urgently, you are at a disadvantage in dealing with investors. To the extent that you can say no to an investor, your company has leverage. Companies, especially startups, are in a better position dealing with personal investors rather than angel investors or venture capital firms. Generally, friendly investors will allow the company to set the terms, then they will either take it or leave it.
At the other extreme, venture capital firms generally drive extremely hard bargains when making investments. These firms do their own valuation analysis, which usually comes in less than that of the company. They may also require voting control, and set severe limitations on the company's ability to spend money, go into debt, or make other major management decisions. Many firms make their investments in stages, with greater equity going to the investor if the company does not achieve certain goals. Investments may be structured as a preferred stock, convertible at a formula into common stock, giving the investor greater control of the company if financial goals are not met. These formulae can be very complex. As a rule of thumb, most venture capital firms require a 50 percent return per year on the initial amount invested. These firms also often require liquidity within a definite period.
Somewhere in the middle lies the angel investors. They also drive a hard bargain when making investments, but their expectations and investment requirements can be idiosyncratic. Many want the right to nominate persons to the board of directors, or pick persons to fill certain positions, such as CFO or outside accountants or attorneys. Angel investors are usually less explicit as to their bottom-line requirements, which may vary from deal to deal. They usually want to be more involved in decision making, often taking on an advisory role. However, it is difficult to generalize.
No matter what type of investor you're dealing with, you can expect some intense negotiations, which are best handled by an attorney who can protect your best interests in the process.
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VIII. Legal Rights of Investors and Management's Responsibilities
The law of the jurisdiction in which the business is incorporated governs stockholder rights, and specific rights vary somewhat by state. Rights of equity owners in limited partnerships and limited liability companies also vary by state and are affected by the governing documents of the entity. In general, stockholders have the right to call an annual meeting if the board of the company fails to do so within a certain period. Stockholders have rights, determined by the company's formation documents, to vote for members of the board of directors and to vote on certain fundamental changes in the corporation, such as mergers, dissolution and the like. Founders have several mechanisms available to limit these rights before bringing in outside investors. Under certain circumstances, governed by state law, stockholders may also request a look at the company's books and records, and may request a list of stockholders.
More importantly, management has the responsibility to act as trustees for the investors' funds and must use such funds for the purposes disclosed to stockholders. Management must run the company for the good of all stockholders and not in a way to benefit particular stockholders (such as the founders). Management may not enrich themselves at the expense of investors, nor may management take business from the company for their own benefit. For example, suppose X Company manufactures bicycles, and Y Corp. proposes to buy them for a certain price. An officer or director of X Company may not go directly to Y Corp. and offer to sell the same bicycles for a cheaper price. If management misuses funds or otherwise violates its fiduciary duty to stockholders, stockholders may have a right to bring a lawsuit in their own names or on behalf of the corporation against management. These rights vary by state and are limited by recent federal law on stockholder suits brought under federal securities laws.
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IX. Securities Law Disclosure and Filing Requirements
As noted above, the company has the obligation to give prospective investors all material information regarding the company, its management, its proposed business and its uses for investors' funds, along with historical financial information. In addition, the company may not commit fraud by intentionally misstating information or omitting facts necessary to understand the investment. Federal securities laws as well as state securities and antifraud laws impose this requirement. Note that the disclosure required by the securities laws is different from the material in the business plan. The placement memorandum normally follows a prescribed format and places great emphasis on the risks of the investment. The technical requirements imposed by federal and state law are beyond the scope of this workbook.
Federal and state law provide several different exemptions, and the scope of required disclosure and filing requirements vary based on the amount sought to be raised, the financial status and sophistication of the investors, the states in which the investment is to be sold, and the methods used to sell the proposed investment. Federal and state laws may impose filing requirements before any offers or after sales are made. Laws and regulations may limit use of certain information, such as financial projections. In addition, securities laws are in constant flux due to amendments, administrative actions and case law interpretations. Please consult competent professionals before offering securities to any investors.
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X. Resources
James Arkebauer, "The McGraw-Hill Guide to Writing a High-Impact Business Plan," (McGraw-Hill, 1998)
Pratt & Bokser, "Pratt's Guide to Venture Capital Sources: 1998," (1998)
Patrick J. Coveny, "Business Angels: Securing Start-Up Finance," (John Wiley & Sons, 1998)
William Stolie, "Start-Up Finance: An Entrepreneur's Guide to Financing a New or Growing Business," (Career Press, 1997)
ACE-Net, the Angel Capital Electronic Network
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Copyright © 2004 Virtual Advisor, Inc.


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Treasury Launches Floating-Rate Notes With $15B Auction
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Get ready for floating-rate Treasuries. The Treasury Department just announced that it will auction $15 billion of 2-year notes on Jan. 29, marking its first new security offering since the advent of Treasury Inflation Protected Securities, or TIPS, back in 1997.
The move comes after interest rates rose sharply last year, putting an abrupt end to a 30-year bond bull market and giving investors a taste of interest-rate risk in the form of price losses that hit existing fixed-rate bonds when rates rise. Floating-rate investments, which pay coupons that can adjust based on prevailing market rates, saw a surge of investor interest, but such product offerings tended to be limited to riskier forms of debt like bank loans. Now investors can bypass the credit risk and get floating-rate debt straight from the government.
Still, they'll only be offered in 2-year maturities for now and will remain a niche product. Bank of America Merrill Lynch rates strategists today said money-market funds will likely represent the largest investor base for Treasury FRNs. BofA added that it expects the FRN program to succeed two of its stated aims: helping the Treasury expand its investor base and supporting its debt-management goal of extending the average maturity of Treasury debt.
Floating-rate notes "bring additional diversity to Treasury's current portfolio and help support our goal of saving taxpayer dollars by financing the government's borrowing needs at the lowest cost over time," said Mary Miller, the Treasury Department's under secretary for domestic finance, in a statement, adding that the program has been in the works for three years. The Treasury said it expects to auction additional new FRN securities quarterly in April, July, and October.

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There's some major news about La Jolla Playhouse's upcoming world-premiere musical "Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots," one of the most buzzed-about new musicals to open in the U.S. this year. And it involves an actor who'll be a familiar face to Playhouse (and Broadway) regulars.
Director Des McAnuff, the two-time former Playhouse artistic chief who created "Yoshimi" with the rock band The Flaming Lips, has confirmed that Paul Nolan will play the prime role of Ben in the production.
Nolan was last seen at the Playhouse as the title character in McAnuff's production of "Jesus Christ Superstar," a show that originated at Canada's Stratford Shakespeare Festival (the director's current artistic home) and had a La Jolla run before transferring to Broadway.
"Paul Nolan has been a pretty major young player here -- I would say our most prominent (young) leading man," McAnuff said in a phone chat Wednesday morning. "He has really blossomed not only as a musical-theater performer but as a classical actor.
"In all honesty, he was obvious casting for the part of Ben. I was spurred on to make an offer to Paul simply because he's so in-demand right now."
