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Speech by SEC Chairman: 'The Role of Government in Markets' Keynote Address and Robert R. Glauber Lecture at the John F. Kennedy School of Government Chairman Christopher Cox U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission October 24, 2007 Thank you, Bob [Glauber], for that kind introduction, and thanks especially for extending to me the honor of delivering the first Robert R. Glauber Lecture. It’s particularly nice to combine a visit to my alma mater with the opportunity to pay tribute to someone who has contributed so much to the world’s capital markets. Bob Glauber’s entire career has been devoted to improving capital formation and the health of our securities markets. I want to take this special occasion to thank you, Bob, in behalf of investors everywhere. Professor Glauber, of course, served as the CEO of the NASD for five years, and in that capacity was a frontline regulator for broker-dealers in America. He also served as Under Secretary of the Treasury in the first Bush administration. And before that, on October 30, 1987, he was drafted from his Department Chairmanship at Harvard Business School to serve as the Executive Director of the Presidential Task Force on Market Mechanisms — better known as the Brady Commission, which was eponymously named for its Chairman, Secretary of Treasury Nick Brady, who is with us here this evening. That Commission, which as Bob has told you I was involved with as a member of the President’s White House staff, provided the definitive autopsy on what happened to the markets 20 years ago this month. So, happy 20th anniversary to both of you, Bob and Nick. Having served with distinction for so many years at the Business School, Professor Glauber is back at Harvard, but now at the School of Government. That makes him the personification of the two disciplines that are the focus of the Mossavar-Rahmani Center, which is also celebrating an anniversary this evening. Congratulations on a quarter century of exploration of the intersecting roles and responsibilities of business and government. These are the very two topics that are synthesized in my brief remarks tonight, “The Role of Government in Markets.” At Bob’s invitation, I’ve prepared a few thoughts on this subject from my perspective at the Securities and Exchange Commission. When the SEC was created, its purpose was to serve as an independent regulator of the unbridled profit-seeking activity of self-interested individuals and firms in the securities markets. It was not, however, to supplant the market or directly participate in it. Government ownership of the economy was an issue in other countries at that time, but not in America. In Germany during the 1930s, the independence of the private sector was a pre-World War I memory. In the Soviet Union, where the Bolshevik Revolution was not yet a generation old, government virtually occupied the field. And in Italy, where Benito Mussolini’s Fascist party promoted an economic approach called syndicalism, nominally private property was devoted to state purposes. Even in France at that time, the corporatist spirit was in the ascendancy, and the government controlled many industries. But for all of the time since America’s founding, our country had far less government involvement in the economy than Europe. This was true mostly because we had far less government, period. Federal revenues totaled less than 5% of GDP in the early 1930s. Today, more than 70% of the U.S. economy remains in private hands, with the balance accounted for by federal, state, and all other government. It is true that during the 1930s, America first experimented seriously with government-owned industry. Since our earliest days, of course, government had carried the mail, but under FDR the United States embarked upon experiments in other federally-owned enterprises, such as energy production. The repeal of Prohibition in 1933 put many states into the retail liquor business, and many were already involved in the ownership of public utilities. But these were exceptions, and the essential approach of the Roosevelt administration was to regulate business, not own it. So, for example, the government did not attempt to acquire ownership of farms (putting aside the question whether that would have been constitutionally permitted), but rather chose to closely regulate production. From minimum wage laws to the abolition of child labor to a National Planning Board that provided production recommendations across many industries, the New Deal aimed to forge all elements of society into a cooperative unit. This was America’s response to the more radical integration of business and government that was underway abroad. In the case of the securities markets, which also came under regulation for the first time in the 1930s, there was never an impulse for the federal government to own the exchanges, the investment banks, or the broker-dealers. The creation of the Securities and Exchange Commission in 1934 marked a deliberate effort to clearly define and separate the role of the national government, on the one hand, and the capital markets, on the other. Henceforth, fraud and unfair dealing in the stock and bond markets would be subjected to external discipline by the federal government. Minimum standards would be enforced, such as requiring that every investor be told the essential details about the security in which he was investing. Registration of securities, and licensing of broker-dealers, would be required. It was, in short, arms-length regulation of an unabashedly private market, rather than nationalization. Over the years, as the role of the SEC and its relationship to the markets has been refined through experience, the agency has acquired three explicit goals: protecting investors; maintaining fair and orderly markets; and promoting capital formation. These three complementary missions are logically consistent with the original premise of the securities laws, which was that government is an auxiliary to the market, not a substitute for it or a participant in it. Virtually every aspect of the 1933 and 1934 Acts, and the regulations implementing them, follows from the notion that markets should be efficient, competitive, transparent, and free of fraud. The normative judgment implicit in this legislative and regulatory scheme is that markets are good. So long as they are in fact operating efficiently, competitively, openly, and honestly, they are good for consumers, investors, producers, and our entire economy. We do not spend much time justifying this premise. But because the idea of the market is so fundamental to everything that the SEC does, it is now incumbent upon us to remind ourselves exactly why it is we value markets so highly, because the very concept of what constitutes a market is now being reinvented. Two relatively recent developments in our capital markets, in particular, are challenging our basic approach to regulation. First, the number of government-owned or controlled corporations in our public markets, as well as their size, is growing. Second, the number and size of government-owned commercial investment funds is on the rise. The phenomenon of the state-owned, but publicly traded, company is being driven by the semi-privatization of government enterprises in areas such as banking, oil and gas, infrastructure, transportation, and real estate, among others. The result of several large public offerings of government-owned enterprises outside the United States in recent years is that, post-offering, private investors have purchased a significant amount of stock, but even collectively they still represent a minority. The government, in turn, still owns a majority of the company and controls all of the decision-making — just as it did before the public offering. Government ownership of large investment funds, or so-called sovereign wealth funds, is not new, but it is a markedly growing trend that raises many of the same issues of government ownership, and others as well. In operation, sovereign wealth funds are simply the investment arms of governments. But while they have existed in one form or another for many years, today they are making an increasingly obvious footprint in the global financial marketplace, growing in size relative to private assets. Today, the world’s sovereign wealth funds are significantly larger than all of the world’s hedge funds combined. According to some estimates, they could grow as large as $12 trillion over the next eight years. Both of these developments — the growing prominence of state-owned but publicly-traded companies, and the rise of sovereign wealth funds — challenge our regulatory model in a number of ways. First, by breaking down the arm’s length relationship between government, as the regulator, and business, as the regulated, they call into question the adequacy of our enforcement and regulatory regime. When the government becomes both referee and player, the game changes rather dramatically for every other participant. Rules that might be rigorously applied to private sector competitors will not necessarily be applied in the same way to the sovereign who makes the rules. One need look no further than the environmental degradation within the Soviet Union and the Warsaw Pact countries under Communism to observe this principle in action. When the regulator and the regulated are one and the same, deference to the government-owned industry can all too easily trump vigorous and neutral enforcement. This poses potential problems. One of our most basic missions is preventing fraud and unfair dealing. Will a U.S. government agency be capable of doing this, if a sovereign foreign government is commercially interested in an entity we have under investigation? Let me offer an example. Today, Internet fraud is on the rise, and the only way that our government or any other can protect its citizens is to cooperate with other nations. The perpetrators of fraud on the Internet aren’t restrained by national boundaries. In just the last few years, as Chairman I have forged new arrangements with our regulatory counterparts overseas precisely so that we can share the information necessary to crack down on cross-border fraud. Will the high level of cooperation that we know from experience is required in international cases be forthcoming if the foreign government or an entity it controls is itself under suspicion? A corollary of the inherent conflict of interest that arises when government is both the regulator and the regulated is that the opportunity for political corruption increases. Graft, bribery, and other forms of financial corruption by governments and political figures is an unfortunate fact of life throughout the world — as the Commission’s enforcement responsibilities under the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act remind us on a daily basis. When individuals with government power also possess enormous commercial power and exercise control over large amounts of investable assets, the risk of misuse of those assets, and of their conversion for personal gain, rises markedly. Here’s another example. One of the most important byproducts of what the SEC does is the maintenance of investor confidence. If ordinary investors — an estimated 100 million retail customers who own more than $10 trillion in equities and stock funds in U.S. markets — come to believe that they are at an information disadvantage, confidence in our capital markets could collapse, and along with it, the market itself. That’s why so much of our effort is focused on full and fair disclosure to all market participants, and the prevention of fraud and unfair dealing such as insider trading. With the powers of government at our disposal, we can make life difficult for inside traders. But if the powers of government are no longer used solely to police the securities markets at arm’s length, but rather are used to ensure the success of the government’s commercial or investment activities, not only retail customers but every private institutional investor could be put at a serious disadvantage. That disadvantage could include significant disparities in the information that is available to government as compared to private marketplace actors. For instance, unlike private investors and businesses, the world’s governments have at their disposal the vast amounts of covert information collection that are available through their national intelligence services. Think Bill Belichick on a global scale — but with far greater consequence. Current legal restrictions in some countries on the domestic collection and use of such information might serve to protect the civil liberties of that nation’s citizens. But there are normally no concomitant protections for foreign nationals, or for intelligence collection activities conducted in other countries. Unchecked, this would be the ultimate insider trading tool. Government ownership potentially threatens transparency, as well. In many industrial countries today, the ability of journalists and citizens to inquire into government affairs, or to criticize the conduct of government, is severely limited. In some countries, criticism of government policies lands you in jail, or worse. Is it reasonable to expect that these same governments will be magically forthcoming with investors? The fact that minority shareholders in state-owned companies will be dependent on the full disclosure of governments that are not subject to independent regulation raises significant questions for regulators such as the SEC, whose mission includes investor protection. And when it comes to transparency, the track record to date of most sovereign wealth funds does not inspire confidence. Even the economic rationale for our legislative and regulatory deference to markets is called into question when the major marketplace participants are not profit-maximizing individuals, but governments with national interests. A nation’s interests — and the interests of its government, to the extent they are the same — are certainly legitimate. But by definition, a nation’s interests extend beyond simply seeking return on investment through economic gains and the avoidance of economic loss. Investors and regulators alike have to ask themselves whether government-controlled companies and investment funds will always direct their affairs in furtherance of investment returns, or rather will use business resources in the pursuit of other government interests. And if the latter is the case, what will be the effect on the pricing of assets and the allocation of resources in the domestic economies of other nations? Ultimately, that is a judgment that economists will have to make. But if the trend toward government owned or controlled enterprise and investment accelerates, as has been forecast, the answer to that question will continue to grow in importance. In these and many other ways, government ownership of companies and investment funds poses a fundamental challenge to the market premise upon which the SEC operates. So perhaps we should ask ourselves: is our premise a sound one? Why do we in the United States prefer markets and private ownership to direct government ownership in the economy? Our emphasis on private ownership is directly tied to America’s dedication to individual freedom. It’s in our DNA. It’s in large part why the United States came to be at all. Our Declaration of Independence is a recitation of the abuses of excessive government power. Our Constitution is a brilliantly crafted system of checks and balances to prevent that abuse by limiting government’s authority over individuals — including in the economic realm, where we’re guaranteed our constitutional rights to liberty and property, to freedom from expropriation, and to freedom of contract. But beyond that, beyond ideals of freedom, the national preference for private ownership is also based on the most basic practicality: it works. America’s rise from New World outpost to global superpower was fueled by the dramatic growth of our free enterprise economy into the world’s largest. Free enterprise has produced spectacular results. Compared to other national economies with substantial government ownership and central planning, America’s economy has been more creative, resilient, and dynamic. We’ve found that decentralized decision-making, in which millions of independent economic actors make judgments using their own money, results in the wisest allocation of scarce resources across our complex society. And we’ve found the market to be more reliable in heeding price signals and meting out discipline to failing enterprises than government could ever be. The rise of sovereign wealth funds and state-owned public corporations challenges us to ask whether these many benefits of markets and private ownership will be threatened if government ownership in the economy, manifested in these or other new ways, becomes more significant — or whether alternatively, the world will be better off. It’s a question that at least for now is unanswerable empirically, because we are just now beginning to see the manifestations of what some analysts are predicting will be a significant trend. But ask these questions we must, because the evidence is all around us that some and possibly many nations will indeed head in these directions. If the dramatic growth in government-owned commercial investment comes to pass as some have forecast, what does this portend for global capital markets? What effect will these new government participants in our markets have on our markets? At the SEC, our concern is that these activities not harm the investors we work to protect every day, that they promote and not inhibit capital formation, and that they not compromise the maintenance of fair and orderly markets. One possibility is that as a result of these developments, our markets will be less transparent, less yielding to outside law enforcement, and less able to serve their role of wisely allocating scarce resources. If government-owned investments lack transparency, they could contribute to market volatility stemming from uncertainty about the allocation of their assets. The rise of sovereign wealth funds and state-owned public companies could even provoke a new round of protectionism, in which various national governments erect barriers to foreign investment in what they consider to be strategic sectors of their economies — and in which the lines between restrictions on foreign government ownership and foreign private ownership are dangerously blurred. Alternatively, these developments could be viewed as a stabilizing and modernizing influence in global finance. The rise of sovereign wealth funds might be seen as a better way for a nation’s monetary authority to stand ready to meet its balance of payments needs, through better diversification into a broader range of asset classes and the attainment of higher returns. And the accelerating trend toward privatization of state-owned enterprises, even if the privatization extends to only a minority interest and does not yet eliminate government control, could be interpreted as a positive step along the path to eventual full conversion from government to market ownership. Moreover, sovereign wealth funds could be welcomed as a new source of liquidity for our capital markets, while the fact that U.S. investors can now own minority stakes in state-controlled corporations might be considered simply a new range of investment choices. Which of these views is the more accurate is not self-evident. It is not simply a question of whether one prefers government or private ownership, since these latest forms of government activity are, strictly speaking, neither one nor the other. They represent any number of variants in the level of government involvement. The more precise question is, as the distinction between government and private activity in our capital markets is blurred, at what point does the private market stop being a private market, and morph into something else? And how can we even begin to answer that question on a global basis when each nation's definitions of the market vary? Whose definitions do we use? Even in America, where over 70% of the economy is in private hands, there have been sporadic efforts to change Uncle Sam’s role from market referee to market player. During the 1970s, for example, the California-based Campaign for Economic Democracy proposed that the U.S. government should own at least one significant competitor in each major industry. From their perspective as individuals who viewed the market with suspicion — and government participation in the economy with approval — this would serve to keep the competition honest. In more recent years, it has routinely been proposed that the $2.2 trillion Social Security Trust Fund be directly invested in the capital markets by the federal government. This would be investment controlled by the government, not the account holders — in effect creating our own sovereign wealth fund, with a portfolio larger than the combined economies of Russia, India, Canada, and Mexico. These examples serve to illustrate that the question of state ownership in the economy continues to present itself in a variety of ways, not just in other countries but in our own as well. And they help us to appreciate that the fundamental question presented by state-owned public companies and sovereign wealth funds does not so much concern the advisability of foreign ownership, but rather of government ownership. Precisely because the rise of sovereign wealth funds and publicly traded state owned corporations portends a greater degree of state ownership in the economy, their new prominence raises many of the same questions that any program of state ownership entails. There is one respect, however, in which it does matter if investments are made by a foreign government rather than one's own government. A reason often advanced in support of state ownership is that it is the responsibility of one's own government to promote the good of the citizenry and put the nation's concerns first. Another reason is that a nation's citizens can influence their own governments, often through democratic means. But if the government in question is a foreign government, neither of these reasons exists. The national interests that the foreign government will presumably advance will be its own. Likewise, the citizens of other nations will have no direct way to influence a foreign government through the democratic process. From the SEC’s standpoint, these differences have practical consequences. For example, the Commission has the power to pursue sovereign wealth funds for violating U.S. securities laws. Neither international law nor the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act renders these funds immune from the jurisdiction of U. S. courts in connection with their commercial activity conducted in the United States. But a discussion between the SEC and a foreign government might be quite different if, instead of seeking cooperation in an enforcement matter in which we were mutually interested, the SEC were pressing claims of insider trading against that very government. When a foreign private issuer is suspected of violating U.S. securities laws, our experience working with our overseas regulatory counterparts indicates that we could almost always expect the full support of the foreign government in investigating the matter. But if the same government from whom we sought assistance were also the controlling person behind the entity under investigation, a considerable conflict of interest would arise. Even in the United States, where we have neither federally-owned corporations trading in our public markets, nor U.S.-sponsored sovereign wealth funds — and where the presumption must be that the national government has the best interests of U.S. citizens at heart — our government is sometimes criticized for being insufficiently aggressive when it comes to securities law enforcement. The cause most often cited is that business carries too much influence with government representatives and officials. Straying from the model of arm’s length regulation toward one of government-on-government regulation would likely further fuel such suspicions and undermine investor confidence. To begin to enumerate these many questions provoked by the rise of sovereign wealth funds and state-owned public-traded companies, of course, is not to answer them. But systematizing our thoughts about the possible good and ill effects of increased direct participation in the world’s capital markets by governments can help in the process of structuring norms and practices to maximize the potential benefits and minimize the risks. This important analysis is well underway in a number of venues, including the President’s Working Group on Capital Markets, of which the SEC is a member, as well as in the G-7, the World Bank, and the IMF. The outcome of these analyses may well be more generalized agreement about the kinds of strong fiduciary controls, disclosure requirements, professional and independent management, and checks and balances to prevent corruption that will help protect both investors and markets. Meanwhile, as securities regulators, the SEC will continue to treat both state-owned companies in our public markets and sovereign wealth funds as we would any similarly situated private entity. We will continue to pursue a cooperative and collaborative dialogue with our regulatory counterparts in other nations, and to engage them regarding the best way to apply our regulatory approaches in light of the growing presence of government-owned businesses and investment funds in our markets. And we will continue to vigorously pursue tough, independent regulation, which is the bedrock of investor protection, and the sine qua non of efficient capital markets — because in the end, our entire free enterprise system depends upon the rule of law that the SEC upholds. When ultimately policy makers in this country and across the globe refine our approaches to the growing presence of government in markets, the decisions we make will likely depend upon where we think these trends are heading. Do sovereign wealth funds and publicly traded government-owned corporations portend more market discipline of government fiscal management, or instead a detour away from free markets and toward government displacement of the private economy? Much will depend, therefore, on our judgment about what the future holds. No government policymakers can see the future, of course, but appreciating where we have come from — what we lived through, and where we are headed — offers the best hope of wise choices. This is not only my alma mater, and yours, but also John F. Kennedy’s, after whom the School of Government is named. For President Kennedy’s Inaugural, Robert Frost wrote a poem entitled Dedication, in which he paid tribute to the wisdom of our founders — Washington, Adams, Jefferson, and Madison — and he attributed their successful leadership to their vision of what the future held for America. He wrote: So much they saw as consecrated seers They must have seen ahead what not appears Without question, a firm grasp of history’s trends is important for national leaders. But in spite of their uncommon foresight, neither our Founders nor even Robert Frost, who lived so much more recently, could ever have imagined the complex world of electronic global finance that has developed in the 21st century and that today is integrating the economies of every nation on earth. So these choices are ours alone to make. But even though we can’t divine the answers to such questions by consulting the wisdom of our Founders, we can lean heavily upon the principles they cherished. Like Washington, Frost was relentlessly on guard against political ideology, which he regarded as a corruption of philosophy. He warned against the self-delusion that individuals in government possess enough knowledge to regulate human action down to its raw details. In a 1925 letter to his friend Louis Untermeyer, a Marxist, the great poet wrote: “I might sustain the theme indefinitely that [neither] you nor I nor [anybody] knows as much as he doesn’t know.” Frost put his finger on why America has embraced markets: it is because in doing so, we give substance to our support for individual freedom, our suspicion of government excess and abuse of power, and our skepticism that the few can make wiser choices than the many. And by our commitment to arm’s length regulation of those markets, we have simultaneously acknowledged the need for the policeman and the referee — in other words, for the rule of law, and the role of the SEC. Our nation’s support for markets, and our commitment to independent regulation, represent a fragile balance — yet one of such enormous strength, it has supported the hopes, dreams, and wealth creation of the world’s most powerful and prosperous nation. Today, as this approach is under stress because other national governments seek to play a much more active role than just regulator in the world’s capital markets, we’ve got to return once again to first principles and reexamine both our premises and our conclusions. Perhaps with the wisdom of our Founders, the humility counseled by Robert Frost, and the help of all of the bright students and faculty at Harvard University, we can fully appreciate the gravity of these problems. We certainly will need all of the help and analysis we can get — and so, on behalf of all of the professional men and women of the SEC, please know that we are proud to be your partners.

Speech by SEC Chairman: 'The Role of Government in Markets' Keynote Address and Robert R. Glauber Lecture at the John F. Kennedy School of Government Chairman Christopher Cox U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission October 24, 2007 Thank you, Bob [Glauber], for that kind introduction, and thanks especially for extending to me the honor of delivering the first Robert R. Glauber Lecture. It’s partic

The claimant, T, was appointed one of four executors of the estate of his uncle, who died in February 1955 leaving an estate appraised at over two million dollars. The bulk of the estate consisted of more than $1,800,000 in stock issued by some 25 corporations. The remaining assets included over $113,000 in cash, government bonds, two vacant lots, a three-quarter interest in rental business property, and a half interest in 17 acres of land containing coal. There were virtually no debts and, after payment of estate and inheritance taxes amounting to approximately $600,000, there remained about $1,400,000 in the estate. The net assets were disposed of by a will which named T and the three other individuals as co-executors. Under the will, cash bequests were made to a library and to certain colleges, and the remaining assets were to be distributed to abut 38 named beneficiaries, including T and his co-executors. The will empowered the executors of the estate to distribute the assets, to sell the stock, bonds, and real estate, to sell or lease the coal lands, and to borrow money. Almost immediately after their appointment, the executors retained legal and investment counsel to assist them with the administration of the estate. Thereafter, both legal and investment counsel performed virtually all the work of settling the estate, including the obtaining of appraisals of estate assets, selling the stock, distribution of bequests, and management of all tax matters. Although all actions taken on behalf of the estate were subject to the approval of the executors, they largely accepted the advice given and executed the documents presented for their signatures by their advisers. T devoted very little time to settlement of the estate. He consulted periodically with the attorneys for the executors but his active participation in connection with such settlement was very limited. The will provided that the four executors were to be paid as fiduciaries a total of ten percent of the gross value of the estate. The evidence shows that the executors would be paid whether or not they personally performed any services for the estate. T received executor fees of $12,494.28 for 1955, $12,462.26 for 1956, and $12,842.90 for 1957. The question to be decided is whether the fees T received in 1955, 1956, and 1957 as an executor of his uncle's estate may be included in computing his net earnings from self-employment. Section 211(a) of the Social Security Act provides that the term "net earnings from self-employment" means the gross income, as computed under subtitle A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954, derived by an individual from any trade or business carried on by such individual, less the deductions allowed under that subtitle which are attributable to such trade or business. Section 211(c) of the Act provides in pertinent Part: A professional fiduciary or executor who regularly engages in fiduciary services and handles a number of estates generally will be found to be engaged in a trade or business. A nonprofessional fiduciary (for example, a person who serves as executor or administrator in isolated instances, and then only as personal representative for the estate of a deceased friend or relative) generally is not engaged in a trade or business. A nonprofessional fiduciary who actually carries on a trade or business in connection with the administration of an estate, such as operating a store which is part of the estate, may have income includible as net earnings from self-employment if the trade or business is an asset of the estate and the executor actively participates in the operation of such trade or business. In this event only the fees which are compensation for services in operating the trade or business are includible in computing net earnings from self-employment. In certain rare cases there may be a very large estate which is of such complexity and long duration that its administration requires extensive management activities on the part of the executor or administrator over a long period of time. In such instances, where the activities of a nonprofessional fiduciary are sufficient in scope and duration, they may constitute the conduct of a trade or business even though the assets of the estate do not include a trade or business. In this case, T was a nonprofessional fiduciary who served as one of four executors of the estate of his uncle; the authority of such executors was limited to the liquidation and settlement of the estate in accord with the terms of the will; and management activities in connection therewith were pertinent to the sale and distribution of assets and winding up the estate; and the fact that several years were required for such activities was due to the large amount of assets. Moreover, T and his co-executors devoted little time to activities in connection with the settlement of the estate, since their appointed legal and investment counsel performed practically all the necessary work, and T's participation was limited, passive, and sporadic. Furthermore, the fees paid to T were established by the will and bore no relationship to the services he personally performed. Accordingly, it is held that T's activities as executor did not constitute the conduct of a trade or business and, therefore, his fees for his fiduciary activities are excluded from "net earnings from self-employment" for social security purposes. Back to Table of Contents

The claimant, T, was appointed one of four executors of the estate of his uncle, who died in February 1955 leaving an estate appraised at over two million dollars. The bulk of the estate consisted of more than $1,800,000 in stock issued by some 25 corporations. The remaining assets included over $113,000 in cash, government bonds, two vacant lots, a three-quarter interest in rental business proper

Tom C. Korologos, chairman William J. Hybl, vice chair Walter R. Roberts Pamela J. Turner Bruce Gregory, Staff Director This report restated the importance of public diplomacy in a changing world and restated the importance of conducting it through a single federal agency reporting to the President and receiving guidance from the State Department. The report also called for Congress and the Administration to address strategic planning, program priorities, sustained coordination, and budget cycles. It was stated that the U.S. significantly underinvests in public diplomacy compared to many other countries and that an increased budget would be a sound investment. Diplomacy in the information age is public diplomacy. With instant global communication, what people see and hear affects immediately how governments act. Today, governments must win the support of people in other countries, as well as their leaders, if their policies are to succeed. Public diplomacy is essential to peaceful change and democratic reform. The U.S. has an immediate, vital stake in aiding the democratic reforms that are changing the world. If these reforms fail, the long-term costs will be enormous. If they succeed, we will live in a safer world with reduced defense burdens, expanded trade, and additional jobs for American workers.

Tom C. Korologos, chairman William J. Hybl, vice chair Walter R. Roberts Pamela J. Turner Bruce Gregory, Staff Director This report restated the importance of public diplomacy in a changing world and restated the importance of conducting it through a single federal agency reporting to the President and receiving guidance from the State Department. The report also called for Congress and the Admini

ANTONETTE ZEISS, PH.D. ASSOCIATE CHIEF CONSULTANT, OFFICE OF MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS SUBCOMMITTEE ON HEALTH March 11, 2008 Mr. Chairman and members of the Subcommittee, I am pleased to be here today to discuss the ongoing steps that the Department of Veterans Affairs ( VA) is taking to treat substance abuse and co-morbid disorders. I am accompanied by Mr. Charles Flora, Executive Assistant of Readjustment Counseling Service. Mr. Flora is a clinical social worker and Vietnam veteran, and has a lifetime of experience in readjustment counseling at both the Vet Center and national levels. Also accompanying me is Dr. John Allen, Associate Chief Consultant for Addictive Disorders. Dr. Allen is a national expert on substance use disorders and is a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom. His commitment to this work goes beyond the call of a doctor-patient relationship and echoes the pledge our service members make to one another. While VA has always taken the problem of substance use disorder ( SUD) very seriously and has demonstrated our commitment to helping our veterans overcome this disease, we welcome Dr. Allen's personal connection to our returning veterans. We thank the Committee and you, Chairman Michaud, for your active interest in this topic. Tragically, substance use disorders are common in our society, as they are in many societies. As all of you know, the incidence of substance use among veterans tends to exceed that of comparable civilian populations. One study by Todd Wagner, et al from 2007 found veterans are more likely than non-veterans to report driving under the influence of alcohol, smoking daily, and using marijuana. In another study, by Dr. Charles Hoge and published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2004, the number of respondents who admitted to using alcohol more than they intended increased seven percent among Army respondents after deployment to Iraq or Afghanistan. Alcohol and drug misuse are associated with a host of medical, social, mental health, and employment problems. Fortunately, these problems are treatable, and with treatment, the lives of our patients and their loved ones can be enriched. Since the implementation of the Mental Health Strategic Plan, VHA has dedicated more than $458 million to improve access and quality of care for veterans who present with SUD treatment needs. We have authorized the establishment of 510 new substance use counselors and plan to continue expanding SUD services throughout Fiscal Year 2008 (FY 2008) and FY 2009. In FY 2008, for example, our mental health enhancement budget includes over $37.5 million for expanded SUD services. VA is developing plans to allocate medical care funds from the FY 2008 funding to hire even more new professionals, develop new programs, expand existing services, and create an appropriate physical environment for care by upgrading the safety and physical structure of inpatient psychiatry wards, as well as domiciliary and residential rehabilitation programs. VA has increased the number of intensive outpatient SUD programs and plans further expansion. This reflects the continued transition from inpatient care to more effective intensive outpatient care for treating substance abuse problems. These efforts will increase access to substance abuse services throughout VA. Whenever a veteran is seen by a VA provider, he or she is screened for PTSD, military sexual trauma, depression, and problem drinking. We recognize screening is only valuable if we act upon positive screens and follow-up in a timely manner, and we are committed to doing that. For those needing additional services, VA's outpatient and inpatient SUD programs are available; there are more than 220 programs in place, with more in development. Detoxification services may be offered in inpatient units such as medicine, psychiatry, or inpatient chemical dependency units, but the majority of patients requiring detoxification are managed on an outpatient or ambulatory basis. Following detoxification, substance use disorder patients are generally seen in outpatient specialty clinics. VA maintains extended care facilities, including 19 inpatient programs designed specifically to treat SUD patients for 14 to 28 days. Additionally, there are 44 SUD residential rehabilitation treatment facilities, 15 SUD compensated work therapy programs, and 19 SUD focused domiciliaries. We also offer mental health intensive case management, where teams of VA health care providers visit patients in their own living arrangements. Most SUD patients are treated once or twice a week in outpatient clinics, while others may require more intensive outpatient care for a minimum of four hours per day. Thirty-four of the intensive outpatient facilities have the capability of offering treatment five days a week, and telemedicine services are offered to patients living in remote sites. Veterans with serious mental illness in addition to SUD, are seen in specialized programs, such as intensive outpatient substance use disorder clinics, mental health intensive case management, psychosocial rehabilitation and recovery day programs, and work programs. Common elements of treatment for SUD include FDA-approved medications, employment of cognitive-behavioral therapies, incorporation of peer support groups (such as Alcoholics Anonymous), enlistment of the support of significant others, and linking the veteran to community services. Mental health care, including attention to SUD, is being integrated into primary care clinics, and we also are integrating mental health services into VA's Community Based Outpatient Clinics ( CBOCs), VA nursing homes, and residential care facilities. Placing mental health providers in the context of primary care for the veteran is essential; it recognizes the interrelationships of mental and physical health, as well as providing mental health care at the most convenient and desirable location for the veteran. VA has allocated $57.6M over the last three years to expand the capacity of our Domiciliary and Residential Rehabilitation Treatment (( DRRT)) bed programs. This expansion relieves pressure on acute psychiatric and SUD beds, but more importantly, these Residential Rehabilitation programs provide a therapeutic placement for recovering patients in a longer-term rehabilitation setting. They offer intensive therapy experiences, well beyond what is offered in acute inpatient programs, and thus are a more appropriate level of care for the veteran. VA funded eleven new ( DRRT) programs between FY 2005 and FY 2007, and during that same period, enhanced staffing for specialized services, like SUD treatment, in fifteen others. VA employs full and part time psychiatrists and full and part time psychologists who work in collaboration with social workers, mental health nurses, counselors, rehabilitation specialists, and other clinicians to provide a full continuum of mental health services for veterans. We have steadily increased the number of these mental health professionals over the last two and a half years. Currently, we have hired over 3,800 new mental health staff in that time period, for a total mental health staff of over 16,500. Appropriate attention to the physical and mental health needs of veterans will have a positive impact on their successful re-integration into civilian life. In addition to the care offered in medical facilities and CBOCs, VA's Vet Centers provide outreach and readjustment counseling services to returning war veterans of all eras. It is well-established that rehabilitation for war-related PTSD, SUD, and other military-related readjustment problems, along with the treatment of the physical wounds of war, is central to VA's continuum of health care programs specific to the needs of war veterans. The Vet Center service mission goes beyond medical care in providing a holistic mix of services designed to treat the veteran as a whole person in his/her community setting. Vet Centers provide an alternative to traditional mental health care that helps many combat veterans overcome the stigma and fear related to accessing professional assistance for military-related problems. Vet Centers are staffed by interdisciplinary teams that include psychologists, nurses and social workers, many of whom are veteran peers. Vet Centers provide professional readjustment counseling for war-related psychological readjustment problems, including PTSD counseling. Other readjustment problems may include family relationship problems, lack of adequate employment, lack of educational achievement, social alienation and lack of career goals, homelessness and lack of adequate resources, and other psychological problems such as depression and/or SUD. Vet Centers also provide military-related sexual trauma counseling, bereavement counseling, employment counseling and job referrals, preventive health care information, and referrals to other VA and non- VA medical and benefits facilities. VA is currently expanding the number of its Vet Centers. In February 2007, VA announced plans to establish 23 new Vet Centers increasing the number nationally from 209 to 232. This expansion began in 2007 and is planned for completion in 2008. Fifteen of the new Vet Centers have hired staff and are fully open. Five Vet Centers have hired staff and are providing client services, but are operating out of temporary space while they finalize their lease contracts. The three remaining Vet Centers are actively pursuing and/or completing staff recruiting and lease contracting. They will all be open by the end of the fiscal year. To enhance access to care for veterans in underserved areas, some Vet Centers have established telehealth linkages with VA medical centers that extend VA mental health service delivery to remote areas to underserved veteran populations, including Native Americans on reservations at some sites. Vet Centers also offer telehealth services to expand the reach to an even broader audience. Vet Centers address veterans' psychological and social readjustment problems in convenient, easy-to-access community-based locations and generally support ongoing enhancements under the VA Mental Health Strategic Plan. Since hostilities began in Afghanistan and Iraq, the focus of the Vet Center program has been on aggressive outreach at military demobilization and at National Guard and Reserve sites, as well as at other community locations that feature high concentrations of veterans and family members. To promote early intervention, the Vet Center program hired 100 OEF and OIF veteran returnees to provide outreach services to their fellow combatants. These fellow veteran outreach specialists are effective in mitigating veterans' fear and stigma associated with seeking professional counseling services. From early in FY 2003 through the end of FY 2007, Vet Centers have provided readjustment services to over 268,987 veteran returnees from OEF and OIF. Of this total, more than 205,481 veterans were provided outreach services, and 63,506 were provided substantive clinical readjustment services in Vet Centers. VA's research program also demonstrates our commitment to providing the best care possible for veterans with substance use disorders. The VA Office of Research and Development ( ORD) directly funds approximately 100 active research studies of addictive disorders, including basic biological mechanisms of dependence, abuse and relapse, as well as genetics of alcoholism, treatments of alcoholism, drug abuse, and nicotine addiction. Many of VA's most eminent scientists, including a large cadre of VA Research Career scientists and our 2004 Middleton Awardee ( VA's highest honor for medical research), are devoting their careers to further understanding and treating substance use disorders in the veteran population. ORD is also working closely with the National Institutes of Health, specifically the National Institute of Mental Health and the National Institute of Drug Abuse, to forge research collaborations on substance abuse co-morbidities with mental illness, such as PTSD. Substance use disorder is a real problem, and its manifestation along with other mental health conditions can lead to physical health concerns, difficulty readjusting to civilian life, and a host of other problems. One of VA's highest priorities is to reduce the impact of substance abuse and provide veterans with the care they need. Thank you for your time and for the opportunity to discuss this important issue with you. I would be happy to address any questions you may have.

ANTONETTE ZEISS, PH.D. ASSOCIATE CHIEF CONSULTANT, OFFICE OF MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS SUBCOMMITTEE ON HEALTH March 11, 2008 Mr. Chairman and members of the Subcommittee, I am pleased to be here today to discuss the ongoing steps that the Department of Veterans Affairs ( VA) is taking to treat substance abuse

Local Papers Across the Country Weigh in for Reform March 19, 2010 06:35 PM EDT As the fight to put American families and small businesses in control of their health care hits the home stretch, local papers across the country are speaking out for the communities they serve and urging Congress to get health reform done. Here's just a sample of what editorials are saying in advance of the vote: There's no denying the health-care reform bill to be considered by Congress in coming days is far from perfect and has been crafted in a flawed process. However, continuing with the current health-care system marred by uncontrolled costs and countless uninsured Americans is not an option. That's why we believe Rep. Betsy Markey is making the right decision to support the reform package. History books recognize specific dates when a president took action that changed the course of the country's future. One of those days was Aug. 14, 1935, when Franklin Roosevelt signed the Social Security Act. Another was July 30, 1965, when Lyndon Johnson signed Medicare into law. Both programs improved the lives of Americans. The country is on the cusp of another such remarkable day. That's right. The U.S. House is expected to vote on health reform legislation Sunday. If it passes and President Barack Obama signs it into law, the country will be witnessing historic change. As Democratic leaders in the House of Representatives push for a final vote on health care reform by this weekend, we examine four big lies that reform opponents are spreading. “The current system works just fine.” … “This bill is a government takeover of health care.” … “We can’t afford health care reform. We have to cut the deficit.” … “Health care reform means federal funding for abortion.” Congressional leaders unveiled the latest version of the health care bill Thursday, and the House Democratic leadership was ecstatic. After months of being hammered by Republicans with lies about the reform plans, Democrats cheered the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office’s initial analysis of the bill, which undercut the GOP’s complaints. The analysis found the bill would give access to health insurance to 95 percent of nonelderly Americans while cutting the federal deficit by $138 billion over 10 years. The bill could cut as much as $1.2 trillion from the deficit in the following decade. … Our larger point is that, when it comes to fixing what's broken in U.S. health care, it is time to put aside rigid ideologies and embrace experimentation and hybrid solutions. Whatever plan comes out of Congress this week -- if any -- won't be perfect. But it will be a start at a process of change that, in an era of globalization and mobility, is long overdue. As the "yes" votes for health care reform trickle in, building toward the House majority needed to approve work done in the Senate, Americans must keep in mind what will be forefeit if that effort falters. Medical costs continue to skyrocket even as fiscally challenged states like Michigan slash Medicaid payments. Most of the healthy uninsured cannot afford to buy policies, leaving the individual market mostly to chronically ill, for whom health insurance is more like a discount card than a safety net. The latest health care scenarios just released by researchers from a respected think tank offer grim food for thought as health reform moves toward final passage in Congress. If the legislation doesn't pass, the worst-case projection is that the number of Americans without coverage will climb from 49.4 million to 67.6 million in 2020, meaning that nearly one in four Americans too young for Medicare will be uninsured. By now, every voice in the debate over healthcare reform has been heard from. The only thing left to do is pass the reform bill. Admittedly, the bill under consideration is far from perfect. President Obama made a last-minute change that delays a tax on high-cost insurance policies until 2018, which adds to the immediate costs. Nor were Democrats willing to reduce or kill the tax break for employee health benefits, which would also reduce costs and produce more cost-conscious healthcare consumers. EVERY piece of legislation is in some sense a wager: that it will accomplish what is intended; that its costs will be as anticipated; that the promised funding will materialize; that, however imperfect, it represents an improvement on the status quo. Voting for the health reform package now before the House of Representatives represents, in those terms, a huge gamble. As the House heads toward a historic vote on health care reform as early as Sunday, all Florida Republicans remain opposed and all but two Democrats are firmly in support. But a new analysis released Thursday by the House Energy and Commerce Committee suggests Florida lawmakers who vote against the reforms are acting against the best interests of their constituents.

Local Papers Across the Country Weigh in for Reform March 19, 2010 06:35 PM EDT As the fight to put American families and small businesses in control of their health care hits the home stretch, local papers across the country are speaking out for the communities they serve and urging Congress to get health reform done. Here's just a sample of what editorials are saying in advance of the vote: Ther

Press Release No. 904 For use of the information media Not an official record 2010 in the top three warmest years, 2001-2010 warmest 10-year period Cancun/Geneva (WMO) - The year 2010 is almost certain to rank in the top 3 warmest years since the beginning of instrumental climate records in 1850, according to data sources compiled by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). The global combined sea surface and land surface air temperature for 2010 (January–October) is currently estimated at 0.55°C ± 0.11°C1 (0.99°F ± 0.20°F) above the 1961–1990 annual average of 14.00°C/57.2°F. At present, 2010’s nominal value is the highest on record, just ahead of 1998 (January-October anomaly +0.53°C) and 2005 (0.52°C)2. The ERA-Interim3 reanalysis data are also indicating that January-October 2010 temperatures are near record levels. The final ranking of 2010 will not become clear until November and December data are analysed in early 2011. Preliminary operational data from 1-25 November indicate that global temperatures from November 2010 are similar to those observed in November 2005, indicating that global temperatures for 2010 are continuing to track near record levels. Over the ten years from 2001 to 2010, global temperatures have averaged 0.46°C above the 1961-1990 average, 0.03°C above the 2000-09 average and the highest value ever recorded for a 10-year period. Recent warming has been especially strong in Africa, parts of Asia, and parts of the Arctic; the Saharan/Arabian, East African, Central Asian and Greenland/Arctic Canada sub-regions have all had 2001-10 temperatures 1.2 to 1.4°C above the long-term average, and 0.7°C to 0.9°C warmer than any previous decade. Surface air temperatures over land were above normal across most parts of the world. The most extreme warm anomalies occurred in two major regions. The first extended across most of Canada and Greenland, with mean annual temperatures 3°C or more above normal in parts of west Greenland and the eastern Canadian Arctic and sub-Arctic. The second covered most of the northern half of Africa and south Asia, extending as far east as the western half of China, with annual temperatures 1 to 3°C above normal over most of the region. Many parts of both regions had their warmest year on record, including large parts of northern Africa, the Arabian Peninsula and southwest Asia (with Turkey and Tunisia having their warmest year on record), as well as much of the Canadian Arctic and coastal Greenland. Four of the five sub-regions4 which are wholly or partly in Africa (West and Southern Africa, the Saharan/Arabian region and the Mediterranean) are on course for their warmest year on record, along with South and Central Asia, and Greenland/Arctic Canada. Temperatures averaged over Canada have also been the highest on record. Only limited land areas had below-normal temperatures in 2010, the most notable being parts of western and central Siberia in Russia, parts of southern South America, interior Australia, parts of northern and western Europe, eastern China and the southeast United States. It was the coolest year since 1996 for the northern European region, and since 1998 for northern Asia, due mainly to below-normal temperatures during the winter. A number of northern European countries are also likely to have their coolest year since 1996, including the United Kingdom, Germany, France and Norway. Sea surface temperatures were below normal over most of the eastern half of the Pacific Ocean as a result of the La Niña event which developed during the year, but were well above normal over most parts of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans. The tropical North Atlantic was especially warm with temperatures at record levels over most of the area east of longitude 55°W. Major regional climate events in 2010 Extreme Asian summer monsoon in some regions Pakistan experienced the worst flooding in its history as a result of exceptionally heavy monsoon rains. The event principally responsible for the floods occurred from 26-29 July, when four-day rainfall totals exceeded 300 millimetres over a large area of northern Pakistan centred on Peshawar. There were additional heavy rains further south from 2-8 August which reinforced the flooding. More than 1500 lives were lost, and over 20 million people were displaced as large parts of Pakistan’s agricultural land were inundated. In terms of the number of people affected, the United Nations rated the flood as the greatest humanitarian crisis in recent history. The total monsoon season rainfall for Pakistan was the fourth-highest on record, and the highest since 1994. Summer rainfall was also well above normal in western India, and China experienced its most significant monsoon flooding since 1998, with south-eastern China and parts of the northeast most severely affected. The latter floods also extended to the Korean Peninsula. A number of these floods led to significant loss of life, directly as well as through landslides in China, which claimed more than 1400 lives in Gansu Province. However, monsoon season rainfall averaged over India was only 2% above normal, and it was well below normal in north-eastern India and Bangladesh, which had its driest monsoon season since 1994. Extreme summer heatwaves in Russia and other regions The Northern Hemisphere summer saw exceptional heatwaves in several parts of Eurasia. The most extreme heat was centred over western Russia, with the peak extending from early July to mid-August, although temperatures were well above normal from May onwards. In Moscow, July mean temperatures were 7.6°C above normal, making it the city’s hottest month on record by more than 2°C, and similar anomalies continued until cooler conditions developed in the last 10 days of August. A new record high temperature for the city of 38.2°C was set on 29 July, and it reached 30°C or above on 33 consecutive days (in comparison, there were no days at all above 30°C in the summer of 2009). About 11,000 excess deaths during the summer were attributed to the extreme heat in Moscow alone5. Some parts of central European Russia had average temperatures more than 5°C above normal for the summer. The heat was accompanied by destructive forest fires, while severe drought, especially in the Volga region, led to widespread crop failures. Neighbouring countries were also affected, with extreme high maximum temperatures recorded in Finland, Ukraine and Belarus, and record high numbers of extreme warm nights in parts of south-eastern Europe, including Serbia. It was also a very hot summer in many other parts of Eurasia and northern Africa. The Russian Far East had temperatures well above normal, which combined with the extreme heat in the west to result in the hottest summer on record averaged over Russia as a whole. Japan and China also had their hottest summers on record. Earlier in the year, there was exceptional pre-monsoon heat in southern Asia, which included a temperature of 53.5°C at MohenjoDaro on 26 May, a national record for Pakistan and the highest temperature in Asia since at least 1942. Extreme heat affected northern Africa and the Arabian Peninsula at times during the summer, with notable readings including 52.0°C at Jeddah (Saudi Arabia), 50.4°C at Doha (Qatar) and 47.7°C at Taroudant (Morocco). An abnormal winter in many parts of the Northern Hemisphere The normal mid-latitude westerly flow was unusually weak during the 2009-10 northern hemisphere winter, which resulted in many substantial climate anomalies in various parts of the hemisphere. In particular, it was a rather cold winter over most of Europe (except the Mediterranean region), the Asian part of Russia (except for the Far East) and Mongolia. The peak winter temperature anomalies (below −4°C) were in central Russia, but in a historical context the most unusual conditions were on the western periphery of Europe, with Ireland and Scotland both experiencing their coldest winter since 1962-63. Many other parts of northern and central Europe had their coldest winter since 1978-79, 1986-87 or 1995-96, although the temperatures were generally not exceptional in a long-term historical context. The lack of the normal winter westerlies also resulted in dry conditions in normally high-rainfall coastal areas, with western Norway having its driest winter on record (72% below normal). While strong westerly winds were infrequent for most of the winter, a severe winter storm (Xynthia) crossed northwestern Europe at the end of February, causing widespread wind and storm surge damage, especially in France where wind speeds exceeded 150 km/h on the west coast. Further south in Europe, it was a very wet winter, with precipitation widely 100% or more above normal over Spain, Portugal, Italy and south-eastern Europe. Northern Africa recorded warm conditions during winter. February temperatures averaged 3.7°C above the long-term average over the Saharan/Arabian region, the largest anomaly on record for any month. In late February temperatures reached between 30 and 36 °C in northern Algeria, the highest for February since 1980. Winter temperatures were also well above normal over Turkey and the Middle East. In North America the normal north-south gradient of temperature was much weaker than normal. Canada had its warmest winter on record, with national temperatures +4.0°C above the long-term average; winter temperatures were 6°C or more above normal in parts of the country’s north. (It went on also to have its warmest spring on record, with temperatures +4.1°C above the long-term average). The warm conditions extended further east in the Arctic to cover Greenland and Spitsbergen. Canada also had its driest winter on record, with especially abnormal dry conditions in British Columbia (which combined with unusually high temperatures to cause poor snow conditions for some events at the Winter Olympics in Vancouver). In contrast, most of the continental United States (except for the far northwest and northeast) was colder than normal. For the United States as a whole it was the coldest winter since 1984-85, and most southern areas from Texas eastwards had one of their 10 coldest winters on record. These cold conditions were accompanied by unusually extensive snow cover, and very heavy seasonal snowfall amounts in some eastern cities, including a record seasonal total in Washington D.C. Heavy rains and flooding Large parts of Indonesia and Australia experienced heavy rains in 2010 as a La Niña event developed, with particularly unusual rains from May onwards (normally the driest time of the year). In Indonesia, at least double the normal monthly rainfall fell in each of the months from June to October in most of Java, the islands east of Java and southern Sulawesi. The May-October period was the wettest on record for northern Australia with rainfall 152% above normal, while above-normal rains further south contributed to an easing of long-term drought in parts of the southeast. The spring was especially wet, and averaged over Australia was the wettest on record. Whilst seasonal rainfall was not as persistently above normal further north in southeast Asia, both Thailand and Vietnam experienced major floods in October with significant loss of life and economic damage. Many other parts of the world were affected by significant floods during 2010. An active wet summer monsoon season in the West African Sahel was accompanied by floods from time to time, with Benin and Niger the countries most severely affected. In Benin, this caused the worst flooding on record in terms of impact, causing severe losses to the agriculture sector and severe disturbances to public services, including cutting access to health centres, although rainfall amounts themselves were mostly not record-breaking. Central Europe had major floods in May, particularly in eastern Germany, Poland and Slovakia; in late June flooding occurred in Romania, Ukraine and Moldova, and later Germany had its wettest August on record. Bursa (Turkey) had its wettest January-October on record (1152 mm, 132% above normal), while precipitation averaged over Romania for the January-October period was 34% above normal, and the northern Bohemia region (Czech Republic) had its wettest year since 1981. In South America, Colombia had its most severe floods in more than 30 years in November. More localised flash floods caused severe damage and loss of life in numerous other locations, including Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (April), Madeira (February), Arkansas, United States (June) and southern France (June). Drought in the Amazon and elsewhere Parts of the Amazon basin were badly affected by drought during the later part of 2010. An unusually dry July-September period in northwestern Brazil resulted in sharply reduced streamflow in many parts of the Amazon catchment, with the Rio Negro, a major Amazon tributary, falling to its lowest level on record. Earlier in the year, Guyana and the eastern Caribbean islands were badly affected by drought, with rainfall for the period from October 2009 to March 2010 widely in the driest 10% of recorded years. In Asia, parts of southwestern China experienced severe drought through late 2009 and early 2010. Yunnan and Guizhou provinces both had their lowest rainfalls on record during the period from September 2009 to mid-March 2010 with totals widely 30% to 80% below normal. The dry conditions were also accompanied by above-normal temperatures and numerous forest fires. Conditions there eased with good rains during the summer. Pakistan also experienced drought in the early months of 2010 before the onset of the monsoon. Summer rains also eliminated developing drought conditions in parts of western Europe, where the United Kingdom had its driest January-June period since 1929. Some other parts of southern Asia, including northeastern India, Bangladesh, and parts of Thailand and Vietnam, were relatively dry during the main monsoon season, although Thailand and Vietnam were then hit by floods in October. Whilst widespread above-normal rains eased long-term drought in many parts of Australia, the southwest was a marked exception, with January-October 2010 being the region’s driest such period on record. El Niño, La Niña and other major large-scale climate drivers 2010 began with an El Niño event well established in the Pacific Ocean. This broke down quickly in the early months of the year. A rapid transition took place and La Niña conditions were in place by August. By some measures the La Niña event in progress in late 2010 is the strongest since at least the mid-1970s. The atmospheric response has been especially strong, with the Southern Oscillation Index (SOI) reaching its highest monthly value since 1973 in September. The El Niño-to-La Niña transition is similar to that which occurred in 1998, another very warm year, although in 2010 the El Niño was weaker, and the La Niña stronger, than was the case in 1998. The eastern tropical Indian Ocean was also significantly warmer than normal during the second half of 2010 (negative Indian Ocean Dipole), in contrast with the previous La Niña event in 2007-08 when it was generally cooler than normal. The Arctic Oscillation (AO) and North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) were in a negative phase for most of the year, exceptionally so in the 2009/10 Northern Hemisphere winter, which on most indicators had the most strongly negative seasonal AO/NAO on record. The Antarctic Oscillation (AAO) (also known as the Southern Annular Mode (SAM)) was in positive mode for most of the year, reaching its highest monthly values since 1989 in July and August. Tropical cyclone activity well below normal, except in the North Atlantic Global tropical cyclone activity was well below normal in 2010, except in the North Atlantic. A total of 65 tropical cyclones have been observed so far in 2010, of which 35 have reached hurricane/typhoon intensity as of 30 November. These are both well short of the long-term averages of 85 and 44 respectively. It is likely that the final total for the year will be the lowest since at least 1979. Tropical cyclone activity was especially sparse in the North Pacific Ocean. Only 7 cyclones occurred in the Northeast Pacific and 14 in the Northwest Pacific (long-term averages 17 and 26 respectively). Both the Northeast and Northwest Pacific totals were the lowest on record for January-November. In contrast, the North Atlantic had a very active season with 19 named storms and 12 hurricanes, which is equal second highest behind the record of 15 set in 2005 (long-term averages 10 and 5 respectively). The strongest tropical cyclone of the year was Supertyphoon Megi, which crossed the northern Philippines in October after reaching a minimum central pressure of 885 hPa, making it the strongest tropical cyclone in the world since 2005 and the strongest in the Northwest Pacific since 1984. Megi caused widespread damage to infrastructure and agriculture in the northern Philippines, Taiwan and Fujian province in China, but only limited casualties. Tomas (North Atlantic, November) reached category 2 intensity, but its associated rains contributed to the spread of a cholera epidemic in Haiti. Polar regions: third-lowest Arctic summer sea ice minimum on record Arctic sea-ice extent was again well below normal in 2010. The minimum extent of Arctic sea ice was reached on 19 September with an area of 4.60 million square kilometres, the third-lowest seasonal minimum in the satellite record after 2007 and 2008, and more than 2 million square kilometres below the long-term average. The autumn 2010 freeze-up has also been abnormally slow, with the ice cover as of 28 November being the lowest on record for the time of year. The Canadian sector had its lowest summer ice extent on record. The low ice cover was consistent with well above normal temperatures over most of the Arctic, with numerous stations in Greenland, as well as the Greenland/Arctic Canada region as a whole, having their warmest year on record with annual mean temperatures 3-4°C above normal. In contrast, Antarctic sea ice extent was generally slightly above normal in 2010, with the lowest monthly average being 3.16 million square kilometres in February, 0.22 million square kilometres above the long-term average. Temperatures averaged over the Antarctic region were also slightly above normal. Background to data used in this statement This preliminary information for 2010 is based on climate data from networks of land-based weather and climate stations, ships and buoys, as well as satellites. The data are continuously collected and disseminated by the National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHSs) of the 189 Members of WMO and several collaborating research institutions. The data continuously feed three main depository global climate data and analysis centres, which develop and maintain homogeneous global climate datasets based on peer-reviewed methodologies. The WMO global temperature analysis is thus principally based on three complementary datasets. One is the combined dataset maintained by both the Hadley Centre of the UK Met Office and the Climatic Research Unit, University of East Anglia, United Kingdom. Another dataset is maintained by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) under the United States Department of Commerce, and the third one is from the Goddard Institute of Space Studies (GISS) operated by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Preliminary November 2010 information is drawn from the ERA-Interim reanalysis-based data set maintained by the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF). The content of the WMO statement is verified and peer-reviewed by leading experts from other international, regional and national climate institutions and centres before its publication. Final updates and figures for 2010 will be published in March 2011 in the annual WMO Statement on the Status of the Global Climate. 1. The +/- 0.11°C uncertainty has been calculated from the HadCRU data set only. It is likely that the uncertainty for the three data sets combined is marginally lower than this but this has not been quantified. 2. Uncertainty margins for 2005 and 1998 are +/- 0.10 C 3. The ERA-Interim reanalysis is produced by the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF), 4. The sub-regions used in this report are those defined by the IPCC (available at http://www.ipcc.ch/ipccreports/tar/wg1/fig10-1.htm), with some regional names slightly modified. Sub-regional temperature anomalies are drawn from the HadCRU data set. 5. According to a Moscow city health official quoted by the AFP news agency (http://www.terradaily.com/reports/Russian_heatwave_caused_11000_deaths_in_Moscow_official_999.html) The World Meteorological Organization is the United Nations System’s authoritative voice on Weather, Climate and Water For more information, please contact: Carine Richard-Van Maele, Chief, Communications and Public Affairs, Tel: +41 (0)22 730 8315; +(41 79) 406 47 30 (cell); e-mail: [email protected] Clare Nullis, Media Officer, Communications and Public Affairs, Tel: +41 (0)22 730 8478; e-mail: [email protected] WMO website: www.wmo.int

Press Release No. 904 For use of the information media Not an official record 2010 in the top three warmest years, 2001-2010 warmest 10-year period Cancun/Geneva (WMO) - The year 2010 is almost certain to rank in the top 3 warmest years since the beginning of instrumental climate records in 1850, according to data sources compiled by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). The global combined

Remarks by President Gerald R. Ford Veterans Day National Ceremony Arlington National Cemetery October 28, 1974 PRESIDENT FORD: Mr. Smith, Mr. Roudebush, Mr. Holt, Sergeant Littrell, distinguished representatives of America's veterans organizations and their auxiliaries, my fellow Americans: Today, as we all know, is a very special day for all Americans. But to those of us who are veterans ourselves, it has a very special and added meaning. Memories come back of families and old comrades--of distant days and places from the past. Some of those friends are still with us, sharing in the challenges of peace, just as they did their duty in wartime. Others we shall never see again. But they, especially, are here with us in spirit in the shadow of the Tomb of the Unknowns. We are all here today and we are all free today because for nearly 200 years, whenever freedom has been threatened, gallant men and women have answered the call of their country. From all branches of the services they risked and sometimes gave their lives for this Nation. We owe more than we can ever repay to the veterans of all wars in which this Nation has been involved. But today, if I might, I would like to emphasize our debt to the Vietnam veterans. They served in spite of the most difficult psychological pressures. They served at a time when many of their peers and their elders were denouncing service to one's country as immoral. They served while some avoided service. And they served without the full moral support that this Nation has usually given to its fighting forces. Nevertheless, the veterans of the Vietnam generation served with high professional competence, with courage, and with honor. America has a deep moral obligation to these fine men and fine women. As they served us in war, so must we serve them in peace. As they protected our freedom and prosperity, so must we see to it that they participate fully in the benefits that our system offers. It has been said that the forgotten men of the Vietnam conflict are those who served. They are the silent heroes of their generation. Too often those who failed in their duty have monopolized the headlines and distorted the image of their generation. I intend to see to it that the silent heroes--the more than 6 1/2 million Americans who served their country in the Vietnam era with quiet courage--are not forgotten. And I intend to make it certain, just as certain as well, that the men missing in action are not forgotten. And to their families and their friends I make this pledge: I will do everything possible to resolve the uncertainty of their status. It should be a source of great pride to all of us that this country is now providing higher education and training to 1ј million veterans of the Vietnam era. But like all of us, they are feeling the pinch of inflation and feeling it badly. With this in mind, we have proposed that their wide range of benefits be increased to keep up with the cost of living. I am particularly concerned, however, with the plight of the young veteran without a job, especially if he is a disabled member or one of a minority group. For several months now a special interagency task force has been at work developing a program to meet his needs. My assistants have met with representatives of a number of Vietnam veterans organizations at the White House and elsewhere to get their views and to get their opinions. This task force has submitted a jobs-for-veterans plan of action with the objective of recruiting and hiring into the Government at least 70,000 Vietnam era veterans during fiscal year 1975. I am ordering Federal departments and agencies to move--and to move now--on this action plan, to make sure these veterans are hired as quickly as possible. I am glad to report that important progress is already being made. Unemployment among veterans has dropped, fortunately, since its peak in 1971, but we are not satisfied. The National Alliance of Businessmen deserves a great deal of credit for this progress. They have mounted an effective private sector job program for veterans. They have set high goals, and they have met them. This coming year they hope to provide 200,000 jobs for veterans, including the placement of some 7,500 disabled veterans. I commend them. They are doing a magnificent job. They deserve the admiration, respect, and cooperation of all Americans. However, we have another major moral commitment to the American veteran. It is, as Lincoln put it, "to care for him who shall have borne the battle." To do so, America has created one of the largest, most comprehensive government health systems in the world--our Veterans Administration hospitals and clinics throughout our 50 States. On the whole, the Veterans Administration has done a very fine job under very, very difficult circumstances. Despite repeated and often complicated changes in the laws governing veterans health benefits, despite the many complex new developments in medicine itself, and despite nearly 1,800,000 applications for care in fiscal year 1974 alone, the VA is providing the latest and the very best possible treatment to veterans, ranging all the way from major surgery to dental care. In a special survey completed July 31, which I have personally carefully studied, the whole range of VA assets and liabilities was reviewed. And I am frank to admit, as I think we should, that real problems do exist. Overcrowding is one problem in some facilities. At some hospitals patients have to wait longer than they should to receive proper treatment. Attracting and holding top quality medical professionals and support personnel is another problem. But the study also discovered through polling that 80 percent of the VA patients felt that their doctors were giving them the very best possible care and that the hospital employees were dedicated people who treated them with respect and with understanding. Eighty percent also said that if they needed hospital care again, they would want to come back to the very same hospital. That is, in my judgment, a pretty impressive vote of confidence from the veterans themselves. By and large, the report concludes that, in general, VA medicine is first-rate. Where problems still exist, I have asked the VA Administrator, Dick Roudebush, to let me know what is needed to eliminate those problems. I am determined to do everything I can to make a good system even better--and it will be--to make sure that the veterans receive the best possible treatment. Dick Roudebush understands veterans' problems and has the legislative experience it will take to work with the Congress as well as with the Administration and veterans organizations in meeting this very great challenge. In difficult times, our veterans of all ages agreed with and kept faith with us. They kept America free and enabled us to keep faith with the free world. On this historic day, let us resolve anew to keep faith with them. One of the first and the greatest men to serve the American flag was George Washington, and he left behind an eloquent warning, and I quote: "To be prepared for war," George Washington said, "is one of the most effectual means of preserving peace." More than once in our history we have forgotten that warning. Each time we have paid a very, very heavy toll in human suffering. As a young man myself in the 1930's, I remember the isolationism that blinded so many Americans to the menace of Hitler's Germany and its totalitarianism. Most of us regrettably thought that the vast oceans, the Atlantic and the Pacific, would somehow insulate our country from any foreign danger. We thought, mistakenly, that we could go it alone, but we had a very rude awakening December 7, 1941. Then a young generation of Americans witnessed firsthand the devastation of World War II and vowed never again to repeat the mistakes of the twenties and the thirties. We vowed to keep America strong. Never again would our weakness invite attack. We built an international network of mutual security so that the strength and the solidarity of the free world would deter any adversaries from aggression. During the past decade, our whole fundamental policy of mutual security and strength has come under sharp attack. I do not intend on this occasion to go into any detailed justification of our entire post-World War II national security policy. I do point out that, in terms of its original fundamental objectives, it has been successful, and we have succeeded in something more. We have managed to build a better world. The economic aid that went into our mutual security program built strong allies and strong, prosperous trading partners. Encouraging new developments in our relations with both allies and potential adversaries have raised the hopes that finally, after so many unwanted wars and so much tragic suffering, mankind may finally be on the path to a lasting peace. If this is so--and I believe it is--no one deserves more credit than our veterans, and nothing will do more to insure peace than a continued policy of national strength. The markers over the graves of the known and the unknown whom we salute here today stand as silent sentinels to nearly 200 years of sacrifice and freedom. The men and women with us here today, whom we honor for the uniforms they once wore, stand as attentive guardians of this Nation which Lincoln once aptly described as "The last, best hope of earth." Let us make sure, on this beautiful day, the debt we owe to so many is properly honored. Let this Veterans Day strengthen our resolve to always walk the extra mile for peace, but always walk it strong and unafraid--for without a mighty America no peace can long survive. Thank you very, very much.

Remarks by President Gerald R. Ford Veterans Day National Ceremony Arlington National Cemetery October 28, 1974 PRESIDENT FORD: Mr. Smith, Mr. Roudebush, Mr. Holt, Sergeant Littrell, distinguished representatives of America's veterans organizations and their auxiliaries, my fellow Americans: Today, as we all know, is a very special day for all Americans. But to those of us who are veterans ourselv

September 3, 2009 Contact: Sandra Abrevaya, deputy press secretary| (202) 401-1576 or [email protected] Despite busy schedules and summer heat, a record number of Cabinet members and senior administration officials joined U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan for the Department's weekly reading initiative, "Read to the Top!" during June, July and August. For 12 weeks, Secretary Duncan and 15 Cabinet members and other senior administration officials brought books to life for the more than 1,200 children who gathered under shady trees on the Department's plaza to listen to the stories and ask questions. Even the "First Grandmother" of the United States, Marian Robinson, stopped by to read to the children who had tons of questions for her. The 15 Cabinet members and senior officials answering the President's call to service through "Read to the Top!" were: White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel; Senior White House Advisor David Axelrod; Senior White House Advisor Valerie Jarrett; Cabinet Secretary Chris Lu; Director of the Domestic Policy Council Melody Barnes; U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Susan Rice; Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency Lisa Jackson; Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius; Secretary of Agriculture Thomas Vilsack; Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric Shinseki and his wife, Patricia Shinseki; Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar; Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Shaun Donovan; Secretary of Commerce Gary Locke; Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis; and Mrs. Robinson. "The summer reading initiative brought us together as a literary family," Secretary Duncan said. "I am grateful to the students, teachers and community leaders who came out each week for the event. The events couldn't have been as successful had it not been for the hard work of employees here at the Department and my counterparts who read to the children. Scholastic was incredibly generous for donating more than 2,000 books so that each child could take home their own book and Target for enlivening the plaza's reading area with colorful rugs and beanbags for the kids to use. Whole Foods kept the children refreshed on those hot days with healthy frozen treats. This was truly a team effort, and I am so grateful to have been a part of it." "Read to the Top!" was created to combat summer reading loss in response to President Barack Obama's national volunteer campaign, "United We Serve," which challenged all Americans to engage in sustained, meaningful service in their communities this summer. In an effort to promote learning and literacy at a time when children weren't typically in school, the Department collaborated with the Corporation for National and Community Service, libraries and community organizations. Secretary Duncan, other Cabinet members and top administration officials read books each week to children, in grades pre-k through 6, from more than 30 private, traditional public and charter schools, beginning June 24 and ending Aug. 28. The Department's weekly literacy series on the plaza culminated with Secretary Duncan receiving a 2009 "Champion of Summer Learning Award" from the National Center for Summer Learning at Johns Hopkins University. He received the award for supporting summer learning and encouraging school districts and states to use American Recovery and Reinvestment Act dollars to educate children over the summer. In addition to the Department's efforts to stop summer reading loss through "Read to the Top!" it also awards Striving Readers grants aimed at raising the literacy level of adolescent students and building a strong, scientific research base for adolescent literacy instruction. This year's grants will be announced later this month. To date, the Department has awarded approximately $120 million for projects aimed at helping struggling readers. When this year's grants are awarded, State Education Agencies will receive approximately $7.2 million to implement and evaluate supplemental literacy programs for struggling readers in middle and high schools. |Back to September 2009|

September 3, 2009 Contact: Sandra Abrevaya, deputy press secretary| (202) 401-1576 or [email protected] Despite busy schedules and summer heat, a record number of Cabinet members and senior administration officials joined U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan for the Department's weekly reading initiative, "Read to the Top!" during June, July and August. For 12 weeks, Secretary Duncan and 15 Cab

Livestock Density as Risk Factor for Livestock-associated Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus, the Netherlands Beth J. Feingold , Ellen K. Silbergeld, Frank C. Curriero, Brigite A.G.L. van Cleef, Max E.O.C. Heck, and Jan A.J.W. Kluytmans Author affiliations: Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA (B.J. Feingold, E.K. Silbergeld, F.C. Curriero); National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, the Netherlands (B.A.G.L. van Cleef, M.E.O.C. Heck); and Amphia Hospital, Breda, the Netherlands; and VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands (B.A.G.L. van Cleef, J.A.J.W. Kluytmans) Figure 2. . . . A) Spatial intensity of case-patients with livestock-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (LA-MRSA); B) spatial Intensity of controls with typeable MRSA (T-MRSA); and C) calculated spatial odds for LA-MRSA compared with those for T-MRSA, the Netherlands, 2003–2005. The opinions expressed by authors contributing to this journal do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Public Health Service, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or the authors' affiliated institutions. Use of trade names is for identification only and does not imply endorsement by any of the groups named above.

Livestock Density as Risk Factor for Livestock-associated Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus, the Netherlands Beth J. Feingold , Ellen K. Silbergeld, Frank C. Curriero, Brigite A.G.L. van Cleef, Max E.O.C. Heck, and Jan A.J.W. Kluytmans Author affiliations: Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA (B.J. Feingold, E.K. Silbergeld, F.C. Curriero); National I

Senior Adult Writing Projects Sharing What They Have Learned A sage is defined as one who is "venerated for his or her experience, judgment and wisdom." To gain insight into the nature of lifelong knowledge and learning, the Senior Adult Generating Eloquence (SAGEs) program at Lorain County Community College sought the wisdom of its elders. The program invited Lorain County senior citizens to write an essay on the question "What was the most significant learning experience you have ever had?" "I learned so much from my daughter ... I learned that it is alright to have pink and purple plastic hair clips placed into your hair by your two-year old daughter. I learned that when teaching your four-year old daughter how to fish, you would get the biggest lesson in the end; the perch were named and put into a blow-up swimming pool, instead of a frying pan." - Reflections At Sixty by Johnnie Broeckel The question seeks to learn more about what kinds of knowledge are deemed important by the people who have spent the most time acquiring and using it. What life lessons have been the most useful? "Long, long ago, I LEARNED TO READ! Every learning experience from then on depended upon it. I read to find answers, to laugh, to cry, to look in awe at what words could do: poetry, stories, letters and lists. I passed the written driver's test - I could read! ... Nothing I have learned since equals the importance of this: I CAN READ." - One, Above All by Lila McGinnis Twenty-four senior citizens participated in the SAGEs program, which attempts to provide a forum for the unique and rich learning stories of this group. According to English professor Kevin Hoskinson, creator of the SAGEs program, "Despite the fact that senior citizens are our most valuable resource, their life accomplishments remain vastly under-recognized and under-acknowledged." "At this time, on reflection, I realize that writing this paper is my most significant learning experience. I now know that I have acquired the ability to choose life and live it abundantly. Never be less than you are; always strive to be more. How? Take the newly offered path - the narrow one - designed by God, just for you." - At the Time by Margie McGinnis The writing contributions of Ohio's senior citizens also have been recognized on the national level. In March, 2009, the Ohio Department of Aging asked older Ohioans to submit their recollections from the Great Depression so that the sacrifices they made and the lessons they learned may be shared with other generations currently facing tough economic times. The department collected 313 stories from people in 54 Ohio counties, as well as six individuals from out of state who used to reside in Ohio. The average age of those submitting stories was 85. The oldest subject was 103, the youngest 64. Nearly 1,000 excerpts from those stories were posted to the department's Web site last fall. They present a diverse range of topics from food and clothing to employment, home life and differences between then and today. The most common theme throughout the stories was that people, families and neighborhoods of that era seemed much more self-sufficient and connected as communities than we are today. The American Library Association's Government Documents Roundtable named the department's Great Depression Story Project a "Notable Government Document" for 2009. The online collection of excerpts from the stories was one of only two Ohio documents on the journal's list of 39 distinguished state, federal and international electronic and print publications, published in the Association's Library Journal. The journal describes the stories as "always interesting, sometimes poignant and occasionally unforgettable." Connect to More Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame The Ohio Department of Aging has issued a call for nominations for outstanding older individuals to be inducted into the Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame honors Ohioans age 60 and older for their extraordinary achievements and contributions. Individuals and organizations interested in nominating a neighbor, colleague, family member or friend may do so online. The department will accept nominations through July 31, 2010. Honorees will be inducted to the Hall of Fame in the spring of 2011. Rock On for Seniors! Art and Fun to Benefit Pro Seniors Creative works by area artists and live rock from the decades will fuel the fun at "Rock On for Seniors," Pro Seniors' premiere fundraising event, at 7 p.m. August 14 at the Mayerson JCC (Jewish Community Center), 8485 Ridge Road, Cincinnati. A call to artists to design rocking chairs for auction at the event has attracted the talents of Jim Borgman, C.F. Payne and other area artists. Mr. Borgman is co-creator of the cartoon strip Zits and the long-time Pulitzer Prize-winning political cartoonist with The Enquirer. C.F. Payne's work has illustrated 10 children's books and graced the covers of Time Magazine, Readers Digest, Sports Illustrated, The New York Times Sunday Magazine, MAD Magazine, U.S. News and World Report and many more. Their work and that of 10 other selected artists will be featured in the auction of 12 rocking chairs.

Senior Adult Writing Projects Sharing What They Have Learned A sage is defined as one who is "venerated for his or her experience, judgment and wisdom." To gain insight into the nature of lifelong knowledge and learning, the Senior Adult Generating Eloquence (SAGEs) program at Lorain County Community College sought the wisdom of its elders. The program invited Lorain County senior citizens to writ

This information is for reference purposes only. It was current when produced and may now be outdated. Archive material is no longer maintained, and some links may not work. Persons with disabilities having difficulty accessing this information should contact us at: https://info.ahrq.gov. Let us know the nature of the problem, the Web address of what you want, and your contact information. Please go to www.ahrq.gov for current information. AHRQ News and Numbers Release date: June 11, 2008 Americans spent $11 billion on doctors' bills, prescription drugs, and other medical care to relieve allergy symptoms such as itchy or watery eyes, stuffy noses, wheezing, coughing, and headaches in 2005, according to the latest News and Numbers from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). The cost is nearly double the $6 billion spent in 2000. AHRQ's analysis looked at spending on allergies, such as hay fever and other allergies caused by plant pollens, dust, dander, or animal hair. AHRQ's data indicated that: - In 2005, about 22 million Americans reported visiting a doctor, obtaining a prescription drug, being hospitalized, getting home care, or experiencing allergy symptoms. - Visits to doctors' office and hospital outpatient departments for allergies care accounted for $4 billion. The remaining roughly $7 billion was spent mostly on prescription drugs. - Between 2000 and 2005, average annual spending on treatment of allergies jumped from $350 per person to $520 per person. AHRQ, which is part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, works to enhance the quality, safety, efficiency, and effectiveness of health care in the United States. The data in this AHRQ News and Numbers summary are taken from the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey, a detailed source of information on the health services used by Americans, the frequency with which they are used, the cost of those services, and how they are paid. For more information, go to Allergic Rhinitis: Trends in Use and Expenditures, 2000 and 2005. For other information, or to speak with an AHRQ data expert, please contact Bob Isquith at [email protected] or call 301-427-1539. Current as of June 2008

This information is for reference purposes only. It was current when produced and may now be outdated. Archive material is no longer maintained, and some links may not work. Persons with disabilities having difficulty accessing this information should contact us at: https://info.ahrq.gov. Let us know the nature of the problem, the Web address of what you want, and your contact information. Please

Electronic Payment Options Available at SD Farmers Markets PIERRE, S.D. – Paying cash for food isn’t always convenient. That’s why farmers markets in South Dakota now give customers the option of using credit, debit or electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards to pay for their local food purchases. Electronic payments, instead of cash or checks, are a convenience for customers and allow them to add locally grown fruits and vegetables to meals. “Local food outlets are growing in interest across the state,” said Jon Farris, South Dakota’s Acting Secretary of Agriculture. “By giving customers additional payment options, farmers markets are positioning themselves to grow their customer base.” Last year, the Vermillion Area Farmers Market became South Dakota’s first local food outlet to use a wireless point-of-sale (POS) device that accepts credit or debit cards, as well as EBT cards carried by those receiving benefits through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps. “For SNAP recipients on a smaller cash food budget, the electronic payment option allows them to make larger purchases of fresh fruits and vegetables,” said Rebecca Terk, board president for the Vermillion Area Farmers Market. "Having easy access to fresh, South Dakota-grown fruits and vegetables at farmers markets is a wonderful opportunity for SNAP recipients to have healthier choices when it comes to purchasing food for their families," said Deb Bowman, Secretary of the Department of Social Services, which administers SNAP. "We really appreciate South Dakota producers who recognize the importance for citizens with limited incomes to be able to shop at farmers markets. It is a step in the right direction for a healthier South Dakota." Authorized SNAP retailers may purchase wireless POS devices or use manual vouchers for SNAP purchases. The vouchers are authorized at the time of sale and later cleared using a state-supplied POS device. For more information on how to become an authorized SNAP retailer or to fill out an application online, go to http://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/. Questions about how to offer electronic payments at local farmers markets may also be directed to South Dakota EBT Administrator Sandy Vanneman at 605-773-6527. South Dakota has nearly three dozen farmers markets. Specific locations and contact information are available at www.dakotaflavor.com. Communities interested in forming farmers markets can contact Bob Weyrich at 605-773-5436. Agriculture is South Dakota's No. 1 industry, generating more than $21 billion in annual economic activity and employing more than 173,000 South Dakotans. The South Dakota Department of Agriculture's mission is to promote, protect, preserve and improve the industry for today and tomorrow. Visit us online at http://sdda.sd.gov/.

Electronic Payment Options Available at SD Farmers Markets PIERRE, S.D. – Paying cash for food isn’t always convenient. That’s why farmers markets in South Dakota now give customers the option of using credit, debit or electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards to pay for their local food purchases. Electronic payments, instead of cash or checks, are a convenience for customers and allow them to add

Report all expenditures relating to WDA and Job Center administration for the WIA formula grants for Youth, Adult and Dislocated Worker programs. These are expenditures associated with the general administrative costs for the overall management and administration of the WIA program that are not directly related to the provision of services to participants. The definition of Administrative Costs can be found at 20 CFR 667.220. Allowable expenditures include but are not limited to: the cost to provide general administrative services such as accounting, payroll, procurement, audit costs, general legal services, monitoring of administrative functions, information systems related to administrative functions, subcontracts for administrative services, local board functions, and the related costs of staff, rent, supplies, travel, supervision, management, and financial management. Costs may be personnel or non-personnel and direct or indirect. Note: Administrative costs of subcontracts to provide program services are program costs and would not be reported under this code.

Report all expenditures relating to WDA and Job Center administration for the WIA formula grants for Youth, Adult and Dislocated Worker programs. These are expenditures associated with the general administrative costs for the overall management and administration of the WIA program that are not directly related to the provision of services to participants. The definition of Administrative Costs ca

|Title||Energy use and carbon dioxide emissions in the steel sector in key developing countries| |LBNL Report Number||LBNL-46987| |Year of Publication||2001| |Authors||Price, Lynn K., Dian Phylipsen, and Ernst Worrell| |Series Title||Energy Policy| |Keywords||developing country studies, energy efficiency, greenhouse gas (ghg), industrial energy analysis| Iron and steel production consumes enormous quantities of energy, especially in developing countries where outdated, inefficient technologies are still used to produce iron and steel. Carbon dioxide emissions from steel production, which range between 5 and 15% of total country emissions in key developing countries (Brazil, China, India, Mexico, and South Africa), will continue to grow as these countries develop and as demand for steel products such as materials, automobiles, and appliances increases. In this report, we describe the key steel processes, discuss typical energy-intensity values for these processes, review historical trends in iron and steel production by process in five key developing countries, describe the steel industry in each of the five key developing countries, present international comparisons of energy use and carbon dioxide emissions among these countries, and provide our assessment of the technical potential to reduce these emissions based on best-practice benchmarking. Using a best practice benchmark, we find that significant savings, in the range of 33% to 49% of total primary energy used to produce steel, are technically possible in these countries. Similarly, we find that the technical potential for reducing intensities of carbon dioxide emissions ranges between 26% and 49% of total carbon dioxide emissions from steel production in these countries.

|Title||Energy use and carbon dioxide emissions in the steel sector in key developing countries| |LBNL Report Number||LBNL-46987| |Year of Publication||2001| |Authors||Price, Lynn K., Dian Phylipsen, and Ernst Worrell| |Series Title||Energy Policy| |Keywords||developing country studies, energy efficiency, greenhouse gas (ghg), industrial energy analysis| Iron and steel production consumes enormous

A clean, efficient fuel cell powered the tree lights at the 2011 Energy Department holiday party. | Energy Department file photo. Employees at the Energy Department’s annual holiday party were greeted with many familiar sights – festive decorations, sugar cookies, and a tree in sparkling lights. In addition to the traditional holiday fare, guests were presented with something new. For the first time ever, the lights used to decorate the holiday tree were powered by a clean, efficient fuel cell. Fuel cells produce clean electricity from a number of domestic fuels, including renewables, natural gas, and hydrogen, and can provide power for virtually any application—from cars and buses to holiday lights. Fuel cells work like batteries, but they do not run down or need recharging. They produce electricity and heat as long as fuel is supplied. The portable fuel cell used at this year’s holiday party is made by Trulite. The fuel cell generates about 150 watts of power—making it ideal for recharging laptops, cell phones, and other everyday appliances. Continued widespread use of hydrogen and fuel cells could play a substantial role in overcoming our nation’s key energy challenges—including reducing greenhouse gas emissions and oil consumption as well as improving air quality. Energy Department funding has led to over 300 U.S. hydrogen and fuel cell patents and directly contributed to bringing over 30 commercial technologies to the market place. Incorporating clean, renewable technologies into time-honored traditions right at the Energy Department’s headquarters is something that resonates with employees. “It’s great to see fuel cells used in a more domestic setting that people can relate to,” said Kristen Abkemeier. Shannon Shea, another holiday party attendee, added, “It’s one of the ways DOE is walking the walk.”

A clean, efficient fuel cell powered the tree lights at the 2011 Energy Department holiday party. | Energy Department file photo. Employees at the Energy Department’s annual holiday party were greeted with many familiar sights – festive decorations, sugar cookies, and a tree in sparkling lights. In addition to the traditional holiday fare, guests were presented with something new. For the first ti

|Home > News & Policies > Proclamation Archives| For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary March 2, 2001 National Poison Prevention Week, 2001 By the President of the United States of America National Poison Prevention Week alerts Americans to the dangers of accidental childhood poisonings and to the measures that help prevent poisonings. During the 40 years since the Congress authorized the annual proclamation of National Poison Prevention Week, our Nation has seen a dramatic decrease in deaths from childhood poisoning. In 1962, nearly 450 children died from poisoning after they accidentally swallowed medicines or household chemicals. From 1993 through 1997, an average of 36 children died each year from poisoning. This dramatic reduction in poisoning fatalities is a significant public health success. However, the death of even one child from poisoning should be prevented. According to the American Association of Poison Control Centers, more than 1 million children each year are exposed to potentially poisonous medicines and household chemicals. The first line of defense is child-resistant packaging required by the Consumer Product Safety Commission for many medicines and household chemicals. But this special packaging is "child-resistant," not "child-proof." Therefore, potential poisons must be locked up away from children. And if a poisoning occurs, local poison control centers should be called immediately. The Poison Prevention Week Council brings together 35 national organizations to distribute poison prevention information to pharmacies, public health departments, and safety organizations nationwide. National Poison Prevention Week has been very effective, but there is more to do. We all should use and properly re-close child-resistant packaging, keep poisonous substances locked up away from children, and keep available poison control center phone numbers next to the telephone. These measures can help prevent tragedies. To encourage the American people to learn more about the dangers of accidental poisonings and to take more preventive measures, the Congress, by joint resolution approved September 26, 1961 (75 Stat. 681), has authorized and requested the President to issue a proclamation designating the third week of March each year as "National Poison Prevention Week." NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim the week beginning March 18, 2001, as National Poison Prevention Week. I call upon all Americans to observe this week by participating in appropriate ceremonies and activities and by learning how to prevent accidental poisonings among children. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this second day of March, in the year of our Lord two thousand one, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-fifth. GEORGE W. BUSH # # #

|Home > News & Policies > Proclamation Archives| For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary March 2, 2001 National Poison Prevention Week, 2001 By the President of the United States of America National Poison Prevention Week alerts Americans to the dangers of accidental childhood poisonings and to the measures that help prevent poisonings. During the 40 years since the Congress authorized

00105 Orin Grant Libby Consists of images of the Badlands, Fort Lincoln archaeological camp and excavation, Mandan buildings and views, Fort Union festivities of 1926, and the last ox cart parade with Red River carts in Grand Forks. Native American photographs include Hidatsa boys, several views of Short Bull, Good Bird, Indian log house with bower, Mandan shrine, interior and exterior of earth lodges, medicine lodge, Arikara fort camp, various archaeological sites, Indian mounds, buffalo bone and horn implements, and mortar and pestles. There are also photographs and maps by Ernst Reinhold Steinbrueck, including those of many archaeological sites and early day Mandan. (289 photographs) 00106 Superintendent’s Correspondence Photographs Includes photography files used by the State Historical Society for a number of purposes. Many are labeled. Archaeological images were taken and donated by Henry B. Syverud of Dagmar, MT. Eugene A. Burdick took many Native American portraits and some scenes. Other topics include the Pioneer Family Sculpture, North Dakota historic sites, and Bismarck Pioneer Day parade. Portraits include Bob-Tailed Bull, Shoots Holy, Dan Iron Road, Andrew Iron Road, No Two Horns, Mrs. Iron Cane, Mrs. Bullhead, Mrs. Standing Wind, Mrs. Eagle Staff, Old Bull, Bear Heart, Wicibedeza, and Mr. and Mrs. White Lightning. Other portraits include Mr. and Mrs. Frank Fiske, Francis Zahn, Usher Burdick, Quentin Burdick, Eugene Burdick, and Melvin Gilmore. (226 photographs) 00132 Annetta Erickson Postcards Consists of images of Fargo, Devils Lake, Valley City, Bismarck, and Sioux Indians of North Dakota. Photographs of Sioux Indians were most likely taken by B.L.B. of Mott, ND in 1918. (25 items) 612 East Boulevard Ave. Bismarck, North Dakota 58505 Museum Store: 8am - 5pm M-F; Sat. & Sun. 10am - 5pm. State Archives: 8am - 4:30pm., M-F, except legal holidays, and 2nd Sat. of each month, 10am - 4:30 pm. State Historical Society offices: 8am - 5pm M-F, except legal holidays. phone: (701) 328-2666 fax: (701) 328-3710

00105 Orin Grant Libby Consists of images of the Badlands, Fort Lincoln archaeological camp and excavation, Mandan buildings and views, Fort Union festivities of 1926, and the last ox cart parade with Red River carts in Grand Forks. Native American photographs include Hidatsa boys, several views of Short Bull, Good Bird, Indian log house with bower, Mandan shrine, interior and exterior of earth lo

To link to this article, copy this persistent link: (Jun 16, 2009) On June 11, 2009, the Constitutional Court of Indonesia annulled the results of a May 2009 legislative election. As a result, at least 26 legislators elected from nine political parties may lose their seats in the parliament. The decision requires the General Elections Commission to revise the results originally issued on May 11, on the grounds that the legislative seat allocation method was not in conformity with the Legislative Elections Law (Law No. 10/2008). The case had been brought to the Court by plaintiffs from five political parties that had lost parliamentary seats due to the allocation procedure followed by the Commission. An expert witness testifying at the hearing on the case, Refly Harun, stated that the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Agung Laksono, should not have been seated, as his party did not have enough votes to claim a seat for Laksono's electoral district. (Court Annuls Election Results, 26 Elected Legislators May Lose Seats, THE JAKARTA POST, June 11, 2009, available at http://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2009/06/11/court-annuls-election-resu |Author:||Constance Johnson More by this author| |Topic:||Elections More on this topic| |Jurisdiction:||Indonesia More about this jurisdiction| Search Legal News Find legal news by topic, country, keyword, date, or author. Global Legal Monitor RSS Get the Global Legal Monitor delivered to your inbox. Sign up for RSS service. The Global Legal Monitor is an online publication from the Law Library of Congress covering legal news and developments worldwide. It is updated frequently and draws on information from the Global Legal Information Network, official national legal publications, and reliable press sources. You can find previous news by searching the GLM. Last updated: 06/16/2009

To link to this article, copy this persistent link: (Jun 16, 2009) On June 11, 2009, the Constitutional Court of Indonesia annulled the results of a May 2009 legislative election. As a result, at least 26 legislators elected from nine political parties may lose their seats in the parliament. The decision requires the General Elections Commission to revise the results originally issued on May 11, o

Emergency Planning contains information and resources that people with disabilities, families, service providers, and others can use to become better informed and educated about how to best prepare for a broad range of disaster situations. Being prepared can greatly increase your safety, and your ability to take care of yourself during and immediately after the disaster. The Arc Minnesota promotes and protects the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and actively supports their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes. By advocating for people with developmental disabilities and their families, they also serve the broader disability community. Go to the Public Policy page of The Arc Minnesota website for current information, legislative alerts, and resources to become a more effective public policy advocate. All Hands On Deck is a biennial Policy Advisory of the Governor's Workforce Development Council (GWDC). The most recent Policy Advisory, issued on November 18, 2010, contains two recommendations for Expanding Work Opportunities for Minnesotans with Disabilities. These recommendations were prepared by an Employment Workgroup of the GWDC. The Commission of Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing Minnesotans recently launched a free online self-study course titled Video Captioning Essentials. This course teaches basic concepts needed to make an informed decision on what tools and resources to use to caption web videos. To learn more about the course visit http://www.mncdhh.org/captioningessentials. The Commission has also recently released an alternative version of Partners in Making Your Case in American Sign Language (ASL). The course can be directly accessed at http://www.mncdhh.org/makingyourcase. The Minnesota Department of Education must prepare an annual Child Count Report that includes the number of special education students by school district with a breakdown by type of disability. Conduct a search of your school district by following these steps. FS 360 Proposal Summary: The Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities proposes to create a one stop family support center to assist at least 50 targeted families on an annual basis to preserve, maintain, and strengthen the family unit. The center will be designed and provide the types of services identified by families and community members in the Near North neighborhoods of Minneapolis, Minnesota who participated in a series of focus groups that were conducted during the planning year. The National Association of Parents with Children in Special Education (NAPCSE) is a national association that is dedicated to ensuring that all children and adolescents with special needs receive the best education possible. NAPCSE serves the interest of parents with children in special education by giving them numerous resources within the field of special education. By having an association that they can truly call their own, parents with children in special education now have an association that is completely devoted to their needs. NAPCSE advances and strengthens its community through networking, research, publications, and membership benefits. The Red Book serves as a general reference source about the employment-related provisions of Social Security Disability Insurance and the Supplemental Security Income Programs for educators, advocates, rehabilitation professionals, and counselors who serve people with disabilities. This resource includes an overview of employment supports and how they help people with disabilities, and a section on health care and Medicaid protections for people with disabilities who are working or want to work. NASDDDS Handbook on Inclusive Meetings and Presentations: This Handbook provides guidelines to help assure that self advocates can participate in meeting discussions and contribute in meaningful ways by expressing their own points of view. The 2005-2007 edition of the "Minnesota Guidebook to State Agency Services" is now available online. This 10th edition of the Guidebook lists nearly all state government agencies and provides contact information that includes locations, telephone and fax numbers and e-mail and web site addresses. The new Guidebook is also available in a printed, 403-page version for $14.95, plus tax, from Minnesota's Bookstore, 660 Olive St. (one block east of I-35E and one block north of the University Avenue) in St. Paul. The Guidebook can be ordered online at www.minnesotasbookstore.com and by telephone at 651/297-3000 locally or 1-800-657-3757 toll-free outside the greater metropolitan area.