The Playhouse has not yet officially announced any casting for "Yoshimi," which begins previews Nov. 6 and runs through Dec. 16. That includes the title role in the show, which takes its name from the 2002 Lips album (although music from other recordings also is being incorporated into the piece). The theater says it hopes to announce the full cast by the end of this week.
The musical is centered on Yoshimi, a Japanese-American artist whose battle against a serious illness morphs into a fantastical war against (as the title song goes) the "evil-natured robots" who are out to destroy her.
The character of Ben, a computer graphics designer, is "one of the two major male roles in the piece," McAnuff says, along with another character, Booker. "I think a casting director or producer would call (Ben) the first male lead."
The musical's story is officially credited to McAnuff and Lips leader Wayne Coyne, with music and lyrics by The Flaming Lips. Besides directing, McAnuff also gets a "conceived by" credit.
But "this is really a theater piece based on the music and lyrics of The Flaming Lips. I want to be very clear (that) I consider Wayne Coyne to be the principal creator, because he wrote the music the show is based on.
"It's a sung-through musical, by and large, so I'm not sure we'll even credit a book anyway."
McAnuff also says that while "this is very much a developmental production," it'll be a fully fleshed-out show, and the team is going "full-tilt boogie" on creating the extensive, sci-fi minded effects.
Meantime, McAnuff is wrapping up his final season as artistic director at Stratford, although he'll return next year as director of the festival's revival of "The Who's Tommy," the show that helped rocket McAnuff to stardom after it went from the Playhouse to a Tony-winning New York run in the early 1990s.
McAnuff says that at some point he'd probably like to run another arts institution. But for now "I definitely want to catch my breath," he says. "I have independent projects I want to concentrate on."
(And because we had to ask: As much as he misses San Diego, McAnuff says it is extremely unlikely he'd throw his hat in the ring for the artistic-director post at the crosstown Old Globe Theatre, which plans to announce a new artistic chief this fall. In fact, his reaction to the idea: "God, that would create a (snow)storm, I think!")
But "I'm so excited about coming back to San Diego," says the director, who last month wed his longtime partner, Bryna McCann. "The timing is so wonderful; I've really enjoyed this run at Stratford tremendously, but I'm really looking forward to this next chapter.
"And what better way than to come home to La Jolla Playhouse?"


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We are so excited about Tim Holtz 2009 12 Tags of Christmas that we can hardly stand it! Above you will see his 12 Tags of Christmas for 2008. Aren't they awesome! This is a great way to get creating with Tim!
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PRINCETON — There's no good news when it comes to revenue for the Princeton Elementary School District, according to Superintendent Tim Smith.
At this week's meeting of the PES Board, Smith said dwindling revenue continues to be the problem for the district. The board has issued $3,055,000 in working cash bonds to cover the operating funds, but that money has to stretch over the next three years.
"What concerns me is can we save fast enough," Smith said. "This is nothing new, but it is way more severe than I even anticipated. I don't see any improvement anytime soon."
Contributing to the revenue problem, Smith said the district will see a "significant reduction" in local tax money with the local extension projected to be $180,000 less this year due to a decrease in the district's equalized assessed valuation.
Also, the state of Illinois continues to be behind in its payments to the district in the education and transportation funds, Smith said. PES has received some recent payments, but more than $400,000 is still owed the district. Hopefully, additional payments will be received in coming weeks, he said.
In response, board member Terry O'Neill said it's a sad statement when the board is somewhat encouraged that only $400,000 is owed the district by the state. Unfortunately, the state owing money to the district appears to be the new norm, he said.
In summarizing the revenue problem, Smith said the district is operating at the same revenue level in the education fund, the largest fund of the budget, as it did in 2006.
"There is absolutely no good news as it relates to revenue," Smith said."Every line of the revenue side of the budget has been impacted negatively. I can not find a positive."
On the expense side of the budget, the district is running about a half of a percentage point better in the education fund than it was a year ago. Expenses in the transportation fund are a bit higher than a year ago because the district bought a couple school buses and paid for them up front. The rest of the funds are running about the same as last year at this time. Hopefully, the district will be able to sustain its level of expenses, Smith said.
In other business at Monday's meeting, Smith and Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction Barb Valle addressed the changes coming to the Illinois Standard Achievement Test (ISAT) standards and how those changes will affect local test scores for the next three years. This year's ISAT will be based 20 percent on the new Common Core State Standards, adopted by Illinois and 44 other states, with that percentage increasing each year.
As reported earlier, Valle has said the new Common Core Standards will have a major impact on the way students learn, as well as what they learn. The focus will be on the mastery and application of skills and not simply the memorization of facts. The students will learn fewer, deeper and richer skills, rather than having more information at a surface level, she said.
During the transition time into the Common Core State Standards, local test scores can not be considered an accurate picture of how well teachers are teaching and students are learning, Valle told the PES Board. Once the transition is completed in three years, PES can start charting the academic growth of its students again, she said.
Comment on this story at www.bcrnews.com.


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Artwork 14/14
The "Chloe" is a designer table lamp made of solid wood bent laminate, originally designed in 2010.
This version is made of walnut and has a white lamp shade. They make for great table lamps for living room or bedroom or office.
It has a single dimmable socket for use with a standard incandescent or compact fluorescent light bulb (not included).
Dimensions: 30 inches high and the shade makes the total diameter 18 inches.
Shipping charges are $55 to the "lower 48" US States. There are no boxing or handling charges.
Please contact us for a quote for shipping outside the"lower 48".
- Color and exact grain pattern will vary slightly from that which is pictured, as each piece is individually made by hand and no 2 pieces of wood are exactly alike.
- Please allow 2-3 weeks before lamp is shipped.
- Custom sizes and woods are available. Please contact us for a quote.


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New Jersey Driver's License & Permit FAQ
How Can I Apply for my NJ Driver's License? Frequently Asked Questions
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What age can I apply for my permit in New Jersey?The state of New Jersey allows you to apply for your learner's permit as early as age 16.
What documents do I need to bring when applying for my license in New Jersey?Besides the $10 permit fee, you are required to bring documents that will verify your identity. When you go to apply for your permit, you must supply documents that equal 4 points on the verification scale. These will be documents such as a birth certificate or US passport. Once you get ready to take the road test, you must supply documents that equal 6 points on the verification scale. The 6 point ID verification documents must meet 4 requirements:
- A Primary ID
- A Secondary ID
- A Verifiable Social Security Number
- Proof of Address
Where do I go to apply for my driver's license in NJ?When you're ready to apply for your license, go to your local Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) office to begin.
How do I contact the nearest NJ MVC office?The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission welcomes all inquiries. Just call 888-486-3339 or go online to http://www.nj.gov/mvc/.
Who needs to bring me for my permit test in NJ?A licensed driver age 21 or older should bring you.
Is a physical required to get a permit in NJ?No physical is needed when getting a permit in New Jersey. The MVC medical unit only steps in when it is necessary to examine those who have particular medical issues that may cause a threat to other drivers on the road.