Emergency Planning contains information and resources that people with disabilities, families, service providers, and others can use to become better informed and educated about how to best prepare for a broad range of disaster situations. Being prepared can greatly increase your safety, and your ability to take care of yourself during and immediately after the disaster. The Arc Minnesota promotes

To view this film, you will require Adobe Flash 9 Release Date 2003 Sponsor Central Office of Information for Department for Education and Skills Text version of this film Bullying of children is an issue that has seen much publicity in recent years. This film conveys the message that children who are being picked on should not ‘suffer in silence’ and should try to find the courage to tell someone about what is happening to them. Copyright and access

To view this film, you will require Adobe Flash 9 Release Date 2003 Sponsor Central Office of Information for Department for Education and Skills Text version of this film Bullying of children is an issue that has seen much publicity in recent years. This film conveys the message that children who are being picked on should not ‘suffer in silence’ and should try to find the courage to tell someone

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 28, 2007 Contacts: Ben Sherman, NOAA John Butler, NFWF NOAA and National Fish and Wildlife Foundation Award $3.5 Million for Coral Reef Conservation The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and NOAA’s Coral Reef Conservation Program announced today the funding of 29 grants totaling more than $3.5 million through the jointly managed Coral Reef Conservation Fund (Coral Fund). The grants will go to conservation organizations and local governments in the Pacific and Atlantic oceans, Gulf of Mexico, and the Caribbean Sea to help prevent further negative impacts to coral reefs by educating local communities and improving management effectiveness. “Healthy coral reefs provide the United States and thousands of communities around the world with food, jobs, shoreline protection, recreation and income worth billions of dollars each year. However, many reefs are now seriously degraded,” said retired Navy Vice Admiral Conrad C. Lautenbacher, Jr., Ph.D., under secretary of commerce and NOAA administrator. “These grants will help communities from the Caribbean to Micronesia protect and restore valuable coral reefs and the economies that depend on them.” Coral Fund projects build public-private partnerships, increase community awareness and provide solutions to localized threats to coral reefs and associated habitats. Special emphasis is placed on projects demonstrating a hands-on, measurable approach to reducing land-based pollution, improving the management of coral reef protected areas or installing mooring buoys to protect reefs from anchor damage. The 29 grants were awarded to projects in 11 countries, two U.S. territories, and three U.S. freely associated states. The awards include $1.3 million in federal funds leveraged by an additional $2.2 million in matching contributions for a total of $3.5 million in on-the-ground projects. Additional funding partners include the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service and the Harold K.L. Castle Foundation, targeting coral conservation in Hawaii. “We’re pleased to support projects that address coral reef conservation across the globe for a seventh year,” said National Fish and Wildlife Foundation executive director Jeff Trandahl. “These grants are designed to identify and address the greatest threats to these very important and fragile marine habitats, and develop measurable conservation outcomes in order to track their performance. In addition, several projects will be supporting activities for the International Year of the Reef 2008 to raise awareness of the many threats facing coral reefs.” The Coral Reef Conservation Fund was created to assist NOAA in implementing the Coral Reef Conservation Act of 2000, and is managed by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation in partnership with the NOAA Coral Reef Conservation Program. To date, the foundation has awarded more than $19 million in federal and non-federal matching funds for 194 coral conservation projects in 35 countries. Each year, NOAA awards approximately $900 million in grants to members of the academic, scientific, and business communities to assist the agency in fulfilling its mission to study the Earth’s natural systems in order to predict environmental change, manage ocean resources, protect life and property, and provide decision makers with reliable scientific information. NOAA’s goals and programs reflect a commitment to these basic responsibilities of science and service to the nation for the past 35 years. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, an agency of the U.S. Commerce Department, is celebrating 200 years of science and service to the nation. From the establishment of the Survey of the Coast in 1807 by Thomas Jefferson to the formation of the Weather Bureau and the Commission of Fish and Fisheries in the 1870s, much of America's scientific heritage is rooted in NOAA. NOAA is dedicated to enhancing economic security and national safety through the prediction and research of weather and climate-related events and information service delivery for transportation, and by providing environmental stewardship of our nation's coastal and marine resources. Through the emerging Global Earth Observation System of Systems (GEOSS), NOAA is working with its federal partners, more than 60 countries and the European Commission to develop a global monitoring network that is as integrated as the planet it observes, predicts and protects. The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation is a nonprofit organization established by Congress in 1984 and dedicated to the conservation of fish, wildlife and plants, and the habitat on which they depend. The Foundation creates partnerships between the public and private sectors to strategically invest in conservation and the sustainable use of natural resources. The Foundation has provided funding to over 9,500 projects, leveraging $400 million in federal dollars to more than $1.3 billion in total funding for on-the-ground conservation. 2007 Coral Fund grant recipients: Strategic Communications Encouraging Coral Conservation, SeaWeb Communicate Science of International Coral Meeting (ICRS), SeaWeb Year of the Reef National Television Public Service Annoucements, UrbanArts Institute at Mass College of Art Expand and Maintain a Reef Saving Mooring Buoy System, Broward County Environmental Protection Department Reef Fish Protection Research in Dry Tortugas, FL,U.S. Geological Survey* Online Outreach and Social Networking Tools for the International Year of the Reef, Care2* International Year of the Reef 2008 Collaboration, Reef Check* Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument Imagery, Reef Fest, Race to the Reef, NFWF* Developing Tools for Assessing the Health of Reef Corals, Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology, Univ. of Hawaii Cleaning Waikoko Stream Discharge to Hanalei Coral Reefs, University of Hawaii Hawaii Coral Reef Conservation Through Community Involvement, Community Conservation Network Testing Sustainable Marine Tourism Standards on Maui, Coral Reef Alliance Assessing Biological Effectiveness of Palau's Marine Protected Areas, Palau International Coral Reef Center Pride Campaigns for Coral Conservation in Yap and Chuuk, Rare Pride Campaign for Coral Conservation in the Commonwealth of Northern Marianas Islands, Rare* Educating Fishermen on Benefits of Marine Protected Areas, Malaysia, World Wildlife Fund Enhanced Coral Reef Conservation Management in Vanuatu, Nguna-Pele Marine Protected Area (MPA) Enforcement and Education Outreach program in Malaysia, Reef Guardian Sdn. Bhd. Strengthening Enforcement in Verde Passage, Philippines, Conservation International Foundation Enforcement Chain in the Eastern Tropical Seascape, Conservation International* Bio-fuel for Reef Management in the Pacific, Community Conservation Network* Coral Reef Conservation in Pacific Island Nations, Reef and Rainforest Research Centre Limited* Guam Education and Outreach Campaign for International Year of the Reefs 2008, NMFS/PIRO/HCD – Guam Office* Caribbean/ Mesoamerican Projects: Bahamian Nassau Grouper Research and Public Education, Bahamas Reef Environment Educational Foundation Marine Conservation Training for Journalists in Belize, International Center for Journalists Reducing Boat Wastewater Discharges onto Coral Reefs, Oceanic Resources Foundation Economic Incentives for Caribbean and Pacific Marine Protected Areas, Conservation International* * Projects marked with an asterisk have been funded through the Special Topics in Coral Conservation partnership between NOAA and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. On the Web: NOAA Coral Reef Conservation Program – http://www.coralreef.noaa.gov National Fish and Wildlife Foundation – http://www.nfwf.org/coralreef Revised July 12, 2012 | Questions, Comments? Contact Us | Report Error | Disclaimer | About the Site | User Survey Web Site Owner: National Ocean Service | National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration | Department of Commerce | USA.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 28, 2007 Contacts: Ben Sherman, NOAA John Butler, NFWF NOAA and National Fish and Wildlife Foundation Award $3.5 Million for Coral Reef Conservation The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and NOAA’s Coral Reef Conservation Program announced today the funding of 29 grants totaling more than $3.5 million through the jointly managed Coral Reef Conservation Fund (Cor

SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION We improve SSA programs and operations and protect them against fraud, waste, and abuse by conducting independent and objective audits, evaluations, and investigations. We provide timely, useful, and reliable information and advice to Administration officials, the Congress, and the public. The Inspector General Act created independent audit and investigative units, called the Office of Inspector General (OIG). The mission of the OIG, as spelled out in the Act, is to: Conduct and supervise independent and objective audits and investigations relating to agency programs and operations. Promote economy, effectiveness, and efficiency within the agency. Prevent and detect fraud, waste, and abuse in agency programs and operations. Review and make recommendations regarding existing and proposed legislation and regulations relating to agency programs and operations. Keep the agency head and the Congress fully and currently informed of problems in agency programs and operations. To ensure objectivity, the IG Act empowers the IG with: Independence to determine what reviews to perform. Access to all information necessary for the reviews. Authority to publish findings and recommendations based on the reviews. By conducting independent and objective audits, investigations, and evaluations, we are agents of positive change striving for continuous improvement in the Social Security Administration's programs, operations, and management and in our own office. Date: August 31, 2004 To: The Commissioner From: Acting Inspector General Subject: Best Practices in the Highest Producing Hearing Offices (A-12-04-14020) Our objective was to identify potential factors and practices at hearing offices that result in differing levels of performance in the areas of productivity and timeliness. The Office of Hearings and Appeals (OHA) makes decisions on appealed determinations involving retirement, survivors, disability, and supplemental security income. The hearing organization consists of ten regional offices (RO) and 140 hearing offices. Within OHA, the Office of the Chief Administrative Law Judge (OCALJ) administers the nationwide hearings organization. OHA is one of the largest administrative adjudicative systems in the world with approximately 1,000 Administrative Law Judges (ALJ). According to OHA executives, dispositions per day per ALJ and hearing office processing time are OHA's key criteria for analyzing hearing office productivity. Since Fiscal Year (FY) 2001, OHA has increased its disposition rate (see Table 1). However, receipts have outpaced dispositions in all 3 FYs. When receipts outpace dispositions, the number of pending claims increase, and it takes longer on average to process a claim. Average processing time was 308 days in FY 2001 and 344 days in FY 2003. This review focused on the best practices for increasing dispositions and meeting the average processing time goal. Total dispositions and average processing time are reported yearly in the Social Security Administration's (SSA) Annual Performance and Accountability Report. Table 1: Hearing Office Key Indicators1 Dispositions OHA Nationwide Dispositions per Day per ALJ Pending OHA Nationwide Average Processing Time 2001 554,376 465,228 2.02 435,904 308 days 2002 596,959 532,106 2.20 500,757 336 days 2003 662,733 571,928 2.35 591,562 344 days Note 1: The table includes Medicare cases. To understand how best practices are being used in the hearing offices, we contacted 12 of OHA's highest producing hearing offices in both dispositions per day per ALJ and processing time. We did not assess internal controls or the impact that best practices had on hearing office effectiveness. Our scope and methodology is detailed in Appendix C. We conducted our audit from August 2003 to April 2004 in accordance with generally accepted government auditing standards. RESULTS OF REVIEW OHA has released numerous best practice ideas to hearings offices over the years to improve their disposition rates and timeliness. Recent best practice releases have been less useful due to (1) a lack of focus, (2) inability to determine the effectiveness of the best practices in recent memoranda, and (3) conflicting messages. We asked 12 of OHA's highest producing hearing offices, which best practices listed in an earlier OHA memorandum were being used. We discovered that the 12 selected hearing offices use 3 best practices for increasing dispositions and 5 best practices for meeting the average processing time goal. ISSUANCE OF BEST PRACTICES OHA has major challenges dealing with an increasing workload. In June 2002, OHA management initiated a process to identify best practices to increase dispositions and meet processing time goals. However, recent efforts at collecting and disseminating the best practices could have provided more meaningful guidance to the hearing offices had the best practices been better focused and more descriptive on how to implement the best practices. Lack of Focus in Recent Memoranda Numerous best practices in the recent memoranda sent by OHA's Office of Associate Commissioner to OHA's field management team made it difficult to distinguish which best practices were most useful. OHA management issued the following memoranda: June 25, 2002 memorandum contained 191 best practices; April 11, 2003 memorandum contained 271 best practices; and April 28, 2003 memorandum contained 49 "best of the best" practices. The best practices were described as a variety of management tools, creative ways to use reports, and management information and communication strategies. The field management team was instructed to review the list and take advantage of any of the good ideas that have worked successfully in the hearing offices. In contrast, prior to distributing these three memoranda, OHA had disseminated 24 best practice ideas through its earlier Practice and Procedures Exchange (from now on referred to as Exchange). The Exchange's mission was to obtain innovative ideas and work processes developed by hearing offices, and disseminate the best ideas to help the hearing offices perform more efficiently and effectively. A 1999 Office of the Inspector General report found that three-fourths of the hearing offices gave the Exchange a favorable rating, and most hearing offices reported that best practice releases were useful. In Table 2 we compare the Exchange best practice releases with the recent best practice memoranda. The Exchange distributed the best practices throughout OHA initially by paper, and then via the Intranet, while the memoranda's distribution was restricted. Also, the Exchange focused on a fewer number of best practices spread out over a number of years. In contrast, the memoranda covered a large number of best practices over a very short time period. Finally, the Exchange provided instructions for implementing the best practice along with guides to help the user implement the idea. There were no instructions and no guides provided in the memoranda. Table 2: Comparison of the Earlier Exchange with Later Best Practices Memoranda Best Practice Dissemination Distribution List Total Number of Best Practice Suggestions All of OHA June 25, 2002 Memorandum Field Management Team 191 April 11, 2003 Memorandum Field Management Team 271 April 28, 2003 Memorandum Regional Management Team 49 Inability to Determine Effectiveness of Best Practices in Recent Memoranda OCALJ asked the regional offices and hearing offices to submit their best practices, and then OCALJ compiled a best practice list that was included as an attachment to the April 11, 2003, memorandum. The best practices were placed into one column in a table and the entity that submitted the best practice was listed in another column next to the best practice. Most of the best practices were shown as being submitted by regional offices. However, while 27 hearing offices were listed as providing best practices for increasing dispositions, 12 of the 27 hearing offices had disposition rates below OHA's FY 2002 national disposition rate of 2.20 dispositions per day per ALJ. Furthermore, 23 hearing offices were listed as providing best practices for meeting the processing time goal, while 7 of the 23 hearing offices had average processing times above OHA's FY 2002 national average processing time of 336 days. One hearing office had an average processing time that was 93 days above the national average. OHA stated that the best practices highlighted in the memorandum have been proven successful in meeting hearing office goals, but the data shows that some hearing offices who submitted the best practices are not meeting goals. Also, OHA can not determine the source of most of the best practice submissions and can not validate how the use of the best practice benefited the hearing office's operation. Therefore, OHA can not determine if the best practices are likely to be effective in increasing dispositions or helping the hearing office meet the processing time goal. Conflicting Messages to Management Unlike OHA's Short-Term Initiatives (STI) that were approved by SSA's Commissioner, the best practices are not mandatory. Our review of the April 11, 2003, list of 271 best practices indicated that many best practice suggestions gave conflicting These voluntary best practices are very similar to the mandatory STIs. As a result, hearing offices may not know which of these best practices are mandatory and which are voluntary (see Table 3). Table 3: Comparison of 2003 Best Practices with 2002 Short-Term Initiatives Best Practices (Voluntary) Short-Term Initiative (Mandatory) Diligent Screening of Master Docket 1 Hearing offices screen cases to identify dismissals, On-the-Record2 (OTR) and Medicare Cases to "fast-track" to dispositions. Early Case Screening and Analysis by Administrative Law Judge In early case screening, ALJs examine unassembled cases from Master Docket and may issue immediate OTR favorable decisions. ALJs Make Immediate Decision After Hearing ALJs make immediate decisions after the hearing when possible to reduce case handling time. Bench Decision An ALJ issues a decision as soon as the hearing is over. Use Short-Form Format for Favorable Decisions3 ALJs use software that was developed to create fully favorable decisions. Short Form Software for Fully Favorable Decisions ALJs use software that was developed to create fully favorable decisions. Use Contract File Assembly Units Contract File Assembly Contractors assemble case folders to assist hearing offices in preparing backlogged cases. Use Video Teleconference Equipment Expanded Video Teleconferencing Hearings Enhances OHA's ability to schedule hearings expeditiously in remote4 locations. Encourage Writing Staff to Become Proficient with Voice Recognition Software Dragon Naturally Speaking, Speech Recognition Software Assist ALJs and support staff with drafting decisions. Note 1: Hearing offices maintain a Master Docket system, which contains all requests for hearings and remanded claims. There were 12 best practices in the April 11, 2003 memorandum related to screening cases. Note 2: OTR decisions are used when the ALJ reviews a claim prior to a hearing and decides that there is enough evidence to render a favorable decision. Claims decided OTR eliminate the standard delays associated with holding a hearing. Note 3: There were three best practices in the April 11, 2003 memorandum for using the Short-Form Format. Note 4: Remote sites are locations where hearings are held, other than the main hearing office. For instance, ALJs in the Charlottesville, Virginia hearing office use the video teleconference to hear cases from the Lewisburg, West Virginia HEARING OFFICE PRACTICES We interviewed the hearing office leaders in 12 of OHA's highest producing hearing offices. While the 12 HOCALJs and 12 HODs had received the 3 best practices memoranda, none had measured the impact on hearing office dispositions or timeliness by use of any best practice. As a result, we were unable to assess the potential benefits related to each practice. Nonetheless, we did obtain from each hearing office a list of best practices which they believe assisted them in meeting their disposition and timeliness goals. We list those best practices below. Hearing Office Best Practices to Increase Dispositions From OHA's June 2002 list of 55 best practices for increasing dispositions, the following 3 best practices are being used at all 12 hearing offices. Daily Assignment of Work The hearing office managers Assign Work Daily to the hearing office support staff. The hearing office manager's main duty is to administer the workload by supervising, planning, organizing, directing and controlling operating activities. For example, in the Jericho, New York hearing office, the hearing office managers assign 2 to 3 cases daily to each Decision Writer for completion. Management Review of Hearing Schedules At the 12 hearing offices we reviewed, Managers Review Hearing Schedules to ensure that every ALJ's requested case needs are met. For instance, in the Fort Smith, Arkansas hearing office, the HOD checks the Hearing Office Tracking System (HOTS) report daily to monitor the movement of claims. The Los Angeles, (Down Town) California hearing office assigned two case technicians primarily to prepare cases for hearings. Share Hearing Office Progress Daily/Weekly Daily/Weekly Sharing of Hearing Office Progress is a common trait. Hearing office managers share information on hearing office goals with their staff. As an example, in the Johnstown, Pennsylvania hearing office the HOCALJ ensures that all of the hearing office staff are well-versed on national, regional and hearing office goals. In the Dallas (Down Town), Texas hearing office, the HOD uses a team approach, making sure everyone has access to all of the information that is required to do their job. Best Practices to Improve Timeliness From OHA's June 2002 list of 41 best practices for meeting processing time goals, the following 5 best practices are being used at our selected 12 hearing offices. Oldest Cases Pulled First Pulling the Oldest Cases First is a priority at all 12 hearing offices. We realize that processing the oldest cases is time consuming, and takes resources away from meeting disposition goals; however, as mentioned in our recent report on OHA's Appeals Council, processing the oldest cases first should be a priority since it serves the claimants who have been waiting the longest. For example, the Portland, Maine hearing office implemented this best practice by assigning a Lead Case Technician (LCT) the responsibility for prioritizing all cases older than 300 days. Finalize and Mail Cases Throughout the Month OHA's current business process requires hearing offices to download their HOTS databases, containing all of their dispositions for the month, into a centralized database during the last week of each month. The 12 hearing offices we reviewed follow this procedure. However, all 12 hearing offices also use the best practice of Finalizing and Mailing Cases Throughout the Month. In these 12 hearing offices, as decisions are written and signed off by the ALJ, the claim is closed out and mailed immediately which helps reduce processing time. As of July 31, 2004, the HOTS databases were replaced by OHA's new Case Processing and Management System (CPMS). The decision's status is now entered into CPMS as soon as it is completed. Hearing offices will continue to finalize and mail completed cases throughout the month. Use Specialized Staff to Process Medicare Cases Using Specialized Staff to Process Medicare Cases is a best practice performed at our selected 12 hearing offices. For example, at the Johnstown, Pennsylvania hearing office, we learned that Medicare cases are assigned to LCTs only, because they require more experienced staff to prepare them for a hearing. SSA and the Department of Health and Human Services have agreed on a plan for the phased transfer of the Medicare hearings function. Therefore, this best practice will be unnecessary after SSA completes processing of its pending Medicare workload scheduled to be completed by September 30, 2005. Give Employees Continuous Feedback Hearing office managers in all 12 hearing offices use the best practice of Providing Continuous Feedback to Employees. For instance, in the Morgantown, West Virginia hearing office, the managers meet individually with staff to improve performance. In the Minneapolis, Minnesota, Paducah, Kentucky, and Kingsport, Tennessee hearing offices, a HOTS report is given to every employee each day. The HOTS report allows every employee to see how many cases they are working on, and how long they have been working on a case. Employees can track their productivity over time. In the Metairie, Louisiana hearing office, there is a policy of open communication where management is willing to assist staff with any of the duties they perform. Daily Management Monitoring of Workflow Daily Management Monitoring of Workflow is a best practice used by hearing office managers in the selected hearing offices. For example, the workload in the Atlanta (North), Georgia hearing office is divided among three groups. If work becomes backed up in one group, it is shifted to another group. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS We commend OHA for examining best practices as another tool to help them increase dispositions and meet their processing time goal. However, OHA would benefit from a more focused approach like its Practice and Procedures Exchange. We identified 3 best practices for increasing dispositions and 5 best practices for meeting the processing time goal that are being used at 12 of OHA's highest producing hearing offices we selected. We recommend SSA: 1. Consider developing a process similar to the earlier Practice and Procedures Exchange model in future development and releases of best practice ideas to the regional offices and hearing offices. 2. Share the eight best practices identified in our review with all hearing offices, thereby making them standard operating procedures, to increase dispositions and improve timeliness. AGENCY COMMENTS AND OIG RESPONSE SSA agreed with our recommendations. The Agency's comments are included in Appendix I. Patrick P. O'Carroll, Jr. APPENDIX A - Acronyms APPENDIX B - Background APPENDIX C - Scope and Methodology APPENDIX D - Highest Producing Hearing Offices Reviewed by the Social Security Administration's Office of the Inspector General APPENDIX E - Office of Hearings and Appeals Short-Term Initiatives APPENDIX F - Best Practices Used at the Selected 12 Office of Hearings and Appeals Highest Producing Hearing Offices APPENDIX G - Best Practices Used in All of the Selected 12 Office of Hearings and Appeals Hearing Offices versus Those Highlighted in Office of Hearings and Appeals' April 28, 2003, "Best of the Best" Practices Memorandum APPENDIX H - Prior Office of the Inspector General Reports Related to the Office of Hearings and Appeals Disability Process APPENDIX I - Agency Comments APPENDIX J - OIG Contacts and Staff Acknowledgments ALJ Administrative Law Judge AVID ALJ Verification Input Database CPMS Case Processing and Management System FY Fiscal Year GPRA Government Performance and Results Act GS Group Supervisor HOCALJ Hearing Office Chief Administrative Law Judge HOD Hearing Office Director HOTS Hearing Office Tracking System LCT Lead Case Technician OCALJ Office of Chief Administrative Law Judge OHA Office of Hearings and Appeals OIG Office of the Inspector General RCALJ Regional Chief Administrative Law Judge RMO Regional Management Officer RO Regional Office STI Short-Term Initiatives SSA Social Security Administration Since Fiscal Year (FY) 2001, the Office of Hearings and Appeals (OHA) has increased its dispositions (see Table B-1). According to OHA executives, the OHA nationwide disposition rate of 2.35 cases per day per Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) in FY 2003 was OHA's highest rate ever. However, there has been a wide range in performance in dispositions per day per ALJ in OHA's hearing offices in all 3 years. For instance, in FY 2003, one hearing office with the highest disposition 4.69 dispositions per day per ALJ, while another hearing office with the lowest disposition rate processed only 1.18 dispositions per day per ALJ. Table B-1: 3-Year Trend in Hearing Office Dispositions1 Dispositions OHA Nationwide Dispositions per Day per ALJ Highest Dispositions per Day per ALJ Lowest Dispositions per Day per ALJ 2001 465,228 2.02 4.32 .83 2002 532,106 2.20 5.16 1.05 2003 571,928 2.35 4.69 1.18 Note 1: The table includes Medicare cases. OHA uses three criteria for determining its processing time goal: past performance (including pending levels and age of pending), special initiatives (i.e. training) and a mix of casework (including receipt levels). Receipts have been outpacing dispositions, causing an increase in pending claims and average processing time (see Table B-2). Average processing time was 308 days in FY 2001, and increased to 344 days in FY 2003. There is a wide range of performance in timeliness among OHA's hearing offices. In FY 2003, the lowest average processing time in one hearing office was 142 days, while another hearing office had the highest average processing time of 525 days. Table B-2: 3-Year Trend in Timeliness1 Pending Claims National Average Lowest Average Processing Time Highest Average Processing Time 2001 554,376 435,904 308 176 455 2002 596,959 500,757 336 188 523 2003 662,733 591,562 344 142 525 Note 1: The table includes Medicare cases. PERFORMANCE MEASURE REPORTING The Government Performance Results Act of 1993 established a framework through which Federal agencies set goals, measure performance, and report on the extent to which those goals were met. Agencies prepare 5-year strategic plans, annual performance plans, and annual performance reports. Strategic Objective: Make the right decision in the disability process as early as possible. Output Measure: Table B-3: Number of Hearings Processed FY Goal Actual 2000 622,400 539,426 2001 582,000 465,228 2002 580,000 532,106 2003 602,000 571,928 FY Projection Actual 2004 538,000* ------- 2005 596,000* ------- * These projections exclude Medicare cases. Data Definition: The number of hearings processed. SSA plans to transfer the Medicare hearings function to the Department of Health and Human Services by the end of FY 2005. Outcome Measure: Table B-4: Average Processing Time for Hearings FY Goal Actual 2000 268 days 297 days 2001 208 days 308 days 2002 259 days 336 days 2003 352 days 344 days 2004 377 days ------- 2005 344 days ------- Data Definition: Beginning in FY 2000, this indicator was redefined to represent the average elapsed time, from the hearing request date until the date of the notice of the decision, of all hearings level cases processed during all months of the FY. Outcome Measure: Table B-5: Number of Hearings Pending FY Goal Actual 2000 209,000 346,756 2001 ------- 435,904 2002 ------- 500,757 2003 587,000 591,562 2004 586,000 ------- 2005 550,000 ------- Data Definition: This indicator represents all hearings pending in the OHA through FY 2003. Beginning in FY 2004, Medicare hearings were excluded from the number of hearings pending: 57,000 Medicare hearings were excluded from the number of hearings pending for FY 2004 and 58,000 excluded from the hearings pending for FY 2005. Scope and Methodology Reviewed Office of Hearings and Appeals (OHA) policies and procedures. Reviewed Office of the Inspector General (OIG) and General Accountability Office (GAO) reports, OHA's Quarterly Reports on the Social Security Administration's (SSA) disability process, and other relevant documents. Reviewed OHA's best practice memoranda of June 25, 2002, April 11, 2003, and April 28, 2003. Used OHA bi-weekly staffing reports to categorize hearing offices according to size; small hearing offices (less than seven Administrative Law Judges (ALJ)), medium hearing offices (seven or eight ALJs), and large hearing offices (more than eight ALJs). Obtained hearing office performance data from OHA's National Ranking Reports. Created spreadsheets for ranking small, medium and large hearing offices in dispositions per day per ALJ and average processing time for Fiscal Years (FY) 2001, 2002, and 2003. Selected 4 hearing offices to visit and 8 hearing offices for phone interviews that were in the top 15 for both dispositions per day per ALJ and processing time in FYs 2001, 2002, or 2003, or hearing offices that have had recent considerable increased performance in either increasing their number of dispositions per day per ALJ or lowering their processing time. We selected four hearing offices to visit in four different regions (see Appendix D). The 8 hearing offices with which we conducted phone interviews are located in 6 of the 10 regions. Distributed questionnaires to 12 hearing offices to determine which best practices are being used. Conducted interviews with OHA headquarter staff, regional office management staff and hearing office staff at 12 hearing offices. Highest Producing Hearing Offices Reviewed by the Social Security Administration's Office of the Inspector General We chose 12 hearing offices from among the top 15 hearing offices in terms of dispositions per day per Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) and processing time in Fiscal Years 2001, 2002, or 2003, or they had recent considerable increased performance in either increasing their number of dispositions per day per ALJ or lowering their processing time. Tables D-1 through D-3 display the hearing offices we reviewed and their associated regional offices. Table D-1: Small Hearing Offices (less than 7 ALJs ) Hearing Office Regional Office Johnstown, Pennsylvania * III Fort Smith, Arkansas VI Los Angeles (Down Town), California IX Paducah, Kentucky IV Portland, Maine I Table D-2: Medium Hearing Offices (7 or 8 ALJs ) Hearing Office Regional Office Jericho, New York * II Metairie, Louisiana * VI Morgantown, West Virginia III Kingsport, Tennessee IV Table D-3: Large Hearing Offices (more than 8 ALJs ) Hearing Office Regional Office Atlanta (North), Georgia * IV Dallas (Down Town), Texas VI Minneapolis, Minnesota V * Auditors from the Office of the Inspector General visited these hearing offices. Office of Hearings and Appeals Short-Term Initiatives The Social Security Administration's (SSA) Office of Hearings and Appeals (OHA) implemented eight Short-Term Initiatives (STI) late in Fiscal Year (FY) 2002 to improve the hearing process. The first two STIs centered on hearing office processes: Contract File Assembly In the Contract File Assembly initiative, contractors assemble case folders to assist hearing offices in preparing backlogged cases for Administrative Law Judges (ALJ) to schedule hearings. Contractors assembled over 40,000 files in FY 2003. Ending Rotational Assignments OHA Ended Rotational Assignments among certain clerical functions that was implemented in its Hearing Process Improvement initiative. This action allows support staff to concentrate on their case preparation duties. These next six STIs were designed to expedite the decision-making process and reduce processing time. Early Case Screening and Analysis by Administrative Law Judge In Early Case Screening, ALJs examine unassembled cases from the Master Docket and may issue immediate on-the-record favorable decisions. Screening helps eliminate standard delays and additional expense associated with holding a hearing. Screening also helps identify cases that need further development which helps move the cases along at an earlier stage. In FY 2003, ALJs screened about 66,000 cases and issued favorable decisions to approximately 21,600 claimants. Short Form Software for Fully Favorable Decisions OHA's hearing offices use standardized software to allow ALJs to create fully favorable decisions. In FY 2003, ALJs wrote over 23,600 decisions using the Short Form Software for Fully Favorable Decisions, which reduced handoffs and further delays. In Bench Decisions, an ALJ issues a decision as soon as the hearing is over. ALJs issued over 1,100 favorable decisions from the bench in FY 2003. Expanding Video Hearings Video Hearings enhances OHA's ability to expeditiously schedule hearings in remote locations. In FY 2003, OHA prepared and published final regulatory changes, which permit OHA to schedule video hearings without obtaining advance consent from the claimant. At the end of FY 2003, OHA had video hearing equipment in 35 sites and anticipates adding at least 126 sites in Dragon Naturally Speaking, Speech Recognition Software Dragon Naturally Speaking, Speech Recognition Software assists ALJs and support staff with drafting decisions. In FY 2003, OHA distributed the software to more than 1,000 decision writers and ALJs. Digitally Recording Hearings Digitally Recording Hearings is a new method of recording hearings that replaces OHA's aging audiocassette recorders with notebook computers. The notebooks have state-of-the-art software to record hearing proceedings in a digital file that can be stored on a hard drive, a local server and in the electronic folder. In FY 2004, OHA plans to install the digital recording equipment in five pilot hearing offices and begin using digital recording technology in an actual hearing. Best Practices Used at the Selected 12 Office of Hearings and Appeals Highest Producing Hearing Offices Hearing Offices Best Practices for Increasing Dispositions 12 of 12 Daily assignment of work. 12 of 12 Management review of hearings schedules. 12 of 12 Share hearing office progress daily/weekly. 11 of 12 Case Technicians closely monitor and control cases in Post-Hearing Development. 11 of 12 If Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) agrees, schedule hearing while waiting for requested development. 11 of 12 Hearing office management team members draft decisions. 10 of 12 Encourage ALJs to schedule at least 40-60 cases per month. 10 of 12 Do batch scheduling of hearings by representative, by claim type, or by expert. 10 of 12 Management keeps ALJs focused on moving cases in ALJ Review (Pre-Hearing), ALJ Review (Post-Hearing) and Awaiting ALJ signature via Hearing Office Tracking System (HOTS) Report and list of pending cases. 9 of 12 Clearly communicate performance expectations. Identify employees with performance problems and use performance assistance plans to address concerns. 9 of 12 Emphasize to all hearing parties that all evidence should be obtained and available by the hearing date. 9 of 12 Obtain development of case file very early in hearing process. 9 of 12 ALJs focus on ALJ Review (Post-Hearing) on days they have no hearings scheduled. 9 of 12 Assign 4-6 cases to be pulled1 on each flexi place day. Note 1: Pulling is the term hearing offices use when organizing all of the documentation in a claims folder prior to holding a hearing before an ALJ. Hearing Offices Best Practices for Meeting Processing Time Goal 12 of 12 Oldest cases pulled first. 12 of 12 Finalize and mail cases throughout the month. 12 of 12 Use specialized staff to process Medicare cases.1 12 of 12 Give employees continuous feedback. 12 of 12 Daily management monitoring of workflow. 11 of 12 Close monitoring and tracking by hearing office management of progress of ALJ 9000 cases. (An ALJ 9000 case is a label used by hearing offices when a claimant files a subsequent application even though their prior application had not yet been decided.) 11 of 12 Foster hearing office culture that ALJs cover hearings for other ALJs taking unexpected leave. 10 of 12 Hearing Office Chief ALJ (HOCALJ) use of Automated Verification Input Database (AVID)2 procedure to dispose of paid claims for ALJs in travel or on leave. 10 of 12 Assign aged cases immediately when moved to a new HOTS status. 10 of 12 Attorney contacted by phone to verify availability for hearing. 9 of 12 HOCALJ review of HOTS status reports to identify cases in Post-Hearing Development or ALJ Review (Post-Hearing) that have been in this status over 30 days. 9 of 12 Direct contact with SSA's Field Office management on issue of claims file receipt time, and/or adherence to established follow-up procedures (similar process used when requesting prior files from Program Service Centers). 9 of 12 Schedule priority cases in gaps between hearings on ALJ calendar. 9 of 12 Fill postponement slots with dire need, congressional interest, and overpayment cases (likely to waive notice period). 9 of 12 Phone contact with un-represented claimant just before hearing date; prepare detailed report of contact. Note 1: SSA and the Department of Health and Human Services have agreed on a plan for the phased transfer of the Medicare hearings function. Therefore, this best practice will be unnecessary after SSA completes processing of its pending Medicare workload scheduled to be completed by September 30, 2005. Note 2: AVID procedure allows the HOCALJ to sign-off on a claim for an ALJ, if the ALJ is on travel or leave. Best Practices Used in All of the Selected 12 Office of Hearings and Appeals Highest Producing Hearing Offices versus Those Highlighted in OHA's April 28, 2003 "Best of the Best" Practices Memorandum In Table G-1 we illustrate the best practices used in all 12 of the Office of Hearing and Appeal's (OHA) highest producing hearing offices and whether the best practice was highlighted in the memorandum. Table G-1: Best Practices Used by the 12 selected OHA's Highest Producing Hearing Offices versus Those Highlighted in April 28, 2003 Memorandum Used by all 12 Selected OHA Highest Producing Hearing Offices April 28, 2003 Best of the Best Practices Memorandum Best Practices for Increasing Dispositions 1. Daily assignment of work. No 2. Management review of hearings schedules. Yes 3. Share hearing office progress daily/weekly. Yes Best Practices for Meeting the Processing Time Goal 1. Oldest cases pulled1 first. No 2. Use specialized staff to process Medicare cases.2 No 3. Finalize and mail cases throughout the month. Yes 4. Give employees continuous feedback. Yes 5. Daily management monitoring of workflow. Yes Note 1: Pulling is the term hearing offices use when organizing all of the documentation in a claim's folder prior to holding a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge. Note 2: The Social Security Administration and the Department of Health and Human Services have agreed on a plan for the phased transfer of the Medicare hearings function. Therefore, this best practice will be unnecessary after SSA completes processing of its pending Medicare workload scheduled to be completed by September 30, 2005. Prior Office of the Inspector General Reports Related to the Office of Hearings and Appeals Disability Process Common Identification Number Report Title Date Issued A-07-04-24076 Review of File Assembly Contracts at Office of Hearings and Appeals March 2004 A-13-04-24045 Chicago Regional Office of Hearings and Appeals Claimant Medical Files January 2004 A-12-02-12015 Appeals Council Process Improvement Action Plan January 2004 A-13-03-23091 Operations at the Social Security Administration's Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Office of Hearings and Appeals November 2003 A-02-03-13033 Summary of the Office of the Inspector General's Reviews of the Social Security Administration's Performance Data September 2003 A-12-00-10057 Performance Measure Review: Reliability of the Data Used to Measure the Office of Hearings and Appeals Decisional Accuracy April 2002 A-12-00-10027 Approval of Claimant Representatives and Fees Paid to Attorneys August 2001 A-06-99-51005 Vocational Experts and Medical Experts Fees for Services August 2001 A-12-00-10023 Internal Controls Over the Office of Hearings and Appeals Interpreter Services August 2001 A-06-97-21007 Implementation of Best Practices in the Office of Hearings and Appeals Operations August 1999 Date: August 13, 2004 To: Patrick P. O'Carroll, Jr. Acting Inspector General From: Larry W. Dye Chief of Staff Subject: Office of the Inspector General (OIG) Draft Report "Best Practices in Highest Producing Hearing Offices" (Audit No. 22003083)--INFORMATION We appreciate OIG's efforts in conducting this review. Our comments on the draft report content and recommendations are attached. Please let me know if we can be of further assistance. Staff inquiries may be directed to Candace Skurnik, Director, Audit Management and Liaison Staff, at extension 54636. COMMENTS ON THE OFFICE OF THE INSPECTOR GENERAL (OIG) DRAFT REPORT "BEST PRACTICES IN HIGHEST PRODUCING HEARING OFFICES" (A-12-04-14020) Thank you for the opportunity to review and comment on the draft report. We have reviewed the conclusions and appreciate that our efforts at compiling and disseminating best practices have been recognized. We agree with the recommendations. We will consider developing a process similar to our previous Practice and Procedures Exchange model in future development and releases of best practice ideas. Further, recommendation number 2 will be implemented by August 31, 2004. The Office of Hearings and Appeals is expected to release a memo to the Regional Chief Administrative Law Judges regarding the standard operating procedures for increasing dispositions and improving timeliness at all hearing offices. [In addition to the information listed above, SSA also provided technical comments which have been addressed, where appropriate, in this report.] OIG Contacts and Staff Acknowledgments Walter Bayer, Director (215) 597-4080 Michael Maloney, Audit Manager, (703) 578-8844 In addition to those named above: Nicholas Milanek, Auditor-in-Charge Mary Ann Braycich, Program Analyst Melissa McDaniel, Auditor Ellen Silvela, Auditor Annette DeRito, Writer-Editor For additional copies of this report, please visit our web site at www.ssa.gov/oig or contact the Office of the Inspector General's Public Affairs Specialist at (410) 965-3218. Refer to Common Identification Number A-12-04-14020. Overview of the Office of the Inspector General The Office of the Inspector General (OIG) is comprised of our Office of Investigations (OI), Office of Audit (OA), Office of the Chief Counsel to the Inspector General (OCCIG), and Office of Executive Operations (OEO). To ensure compliance with policies and procedures, internal controls, and professional standards, we also have a comprehensive Professional Responsibility and Quality Assurance program. Office of Audit OA conducts and/or supervises financial and performance audits of the Social Security Administration's (SSA) programs and operations and makes recommendations to ensure program objectives are achieved effectively and efficiently. Financial audits assess whether SSA's financial statements fairly present SSA's financial position, results of operations, and cash flow. Performance audits review the economy, efficiency, and effectiveness of SSA's programs and operations. OA also conducts short-term management and program evaluations and projects on issues of concern to SSA, Congress, and the general public. Office of Investigations OI conducts and coordinates investigative activity related to fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement in SSA programs and operations. This includes wrongdoing by applicants, beneficiaries, contractors, third parties, or SSA employees performing their official duties. This office serves as OIG liaison to the Department of Justice on all matters relating to the investigations of SSA programs and personnel. OI also conducts joint investigations with other Federal, State, and local law enforcement agencies. Office of the Chief Counsel to the Inspector General OCCIG provides independent legal advice and counsel to the IG on various matters, including statutes, regulations, legislation, and policy directives. OCCIG also advises the IG on investigative procedures and techniques, as well as on legal implications and conclusions to be drawn from audit and investigative material. Finally, OCCIG administers the Civil Monetary Penalty program. Office of Executive Operations OEO supports OIG by providing information resource management and systems security. OEO also coordinates OIG's budget, procurement, telecommunications, facilities, and human resources. In addition, OEO is the focal point for OIG's strategic planning function and the development and implementation of performance measures required by the Government Performance and Results Act of 1993.

SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION We improve SSA programs and operations and protect them against fraud, waste, and abuse by conducting independent and objective audits, evaluations, and investigations. We provide timely, useful, and reliable information and advice to Administration officials, the Congress, and the public. The Inspector General Act created independent audit and investigative units, c

Individual differences | Methods | Statistics | Clinical | Educational | Industrial | Professional items | World psychology | |Molecular mass||223.31 g/mol| |Melting point||207-209 °C hydrochloride| In his book 'PiHKAL' (Phenethylamines I Have Known and Loved), Shulgin listed 2C-P's dosage between 6-10 mg, with 16 mg being labelled an "overdose." 2C-P is one of the most potent in the 2C family of psychedelics, rivalled only by 2C-TFM. A consistent feature with 2C-P is a steep dose/response curve. As little as 1 to 2 mg can be the difference between effects which are moderate and enjoyable, and those which are excessive and frightening. The need for an accurate milligram scale is of the utmost importance with 2C-P. 2C-P produces intense hallucinogenic, psychedelic, and entheogenic effects. The drug has a very slow onset if ingested, and peak effects do not occur for 3 to 5 hours. A 2C-P experience can last anywhere between 10 to 16 hours, or even longer with higher dosages. Many have reported that the effects of 2C-P are similar to other phenethylamines, especially 2C-E, but are significantly longer lasting. Intense visionary experiences similar to those of LSD have been reported, and many reports indicate that the effects of this particular chemical may be overwhelming for those not well experienced with psychedelics. Aleph • 2C-B • 2C-B-FLY • 2C-C • 2C-D • 2C-E • 2C-F • 2C-G • 2C-I • 2C-N • 2C-O • 2C-O-4 • 2C-P • 2C-T • 2C-T-2 • 2C-T-4 • 2C-T-7 • 2C-T-8 • 2C-T-9 • 2C-T-13 • 2C-T-15 • 2C-T-17 • 2C-T-21 • 2C-TFM • 3C-E • 3C-P • Br-DFLY • DESOXY • DMMDA-2 • DOB • DOC • DOET • DOI • DOM • DON • Escaline • Ganesha • HOT-2 • HOT-7 • HOT-17 • Isoproscaline • Lophophine • MDA • MMDA • MMDA-2 • MMDA-3a • MMDMA • Macromerine • Mescaline • Proscaline • TMA |This page uses Creative Commons Licensed content from Wikipedia (view authors).|

Individual differences | Methods | Statistics | Clinical | Educational | Industrial | Professional items | World psychology | |Molecular mass||223.31 g/mol| |Melting point||207-209 °C hydrochloride| In his book 'PiHKAL' (Phenethylamines I Have Known and Loved), Shulgin listed 2C-P's dosage between 6-10 mg, with 16 mg being labelled an "overdose." 2C-P is one of the most potent in the 2C family of

Individual differences | Methods | Statistics | Clinical | Educational | Industrial | Professional items | World psychology | Hashish (from Arabic: حشيش ḥashīsh, lit. grass; also hash or many slang terms) is a preparation of Cannabis composed of the compressed trichomes collected from the Cannabis plant. It contains the same active ingredients as Cannabis (but in higher concentrations) and produces the same psychoactive effects[How to reference and link to summary or text]. Laws which apply to Cannabis usually also apply to hashish[How to reference and link to summary or text]. Hashish is solid, of varying hardness and pliability, softening under heat. Its colour can vary from reddish brown to black or it can be golden coloured or greenish if it contains surplus plant material. It is consumed in much the same way as Cannabis buds, often being smoked in joints mixed with tobacco or Cannabis buds, or in smoking pipes, or vapourized. It can also be eaten or used as an ingredient of food (typically cookies, cakes or brownies). It is believed that hash first originated from Central Asia, as this region was among the first to be populated by the Cannabis plant, which may have originated in the Himalayas[How to reference and link to summary or text]. Traditionally C. sativa subsp. indica has been cultivated for production of hashish[How to reference and link to summary or text]. Hash quickly spread around the world after the Arabs began to gather and trade it[How to reference and link to summary or text]. Production of hash later spread to North Africa (most prominently Morocco) and the Middle East (Lebanon) and then South Asia (mostly in India and Pakistan). Consumption of hashish saw a dramatic increase in the 20th century, becoming a popular pastime in Europe and America, gaining prominence in the hippie scene[How to reference and link to summary or text]. Hashish levels declined significantly in the United States starting in the 1980s for several reasons, including the Soviet war in Afghanistan. Mostly the decline was due to a huge jump in price and quality of imported marijuana [How to reference and link to summary or text]. This helped increase the popularity of marijuana use in North America, and encouraged new growing methods such as growing marijuana indoors[How to reference and link to summary or text]. Manufacturing processes Edit Hash is made from tetrahydrocannabinol-rich glandular hairs known as trichomes, as well as varying amounts of Cannabis flower and leaf fragments. The flowers of a mature female plant contain the most trichomes, though trichomes also occur on other parts of the plant. Certain strains of Cannabis are cultivated specifically for their ability to produce large quantities of trichomes, and are thus called hash plants. The resin reservoirs of the trichomes (sometimes erroneously called pollen) are separated from the plant via various methods. The resulting concentrate is formed into blocks of hashish, which can be easily stored and transported. Alternatively, the powder consisting of uncompressed, dry trichomes is often referred to as kief instead of hashish. Mechanical separation methods use physical action to remove the trichomes from the plant. Sieving over a fine screen is a vital part of most methods. The plants may be sifted by hand or in motorized tumblers. Hash made in this way is sometimes called dry sift. Finger hash is produced by rolling the ripe trichome-covered flowers of the plant between the fingers and collecting the resin that sticks to the fingers. It is a highly labour intensive process which produces spherical balls of resin. Trichomes and resins can also be collected passively through cleaning of scissors that have been used to cut the plant, or containers like a kief-box used to store it. Ice water separation is a more modern mechanical separation method which submerges the plant in ice and water and stirs the mixture. Trichomes are broken off the plant as the ice moves, while the low temperature make the trichomes more brittle so they break off easily. The waste plant matter, detached trichomes, and water are separated by filtering through a series of increasingly fine screens. Kits are commercially available which provide a series of filter screens meant to fit inside standard bucket sizes. Hash made in this way is sometimes called ice hash, or bubble hash. Chemical separation methods generally use a solvent to dissolve the desirable resins in the plant while not dissolving undesirable components. The solid plant material is then filtered out of the solution and discarded. The solvent may then be evaporated, leaving behind the desirable resins. As THC is fat-soluble, it is also possible to dissolve hashish in butter and use it for cooking (see hash cookies and Alice B. Toklas brownies). The product of chemical separations is more commonly referred to as honey oil, hash oil, or just oil. The main factors affecting quality are potency and purity. Different Cannabis plants will produce resins with unique chemical profiles which vary in potency. The manufacturing process may to some degree introduce less desirable materials such as tiny pieces of leaf matter or even purposefully added adulterants; these reduce the purity of the hash. Pure, properly stored hashish of premium quality is soft and can be moulded by the heat of the fingers alone[How to reference and link to summary or text]. Old, improperly stored hashish of poor quality is rock-hard and brittle, and has to be heated substantially before it is soft enough for use (although some hashish of considerable potency, usually Moroccan, may also be found in hard form)[How to reference and link to summary or text]. Most hashish falls in between these two extremes, and the tactile qualities also vary according to the methods used in extraction and pressing. There is also hashish of greenish or reddish hue. A green tinge may indicate that the hashish is impure, which has been cut with low-quality leaf or contains high quantities of chlorophyll. Low quality forms of hash often contain adulterants used as cutting agents added to exaggerate the value of hash through increasing the volume or including other cheaper drugs.[How to reference and link to summary or text] Such forms usually possess a low potency and may have a strangeness in taste and feel. The adulterants in the hash may range from waste material from the Cannabis plant to products such as soap, vaseline, beeswax, boot polish, licorice, henna, ground coffee, milk powder, pine resin, barbiturates, ketamine, aspirin, glues and dyes, as well as carcinogenic solvents such as toluene and benzene.[How to reference and link to summary or text] The low quality may lead one to smoke more to get the same effect. Because hashish, particularly in Northern Europe, is often adulterated, some people have started boiling their hash in water for a few minutes and then drying it before smoking. This is thought to remove all water-soluble adulterants while the psychoactive cannabinols remain intact as the temperature isn't sufficient to destroy them and they aren't soluble in water.[How to reference and link to summary or text] Hash by Region Edit Hashish is traditionally produced in desert conditions and is almost never cultivated in the tropics. It is traditionally found in a belt extending from North Africa to North India and into Central Asia [How to reference and link to summary or text]. The primary hash-producing countries are Afghanistan, Pakistan, Nepal, Morocco, Egypt, and India[How to reference and link to summary or text]. Charas and gardaa are the primary products. Much of the hash available is high quality, although some adulterated product is available, easily identifiable by its relatively low prices. Charas, a substance which is hand-rubbed directly from the Cannabis plant, is generally produced in Nepal and India. Users report that charas generally produces a more trippy, "up" high due to the plants being mostly Sativa[How to reference and link to summary or text]. Pollen or "blonde hash", often from Morocco and the Netherlands, tends to produce both cerebral and narcotic highs, depending on the Cannabis strain used to produce it[How to reference and link to summary or text]. A visitor to the Rif mountains and the town of Ketama in Morocco in Dec 1976 described the production of hashish. Workers rubbed the leaves of the Cannabis plant over fine muslin fabric. When 100 grams of the powder was collected it was then wrapped in more fine muslin, put onto a heated metal plate, and rolled down with a bottle. This process produced a slightly sticky solid brown mass in the form of a square slab, around half the size of a paper-back book and about 1/2 centimetre thick. This block would be wrapped in cellophane. Only genuine top-quality hashish carried the imprint of the muslin on the surface of the block.[How to reference and link to summary or text] In Afghanistan there is a method of making hash which resembles charas. First, Cannabis resin is placed on a large heated mortar, then the resin is threshed with a heavy object. The result is a very gooey, sticky black hash. This method is mostly used in villages around the Hindu Kush mountain region[How to reference and link to summary or text]. Hash is also produced now in the deserts of Northern Mexico however the demand for it and thus amount produced is insignificant compared to that for fresh Mexican marijuana, especially into the lucrative United States markets[How to reference and link to summary or text]. Hashish is more widely available in Europe, North Africa and parts of Asia than elsewhere. Reasons for its use in Europe include the fact that hashish is much more compact and thus easier to smuggle than marijuana, and also simply that the producing countries are much closer to Europe than to other developed world markets (where the price is much higher than in the developing world) and have a long tradition of making hashish for storage and export. The market expansion for marijuana in Europe is also happening because dealers in certain countries offer extremely adulterated hash almost exclusively[How to reference and link to summary or text]. Marijuana is more difficult to adulterate, although some dealers attempt to modify it as well, usually with less success than with hash. Some young European consumers have become so accustomed to impure hashish that they erroneously believe it is the only quality available. Morocco's hash product is exported almost entirely to Europe, Algeria and Tunisia, with only a small fraction seeming to reach the United States . About 80% of the hashish seized in France every year comes from Morocco. In France and the German- and French-speaking parts of Switzerland, this is known as Maroc (Maroc meaning Morocco in French). In Spain it is called Costo, and Chocolate. In the United Kingdom, it is variously known as brown (also a name for heroin in some parts of the UK), hash, resin, puff, blow, soap bar, solid, and block. In the Netherlands, this is called Maroc, Lieb (Lebanon) or, from quality zero being best to secundeira being worst: triple zero, zero zero, super primaira, primaira, secundeira. Also, there is a branch of nearly white powder hash (pollen or kief has) that is the result of not stamping the raw material for the more common compressed hashish. Soft hash that is usually very dark brown to black in colour goes under the name black in France, squidgey or soft black (named due to the colour and properties of the hash) in the UK, or Paki Black in Spain (meaning it originates from Pakistan). Soft, dark hash is in the Netherlands normally referred to as Afghan. Also popular brands are Citral and Fungus in Kashmir. Hash is far less popular in the United States than in Europe. Though hashish use is experiencing a resurgence in parts of North America (especially the Pacific Northwest) with the popularity and commercial availability of ice-water extraction kits[How to reference and link to summary or text]. Preparation and methods of use Edit Like ordinary Cannabis preparations, hashish is usually smoked, though it can also be eaten or vapourized. Hash is often crumbled into tiny pieces or formed into shapes to obtain maximum surface area when burning. Hash can be smoked in most implements used for cannabis smoking, sometimes a pipe screen is used. Often hash is mixed with tobacco, Cannabis, or another herb. Heat may be used to bond the hash to the other smokeable substance. This mixture can be rolled up into a cigarette or smoked in a pipe. A piece of hash may be ignited by cigarette coals or other means and placed inside a container. The smoke that collects inside can then be inhaled. Dabous or Khabour (stick in Arabic) is a North African technique. Bottle tokes is a similar method found in Canada and also in Russia. Hash can be placed on very hot pieces of metal and the resulting smoke inhaled. Hot knives is a method that involves heating up knives on a stove and then crushing a little ball of the hash between them and inhaling the released smoke with a straw. Hash cones is a method where a piece of hash is attached to metal wire and then heated. Honey oil Edit Honey oil (often shortened to oil, and sometimes referred to as BHO, or butane hash oil, which is particular to the method by which it is made) is an essential oil that has a viscosity ranging from thick to runny, extracted from the cannabis plant. It is commonly smoked using hot metal blades or plates, inhaled using specially designed vaporizers, or smoked from a bed of ashes. Honey oil is considerably more potent than cannabis itself, due to its extreme purity and lack of other vegetative matter. Honey oil is a psychoactive drug in the same class as cannabis, from which it is derived, and contains a similar blend of THC, cannabidinoids, and cannibidinols (in the UK, cannabis and hashish are class C while cannabis oil is class A). The THC content of honey oil is variable based on the particular strain of cannabis from which it was derived, and is similar to that of hashish. The name honey refers to the colour and consistency of the oil, there is not actual honey involved. Honey oil is made by separating the resins of a cannabis plant from the plant material, using one of a number of industrial solvents, such as butane, hexane, grain alcohol and denatured alcohol, naphtha, and various mixtures of these chemicals. Solvents are selected based on their ability to evaporate completely and cleanly, leaving no chemical residue, as well as which substances they more readily dissolve. The purest, most potent grades of honey oil are made using only the flowers and leaves of the female cannabis plant which contain trichomes. This material is placed in a metal or plastic sleeve and washed in chemical solvents to separate the resin from the plant material. The solvent slurry is optionally filtered, then reduced by evaporation, resulting in paste that varies in colour from amber to dark green. This paste if filtered will be translucent and runny. If the paste is not filtered, it may by very thick, and opaque. The most common solvent used in the preparation of honey oil is high-grade butane, sold in sporting goods stores and used in camping stoves and cigarette lighters. Due to the low boiling point and extreme combustibility of butane, extreme care is needed in the handling and preparation of these materials. Honey oil made using isopropyl alcohol is referred to as ISO Oil or as QWISO for Quick Wash ISO and is quickly replacing butane as the most common solvent for making Honey Oil. Isopropyl alcohol is safer than butane . Honey oil is generally considered the province of amateur growers[How to reference and link to summary or text], who make it from collected trim leaves and immature "buds" from harvests as a by-product. Honey oil is generally not sold on the street as commonly as other cannabis products[How to reference and link to summary or text], but is highly prized among connoisseurs and those who use cannabis products medicinally. Honey is most often found in rural areas where fresh marijuana is not available all year round[How to reference and link to summary or text]. A high prevalence of 'outdoor' marijuana growers will make oil to use or sell through the winter months when there is no crop. - ↑ International Narcotics Control Strategy Report, released by the Bureau for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, March 2005 - Abel, E. L. (2005). Jacques Joseph Moreau (1804-1884): American Journal of Psychiatry Vol 162(3) Mar 2005, 458. - Amit, Z., Corcoran, M. E., Charness, M. E., & Shizgal, P. (1973). Intake of diazepam and hashish by alcohol preferring rats deprived of alcohol: Physiology & Behavior Vol 10(3) Mar 1973, 523-527. - Aziz, S., & Shah, A. (1995). Home environment and peer relations of addicted and nonaddicted university students: Journal of Psychology: Interdisciplinary and Applied Vol 129(3) May 1995, 277-284. - Bahri, T., & Amir, T. (1994). Effect of hashish on vigilance performance: Perceptual and Motor Skills Vol 78(1) Feb 1994, 11-16. - Bell, J. (1985). On the Haschisch or Cannabis Indica: Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment Vol 2(4) 1985, 239-243. - Benjamin, W. (2006). On hashish. Cambridge, MA: Belknap Press/Harvard University Press. - Bollotte, G. (1973). Moreau de Tours: 1804-1884: Confrontations Psychiatriques Vol 6(11) 1973, 9-26. - Brook, U. (1993). High school pupils' attitude and experience with drugs in Holon, Israel: International Journal of the Addictions Vol 28(7) May 1993, 667-676. - Cami, J., Guerra, D., Ugena, B., Segura, J., & et al. (1991). Effect of subject expectancy on the THC intoxication and disposition from smoked hashish cigarettes: Pharmacology, Biochemistry and Behavior Vol 40(1) Sep 1991, 115-119. - Coombs, R. H., Fawzy, F. I., & Gerber, B. E. (1984). Patterns of substance use among children and youth: A longitudinal study: Substance & Alcohol Actions/Misuse Vol 5(1) 1984, 59-67. - Coombs, R. H., Fawzy, F. I., & Gerber, B. E. (1986). 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Examining a structural model of the relationships among alcohol use, marijuana/hashish use, their effects, and emotional and psychological problems over time in a cohort of high-risk youths: Deviant Behavior Vol 13(2) Apr-Jun 1992, 185-215. - Duncan, D. F. (1988). Reasons for discontinuing hashish use in a group of Central European athletes: Journal of Drug Education Vol 18(1) 1988, 49-53. - Fernberger, S. W. (1939). Review of Marihuana: America's new drug problem: Psychological Bulletin Vol 36(4) Apr 1939, 300-301. - Fletcher, J. M., & Satz, P. (1977). A methodological commentary on the Egyptian study of chronic hashish use: Bulletin on Narcotics Vol 29(2) Apr-Jun 1977, 29-34. - Foulon, L. (1979). Hashish and heroine: Considerations on interviews with drug addicts: Acta Psychiatrica Belgica Vol 79(3) May-Jun 1979, 343-354. - Frantisek David, K., L, C., & H, D. (2004). Psychosocial context of marijuana use in school children: Ceska a Slovenska Psychiatrie Vol 100(6) 2004, 348-355. - Frischknecht, H.-R., Sieber, B., & Waser, P. G. (1980). Behavioral effects of hashish in mice: II. Nursing behavior and development of the sucklings: Psychopharmacology Vol 70(2) Oct 1980, 155-161. - Frischknecht, H.-R., Siegfried, B., Schiller, M., & Waser, P. G. (1985). Hashish extract impairs retention of defeat-induced submissive behavior in mice: Psychopharmacology Vol 86(3) Jun 1985, 270-273. - Gibson, P. G. (1979). Chronic hashish use and personality profiles as measured by the California Psychological Inventory and the college student questionnaire in a population of adolescent Americans resident in the Near East: Dissertation Abstracts International. - Girdano, D. A., & Girdano, D. D. (1974). Drug usage trends among college students: College Student Journal Vol 8(3) Sep-Oct 1974, 94-96. - Graziani, G., & Gori-Savellini, S. (2003). Moreau de Tours: Hashish and psychiatry: Psichiatria e Psicoterapia Vol 22(3) Sep 2003, 234-243. - Irvin, J. E., & Mellors, A. (1975). D9-tetrahydrocannabinol: Uptake by rat liver lysosomes: Biochemical Pharmacology Vol 24(2) Jan 1975, 305-307. - Jamison, K., & McGlothlin, W. H. (1973). Drug usage, personality, attitudinal, and behavioral correlates of driving behavior: Journal of Psychology: Interdisciplinary and Applied Vol 83(1) Jan 1973, 123-130. - Jarbe, T. U., & Henriksson, B. G. (1974). Discriminative response control produced with hashish, tetrahydrocannabinols (D8-THC and D9-THC), and other drugs: Psychopharmacologia Vol 40(1) 1974, 1-16. - Jonckheere, P. (1973). Beyond hallucinogenic drugs: The case of Solange: Acta Psychiatrica Belgica Vol 73(4) Jul 1973, 497-509. - Jones, H. (1975). Science, Common Sense, and Nonsense: PsycCRITIQUES Vol 20 (3), Mar, 1975. - Korf, D. J. (1988). 20 years of use of illicit soft drugs in the Netherlands: A look back on prevalence studies: Tijdschrift voor Alcohol, Drugs en Andere Psychotrope Stoffen Vol 14(3) Jul 1988, 81-89. - Langer, J. (1977). Drug entrepreneurs and dealing culture: Social Problems Vol 24(3) Feb 1977, 377-386. - Leon-Carrion, J., & Vela-Bueno, A. (1991). Cannabis and cerebral hemispheres: A chrononeuropsychological study: International Journal of Neuroscience Vol 57(3-4) Apr 1991, 251-257. - Macdonald, D., & Mansfield, D. (2001). Drugs and Afghanistan: Drugs: Education, Prevention & Policy Vol 8(1) Feb 2001, 1-6. - Marcotte, D. B. (1972). Marijuana and mutism: American Journal of Psychiatry Vol 129(4) Oct 1972, 475-477. - Matte, A. C. (1975). Effects of hashish on isolation induced aggression in wild mice: Psychopharmacologia Vol 45(1) 1975, 125-128. - McDonough, J. H., Manning, F. J., & Elsmore, T. F. (1972). Reduction of predatory aggression rats following administration of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol: Life Sciences Vol 11(3, Pt 1) Feb 1972, 103-111. - Milner, M. (2006). Hashish and literature: Alcoologie et Addictologie Vol 28(2) Jun 2006, 99-105. - Mohammad, A. (1993). Mental symptoms among chronic (hashish) abusers: Arab Journal of Psychiatry Vol 4(2) Nov 1993, 105-112. - Mora, G. (1989). Historical antecedents of modern psychopharmacology: Psychiatric Journal of the University of Ottawa Vol 14(1) Mar 1989, 279-281. - Navarro, M., de Miguel, R., Rodriguez de Fonseca, F., Ramos, J. A., & Fernandez-Ruiz, J. J. (1996). Perinatal cannabinoid exposure modifies the sociosexual approach behavior and the mesolimbic dopaminergic activity of adult male rats: Behavioural Brain Research Vol 75(1-2) Feb 1996, 91-98. - Oliva, K., Sieber, M., Stahli, R., & Angst, J. (1986). Consumption of hashish, tobacco and alcohol, and attitudes toward youth demonstrations as correlates of status inconsistency: Kolner Zeitschrift fur Soziologie und Sozialpsychologie Vol 38(1) Mar 1986, 110-122. - Papadakis, D. P., Michael, C. M., Kephalas, T. A., & Miras, C. J. (1974). Effects of cannabis smoking in blood lactic acid and glucose in humans: Experientia Vol 30(10) 1974, 1183-1184. - Pietzeker, A. (1975). Psychotic episodes after smoking hashish: Nervenarzt Vol 46(7) Jul 1975, 378-383. - Ravenna, M., Cavazza, N., Nardelli, R., & Potente, R. (2001). Adolescent representations of ecstasy, cocaine, and hashish: Bollettino di Psicologia Applicata No 235 Sep-Dec 2001, 33-46. - Rodrigo, M. D. B., Atance, J. A. R., Garcia, M. L. L., De Antonio Perez, V., & Llera, J. L. G. (2004). Withdrawal symptoms and other effects in young hashish smokers: Adicciones Vol 16(1) 2004, 19-30. - Sarro, R. (1981). Psychedelics or psycholytics? The present problematic illuminated from the past: Revista de Psiquiatria y Psicologia Medica Vol 15(1) Jan-Mar 1981, 1-30. - Schenk, J. (1974). The neurotic personality of hashish users: Zeitschrift fur Klinische Psychologie und Psychotherapie Vol 22(4) 1974, 340-351. - Scherer, S. E. (1973). Hard and soft hallucinogenic drug users: Their drug taking patterns and objectives: International Journal of the Addictions Vol 8(5) 1973, 755-766. - Sieber, B. (1982). Influence of hashish extract on the social behaviour of encountering male baboons (Papio c. anubis): Pharmacology, Biochemistry and Behavior Vol 17(2) Aug 1982, 209-216. - Sieber, B., Frischknecht, H.-R., & Waser, P. G. (1980). Behavioral effects of hashish in mice: I. Social interactions and nest-building behavior of males: Psychopharmacology Vol 70(2) Oct 1980, 149-154. - Sieber, B., Frischknecht, H.-R., & Waser, P. G. (1980). Behavioral effects of hashish in mice: III. Social interactions between two residents and an intruder male: Psychopharmacology Vol 70(3) Oct 1980, 273-278. - Sieber, B., Frischknecht, H.-R., & Waser, P. G. (1981). Behavioral effects of hashish in mice: IV. Social dominance, food dominance, and sexual behavior within a group of males: Psychopharmacology Vol 73(2) Apr 1981, 142-146. - Siegel, R. K. (1974). Hashish Hallucinations: Discovery Rediscovered: PsycCRITIQUES Vol 19 (10), Oct, 1974. - Siegel, R. K., & Hirschman, A. E. (1984). Hashish near-death experiences: Anabiosis: The Journal of Near-Death Studies Vol 4(1) Spr 1984, 69-86. - Siegel, R. K., & Hirschman, A. E. (1985). Hashish and laughter: Historical notes and translations of early French investigations: Journal of Psychoactive Drugs Vol 17(2) Apr-Jun 1985, 87-91. - Silva, A. S., & De Deus, A. A. (2005). Behaviors of consumers of hashish and mental health of adolescents: Comparative study: Analise Psicologica Vol 23(2) Apr-Jun 2005, 151-172. - Simmen, R., von Arx, S., Staub, S., & Dittrich, A. (1981). International study on altered states of consciousness (ISASC): II. Results from the German-speaking part of Switzerland: Schweizerische Zeitschrift fur Psychologie und ihre Anwendungen/ Revue suisse de Psychologie pure et appliquee Vol 40(3) 1981, 201-218. - Sorfleet, P. (1976). Dealing hashish: Sociological notes on trafficking and use: Canadian Journal of Criminology & Corrections Vol 18(2) Apr 1976, 123-151. - Soueif, M. I. (1977). The Egyptian study of chronic cannabis use: A reply to Fletcher and Satz: Bulletin on Narcotics Vol 29(2) Apr-Jun 1977, 35-43. - Stefanis, C., & et al. (1976). Chronic hashish use and mental disorder: American Journal of Psychiatry Vol 133(2) Feb 1976, 225-227. - Tamir, A., Wolff, H., & Epstein, L. (1982). Health-related behavior in Israel adolescents: Journal of Adolescent Health Care Vol 2(4) Jun 1982, 261-265. - Tennant, F. S. (1976). Dependency traits among parents of drug abusers: Journal of Drug Education Vol 6(1) 1976, 83-88. - van Bilsen, H. (2007). Too Much of Nothing Can Make a Man Ill at Ease: PsycCRITIQUES Vol 52 (33), 2007. - Vardaris, R. M. (1979). Grass in Greece: PsycCRITIQUES Vol 24 (6), Jun, 1979. - Volavka, J., & et al. (1973). EEG, heart rate and mood change ("high") after cannabis: Psychopharmacology Vol 32(1) 1973, 11-25. - Wolf, Y., Olenick-Shemesh, D., Addad, M., Green, D., & et al. (1995). Personal and situational factors in drug use as perceived by kibbutz youth: Adolescence Vol 30(120) Win 1995, 909-930. - Yvorel, M. J.-J. (2006). A history of cannabis: Alcoologie et Addictologie Vol 28(2) Jun 2006, 107-112. - Zangen, A., Solinas, M., Ikemoto, S., Goldberg, S. R., & Wise, R. A. (2006). Two Brain Sites for Cannabinoid Reward: Journal of Neuroscience Vol 26(18) May 2006, 4901-4907. AK47 · Acapulco gold · Afghan Kush · BC Bud · Black Jack · Chocolate Thai · Columbian Red · G-13 · Green Crack · Haze · Jock Horror · Kali Mist · Kushage · Lowryder · Matanuska tundra · Neville's haze · Northern Lights · OG Kush · Panama Red · Purple Haze · Santa Maria · Silver Haze · Skunk · Sour Diesel · Toronto Hydro · White Widow AAMC · Assembly · BLCC · Buyers Club · CCRMG · DPA · FCA · GMM · LCA · LEAP · MPP · NORML · Political parties · POT · Promena · Rescheduling Coalition · ASA · SAFER · Spliff Committee · SSDP · THC Ministry · Therapeutics Alliance - A recent publication on hashish production and trafficking in the Rif area of Morocco - How to make bubble hash - How to judge hashish quality - Analysis of adulterated hashish - A Collection of Hashish Photography Further reading Edit - Hashish by Robert Connell Clarke, ISBN 0-929349-05-9 - Artificial Paradises by Charles Baudelaire; first edition 1860 - The Hasheesh Eater by Fitz Hugh Ludlow; first edition 1857 - Indoor Marijuana Horticulture, by Jorge Cervantes, ISBN 1-878823-29-9 ; 2001, reprinted 2005 |This page uses Creative Commons Licensed content from Wikipedia (view authors).|

Individual differences | Methods | Statistics | Clinical | Educational | Industrial | Professional items | World psychology | Hashish (from Arabic: حشيش ḥashīsh, lit. grass; also hash or many slang terms) is a preparation of Cannabis composed of the compressed trichomes collected from the Cannabis plant. It contains the same active ingredients as Cannabis (but in higher concentrations) and produce

Individual differences | Methods | Statistics | Clinical | Educational | Industrial | Professional items | World psychology | A monograph is a work of writing upon a single subject, usually by a single author. It is often a scholarly essay or learned treatise, and may be released in the manner of a book or journal article. It is by definition a single document that forms a complete text in itself. An author may therefore declare her or his own work to be a monograph by intent, or a reader or critic might define a given text as a monograph for the purpose of analysis. Normally the term is used for a work intended to be a complete and detailed exposition of a substantial subject at a level more advanced than that of a textbook. However, the leading textbooks in a field are usually written as a large monograph, in that they put forward original ideas, draw on original material, and are agenda setting. Some textbooks are of such a quality that their individual chapters read as monographs. Such textbooks are considered to be classics within their field. Likewise, many monographs are less than agenda-setting and some are of a weaker descriptive nature. Monographs form a component of the review of literature in science and engineering. Librarians consider a monograph to be a nonserial publication complete in one volume (book) or a finite number of volumes. Thus it differs from a serial publication such as a magazine, journal, or newspaper. Taxonomy (systematic biology) Edit In biological taxonomy a monograph is a comprehensive treatment of a taxon. Monographs typically revise all known species within a group, add any newly discovered species, and collect and synthesize available information on the ecological associations, geographic distributions, and morphological variations within the group. Example: Lent & Wygodzinsky, 1979, Revision of the Triatominae (Hemiptera, Reduviidae), and their significance as vectors of Chagas' disease. Bulletin of the American Museum of Natural History v. 163, article 3, pp. 125-520. United States Food and Drug Administration regulation Edit In the context of Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulation, monographs represent published standards by which the use of one or more substances is automatically authorized. For example, the following is an excerpt from the Federal Register: "The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is issuing a final rule in the form of a final monograph establishing conditions under which over-the-counter (OTC) sunscreen drug products are generally recognized as safe and effective and not misbranded as part of FDA's ongoing review of OTC drug products." Such usage has given rise to the use of the word monograph as a verb, as in "this substance has been monographed by the FDA". See also: pharmacopoeia. - ↑ Prytherch, Raymond John, Harrod's librarians' glossary and reference book : a directory of over 10,200 terms, organizations, projects and acronyms in the areas of information management, library science, publishing and archive management, 10th edn (Aldershot, Hants, England ; Burlington, VT: Ashgate, 2005), p. 462. - ↑ http://digitallibrary.amnh.org/dspace/handle/2246/1282 - ↑ Vines, Sydney Howard (1913). "Robert Morison 1620—1683 and John Ray 1627—1705" Oliver, Francis Wall (ed.) Makers of British Botany, Cambridge University Press. - ↑ [Federal Register: May 21, 1999 (Volume 64, Number 98)][Rules and Regulations] [Page 27666-27693]From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov][DOCID:fr21my99-6] |This page uses Creative Commons Licensed content from Wikipedia (view authors).|

Individual differences | Methods | Statistics | Clinical | Educational | Industrial | Professional items | World psychology | A monograph is a work of writing upon a single subject, usually by a single author. It is often a scholarly essay or learned treatise, and may be released in the manner of a book or journal article. It is by definition a single document that forms a complete text in itself.

During the last 2 weeks of August, scientists from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the University of Rhode Island (URI), and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada spent 10 days on the Georges Bank fishing grounds documenting the occurrence and effects on gravel habitats of the invasive colonial sea squirt Didemnum sp. For the fourth consecutive year, researchers surveyed two areas on Georges Bank where the sea squirt continues to thrive. The colonies are denser than in 2005 over the 88-mi2 area observed, but scientists found no colonies in nearby Canadian waters, indicating that they have not spread eastward. As in previous years, scientists conducted the annual survey from the NOAA ship Delaware II, out of NOAA's Northeast Fisheries Science Center in Woods Hole, Mass. On the morning of departure (August 22), Senator Barbara Mikulski (D-MD) visited the center, where she inspected the Delaware II and received a briefing on cruise objectives from scientists who showed her the sampling and camera systems to be used on the cruise. In addition, she was shown living examples of the invasive sea squirt overgrowing blue mussels collected by Dann Blackwood and Jennifer Bonin (both of USGS) from dock pilings in Woods Hole. This year's survey included video transects as much as 0.8 mi long using the USGS Seabed Observation and Sampling System (SEABOSS; see Seabed Observation and Sampling System). Preliminary evaluation of the images indicates that the gravel is 50 to 75 percent covered at some study sites, a marked increase over last year. "On Georges Bank, the area of seabed covered by the colonies has doubled at 75 percent of the sites we observed in both 2005 and 2006," said Page Valentine of the USGS Woods Hole Science Center, who tracks occurrences of the species off the Northeastern United States and elsewhere in the world. The greater density of colonies observed during the survey is evidence that the infestation is persistent and not a short-lived phenomenon. Robert Reid, a biologist with NOAA Fisheries Service and chief scientist for the survey, agreed that the sea squirt appears to be proliferating in the study area. "The fact that it is still there in high abundance over a fairly large area certainly indicates this occurrence is not ephemeral," Reid said. Scientists remain concerned that the infestation could threaten important fisheries in the region. Sea-squirt mats could prevent fish from feeding on worms and crustaceans that live in and on the gravel bottom, reduce the shelter required for these species to avoid predators, and limit the space available for settlement of larvae of sea scallops and other species. Didemnum is a nuisance to the aquaculture industry, overgrowing shellfish in New England coastal waters. Sea squirts are also called tunicates, having a primitive spinal cord and an outer sheath or "tunic," from which the name derives. Tunicates spread in several ways: by larvae that swim for only a few hours before settling; by colonies that hitchhike onto such surfaces as boat hulls, moorings, fishing gear, and other manmade objects and are carried to new, favorable habitats; and by fragments of colonies that are broken up by human activities and natural events and drift until they settle elsewhere. They expand outward by budding new, millimeter-size individuals to form circular mats, as much as 1 ft in diameter. The mats coalesce with neighboring colonies to form a tough, barren layer of intergrown colonies that attach to hard surfaces, including gravel, wood, metal, and plastic. No other species is known to eat or overgrow them. Scientists first observed the Didemnum colonies in 2003, on the U.S. side of the international maritime boundary separating U.S. and Canadian waters of Georges Bank. The bank is frequently fished by commercial vessels, particularly sea scallopers and ground fishermen. The same or similar species of Didemnum occur on the coasts of Europe, New England, California, Washington, British Columbia, and New Zealand. So far, this is the only occurrence reported in an offshore fishing ground. Jeremy Collie, a URI biologist, has been studying benthic communities in the Georges Bank area since before the sea squirts arrived, and he is monitoring the effects the tunicates are having on the benthos. "We haven't seen any dramatic changes yet, but as the percentage of the area covered by the tunicate gets higher and higher, it's going to seal off the sea floor. That's when we expect to see significant effects," he said. Dawn Sephton, a biologist from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Maritimes Region, was also part of the scientific team this year because the study included Canadian waters. Sephton currently leads a project to detect and monitor invasive tunicate species along the Bay of Fundy and Nova Scotia coastlines. "While the absence of Didemnum at the Canadian study sites is welcome news, we are concerned about its potential spread and impact on fisheries and shellfish aquaculture in the Maritimes," Sephton said. For high-resolution images and more information on Didemnum worldwide, visit Marine Nuisance Species, Didemnum, a colonial tunicate. in this issue:

During the last 2 weeks of August, scientists from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the University of Rhode Island (URI), and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada spent 10 days on the Georges Bank fishing grounds documenting the occurrence and effects on gravel habitats of the invasive colonial sea squirt Didemnum sp. For the f

To catch particles in space, the Stardust spacecraft uses a special material called aerogel. These are frequently asked questions about this material: How is aerogel made? Mixing four chemicals, which react to form a wet gel, similar to a gelatin dessert creates Aerogel. The gel is then dried in an autoclave, in essence a pressure cooker that applies pressure and heat. What is it used for? The Stardust Project is using aerogel as a capture media, where it will collect very small interstellar and cometary particles as they embed themselves in the porous aerogel. Because of its unique physical properties, aerogel has also been proposed for a wide variety of uses, including thermal insulation, acoustical insulation, optical components, catalytic supports and filters. What does it feel like? The microstructure of aerogel is extremely porous, so it feels like volcanic glass pumice or even a very fine, dry sponge, except that it is much lighter. Why is it blue? Aerogel has a blue cast for the same reason that the sky is blue. The very small particles that compose the aerogel scatter blue light, the same as our atmosphere scatters blue light. Similarly, when you look through the aerogel the light appears yellowish or reddish, like that of a sunrise or sunset. Where can I get some aerogel? Aerogel is commercially available in limited quantities from a few companies. These can be found quite easily by searching the Internet using the keyword: aerogel. JPL only produces specialized aerogel used for spaceflight. How much does aerogel cost? Aerogel is relatively expensive primarily because it is currently made in very limited quantities. While increasing the scale of aerogel production will reduce the cost, the basic process and raw materials are still somewhat costly. For relatively small quantities of aerogel the cost is about $1.00 per cubic centimeter for What makes aerogel so special? The fact that typical aerogels are between 95 and 99.5 percent porous gives them their unusual characteristics. Because of this highly porous quality they are characterized by extremely high surface area, high thermal and acoustical resistivity, low dielectric constant, and low refractive index. There are other materials that exhibit each of these properties, however, only aerogel exhibits all of these properties at the same time. Who invented aerogel? Aerogel was first made in the 1930s by Samuel S. Kistler, who obtained several patents for making a variety of aerogel, including silica, alumina, chromia, tin and carbon. Why is it called a gel? During the production of aerogel a wet gel is formed which when dried becomes filled with air. Thus the name aerogel, which means: Is it solid? Aerogel is made up of microscopic beads or strands connected to form a continuous network. Since the network fills space and supports itself, it is considered a solid. What happens if I touch Silica aerogel is semi-elastic because it returns to its original form if slightly deformed. If further deformed, a dimple will be created. However, if the elastic limit is exceeded, it will shatter catastrophically, like glass. Is aerogel such a good insulator because the air within is trapped and immobile? And, is this why it doesn't melt? Heat is transferred in three ways: convection, conduction, and radiation. Aerogel is a good thermal insulator for convective heat transfer because the air is severely limited in the distance that it can move and thus transport heat energy. The pores of a typical 20 mg/cc silica aerogel are roughly 0.00000001 meters in diameter. Aerogel is a good conductive insulator because the silica molecules are not as well "connected" as those in a metal (a good thermal conductor). Silica aerogel is a poor radiative insulator because infrared radiation (which transfers heat) passes right through silica aerogel. For this reason, carbon was added to the MER aerogel to stop infrared radiation from passing through it. This is also why one feels the heat from a flame. Air is a poor convective transporter of heat, but infrared radiation passes right through air, from the flame to your hand. Note: the index of refraction depends on the density of the aerogel. Would it be possible to create aerogel lighter than air by using helium instead of air? Aerogel cannot be made less dense than air by filling it with helium. You might be able to make it less dense than the surrounding atmosphere by filling the aerogel with helium and then placing it in an atmosphere of radon or possibly xenon. |Last updated September 29, 2005

To catch particles in space, the Stardust spacecraft uses a special material called aerogel. These are frequently asked questions about this material: How is aerogel made? Mixing four chemicals, which react to form a wet gel, similar to a gelatin dessert creates Aerogel. The gel is then dried in an autoclave, in essence a pressure cooker that applies pressure and heat. What is it used for? The Sta

|Click a category above for effects of ash and how to reduce its impacts||Search| The Eruption of Mount St. Helens The Mountain Explodes Ash Falls on Yakima The Clean-up Process Ash Fall Impact on Wastewater Treatment Plant Volcanic Ash Aftermath The Financial Impact of the Disaster Thank you very much for inviting me to Auckland. It is a privilege and honor to be here as a United States citizen and a representative of the City of Yakima. I last visited New Zealand and the City of New Plymouth in March 1999, and am grateful for the opportunity to be here again in this beautiful country. Last year I met Dr David Johnston of the Wairakei Research Center for the Institute of Geological and Nuclear Sciences. He was visiting Yakima during the 20th Anniversary of the eruption of Mount St. Helens and ash fall on our community. He invited me to attend this conference and share my experience of the eruption's impact on Yakima, since I was also City Manager at that time. Yakima was incorporated in 1886. The City is located in the center of the State of Washington, approximately 200 kilometers southeast of Seattle, and approximately 110 kilometers east of Mount St. Helens. Our City population today is 70,000. The Yakima Valley has an international reputation as a leading agricultural center. We are known as "The Fruit Bowl of the Nation" with major production of fruits such as apples, cherries, pears and wine grapes, as well as many dairy products. The total agricultural production of the Yakima basin is nearly $2 billion annually. The City has a Council/Manager form of government. The City Council includes seven members. I have served the City of Yakima for 27 years, and was appointed City Manager in January of 1979. We are a full-service city with 650 full-time employees and major City departments, including: Police, Fire, Public Works and Utilities, Community/Economic Development, Finance, and City Administration. Yakima's 2001 total budget is approximately $108 million. Mount St. Helens is in the center of the Cascade Mountain Range between the States of Oregon and Washington. Prior to its eruption in 1980, Mount St. Helenss was dormant and a picture of snow-capped beauty. However, geologists believe that Mount St. Helens probably has had catastrophic eruptions like that of Mt Vesuvius in 79 AD. There are traces of ash fall from previous eruptions that have been found from testing in Eastern Montana and southern Alberta, Canada, as well as the ash deposits that helped form the rich soil of Eastern Washington. The volcano's last documented eruption occurred in 1856. In 1978 the U.S. Geological Survey published a report describing in detail the potential impacts from future eruptions and ash fall of the Mount St. Helens volcano. The report predicted that an eruption was likely to occur before the end of the century, and that prevailing winds would likely spread ash inland to areas east of the volcano. Mount St. Helens volcano reawakened on March 20, 1980, when a seismograph at the University of Washington in Seattle recorded a minor earthquake centered 32 kilometres north of the mountain. On March 27, one week after the first earthquake, the volcano spouted a plume of ash and steam four miles into the air. By late afternoon, the mountain's snow-capped summit had a blemish; a soot-black crater estimated to be 76 meters wide and 18 meters deep. Over the next several weeks a great deal of interest became focused on Mount St. Helens' volcanic activity and its venting of ash and steam. The U.S. Geological Survey moved in a team of scientists to set up a base for monitoring and evaluating the volcano's re-emergence. The initial public response was one of fascination and sightseeing as the area surrounding the mountain became congested with planes and vehicles carrying scientists, news media journalists, and tourists. Throughout April and early May, ash and steam eruptions continued on the mountain, and an ominous bulge formed about 2,400 meters up the north face of the mountain. The area had expanded about 92 meters and was continuing to grow. Experts speculated it was caused by the pressure of molten rock moving up within the volcano, but a major eruption did not seem probable. In Eastern Washington, our citizens were interested in the volcano's re-emergence, but mostly we were oblivious to any threats from the mountain. On May 18, 1980, our lives would change forever. On Sunday, May 18, 1980, at 8.32 a.m., a strong earthquake of 5.1 on the Richter Scale was registered at Mount St. Helens. The northern face of the mountain began to collapse; jarred loose by the earthquakes, it slipped down the mountain's sides. A plume of steam shot from the summit and the north side of the mountain, and within seconds the cloud turned black, pouring into the sky. The rock and ice build-up in the mountain that had been holding back pressure from the pent-up gasses and magna in the core of the mountain exploded. Hot gas and ash, and huge chunks of rock and ice, catapulted from the weakened north face of the volcano. The black plume, laced with pink and purple sheets of lightening, shot 18 kilometers into the air in a pyrotechnic display that lasted the entire day. The blast was 500 times greater than the 20-kiloton atomic bomb that fell on Hiroshima, and it washed over the foothills and valleys beneath the mountain. In moments, it covered 388 square kilometres, levelling all that stood in its way. More than a cubic mile of material - over a metric ton of debris for every person on earth - was expelled from the mountain and pulverised into the stratosphere. Huge mudflows and timber travelled down the mountain to the Toutle, Cowlitz and Columbia Rivers below, causing catastrophic flooding and damage to property and destroying over 300 homes. Millions of 200 year-old fir trees were flattened and strewn like match sticks with their bark scarred and branches stripped. Carried by the eastern prevailing winds, Mount St. Helens ash and smoke billowed to the northeast, across the skies, towards a half a million people in Washington, Idaho, and Montana. The impact of the blast was enormous. It literally tore the top of the 2,959-meter peak apart. Its blackened crater was now 1.4 kilometers wide and 2.5 kilometers long, and the mountain was nearly 900 meters lower than it had been seconds before the eruption. In the wake of Mount St. Helens an estimated 70 people perished, although the exact number of victims buried under mud and ash may never be known for certain. Yakima had no forewarning about the eruption. I was at home on Sunday, May 18th, when the sky turned dark by mid - morning, and I expected a major thunderstorm. It was only when the ash began to fall that I realized the volcano had erupted, and that we could be facing a serious emergency. By noon, the City was engulfed in darkness and communications by home telephone were impossible. It was like an eclipse of the sun that lingered-a blinding blizzard and a thundering electrical storm all in one. Street lights came on automatically, traffic stopped, and a strange quiet fell on our community; everywhere a talcum-like, sandy, gray powder kept accumulating. Cars, trucks, buses, and trains all stoped, and planes were re-routed away from the ash cloud. From noon until 6.00 a.m. the following morning, the City was in total darkness. The ash fall on the City was gritty and light and difficult to sweep or shovel, especially when dry. Shifting winds blew the dust everywhere, severely impairing visibility and driving in our area. It was exceedingly harmful and abrasive to mechanical and electrical equipment, especially the motors of vehicles, aircraft and electronic systems. The ash fallout was especially crippling - Yakima received nearly 3 inches of this material in the first 24 hours following the explosion. We estimated that several million tons of ash was deposited on the entire region. Initially, most citizens were caught unaware and were confused about what effects or risks the ash fall could present to themselves and their property. It appeared serene and many thought it would be washed away with the next rainstorm. I left for my office at about 12:30 p.m. on May 18th to be in close communication with the emergency services of the City and begin the process of co-ordinating and directing our emergency response effort. While the City did have an Emergency Operations Plan, there was no past experience in dealing with a volcanic eruption and ash fall. The first 48 hours were a critical time for the City, during which we organized ourselves into a command post at City Hall and worked to prepare a strategy and plan for responding to the emergency. The command center included the Mayor; City Manager; County Health Officer; County Emergency services Director; Police and Fire Chiefs and community leaders. Our most immediate actions included the following: We immediately recognized that our local government resources were completely inadequate to address the clean-up requirements facing the City. I contacted the City of Seattle, King Country government in Seattle, the City of Portland, and Multnomah County government in Oregon to request the special equipment and manpower needed for ash removal from our community. The major equipment acquired included the following: Help from these agencies arrived in two days and the equipment was stationed at the City's Public Works maintenance yard. The amount of equipment and manpower engaged to assist the City of Yakima for the ash fall clean up was 10 times greater than our normal maintenance effort. In planning for the emergency clean-up campaign, the City was divided into a grid pattern, starting from the Central Business District and extending to outlying suburban and residential areas. Assignments were made for manpower work crews and equipment for each location, and a daily schedule for the operation was published in the newspaper. The second major part of the response was the coordination of a massive overall city neighbourhood clean-up with our community, citizens and business. Churches and other organisations also recruited volunteers to assist in the clean-up of private properties of the elderly or handicapped. The plan for removal of the ash included the Central Business District, hospitals, fire stations, the Airport, streets/alleys, school areas, roof tops, hills, parking lots, and other residential locations. Eventually, the entire city was cleaned on a block-by-block basis, through the cooperation and coordination of neighbourhoods, residents and volunteers working with City crews and equipment. The City learned by trial and error the best way to pick up and dispose of the ash on our community. The procedure involved the following: The City removed over 544,000 metric tons of ash from our community, which were deposited in community landfill sites! The airport alone removed over 15,000 metric tons of ash. The in-field horse track at the Yakima Fairgrounds was covered with over 136,000 metric tons of ash. Also at a City park, ash was dumped to a depth of 3 meters, with over 317,000 metric tons of ash. An irrigation system was installed, and rye grass was planted which grew quickly in the ash. Eventually, a new City park and soccer field complex was created from an area that had previously been a low wasteland. Ash was also used as fill material in a number of other privately-owned locations throughout the Country. Clean-up of the entire City took only 7 days of 24-hour clean-up activities involving the crews from the City and other governmental agencies, private contractors, and volunteers. In the early hours of the emergency response, one of the areas of key concern was the ash fall on the Wastewater Treatment Plant. The day after the eruption, major equipment was beginning to suffer from effects of the ash. Sever vibrations were occurring in the grit classifiers; raw sludge lines were becoming plugged; and pumping difficulties were being experienced. As grit and ash passed through the system, the inability to pump raw sludge threatened secondary treatment processes. The ash was becoming toxic to the biological media in the plant; pre-treatment systems were failing and lagoon basins were becoming inundated with ash. Faced with these extreme conditions, and to prevent losses in the tens of millions of dollars, City officials shut down the plant three days after the eruption. Raw sewage was discharged into the Yakima River, immediately east of the Wastewater Plant. At this time of the year in our community, there is high run-off in the Yakima River from the snow melt in the mountains, thereby substantially diluting the contaminating effects of the raw wastewater into the river. Operating on a 24-hour schedule, City crews worked continuously to clean, inspect, flush and re-lubricate all of the equipment at the Plant and ash was also removed from the lagoon basins. After four days wastewater flows were re-directed back into the Plant on a phased primary treatment basis. Over the next three weeks, plant systems were gradually restored to enable the Plant to resume its normal operations. Our experience with this situation changed our plans for future design of Wastewater Treatment Plant facilities, including the necessity to house all equipment under cover; specify dust-free motors, seals and air filters; cover the biofilters; and plan for a future cover on all clarifiers. Mount St. Helens ash fall reached across the United States within 5 days following the eruption. Other communities east of Yakima in Washington, Idaho and Montana experienced similar problems as Yakima, but in gradually diminishing quantities the further east the ash cloud penetrated. Yakima was fortunate that no loss of life was experienced, and that the ash content was not toxic to human or animal health. Nevertheless, the eruption of Mount St. Helens did have a catastrophic impact on the surrounding landscape. It created a powerful, dramatic and dynamic change in the physical geography and natural environment of the region which continues to the present day. In just a few moments, the mountain and region was transformed beyond anyone's imagination, and left an enduring image of devastation and desolation. Yet 20 years after the eruption of Mount St. Helens, the area, overall, has also begun to renew itself with new vegetation, plants and flowers growing from the new layer of volcanic soil. While the City's first priority was to respond to the emergency, we were also worried about the cost impact to our community. The City prepared an extensive record and documentation of costs and expenditures on the clean-up and damages to help obtain federal and state reimbursement of disaster costs. The total financial impact on the City from the emergency was $5.4 million for the City's clean-up and damage to the City's Wastewater Treatment Plant. Approximately 74% of this total was eventually paid by federal and state assistance and private insurance carriers. The City's cost was $1.4 million, or approximately 26%. The City financed this expense through general obligations bonds. It took many years to repay the entire indebtedness and recover the Federal reimbursement for our expenses incurred from the disaster. In the first few weeks following the eruption, there were early news reports that the economic losses to our area, especially agriculture, could be hundreds of millions of dollars. The actual economic losses to our region were approximately $12 million. However, the final calculation of total economic cost of the eruption of Mount St. Helens on both public and private activities state-wide was approximately $1.5 billion. In the weeks following our recovery clean-up from the St Helens ash fall on Yakima, the concerns about severe economic damages and losses to our area reported in the national news media prompted an aggressive campaign to advertise and report that our area had not been devastated. This effort was successful in boosting sales of our apple harvest and other agricultural commodities. Ultimately, Yakima did produce an excellent crop for domestic and international markets that year. Prior to the Mount St. Helens disaster, emergency planning and preparedness assumed a very low profile among the large number of other local government problems requiring daily attention. However, the Mount St. Helens eruption and ash fall on the City has dramatically changed emergency preparedness for the future. Our experience with the Mount St. Helens eruption and disaster illustrates that a City, in an emergency situation, must initially plan to be on its own and utilize all available local resources. However, it is also important to make plans for obtaining assistance from others, if possible, in the event that your own resources are inadequate to handle a disaster condition. The best approach is to have plans in place before an emergency ever occurs. Daily information announcements and reports to the public on the status of emergency conditions and response efforts are essential, and should be closely coordinated and presented by City leaders, in cooperation with all sectors of the media. Managing and coordinating the response to a major emergency is highly demanding and stressful on everyone, especially the person in charge. It is important to remember that an Emergency Manager is not indispensable, but is part of the team assembled to meet the challenge at hand. You must be willing to delegate quickly and trust others - you can't do it alone. Critical decisions are more successful if jointly planned and supported by the team working together. The 10 days following the eruption and ash fall on Yakima were traumatic and hectic, but rewarding. It was traumatic to see our valley turned into a gray, swirling dust bowl; hectic to try and find answers and solutions to the unknown, but at the same time, rewarding in unifying the community to meet an incredible challenge. We are extremely proud of our City's response to this emergency. It was an outstanding demonstration of community spirit, dedication, teamwork and commitment to restore us to a healthy, clean and safe environment. Today the Yakima Valley and the entire State of Washington remains a highly attractive area for new residents and economic opportunity. In the 20 years since the eruption, there has been a renewal in the physical growth and natural environment surrounding the volcano. In Yakima, we also have seen a significant expansion of agricultural production, and economic development and investment. We are optimistic about out future, but at the same time must respect the forces of nature, and be prepared for future potential eruptions from Mount St. Helens or other volcanoes. I have had a very rewarding and challenging career in City management. Nevertheless, the eruption of Mount St. Helens was a milestone event and experience for me, personally and professionally, which I will never forget. I will be forever grateful for the opportunity to serve the City and help bring our community together to respond so positively and successfully to this emergency. Thank you for the opportunity to share my experience with you today. ||| Accessibility || FOIA || Privacy || Policies and Notices ||| Page Contact Information: [email protected] Page Last Modified: Tuesday, 3 February 2009

|Click a category above for effects of ash and how to reduce its impacts||Search| The Eruption of Mount St. Helens The Mountain Explodes Ash Falls on Yakima The Clean-up Process Ash Fall Impact on Wastewater Treatment Plant Volcanic Ash Aftermath The Financial Impact of the Disaster Thank you very much for inviting me to Auckland. It is a privilege and honor to be here as a United States citizen a

USGS/Cascades Volcano Observatory, Vancouver, Washington Golden Trout Creek Volcanic Field, California Golden Trout Creek Volcanic Field From: Smithsonian Institution's Global Volcanism Program's Website, October 2000 Golden Trout Creek Latitude: 36.358 N Longitude: 118.32 W Elevation: 2,886 meters Potential Hazards from Future Volcanic Eruptions in California: U.S.Geological Survey Bulletin 1847, p.6. Golden Trout Creek Volcanic Field: cinder cone and lava flow around 10,000 to 5,000 years ago. U. S. Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Region (Region 5), Website, October 2000 This subsection is a high plateau west of the main crest of the Sierra Nevada. It is between the Kern Canyon Fault and the eastern slope of the Sierra Nevada from near Golden Trout Creek south to South Fork Valley. The higher part of the Scodie Mountains is included in this subsection. It has a temperate to cold and semi-arid to subhumid climate. Mesozoic granitic rocks predominate in this subsection. Also, pre-batholith metamorphic rocks are moderately extensive. Monache and Templeton Mountains are small Tertiary andesitic cones. There are small Pleistocene basalt flows along Golden Trout Creek and the South Fork of the Kern River and two cinder cones associated with them. Quaternary alluvium is common in small areas along streams, but Pleistocene glacial till is sparse. This subsection is characterized by gentle to moderately steep slopes on a rolling plateau and steep to very steep slopes in the canyon of the Kern River and on edges of the plateau. The Kern River runs from north to south in nearly a straight line along the Kern Canyon Fault. The plateau is not deeply incised, except near the edge of it and along the Kern River. The subsection elevation ranges from about 3,000 or 4,000 feet up to 11,371 feet. Fluvial erosion and deposition are the main geomorphic processes. [Golden Trout Creek Volcanic Field Menu] ... URL for CVO HomePage is: URL for this page is: If you have questions or comments please contact: 11/10/99 Lyn Topinka

USGS/Cascades Volcano Observatory, Vancouver, Washington Golden Trout Creek Volcanic Field, California Golden Trout Creek Volcanic Field From: Smithsonian Institution's Global Volcanism Program's Website, October 2000 Golden Trout Creek Latitude: 36.358 N Longitude: 118.32 W Elevation: 2,886 meters Potential Hazards from Future Volcanic Eruptions in California: U.S.Geological Survey Bulletin 1847,

This Statistical First Release (SFR) provides provisional information on the achievements of eligible pupils (typically 11 year olds) in the 2008 National Curriculum assessments at Key Stage 2 (KS2). The figures in this SFR are produced from data provided to the Department by the National Assessment Agency (NAA) and released to schools on 15 July 2008. The information in this SFR is provisional subject to: the outcome of the appeals process whereby schools can request a review for one or more of their pupils on the grounds that the mark scheme has not been correctly applied; any changes made by schools during the Achievement and Attainment Tables checking exercise in the Autumn term; the outcome of the Sutherland Inquiry which is looking into the problems with delivery of this year's National Curriculum tests; and further advice from the Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator (Ofqual). At the time of publication, information from Ofqual indicates that the underlying data are of sufficient quality to support this publication. The key points from the Key Stage 2 test results for 2008 are that the percentages of pupils achieving Level 4 or above in the 2008 Key Stage 2 tests by subject are as follows: Adam Hatton - Attainment Statistics Team txt, 1 Kb PDF, 476 Kb Excel, 99 Kb Excel, 205 Kb Excel, 1 Mb

This Statistical First Release (SFR) provides provisional information on the achievements of eligible pupils (typically 11 year olds) in the 2008 National Curriculum assessments at Key Stage 2 (KS2). The figures in this SFR are produced from data provided to the Department by the National Assessment Agency (NAA) and released to schools on 15 July 2008. The information in this SFR is provisional su

Hunt 3502: CWMU Bull elk DescriptionThe Bastian Ranch Cooperative Wildlife Management Unit (CWMU) is west and north of Causey Reservoir. Beaver Creek and State Highway 39 forms the west boundary and Elk Ridge forms the east boundary. The Unit consists of a main ridge which is about 8000 feet in the north dropping to 6700 feet in the south before it drops into Water Hollow. From this main ridge the Unit drops into Beaver Creek (5600 feet to 6600 feet). On the eastside the unit drops in to Dry Bread Hollow (6000 feet to 7200 feet) before rising up to Elk Ridge (7600 feet to 7900 feet). The most common elevation is 6800 feet but ranges from 5500 feet to 7900 feet with an elevation difference of 2400 feet. Fifty-four percent (54%) of the CWMU elevation ranges between 6000 feet and 7300 feet an elevation difference of 1300 feet. There are three (3) main land cover types and one (1) land cover type that dominates the Bastian Ranch Cooperative Wildlife Management Unit (CWMU). First, there is the Rocky Mountain Aspen Forest and Woodland (22). Then there are the Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (62) and Rocky Mountain Gamble Oak-Mixed Montane Shrubland (41) in about equal amounts. In lesser amounts is Rocky Mountain Bigtooth Maple Ravine Woodland(23). One of the Bastian Ranch Cooperative Wildlife Mangement Unit (CWMU) nearest weather stations, HUNTSVILLE MONESTERY (424135), is about 11.0 km southwest from the southwest edge of the CWMU. HUNTSVILLE MONESTERY has thirty-one (31) years of records, 1976 - 2007. During the FALL (September, October and November) the average precipitation is 5.74 inches, but it can be as high as 12.30 inches or as low as 1.36 inches. During the 91-day FALL period, 22 days will experience greater than or equal to 0.01 inch of precipitation, 14 days of greater than or equal to 0.10 inch, or 3 days of the greater than or equal to 0.50 inch of precipitation. There can also be 1 day of greater than or equal to 1.00 inch precipitation. Total FALL snowfall averages 10.2 inches but can be as high as 31.0 inches. FALL temperature at HUNTSVILLE MONESTERY averages 46.0 degrees F. but can be as high as 95.0 degrees F. or as low as -16.0 degrees F. During the FALL, 56 days will be below freezing (32 degrees F.) and less than 1 day above 90 degrees F. This map is provided for general reference only and does not constitute a legal hunt boundary. The Division does not guarantee access to any private or public land. Hunt unit boundaries may include private property or other excluded areas.