Is a vision test required when applying for the NJ driver's license?Of course it is. You must take a vision test at the MVC office and score 20/50 acuity in at least one eye with or without glasses/contacts. If you fail the test, you will have to visit your eye doctor and have him or her fill out Form ST-14.
Where can I get a photo for my NJ driver's license taken?There's only one place you will be allowed to take a driver's license picture and that is at the MVC office.
What colors should I avoid wearing when taking picture for my license?There are no colors you should avoid. Wear what ever color you like!
Do I need to put up hair when taking driver's license photo?You may wear your hair the same way you would normally wear it; however, it should not be covering your face or your eyes. The purpose of the photo is to be able to identify who you really are. Besides, you would not want to hide that amazing face!
What make-up to wear when I get my NJ driver's license picture taken?Wear your normal make-up; however, the less make-up the better. As long as you are not wearing so much make-up to where you are unrecognizable, you will be fine!
Why is it best not to smile when taking your drivers license picture?Some states are moving towards face recognition technology that will be able to uniquely identify each individual. A straight face on the photo helps distinguish who you really are. This is all in an effort to stop fraud.
What are some tips for getting the best out of the driver's license picture?Look straight into the camera and keep a calm and relaxed face!
I have already applied for my New Jersey license, what do I do next?If you have already applied for your license that means you have your permit. If that is the case, your next step will depend on your age:
- If you are 16:
You must hold your learner's permit for at least 6 months. During this time, you may only drive with a licensed driver age 21 or older in the car with you. You should also be enrolled in a driving school. If after 6 months you are ready to move forward and you have reached the age of 17, you may apply for a probationary license.
- If you are 17 or older:
You must wait at least 6 months after receiving your permit before you may schedule a road test. Once you obtain your probationary license, you are required to have it for at least 1 year. During this time, you're under restricted but unsupervised driving. You must display a reflectionized decal on your front and back license plate. You aren't allowed to drive with more than one person in the car under 21 and you may not drive between the hours of 5am and 11pm.
- If you are 16:
I have a question that's not answered above. What do I do?If you can't find the answer to your question above, please use our Beginner Driver Q & A Section to get a professional answer from our experts! If you need any further assistance, you're welcome to contact us directly at firstname.lastname@example.com.
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Here's What Other Learners from NJ Are Saying:
"I failed the written test the first time I tried, but after studying the tests on this AWESOME site, I passed it with only 3 questions wrong, on my 22nd birthday. This tool ROCKED. Thanks so much!"Tom R., Newark, NJ
"Took the test today for the first time and passed. This is really helpful, thanks driving-tests.org! People, remember that during the test you can skip questions. Dont try to guess if you haven't read all the quetions, otherwise you can fail even before you read questions that you would know the answer."Joao Pedro W., Jersey City, NJ
"First I recommend that you read the driver's manual. It will give you the base you need to take the practice tests. Then you can take all of the Practice tests until you pass them with at least 98%. You'll be ready to go! Took my test at South Plainfield and finished within 10 minutes of starting! Also remember to skip questions you do not know, as they won't show up later and you only need to get 40 questions correct to pass."Kristine K., Paterson, New Jersey
"This site was helpful for me to get 70% mark and the remainder 10% could be earned by common sense. I missed couple of GDL related questions with 'Display a reflectorized decal' 'Only one additional passenger is allowed unless accompanied by a parent or guardian' as answers. Complete all the tests from this site, you should be able to clear the test in first attempt."Suneesh M., Elizabeth, New Jersey
"This is the #1 site that helped me pass my CDL test in Wayne, NJ"Sergio L. La P., Edison, New Jersey
"This is one of the most useful website for future and present drivers. Probably this is the only website of its kind. I recommend this site to everyone."Kalam Chowdhury, Jersey City, NJ
"Thank you soo much. Im so soo happy.I took my written test today and guess what, I passed. I was crying of happiness!!!!!! This site was so helpful to me. I study really hard, didn't need the drivers manual. This is an amazing site. Pretty much all the questions that are here are the same ones on the real test. Thank you again for helping me reach my goal of passing. This is a beginning of good things coming, and all thanks to you. I recommended 100%."Lily Rodriguez, NJ
"I passed the DMV exam in the first attempt. Yaaaayyy! Thank you for all these practice tests. These questions on these tests were quite close to the actual DMV test. Actually I read the driver's manual cover to cover. At first the sight of the 212 page manual was so overwhelming but then I made it a point to diligently read at least 20 pages or 1 chapter each day and finished reading the book in about 8 - 10 days. Post that I took the mock tests online and get a hang of it. Reading the manual would save a person multiple trips to the DMV for the re-tests, waiting in the queue and then going through the process all over again. Thank you again."Nim Rozario, NJ
"Started my Drivers' Ed class back in November in school, and while I took it pretty seriously, I never actually studied. Earlier in January I started doing so, hearing about a bunch of online practice permit tests. I couldn't ever find any great one, until I found this site. It's really awesome, and without it I couldn't have possibly gotten a score of 92 (46-4), highest in my entire school :D If you're looking for a place for practice permit tests, the multitude of questions here coming from all over the manual are definitely what you need!"Carl T, NJ
"First time when I took the test I had no preparation except some memories from my Phys. Ed class about driving. I failed first time but I knew failure is the pillar of success. So first I took the tests on this website again again and again and I went through NJ Driver's Manual book. Finally I passed the test in my second chance and all the question seemed known to me and I was so fast. Thank you driving-tests.org"Mizan Chowdhury, NJ
"I've been studying for weeks. I'm not going to lie I was nervous because I'm 23 years old should have had my license but I was afraid of failing the test. I know you can take it multiple times but I have been the person who wants to pass one and done. I went today had to wait from 9am-12pm but when I took the test I got the first 27 questions right and skipped the rest then I guessed the rest because enough studying is not enough. Long story short I PASSED 40-6. THANK YOU DRIVING-TESTS.ORG"Derrick Ward, NJ
"I just passed my written test (New Jersey) and had my first lesson thanks to you guys!! "Greg Artman, New Jersey
"My brother told me this would help after I took all 5 I went to take it the next day and passed! "Hayley Gilbert, New Jersey
"Obviously the questions weren't exact but they were very similar to the ones I saw on the real test. It gave me the "correct or incorrect" feedback like the real test. I took your practice tests multiple times and passed several of them. I passed my MVC knowledge test the very first time I took it and this was a much more helpful study method then just memorizing the manual."Deane Heinzer, New Jersey
"Started using this website two days before my written test, opened the manual ONCE didn't really study just looked up things that i thought would help me memorize (which wasn't helpful) after consistently taking these tests with a grade of 38 or better knowing that all of these questions weren't going to be on my test i passed my test all because of this website with just taking practice tests for two days writing down the one i got wrong and remembering. This site is very useful THANKS ALOT!! btw never took drivers ed either!"T Lyle, New Jersey