Hunt 3502: CWMU Bull elk DescriptionThe Bastian Ranch Cooperative Wildlife Management Unit (CWMU) is west and north of Causey Reservoir. Beaver Creek and State Highway 39 forms the west boundary and Elk Ridge forms the east boundary. The Unit consists of a main ridge which is about 8000 feet in the north dropping to 6700 feet in the south before it drops into Water Hollow. From this main ridge the

FY 2005 Performance Budget Justification Appendix C: Program Evaluations of ARC Investments I. Appalachian Development Highways Economic Impact Studies by Wilbur Smith Associates, July 1998. This study evaluated both the transportation efficiency benefits and economic development impacts of the completed portions of the Appalachian Development Highway System (ADHS). The study focused on 12 of the 26 ADHS highway corridors that were largely completed, totaling 1,400 miles of the system. A primary objective of the study was to measure, in retrospect, the extent to which the completed portions of the ADHS have contributed to the economic well-being of Appalachia. Two major effects are estimated using transportation data and a state-of-the-art, regional economic model: (1) travel efficiency benefits due to reduced travel time, lower vehicle operating costs, and the reduced number of accidents; and (2) economic development impacts on the Region due to the enhanced competitive position of industry in the Region, increased roadside business, and increased tourism. The economic model used for the study was developed by Regional Economic Models Inc., REMI, of Amherst, Massachusetts, which estimated the employment, wages, value-added and population increases attributable to the ADHS in the 165-county study region. The following impact estimates are only for the completed portions of the system and do not include benefits from completing the system. In fiscal year 1999, the Appalachian Regional Commission issued its first evaluation report on nonhighway ARC projects, Evaluation of the Appalachian Regional Commission's Infrastructure and Public Works Program, by the Brandow Company and Economic Development Research Group. Ninety-nine projects were examined in this study and all were initiated and completed between 1990 and 1997. Total ARC funding for these projects was $32.4 million. These infrastructure projects are representative of the range of different types of projects typically funded by the Commission, including industrial parks and sites, water and sewer systems, access roads, and business incubators. The universe of these types of projects (both open and closed) during this period was 1,376, with 663 projects closed. Thus the sample represents fifteen percent of closed projects. Job Creation. The estimated total number of jobs created by the ARC-funded sample projects was 44,331. This includes direct new jobs and indirect/induced new jobs. It does not include the retained jobs. Overall, the economic development projects examined cost $2,412 per new job created, including indirect and induced job creation. If retained jobs are also counted, then the average cost drops to $1,761 per job. The benefit cost ratio of income generated by these jobs was 5.4 to 1 when counting only income resulting directly from job creation, but increased to 8.9 to 1 when indirect job creation was included. Personal Income. The new jobs led to increased personal income for residents of the affected counties. For a one-time public investment in these economic development projects, there was approximately $9 of annual recurring personal income per public dollar invested. Projections and Results. All project types performed well: Non-residential water and sewer projects: The number of new jobs created was about 62 percent over projections, and the number of new businesses served was almost four times the projected total. Industrial parks: Projections for new businesses and existing households served were exceeded; projections for existing businesses were met, while the percentage of actual jobs retained was slightly lower than projected (91 percent). Incubator projects: Actual results for new businesses ran more than three times the projections. The number of retained businesses served was double the projection. The number of new jobs created was almost five times the projections, and the number of retained jobs was 50 percent above projections. Industrial access road projects: The number of new businesses served was greater than four times the projections, while the percentage of retained businesses served was below projections (77 percent). However, the numbers of new and especially retained jobs assisted by the projects came in above projections. Recommendations: Key recommendations in the study were that: In fiscal year 2001, ARC issued a report, Evaluation of the Appalachian Regional Commission's Educational Projects, by the Westat Corporation, that assessed the implementation and impact of 84 education projects funded by the Appalachian Regional Commission during the 1990s. The study examined the type of activities that projects used to enhance learning opportunities, the extent to which these activities were implemented, the accomplishments associated with these activities, and whether the projects were able to sustain themselves beyond the ARC grant period. Of particular interest was the extent to which projects achieved the outcomes set forth in their original proposals to ARC. In addition, site visits were conducted at eight projects that had successfully provided community residents with a new or enhanced educational service. Types of Performance Measured: This study, issued in March 2001, provided an early evaluation of the Appalachian Regional Commission's entrepreneurship program. The report evaluated 24 entrepreneurship projects that were complete or nearly completed during the 1997-2000 period. The sample was generally representative of the project mix and participation rates by state as drawn from the 48 projects that were complete or nearly complete. Total ARC funding for these 24 projects was $2,124,700 which leveraged another $1,412,000 in funding from other sources. When the evaluation began there had been 133 projects funded. Through November 2000, the total universe of projects was 169, representing a total ARC investment of $17.6 million, which leveraged $13.9 million from other sources. The study found that three-quarters of the projects had assisted firms to develop new products or upgrade new technologies. In addition, half of the projects reported starting new businesses which led to the creation of 304 new firms—46 new firms with employees and 258 firms that were sole proprietors. There were 377 new jobs created according to the survey, with 69 jobs in new firms, 50 in existing firms, and 258 through self-employment. Furthermore, there were 74 jobs reported to be saved by project interventions. Of client businesses or entrepreneurs served by the project, 70 percent reported being highly satisfied by the services they received, 17 percent were satisfied, 8 percent were dissatisfied, and the balance did not respond. Thirty-six percent of the businesses reported that their business strategies were oriented to expand or grow the business and its market share, while 55 percent viewed their business as stable "lifestyle businesses," and the balance saw their businesses as a response to local economic decline. The study recommended that the program increase the amount of technical assistance provided to grantees, support the development of more internal evaluation and self-monitoring systems within the projects and businesses served, make fewer small grants, recognize the risk inherent in the program and seek to replicate the successful projects. Finally, the report recommends that a broader regional economic impact from the program will require greater scale and more focus on growth-oriented businesses. V. Evaluation of ARC's Vocational Education and Workforce Training Projects In fiscal year 2002, the Appalachian Regional Commission issued its report Evaluation of the Appalachian Regional Commission's Vocational Education and Workforce Training Projects by the Westat Corporation. The study examined 92 representative projects started and completed during the 1995-2000 period. The sample constituted about one-third of the universe during period, after adjusting for continuation projects. A mail survey collected data on implementation, monitoring and impact. In addition, five case study site visits were conducted. A two-tier sample of projects was developed to assess the impact before and after full implementation of ARC's performance measurement system: Cohort 1 selected 67 projects from the 1995-1999 period; and Cohort 2 selected 25 projects funded in 2000. Types of Performance Measured Assessment of ARC's Performance Measurement VI. External Evaluation of ARC's Telecommunications Projects ARC issued its report a Program Evaluation of the Appalachian Regional Commission's Telecommunications Projects by the Westat Corporation. This program evaluation examined 70 projects that were started and completed between 1995 and 2001, including project investments in various types of information technology-based training, e-learning and distance learning, e-commerce, telemedicine, network and infrastructure projects, and community access center projects. Project Accomplishments and Impacts: Most projects reported fulfilling their goals to the same or greater extent as projected. For example: Performance Measurement: The report examined 16 projects to evaluate how the projects anticipated results were ultimately measured at the end of the project. While this sample does not reflect the overall outcome reports for all 70 projects, it did provide a more detailed picture of how ARC's performance measurement system was implemented for telecommunications projects in the late 1990s. An analysis of the 16 final reports revealed that two-thirds of the projects expected outputs and outcomes were addressed in the final reports, but 20 percent of project outputs and 55 percent of project outcomes failed to provide adequate information or data supporting their claims that these results had been met. VII. Health Studies on Health Disparities in Appalachia and the Financial Conditions of the Health Care Institutions in Appalachia. A. An Analysis of the Financial Conditions of Health Care Institution in the Appalachia and their Local Economic Impacts by the Center for Health Affairs of Project Hope was published the ARC in January, 2003. This report describes the availability of health care services in Appalachia, the financial stability of Appalachian health care institutions, and the effect of hospital closures on Appalachian counties. The analysis of Appalachian hospitals based on American Hospital Association (AHA) data revealed weakness in access to certain services that fall outside the core functions of primary-care physicians, rural hospitals, and skilled nursing care facilities. Most Appalachian counties have not been successful at improving access to dentistry, outpatient alcohol treatment, outpatient drug treatment, and outpatient mental health services. B. Health Disparities in Appalachia The Commission issued a contract in FY 2001 to the Office of Social Environment and Health Research at West Virginia University to analyze of the health status and disparities in Appalachia so that policy makers and regional public health practitioners can identify their health-related priorities for health surveillance and research, health education, and investments to improve the delivery of health care, and health outcomes. A draft report has just been submitted for 3 of the 4 chapters. The research covers the following topics: VIII. An Evaluation of ARC's Civic Capacity and Leadership Projects. A forthcoming evaluation report examines ARC's leadership and civic capacity-building projects including adult and youth leadership programs, civic leadership, development of community-capacity projects and organizations, community revitalization, education projects, and technical assistance. From a functional perspective these projects are more usefully classified in terms of the nature of the interventions they support including: conveners that provide technical assistance; community initiative projects; leadership training; strategic planning, and the provision of a variety of community "tools." Each of these functional investments is targeted to meet the leadership or capacity-building needs of groups of individuals, organizations, and/or the community at large. Since 1995 nearly $12.5 million has been invested in 168 projects, excluding continuations. ARC expects a draft final report by April of 2004.

FY 2005 Performance Budget Justification Appendix C: Program Evaluations of ARC Investments I. Appalachian Development Highways Economic Impact Studies by Wilbur Smith Associates, July 1998. This study evaluated both the transportation efficiency benefits and economic development impacts of the completed portions of the Appalachian Development Highway System (ADHS). The study focused on 12 of the

Tuesday 18 June Common fan-footed gecko (Ptyodactylus hasselquistii) Common fan-footed gecko fact file - Find out more - Print factsheet Common fan-footed gecko description With distinctive flared toe tips, fan-footed geckos of the genus Pytodactylus are instantly recognisable (3). There is varied opinion about whether the common fan-footed gecko comprises a single species divided into multiple subspecies, or whether these subspecies should in fact be classed as distinct species (3) (4). Although there appear to be some differences in colouration and body shape between the different forms, they all possess the same basic features (4). The legs are long, and end in widely splayed toes, tipped on either side by a wide, fan-like fringe (5). The body colouration is pallid, helping to provide camouflage amongst the subtle tones of its rocky habitat (6). Markings can vary between the sexes and between the subspecies, with orange cross bands as well as reddish, black and pale spots all potentially exhibited (3) (6). A relatively vocal species, male common fan-footed geckos can be heard calling with a series of chirrups at night over a distance of up to 50 metres (5) (7). - Length: up to 18 cm (2) Common fan-footed gecko biology Like many gecko species, the common fan-footed gecko is an exceptional climber, able to run across vertical rock faces and even overhangs and cave roofs (5). The secret of this remarkable ability lies in its specialised toe scales, known as scansors, which bear thousands of microscopic, hooked hair-like projections that enable the toes to grip even the most slippery surfaces (2) (5). The common fan-footed gecko is a nocturnal species, emerging after dusk from daytime refuges such as caves and crevices to feed on insects and arachnids (2) (4). During the day, it usually returns to these habitats, although during cooler seasons, and in colder parts of it range, it may be encountered basking in the sun to raise its body temperature (3). In contrast, however, some individuals in larger caves may never emerge into the open (2). The common fan-footed gecko is generally sociable and often encountered in small groups, except when attempting to attract a mate, at which time the male becomes very territorial (4) (5). After mating, a clutch of two eggs is usually laid, which are stuck to the rocks in communal cave laying sites (5).Top Common fan-footed gecko range A widespread species, the common fan-footed gecko’s range extends throughout North Africa, the Arabian Peninsula and the Middle East. Populations occur from Morocco east to Egypt, the United Arab Emirates and Oman, north as far as Iran, and south as far as eastern Ethiopia and northern Somalia (8).Top Common fan-footed gecko habitat The common fan-footed gecko is a common inhabitant of the arid, rocky environments that are characteristic of its range. It occurs on boulders, rock faces and in caves located amongst river valleys, hills and mountains up to elevations of 2,000 metres. This species is also sometimes found in buildings (4) (5)Top Common fan-footed gecko status This species has yet to be classified by the IUCN.Top Common fan-footed gecko threatsTop Common fan-footed gecko conservationTop Find out more To learn more about reptile conservation visit: International Reptile Conservation Foundation: This information is awaiting authentication by a species expert, and will be updated as soon as possible. If you are able to help please contact: - A population usually restricted to a geographical area that differs from other populations of the same species, but not to the extent of being classified as a separate species. - An animal, a pair of animals or a colony that occupies and defends an area. IUCN Red List (January, 2009) - Vine, P. and Al-Abed, I. (1997) Natural Emirates: Wildlife and Environment of the United Arab Emirates. Trident Press Ltd, London. - Werner, Y.L. (1987) Gekkonid lizards from Five Quarters meet in Israel. The Bulletin of the Philadelphia Herpetological Society, 31: 20 - 23. Batraciens et Reptiles du Monde (July, 2009) - Hellyer, P. and Aspinall, S. (2005) The Emirates: A Natural History. Trident Press Limited, United Arab Emirates. - Bartlett, R.D. (1995) Geckos. Barron's Educational Series, Hauppauge, New York. - Frankenberg, E. (1974) Vocalization of males of three geographical forms of Ptyodactylus from Israel. Journal of Herpetology, 8: 59 - 70. J. Craig Venter Institute (July, 2009) World Database on Protected Areas (July, 2009) More »Related species Play the Team WILD game Terms and Conditions of Use of Materials Visitors to this website (End Users) are entitled to: - view the contents of, and Material on, the website; Additional use of flagged material Green flagged material Creative commons material Any other use

Tuesday 18 June Common fan-footed gecko (Ptyodactylus hasselquistii) Common fan-footed gecko fact file - Find out more - Print factsheet Common fan-footed gecko description With distinctive flared toe tips, fan-footed geckos of the genus Pytodactylus are instantly recognisable (3). There is varied opinion about whether the common fan-footed gecko comprises a single species divided into multiple su

Inside CVA - How It Works The product makes use of real-time METAR observations to establish C&V (Ceiling & Visibility) conditions at approximately 2000 observing points. At display points between METAR locations (where there are no direct observations), CVA ceiling values are derived as follows: First, nearest-neighbor interpolation is used to find an initial estimate of ceiling height. This initial estimate is the ceiling height at the nearest METAR location. Next, the initial height is corrected for any change in surface elevation between the METAR location and the CVA display point. For example, if terrain at the display point is 200' higher than at the METAR site, the ceiling value (given as feet above ground level) is taken as 200' less than the value at the nearest METAR location. If the resulting ceiling height is negative, a value of zero is substituted. Finally, a clear-cloudy test using GOES (Geostationary Operational Environment Satellite) satellite data is applied. If a conservative interpretation of real-time GOES data indicates that the display point is cloud free, then the ceiling height at that point is reassigned as ‘unlimited’. Visibility values at display points are taken as the visibility observed at the nearest METAR site and are displayed as (i) less than 3 miles (pale yellow), and (ii) 3 miles or greater (pale blue). Flight category values are derived from ceiling and visibility display values according to the official definition, as given in the table below. |VFR (Visual Flight Rules) || Visual Flight Rules || ceiling ≥1000 feet ||visibility ≥ 3 statute miles (sm) |IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) ||Instrument Flight Rules ||ceiling < 1,000 feet || visibility < 3 sm (statute miles)

Inside CVA - How It Works The product makes use of real-time METAR observations to establish C&V (Ceiling & Visibility) conditions at approximately 2000 observing points. At display points between METAR locations (where there are no direct observations), CVA ceiling values are derived as follows: First, nearest-neighbor interpolation is used to find an initial estimate of ceiling height. This init

The ARIZONA CAPITOL MUSEUM PRESENTS: REFLECTIONS ON PEARL HARBOR Wednesday, December 7, 2011, Noon – 1:30 p.m. Arizona Capitol Museum, 3rd Floor Historic Senate Chamber 1700 W. Washington, Phoenix Please join military veterans and other Arizonans for activities at the State Capitol commemorating the 70th Anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. Here is an overview of the events for the day: • Pearl Harbor Memorial Flag arrives at the State Capitol for honor guard display in the rotunda at 10:30 a.m. An honor guard will accompany the flag which will be “piped” on board by a Navy Boatswain’s call. • Pearl Harbor Remembrance at Wesley Bolin Plaza 10:55 a.m. • Pearl Harbor Noontime Speaker Series in the Historic Senate Chamber of the Arizona Capitol Museum. Rear Admiral Gregory C. Horn, Deputy Chief of Chaplains for Reserve Matters and Director of Religious Program, Marine Forces Reserve will be our keynote speaker. • New artifacts on display in the USS Arizona exhibit, first floor of the Museum. Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community will honor their Pearl Harbor Memorial Flag with a ceremony beginning at 5:30 a.m. On December 7, 2007 the flag that was flown over the memorial at Pearl Harbor and was awarded to American Legion Post 114 “Bushmasters” of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community. Every December 7th the Community opens the flag and honors the men and women who sacrificed their lives in service to their country. Following the ceremony the Memorial Flag is escorted to the Capitol for display in the rotunda. We began this tradition last year with a moving Honor Guard display. The flag will be “piped” by a Navy Boatswain’s call on board with an active duty U.S. Navy detail. The flag will arrive by 10:30 a.m. at the latest. At the Signal Mast and Anchor on Wesley Bolin Plaza the annual remembrance program will be hosted by the Unified Arizona Veterans and the Dept. of Veterans’ Services along with other groups. The program will begin at 10:55 a.m. (time of attack in Hawaii). State Historian Marshall Trimble will be the keynote speaker. Secretary of State Bennett will lead the Pledge of Allegiance. Following the program, Secretary Bennett will invite attendees to the noon program in the Historic Senate Chamber of the Arizona Capitol. Navy personnel and Museum volunteers will escort guests to the Museum. The canvass represents the approval of official election results. The canvass will be signed by the Secretary of State during a public ceremony with Governor and Attorney General. The media is invited to attend.

The ARIZONA CAPITOL MUSEUM PRESENTS: REFLECTIONS ON PEARL HARBOR Wednesday, December 7, 2011, Noon – 1:30 p.m. Arizona Capitol Museum, 3rd Floor Historic Senate Chamber 1700 W. Washington, Phoenix Please join military veterans and other Arizonans for activities at the State Capitol commemorating the 70th Anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. Here is an overview of the events for the day: • Pe

Libraries - Information for Teachers Summer reading challenge - every year Libraries keep children reading during the long summer break The Summer Reading Challenge gives children a great chance to feel rewarded for reading, to discover new books and authors and to get into the habit of reading for pleasure. When they register, children receive a collection card. As they read books they can collect stickers to add to their card. There are also activities and story sessions in all Birmingham libraries during the summer break and other activities throughout the year. Book the Young Poet Laureate for your school Birmingham is proud to have its very own Young Laureate. This year's Laureate is 14 year old Damani Dennisur. Did you know you can commission Damani to write a poem to read at special events using our online booking form? Find out more about Damani and how to book. Our previous Young Poets Laureate, wrote many specially commissioned poems on topics such as bullying and racism which make useful resources to use in class. Free use of Reference websites from home/school Find up to date and accurate information from trusted and well-respected sources. Our subscription websites are paid for by Birmingham Libraries and can be used free from home or school just by keying in your library card number. Sites cover a range of subjects and include the Oxford Dictionary of National Biography, Grove Art Online, Times Digital Archive and the new Oxford Islamic Studies Online. Library Services for Schools Services to schools are provided by local libraries throughout Birmingham. You can arrange a class visit to your nearest library for a story or library skills session or have library staff visit your school. You may also want to encourage your students to visit the library in their own time to join in with a homework club, reading trail or teenage reading group. Study guides and revision help for GCSE students For students preparing for their GCSEs, Central Library has all the help they need including free internet use, access to past exam papers, revision guides and quiet space to study. www.birmingham.gov.uk/gcserevision When a book might help includes reading lists on themes of relevance to children and young people including bereavement, bullying, dyslexia and eating disorders. There are also lists of fiction and non-fiction featuring positive images of children with disabilities and caring responsibilities. What can I read next? includes themed reading lists on varous topics put together to highlight events such as Refugee Week and Black History Month. A wealth of information to help students with their homework can be found at: www.birmingham.gov.uk/homeworksupport. Some libraries round the city run regular Homework Support sessions with dedicated staff, books, internet access and other resources. Homework Collections in libraries include GCSE Study Guides and SATs books. Online help can be accessed through a list of weblinks by subject and a number of Hot Topic links on current issues such as the War Against Terrorism. Students can reserve books through the online catalogue and collect them from a library of their choice. They will need their library ticket number and PIN. They can find out their PIN number by contacting their local library. They can choose to be notified when the reservation is ready for collection by sms (text message) or email. If they are not already a member of Birmingham Libraries it is quick and simple to join the library. Creative Learning with Archives Birmingham City Archives employs a Creative Learning Officer (CLO) to help schools in Birmingham access archive material, using funding and support from Creative Partnerships. The CLO acts as a link between the City Archives, teachers, young people and other agencies to plan and coordinate creative heritage projects using archives and can help identify potential funding. Recent projects include A Shared History, A Shared Future which examined slavery past and present in response to the bicentennial of the abolition of the slave trade. Stories from the Web Stories from the Web encourages children to enjoy books and reading and the website is accessed by children from all over the world. Your students could send in their own writing for the gallery or join a club. Resources about the Holocaust Poetry, books and web links Birmingham Libraries has a wide variety of resources to support work about the Holocaust. Many of our Young Poets Laureate have written powerful commemorative poems which are freely available on the Young Laureate website. Our Holocaust Memorial Day booklist for young people includes picture books for older readers, diaries and biographical accounts, non-fiction and fiction for children and teenagers. Our useful websites page has links to lots more information on the subject. Young Readers Schools Programme Young Readers Birmingham is a book festival for children and young people which takes place in May/June each year. The Schools Programme usually includes over 50 events from Foundation to KS3 featuring novelists, poets, storytellers, performers and a teenage debate.

Libraries - Information for Teachers Summer reading challenge - every year Libraries keep children reading during the long summer break The Summer Reading Challenge gives children a great chance to feel rewarded for reading, to discover new books and authors and to get into the habit of reading for pleasure. When they register, children receive a collection card. As they read books they can collec

Visit the Garden Park Fossil Area Two roadside stops occur near two of the historic quarries in the area. From the south, the first is at the Cleveland Quarry (also known as the Delfs Quarry, named for Edwin Delfs, who excavated the quarry for the Cleveland Museum of Natural History between 1954 and 1957). This stop is 6.4 miles north of the intersection of U.S. 50 and Raynolds Avenue on the east (right) side of the road. It is a developed Bureau of Land Management rest stop with picnic tables, a restroom, and interpretive signs. The Cleveland Quarry was across Fourmile Creek near the valley bottom and produced one of the most complete known skeletons of the primitive long-necked sauropod, Haplocanthosaurus delftsi. The skeleton is the only mounted specimen of this genus and is on display in at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History in Ohio. The area around the Delfs Quarry rest stop has produced a number of other fossil finds, including a nest of eggs thought to be from the small dinosaur Othnielia. The eggs of this nest are now on display at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. The second stop is that of the Marsh-Felch Quarry (Fig. 1), located only 0.2 mile north of the Cleveland Quarry stop. The pull off for this stop is on the west (left) side of the road next to a monument showing some of the dinosaurs of the Garden Park area (and some that haven’t been found in the area, including Tyrannosaurus rex, a Late Cretaceous dinosaur). A 0.25-mile long hiking trail (one way) leads from the north side of this monument to an overlook of the Marsh-Felch Quarry. The trail is an easy walk (but is wheelchair accessible for only a short distance), and it includes several interpretive signs along the route and at the overlook. The Marsh-Felch Quarry is the type locality for a number of dinosaur species, including Allosaurus, Ceratosaurus, Diplodocus, Haplocanthosaurus, Labrosaurus, Morosaurus, and Stegosaurus. The bones of 65 dinosaur individuals were found in this quarry. Figure 1—Historic photograph of Marsh-Felch Quarry, looking northwest from overlook, taken in summer of ca.1888. In celebration of the 100 year anniversary of The Antiquities Act, the BLM paired with the Garden Park Paleontologic Society to develop a website that features an interactive map of the Marsh [Felch] Dinosaur Quarry. Through a series of letters written to Othneil C. Marsh, the website describes the life and findings of Marshall P. Felch over the several years that he spent working in the Marsh [Felch] Quarry. Learn more about the Historic Quarries in Garden Park

Visit the Garden Park Fossil Area Two roadside stops occur near two of the historic quarries in the area. From the south, the first is at the Cleveland Quarry (also known as the Delfs Quarry, named for Edwin Delfs, who excavated the quarry for the Cleveland Museum of Natural History between 1954 and 1957). This stop is 6.4 miles north of the intersection of U.S. 50 and Raynolds Avenue on the east

MMWR – Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report News Summary for October 6, 2011 - Traumatic Brain Injuries from Sports and Recreation Activities Among Persons Aged ≤19 Years — United States, 2001–2009 - Illness and Injury from Swimming Pool Disinfectants and Other Chemicals — United States, 2002–2008 - Health Plan Implementation of U.S. Preventive Services Task Force A and B Recommendations — Colorado, 2010 There is no MMWR telebriefing scheduled for October 6, 2011. 1. Traumatic Brain Injuries from Sports and Recreation Activities Among Persons Aged ≤19 Years — United States, 2001–2009 CDC Division of News and Electronic Media During the last decade, emergency department visits for sports- and recreation-related traumatic brain injuries (TBI), including concussions, increased by 60 percent (from 153,375 in 2001 to 248,418 in 2009) among children and adolescents. Bicycling, football, playground activities, basketball, and soccer are the most common activities involved. Growing research, from the sports fields to the classroom, is helping to understand that young athletes with a TBI experience longer recovery times and are at greater risk of serious outcomes. TBI symptoms may appear mild, but this injury can lead to significant, life-long impairment affecting an individual’s memory, behavior, learning, and/or emotions. Appropriate diagnosis and management are critical for helping young athletes with a TBI recover quickly and fully. Health care professionals play a key role in helping keep athletes healthy and active by appropriately identifying, diagnosing, and managing TBI when it does occur. 2. Illness and Injury from Swimming Pool Disinfectants and Other Chemicals — United States, 2002–2008 CDC Division of News and Electronic Media Illness or injury can result when pool disinfectants and other chemicals are stored or used improperly, and when they are handled or applied by untrained persons or persons not using appropriate personal protective equipment. Over 28,000 cases of injury associated with pool chemical exposures are estimated to have occurred in the US between 2002 and 2008, based on projections from a nationally representative sample of hospital emergency rooms and a state-based injury and illness surveillance system. Cases most frequently involved exposures to pool chemicals at private residences, and symptoms most frequently included respiratory symptoms, eye injuries, and skin injuries. Factors included mixing incompatible products, spills/splashes of chemicals, and lack of proper training or supervision. Up to 40 percent of the illnesses were work-related, and factors included failure to use personal protective equipment, failure of application equipment, and mixing incompatible products. The findings suggest that illness and injury can be prevented through better chemical handling practices, pool chemical container and label redesign, and engineering controls, such as adding devices to pools to prevent the mixing of incompatible products. 3. Health Plan Implementation of U.S. Preventive Services Task Force A and B Recommendations — Colorado, 2010 Director of Communications Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) requires commercial health plans to cover services recommended for routine use by the U. S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) (A and B recommendations) at no cost to the consumer. The recommendations of the USPSTF are generally not written in health plan language and certain recommendations such as tobacco screening and counseling, obesity screening and counseling, and colorectal cancer screening, were not uniformly interpreted by health plan administrators. This inconsistency creates the possibility of confusion for the consumer and provider which may lead to underuse of the recommended services. This report outlines how public health could work with health plans to define minimum baseline standards for all A and B recommended services required by PPACA. Get email updates To receive email updates about this site, enter your email address: - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 1600 Clifton Rd Atlanta, GA 30333 TTY: (888) 232-6348 - Contact CDC-INFO

MMWR – Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report News Summary for October 6, 2011 - Traumatic Brain Injuries from Sports and Recreation Activities Among Persons Aged ≤19 Years — United States, 2001–2009 - Illness and Injury from Swimming Pool Disinfectants and Other Chemicals — United States, 2002–2008 - Health Plan Implementation of U.S. Preventive Services Task Force A and B Recommendations — Colora

This article describes research that is aimed at understanding how proteins in the bone marrow environment influences the success of bone marrow transplantation therapies. The bone marrow (BM) niche is essential for lifelong hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) maintenance, proliferation and differentiation. Several BM cell types, including osteoblast lineage cells (OBC), mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) and endothelial cells (EC) have been implicated in supporting HSC location and function, but the relative importance of these cell types and their secreted ligands remain controversial. We recently found that the cell surface receptors Robo4 and CXCR4 cooperate to localize HSC to BM niches. We hypothesized that Slit2, a putative ligand for Robo4, cooperates with the CXCR4 ligand SDF1 to direct HSC to specific BM niche sites. Here, we have isolated OBC, MSC and EC by flow cytometry and determined their frequency within the bone marrow and the relative mRNA levels of Slit2, SDF1 and Robo4. We found that expression of Slit2 and SDF1 were dynamically regulated in MSC and OBC-like populations following radiation, while Robo4 expression was restricted to EC. Radiation also significantly affected the cellularity and frequency of both the non-adherent and adherent cells within the BM stroma. These data support a physiological role for Slit2 in regulating the dynamic function of Robo-expressing cells within BM niches at steady state and following radiation.

This article describes research that is aimed at understanding how proteins in the bone marrow environment influences the success of bone marrow transplantation therapies. The bone marrow (BM) niche is essential for lifelong hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) maintenance, proliferation and differentiation. Several BM cell types, including osteoblast lineage cells (OBC), mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) and

Geologic Observations and Interpretations Along Segments of the Coast JUMBLED HOH ROCKS One of the largest continuous outcrops of jumbled Hoh rocks to be seen along the Washington coast is exposed from the contact of the Quinault Formation, about three-quarters of a mile north of Pratt Cliff to within about one-half of a mile south of Raft River, a distance of some 2-1/2 miles (cover photo and fig. 45). This outcrop is a classic example of the extreme effects of crustal deformation; the results are referred to as a "tectonic melange" (see Part I, Tectonic melange of Hoh rock assemblage). Here, much like the outcrop area of Hoh rocks exposed south of Duck Creek, the materials forming the cliff are a chaotic mixture of completely broken siltstone in which are set a variety of more resistant blocks (fig. 4). Such intensely jumbled rocks are generally believed to have been deformed into their present chaotic condition by major forces generated by the continued movement of large segments of the earth's crust. These forces have caused much folding, faulting, and jumbling, possibly, in part at least, by mass slumping of large segments of the sediments on the sea floor. These forces have continued periodically since the rock materials were deposited, and although not as active today as in the past, movement that is not always perceptible still goes on. Earthquakes locally felt on occasion are the result of sudden movements of the earth's crust, and serve to remind us that the earth's crust is indeed active. Paleontologists have determined from microscopic fossils found in siltstones of these deposits that some of the sediments were deposited in a deep marine basin during a middle to early part of the Miocene Epoch, some 15 to 22 million years ago. Because this formation is so intensely broken and many of the clay minerals it contains tend to swell when they are moistened, it is particularly vulnerable to erosion by ocean waves during high tides and by winter storms. Much precipitation in this area further contributes to the erosion process. Although resistant blocks are scattered throughout this 2-1/2 miles of outcrop, a concentration of particularly large boulders have been eroded out of the melange and now rests on the beach at Boulder Point (fig. 10). A variety of rock types are present among these boulders, representing a number of different environments of origin. Many are altered sandstone and other sedimentary rocks and a few are volcanic in origin. Willoughby Rock (fig. 34) and Split Rock (fig. 48), the two small islands a mile or so offshore from this area, are also very large resistant blocks that were once in the jumbled deposits of Hoh rocks. As the coastline receded slowly eastward, they were left behind, protruding above the general surface of the Continental Shelf, as well as present-day sea level. Northward to Little Hogsback, jumbled Hoh rocks are continuously exposed in the cliffs. At a point about one-quarter of a mile south of Little Hogsback, bedded sandstone and siltstone crop out that are more nearly intact than the deposits to the south, but nevertheless they are tightly folded and extremely contorted. Like Willoughby Rock and Split Rock, Little Hogsback (fig. 49) is a particularly large block of relatively hard material that has been differentially eroded from the softer, less resistant clays and siltstones of the "melange" deposits. It, too, will soon be an isolated island. The rock of Little Hogsback is volcanic in origin, quite unlike the marine sedimentary rocks in which it was incorporated. A contact between well-bedded sedimentary rocks and volcanic rocks can be seen on the southeast side of Little Hogsback. Immediately north of Little Hogsback, steeply dipping well-stratified sandstone, siltstone, and conglomerate are exposed on the beach and in the cliff (fig. 46). Although very little unconsolidated sand and gravel overlies Hoh rocks immediately south of Little Hogsback, northward to the Raft River valley these deposits thicken to as much as 25 feet. Jumbled Hoh rocks extend northward to the Hogsback, forming most of the cliffs of that area. A particularly large accumulation of resistant blocks eroded from the Hoh melange rests on the beach a short distance south of the Hogsback. These are also volcanic in origin and are largely breccia or angular fragments of volcanic materials that have been welded together. Hogsback (fig. 5) also is welded brecciated volcanic fragments but, in addition, it contains some fragments of siltstone and other sedimentary rock types. A steeply dipping fault surface can be seen on the south side between the softer parts of the formation and the volcanic rock of Hogsback. Large veins of calcite are present in the volcanic rocks of Hogsback. In most cases, the mineral has crystallized in a form known as "nailhead spar." In addition, very small quartz crystals have formed on the surfaces of many of the calcite crystals. These quartz crystals can be identified by their six-sided elongated shape. Formation of these mineralized veins took place sometime after the volcanic "host" rock was fractured. Then, by the slow precipitation of calcium carbonate, these fractures were filled. In areas where well-formed crystals remain, the fractures never became completely filled with calcite. Apparently the last ground water to percolate through the crystal-coated cavities was rich in silica, some of which precipitated out of solution adding the coating of small quartz crystals. Jumbled Hoh rocks extend for about three-quarters of a mile northward from Hogsback, forming the lower part of the cliffs and tidal outcrops. Large sandstone blocks are common immediately north of Hogsback, and another large block of volcanic rock forms a stacklike feature a short distance beyond. Cliff outcrops of Hoh rocks end at the south edge of the Raft River valley, about one-quarter of a mile south of Tunnel Island. Natural processes of erosion have been active on this shoreline for many thousands of years and most likely will continue to be so for some time to come. Sea cliffs of jumbled Hoh rocks, like those in the Hogsbacks area, are particularly susceptible to wave action of the sea. Just how much and at what rate land is being eroded can be calculated by comparing original land surveys of 1902 with those made in recent years. A few hundred feet north of Hogsback (fig. 45), an east-west line between an established corner to the east and the edge of the cliff to the west measured 2,053 feet in length in 1902. That same line was surveyed in 1962 and found to be only 1,828 feet in length, a loss of 225 feet in 60 years. At that rate, the cliff recedes eastward about 375 feet in 100 years. Such a general rate of erosion is further indicated by the actual loss in acreage along the coast during the same period of time. Surveys show that one particular government lot contained 30.3 acres in 1902, whereas only 17.3 acres were left in 1962. Another adjacent lot was reduced from 33 acres to just a little over 20 acres. Based on the same rate of coastal erosion, it is therefore possible to estimate that a little over 200 years ago the coastline was probably about even with the western edge of Hogsback; and some 1,200 years ago the present-day offshore Willoughby Rock may have been part of the mainland. RED BEACH SANDS Although isolated patches of red-colored beach sands can be seen in many places along the coast, they are probably most prevalent along the 2-1/2-mile-long Hogsbacks area (fig. 23). "Ruby Beach" to the north no doubt was so named because red sands are also common in that area. This reddish color is caused by the concentration of small "almandite" crystals, a type of red garnet, which is an entirely different mineral than the precious stone known as ruby. The garnet sand grains were originally individual dodecahedron (12-sided) crystals, but most of them have been abraded to a nearly spherical shape. This mineral is relatively heavy and tends to become concentrated in patches by wave action. Several other heavy minerals are frequently found in association with garnet sand. Most common is magnetite, a black-colored mineral that is readily attracted to a magnet. Other associated dark-colored minerals are ilmenite and hematite. In addition, grains of zircon, a heavy and very hard non-magnetic mineral, are found in substantial amounts with the garnet. Zircon grains are very small, well-formed, clear, glassy crystals. For many years it was thought that the only source of these garnet-bearing sands was sand and gravel deposits brought south from Canada by continental ice during the Pleistocene Epoch. However, many of the better concentrations of garnet along the coast are confined to areas where continental deposits have never been found, such as the Point Grenville-Hoh River area. Nevertheless, local glaciers originating in the Olympic Mountains did bring large amounts of sand and gravel to this area. These deposits are primarily sand and sandstone (graywacke) pebbles, much of which were removed from bedrock outcrops of Hoh rocks and other rocks of the Olympic Mountains. Recent studies have shown that these rocks do indeed contain garnets and are therefore now thought to be a major source for garnet and associated minerals found in this beach area. It is interesting to note that at one time a considerable thickness of sand and gravel covered the Hoh rocks of the Hogsback area (see Part I, Late Cenozoic deposits). Presently, however, very little remains at the top of the cliffs. Most of the sand and gravel was removed when sea level stood at a relatively higher elevation and a flat wave-cut surface was carved on the Hoh rocks, the trace of which can be seen at the top of the cliffs of this area. During that period of erosion, heavy minerals were concentrated and deposited on that wave-cut platform. Today, the sea, at a lower level, is eroding the cliffs; and the heavy mineral concentrates are being lowered to present-day beach level and reconcentrated. Last Updated: 28-Mar-2006

Geologic Observations and Interpretations Along Segments of the Coast JUMBLED HOH ROCKS One of the largest continuous outcrops of jumbled Hoh rocks to be seen along the Washington coast is exposed from the contact of the Quinault Formation, about three-quarters of a mile north of Pratt Cliff to within about one-half of a mile south of Raft River, a distance of some 2-1/2 miles (cover photo and fig

The Technical Processing Unit, is responsible for creating and maintaining library online catalog for all materials held by Libraries, cataloging, acquisition, and Serials. Internet Resources for Cataloging: MeSH Browser - NLM Library of Congress Online Catalogs Classification Web - Library of Congress Cataloger's Reference Shelf Z39.50 Maintenance Agency Internet Resources for Serials: PubMed LinkOut: is a feature of Entrez that links users from PubMed citation to our Online full-text journals to which Medical Libraries Section has a subscription, like in EBSCO and MDConsult or to our print scollection. More details Union Catalogue of Health Sciences Journals in EMR: includes journals holdings of local and international journals available in health sciences libraries in the Region. Openly jake: jake is a reference source which makes finding, managing, and linking online journals and journal articles easier for students, researchers, and librarians. Genamics JournalSeek: Genamics JournalSeek is the largest completely categorized database of freely available journal information available on the internet, Gives the journal website. Biomedical Journal Title Search: This service searches over 8,000 titles, including 3,854 titles currently indexed for MEDLINE. Publist: Directory of Periodical Publishers: a database of over 150,000 periodicals; includes publisher address, web sites, etc. Internet Resources for Acquisition: AcqWeb place for librarians and other professionals interested in acquisitions and collection development

The Technical Processing Unit, is responsible for creating and maintaining library online catalog for all materials held by Libraries, cataloging, acquisition, and Serials. Internet Resources for Cataloging: MeSH Browser - NLM Library of Congress Online Catalogs Classification Web - Library of Congress Cataloger's Reference Shelf Z39.50 Maintenance Agency Internet Resources for Serials: PubMed Lin

Agencies in North and South Carolina have agreed on a temporary solution to the problem of accessing the Jim Timmerman Natural Resources Area at Jocassee Gorges through North Carolina. The Jocassee Gorges was purchased by the S.C. Department of Natural Resources (DNR) in 1998, and certain sections can only be legally accessed over roads in North Carolina. The South Carolina DNR secured an easement across certain roads to ensure public access in 1998. In 1999, the N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources bought the property that supports those roads and established Gorges State Park. South Carolina DNR and the N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources have differed in opinion as to how the easement roads will be managed and used by the public. A recent meeting between the agencies was held in Asheville, N.C., where many issue surfaced, but the question of access was not resolved. , The N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources State Parks Division recently offered to open the road with certain restrictions for the spring of 2007. South Carolina DNR accepted the proposal for spring 2007, however many differences of opinion remain to be worked out. “This is a tough situation, where we want to be good neighbors, protect the environment, yet use the privileges we secured for public access at the same time,” said Mark Hall, South Carolina DNR Jocassee project manager. “North Carolina Parks does not want unregulated public vehicular traffic through their park. We respect the State Park’s philosophy of land management, however we think we can derive a solution that will allow regulated public access and satisfy everyone for the long haul.” Persons wishing to access remote portions of the Jocassee Gorges can travel from Salem, S.C., up SC Highway 130 to where the highway changes to NC Highway 281. About 8 miles into North Carolina, take a right into the North Carolina’s Gorges State Park parking lot and enter the access road through the gate at the back of the parking lot. Hunters using the road must unload and case their guns. Visitors must have licensed, four-wheel drive vehicles and may not stop or leave their vehicles until they reach North Carolina Game Lands at Turkey Pen Gap. After reaching Turkey Pen Gap, travel west about 1/2 mile, then south on Bear Creek Road to South Carolina’s Crossroads Mountain. The road will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. from March 20 to May 10. Gates will open at 5 a.m. during the month of April (except Sunday) to accommodate turkey hunters.

Agencies in North and South Carolina have agreed on a temporary solution to the problem of accessing the Jim Timmerman Natural Resources Area at Jocassee Gorges through North Carolina. The Jocassee Gorges was purchased by the S.C. Department of Natural Resources (DNR) in 1998, and certain sections can only be legally accessed over roads in North Carolina. The South Carolina DNR secured an easement

Europe's coastline approaches environmental 'point of no return' - Bulgarian (bg) - Czech (cs) - Danish (da) - German (de) - Greek (el) - English (en) - Spanish (es) - Estonian (et) - Finnish (fi) - French (fr) - Hungarian (hu) - Icelandic (is) - Italian (it) - Lithuanian (lt) - Latvian (lv) - Dutch (nl) - Norwegian (no) - Polish (pl) - Portuguese (pt) - Romanian (ro) - Russian (ru) - Slovenian (sl) - Swedish (sv) - Turkish (tr) PRESS RELEASE - Copenhagen, Monday, 3rd July, 2006 Impacts assessed as millions begin annual pilgrimages to the sea 'The changing face of Europe's coastal areas', warns that a rapid acceleration in the use of coastal space, mostly driven by the recreation and tourism industries, threatens to destroy the delicate balance of coastal ecosystems. For example, approximately two thirds of Europe's wetlands (most of which are coastal) have been lost since the beginning of the 20th century. Development along the Mediterranean has created the 'Med wall' where more than 50% of the coast is dominated by concrete, the report says. "Our coastlines are the richest ecosystems in terms of the number and variety of plants and animals. Coasts also act as economic gateways to Europe; they are part of the fabric of many societies and are crucial to our quality of life," said Professor Jacqueline McGlade, executive director of the EEA. "However, to protect our coastal areas, we need to value them not as playgrounds or transport lanes with unlimited building, living, recreational and shipping potential but as fragile systems that underpin landscapes and amenities at the core of many communities," Professor McGlade said. Population densities along European coast are higher and continue to grow faster than those inland, the report says. Between 1990 and 2000 artificial surfaces (primarily roads and buildings) in coastal zones increased in almost all European countries. The fastest development occurred in Portugal (34 % increase in ten years), Ireland (27 %), Spain (18 %), followed by France, Italy and Greece. The most affected regional seacoast is the Western Mediterranean. Economic restructuring, much of it driven by EU subsidies has been a driver for infrastructure development, which in turn has attracted residential sprawl. Climate change, an ageing, more affluent population, increased leisure and cheaper travel compound these pressures leading to a crises for Europe's coastline, the report says. "Think of the infrastructure required to get one family from Northern Europe to a beach in Spain: transport policies and subsidies, passport agreements, and funding, to name a few. Now think of the impacts on the final destination. As tourists we may contribute to local income and employment, but we also bring pollution and eco-system degradation to areas that have little policy protection and are ill suited to withstand such an intense level of use. While the impacts may be local, the pressures and solutions need to be on a pan-European scale," Professor McGlade said. Despite this challenging situation, new opportunities are being offered to tackle coastal issues in a more holistic way that views our coastlines as mosaics of rivers and their catchments, coastal zones and marine regions. The on-going implementation of 'integrated coastal zone management' (ICZM), reviewed by the European Commission in 2006, is to be welcomed, the report says. "There is a long history of policy initiatives to protect Europe's coastline but these have never been implemented in an integrated manner. ICZM involves all relevant stakeholders and takes a long-term view of the coastal zone in an attempt to balance the needs of development with protection of the very resources that sustain coastal economies. It also takes into account the public's concern about the deteriorating environmental, socio-economic and cultural state of the European coastline," Professor McGlade said. Notes to the editor: To view the full report, follow this link to the EEA Website: http://reports.eea.europa.eu/eea_report_2006_6/en To find out more about the EEA, visit our website: http://www.eea.europa.eu Fact Box on Europe's Coast - 80 % of ocean pollution comes from land-based human activities - Population densities are higher on the coast than inland. For Europe, population densities of coastal regions (NUTS3) are on average 10 % higher than inland. However, in some countries this figure can be more than 50 %. There are many regions where the coastal population is at least five times the European average density. - Artificial surfaces spread by 190 km2 per year between 1990 and 2000. Due to the irreversible nature of land cover change from natural to urban and infrastructure development, these changes are seen as one of the main threats to the sustainability of coastal zones. 61 % of total land uptake by artificial surfaces was due to housing, services and recreation. - The number of invasive creatures in Europe's seas increased substantially between the 1960s and 1980s, particularly in the Mediterranean. Their effect on native coastal ecosystems is becoming difficult and costly to control. The jellyfish Mnemiopsis leydyi is a common example. An explosive growth in its population occurred after its arrival in ships' ballast waters in the late 1980's. This caused devastation in Black Sea fish stocks, oyster and even the indigenous jellyfish population (EEA, 2005b). The jellyfish even found its way into the land locked Caspian sea, causing serious changes to the whole ecosystem (Karpinsky et al., 2005). - The global sea surface temperature has warmed by a mean of 0.6 °C since the late 19th century. The result of sea surface warming is redistribution and loss of marine organisms and a higher frequency of anomalous and toxic phytoplankton bloom events. For media enquiries contact:

Europe's coastline approaches environmental 'point of no return' - Bulgarian (bg) - Czech (cs) - Danish (da) - German (de) - Greek (el) - English (en) - Spanish (es) - Estonian (et) - Finnish (fi) - French (fr) - Hungarian (hu) - Icelandic (is) - Italian (it) - Lithuanian (lt) - Latvian (lv) - Dutch (nl) - Norwegian (no) - Polish (pl) - Portuguese (pt) - Romanian (ro) - Russian (ru) - Slovenian (s

OhioGovOBA Frank J. Lausche State Office Building 615 W. Superior Av. Cleveland, OH 44113 The ENERGY STAR Building Showcase Program at the Frank J. Lausche State Office Building in Cleveland, Ohio is a shining example of how integrated engineering can optimize the operating efficiency of a building. The results of the ENERGY STAR Building Showcase Program at the Lausche Building have been impressive. Based on actual utility billing data, the Lausche Building experienced a 42.4 percent reduction in electricity usage (kWh), a 38.3 percent reduction in kW demand, and an overall energy usage reduction of 32.1 percent (including electricity, gas, and district steam). With an overall annual energy cost reduction of $338,500 (35.8 percent) and at a cost of $1,806,350, the program will yield a simple payback of 5.34 years for the OBA. Please note: Narrative information in this profile has been provided by Ohio Building Authority or a representative of this facility. Other building information was verified and submitted to EPA at the time of application. Building energy performance, operating characteristics, and ownership/management may be subject to change over time. Ohio Building Authority Jones Lang LaSalle Year(s) Labeled (Rating): Facility Type: Office Total Floorspace: 458000 sf Year Constructed: 1979 Contract Type: Multiple Contractor Contracts Financing Type: Public Bond |Stage 3-Load Reductions| |Stage 4-Fan Systems| |Stage 5-Heating and Cooling Plant| For More Info: Columbus, OH 43215

OhioGovOBA Frank J. Lausche State Office Building 615 W. Superior Av. Cleveland, OH 44113 The ENERGY STAR Building Showcase Program at the Frank J. Lausche State Office Building in Cleveland, Ohio is a shining example of how integrated engineering can optimize the operating efficiency of a building. The results of the ENERGY STAR Building Showcase Program at the Lausche Building have been impressi

|In Situ and Ex Situ Biodegradation Technologies for Remediation of Contaminated Sites (22 pp, 812 KB) (EPA/625/R-06/015) October 2006 The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Engineering Issues are a new series of technology transfer documents that summarize the latest available information on selected treatment and site re-mediation technologies and related issues. They are designed to help remedial project managers (RPMs), on-scene coordinators (OSCs), contractors, and other site managers understand the type of data and site characteristics needed to evaluate a technology for potential applicability to their specific sites. Each Engineering Issue document is developed in conjunction with a small group of scientists inside the EPA and with outside consultants and relies on peer-reviewed literature, EPA reports, Internet sources, current research, and other pertinent information. For this Engineering Issue paper, the reader is assumed to have a basic technical background and some familiarity with bioremediation. Those readers interested in a more basic discussion of bioremediation should consult the A Citizen's Guide to Bioremediation (EPA, 2001a). The purpose of this Engineering Issue paper for biodegradation technologies is to summarize current information on bioremediation and to convey that information clearly and concisely to site managers. The Table of Contents indicates the types of information covered in this Engineering Issue paper, and this information relies, wherever feasible, on independently reviewed process performance information. In an effort to keep this Engineering Issue paper short, important information is summarized, while references and Internet links are provided for readers interested in additional information; these Internet links, verified as accurate at the time of publication, are subject to change. You will need Adobe Reader to view some of the files on this page.

|In Situ and Ex Situ Biodegradation Technologies for Remediation of Contaminated Sites (22 pp, 812 KB) (EPA/625/R-06/015) October 2006 The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Engineering Issues are a new series of technology transfer documents that summarize the latest available information on selected treatment and site re-mediation technologies and related issues. They are designed to hel

Earth from Space: Separation by sea The Malaysian Peninsula, the southern extremity of the Asian continent, is shown in this Envisat image. Malaysia is comprised of West Malaysia (the Malaysian Peninsula), formerly known as Malaya, and East Malaysia, which are separated some 600 kilometres apart by the South China Sea. The peninsula lies between the Andaman Sea of the Indian Ocean and the Strait of Malacca on the west and the Gulf of Thailand and the South China Sea on the east. It is bordered on the north by Thailand and on the south by Singapore (separated by the Johore Strait). Malaysia was established in 1963 as a federation of Malaya, Singapore, Sabah and Sarawak. In 1965, Singapore withdrew from the federation to become a separate nation. Since 1966, the 11 states of former Malaya have been known as West Malaysia, and Sabah and Sarawak, both located on the island of Borneo, have been known as East Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur is the capital. Most of Malaysia is covered by forests, ranging from lowland hardwood forests, heath forests and mountain forest. Around 2 500 species of trees are found in the forests, which provide many types of wood, including ebony, sandalwood and teak. The number of flowering plants and ferns found in the forests are estimated to be around 8 500. Although rubber trees – introduced by Brasil – are not endemic to Malaysia, it is the world’s largest rubber producer. Around 450 species of birds are native to Malaysia and many migrating species winter there. Among the most famous are the hornbills, native to Sarawak. Other bird species include egrets, herons, kingfishers, kites, mynahs and pheasants. The Orang-utan, one of the world's most endangered animals, is also unique to this part of the world. Found only in Sumatra and Borneo, the Orang-utan is the only great ape living naturally outside Africa. Malaysians call the ape ‘Orang Hutan’ which in English translates to ‘People of the Forest’. Their survival is constantly threatened by forest fires, felling of trees, poaching and illegal hunting. Malaysia is also home to rhinoceroses, elephants, bears, crocodiles, leopards, monkeys and panthers. Seven turtle species have been recognised living in the world's oceans. Out of these species, four nest on Malaysian shores – the olive-ridley turtle, the hawksbill turtle, the green turtle and the leatherback turtle – and are all currently listed as endangered by the World Conservation Union (IUCN). A system of National Parks has been established to help preserve the country's flora and fauna. Sarawak’s Gunung Mulu National Park, the largest national park covering 52 865 hectares of primary rainforest, and Sabah’s Kinabalu Park have been deemed World Heritage sites by the United Nations’ Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). A labyrinth of caves, including the limestone cave with the largest chamber in the world, lies beneath the Gunung Mulu National Park. This image was acquired on 23 February 2005 by Envisat’s Medium Resolution Imaging Spectrometer (MERIS) working in Full Resolution mode to provide a spatial resolution of 300 metres.

Earth from Space: Separation by sea The Malaysian Peninsula, the southern extremity of the Asian continent, is shown in this Envisat image. Malaysia is comprised of West Malaysia (the Malaysian Peninsula), formerly known as Malaya, and East Malaysia, which are separated some 600 kilometres apart by the South China Sea. The peninsula lies between the Andaman Sea of the Indian Ocean and the Strait o

13 September 2010 Fair Work inspectors to make educational visits to Batemans Bay employers The Fair Work Ombudsman will make educational visits to about 80 businesses in Batemans Bay, NSW over the next three weeks. Fair Work inspectors will doorknock businesses to provide information packs to employers who have entered the national workplace relations system. This follows educational visits to more than 2000 other businesses throughout NSW so far this year. Fair Work Ombudsman NSW Director Mark Davidson says the informal visits are aimed at assisting employers to understand national workplace laws, including the National Employment Standards and Modern Awards. The information packs include helpful resources such as fact sheets, templates and Best Practice Guides. “We are very serious about our job of building knowledge and creating fairer workplaces and we are strongly focused on ensuring the community understands its workplace rights and obligations,” Mr Davidson said. “The best advice I can give to business operators is to get the basics right and everything else should start to fall into place. “By the basics, I mean knowing which Award applies to your employees, the correct classifications for your employees are and which pay rates apply.” The Fair Work Ombudsman has a number of tools on its website - www.fairwork.gov.au - to assist employees and employers. Small to medium-sized businesses without human resources staff can also ensure they are better equipped when hiring, managing and dismissing employees by using free template employment documentation with step-by-step instructions or accessing a series of Best Practice Guides. Employers or employees seeking assistance or further information can also contact the Fair Work Infoline on 13 13 94 from 8am-6pm weekdays. For translations, call 13 14 50. Ryan Pedler, Senior Media Adviser, Media & Stakeholder Relations, (03) 9954 2561, 0411 430 902

13 September 2010 Fair Work inspectors to make educational visits to Batemans Bay employers The Fair Work Ombudsman will make educational visits to about 80 businesses in Batemans Bay, NSW over the next three weeks. Fair Work inspectors will doorknock businesses to provide information packs to employers who have entered the national workplace relations system. This follows educational visits to mo

July 29, 2009 Federal Reserve Districts |Skip to content Economic activity in the Twelfth District appeared to hold largely steady on net during the reporting period of June through mid-July, with continued signs of stabilization or improvement in some sectors. Upward price pressures remained very modest on net, and upward wage pressures generally were absent. Retail sales remained sluggish, while demand for services weakened further. Manufacturing activity in the District stayed mired at very low levels on balance, although demand and activity improved further for manufacturers of information technology products. Sales continued at a solid pace for agricultural producers, while demand fell further for providers of natural resource products. Housing sales and construction picked up in some areas but were weak on net, and demand for commercial real estate continued to fall. Banking contacts reported very weak loan demand and ongoing declines in credit quality. Wages and PricesUpward price pressures continued to be very limited on balance during the reporting period. Oil prices fell from recent highs, and the prices of other commodities remained largely stable. Final prices on various retail goods were held down by continued discounting, and weak demand led to further price reductions for assorted services, such as transportation, hotel rooms, and professional services. With few exceptions, contacts reported that they anticipate prices in their respective industries to stay mostly stable during the second half of 2009. Upward wage pressures remained virtually nonexistent. Contacts continued to report the use of wage freezes or cuts, reductions in benefits, and mandatory furloughs as cost-saving measures in various industries. Hiring remained quite limited, and reports pointed to rising reliance on temporary workers in some sectors, putting additional downward pressure on wages. Retail Trade and ServicesWhile retail sales remained sluggish overall, reports suggested that they were stable or improved slightly compared with the previous reporting period. With consumers staying focused on necessities such as food and sundries, discount chains and grocers continued to see sales growth. By contrast, demand remained quite soft for department stores and many smaller retail outlets, and sales of furniture and household appliances remained anemic. Sales of new automobiles and light trucks continued at exceptionally low levels. Demand for used automobiles stayed comparatively strong, but contacts noted that a lack of suitable inventory has held down sales somewhat. Contacts pointed to ongoing job losses and rising unemployment as the primary factors constraining consumer spending. Demand for services continued to soften on net since the last reporting period. Conditions remained challenging for restaurants throughout the District, with contacts noting significant revenue declines and further closures. Likewise, demand for professional and media services continued to be very weak, resulting in additional layoffs. Demand for transportation services dropped, with reports pointing to further declines in container traffic at ports. Travel and tourism activity in the District fell further; the sharpest declines were evident in the business and luxury segments of the market, which reduced airline traffic. By contrast, providers of health-care services saw a slight increase in patient volumes, reversing the trend of prior reporting periods. Manufacturing Manufacturing activity in the District remained feeble on net during the reporting period of June through mid-July. Metal fabricators continued to experience very weak demand, which held their capacity utilization rates at extremely low levels. Following the seasonal peak in gasoline demand, activity at petroleum refineries declined. Production activity by commercial aircraft manufacturers continued to slow, and their order backlog declined as new aircraft orders were outnumbered by cancellations of existing orders. By contrast, conditions improved further for manufacturers of semiconductors and other information technology products, as sales increased and capacity utilization rates rose significantly. New orders and sales remained strong for food manufacturers. Agriculture and Resource-related IndustriesDemand remained solid for agricultural products but stayed somewhat weak for producers of natural resources. Sales mostly held steady for a variety of crop and livestock products, and contacts noted largely stable input costs, with transportation costs reported to be at the lowest levels recorded at any time during the last three years. Oil extraction activity has expanded in response to earlier increases in the price of oil, but contacts noted that recent declines in oil prices may reverse this trend. Extraction of natural gas has been held down by weak demand and falling prices, with activity reportedly near the lowest levels seen since 2002. Real Estate and ConstructionConditions in District housing markets remained very weak but showed further signs of improvement, while demand for commercial real estate continued to erode. Sales prices for new and existing homes fell further in most parts of the District, and home construction activity remained at very low levels. Combined with low mortgage rates, however, price declines have propelled a sustained pickup in the pace of home sales in many areas. Demand for commercial real estate fell further, and with rising vacancy rates, tenants have successfully been requesting rent concessions and other new terms on existing leases. Construction activity for commercial properties also continued to fall, and contacts noted that a lack of available credit remained a constraint for construction activity and investment transactions in some areas. Financial InstitutionsDistrict lending activity fell further, and credit conditions remained tight during the reporting period. Demand for commercial and industrial loans continued to fall, as business owners remained pessimistic about near-term prospects and continued to restrain their capital spending. Demand for consumer loans also was characterized as weak on net. Banking contacts reported further deterioration in credit quality for business and consumer loans, with bankruptcies and foreclosures staying on an upward trend.

July 29, 2009 Federal Reserve Districts |Skip to content Economic activity in the Twelfth District appeared to hold largely steady on net during the reporting period of June through mid-July, with continued signs of stabilization or improvement in some sectors. Upward price pressures remained very modest on net, and upward wage pressures generally were absent. Retail sales remained sluggish, while

A pedestrian crossing is defined as any location where the pedestrian leaves the sidewalk and enters the roadway. At a pedestrian crossing, the pedestrian's path of travel crosses the motorist's path of travel. Pedestrian crossings include midblock crossings and street intersections. At midblock crossings, pedestrians generally encounter traffic moving in two directions. At signal phasing, traffic is usually moving in multiple directions because of turning vehicles. Overpasses and underpasses route pedestrians above or below vehicular traffic and therefore are addressed as variations in the design of the sidewalk corridor and are included as part of Chapter 4. Designing an effective pedestrian crossing involves the correct layout of a variety of elements including: A design that carefully considers each of these elements is the first step in the creation of an effective pedestrian crossing. Equally important, however, is the way in which these elements are combined. Sometimes variations in the design will be necessary in order for elements to be combined appropriately. More complicated pedestrian crossings, including roundabouts, skewed intersections, and streets with rail tracks are discussed in this chapter and in Chapter 9. Pedestrians are at risk whenever they cross the roadway. The degree of risk depends on the complexity of the vehicular and pedestrian traffic patterns and the effectiveness of supplementary information provided regarding the crossing location, direction, and duration. At street intersections, turning vehicles and the speed at which they travel pose the greatest threat to pedestrians because the motorist's attention is focused primarily on other motorists. In addition to the geometric design of the intersection, pedestrian safety also relies heavily on the information that is provided to pedestrians (e.g., signs or signals). All pedestrians, including people with vision impairments, need the same information at an intersection. Providing vital information in multiple, accessible formats (e.g., visual, auditory, tactile) also benefits all pedestrians since information is better recognized and remembered if it is understood by multiple senses. Generally, the more complex the crossing, the more important it is to have accessible information about the crossing location, direction, and duration. More detailed information about accessible pedestrian information is provided in Chapter 6. A movement barrier is anything that restricts an individual's ability to physically move along or within the sidewalk and crosswalk environment. The greatest movement barriers for pedestrians at pedestrian crossings are: Figure 8-2. Crossing an alley is difficult for people with vision impairments if the motorist's sight lines are short and the crosswalk is raised to enhance access for people with mobility impairments. Detectable warnings are critical whenever the crosswalk is flush with the curb. Information barriers restrict an individual's ability to utilize information contained within the sidewalk environment. The greatest information barriers for pedestrians at crossing locations are: Figure 8-3. GOOD DESIGN: At wide intersections, pedestrian access can be enhanced through a variety of features including ladder marking of crosswalks, perpendicular curb ramps, curb extensions with landscaping, detectable warnings, medians, and accessible pedestrian signals. Techniques that can help improve pedestrian conditions and access at intersections are outlined in the following list and expanded in the subsequent sections: In addition, if commercial facilities are primarily located on one side of a very busy street, public transportation, such as buses, should drop people off on the commercial side of the street whenever feasible to reduce the number of crossings. |Case Study 8-1| Eagle Point, Oregon, improved access to its downtown intersections by moving utility poles, constructing new sidewalks, and implementing other accessibility features. Midblock crossings are locations between intersections where a marked crosswalk has been provided. Midblock crossings are often installed in areas with heavy pedestrian traffic to provide more frequent crossing opportunities. They may also be added near major pedestrian destinations, such as schools, where people might otherwise cross at unmarked locations. Midblock crossings may or may not be regulated. In many situations, midblock crossings are easier for pedestrians to use because traffic is flowing in no more than two directions. However, midblock crossings present some design challenges because motorists often do not expect pedestrians to be crossing at a midblock location. In addition, midblock crossings are difficult for pedestrians with vision impairments to locate; if signalized, pedestrians with visual impairments are often unable to identify when it is their turn to cross because their customary cue, the surge of traffic in the street beside them, isn't present. If not signalized, they are often unable to tell when there is a gap in traffic or whether all approaching cars have stopped (the sound of one idling car can mask the sound of approaching cars). A variety of strategies can be employed to identify midblock crossings to people with vision impairments. If the crossing is signalized, an accessible pedestrian actuated signal device with a locator tone should be provided. Another strategy is to include raised directional wayfinding surfaces across the width of the sidewalk (perpendicular to the sidewalk path of travel). This alerts the pedestrian with visual impairments to the midblock crossing, and they are able to follow the directional surface to the curb on the other side of crossing. In the United States, relatively few midblock crossings incorporate raised directional surfaces, although they are more widely used in other countries, including Japan and England. |Turning Radius||Crossing Distance*||Increased Crossing Distance**| (16.4 ft = 196 in) (35.4 ft = 424 in) (2.6 ft = 30 in) (32.8 ft = 392 in) (51.5 ft = 617 in) (18.7 ft = 223 in) (49.2 ft = 591 in) (72.2 ft = 866 in) (39.4 ft = 472 in) *Measured from the center of the paved portion of the sidewalk corridor **Based on a curb-to-curb distance of 10.0 m (32.8 ft) Designing intersections with smaller turning radii slows traffic speeds and allows perpendicular curb ramps to be positioned parallel to the crosswalk path of travel, as well as perpendicular to the curb (Section 7.2.1). In addition, smaller turning radii significantly decrease crossing distances for pedestrians, as shown in Table 8-1. Smaller radii also enhance detection of the crosswalk and improve crossing conditions for people with vision impairments because there is a greater distinction between the perpendicular and parallel traffic flows. Unfortunately, the turning radius at intersections has gradually increased in order to accommodate larger vehicles and more continuous traffic flow. Current practice dictates that the turning radius be determined by the types of vehicles that travel on the road and the intended speeds for drivers to make right turns. Larger trucks and buses benefit from larger turning radii because they have a longer wheelbase than smaller passenger vehicles. Figure 8-6. Adding bike and parking lanes increases the potential turning radius for oversized vehicles, while maintaining the benefits of smaller turning radii for pedestrians. However, pedestrian access is significantly compromised at intersections with larger turning radii, for the following reasons: Minimum recommendations for turning radius are contained in A Policy on Geometric Design of Highways and Streets (AASHTO, 1996). However, designers rarely adhere to the minimum recommendation. Pedestrians would be better served if designers balanced the needs of larger vehicles with the needs of pedestrians. Whenever possible, creative designs should be used to minimize turning radii at an intersection. Alternatives to building intersections with large turning radii include: Right turns on red create a significant information barrier for individuals with vision impairments. Traffic sounds are a valuable orientation cue for people with vision impairments patterns, such as cars pulling constantly through the intersection, can provide conflicting and unreliable information about the pedestrian crossing interval. Additional research is needed to establish guidelines for when right turn on red should be prohibited at intersections because of the negative impact it has on the safety of all pedestrians, especially those with vision impairments. Turning traffic also has a significant impact on pedestrian travel in general. Motorists who are turning left have their concentration focused on the oncoming traffic. As a result, the attention paid to pedestrians in the crosswalk is decreased. The effect is compounded for drivers who are turning right on a red light. They are not only concentrating on identifying a suitable gap in automobile traffic traveling on a perpendicular path, they often pull into the pedestrian crossing area in order to improve their sight lines and decrease the distance required to merge. When this happens, pedestrians are forced to walk between cars or significantly delay the start of their crossing. Crosswalks are a critical part of the pedestrian network. A crosswalk is defined as "the portion of a roadway designated for pedestrians to use in crossing the street" (Institute of Transportation Engineers, 1998). Crosswalks are implied at all intersections whether or not they are marked. Midblock crossings include all marked crosswalks that do not occur at intersections. Midblock crossings are only created if a marked crosswalk is provided. The agency responsible for the roadway must ensure that all marked and unmarked crosswalks and midblock crossings are optimized for the safety and accessibility of all pedestrians. Crosswalk markings, if provided, are used to define the pedestrian path of travel across the roadway and alert drivers to the crosswalk location. Marked crosswalks should be designed in accordance with the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). Although the MUTCD provides options for crosswalk markings, the continental design is recommended because research indicates that it is the most visible to drivers (Knoblauch et al., 1988). The ladder design is created with white longitudinal lines at a 90 degree angle to the line of the crosswalk. The lines should be approximately 305 mm to 610 mm (12 in to 24 in) wide and spaced 305 mm to 610 mm (12 in to 24 in) apart (USDOT, 1988). The continental design can also be installed so that the primary paths for vehicular tires are between the crosswalk markings, which helps to reduce wear and maintenance. Use of the continental design for crosswalk markings also improves crosswalk detection for people with low vision and cognitive impairments. It is recommended that the continental design be used consistently to mark all crosswalks; otherwise the impact of less visible markings may be weakened by comparison. Figure 8-10. ACCEPTABLE DESIGN: Although crosswalks with parallel markings are permitted by the MUTCD, they are less visible to motorists than crosswalks with ladder striping. In recent years, there has been much debate surrounding the safety implications of marking crosswalks at uncontrolled intersections. Previous research results were contradictory in terms of whether pedestrian vehicle crashes were occurring with more, less, or the same frequency at marked and unmarked crosswalks. The contradictory findings can be attributed to limitations of the research project designs, which contained many confounding variables and small, potentially biased sample sizes and sites. A large study entitled Evaluation of Pedestrian Facilities was completed by the Federal Highway Administration to address the limitations found in previous research (Zeeger, Stewart, & Huang, 1999). None of the sites in the study had traffic signals or stop signs on the approach to the crosswalk. The study examined the safety of marked and unmarked crosswalks and the impact of additional pedestrian treatments, such as signal indications, lights, and traffic calming measures. The study evaluated 1,000 marked crosswalks at uncontrolled locations or locations with no traffic control devices and 1,000 matched but unmarked sites in 30 geographically dispersed cities in the United States. Detailed information collected for each site included pedestrian crash history, pedestrian and traffic volumes, number of lanes, speed limit, type of median, type and condition of crosswalk markings, and crosswalk location. Results of the study indicated that: According to the research, on smaller roadways with lighter traffic volumes, markings do not decrease the pedestrian crash risk; conversely, on large, high-volume roadways, the risk actually increases. However, Zegeer, Stuart and Huang (1999) indicated that the higher risk observed on multi-lane roadways with high ADT rates results from: Figure 8-12. Detectable warnings should be provided at the edge of a raised crosswalk to identify the transition between the sidewalk and the street for people with vision impairments. Zegeer, Stuart, and Huang emphasized that the needs of pedestrians to safely cross streets cannot be ignored and that engineering and roadway treatments should be used to minimize the pedestrian crash risk. Based on these recommendations, it is not appropriate to always remove crosswalk markings from multi-lane roadways with high average daily traffic. Instead, the markings should be enhanced with appropriate additional pedestrian treatments such as signing, traffic calming, signalization, or other countermeasures. Zegeer, Stuart and Huang (1999) offered a variety of recommendations based on the results of their research. Although the study was focused on safety issues, it is interesting to note that the majority of their recommendations for improving pedestrian safety would improve access for people with disabilities. Based on these research results and recommendations for enhancing access to pedestrian rights-of-way (U.S. Access Board, 1999a), the following recommendations are made for the design of pedestrian crosswalks: Pedestrian safety is maximized when drivers are aware of the crosswalk location and know when a pedestrian is attempting to cross. People who use wheelchairs are at a lower height than other pedestrians and may be more difficult for motorists to detect. People with vision impairments cannot establish eye contact with an approaching motorist, which may also decrease the probability that they will be seen or that the motorist will know that a crossing will be attempted. Flashing lights that are activated only when a pedestrian is attempting to cross can enhance crosswalk detection by motorists. The flashing lights, in conjunction with advanced warning signs for the lights, can provide the motorists with more warning of the crossing. A variety of intermittant lighting styles may be used, including: Overhead flashing signals should be installed according to the MUTCD standards. The flashing in-pavement crosswalk lights are currently being tested for their effectiveness by FHWA as a new device and are not currently included in the MUTCD standards. Ultimately, the pedestrian in the roadway is dependent on the motorist's ability to detect the pedestrian with sufficient time to stop given the vehicle's speed. The faster a motorist is traveling, the longer the stopping distance will be. The required vehicle deceleration may be difficult for motorists to judge accurately, if the pedestrian is moving slower than expected. For example, a motorist may see a pedestrian start to cross from a distance and slow their vehicle so that it will approach the crosswalk after the pedestrian has finished crossing. However, if the pedestrian actually moves at a slower pace than anticipated, the motorist may not immediately recognize that greater deceleration or a full stop will be required. Likewise, pedestrians may not be able to judge vehicle approach speed and gap size effectively, especially at night. Raised crosswalks (and other traffic calming devices) can reduce vehicle speeds and improve the crosswalk for individuals with mobility impairments because they eliminate the need to negotiate a curb or ramp. However, if raised crosswalks are installed, the edge of the street must be marked with detectable warnings so people with vision impairments can easily determine when they are leaving the sidewalk and entering the street. Raised intersections are an alternative design but may not reduce vehicular speeds to the same extent. More detailed information on traffic calming techniques can be found in Chapter 9. People's decision and reaction times before they start walking, as well as their walking pace, vary depending on several factors. Older pedestrians and pedestrians with vision or cognitive impairments may all require longer starting times to verify that cars have stopped. They may also have slower reaction times and slower walking speeds. Both powered and manual wheelchair users on level or downhill slopes may travel faster than other pedestrians. But on uphill slopes, manual wheelchair users have slower travel speeds. At intersections without accessible information to indicate the onset and direction of the WALK interval, people with vision impairments require longer starting times to verify that their pedestrian interval has started and it is appropriate to cross safely. Additional information about accessible pedestrian signals can be found in Chapter 6. The MUTCD standard identifies a "normal" walking speed as 1.22 m/s (4 ft/s). However, research indicates that the majority of pedestrians walk at a speed that is slower than this and that 15 percent of pedestrians walk at speeds less than 1.065 m/s (3.5 ft/s) (Kell and Fullerton, 1982). The latter group includes a large proportion of people with ambulatory impairments and older adults. As the population ages, the number of pedestrians traveling at slower walking speeds is increasing. Therefore, it is recommended that the calculation of all crossing times be based on a walking speed of no more than 1.065 m/s (3.5 ft/s). The City of San Francisco calculates pedestrian crossing times based on a walking speed of 855 mm/s (2.8 ft/s). In the past, transportation manuals have recommended longer crossing times at intersections with high volumes of older adults or people with mobility impairments. However, every intersection will be used by a variety of pedestrians including some individuals who walk slowly and others who walk quickly. Therefore, adjusting crossing times based on 1.065 m/s (3.5 ft/s) should be considered at all intersections. Longer pedestrian signal cycles are strongly recommended at crossings that are unusually long or difficult to negotiate. Longer signal cycles are also recommended for crossings, such as those that provide access to a rehabilitation or senior center, where a higher proportion of the potential users may have a slower walking speed. Engineers are also encouraged to consider recent advancements in technology that can detect pedestrians in the crosswalk and extend the pedestrian interval as needed. Note that accessible pedestrian signals may be necessary since pedestrians who are blind may not know how the signals cycle. If crossing times cannot be reduced, crossing distance should be decreased to benefit pedestrians who need more time to cross or who may require a rest or break during long or complex crossings. Crossing distances can be reduced by extending the sidewalk into the parking lane, by narrowing the existing lanes, or by providing medians to divide the crossing into two segments. Medians are the portion of a divided roadway that separates traffic flows heading in opposite directions (US DOT, 1994b). At roundabouts, these are called splitter islands. Medians help pedestrians cross intersections by reducing the crossing distance from the curb to a protected area. This allows pedestrians to cross during smaller gaps in traffic. For this reason, medians are especially helpful for pedestrians who are unable to judge distances accurately. In addition, medians also help people with slow walking speeds to cross wide intersections during a short signal cycle. Medians are also useful at irregularly-shaped intersections, such as sites where two roads converge into one (Earnhart & Simon, 1987). In commercial districts, medians provide pedestrians with valuable protection from oncoming traffic. In residential areas, they serve as traffic calming devices and green space. Whenever possible, medians should be raised to separate pedestrians and motorists. Raised medians make the pedestrian more visible to motorists and they are easier for people with vision impairments to detect. Raised medians should be designed with a cut-through at street level or a ramp. This provides pedestrian access to individuals who cannot travel over a curb. Detectable warning surfaces should be placed at the edge of both ends of the median in order for the streets to be recognized by pedestrians who are visually impaired. If the corner includes a pedestrian actuated control device, one should also be located at the median. (See Chapter 6.5 for more information.) Figure 8-16. GOOD DESIGN: The height of this median does not exceed 76 mm (3 in). This design allows for the construction of shorter curb ramps and a longer level landing. If a median is ramped (see Figure 8-14), the slope of the ramps must not exceed 8.33 percent. In addition, a level area at least 915 mm (36 in) wide and 1.22 m (48 in) long is required. If space allows, a level area at least 1.525 m x 1.525 m (60 in x 60 in) is preferred. This is often difficult to achieve where the available space is restricted. One creative solution is presented in Figure 8-16. Rather than raising the landing the full height of the median [e.g., a full 152 mm (6 in)], the landing is only raised 76 mm (3 in), which allows for much shorter ramp lengths and a longer landing. A 610 mm (24 in) strip of detectable warnings should be provided at the end of both curb ramps. Figure 8-17. PROBLEM: Offsetting median ramps is a common mistake made by designers who do not understand the mobility limitations of wheelchair users. Providing a level landing is not sufficient if the landing does not connect to the subsequent ramp. If the raised median is cut-through level with the street (see Figure 8-15), it should be at least 915 mm (36 in) wide and 1.22 m (48 in) long. If space permits, the cut-through passage width should be 1.525 m (60 in). The median width should be at least 1.83 m (72 in) for pedestrian safety. A slight crowning of the surface (no greater than 5 percent) may be necessary for drainage. Cut-through medians should have a 610 mm (24 in) wide detectable warning at each end to identify the edge of the street. In addition to medians, raised pedestrian refuge areas are sometimes installed between the independent right turn lane and the intersection through lanes. The right turn lane is often called a right slip lane because motorists are not expected to come to a complete stop at the intersection. Right slip lanes are designed to improve traffic flow by minimizing the drivers need to stop at an intersection; therefore, driver speeds through the crosswalk tend to increase. To limit motorist speeds, a compound curve radius should be used (see Section 8.3 for details). Even if vehicle speeds are somewhat controlled by the radius of the corner, a right turn slip lane still creates significant access barriers for pedestrians. For example: Figure 8-18. This corner island was installed at a corner with a compound curve radius. This design allows the use of larger turning radii where required, and pedestrians benefit from the positive aspects of a tight corner that forces drivers to decrease speeds. The benefits of right turn slip lanes are focused on improving the flow of vehicular traffic. However, given the significant drawbacks of right turn lanes separated by a corner island (see Figure 8-18) for pedestrians with and without disabilities, designers and engineers are challenged to develop alternate solutions that will not compromise access or safety. If a right turn slip lane is deemed necessary despite the drawbacks, the island should be raised and contain cut-throughs or ramps. In addition, design features should be installed to control or calm the traffic, such as pedestrian-activated signals, or raised crosswalks with detectable warnings. If cut-throughs are used, they should be at least 915 mm (36 in) wide (1.525 m (60 in) preferred). If ramps are provided, the passage should be at least 915 mm (36 in) wide (1.525 m (60 in) preferred), with a center landing at least 1.22 m (48 in) (1.525 m (60 in) preferred). The ramp slope must not exceed 8.3 percent. Both ramps and cut-throughs should include a 610 mm (24 in) strip of detectable warnings at the island/street interface. At pedestrian crossings, generous sight distances and unobstructed sight lines will allow motorists and pedestrians to detect each other in time to avoid collisions. Motorists also need appropriate sight distances to see traffic signals in time to stop. Sight lines should be designed so that the motorist can observe the movement of the pedestrian for a long enough period of time to accurately determine the pedestrian's speed. If the motorist has only a brief glimpse of the pedestrian, as at right turn slip lanes, and cannot observe the pedestrian's speed, he or she may overestimate the speed of slower pedestrians and not sufficiently slow his or her approach to the crosswalk. Figure 8-21. The parking lane in this illustration extends all the way to the crosswalk and prevents drivers from seeing pedestrians starting to cross the street. Parking lanes should be set back from the corner to increase the sight lines of motorists. While bollards, landscaping, benches, and bus shelters make pedestrian areas more inviting by calming traffic and providing amenities, they can also clutter the environment and limit the sight distance for motorists and pedestrians waiting to cross the intersection. Small children and people in wheelchairs are particularly vulnerable when sight lines are blocked. They may be unable to see over the obstacles and are at lower heights than drivers anticipate. Figure 8-22. Curb extensions improve visibility between pedestrians and motorists and make it easier to install perpendicular curb ramps with level landings. Regulations that prohibit parking at the corner can also improve blocked sight lines. The best way to improve pedestrian visibility at an intersection is to install curb extensions to prevent parking at intersection corners and improve the visibility of pedestrians to motorists. Low landscaping or grass can be added to the curb extension to clarify the appropriate path of travel for individuals with vision impairments. In addition, the following steps should be considered: Streets planned on a grid are generally easiest for pedestrians to negotiate because they result in intersections at 90 degree angles. Perpendicular intersections are easier to negotiate because the path of travel is clear and direct, and sight lines are good in all directions. Skewed intersections occur when streets cross at angles other than 90 degrees and create complicated scenarios for both pedestrians and drivers. Skewed intersections should be avoided whenever possible during the planning stages of the development process. However, in some areas site constraints prevent the installation of perpendicular intersections. When skewed intersections are unavoidable, the intersection should be designed so that the angle between intersecting streets is as close to 90 degrees as possible. In addition, if major alterations are being done to an existing skewed intersection, transportation agencies should consider whether it is possible to reconfigure the intersection so that the crossings are more perpendicular. At some skewed intersections, the crosswalks are moved back from the intersection to allow the crossing distance to be shorter and more perpendicular to the sidewalk. However, this design is only recommended if pedestrians with vision impairments can identify the unusual crossing location. People with vision impairments rely on predictable pedestrian travel paths to determine their crossing direction and location. Therefore, they are likely to experience difficulty locating crosswalk paths that are not aligned with the sidewalk path of travel. To enhance detection, a barrier or landscaping can be installed at the expected crossing location and an accessible pedestrian signal with a locator tone should be provided to identify the crosswalk location. Including raised directional surfaces (tiles to help locate the crosswalk) may also be useful for pedestrians with vision impairments. In addition to the drawbacks for pedestrians with vision impairments, other potential problems for this layout include: Figure 8-24. GOOD DESIGN: Transportation agencies should consider reconfiguring skewed intersections during alterations so that pedestrian crossings are perpendicular. Permitting pedestrians to cross in the expected location is preferred to pushing the crosswalks back from the intersection, although this design increase the crossing distance. The following strategies are recommended to improve skewed intersections with this design: Figure 8-25. GOOD DESIGN: When skewed intersections are unavoidable, crosswalks should be placed at the expected location, and accessible medians should be installed to break up the long crossing distances. Tracks for trains, light rail vehicles, or trolleys cross the streets of many urban communities as well as in rural areas. Railroad crossings have flangeway gaps that allow passage of the wheels of the train. The flangeway gaps are often large exceeding the 13 mm (0.5 in) limit for openings. Railroad crossings are hazardous for all pedestrians and bicyclists. They are particularly hazardous to those who rely on wheeled devices for mobility. Wheelchair and scooter casters, as well as the tires of bicycles can easily get caught in the flangeway gap. In addition, rails or ties that are not embedded in the travel surface create a tripping hazard. Pedestrian safety and accessibility at railroad crossings can be enhanced by: The flangeway gap is essential to the function of the railroad system. Currently, a rubber insert is available to fill the flangeway gap for light rail tracks that have trains traveling at low speeds (e.g., approaching a transit stop). These "flangeway fillers" provide a level surface for pedestrians but deflect downward with the weight of the train. In this way, pedestrians can cross a "gap free" surface and rail function is unaffected. At the present time, there are no similar products on the market for high speed and heavy freight lines. Further research is needed to develop a product that works for all types of trains. Figure 8-28. The "flangeway filler" eliminates the gap in the path of travel for pedestrians crossing railroad tracks. The filler, consisting of a rubber insert, will deflect downward with the weight of a train and does not affect railway function.

A pedestrian crossing is defined as any location where the pedestrian leaves the sidewalk and enters the roadway. At a pedestrian crossing, the pedestrian's path of travel crosses the motorist's path of travel. Pedestrian crossings include midblock crossings and street intersections. At midblock crossings, pedestrians generally encounter traffic moving in two directions. At signal phasing, traffic

|FHWA > Engineering > Pavements > Preservation > Looking at Long-Term Results| Pavement Preservation Compendium II Looking at Long-Term Results Performance of Test Section After 13 Years by Gary Hildebrand and Scott Dmytrow To evaluate the "preventive maintenance effectiveness of flexible pavement treatments," the Strategic Highway Research Program placed sections for Specific Pavement Studies 3 (SPS-3) throughout the United States and Canada in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Each SPS-3 project included test sections that received different treatments. The project test sites were in four climate zones; exhaustive information was recorded at construction; and performance data were captured periodically by the Long-Term Pavement Performance team and stored in the DataPave software. After 13 years, what conclusions can be drawn? What is the effectiveness of the preventive maintenance treatments? Following is a report on one SPS-3 project in California,1 observed on May 23, 2003. A brief history of the California SPS-3 project is as follows: Treatments and Conditions Different preventive maintenance strategies were applied to 11 segments of the test section in 1990. One segment was routed and crack sealed, one was slurry sealed, five had different chip seals applied, and four received different overlays of hot-mix asphalt (HMA). The control section received no preventive maintenance. After 13 years, the segment with rout and crack seal was only in marginally better condition than the control section. The entire rout-and-crack-seal test section had to be crack-sealed during the first few years (circa 1992) and again in 2000 to fix adhesion problems. Ride quality on the rout-and-crack-seal section is similar to that on the control section. In addition, part of this test section has deteriorated badly, possibly because of an underlying condition. The slurry seal has performed well, with no delaminating (i.e., separation from the surface) or raveling (i.e., loss of aggregate from the surface) - the roadway remains protected. Most of the cracks seem to have reflected through the slurry but have been crack-sealed, preventing moisture intrusion and base damage. Overall, the five different chip seals have performed well, with minimal raveling, bleeding (i.e., a layer of asphalt binder migrating to the surface), or flushing (i.e., minor bleeding of binder). Some chip seals, however, had more reflective cracking than others. The four HMA overlays also have performed well, although reflective cracking has occurred in the two sections with conventional HMA overlays. The fiber and asphalt rubber HMA overlays, however, appear to have an increased resistance to reflective cracking. In contrast to the 11 test segments, the control or "do nothing" section is in very poor condition. The ride quality is bad and the section is in need of more than preventive maintenance. The crack filler appears to be the only thing keeping this section intact. Between each test section is an unofficial control section. Each of these is also in very poor condition and will require more than preventive maintenance. With the exception of the rout-and-crack-seal section, all of the maintenance strategies are performing well. The treatments have extended the life of the pavement and have kept the roadway in a condition acceptable to the motoring public. Each of the maintained sections could gain extended life with the application of another maintenance treatment. The slurry and seal coat sections require a thin blanket or leveling course to restore ride quality. The thin overlay sections could benefit from either a slurry seal or another seal coat, because the ride quality generally is good. To obtain long-term service from the rout-and-crack-seal or control sections, extensive and costly rehabilitation strategies may be necessary. The treatments applied to this test section demonstrate the benefits of PM for roads in good condition. When the SPS-3 strategies were applied in 1990, the 1985 chip seal was in good shape, the ride quality was good, and the distress consisted of transverse and longitudinal cracks approximately one-quarter inch wide. After 13 years, almost all of the PM-treated sections are still serviceable. The test site is a very low-volume roadway in a non-freeze-thaw area. Achieving the same magnitude of success elsewhere with any of these strategies, therefore, requires comparable traffic and weather conditions. The test sections prove the viability of PM treatments. Another PM treatment on the test sections could extend the life of this roadway another 5 to 10 years. This site shows that a pavement placed in 1980 can be maintained for more than 30 years in a condition acceptable to the general public - and to taxpayers - at the cost of a few PM treatments. For more information contact Gary Hildebrand, Telfer-Windsor Fuel Co., P.O. Box 38, Windsor, CA 95492 (telephone: 916-354-9760; e-mail: [email protected]). 1 06A300; GPS Section 061253; Butte County, California; State Route 32; PM 15.96-18.71; average annual daily traffic: 2,900 vehicles. Hildebrand is Pavement Preservation Specialist, Telfer-Windsor Fuel Company, Windsor, California; Dmytrow is Technical Marketer, Koch Pavement Solutions, Sacramento, California. From TR News, September-October 2003, pp. 4-15. Copyright, Transportation Research Board (TRB), National Research Council, Washington, D.C. Reprinted with permission of TRB.

|FHWA > Engineering > Pavements > Preservation > Looking at Long-Term Results| Pavement Preservation Compendium II Looking at Long-Term Results Performance of Test Section After 13 Years by Gary Hildebrand and Scott Dmytrow To evaluate the "preventive maintenance effectiveness of flexible pavement treatments," the Strategic Highway Research Program placed sections for Specific Pavement Studies 3 (

PAG Midcourse Report The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans Midcourse Report: Strategies to Increase Physical Activity Among Youth [PDF - 2.2 MB] identifies interventions that can help increase physical activity in youth ages 3–17 years across a variety of settings. The primary audiences for the report are policymakers, health care and public health professionals. The report summarizes intervention strategies based on the evidence from a review-of-reviews literature review and is organized into five settings where youth live, learn, and play: - Preschool and childcare - Family and home - Primary health care The PAG Midcourse Report infographic [PDF - 1.3 MB] [JPG - 923 KB] illustrates the five settings described in the report and highlights opportunities to increase physical activity throughout the day. The youth factsheet [PDF - 381 KB] is a 1-page desk reference that summarizes the PAG recommendations for youth ages 6 to 17 years, and provides examples of various physical activities for this age group. top of page PAG Midcourse Report Subcommittee U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius and Assistant Secretary for Health Howard Koh approved the creation of a subcommittee of the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports & Nutrition to complete the PAG Midcourse Report. The PAG Midcourse Report Subcommittee [PDF - 281 KB] is composed of ten physical activity experts from a variety of sectors and backgrounds. President’s Council on Fitness, Sports & Nutrition Webinar During a live webinar on December 13, 2012, PAG Midcourse Report Chair, Dr. Risa Lavizzo-Mourey presented the PAG Midcourse Report Subcommittee's findings and recommendations to the President's Council on Fitness, Sports & Nutrition. top of page

PAG Midcourse Report The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans Midcourse Report: Strategies to Increase Physical Activity Among Youth [PDF - 2.2 MB] identifies interventions that can help increase physical activity in youth ages 3–17 years across a variety of settings. The primary audiences for the report are policymakers, health care and public health professionals. The report summarizes int

/ Home / Learning Here / Support for Learners / Specialist Services / Gypsy Travellers - Interrupted Learners Gypsy Travellers - Interrupted Learners Development Officer - Interrupted Learning Tel: (01349) 868208 What do we do? Highland Council staff work in partnership with parents/carers to ensure that the needs of children are supported. The Council promotes an inclusive approach to service provision and takes account of individual needs and circumstances. Who is the service for? The Interrupted Learning Development Officer works Highland wide in partnership with staff in Education, Health, Social Work, Housing and other agencies including the voluntary sector. The integrated services approach is employed to ensure consistency of approach in meeting the educational needs of Gypsies and Travellers, and children who experience interrupted learning. Advice & support to Gypsy and Traveller families about education. - Support to Gypsy and Traveller families in accessing school, nursery and other educational opportunities - Consultation, advice and support for education staff and staff in other agencies - Co-operative teaching - Teaching support to individual/small groups of pupils - Loan service of resources to schools, support staff and children and families. - In-service training The service is available to all families from a Travelling background. A multi-agency approach is employed to allow appropriate support to be made available to travelling families. Decisions relating to individual children and families who experience interrupted learning are made in consultation with Head Teachers, Area Managers and the Support for Learning Teams. Gypsy/Travellers and Children who Experience Interrupted Learning - Gypsy/Travellers and Children who experience Interrupted Learning [pdf] - The Scottish Traveller Education Programme (STEP) have produced 3 booklets for Gypsy/Traveller families called ‘Education in Scotland , Being Safe in School in Scotland and Additional Support for Learning in Scotland with an accompanying DVD (which assists with literacy difficulties). The information will also be useful for schools and can be accessed and downloaded on the STEP website http://www.education.ed.ac.uk/step/. Further packs or individual copies can be purchased directly from STEP by contacting Jean Oliver on 0131 651 6440 or emailing to [email protected] If a school admits new Gypsy/Traveller children the Gypsy Traveller Development Officer can provide the family with packs. - My Learning Record This is a family held educational record. Families can give it to a school when their child enrols and collect it back when their child leaves. It provides an initial education record in order to support continuity of education for the child. - Initial Rapid Assessment Guide The Initial Rapid Assessment Guide (IRAG) for Gypsies and Travellers within the context of interrupted learning: guidance for teachers. This document provides guidance and materials to carry out an initial and rapid assessment of the reading, writing and mathematical skills of a pupil.