"The day i started practicing for my test with this site i prayed that i would get to post a success story after i took my test for the first time. I am finally doing that! I took my test yesterday for the first time and passed all because of this site. I didn't study the manual which i do not recommend but I'm being honest, it was confusing. I found this site and studied all the tests several times and made sure i passed them all. I went and took the test yesterday and only got 3 wrong! It was all because of this site. It really prepared me and i found the test super easy and finished it in 20 minutes i am really glad!"Alexia Del Valle, NJ
"I took the test. And I passed it. Tada."Jim D, New Jersey
"I cannot recommended this website enough - to pass the test please read the manual once, and then go through each one of these practice tests at least 3-4 times and then do the marathon test the same times and your chances of passing will be extremely high. Wrote my exam and passed with just 1 wrong answer. Had to come here and thank this website for SURE! I did read the manual but I must say that 90% of the credit goes to taking the tests on this website. I took each test multiple times, till the information was stored in my head - and on the MVC test the questions were remarkably similar! In fact only 1-2 questions that I remember thinking at the time that I did not see them in the tests here. Thank you for this website!"D.N., NJ
"Just got back from the test and the good news is I passed. This site was very helpful, as others said the questions are similar. Except I got a few questions on probationary license. Study from the book also, it helps just as much."Camille S, NJ
"I read the book and did not pass my first test. After my wife found this website I was able to practice at home with more confidence and I passed the second time with no problem. Practice test questions are similar to real test questions. "James Martinez, New Jersey
"It is said that "Success is basically a Routine". And yes it really happened with me friends. I read MVC manual thoroughly in 3 days and attempted all Practice tests from this site for 4 days. These tests are really really very helpful. I went to MVC yesterday and gave Permit Test for the First time. I passed the test in first attempt. Thanks to this site for giving such a great practice for MVC Permit Test and providing knowledge. Believe me friends you follow the same pattern like I did, you will surely pass the test easily. After all "Practice makes man Perfect"!!"Prajakta Adivarekar, NJ
"I took my test & passed!!! Thank you guys! Your website is amazing :)"Malachi R, New Jersey
"I was SO nervous to take my written test, especially because I hadn't taken a drivers ed course in high school yet. However, I studied my butt off and took these tests for a while, and oh my god did they help me! I would strongly recommend reading the book first, but these tests were very helpful!! Thank you so much, 100% would recommend!"Dana Nicole, New Jersey
"Great site! Passed the test! I fully recommend this site 100%! Thank you :)"Austin P, NJ
"I was one of seven people in my high school Drivers ed class that passed the permit test. I couldn't have done it without practicing and learning from the practice tests on this website."Suhas Vittal, NJ
"I never had any experience with driving & I have been planning to write the knowledge test since long time and finally a day came when I was ready to prepare for the exam ... I had initially started preparing with the MVC Driver's Manual but then I found it to be too vague .. So I browsed through and found this website to take practice tests ... The first 2 to 3 times I couldn't pass the exam in this website the questions were very tough, but when I took the test for more than 5 to 10 times (I mean each set of questions starting from 1 to signs and practices) I was able to pass the exam ... The main thing is to review the tests you take so that we will get to know where we are making mistakes. Then I went back to the MVC Driver's Manual and continued to prepare, I found it to be really interesting to study the materials after taking the practice tests here ... And today finally I went to the MVC office and and wrote the knowledge test and yes I did pass the test the first time and have the special driver's permit ... Feeling really happy and so curious to learn driving ... In matter of 2 weeks I cleared the test. Driving-tests.org, thanks a lot your practice tests they really helped me out today !"Britt D, NJ
"I found this site and studied for a day taking the tests for hours, next day took my test and I passed! Very helpful and the questions are pretty accurate! Thanks!"Dawn Stukel, New Jersey
"I am very happy because I passed my driving test today. This website is very helpful. All questions were from this website. thank you so much."Usha Rathod, New Jersey
"Oh, if it wasn't for your help I would have failed. You guys are a life saver just like the candy haha. But I passed with a 100 because I took every practice test you guys had posted on your site. I don't know how to repay you for your help. I really appreciate and will spread the word about your amazing site. Sincerely, THE NEW DRIVER ON THE ROAD!"Nick Peist, NJ
"We (me and my wife) practiced it for couple of hours and got our license :-)."Vivek Vijayarajan, NJ
"I did extensive test practice in this site and practiced all tests. When wrote exam @ MVC, it was just like another practice test in this site. Finished exam in 20 min with still 7 questions to answer. Thank you https://driving-tests.org, such an amazing site. I strongly recommend this site. "Narayan Kumar, NJ
"Just took my test today in Plainfield I found it easy as anything ....I highly recommend people to study from this site and practise these test...u will see questions directly from here ....I got 40 on 40 in the exam !!"Neel Grover, NJ
"This test was harder than the actual permit test and very in depth, I passed with flying colors in addition to reading the book. It helped me with learning about the road. PS: I took all the tests at least 3 to 5 times before I went."B Max, NJ
"I just took the test yesterday and passed. This web site is the best. Please if you using this site do all your tests until you passed them all with at least with 98. If you do so there is no way you going to fail."Cornellie CBL, NJ
"Really this website is amazing, after I fail in the first exam I practice all exams here and I pass, but still you need to read the driver manual because this web site give you 70%of questions (and its the same questions in the website) but the other 30% from the driver manual, I do recommend to practice the available exam in this website first and then read the manual."Omar Tabasi, NJ
"These are an awesome collation of almost real like questions. I went through all the tests like a bible. I practised again and again and it automatically fit into my system till I was getting almost 100% in all the tests. One day before the test, I went through all the tests once again to gain my confidence. On test date Oct 09, 2014 - I sat on the computer and finished the test in 8.03 seconds. 40 right questions from 41 answered. And I shouted yeah. Everybody started looking at me and the MVC lady said - wow, did you really take the test and smiled. Thanx to you guys. It's awesome. Keep up the good work. "Harry S., NJ


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First Trimester
Physical Changes and Symptoms of the First Trimester
- Fatigue
- Nausea and Vomiting ("Morning Sickness")
- Urinary Frequency
- Breast Tenderness
- Headaches and Dizziness
- Weight Gain
Pregnancy typically lasts 40 weeks, beginning from the first day of a woman's last menstrual period which means that it includes the two weeks before ovulation and conception takes place. It is often referred to in three parts called trimesters. The first trimester lasts 12 weeks, the second from 13 to the end of 27 weeks, and the third from 28 to 40 weeks. These divisions are somewhat arbitrary and you may encounter slightly different versions of these time periods during your pregnancy. Your doctor will probably refer to your pregnancy by the age of the fetus in weeks.
Certain important milestones in pregnancy occur during each trimester. For example, specific tests are performed during the first trimester. The trimester divisions help both you and your doctor in the planning and management of your pregnancy.
The first trimester is a time of profound changes inside your body, and you'll experience these changes in your own unique way. Some women know right away that they have conceived, whereas others may not be convinced that they're pregnant even after a positive pregnancy test and confirmation by their physician. The first trimester may bring increased energy and a sense of well being. Some women may feel tired and emotional. Others may not notice changes until much later in pregnancy.
Physical Changes and Symptoms of the First Trimester
There are a number of physical changes during early pregnancy that may make you uncomfortable, but will not endanger your health or the health of your baby. Each pregnancy is unique, and you may experience many, some, or none of the changes and symptoms described here. It isn't uncommon for a woman to have completely different experiences from one pregnancy to another. It doesn't mean there is anything wrong with the pregnancy, but rather demonstrates the variation in pregnancies. Knowing what the symptoms mean, in terms of what is happening inside your body, and knowing what you can do to make yourself more comfortable will help you cope with the adjustments in early pregnancy. If this is not your first pregnancy, you may notice some changes are occurring earlier. This is sometimes referred to as the "warming up" effect.
1) Fatigue
Most women are more tired than usual in early pregnancy. This feeling is understandable: Your body has a lot of work to do. During the first weeks of pregnancy, your body begins to produce more blood to carry nutrients to the fetus. Your heart multiplies its efforts to accommodate this increased blood flow, and your pulse quickens by as much as 10 to 15 beats per minute. Your body changes the way it uses water, protein, carbohydrate and fat. The combination of these profound changes translates into the fatigue you feel.
In addition to the physical changes that make you feel tired, you are also adjusting to new feelings and concerns. Whether your pregnancy was planned or unplanned, you may have conflicting feelings about it. Even if you are overjoyed at being pregnant, there are probably added emotional stresses in your life at this time. You may have fears about whether the baby will be healthy, anxiety about how you will adjust to motherhood, and concerns about increased expenses. If your work is demanding, you may worry about being able to sustain your productivity throughout pregnancy. These concerns are natural and normal. It is important to recognize that they also play a part in how you feel physically.
Controlling Fatigue
Rest. Try to get the rest you need. After the birth of your baby, your lifestyle is sure to change, and there are adjustments you can make even now. In addition to eating well and avoiding the harmful effects of smoking and alcohol, you should find ways to feel as rested as possible.
Take naps when you can during the day. At work, finding time to rest comfortably with your feet up can renew your energy. If you can't nap during the day, maybe you can do so right after work, before dinner or evening activities. If you have a partner or other children, ask them to help as much as possible.
Also, cut down on social events if they are wearing you out. Those who care about you will understand and will be more than happy to make allowances for you. Ask for the support and understanding that you need during this time, keeping in mind that you will almost certainly have more stamina in later pregnancy.
If you need to go to bed at 6:30 or 7:00 to feel rested, do it. It may also help if you avoid drinking fluids for a few hours before bedtime so you won't have to get up as frequently during the night to empty your bladder.
Exercise. One of the best ways to increase your energy level is to exercise. The more you exercise, the more energy you seem to have to continue exercising, as well as to perform your daily tasks. For example, walking for 30 minutes each day can really help you feel energized. See the Frequently Asked Questions-Exercise in Pregnancy for more guidance.
Eat well. Eating a balanced diet is even more important when you're pregnant than it was before. The fatigue that is natural in early pregnancy can be aggravated if you're not getting enough iron or protein. Check with your health care provider to make sure your diet is nutritious and balanced. Look at the Food Guide Pyramid.
2) Nausea and Vomiting ("Morning Sickness")
"Morning sickness" can actually occur at any time of the day, and it affects nearly 3 out of 4 pregnant women. The symptoms of nausea and vomiting usually begin within the first month or two of the pregnancy and end 3-1/2 to 4 months into the pregnancy. Throughout your pregnancy, your body will continue to undergo tremendous physical, hormonal, and emotional change. Hormonal changes that come with pregnancy contribute somewhat, as do changes in your gastrointestinal system- the stomach empties a little more slowly under the influence of the hormones of pregnancy. Emotional stress and fatigue can also add to your feelings of "morning sickness."
Morning sickness can be more severe in a first pregnancy, in young women and in women carrying multiple fetuses. Some women have nausea and vomiting beyond the first trimester, and a few even throughout their entire pregnancy. In rare instances, nausea and vomiting may be so severe that a pregnant woman cannot maintain proper nutrition and fluids or gain enough weight. This condition is known as hyperemesis gravidarum.
Controlling Nausea and Vomiting
Modify your eating habits. Eating smaller meals more frequently throughout the day often helps alleviate nausea. Drinking less fluid with meals may also provide relief. The reason for these measures is to avoid having your stomach completely empty or completely full, either of which can make nausea worse.
Eat morning snacks. If nausea is worse when you first wake up, try nibbling on soda crackers or sipping weak tea before you get out of bed. Rise slowly, allowing a little time to digest before you get up.
Rest. The fatigue that is so common in early pregnancy can also contribute to nausea. Additional sleep each night may help. Avoid displeasing smells and foods. Many women find certain smells or foods unpleasant when they are pregnant, even if they had no such reactions before. Whenever possible, try to avoid foods or smells that seem to aggravate your nausea.
Other Possible Remedies for Nausea and Vomiting:
- It may be possible to alleviate nausea with an over-the-counter antacid. Speak to your healthcare provider first before taking these drugs. Some types of antacids can cause fluid buildup.
- Vitamin B6 is believed to be a remedy for nausea. However, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider before taking a vitamin supplement during pregnancy.
- Some women report success in using acupressure to combat nausea. Motion-sickness bands are one method of acupressure – they exert a steady pressure on the inside of the wrist.
3) Urinary Frequency
The increasing size of the uterus in the first trimester, along with more efficient functioning of the kidneys, may cause you to feel the need to urinate more often. You may also experience leaking of urine when sneezing, coughing or laughing. This is due to the growing uterus pressing against your bladder, which lies directly in front of and slightly under the uterus during the first few months of pregnancy. By the fourth month, the uterus will have expanded up out of the pelvic cavity, so that the pressure on your bladder is not as great.
Controlling Urinary Frequency
You may find that if you avoid drinking anything for a few hours before bedtime you will get up less often — and sleep better — throughout the night. It is not a good idea, though, to otherwise restrict your fluid intake during pregnancy.
Urinate as often as you feel the need. Holding in your urine can result in incomplete emptying of the bladder, which may in turn lead to a urinary tract infection. Leaning forward while you urinate will help to empty your bladder more fully. Completely emptying the bladder may also have the added benefit of cutting down on how often you need to urinate. If you leak urine throughout the day, wearing panty liners will make you more comfortable.
4) Breast Tenderness
The increased production of the hormones estrogen and progesterone is the primary reason for the changes in a pregnant woman's breasts. After a few weeks of gestation, you may notice tingling sensations in your breasts, and they may feel heavy, tender and sore.
Controlling Breast Tenderness
A good support bra can help alleviate breast soreness. Try a maternity bra or a larger-sized athletic bra; they tend to be breathable and comfortable. If you have large breasts that make you uncomfortable at night, you might want to try wearing a bra while sleeping.
5) Headaches and Dizziness
Occasional headaches trouble many women in early pregnancy. The cause is uncertain, but like so many other discomforts of the first trimester, changes in your hormone levels and blood circulation may be factors. Other possible causes are the stress and fatigue that often accompany the emotional and physical adjustments to pregnancy. If you suddenly eliminated or cut down on caffeine once you learned you were pregnant, this change may also cause headaches for a few days.