/ Home / Learning Here / Support for Learners / Specialist Services / Gypsy Travellers - Interrupted Learners Gypsy Travellers - Interrupted Learners Development Officer - Interrupted Learning Tel: (01349) 868208 What do we do? Highland Council staff work in partnership with parents/carers to ensure that the needs of children are supported. The Council promotes an inclusive approach to service pro

Department Critical Infrastructure Protection Implementing Plans to Protect Cyber-Based Infrastructure Report No. 04-05 Office of the Inspector General 2. ESTABLISHING AN EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PROGRAM Although the April 1999 CIP Plan contained a comprehensive blueprint and milestones for an effective, centrally managed Department emergency management program, such a program has not been fully implemented. Many of the critical emergency management program elements relating to indications and warnings, incident collection, reporting and analysis, and response and contingency planning were neither established nor operating. Although the CIP Task Force was responsible for developing and implementing the CIP Plan, including the emergency management program, the Task Force ceased operating during calendar year 2000 and had no further involvement in implementation activities. As a result, the Department has less than adequate assurance that it can effectively respond to computer attacks and security incidents. The April 1999 CIP Plan established the critical elements for an effective emergency management program and tasked the CIP Task Force (CIPTF) with its implementation. The CIPTF had members in 9 law enforcement entities, 5 litigating divisions, and 12 other entities. See Appendix 10 for Department entities that had CIPTF members. The Department's emergency management program, as envisioned in the CIP Plan, was to incorporate the following three elements. The CIP Plan also established several intermediate milestones for implementing the three essential elements of the Department emergency management program. Full implementation of the program was to occur no later than September 28, 1999. Although the CIP Plan contained a comprehensive blueprint and milestones for an effective, centrally managed Department emergency management program, such a program was never fully established. Officials of the IMSS indicated that the CIP Task Force, tasked with implementing the emergency management program, last met during calendar year 2000 and was no longer in existence. In response to our inquiries, those IMSS officials could not provide an explanation as to why no further effort was made to implement the plan. Officials of the IMSS also stated that although the emergency management program as envisioned in the CIP Plan had not been implemented, most of the elements of an effective emergency management program were nevertheless in place and operating throughout the various Department components. However, in evaluating the Department's response capabilities to computer security incidents, we found that many of the four critical emergency management program elements relating to 1) indications and warnings, 2) incident collection, reporting and analysis, 3) response plans and 4) contingency planning were neither established nor operating. Our specific observations follow. (1) Indications and Warnings The IMSS did not ensure that this element of the emergency management program was fully implemented. According to JMD officials, communication channels were established for passing threat information from internal and external organizations to Department components at both headquarters and field locations charged with protecting the Department's critical infrastructure assets. Specifically, the DOJCERT is the Department's central point for receiving and disseminating indications and warnings.30 Within the DOJCERT, a contractor operates the Department's-Information Sharing and Analysis Center and provides a departmentwide mechanism for sharing vulnerabilities to better prepare the Department for responding to cyber attacks. Additionally, the DOJCERT has implemented an intranet web page that includes a search capability for previously distributed indication and warning bulletins, and an Internet web page for information purposes. Although communication channels were established for passing threat information, the IMSS did not determine whether the channels were secure, effective, and provided timely information as required by the CIP Plan. Additionally, the IMSS did not verify whether effective liaisons with the FBI's NIPC or the SIOC were established and ongoing. See Finding 3 for more details concerning liaisons not being adequately identified. Unless all indication and warning elements are in place, the Department does not have the assurance that communication channels for sharing vulnerabilities are secure and that components are receiving timely information to better equip them to respond to computer security incidents. (2) Incident Collection, Reporting, and Analysis The IMSS did not ensure that this element of the emergency management program was fully implemented. Although detailed procedures for components to follow when reporting computer security incidents were developed, the IMSS did not verify that these procedures were implemented and being followed, nor did the IMSS ensure that security incident data was being collected and analyzed. The JMD CSS developed the June 27, 2002, Standards, Guidelines, and Standard Operating Procedures for the DOJCERT (Department Manual TP-001). This directive was developed in response to an increase in computer attacks and contains detailed procedures for effective handling and reporting of computer security incidents. Department Manual TP-001 identifies and defines the following nine computer security incident categories. Because incidents may have many possible consequences ranging from slight to catastrophic, Department Manual TP-001 outlines five priorities to consider when evaluating and dealing with computer security incidents. The Department Manual TP-001 also contains detailed reporting requirements for components to follow in reporting computer security incidents. For incidents involving SBU systems, components are required to provide the DOJCERT a verbal report within one working day after an incident has occurred. Within five working days, a written preliminary incident report, containing as much information as possible, is to be submitted. Within ten working days of the resolution of an incident, a written formal report is to be submitted, and in cases where incident resolution is expected to take more than 30 days, a status report is to be submitted to the DOJCERT every 10 days. For incidents involving NSI, components follow the same reporting requirements with the exception that the reports are provided to the Department Security Officer rather than to the DOJCERT. Although detailed procedures were developed by the CSS for components to follow in reporting computer security incidents, the IMSS could not substantiate whether the procedures were implemented and were being followed. According to IMSS staff, tabulated summaries on the number and type of incidents are reported each month. However, the IMSS could not provide tabulated summaries regarding the nature, frequency, category, and remediation of prior Department computer security incidents or possible trends and potential systemic weaknesses based on analyses of prior incidents. In addition, the IMSS did not verify whether additional procedures for collecting and analyzing incidents as required by the CIP Plan were developed and in place. We asked the IMSS for an explanation why no verification of additional procedures occurred but the IMSS officials provided no response. Although there is no specific requirement that the IMSS maintain documentation for these activities, absent such documentation, the Department does not have the assurance that additional procedures for collecting and analyzing incidents as required by the CIP Plan were developed and in place. Absent the documentation described above, the IMSS will have little assurance that it is developing effective countermeasures from prior attacks and providing this knowledge to components to enhance response capabilities. (3) Response Plans We determined that the IMSS did not fully implement this element of the emergency management program. Although requirements had been established for developing, implementing, and testing incident response procedures, the IMSS did not verify whether the procedures were in place and operating. Department Manual TP-001 requires each Department component to: a) develop, implement, and maintain internal incident response procedures, and b) identify an appropriate individual responsible for reporting incidents to the DOJCERT. The Manual also provides the minimum level of procedures for component incident response programs and specifies that the response procedures should be documented by each component and submitted to the DOJCERT to be kept on file. In addition to developing Department Manual TP-001, JMD CSS also developed the June 17, 2002, DOJCERT Procedures Manual, which outlines CSS Service Center and DOJCERT procedures for responding to Department computer security incidents.31 In responding to an incident, the CSS Service Center assigns a number to the incident and completes an incident report form that is forwarded to an incident manager then to the DOJCERT program manager for investigation and resolution.32 Upon notification of the incident, the DOJCERT Program Manager performs an initial assessment by: a) reviewing the incident report to determine the severity of the problem; b) locating sources and organizing steps for solutions; c) determining who should be notified and involved in working the solution; d) determining whether a Security Alert needs to be broadcast;33 and e) determining whether the FBI, NIPC, Federal Computer Incident Response Center (FedCIRC) or SEPS need to be notified.34 After completing the initial assessment, the Program Manager then initiates the solution identified during the assessment process and updates the ticket management system with information about the implemented solution and the incident response process. Although detailed response procedures for computer security incidents had been established, the IMSS had not ensured that the procedures were implemented and being followed. Specifically, the IMSS did not verify whether components had developed, implemented, and maintained internal incident response procedures and whether components had identified appropriate individuals responsible for reporting incidents to the DOJCERT. Although there is no specific requirement that the IMSS maintain documentation for these activities, absent such documentation the Department does not have assurance that response procedures are effective. In May 2003, we sought any changes in these procedures. Information and Management Security Staff indicated that they were able to provide summary information on computer incidents, but as of June 6, 2003, no documentation had been provided. In a 2002 review of the FBI's Automated Case Support System pursuant to the GISRA, OIG auditors determined that the FBI is not following the incident response requirements outlined in Department Manual TP-001.35 Specifically, personnel had not been formally trained to identify and handle incidents and the incident response procedures had not been centralized or implemented across the FBI. This condition occurred because the FBI had not yet developed incident response procedures that meet the requirements of the DOJCERT or trained employees in the incident response procedures and requirements. As a result, the FBI increased its risk of having incidents occur without its knowledge or proper follow-up. Had the IMSS verified implementation of the DOJCERT requirement, such lapses in complying with incident response requirements could have been avoided. Additionally, although the CIP Plan requires periodic testing of response plans, such testing had not been conducted. Information Management and Security Staff officials maintained that response plans were in fact tested during the last major incident involving a computer worm; however, a response during a single actual incident does not constitute complete testing of the response plans because some aspects of the plan may not be involved in the response to a single live incident.36 The IMSS officials added that testing was also unnecessary because they frequently received component warnings from the DOJCERT. They reasoned they could only receive such warnings if the response plans were working. We disagree with this reasoning because a single incident may test some aspects of a response plan while a complete test would check all aspects of the response plans. Testing of response plans is crucial to identifying weaknesses prior to the occurrence of an actual incident. (4) Contingency Plans We determined that the IMSS did not fully implement this element of the emergency management program. Although requirements had been established requiring components to develop and periodically test contingency plans, we found that the majority had not done so. On July 12, 2001, the JMD Information Management and Security Office issued the Department Order 2640.2D, requiring components to develop contingency plans for: a) continuing missions in the event IT systems become unavailable, and b) recovering IT systems in event of loss or failure. In complying with the Department Order, components must ensure that contingency plans: The Department Order also requires components to: a) test contingency resumption plans annually or as soon as possible after a significant change to the environment that would alter the in-place assessed risk, and b) develop and maintain site plans detailing responses to emergencies for IT facilities. Although the Department Order required components to develop and test contingency plans as well as site plans detailing responses to emergencies for IT facilities, the IMSS could not provide support that components had done so. We noted the following deficiencies. Although the CIP Task Force was charged with developing and implementing the Emergency Management program, the Task Force never did so. Information Management and Security Staff officials stated that the Task Force last met during calendar year 2000 and was no longer in existence. They added that the Task Force's primary responsibility when it did meet was to work on Year 2000 conformity issues.38 According to an IMSS official, once the Year 2000 conformity issues were resolved, the task force no longer convened. In response to our inquiries, IMSS officials could provide no explanation as to why no further effort was made to implement the plan. Further, the IMSS officials stated that although the emergency management program as envisioned in the CIP Plan had not been implemented, they believed that most of the elements of an effective emergency management program were nevertheless in place and operating throughout the various Department components. We do not agree with this assessment because several of these elements are not adequately operating. Unless a centralized effort is made to verify that the various component parts of the CIP Plan are in place and operating, the Department will have little assurance that it can effectively respond to emergency computer security incidents. Although the CIP Plan contained a comprehensive blueprint and milestones for creating an effective emergency management program by September 1999, such a program was not fully implemented as demonstrated in the following table. Implementation of the Department's Emergency Management Program to Protect Critical Infrastructure IT Systems In evaluating the Department's response capabilities to computer security incidents, we found that many critical elements related to indications and warnings, incident collection, reporting and analysis, and response and contingency planning were neither established nor operating. We agree that other elements are operating, but not adequately for a successful emergency management program. Until the critical elements of an effective emergency management program are in place and operating, the Department will have less than adequate assurance that it can effectively respond to attacks to its critical infrastructure technology systems. We recommend that the Assistant Attorney General for Administration:

Department Critical Infrastructure Protection Implementing Plans to Protect Cyber-Based Infrastructure Report No. 04-05 Office of the Inspector General 2. ESTABLISHING AN EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PROGRAM Although the April 1999 CIP Plan contained a comprehensive blueprint and milestones for an effective, centrally managed Department emergency management program, such a program has not been fully imple

WASHINGTON - The Justice Department filed a lawsuit today against the town of Colorado City, Ariz.; the city of Hildale, Utah; Twin City Water Authority; and Twin City Power alleging a pattern or practice of police misconduct and violations of federal civil rights laws. The complaint alleges discrimination based on religion in violation of the Fair Housing Act, the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act and Title III of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This is the first lawsuit by the Justice Department to include claims under both the Fair Housing Act and the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act. The adjoining towns of Colorado City and Hildale are located on the border of Arizona and Utah and are populated primarily by members of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (FLDS). The FLDS is not affiliated with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona, alleges that defendants discriminated against individuals who are not members of the FLDS by engaging in a pattern or practice of violating the First, Fourth and Fourteenth Amendments to the U.S. Constitution and the Fair Housing Act. The complaint contends that the cities, their joint police department and local utility providers under the cities’ control have allowed the FLDS Church to improperly influence the provision of policing services, utility services and access to housing and public facilities, and that this improper influence has led to discriminatory treatment against non-FLDS residents. Specifically, the complaint alleges that the Colorado City Marshal’s Office (CCMO), the cities’ joint police department, routinely uses its enforcement authority to enforce the edicts and will of the FLDS; fails to protect non-FLDS individuals from victimization by FLDS individuals; refuses to cooperate with other law enforcement agencies’ investigations of FLDS individuals; selectively enforces laws against non-FLDS; and uses its authority to facilitate unlawful evictions of non-FLDS, among other unlawful conduct. The complaint also alleges that Colorado City, Hildale, Twin City Water Authority and Twin City Power have denied or unreasonably delayed providing water and electric service to non-FLDS residents, and that the municipalities refuse to issue building permits and prevent individuals from constructing or occupying existing housing because of the individuals’ religious affiliation. “Religious freedom is a cherished principle of our democracy. City governments and their police departments may not favor one religious group over another and may not discriminate against individuals because of their religious affiliation,” said Thomas E. Perez, Assistant Attorney General for the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “No individual in the United States should be targeted for discriminatory treatment by a city, its officials or the police because of his or her religion.” Both Utah and Arizona have decertified CCMO officers. Three of the officers were decertified because they refused to cooperate with state law enforcement efforts. In addition, the sheriff’s offices in both states have been actively addressing the issues in the communities. The United States’ complaint seeks a court order prohibiting future discrimination by the defendants, monetary damages for those harmed by the defendants’ actions and a civil penalty. This matter was investigated by attorneys from the Housing and Civil Enforcement Section and the Special Litigation Section of the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division. More information about the Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at www.usdoj.gov/crt. If you have any information regarding this matter, please contact the Justice Department at 1-800-896-7743 or email the department at [email protected]. The complaint is an allegation of unlawful conduct. The allegations must still be proved in federal court.

WASHINGTON - The Justice Department filed a lawsuit today against the town of Colorado City, Ariz.; the city of Hildale, Utah; Twin City Water Authority; and Twin City Power alleging a pattern or practice of police misconduct and violations of federal civil rights laws. The complaint alleges discrimination based on religion in violation of the Fair Housing Act, the Violent Crime Control and Law En

Anonymous supporters queuing up to participate in denial-of-service attacks are being tricked into installing ZeuS botnet clients. Hacktivists grabbed what they thought was the Slowloris tool, which is designed to flood websites with open connections and ultimately knock them offline. However, the download included a strain of ZeuS, which promptly installed itself on their Microsoft Windows machines. The Trojan will carry out the distributed attacks, but that's not all it does - it'll also steal users' online banking credentials, webmail logins, and cookies. The deception began on 20 January, the same day as the FBI Megaupload raid, Symantec reports. Read more at: The Guardian UK

Anonymous supporters queuing up to participate in denial-of-service attacks are being tricked into installing ZeuS botnet clients. Hacktivists grabbed what they thought was the Slowloris tool, which is designed to flood websites with open connections and ultimately knock them offline. However, the download included a strain of ZeuS, which promptly installed itself on their Microsoft Windows machin

NASA Issues Statement on New SpaceX Launch Date WASHINGTON -- In response to today's SpaceX announcement finalizing a new target date for the launch of its Falcon 9 rocket and Dragon spacecraft, NASA issued the following statement from William Gerstenmaier, associate administrator for Human Exploration and Operations at the agency's Headquarters in Washington: "After additional reviews and discussions between the SpaceX and NASA teams, we are in a position to proceed toward this important launch. The teamwork provided by these teams is phenomenal. There are a few remaining open items, but we are ready to support SpaceX for its new launch date of May 19." For more information on the flight, visit: http://www.nasa.gov/spacex For more information on the International Space Station, visit: http://www.nasa.gov/station For NASA TV streaming video, scheduling and downlink information, visit: http://www.nasa.gov/ntv - end - text-only version of this release To receive status reports and news releases issued from the Kennedy Space Center Newsroom electronically, send a blank e-mail message to [email protected]. To unsubscribe, send a blank e-mail message to [email protected]. The system will confirm your request via e-mail.

NASA Issues Statement on New SpaceX Launch Date WASHINGTON -- In response to today's SpaceX announcement finalizing a new target date for the launch of its Falcon 9 rocket and Dragon spacecraft, NASA issued the following statement from William Gerstenmaier, associate administrator for Human Exploration and Operations at the agency's Headquarters in Washington: "After additional reviews and discuss

NASA Issues Ares I Upper Stage Production Request for Proposal Beth Dickey/J.D. Harrington| Marshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, Ala. Feb. 23, 2007 WASHINGTON - Friday NASA issued a request for proposal for the Ares I launch vehicle upper stage element. Ares I is the launch vehicle that will transport the Orion crew exploration vehicle and its crew and cargo to low Earth orbit. The upper stage proposals are due to Marshall Space Flight Center no later than 1 p.m. CST April 13, 2007. The request for proposal states the procurement approach for obtaining the upper stage element. The selected contractor will produce the required Ares I upper stage and provide support to a NASA-led design team during the design phase. The contract will provide for the manufacture and assembly of test articles, flight test units, and the operational upper stage elements to support NASA’s flight manifest through 2016. Final manufacturing and assembly will take place at NASA’s Michoud Assembly Facility in Louisiana. The Ares I upper stage, with a separately procured upper stage engine and a separately procured instrument ring, will provide the navigation, guidance, control and propulsion required for the second stage of the Ares I ascent. The first stage will consist of a single reusable solid rocket booster and motor similar to those used on the space shuttle but with a fifth motor segment attached. The contract to manufacture and assemble the Ares I upper stage element will be awarded through a full and open competition and managed by NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Ala. A selection will be made in August 2007. For more information about the draft request for proposal on the Web, visit: For information about NASA’s Ares Projects on the Web, visit: - end - text-only version of this release NASA press releases and other information are available automatically by sending a blank e-mail message to [email protected]. To unsubscribe from this mailing list, send a blank e-mail message to [email protected]. Back to NASA Newsroom | Back to NASA Homepage

NASA Issues Ares I Upper Stage Production Request for Proposal Beth Dickey/J.D. Harrington| Marshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, Ala. Feb. 23, 2007 WASHINGTON - Friday NASA issued a request for proposal for the Ares I launch vehicle upper stage element. Ares I is the launch vehicle that will transport the Orion crew exploration vehicle and its crew and cargo to low Earth orbit. The upper stag

NIH 1998 Almanac/The Organization/NIDA/ National Institute on Drug Abuse: Important Events in NIDA History 1935--A research facility is established in Lexington, Ky., as part of a USPHS hospital. It became the Addiction Research Center in 1948. 1972--Drug Abuse Warning Network and National Household Survey on Drug Abuse were initiated under the Special Action Office for Drug Abuse Prevention. 1974--NIDA was established as part of ADAMHA, as the lead Federal agency for conducting basic, clinical, and epidemiological research to improve the understanding, treatment, and prevention of drug abuse and addiction and the health consequences of these behaviors. NIDA was mandated to carry on the work of the Drug Abuse Warning Network, and National Household Survey on Drug Abuse. The Addiction Research Center in Lexington, Ky., became NIDAs intramural research program. National Drug and Alcohol Treatment Unit Survey begins, to identify the location, scope and characteristics of public and private drug prevention and treatment programs. 1975--The Monitoring the Future Survey, also known as the High School Senior Survey, was initiated to measure prevalence and trends of nonmedical drug use and related attitudes of high school seniors and young adults. NIDA began its "Research Monograph Series," which is its primary vehicle for disseminating the newest scientific information in the drug abuse field. Each monograph contains scientific papers that discuss a variety of subjects including drug abuse treatment and prevention research. 1976--NIDA begins the Community Epidem-iology Work Group, made up of state and local representatives meeting semiannually with NIDA staff to assess recent drug abuse trends and to identify populations at risk. 1979--The clinical research program moves from Lexington, Ky., to the campus of the Francis Scott Key Medical Center (later Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center) in Baltimore, Md. The basic science program follows in 1985. NIDA sponsors the Treatment Outcome Prospective Study (TOPS), which continued through 1987 to evaluate the overall effectiveness of treatment and to identify certain factors as important determinants of drug abuse treatment success, such as length of time 1984--NIDA funds an evaluation of the Midwestern Prevention Project, a comprehensive program involving schools, parents, media, community, and policy makers in drug prevention and education. 1985--NIDA publishes the first issue of its bimonthly newsletter, NIDA Notes. 1986--NIDAs Drug Abuse Information and Treatment Referral Hotline is NIDA becomes the lead agency to carry out the Drug Free Federal Workplace Program, as mandated by presidential order. 1987--NIDA initiates the National AIDS Demonstration Research projects to study and change the high-risk behaviors of injection drug users not enrolled in drug treatment and their sex partners. 1990--NIDA established the Medications Development Division, focusing on developing new medications for enhancing options and effectiveness of drug abuse treatment. 1991--The Monitoring the Future Survey, also called the High School Senior Survey, is expanded to include 8th and 10th graders. NIDA begins data collection for the Drug Abuse Treatment Outcome Study (the successor to TOPS) to assess the effectiveness of treatment in reducing drug abuse and to identify predictors of drug abuse treatment success. NIDA holds its first research technology transfer conference in Washington, D.C.: "National Conference on Drug Abuse Research and Practice: An Alliance for the 21st 1992--NIDA is transferred to NIH from ADAMHA, which is reorganized. 1993--NIDA holds its second research technology transfer conference in Washington, D.C., on Drug Abuse Research and Practice: An Alliance for the 21st Century. The institute obtained FDA approval for LAAM, the first medication approved in a decade for the treatment of opioid addiction. 1995--NIDA designated the development of a cocaine treatment medication as one of its top priorities. The institute held the first "National Conference on Marijuana Use: Prevention, Treatment, and Research" in Arlington, Va. 1996--NIDA dedicated the Regional Brain Imaging Center located at the institute's intramural research center in Baltimore. 1997--The institute sponsored "Heroin Use and Addiction: A National Conference on Prevention, Treatment and Research," in Washington, D.C. NIDA released Preventing Drug Use Among Children and Adolescents: A Research-based Guide, which described the most successful concepts for treating people with drug abuse and addiction problems.

NIH 1998 Almanac/The Organization/NIDA/ National Institute on Drug Abuse: Important Events in NIDA History 1935--A research facility is established in Lexington, Ky., as part of a USPHS hospital. It became the Addiction Research Center in 1948. 1972--Drug Abuse Warning Network and National Household Survey on Drug Abuse were initiated under the Special Action Office for Drug Abuse Prevention. 1974

Release Date: September 25, 2012 Contacts: Jane Cowley, e-mail us, 215-597-0060 On October 6, 2012, to honor the 235th anniversary of the Battle of Germantown, Independence National Historical Park will offer special tours of the Germantown White House (Deshler Morris House) focusing on the two Generals, British and American, who once stayed in this house. At 11 a.m., noon, 1 p.m., and 2 p.m., visitors are invited to join this free program to learn more about British General William Howe, General George Washington and the Battle of Germantown. The British Army under Lt. General William Howe took Philadelphia on September 26, 1777, forcing the Continental Army out of the city. After defeating General Washington in the Battle of Germantown on October 4, 1777, Howe moved into the house we now call the Germantown White House and kept his headquarters there until October 19. Years later, President Washington twice took shelter in the House, finding refuge during the 1793 Yellow Fever epidemic and using it as a summer retreat for his family the following year. Operated by Independence National Historical Park, the Germantown White House (Deshler Morris House) is open from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays during most of the year. For more information visit http://www.nps.gov/demo. A unit of the National Park Service, Independence National Historical Park was created by an Act of Congress on June 28, 1948. Accredited by the American Association of Museums, Independence NHP covers almost 54 acres and includes Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell and other historic buildings associated with the founding of the United States. For more information visit the park's website, http://www.nps.gov/inde, or follow us @independencenhp.

Release Date: September 25, 2012 Contacts: Jane Cowley, e-mail us, 215-597-0060 On October 6, 2012, to honor the 235th anniversary of the Battle of Germantown, Independence National Historical Park will offer special tours of the Germantown White House (Deshler Morris House) focusing on the two Generals, British and American, who once stayed in this house. At 11 a.m., noon, 1 p.m., and 2 p.m., vis

Lindsey D. Donaldson Center for Watershed Stewardship The Cedar Creek and Belle Grove National Historical Park (CEBE) was created on December 19, 2002 and encompasses approximately 3,500 acres. Located in Warren, Shenandoah, and Frederick counties in Virginia, CEBE is situated between Strasburg and Middletown, Virginia (Figure 1). The elevations of CEBE range between 500 and 700 feet (Figures 2, 3, and 4) (Topozone 1994-1999). This report is a compilation and synthesis of natural resource information including geology, soil, water quality and quantity, wetlands, vegetation, wildlife, sensitive species, air quality, viewsheds, lightscapes, and soundscapes. Most analysis was based on a CEBE boundary digitized using ArcMap 8.3, 1997 aerial photographs, and an initial map provided by the National Park Service (NPS). A more accurate boundary is currently being developed but should result in little change to this natural resource information. Aerial photographs taken in 2002 were provided by the Virginia Base Mapping Program recently but too late to be incorporated into this report. The entire report is available to view or download in PDF file format. Using PDF files requires the free Adobe Acrobat Reader. If you do not already have it installed on your computer, you may download it now. Download Reader. To download a pdf file, click on this icon in the toolbar of the pdf window: . This will allow you to save the file on your computer. If you want to copy or print only a small part of the saved file, click on this icon to select the desired text: . The file for this report is large, therefore it has been divided into several pdf files. Click on a file to open it.

Lindsey D. Donaldson Center for Watershed Stewardship The Cedar Creek and Belle Grove National Historical Park (CEBE) was created on December 19, 2002 and encompasses approximately 3,500 acres. Located in Warren, Shenandoah, and Frederick counties in Virginia, CEBE is situated between Strasburg and Middletown, Virginia (Figure 1). The elevations of CEBE range between 500 and 700 feet (Figures 2, 3

The scattered distribution and smaller size of some of the units complicates the park's management efforts. Often the scope of an environmental factor extends well beyond park boundaries making it difficult to respond effectively to any issue that may develop. An excellent example of this is the water quality in the parks many streams and creeks. The park tests water quality across many sites, however, the results are closely tied to upstream conditions which are often not under the park's control. The invasive species management program faces similar obstacles in controlling the spread of species such as Japanese honeysuckle and Oriental bittersweet. These species' seed sources are often on adjacent lands, creating a challenge for long term control. Some management issues occur wholly within park boundaries, but are controlled primarily by environmental constraints. For example, erosion is of great concern along the parks many miles of historic earthworks. The long, steep slopes and infertile soils inherent to many of the park's earthworks combine to magnify their vulnerability to erosion. Native grass plantings as well as various other ground cover treatments are currently being employed to help prevent the degradation of these cultural resources. As with water quality and invasive species, the sources of many environmental issues are often beyond the control of the park. In response, Richmond National Battlefield employs a program of active monitoring and management which has become an important tool in minimizing negative environmental effects within the park. Did You Know? Between 1861 and 1865 Chimborazo Hospital treated approximately 75,000 patients, more than any other facility in either the North or South.

The scattered distribution and smaller size of some of the units complicates the park's management efforts. Often the scope of an environmental factor extends well beyond park boundaries making it difficult to respond effectively to any issue that may develop. An excellent example of this is the water quality in the parks many streams and creeks. The park tests water quality across many sites, how

Press Release 11-233 Diversity of Life on Earth: NSF Awards Grants for Study of Dimensions of Biodiversity Earth losing species more rapidly than scientists can understand the roles they play October 26, 2011 Earth is losing species more rapidly than scientists can understand the roles these species play and how they function. With this loss comes, biologists believe, lost opportunities to understand the history of life, to better predict the future of the living world and to make beneficial discoveries in the areas of food, fiber, fuel, pharmaceuticals and bio-inspired innovation. To characterize the lesser-known aspects of the diversity of life on Earth, the National Science Foundation (NSF) is now in the second year of its decade-long Dimensions of Biodiversity campaign. The effort, funded by NSF's Directorate for Biological Sciences along with its Directorate for Geosciences and Office of Polar Programs, aims to transform, by 2020, how scientists describe and understand the scope and role of life on Earth. NSF recently awarded grants for 11 new Dimensions of Biodiversity projects that total approximately $19 million. This includes a new International Research Coordination Network, bringing the entire number of active Dimensions of Biodiversity projects to 27. "By establishing networks of interdisciplinary, globally-engaged scientists, Dimensions of Biodiversity will have a lasting effect on biodiversity science," says John Wingfield, NSF Assistant Director for Biological Sciences. "It has the potential to transform the way we conduct biological research in this arena." The Dimensions of Biodiversity campaign is important, says Wingfield, because assessing the living diversity of Earth is not as straightforward as simply listing species. There are more than 450,000 beetle species on the planet, for example, but only 270 or so species of cat- or dog-like carnivores. The domestic dog, on the other hand, is just one sub-species of carnivore, but includes hundreds of artificially selected breeds and varieties spanning a range of sizes, shapes and temperaments. Species (beetles) and genetic (dog breed) variation represent just two types of biodiversity. There's also diversity in the evolutionary history of groups of species; the ecological links among them; their functions; and the benefits they provide humans, among others. All species rely on a vast network of mostly invisible and largely unknown life forms, such as bacteria and fungi. As a result, most aspects of Earth's biodiversity still remain unknown. Characterizing these dimensions of biodiversity and how they interact is increasingly important given the pace of global change. Addressing the knowledge gaps in understanding biodiversity, scientists say, will require new thinking and a coordinated effort among several sub-disciplines of biology. An important distinction of the Dimensions of Biodiversity initiative is the simultaneous investigation of the links and feedbacks between genetic, phylogenetic, taxonomic and functional dimensions of biodiversity, says Joann Roskoski, NSF deputy assistant director for Biological Sciences. Roskoski says that the innovative and interdisciplinary teams of the Dimensions of Biodiversity campaign "may accomplish in 10 years what, with a piecemeal approach, would have taken 50 years--a half-century we can no longer afford to wait." The Dimensions of Biodiversity campaign is developing the workforce and partnerships necessary for the unique human- and cyber-infrastructure challenges of an interdisciplinary network of researchers. Dimensions currently has partnerships with NASA and funding agencies in China and Brazil. NASA is co-funding projects that use remote sensing technologies to expand biodiversity investigations across broad spatial scales. International partnerships are supporting the exchange of students and scientists, joint research projects, and the digitization of biological collections. Dimensions is also using a distributed graduate seminar to assess what is currently known about the taxonomic, phylogenetic, genetic and functional dimensions of biodiversity. This baseline assessment will be available to the broader scientific community to help evaluate and direct the Dimensions of Biodiversity campaign. 2011 NSF DIMENSIONS OF BIODIVERSITY AWARDS Title: Pattern and process in marine bacterial, archaeal, and protistan biodiversity, and effects of human impacts PI (Principal investigator): Jed Fuhrman, University of Southern California Summary: Very little about marine microbial systems is understood, despite the fact that these diverse groups dominate cycling of elements in the oceans. Fuhrman and colleagues will compare heavily affected harbor regions with relatively pristine ocean habitat in the Los Angeles basin to understand patterns and relationships in marine microbial communities. Title: Coexistence, herbivore host choice, and plant-herbivore evolution in the recently radiated and speciose Neotropical tree genus, Inga PI: Thomas Kursar, University of Utah Summary: More than half the known species in tropical forests are plants and the insects that feed on them. This project will study interactions between members of the tree genus Inga (with more than 300 species) and its insect herbivores at five sites in Central and South America. The work will shed light on the co-evolution of plants and herbivores, and its influence on the ecology of some of the most diverse forest communities on Earth. Title: Integrating dimensions of Solanum biodiversity: Leveraging comparative and experimental transcriptomics to understand functional responses to environmental change PI: Leonie Moyle, Indiana University Summary: This research will highlight the role of drought and herbivore defense in driving the remarkable diversity of wild tomato species. With the economic importance of tomatoes and their relatives (such as peppers and potatoes), this study will help prepare society for the future challenges facing global food security. Title: Diversity and symbiosis: Examining the taxonomic, genetic, and functional diversity of amphibian skin microbiota PI: Lisa Belden, Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University Summary: All animals host internal and external symbiotic microbes; most cause no harm and many are beneficial. This study seeks to understand the regulation of microbial communities on the skin of amphibian species, and how they may limit infection by a chytrid fungus that has decimated many amphibian populations around the globe. Title: Integrating genetic, taxonomic, and functional diversity of tetrapods across the Americas and through extinction risk PI: Thomas Brooks, NatureServe Summary: Most large-scale efforts to assess biodiversity have focused on genetic, taxonomic and functional dimensions individually; it is unknown how these dimensions relate to each other. Brooks and colleagues are using a database of the 13,000 land vertebrates in the Americas to determine how changes in one dimension of biodiversity influence changes in others. Understanding how species composition influences the diversity of certain traits, for example, will improve the efficiency and effectiveness of conservation actions. Title: Lake Baikal responses to global change: The role of genetic, functional and taxonomic diversity in the plankton PI: Elena Litchman, Michigan State University Summary: Microscopic plant- and animal-like plankton are the first links in aquatic food chains. This project will study the planktonic food web of the world's largest, oldest, and most biologically diverse lake--Lake Baikal in Siberia--to predict how native vs. non-native plankton in this ecosystem will respond to accelerating environmental change. Title: Functional diversity of microbial trophic guilds defined using stable isotope ratios of proteins PI: Ann Pearson, Harvard University Summary: Studying the ecological interactions among microbes is difficult given their immense diversity and the scale of observation. This project will use isotopic ratios of carbon, nitrogen, hydrogen and sulfur produced during microbial metabolism to link microbes to their roles in biogeochemical and ecosystem processes. This novel approach will contribute to an understanding of what maintains diversity in microbes and, by extension, the roles microbes play in ecosystems. Title: The climate cascade: Functional and evolutionary consequences of climatic change on species, trait, and genetic diversity in a temperate ant community PI: Nathan Sanders, University of Tennessee, Knoxville Summary: Sanders and colleagues will help us understand what mechanisms allow some species to adapt to shifts in climate, rather than migrating or going extinct. This project will reconstruct past adaptations to climate change in a foraging ant common in forests throughout the Eastern United States and sample ant nests introduced to outdoor experimental warming chambers to determine the ant's capacity to adapt to heat stress. Title: An integrated study of energy metabolism, carbon fixation, and colonization mechanisms in chemosynthetic microbial communities at deep-sea vents PI: Stefan Sievert, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Summary: The 1977 discovery of deep-sea hydrothermal vent ecosystems that obtain energy not through photosynthesis, but via inorganic chemical reactions greatly expanded the perception of life on Earth. However, there has been limited progress since then in understanding their underlying microbiology and biogeochemistry. This project will establish an international research program to better understand these deep-sea ecosystems and to place them in a global context. Title: Functional diversity of marine eukaryotic phytoplankton and their contributions to carbon and nitrogen cycling PI: Bess Ward, Princeton University Summary: Marine phytoplankton form the base of food webs in the ocean's surface layers, and thus represent the first incorporation of biologically important chemicals. This project will study two north Atlantic sites in two seasons to link the genetic diversity and species composition of phytoplankton communities to the carbon and nitrogen biogeochemistry of the surface ocean. Title: IRCN (International Research Coordination Network): A Research Coordination Network for Biodiversity of Ciliates PI: John Clamp, North Carolina Central University Summary: Ciliates are abundant, widespread protists found in all aquatic systems on Earth. However, it is estimated that science has described only 25 percent of these ubiquitous microorganisms, mainly in western European and eastern North American waters. This cooperative project is partially supported by the Natural Science Foundation of China, and will establish an International Research Coordination Network for Biodiversity of Ciliates (RCN-BC; including researchers from the United States, China, the United Kingdom and Brazil) to broaden exploration of these important protists. Cheryl Dybas, NSF (703) 292-7734 [email protected] NSF Science, Engineering, and Education for Sustainability: http://www.nsf.gov/funding/pgm_summ.jsp?pims_id=504707 NSF News Release: 2010 Dimensions of Biodiversity Awards: http://www.nsf.gov/news/news_summ.jsp?cntn_id=117811 The National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent federal agency that supports fundamental research and education across all fields of science and engineering. In fiscal year (FY) 2012, its budget was $7.0 billion. NSF funds reach all 50 states through grants to nearly 2,000 colleges, universities and other institutions. Each year, NSF receives about 50,000 competitive requests for funding, and makes about 11,500 new funding awards. NSF also awards about $593 million in professional and service contracts yearly. Get News Updates by Email Useful NSF Web Sites: NSF Home Page: http://www.nsf.gov NSF News: http://www.nsf.gov/news/ For the News Media: http://www.nsf.gov/news/newsroom.jsp Science and Engineering Statistics: http://www.nsf.gov/statistics/ Awards Searches: http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/

Press Release 11-233 Diversity of Life on Earth: NSF Awards Grants for Study of Dimensions of Biodiversity Earth losing species more rapidly than scientists can understand the roles they play October 26, 2011 Earth is losing species more rapidly than scientists can understand the roles these species play and how they function. With this loss comes, biologists believe, lost opportunities to underst

Driver & Traffic Safety Education Tools A virtual workbook aimed at providing the parents and guardians of young drivers information necessary to keep their teen drivers safe is now available on the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles Resources for the Younger Driver Website entitled “The Parent’s Guide to Teen Driving”. Driver Education programs are encouraged to use this guide as a method of engaging parents in their coursework. These videos focus on topics including speed, distracted driving, inexperience and the use of seat belts. These videos were made available by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles and are free to use. Instructional Hours Calculator (28 KB) This tool will assist you when filling out Section III on forms DE-1 or DE-1A. This document lists the minimum required components that contracts between approved programs and commercial driving schools must address. A syllabus prepared by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles. Traffic Safety Education Guide (5.66 MB) This curricular support guide was published in 1989. Although it may be outdated, the contents may still serve as a valuable resourse for NYS-DTSE teachers wishing to develop program materials at a local level.

Driver & Traffic Safety Education Tools A virtual workbook aimed at providing the parents and guardians of young drivers information necessary to keep their teen drivers safe is now available on the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles Resources for the Younger Driver Website entitled “The Parent’s Guide to Teen Driving”. Driver Education programs are encouraged to use this guide as a metho

is the structure of the AHTN? AHTN is comprised of the (1) General Rules for the interpretation of the System, (2) Section and Chapter Notes, including Subheading Notes, and (3) a list of headings arranged in systematic order and, where appropriate, subdivided into to the 6-digit level of the HS, the seventh and eighth digit codes are assigned to ASEAN subheadings that comprise about 10,800 tariff lines. These would cover the requirements of the ten ASEAN Member States. national classifications of Member States that were not included in the AHTN shall be dealt with beyond the 8-digit code. Furthermore, the AHTN already incorporates the HS 2002 amendments. What are the uses of the AHTN? a uniform tariff nomenclature a base for preferential tariff purposes in AFTA 4. What are the advantages of the AHTN? establishes uniformity of application in the classification of goods in ASEAN enhances transparency in the classification process for goods in the region simplifies the tariff nomenclature system of ASEAN Member States to facilitate trade in the region When will the government implement the AHTN and what is the legal basis? Tariff Commission is mandated by Executive Order No. 688 dated 01 May 1981 to align the Philippine Tariff Nomenclature with all future amendments to the Customs Cooperation Council Nomenclature. Subsequently, a NEDA Board Resolution and/or an Executive Order will be issued upon the completion of the required procedures to adopt the AHTN. the Philippines is bound by Article 4 of the ASEAN Agreement on Customs dated 01 March 1997 and the AHTN protocol to be signed by the Member States within 2002. Philippines is scheduled to implement the adoption of the AHTN by 01 January 2003. 6. What is the

is the structure of the AHTN? AHTN is comprised of the (1) General Rules for the interpretation of the System, (2) Section and Chapter Notes, including Subheading Notes, and (3) a list of headings arranged in systematic order and, where appropriate, subdivided into to the 6-digit level of the HS, the seventh and eighth digit codes are assigned to ASEAN subheadings that comprise about 10,800 tariff

About half the national exposure to benzene comes from exposure to cigarette smoke. What is benzene? Benzene, also known as benzol, is a colorless liquid with a sweet odor and can be described as a volatile organic compound. The chemical symbol for benzene is C6H6. How might I be exposed to benzene? Benzene is formed from both natural processes and human activities. It is produced from volcanoes and forest fires and is a natural part of crude oil, gasoline, and cigarette smoke. Diesel exhaust contains benzene. Benzene is one of the 20 most widely used chemicals in the United States. It is used to make other chemicals that are then used to make plastics, resins, nylon, and other synthetic fibers. It is used to make explosives, photographic chemicals, rubber, lubricants, dyes, adhesives, coatings, paint, detergents, drugs, and pesticides. It is used in printing, lithography, and food processing, and has been used as a solvent. It has been used as a gasoline additive in the past, but that use has been greatly reduced in the United States since the 1990s. The largest industrial use of toluene is in the production of benzene. Benzene is found in the air, water, and soil. You can be exposed to small amounts of benzene outdoors, where the air can contain low levels from tobacco smoke, automotive service stations, vehicle exhaust, and industrial emissions. You can be exposed to higher levels of benzene near gas stations, hazardous waste sites, or industrial facilities. How can benzene affect my health? You can be exposed to benzene indoors at home, where the air can contain higher levels of benzene than outdoor air, from products such as glue, paint, furniture wax, and detergent. Approximately half the national exposure to benzene comes from smoking cigarettes or being exposed to cigarette smoke, indoors or outdoors. You can be exposed to benzene by drinking or using well water that has been contaminated by leaking underground gasoline storage tanks or hazardous waste sites, though those levels are usually less than those from industrial facilities and smoking cigarettes. You can be exposed to higher than normal levels of benzene at work if you work at a facility that makes or uses benzene, including petroleum refining sites, pharmaceutical plants, petrochemical manufacturing facilities, rubber tire manufacturing facilities, or gas stations. You may be exposed if you are a steel worker, printer, shoemaker, laboratory technician, or firefighter. Benzene is listed as a human carcinogen in the Twelfth Report on Carcinogens published by the National Toxicology Program because it has been known to cause cancer. Long-term exposure to high levels of benzene can cause leukemia. Breathing very high levels of benzene, or eating or drinking foods contaminated with high levels of benzene, can cause death. Eating or drinking foods contaminated with high levels of benzene can also cause vomiting and stomach irritation. Small amounts of benzene, which are not harmful, can be found in fruit, fish, vegetables, nuts, dairy products, beverages, and eggs. Short-term exposure to high levels of benzene by breathing or eating affects the central nervous system, and can cause paralysis, coma, convulsions, dizziness, sleepiness, rapid heart rate, tightness of the chest, tremors, and rapid breathing. If you work at a facility that uses benzene, breathing high levels of benzene can cause irreversible brain damage, unconsciousness, cardiac arrest, blurred vision, headaches, tremors, confusion, and fatigue. In women, it can shrink ovaries and cause menstrual irregularity. Spilling benzene on your skin can cause redness, sores, scaling, and drying of the skin. If benzene contacts the eyes, it can cause irritation and damage to the cornea. Long-term exposure to benzene can decrease red blood cells, leading to anemia. It can also cause excessive bleeding and affect the immune system, increasing the chance of infection. If you think you have been exposed to benzene, contact your health care professional. For poisoning emergencies or questions about possible poisons, please contact your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. This description is based on the information found in the Web links listed with this topic. Basic Information about Benzene in Drinking Water (Environmental Protection Agency) Benzene (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) Benzene. Haz-Map (National Library of Medicine) Benzene. Hazardous Substances Data Bank (National Library of Medicine) Benzene. ToxFAQs (Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry) Map of Releases of Benzene in the United States. TOXMAP (National Library of Medicine) ToxGuide for Benzene (Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry) (PDF — 127 KB) What Is Benzene? (Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center) (PDF — 84 KB) Last Updated: January 30, 2013

About half the national exposure to benzene comes from exposure to cigarette smoke. What is benzene? Benzene, also known as benzol, is a colorless liquid with a sweet odor and can be described as a volatile organic compound. The chemical symbol for benzene is C6H6. How might I be exposed to benzene? Benzene is formed from both natural processes and human activities. It is produced from volcanoes a

Rift Valley Fever in Kenya, Somalia and the United Republic of Tanzania 9 May 2007 United Republic of Tanzania From 13 January to 3rd May 2007, a total of 264 cases including 109 deaths (case-fatality ratio, 41%) of Rift Valley Fever (RVF) was reported in Tanzania. Rift Valley Fever (RVF) was reported in 10 out of the 21 regions of Tanzania: 12 cases were reported in Arusha region, 1 in Dar es Salaam, 156 in Dodoma, 4 in Iringa, 6 in Manyara, 50 in Morogoro, 5 in Mwanza, 5 in the Pwani, 24 in Singida, and 1 in Tanga regions. Only severe cases of RVF were detected through surveillance and of the 264 cases, 154 (60%) were laboratory confirmed. The surveillance of RVF organized through the Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response (IDSR) program has been in place in Tanzania for several years. To investigate this outbreak a WHO team from the Department of Epidemic and Pandemic Alert and Response and the Regional Office for Africa has been assisting the WHO Country Office in the assessment of the outbreak and in refining the health component of the Tanzania Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (TMOHSW) and the Tanzania Ministry of Livestock Development (TMOLD) emergency response plan, including the early warning system, active case detection, case management and social mobilization. A national investigation team conducted several field visits in the affected region to help with enhancement of surveillance, in-depth case investigations and active surveillance activities. The team also provided training in patient care for clinical staff and in safe sample collection and shipment for laboratory staff. The response to the outbreak was jointly organized by the Tanzania Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (TMOHSW) and the Tanzania Ministry of Livestock Development (TMOLD) in collaboration with the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, WHO and FAO. The United Nations Emergency Coordination Group of UNDP, WHO, FAO, UNICEF and WFP have also outlined response plans in support of the Government strategy. These programmes include animal and human health interventions as well as sensitization and awareness campaigns at community level and among health care professions. From 30 November 2006 to 12 March 2007, a total of 684 cases including 155 deaths (case-fatality ratio, 23%) of RVF was reported in Kenya. Where all 333 cases were reported in North Eastern Province, 183 in Rift Valley Province, 141 in the Coast Province, 14 in Central Province, and 13 in the Eastern Province. Of the 684 reported cases, 234 (34%) were laboratory confirmed. From 19 December 2006 to 20 February 2007, a total of 114 cases including 51 deaths (case-fatality ratio, 45%) of Rift Valley Fever were reported in Somalia. Seventy-three cases were reported in Lower Juba region, 26 in Gedo region, 7 cases in Hiran region, 2 cases in Middle Juba region, 4 cases in Middle Shabelle region, and 1 case in Lower Shabelle region. Of the 114 reported cases, 3 (3%) were laboratory confirmed. During the outbreak response, the difficult security situation has continuously hampered surveillance and control activities in the affected areas.