Dizziness is common in pregnant women and can result from circulatory changes during pregnancy. Blood settles (pools) in the lower limbs more readily in pregnancy which makes the heart's job of pumping blood to the brain more difficult. At times, the amount of blood may not be sufficient and lead to lightheadedness or even fainting. Stress, fatigue and hunger may also be causes of dizziness or faintness. Although headaches and dizziness at this point in your pregnancy may be nothing to be concerned about, call your doctor right away if these symptoms are persistent or severe. Migraine-like, throbbing headaches or fainting spells should also prompt you to call your doctor immediately.
Controlling Headaches and Dizziness
Sinus headaches can be soothed by applying warm compresses to the front and sides of your face, around your nose, eyes and temples. Applying a cold compress to the back of the neck may relieve tension headaches.
Relaxation exercises can help alleviate headaches as well as give you a greater overall sense of well being. These exercises may consist of simply closing your eyes and imagining a calm, peaceful scene. Eating well and getting enough rest and exercise are also important.
It is easier said than done, but minimizing the stresses in your life will help get you through the first trimester, as well as the rest of pregnancy. Some sources of stress, however, cannot be avoided. The key is to improve your coping skills. If you are under more stress than you feel you can handle, talking with a therapist or counselor, even if only on a one-time basis, can be very helpful.
Talk to your doctor before using pain relievers, even over-the-counter medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen sodium (Advil, Ibuprin, Motrin IB, Nuprin, Aleve). Acetaminophen (Aspirin Free Excedrin, Panadol, Tylenol) is a better choice during pregnancy, but it is best to avoid taking any medication during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary, and only when prescribed or advised by your doctor.
To prevent mild, occasional dizziness, move slowly as you get up from lying or sitting down. When on your feet, keep moving. By moving and contracting the leg muscles, you are helping force blood back to the heart. Try to keep your blood sugar level on an even keel by snacking occasionally on food such as dried or fresh fruit, whole-wheat bread, crackers or low-fat yogurt.
6) Weight Gain
Although you will probably gain about 25 to 30 pounds (11 to14 kilograms) during the course of your pregnancy, only a small percentage of this amount will be gained during the first trimester. You may experience few signs of pregnancy and gain only 3 to 4 pounds.
During the first trimester, you may find it difficult to believe you are pregnant. Yet, the first 3 months of pregnancy are critical to your baby's health. During this time the baby will grow to 3 inches long and will have developed all of the major organs. Untreated illness or disease, radiation, or the use of tobacco, drugs, or alcohol during this time may harm your baby. Make sure you eat well, rest, and avoid taking any medication that has not been prescribed by your doctor. Tell any doctor, nurse, or dentist you visit that you are pregnant. Prenatal care, good nutrition, and adequate rest should be started immediately.
Glimpses at the First Trimester
First and Second Month
For the first eight weeks your developing baby is called an "embryo." The heart, lungs, and brain begin to develop and the tiny heart beats by the 25th day. The embryo is enclosed in a sac of fluid to protect it from bumps and pressure. The baby will grow in this sac until birth. Your baby's umbilical cord is also developing. This cord is made up of blood vessels that carry nourishment from your body to feed the baby and carry away the baby's waste.
Gestational Age Five Weeks
At five weeks, your baby is about 1/17 of an inch long (1.5 mm). The embryo has divided into three layers from which tissues and organs will develop.
A groove, called the neural tube, has begun to take shape in the top layer, along the midline of the body. The brain, spinal cord, spinal nerves and backbone will develop from this region.
The middle layer of cells forms the beginnings of the heart and a primitive circulatory system – blood vessels, blood cells and lymph vessels. The foundations for bones, muscles, kidneys, and ovaries or testicles also develop from the middle layer of cells.
By the end of this week, the earliest blood elements and vessels have formed in the embryo and developing placenta. Circulation now begins, and the heart will develop rapidly. The circulatory system thus becomes the first functioning organ system.
The inner layer of cells will give rise to a simple tube, lined with mucous membranes, from which lungs, intestines and urinary bladder will develop. This week, however, there is little growth in the inner layer. Most of the growth that does occur is for the nervous and circulatory systems.
During this time you may not notice weight gain, but your breasts may be larger and may feel tender. You may also have some "morning sickness" or nausea. You should schedule your first prenatal exam during the first six weeks of pregnancy.
Gestational Age 7 weeks
Because the embryo is curled into a snug position is the uterus, it is difficult to measure the total length including the legs. It is easier and more common to measure a "crown-rump" length, the distance from the top of the head to the buttocks. At this stage, your baby is about 1 1/4 inches (3.2 cm) long from head to rump. It weighs less than 1/2 of an ounce (15 grams).
The beginnings of all the major body organs are formed. Bones of the skeleton are forming. Fingers have formed. The eyelids have grown, but the eyes look closed. The outer ears are forming.
Third Month
After eight weeks the embryo becomes a fetus, which means "young one." Arms with tiny hands and fingers, and legs with the beginnings of knees, ankles, and toes begin to form. Organs such as the stomach and liver have also begun to develop. The head now appears very large compared to the rest of the body because the brain is growing rapidly. Tiny ears and the beginnings of hair are forming on the head.
By the end of the third month, your baby is about four inches long, weighs a little over an ounce, and signs of the baby's sex are beginning to appear. Finger and toenails are developing. The mouth opens and closes and the baby will begin to move its hands, legs, and head. You will not yet be able to feel this movement.
You may have gained about three to four pounds and your clothes will begin to feel a little tight. You may also feel warmer than usual.
All organ systems are in place. Equally significant is the fact that the brain, nerves and muscles are starting to function. The palate has completely formed by the end of this period and the genitals are beginning to have male or female characteristics. The baby moves his or her body in jerks, flexing the arms and kicking the legs, but you won't feel these movements until your baby grows a bit more.
For more information:
Go to the Pregnancy health topic.


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>>> HP ... needs only tell 15m tablets
They better start selling paracetamol then...
Apple will next year out-ship HP - if only when it comes to mobile computers - it has been forecast. The catch, you'll have already guessed, is that media tablet sales have to be included in the total. Unnamed pundits cited by DigiTimes say Apple could ship 15m MacBooks in 2012. And on a forecast 60m iPads - 75 per cent of …
So innovating in a new mass market product category and successfully outselling all and sundry is a catch now is it? So if you successfully redefine the market taking customer's away from the traditional notebook segment, that's a catch ? Saying there is a catch makes it sound like there is something sneaky going on to fluff up the figures when the truth is much more spectacular - long established traditional markets are being turned on their heads. Sheesh Reg, when are you ever going to say the straight out obvious - that Apple have done a good job? It doesn't hurt to provide a bit of acknowledgement every now and then. It doesn't mean you've gone all soft and lost all critical faculties. It actually means you will be trusted more to tell it how it is.
Many of our American friends probably think you have bad judgement when in fact The Register, along with journals like Private Eye is in a long tradition of English cynicism applied uniformly to everything - which has it's place. A good bit of cynical reporting provides a useful balance to corporate marketing spin. The problem is if you are not careful, cynicism becomes the lens through which everything is seen (very bad) and also dampens innovation. So I'm not surprised you are falling so far behind Tech Crunch for video and and editorial variety. Do you really want to be no more than a bunch of undifferentiated mini-Hislops ?
"Forecast Alert: PC Forecast Is Lowered as Consumers Diversify Computing Needs Across Devices"
Details on the report if you can't access it:
If you don't believe you can do something, you sure as hell won't try. Of course there's room for disagreement over individual arguments whether x, y or z is really the case but it can hardly be disputed The Reg attempts to put a patina of cynicism on pretty much everything. So I would dispute they are always simply being realistic.
If you make cynicism your realism, you're not going anywhere fast. By all means comfort yourself with the view they are always being realistic. But if that's the case I believe you are choosing to live in a smaller world, with fewer opportunities and less to be excited about than me my friend.
"Come off it! One's a proper computing device, and the other is a consumer media device!"
And just what, pray tell, do you think many laptops are used for?
Granted that more than 15 million of these HP laptops are probably going to be mid-to-high end machines with heavier use than that, but still - a fair number of those 50 million won't. One of the reasons the iPad is so successful is that it really does allows a lot of the "user class" to do everything they need.


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Guoheng Chen at on
A "cancel" choice on exit for irappture
When I quit irappture with unsaved change, the dialog pops up with "yes" and "no", but without "cancel". Maybe it is a good idea to add a "cancel" button so that people will feel comfortable if they accidentally click "x", as I do. :)


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Be sure to check out the videos from the ASAP conference last July. I think I have over half of them up now. Will continue to upload new video. Lots of great information.
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Golden season
Murry Grigsby 10/7/2006 1:17:39 PMLovely image design, lighting and colors Deeb! I really like how you framed the distant mountains and autumn trees. Well done!! #535828
Steve Rice 10/7/2006 1:36:56 PMDeeb, Wonderful capture and compositon. Well done!! #3419603
Denise M. Snyder 10/7/2006 1:48:14 PMFantastic color and composition! I also really like the way you've framed this! Well done! #3419646
Janine Russell 10/7/2006 3:29:08 PMDeeb, excellent colors, detail, lighting, exposure, DOF and composition. #3419945
Jeff Robinson 10/7/2006 6:26:07 PMOutstanding work; great comp, autumn color and depth! Jeff #3420489
Crystal L. Craig 10/7/2006 11:17:20 PMI absolutely LOVE this image Deeb! Incredible colour, dof, clarity, composition ... WOW! Very nice work! #3421094
Sherry K. Adkins 10/8/2006 12:42:38 AMDeeb, great compostition and colors. I feel the same way about living in the mountains! Where was this taken? #3421218
Kathy Radford 10/8/2006 4:19:47 AMExcellent capture on this Deeb. This is my favorite time of year. Kathy in NH #3421515
Kevin Eddy 10/8/2006 7:23:41 AMGreat job on capturing the "essence" of Autumn!!! Love the beautiful light on the scene. Just lovely! #3422103
Chastity Abbott 10/9/2006 10:36:43 PMBeautiful beyond words!!!!!! #3428614
Michael McCook 10/10/2006 7:38:25 PMGreat image Deeb! This is a winner in my book. Upload more! You have talent!!! #3432507
Rob T. Henry 10/13/2006 2:38:01 PMWinner!!! #3445794
Allan Farnsworth 10/22/2006 8:02:38 AMDon't remember seeing this in the other forum. Like it a lot. The colors of the grass is great. #3484634
Cynthia M. Wiles 11/23/2006 8:57:12 PMSo very beautiful!!
Kay E. Mahoney 11/24/2006 4:30:35 AMCongratulations on your beautiful finalist. Good luck in the next round. #3624261
Janine Russell 11/24/2006 10:01:58 AMDeeb, congratulations on your finalist. #3625641
Deeb Young 11/25/2006 10:50:15 PMWow!. I am a little amazed from the response on this. Thanks to all of you for your kind comments.
I am new to this site and appreciate the things I have already learned from my membership.
Thanks again.
Kenneth Mucke 11/27/2006 3:04:11 AMCongrats Deeb on this stunning winner #3636040
Donna W. Neal 11/27/2006 4:55:34 AMCongratulations on your well deserved Winner Deeb #3636555
Kay E. Mahoney 11/27/2006 4:56:02 AMCongratulations on your beautiful second place winner. #3636558
Rob T. Henry 11/27/2006 5:10:49 AMLike I said, Winner!!! Congratulations, Deeb, on this well deserved win!! #3636657
Janine Russell 11/27/2006 9:29:39 AMDeeb, congratulations on your Second Place Winner! #3638399
Mick Burkey 11/27/2006 7:06:04 PMGreat shot, Deeb! Composition and lighting are fantastic. Congrats on the win. #3640358
Darryl Wilkinson 11/27/2006 10:01:48 PMBeautiful image and Place, Deeb. Congratulations on your win! #3640940
Donna La Mattino Pagakis 11/28/2006 10:06:20 PMCongratulations on your SECOND place win!!! Spectacular! #3644843
Les Rhoades 11/29/2006 11:43:32 AMCongratulations on your winning picture. Well deserved! #3647404
Ken Cole 12/24/2006 6:25:05 PMCongratulations, Deeb! Beautiful job! Spectacular...! #3737578
F/22, 1/2 sec. 18mm, polarizer, iso at 100.
Sempember is the time of year when the colors of nature are most spectacular. I would live in the mountains with my camera if I could.
Exif: FNumber: 22, ExposureBiasValue: -10/10, ExposureTime: 0.5, Flash: flash did not fire, ISO: 100, WhiteBalance:
Uploaded on 10/7/2006 12:58:36 PM
Copyright for this gallery photo belongs solely to Deeb Young. Images may not be copied, downloaded, or used in any way without the expressed, written permission of the photographer.
Log in to follow or message this photographer or report this photo.


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The Dusk on harbor outdoor wall art piece by West of the Wind features amazing clarity thanks to a state-of-the-art printing process known as Giclee. This process allows for amazing vivid imagery that can withstand UV rays and water without fade and rot. The Dusk on harbor art piece is supported by a 1.5 inch thick vinyl frame stretcher bar with stainless steel staples and is impervious to water and elements. Mounting hardware includes hooks, mounting brackets and templates as the artwork is designed to withstand wind gusts up to 60 mph. The dimension are 24 X 24 X 1.5 and comes with a 2 year manufacturers warrantee against defects. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call one our DFO Home relaxation specialists.
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June 14, 2010
LOS ANGELES -- In its second quarterly report of 2010, the UCLA Anderson Forecast makes the case for a tepid recovery from the national recession, with unemployment levels slowly declining. The California economy is expected to grow a bit slower than the nation's for 2010, and slightly faster thereafter. This slow growth through the forecast period will result in only modest inroads to the state's high unemployment rate. In a report focused on Los Angeles, UCLA Anderson forecast suggests that the region's economy will fare better than the rest of California.
The National Forecast
In a report titled, "A Homeless Recovery," UCLA Anderson Forecast Director Edward Leamer notes that while expansive, free-spending consumers fueled past economic recoveries, today's "frugal consumers" cannot be counted on to power a strong recovery for the foreseeable future. "If the next year is going to bring exceptional growth," Leamer writes, "consumers will need to express their optimism in the way that really counts - buying homes and cars. And that is not going to happen if businesses continue to express their pessimism in the way that really counts - by not hiring workers."
The result is an economic Catch-22. Leamer explains that significant reductions in the unemployment rate require real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth in the 5.0% - 6.0% range. Normal GDP growth is 3.0%, enough to sustain unemployment levels, but not strong enough to put Americans back to work. As a consequence, consumers concerned about their employment status are reluctant to spend and businesses concerned about growth are reluctant to hire.
UCLA Anderson's forecast for GDP growth this year is 3.4%, followed by 2.4% in 2011 and 2.8% in 2012, well below the 5.0% growth of previous recoveries and even a bit below the 3.0% long-term normal growth. With this weak economic growth comes a weak labor market and unemployment slowly declines to 8.6% by 2012. Tepid growth leaves plenty of excess capacity, subdued pricing power and very little inflation. This will allow the Federal Reserve to postpone interest rate increases that the forecast expects to come late this year or early next, as the sustainability of a modest recovery becomes clear and as the need for preemptive action against future inflation begins to dominate monetary policy decisions.
In a companion piece regarding the current status and future for commercial real estate, UCLA Anderson Senior Economist David Shulman says there will be a recovery in this sector, but it will be "rocky." "There is just too much debt that has to be worked through," Shulman writes.
The California Forecast
Writing about California, UCLA Anderson Senior Economist Jerry Nickelsburg says the state "will grow slower than the U.S. and a slow recovery in jobs will leave unemployment at 12.1% for the year. The latter part of our forecast (through 2012) calls for health care, professional and business services, exports, construction and technology-related manufacturing sectors to generate a bit more robust growth in California." However, Nickelsburg notes, though the state will grow more rapidly in the following two years, job creation will not be fast enough to push the unemployment rate below double digits until 2012. "Unlike other deep recessions, the rapidity of the recovery, at least on the unemployment front, will be muted," Nickelsburg writes.
The forecast for the next three years is slightly weaker than suggested in the March report. Slow growth in 2010 is expected as government and construction continue to restructure and a reticent consumer nationwide does not boost imports to levels that would ignite the logistics industry. Specific to the construction sector, Nickelsburg describes a divided state, as coastal California recovers while inland California, devastated by the collapse of the real estate market continues to languish.
The Los Angeles Forecast
In a report titled "Emerging from Quicksand," UCLA Anderson Economist Julia Thornton Snider writes, "With its natural deep-water harbor, large-scale logistics industry and export-oriented manufacturing, L.A. is well positioned to benefit from an export-driven expansion and we expect (Los Angeles) to recover more rapidly than California as a whole." Between L.A.'s air- and seaports and its housing market, the evidence is building that a recovery is underway. Exports turned the tide first and provide the most natural engine for recovery, with housing now showing signs of a recovery as well. Job growth is the necessary next step and the Forecast says that it will start to revive this year, although unemployment will remain painfully high through 2012. The city's finances remain in distress and the coming layoffs will put a drag on job growth coming from exports, logistics and manufacturing.
About UCLA Anderson Forecast
UCLA Anderson Forecast is one of the most widely watched and often-cited economic outlooks for California and the nation and was unique in predicting both the seriousness of the early-1990s downturn in California and the strength of the state's rebound since 1993. More recently, the Forecast was credited as the first major U.S. economic forecasting group to declare the recession of 2001. Visit UCLA Anderson Forecast on the Web at http://uclaforecast.com.
About UCLA Anderson School of Management
UCLA Anderson School of Management, established in 1935, is regarded among the very best business schools in the world. UCLA Anderson faculty are ranked #1 in "intellectual capital" by BusinessWeek and are renowned for their teaching excellence and research in advancing management thinking. Each year, UCLA Anderson provides management education to more than 1,600 students enrolled in MBA, Executive MBA, Fully-Employed MBA and doctoral programs, and to more than 2,000 professional managers through executive education programs. Combining highly selective admissions, varied and innovative learning programs, and a world-wide network of 35,000 alumni, UCLA Anderson develops and prepares global leaders.


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This will go down as the weekend that America collectively screamed "AIGGGGG!!!!!" For a long time, outrage over the multi-multi-billion dollar black hole that was once a powerful insurance company AIG simmered rather than boiled because a) other bailout recipients like Citi and Bank of America are more visible and b) most average people have a hard time wrapping themselves around what AIG did (although blogger John Marshall has been quite good -- as always -- on this.
But news of large bonuses to AIG execs -- especially in the unit that lost all the dough -- has changed that. Now everyone is talking AIG, and it seems like the "free market" Republicans (and some of their corporatist Democrat allies) are flailing the most:
On ABC's "Good Morning America" Monday, Sen. Richard Shelby said Congress must do everything it can to make sure the government money going to AIG is handled appropriately.
"We ought to explore everything that we can through the government to make sure that this money is not wasted," the Alabama Republican said. "These people brought this on themselves. Now you're rewarding failure. A lot of these people should be fired, not awarded bonuses. This is horrible. It's outrageous."
Basically, the heads of people like Shelby are about to explode as they try to reconcile their supposed free-market-anything-goes-Wild-West-get-the-government-off-their-backs approach with the awfulness of the real life people they've turned over our free markets to. I don't think it's that complicated....
Fire all the morons at AIG, Citygroup, B of A, et cetera, who got us into this mess, or they don't get a dime of our tax dollars. It might make for a few awkward moments down at the Capitol Grille, but it simply needs to be done.
Depressing? Here's the lighter side of the AIG fiasco.


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IETF 78 - Maastricht, Netherlands
July 25-30, 2010
IETF Meetings start Monday morning and run through Friday mid-afternoon (15:15), with late scheduling changes. Newcomers' training and technical tutorials take place the previous Sunday afternoon. Participants should plan their travel accordingly.
Please note that new information is being added to this page continually; please check back here for the most up-to-date information about IETF 78.


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CindyJ needed a new logo design and created a contest on 99designs.
A winner was selected from 68 designs submitted by 21 freelance designers.
Simple Clean inspiring logo in blues and complimentary colors. Something that promotes self growth
I'm looking for something that will attract men as well as women. I don't want a man looking at and saying "too girly" and clicking the back button .... But as my audience is largely women a femine touch is nice.
My tagline is going to be "Overcoming Lifes Obstacles"
Butterfly's are a plus - I do want it to show my personality a bit, and butterfly's do that.
Looking for a professional logo for my site. I'm want to do away with my picture.
- Professional Logo
- Blues, Purples, Complimentary colors
- Inspiring
- Welcoming
- Vector
- Black backgrounds
- no .com in logo
- no clipart
Find out how a design contest works or learn more about our logo design services.