Rift Valley Fever in Kenya, Somalia and the United Republic of Tanzania 9 May 2007 United Republic of Tanzania From 13 January to 3rd May 2007, a total of 264 cases including 109 deaths (case-fatality ratio, 41%) of Rift Valley Fever (RVF) was reported in Tanzania. Rift Valley Fever (RVF) was reported in 10 out of the 21 regions of Tanzania: 12 cases were reported in Arusha region, 1 in Dar es Sal

Guidelines for implementation of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control Article 7 of the Convention requests the Conference of the Parties (COP) to propose guidelines for the implementation of the Convention. Guidelines cover a wide range of provisions of the Convention and aim to assist Parties in meeting their obligations under the Convention. The guidelines which are developed through a wide consultative and intergovernmental process established by the COP are acknowledged by the Parties as a valuable tool in the implementation of the Convention. Seven guidelines have been adopted so far by the COP covering provisions of 8 Articles of the Convention: Articles 5.3, 8, 9 and 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14. Work on additional guidelines is still in progress through working groups established by the COP.

Guidelines for implementation of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control Article 7 of the Convention requests the Conference of the Parties (COP) to propose guidelines for the implementation of the Convention. Guidelines cover a wide range of provisions of the Convention and aim to assist Parties in meeting their obligations under the Convention. The guidelines which are developed through

More than 30 million employees are regularly exposed to hazardous occupational noise in the United States each year. The National Safety Council reports that approximately one-third of these people eventually develop a permanent hearing loss. Drillers and their helpers who work around drill rigs are certainly among those who are subjected to excessive workplace noise. The harmful effects of this exposure can be reduced or eliminated through engineering and administrative noise controls and educating workers about the hazards of noise and the consequences of overexposure. It is reasoned that more informed workers will follow effective practices known to protect one's hearing, e.g., they may be inclined to wear hearing protection regularly. However, studies show that the use of hearing protection by workers has been disappointing. Why are hearing protection usage rates so low? One explanation is that some workers regard loud noise as a nuisance rather than an as occupational health and safety hazard. They expect their workplace to be loud and therefore accept noise as a part of the job over which they have no control. As a result, they neglect using proven measures, such as hearing protection, which can protect their hearing. In addition to this lack of concern for noise in the workplace, other reasons why workers do not wear hearing protection regularly, or perhaps wear it improperly, include poor education, awareness, and training. The improper use of hearing protection may cause workers to remain in a high-noise area for an extended period of time, thinking they are protected. But in fact they are not. One way to eliminate worker indifference and improve drillers' understanding of noise hazards is to educate them about noise, hearing loss, and hearing protection. To accomplish this, NIOSH has developed two training exercises. The first is an invisible ink exercise called "Drill Rig Incident"; the second is a 3-D slide reel training aid called "Wearing Hearing Protection Properly." The first was developed as an instructor-led training exercise for use with small groups of workers. The second was developed as a training aid that can be used with or without and instructor. This article briefly reviews the development and evaluation of both training exercises and shows examples from each. Field data are presented that show how the exercises are effective for teaching drillers and others who work at drill sites about the hazards of noise and the benefits of wearing hearing protection. NIOSH, Pittsburgh Research Laboratory, P.O. Box 18070, Pittsburgh, PA 15236

More than 30 million employees are regularly exposed to hazardous occupational noise in the United States each year. The National Safety Council reports that approximately one-third of these people eventually develop a permanent hearing loss. Drillers and their helpers who work around drill rigs are certainly among those who are subjected to excessive workplace noise. The harmful effects of this e

Hampshire Placenames and their Meanings Why is Hampshire sometimes called Hants? "Hampshire" is often abbreviated in written form to "Hants" and which sometimes gives rise to puzzlement. The abbreviated form is derived from the Old English Hantum plus Scir (meaning a district governed from the settlement now known as Southampton) and the Anglo-Saxons called it Hamtunschire. At the time of the Domesday Book (1086) this was compressed to Hantescire. In the placenames of Hampshire can be read a great deal of history. The names of places can reflect landscape features, ancient customs, agricultural practices and of course local trade and industry. A name may refer to the size of a place or its geographic location or perhaps a local land-owning family. This page identifies some of the principal placenames in Hampshire together with their origins and meanings. Where a place was recorded at the time of the Domesday Survey in 1086, the code "DB" has been added, and the earliest recorded spelling of the place is highlighted by italics. - Aldershot - Halreshet 1171. "Projecting piece of land where alders grow". - Alresford - Alresforda 701, Alresforde 1086 (DB). "Alder-tree ford" - Alton - Aultone DB. "Farmstead at the source of a river." - Andover - Anderferas 955, Andovere DB. "(Place by) the ash-tree waters". - Basingstoke - Basingastoc 990, Basingestoches DB. "Secondary settlement or outlying farmstead of the family or followers of a man called "Basa"". - Bishop's Waltham - Waltham DB. "Homestead or village in a forest". Affix from its early possession by the Bishop of Winchester. - Brockenhurst - Broceste DB. "wooded hill of a man called "Broca"". Alternatively the first element could be from Old English brocen "broken up, undulating". - Eastleigh - East lea 932. "East wood or clearing". - Emsworth - Emeleswurth 1224. "Enclosure of a man called Æmele" - Fareham - Fearnham 970. "Homestead where ferns grow." - Farnborough - Ferneberga DB. "Hill(s) or mound(s) growing with ferns". - Fleet - Flete 1313. "(place at) the stream, pool or creek". - Fordingbridge - Fordingebrige DB. "Bridge of the people living by the ford". - Gosport - Goseport 1250. "Market town where geese are sold." - Havant - Hamanfuntan 935. "Spring of a man called Hama". - Hayling Island - Heglingaigæ 956. "Island of the family or followers of a man called Hægel". - Liphook Leophok 1364. Probably "angle of land by the deer-leap or steep slope". - Liss - Lis DB. "A court, chief house in a district". - Lymington -.Lentune DB. Probably "farmstead on a river called Limen." - Lyndhurst -.Linhest DB. "Wooded hill growing with lime trees". - Petersfield - Peteresfield 1182. Probably "(settlement at) the open land with a church dedicated to St Peter". - Portsmouth - Portesmuthan (late 9th century). "Mouth of the harbour". - Romsey - Rummæsig 970. "Island, or dry ground in marsh, of a man called Rum". - Southsea Southsea Castle c1600. Self-explanatory. The present place grew up around the castle built by Henry VIII in 1540. - Southampton - Suthamtunam 962, Hantone DB. "Estate on a promontory". See also origins of Hampshire. - Stockbridge - Stocbrugge 1221. "Bridge made of logs". - Waterlooville Named in 1815 to commemorate the Battle of Waterloo. - Whitchurch - Hwitancyrce 909. "White church", that is, probably "stone-built church". - Winchester - Ouenta c150, Uintancæstir c730, Wincestre DB. "Roman town called Venta." - Yateley - Yatele 1248. "Woodland clearing with or near a gate or gap."

Hampshire Placenames and their Meanings Why is Hampshire sometimes called Hants? "Hampshire" is often abbreviated in written form to "Hants" and which sometimes gives rise to puzzlement. The abbreviated form is derived from the Old English Hantum plus Scir (meaning a district governed from the settlement now known as Southampton) and the Anglo-Saxons called it Hamtunschire. At the time of the Dome

National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutatns for Source Categories: Aerospace Manufacturing and Rework--Background Information for Proposed Standards, Draft EIS. A rule is being proposed for the regulation of emissions of hazardous air pollutants (HAP) from aerospace manufacturing and rework processes under the authority of Sections 112, 114, 116 and 301 of the Clean Air Act, as amended in 1990. This document presents the background data and information that supports the proposed regulation. |Air pollution; Pollution control; Aerospace; Hazardous air pollutant; National impacts| |Office of Air and Radiation| |Emission Standards Division| |Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards| |Jordan, Bruce C.| |Background Cost-Related Document|

National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutatns for Source Categories: Aerospace Manufacturing and Rework--Background Information for Proposed Standards, Draft EIS. A rule is being proposed for the regulation of emissions of hazardous air pollutants (HAP) from aerospace manufacturing and rework processes under the authority of Sections 112, 114, 116 and 301 of the Clean Air Act, as amende

Dr Ashwini Kumar, India The availability of harmonized quality specifications of drugs through pharmacopoeias is central to all drug regulatory authorities for the access to safe, efficacious and quality medicines. There are some new drugs that are internationally traded and included in the WHO Essential Drugs Lists, but for which there are no readily available pharmacopoeial specifications. A meeting was arranged during the 10th ICDRA, with participants from Brazil, China, Czech Republic, India, Russian Federation, Thailand and Zimbabwe, and telephone links to the European Pharmacopoeia and the United States Pharmacopeia, to discuss the development of pharmaceutical specifications for new drug entities. Efforts are needed to encourage international harmonization in the development of common specifications and international reference standards, with a special focus on new drug entities and drugs with major health impact, and the development of screening tests to help combat counterfeit drugs. It was agreed that the topic of pharmacopoeial requirements should be proposed for inclusion in the next ICDRA. Role of drug regulatory authorities

Dr Ashwini Kumar, India The availability of harmonized quality specifications of drugs through pharmacopoeias is central to all drug regulatory authorities for the access to safe, efficacious and quality medicines. There are some new drugs that are internationally traded and included in the WHO Essential Drugs Lists, but for which there are no readily available pharmacopoeial specifications. A mee

|Posted on May 04, 2009 09:59:12 AM | Angela Storey | 2 Comments || Ralf Heckel, advisor for Team Germany, shared these thoughts with us as he winged his way back home to the German Space Education Institute in Leipzig. Can't wait to have your racers back next year, Ralf! Delta Comair flight from Huntsville to Atlanta, 04/10/2009 12 a.m. The small plane has reached its travel altitude of nearly 10,000 feet. We float in the midst of white mountains of clouds. Weirdly, they form gigantic summits, sloping bridges and deep valleys beside, behind and in front of us. Below, there is the fresh green country with the pink blossoming trees. Lakes sparkle. It is spring in Alabama. The sun shines brightly on the giants of cotton. The pilot often changes direction and height. He seems to fly around the clouds. I feel like a fly in a gigantic white cotton field. And I am exactly above that scene. Cotton was the main source of income here for many years. A small steam railway brought millions of fleecy white bales from the fields to the Tennessee River where workers packed them in small wheezing steamboats and navigated to cotton mills along the river. Then the bales were loaded into huge steamboats with gigantic red paddlewheels and were brought downstream from Mississippi to New Orleans. That’s all been over for 50 years now. Only the culture of thousands upon thousands of agricultural laborers and their traders remained. In the evening they played their own music -- a mixture of blues from the South and the mostly Scottish folklore of the north. They formed their traditions. Today it’s known as Dixieland, as a kind of music. But only this word describes the country below me. At this height, you can hardly see a thing, but you can feel it. It is the southern mentality of the people down in Huntsville, Ala. They are kind and always ready to help. The steamboats were drowned out by the tumult and quake of the rocket engines which became more and more dominant in the area. In a few years, the town and her surroundings developed from an agricultural idyll to a high-tech center which shortly thereafter sent 12 people to the moon. The southern coziness was complemented with German precision and a hard-sounding dialect, and today this union, with deliberation and aim, moves not just mountains but worlds. The mentality of the German rocket engineers is not foreign at all; it's the same. Everything is simply made or done, without grumbling; that’s the way to reach a goal. The two words "Team Germany" are simultaneously an honor and an obligation in this town. Our moonbuggy team received this honor on the cover of The Huntsville Times this year (read the story here: http://tiny.cc/ahDXD) and I'm carrying two awards the team won at the race. In the meantime, the countryside underneath me has disappeared. I reach the airport in Atlanta with its multinational character. The accents mix and let me know that here the whole world is at home. Everybody complements this big country in his or her own manner, with his or her own traditions. We have had so many unique experiences these past days with the NASA Moonbuggy Race. I am curious how our students can use those experience, and how their achievements will be accepted by the people of my country. There is one result only: For my generation it is a bond, a point of honor, to support the international youth in their discovery and pursuit of space exploration. So I use my time on the transatlantic flight to ponder ideas for a moonbuggy promotional tour across Europe and Asia, with international workshops in Germany. Read more soon. Thanks to Team Germany's Christian Hein for translating! Tags : General

|Posted on May 04, 2009 09:59:12 AM | Angela Storey | 2 Comments || Ralf Heckel, advisor for Team Germany, shared these thoughts with us as he winged his way back home to the German Space Education Institute in Leipzig. Can't wait to have your racers back next year, Ralf! Delta Comair flight from Huntsville to Atlanta, 04/10/2009 12 a.m. The small plane has reached its travel altitude of nearly 10

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton and President Bill Clinton released the following statement on the passing of Geraldine Ferraro, the first female Vice Presidential candidate representing a major U.S. political party and U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Commission on Human Rights from 1993 to 1996: "Gerry Ferraro was one of a kind -- tough, brilliant, and never afraid to speak her mind or stand up for what she believed in -- a New York icon and a true American original. She was a champion for women and children and for the idea that there should be no limits on what every American can achieve. The daughter of an Italian immigrant family, she rose to become the first woman ever nominated to the national ticket by a major political party. She paved the way for a generation of female leaders and put the first cracks in America's political glass ceiling. She believed passionately that politics and public service was about making a difference for the people she represented as a congresswoman and Ambassador. "For us, Gerry was above all a friend and companion. From the rough-and-tumble of political campaigns to the important work of international diplomacy, we were honored to have her by our side. She was a tireless voice for human rights and helped lead the American delegation to the landmark Fourth World Conference on Women in Beijing in 1995. Through it all, she was a loyal friend, trusted confidante, and valued colleague. "Our thoughts and prayers are with Gerry's husband John, her children and grandchildren, and their entire family."

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton and President Bill Clinton released the following statement on the passing of Geraldine Ferraro, the first female Vice Presidential candidate representing a major U.S. political party and U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Commission on Human Rights from 1993 to 1996: "Gerry Ferraro was one of a kind -- tough, brilliant, and never afraid to speak her mi

Laws, Regulations & Annotations Business Taxes Law Guide – Revision 2013 Sales and Use Tax Annotations 550.0000 TAXABLE SALES OF FOOD PRODUCTS—Regulation 1603 (g) EMPLOYEES', TEACHERS' AND STUDENTS' MEALS 550.1300 Minimum Wage Law. When employees who are subject to minimum wage orders receive meals in lieu of cash payments, the difference between amounts actually paid to employees subject to minimum wage orders and the amount of the minimum wage is regarded as consideration attributable to the furnishing of meals, and this difference represents taxable gross receipts from the sale of meals. Sales of such meals are, under section 6363, effective September 20, 1963, taxable. In such circumstances the amount of tax due may be measured by taking the appropriate percentage of the difference. No amount need be charged to the employee as tax reimbursement because the amount is considered to be included in the value of the services rendered. 3/4/64.

Laws, Regulations & Annotations Business Taxes Law Guide – Revision 2013 Sales and Use Tax Annotations 550.0000 TAXABLE SALES OF FOOD PRODUCTS—Regulation 1603 (g) EMPLOYEES', TEACHERS' AND STUDENTS' MEALS 550.1300 Minimum Wage Law. When employees who are subject to minimum wage orders receive meals in lieu of cash payments, the difference between amounts actually paid to employees subject to minim

Search America's historic newspapers pages from - or use the U.S. Newspaper Directory to find information about American newspapers published between 1690-present. Chronicling America is sponsored jointly by the National Endowment for the Humanities external link and the Library of Congress. Learn more title: 'The Day book. (Chicago, Ill.) 1911-1917, May 19, 1914, LAST EDITION, Image 2', meta: 'News about Chronicling America - RSS Feed', Image provided by: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Library, Urbana, IL All ways to connect Inspector General | External Link Disclaimer | They left this nooii for Washing ton, where they will tell President Wilson he must intervene to, stop civil war in Colorado. Lindsey said: "The president of the United States is the only power that can preserve peace now in our state. The governor, the legislature, the federal troops, ;the proposed rtiediaon bodies haveall failed. "The president must force arbitra tion on the ground of military neces sity. This is the positive and, unmistakable- sentiment of the people of Mrs. Paul Jolly, whojwas fired upon though wearing a"Ked Cross uniform while caring for wounded during a truce, .said that when she left Ludlow "kst week, there were rumors that companies of armed guards were being former secretly by 'he coaf companies. "If they come again to shoot wo nen ahd children, they will find us ready-for them," she said. "The wo men will take guns and fight. 'I saw the dead body ,of Louis Tikas, the Greek. I saw where his head was split byfebme kind of a club. I saw the mark of a heel where some body tramped on Jns face after he was dead. And I saw the four bullet holes in his back where they shot him after clubbing him to death. "I would not have believed things could happen as terrible as I saw. The soldiers seemed to go crazy. After they had killed womeh and chil dren and burned the tent colony, they shot ,at everything that moved. Chickens, dogs, anything that moved, was a mark for them." , Mrs. M. H. Thomas, who was jailed eleven days in Trinidad, spoke to a gathering at Hull House. She said she has never been able to find out on what charge she was jailed and her case will be presented to the British government,, of which she is "We came to this country ten months aso from Wales," said Mrs. ffhomas, where my husband was a 1 union miner. We had about $1,500 saved and many gif t and keepsakes from the old country. Everything we had was looted, taken away as plun- , der by the militiamen. "I had a gold bracelet that was given me by my mother when I was twelve years old. I had a Bible my father gave me when I joined the church. I had a set of silverware given me by a society of friends. All these things, about 150 presents, MreThomas was a surprise to the newspaper men and social workers who talked with her. She looks like Billie Burke, the actress, except that her features are perhaps more rug ged. She is wistful and has brown hair with a slightly reddish tint. Her two children, Mary and Rachel, were "On the Sunday night before the Terrible Day," sift said, "we had a dance. No preachers would come to us, so we had never had any church services, though & am still a mem ber. On that night three militiamen were seen by Several of us. They were scouting around the premises of the tent colony, getting ready for the next day. "I was in bed'at 9 o'clock the next morning when I heard shots and peo ple crying. I knew then that the threats of some of the drunken sol diers were coming true. I called to women and children to climb down in a well. It was 150 feet deep with ladders running down. About 50 of us hung there near the camp. It was between us and the militiamen. We ran out and told the engineer to go slow so that hi tsrain would protect us while we went down to the arroya "That night a party of us womep. with our children walked "eight miles to a ranch. We had no food between Sunday night and late Monday night. Instead of sleeping Monday night, we thought of our men up on the hills without water. We got pails and car ried water five miles fo them. Tues- - . JwJi Ttjr.r

Search America's historic newspapers pages from - or use the U.S. Newspaper Directory to find information about American newspapers published between 1690-present. Chronicling America is sponsored jointly by the National Endowment for the Humanities external link and the Library of Congress. Learn more title: 'The Day book. (Chicago, Ill.) 1911-1917, May 19, 1914, LAST EDITION, Image 2', meta: 'Ne

St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center Coral reefs make up the most complex marine ecosystem on earth, essential to literally millions of plant and animal species. Over the past three decades, coral reefs in the western North Atlantic, including those in Virgin Islands National Park, have been damaged by diseases, storms, coral predators, high water temperatures, and a multitude of direct and indirect human activities. To date, there has been little to no recovery on damaged reefs. Diseases, storms and high seawater temperatures have played a major role. Degradation from human impacts continues to escalate simply because there are more and more people living near or dependent on the sea. A damaged coral reef cannot be restored to its original condition. True recovery of a reef could take decades to centuries, making damage prevention the priority management strategy. Nonetheless, with the increased incidence of damage and the continuing lack of recovery on Caribbean reefs, interest in rehabilitation and enhancement of reefs has heightened, specifically in transplantation of coral colonies to reefs of importance to local communities or in protected areas. If reef enhancement or rehabilitation is to be undertaken, two questions must be answered: This research was conducted in the nearshore waters of Virgin Islands National Park, St. John, US Virgin Islands. Storm-produced fragments of the three fastest growing species of Caribbean coral (elkhorn, staghorn and finger corals) were collected from habitats inhospitable to survival and transplanted to other reefs (Trunk and Whistling Cay). Inert nylon cable ties were used to secure the fragments to the sea bottom (dead coral). At the beginning of the project, little was known about survival and growth of small coral colonies. Sixty transplanted and 75 reference colonies were monitored for survival and growth for 12 years (1999-2011). Over 70 volunteers from Friends of Virgin Islands National Park and 5th and 6th grade classes from Pine Peace School monitored the colonies monthly (1999-2001). |All colonies||135||12 (9%)||3 (5%)||9 (12%)| |Elkhorn coral||75||9 (12%)||1 (3%)||8 (18%)| |Finger coral||30||3 (10%)||2 (3%)||1 (7%)| To reiterate, damaged and degraded reefs cannot be restored or rehabilitated to their original condition. Until the basic processes driving declines on coral reefs worldwide are understood and forcing factors such as increasing human-population pressures on marine and coastal resources are addressed, the future does not look bright for coral reefs. However, there is a place for small-scale rehabilitation efforts. For little expense and using readily available materials, local communities can effectively, albeit modestly: 1) minimize damage to intact corals by stabilizing loose fragments; 2) decrease incidence of human caused reef damage through community education; and; 3) create coral "gardens" of harvested storm-generated fragments that can then be used to mitigate direct damage to coral reefs, such as from boat groundings. Garrison, V.H., Ward, G. 2012. Transplantation of storm-generated coral fragments for coral conservation: A successful method but not the solution. Revista Biologia Tropical (Int. J. Trop. Biol) 60 (Suppl. 1): 59-70. [transplantation-storm-generated-coral.pdf (720 KB PDF)] Garrison, V., Ward, G. 2008. Storm-generated coral fragments – A viable source of transplants for reef rehabilitation. Biological Conservation 141: 3089-3100. [http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.biocon.2008.09.020] VH Garrison (US Geological Survey, 600 Fourth St S, St. Petersburg, FL 33701; 727 803-8747 ext. 3061; [email protected])

St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center Coral reefs make up the most complex marine ecosystem on earth, essential to literally millions of plant and animal species. Over the past three decades, coral reefs in the western North Atlantic, including those in Virgin Islands National Park, have been damaged by diseases, storms, coral predators, high water temperatures, and a multitude of direc

Find the most recent information on EU Funding activities in the field of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) by visiting our ICT in FP7 website, which covers ICT in the 7th Framework Programme (FP7) 2007 - 2013. eInfrastructures: a fundamental building block of the ERA - Building on GÉANT and Grids - The concept - An objective of FP6 in support of the ERA - The Reflection Group, a policy initiative Building on GÉANT and Grids The recent achievements of the pan-European network for researchers GÉANT mark the beginning of a new era in Research Networking in Europe. GÉANT provides new means for research and collaboration within the scientific community by making seamless interaction possible over large distances. It provides equal access for all scientists to research facilities in Europe. At the same time GÉANT allows more cost effective and efficient ways of scientific collaboration like almost instantaneous exchange of data and serving user communities with specific needs (e.g. astronomers, high energy physicists, etc.). The Fifth Framework Programme (FP5)project GN1 whose task is to build the GÉANT network has been funded for a total budget of € 200 M and EC contribution of € 80 M. These efforts are being strengthened in the Sixth Framework Programme (FP6) by further enlarging the user base of GÉANT and by keeping up the technological advancements to reach hundreds of Gigabit per second communications capacities. This network will represent a significant step forward as compared to the network built in FP5 in a number of factors: services available, communities served, geographical scope, bandwidth, readiness to adopt relevant new technologies, etc. The aim is to contribute to the development of an eInfrastructure for research capitalising on new computing and communication technologies and promoting a further breadth and depth to the collaboration amongst researchers in Europe. At the same time the international dimension of GÉANT will be enhanced by improving the communication capacities with scientists from other parts of the world. Another large domain related to eInfrastructure is Grids technology. Grid initiatives supported by the European Commission are an evolving process. They started in early 2000 with the development of large scale international test-beds in the IST Programme (funded in Research Networking). Because of the broad nature and the multidisciplinary approach of Grids research a Cross-Programme Action (CPA) was created in 2001 within the IST Programme which continued in 2002. Grids activities expanded significantly in this context. For a three year period the IST Programme has granted a total funding of approximately € 49 M for 19 projects in the area of Grids technology and applications. Most of the projects include test-beds which brought Grids technology from the laboratory into the real world. Several application areas are covered: high energy physics, astrophysics, quantum chemistry and drug design, earth and environment, biology and medicine, risk management, computational fluid dynamics, industrial simulations, etc. In the context of the Sixth Framework Programme, the EC is developing a broader vision on eInfrastructure. One of the main goals is to create on top of the pan-European network for research GÉANT, another pan-European infrastructure which is based on Grids-architectures. While GÉANT's main objective is connectivity (throughput, geographical coverage, quality of service, etc.), the Grids infrastructure will focus on processing of information (computing, data and service Grids). These two aspects will constitute an integral eInfrastructure with qualitatively new functionality and capabilities like the creation of virtual collaborations for research communities in a large number of scientific fields. In order to achieve this ambitious goal, the following priorities are crucial: - Use of the GÉANT network as the main underlying connectivity platform. - Co-ordinate and link in a significant way the GÉANT and Grids roadmaps and efforts. - Work in collaboration with user communities building a bridge between networking and Grids technology on one hand and application areas on the other hand. In this context it is important to identify the major actors relevant to the provision and use of the future eInfrastructure (GÉANT and Grid empowered infrastructure) and to explore the establishment of synergies between them. Three groups of actors emerge as relevant: - GÉANT partners (both at national and international level in which the NRENs (National Research and Education Networks) play a major role). - Those who will deploy Grids infrastructures in the future. They are likely to stem from the current Grids test-beds. - the current and potential research user communities, including scientist in academia, public and private research institutes and research departments of industrial entities in all areas of scientific activity. The figure above represents a simplified view on the eInfrastructure (GÉANT and Grid empowered infrastructure). The flashes represent: - Requirements (from user to research infrastructure provider) - Services (from research infrastructure provider to user) - Surveys and benchmarking. Note that GÉANT provides services both to Grid infrastructures and to research users directly, while Grid infrastructures have a dual role as a user of GÉANT and as a service provider to users. Only by insuring a close co-operation between providers and users of eInfrastructures, it is possible to attain a major priority of FP6: to build a pan-European Grids-empowered eInfrastructure that serves the concrete and actual needs of researchers. Europe needs to build such a very large-scale facility which operates reliably and continuously in order to meet the requirements of e-Science. This will create the conditions to do research and development in Europe in a qualitatively different way and will fulfil the political and social objectives of the European Research Area. Studies on user communities and their requirements is a very significant step in this process. The objective is to build a bridge between GÉANT and Grid infrastructures on the one hand and the research user communities in as many scientific areas as possible on the other. The EC would like to trigger work in this area with the goal to further integrate already existing activities, undertaken at the national level or at the level of individual projects. The scope of this process is meant to go beyond national borders, project consortia, and the interests of any specific research field or industry. An objective of FP6 in support of the ERA In March 2000 the Lisbon European Council adopted the European Research Area (ERA) which lays the foundation of a common science and technology policy across the European Union. The ERA aims to co-ordinate national research policies in the direction of shared objectives, expertise and resources. The Sixth Framework Programme (FP6) is a fundamental instrument to implement the ERA. FP6 foresees the implementation of the eInfrastructure concept as part of the objectives of the Specific Programme "Structuring the European Research Area" - "Support for Research Infrastructure". In concrete terms, the Work Programme specifies that: "The Communication Network Development scheme will be concerned with the development of a "cyber-infrastructure" for Research capitalizing on new computing and communication opportunities and will promote a further breadth and depth to the collaboration amongst researchers in Europe." The deployment of such a eInfrastructure requires a coordinated approach to the development of GÉANT, Grid infrastructures and Test-beds. Within Research Infrastructure, the Communications Network Development scheme entails work in two areas with a total budget of € 200 M: - GÉANT - aiming to provide a high-capacity and high-speed communications network interconnecting the European National Research and Education Networks. - Grids - aiming to deploy advanced Grid-empowered infrastructures which should have production-level performance capabilities and constitute themselves distributed facilities at gigabit/terabit scales (in terms of computing, storage and communication power). The work on Test-beds is being done within the context of the Sixth Framework Programme Thematic Priority 2 - Information Society Technologies (IST) - Strategic Objective Research networking test-beds with a budget of € 50 M. The IST Workprogramme clarifies that this "work is complementary to and in support of the activities carried out in the area of Research Infrastructure", aiming at the deployment of advanced, user-driven large scale test-beds with the goal to integrate and validate the state-of-the-art technology relevant to the eInfrastructure. It should be noted that another Strategic Objective of the IST Thematic Priority will significantly contribute to the establishment and continuous upgrade of eInfrastructures in Europe. This is namely "Grid-based systems for Complex Problems Solving" . This Strategic Objective promotes research on "Grid, Peer-to-Peer and other types of networked distributed computing and storage technologies, as well as emerging web-technologies, which make possible to conceive new paradigms exploiting distributed resources". A total budget of € 125 M has been granted. The Reflection Group, a policy initiative. The eInfrastructure concept is a concrete implementation of a new model of shared use of computing and data resources across diverse technological, administrative and national domains. The current developments are creating the expectation that the underlying technologies are maturing quickly enough to support the emergence of this new eInfrastructure. In the long run it is expected to become a commodity service to the research community. In order to optimally implement the eInfrastructure concept, appropriate administrative and policy decision mechanisms are already put in place. Every six months the respective EU presidency organises a workshop with the participation of representatives of all the European National Research and Education Networks and the national Grid Programmes. In order to address the challenges described above, a eInfrastructures Reflection Group was created after the first workshop in June 2003. Its objectives are: - To provide a framework for easier, faster and more effective access for all European researchers to all types of information resources (networking, computing, data storage) distributed across Europe. - To promote the best practice implementation of such a model in research, so that to facilitate and accelerate the subsequent commercial uptake of the mew paradigm. For more information please see the web site.

Find the most recent information on EU Funding activities in the field of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) by visiting our ICT in FP7 website, which covers ICT in the 7th Framework Programme (FP7) 2007 - 2013. eInfrastructures: a fundamental building block of the ERA - Building on GÉANT and Grids - The concept - An objective of FP6 in support of the ERA - The Reflection Group, a po

Diverse, connected and healthy landscapes that support and sustain biodiversity, communities and wellbeing Australia has a rich variety of native plants, animals and other organisms - our nation's biodiversity. However, as Australia has developed, our natural environment has become increasingly fragmented resulting in significant loss of natural habitats and a decline in biodiversity. This problem is compounded by threats such as climate change and invasive pest species. The Australian Government recognises that our response to biodiversity decline has to be increased if we are to effectively respond to this problem. The National Wildlife Corridors Plan will lay the foundations for addressing this decline. Supporting our biodiversity The National Wildlife Corridors Plan is an Australian Government initiative to support the reconnection of the Australian landscape. It lays the foundation for a new, collaborative, whole-of-landscape approach to the conservation of our nation's biodiversity by improving the resilience of our landscapes in a changing climate and repairing landscapes that have become fragmented. The National Wildlife Corridors Plan will help Australians reconnect with the environment by providing the community with a national network of wildlife corridors across the nation. Corridors will range from small corridors created by local communities to large corridors that stretch across many different landscapes. Creating a network of wildlife corridors will contribute to healthy and productive landscapes that support and sustain biodiversity, communities and wellbeing. - National Wildlife Corridors Plan - Fact sheet - National Wildlife Corridors Plan (PDF - 2MB) - Development of the Corridors Plan The National Wildlife Corridors Plan Advisory Group The National Wildlife Corridors Plan was developed by an independent advisory group. The chair and members of this group are listed below. Affiliations are as they were at the time the Corridors Plan was written. |The Hon Bob Debus||Independent Chair| |Kym Cheatham||Ecotourism Australia| |Professor Steve Dovers||Fenner School of Environment and Society, ANU| |Debra Goostrey||Urban Development Institute of Australia| |Melissa George||Indigenous Advisory Committee| |Brett de Hayr||National Landcare Facilitator| |Dr Judy Henderson||Northern Rivers Catchment Management Authority| |Doug Humann||Bush Heritage Australia| |Angus Hume||Natural resource management / agriculture advisor| |Vicki Jo Russell||Australian Landcare Council| |Dr Paul Sinclair||Australian Conservation Foundation| |Felicity Wishart||The Wilderness Society| |Deb Kerr||National Farmers Federation| For more information For more information about the National Wildlife Corridors Plan please call 1800 803 772 or email [email protected]. National Wildlife Corridors Plan National Wildlife Corridor Nominations Nominations for National Wildlife Corridors have not yet begun. Information will be provided on this website when nominations are called.

Diverse, connected and healthy landscapes that support and sustain biodiversity, communities and wellbeing Australia has a rich variety of native plants, animals and other organisms - our nation's biodiversity. However, as Australia has developed, our natural environment has become increasingly fragmented resulting in significant loss of natural habitats and a decline in biodiversity. This problem

European Commission - Press release European Statistical Programme 2013-17: Quality, timely and efficient statistics to support European policies Brussels, 21 December 2011 - "Quality statistics are vital for evidence based decision-making and the sound implementation of EU policies. They are also important in helping citizens to understand the EU and become involved in the democratic process", said Algirdas Šemeta, Commissioner responsible for Eurostat. In order to ensure reliable, comparable and cost-effective statistics in the years ahead, the Commission today adopted a proposal for the European Statistical Programme 2013-17. With a budget of €299.4 million, the programme will run for 5 years from 1 January 2013. European Statistical System (Eurostat and national statistical institutes) will be responsible for implementing the multiannual programme, in accordance with the European Statistics Code of Practice and respecting the principles of independence, integrity and accountability. A large proportion of the budget will be allocated to the Member States in order to support the implementation of the Programme at national level. The European Statistical Programme sets out 3 overriding objectives for 2013-17, namely: To provide high quality statistics to better design, monitor and evaluate EU policies. To implement more efficient methods of producing European statistics- To strengthen the leading role of the European Statistical System in official statistics worldwide The Programme breaks these general objectives down into more specific headings, with details on how they will be implemented. An annual work programme will be drawn up each year with concrete actions to meet these objectives. The need for information must be weighed against the resources available and the burden placed on businesses and citizens in responding to the necessary questionnaires and surveys to compile statistics. Therefore, the European Statistical Programme highlights certain areas which will be given priority focus. These follow the EU's broader priorities, such as Europe 2020, strengthened economic governance, climate change, growth and social cohesion, people's Europe and globalisation. While EU policy-making will largely influence the work of the European Statistical System in the coming years, any statistics produced under the new Programme will also be available to other decision-makers, researchers, businesses and European citizens on an equal basis. The European Statistical System (ESS) has been faced with a number of challenges in recent years. The demand for high-quality, timely, and ever more complex statistics is increasing, while the resources available to produce and disseminate these statistics have become more limited. Increased efficiency and flexibility are required of the ESS, to respond to these challenges and contribute to the successful development and implementation of EU policies. These challenges were addressed in the Commission Communication on the production method of EU statistics and the ESS strategy for its implementation. Implementation of the Communication and strategy are the core of the European Statistical Programme. The European Statistical Programme starts already in 2013 because it will follow up the current programme which will finish in 2012. Under the current rules, the European statistical programme can not exceed a period of five years and will therefore end in 2018. The draft Regulation will now be discussed by the Council and the European Parliament, with a view to adoption by the end of 2012, so that the new programme can start on 1 January 2013. Negotiations on the Multiannual Financial Framework for the whole EU budget will continue in parallel (MEMO/11/468). For more information on the programme, see MEMO/11/939 Emer Traynor (+32 2 292 15 48) Natasja Bohez Rubiano (+32 2 296 64 70)

European Commission - Press release European Statistical Programme 2013-17: Quality, timely and efficient statistics to support European policies Brussels, 21 December 2011 - "Quality statistics are vital for evidence based decision-making and the sound implementation of EU policies. They are also important in helping citizens to understand the EU and become involved in the democratic process", sa

Bushuev, A. V., R. G. Barry, V. M. Smolyanitsky, and V. J. Troisi. 1994. Format to Provide Sea Ice Data for the World Climate Program (SIGRID-2). Unpublished report to the World Meteorological Organization Commission for Marine Meteorology. Environment Canada. 1989. Ice Charts: WMO Symbols for the Hatching of Total Concentration of Ice. Manual of Standard Procedures for Observing and Reporting ... Ice Conditions. Atmospheric Environment Service, Ottawa Ontario. p. 3-21 - 3-31. Environment Canada. 1992. Ice Terminology: Ice Codes and Symbols, Egg Code. MANIS, Manual of Ice Services. Atmospheric Environment Service. Ottawa, Ontario. sect. A.3. Kokaly, Raymond F. 1996. Format for Gridded Sea Ice Information (SIGRID). Special Report to theNational Snow and Ice Data Center, Boulder, Colorado. Kokaly, Raymond F. 1996. An Evaluation of the Results from Using Nearest Neighbor and Area Min/Max Resampling Methods to Regrid AARI Digitized Sea Ice Charts to EASE-Grid. S pecial Report to theNational Snow and Ice Data Center, Boulder, Colorado. Thomas Thompson. 1981. Proposed Format for Gridded Sea Ice Information (SIGRID). Unpublished report prepared for the World Climate Programme.

Bushuev, A. V., R. G. Barry, V. M. Smolyanitsky, and V. J. Troisi. 1994. Format to Provide Sea Ice Data for the World Climate Program (SIGRID-2). Unpublished report to the World Meteorological Organization Commission for Marine Meteorology. Environment Canada. 1989. Ice Charts: WMO Symbols for the Hatching of Total Concentration of Ice. Manual of Standard Procedures for Observing and Reporting ...

Estimated population of Puerto Rico1: 3,942,375 No data exist for Puerto Rico for the percentage of the population living in poverty or the percentage of the population with health insurance. Percentage of Population Living in Poverty2 |Percentage living in poverty (below 100% of Federal Poverty Level)||0| |Percentage living below 200% of Federal Poverty Level||0| |Percentage living below 300% of Federal Poverty Level||0| Percentage of Population With Health Insurance3 |Type of Health Insurance||Percentage| NOTE: People can be covered by more than one type of health insurance during the year.

Estimated population of Puerto Rico1: 3,942,375 No data exist for Puerto Rico for the percentage of the population living in poverty or the percentage of the population with health insurance. Percentage of Population Living in Poverty2 |Percentage living in poverty (below 100% of Federal Poverty Level)||0| |Percentage living below 200% of Federal Poverty Level||0| |Percentage living below 300% of

From the initial discussions in 1954 of a United States International Geophysical Year satellite project, President Eisenhower's position had been that space activities should be conducted solely for peaceful purposes. The nature and objectives of Project Vanguard had reflected this policy. He summed up his feelings in a letter to Soviet Premier Nikolai Bulganin, dated January 12, 1958. Describing the demilitarization of space as "the most important problem which faces the world today," he proposed that - . . . outer space should be used only for peaceful purposes. . . . can we not stop the production of such weapons which would use or, more accurately, misuse, outer space, now for the first time opening up as a field for man's exploration? Should not outer space be dedicated to the peaceful uses of mankind and denied to the purposes of war? . . .27 Consistent with this "space for peace" policy, the concentration on February 7, 1958, of Federal space activities in the Advanced Research Projects Agency of the Defense Department had been only an interim measure pending establishment of a new, civilian-controlled space management organization. Shortly before the creation of ARPA, Eisenhower had turned to his newly appointed, 18-member President's Scientific Advisory Committee (PSAC), chaired by President James R. Killian, Jr., of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and including among its members NACA Chairman Doolittle. Eisenhower instructed the Committee to draw up two documents: a broad policy statement familiarizing Americans with space and justifying Government-financed astronautical ventures, and a recommendation for organizing a national program in space science. The "Killian committee," as the early PSAC was called, chose two subcommittees. One, on policy, was headed by Edward H. Purcell, a physicist and executive vice-president of Bell Telephone Laboratories; the other, on organization, was led by Harvard University physicist James B. Fisk. The Fisk subcommittee on organization finished its work first. After talking with Doolittle and NACA Director Dryden, Fisk and his colleagues made a crucial report to PSAC late in February. A new agency built around NACA should be created to carry out a comprehensive national program in astronautics, emphasizing peaceful, civilian-controlled research and development. The White House Advisory Committee on Government Organization, consisting of Nelson B. Rockefeller, Killian, and Maurice H. Stans, Director of the Bureau of the Budget, used this PSAC subcommittee report as the basis for a formal recommendation on a national space organization, which Eisenhower received and approved on March 5. Five months after Sputnik I, the administration began drawing up proposed legislation for consideration by the Congress. As Dryden later observed, NACA's cautious post-Sputnik strategy had "paid off, in the long run." PSAC's rationale for space exploration, entitled "Introduction to Outer Space," was issued on March 26. This statement proclaimed that "the compelling urge of man to explore and to discover," "the defense objective," "national prestige," and "new opportunities for scientific observation and experiment" were "four factors which give importance, urgency, and inevitability to the advancement of space technology."28 On April 2, Eisenhower sent his formal message on space matters to Congress. The document again indicated the President's intense conviction that space should be primarily reserved for scientific exploration, not military exploitation. It called for the establishment of a "National Aeronautical and Space Agency," which would absorb NACA and assume responsibility for all "space activities . . . except . . . those projects primarily associated with military requirements." The executive authority in the new organization would be exercised by one person, a director, who would be advised by a 17-member "National Aeronautical and Space Board." The proposal for a loose advisory board represented little more than an extension of the NACA Main Committee. The idea for a single executive, however, stemmed mainly from the opinions of Eisenhower's legislative experts and the officials of the Bureau of the Budget. They wanted authority in the new agency to be centralized, not diffused in a committee as was the case with NACA and the Atomic Energy Commission. The second and more critical departure from NACA history was Eisenhower's stipulation that the proposed organization would have not only research but development, managerial, and flight operational responsibilities. Unlike NACA, then, it would possess extensive authority for contracting research and development projects.29 Twelve days later, on April 14, the Eisenhower administration sent to the Democratic-controlled Congress its bill to create such an agency, drafted largely by the Bureau of the Budget.30 In the House of Representatives and the Senate, special committees began hearings on the bill. The measure would undergo extensive amendment and reworking at the hands of the legislators. But it soon was apparent that a new agency would come into being, that NACA would constitute its nucleus, and that it would undertake large-scale development and operational activities in addition to research. The odds were better than good that a manned satellite project would fall within the domain of the civilian organization. Proceeding on this assumption, engineers working at all of the NACA installations - at the ranges and wind tunnels at Langley and Ames, in the high-temperature jet facilities and rocket-test chambers at Lewis and Langley, at the rocket launch pads and control panels on Wallops Island, and in the flight hangars at the High Speed Flight Station - stepped up their research in materials, aerodynamics, and control.31 By early 1958, according to Preston R. Bassett, chairman of NACA's renamed Committee on Aircraft, Missile, and Spacecraft Aerodynamics, approximately 55 percent of all NACA activity was already applicable to space flight.32 According to another set of NACA statistics, the Pilotless Aircraft Research Division (PARD) was expending 90 percent of its effort on space and missile research; the rest of the Langley laboratory, 40 percent; Ames, 29 percent; and Lewis, 36 percent.33 Virtually every member of NACA's technical staff eagerly anticipated a national program of space exploration. Since the raison d'Ítre of NACA always had been to improve the performance of piloted aircraft, most NACA engineers viewed manned space flight as an even more challenging and rewarding form of activity. Not everyone in the NACA laboratories, however, was convinced that the agency's destiny lay in developing hardware, managing programs, and carrying out satellite launchings. Many scientist-engineers subscribed wholeheartedly to the official NACA position enunciated by Headquarters in January and February: While NACA ought to labor mightily in the furtherance of space science, it should continue to solve problems posed by other agencies engaged in development and operations, not handle programs itself. The "research-minded" element within the NACA technical staff probably was strongest at Ames. Most of the Ames complement had gone to work for NACA because of the nature of the organization. Its quasi-academic focus on research, its receptiveness to new and sometimes radical concepts, its relative obscurity and freedom from politics appealed to them. At the California institution the prospect of managing programs, which entailed fighting for appropriations, wrangling with industrial contractors, and perhaps competing with the military, seemed exceedingly distasteful.34 This attitude was not so prevalent at the two other laboratories or at the High Speed Flight Station. The years of direct participation with Air Force, Navy, and contract personnel in the research aircraft projects had given Walter Williams and his staff at the Flight Station a rather clear operational orientation, albeit with airplanes and not with space rockets and satellites. The Lewis and Langley staffs included a sizable number of research workers who, while enjoying the intellectual liberty of NACA, felt it would be quite a challenge to carry out a program of their own instead of simply providing advice for the military and industry. They looked on approvingly as the Eisenhower administration sent to Congress a measure substantially embodying their ideas. The academic approach to aeronautics and astronautics pervaded much of Langley, the oldest and in some ways the most tradition-minded of the NACA laboratories. The commitment to basic research and the devotion to theoretical calculations and wind tunnels as the most efficacious means of gathering aerodynamic data were as strong among some Langley engineers as among the Ames investigators. But in the Flight Research, Instrument Research, and Pilotless Aircraft Research Divisions at Langley; at the semiautonomous Pilotless Aircraft Research Station on Wallops Island, 70 miles away across Chesapeake Bay; and in the Flight Research Division at Lewis, there were people who had gained the bulk of their experience by working with airfoils mounted on the wings of airplanes in flight and from air-launched and ground-launched scale models propelled by rockets. For years they had been close to "development" and "operations" in their research activities, but they had turned their telemetered findings over to someone else for practical application. Now it seemed that the Soviet artificial moons might have given these ambitious aeronautical engineers a chance to put their imagination and technical experience to use in a manned space flight program. As Paul E. Purser, then head of the High Temperature Branch of PARD, put it, "In early 1958 we simply assumed we would get the manned satellite project. So we started to work."35 Over the years the PARD specialists had perfected their techniques of launch, guidance, automatic control, and telemetry on small rockets, and had steadily added to the mountain of experimental data on hypervelocity performance and aerodynamic heating. Their rockets, while remaining small in thrust and payload, had become more and more sophisticated. During 1957, by firing five-stage research rockets, they had been able to achieve a final-stage velocity of mach 16.36 And they already were doing conceptual work on a new and larger multistage research rocket, designed to boost scale models in their own stability and heat-transfer studies and to send up small instrumented satellites and space probes for the Air Force. Later called the Scout, this four- or five-stage, solid-propellant configuration could fire its stages sequentially to place either a 150-pound payload in a 300-mile orbit, 100 pounds in a 5,000-to-10,000-mile orbit, or 30 pounds in an orbit more than 22,000 miles from Earth.`37 In the hectic weeks and months following the Soviet satellite launchings, the advocates of manned space flight at Langley, realizing that their experience in nose-cone research was directly transferable to the design of manned satellite vehicles, turned their attention to spacecraft design as never before. NACA's initial agreement of March 14, 1958, to collaborate with the Air Force in drawing up plans for a manned orbital project gave official sanction to research they already had been doing largely on their own time. Theoretically this work still was in support of the Air Force and industrial manned-satellite studies. As it turned out, the Langley engineers were doing the early development work for their own enterprise, later to become Project Mercury. The sparkplug behind much of this activity was Maxime A. Faget, head of the Performance Aerodynamics Branch in PARD. Thirty-seven years old in 1958, Faget had been born in British Honduras, the son of an honored physician in the United States Public Health Service. In 1943, when his father was developing sulfone drugs for the National Leprosarium in Carville, Louisiana, the diminutive Faget received a bachelor of science degree in mechanical engineering from Louisiana State University. After his discharge from the Navy's submarine service in 1946, he joined the staff at Langley. He soon devised choking inlets for ramjets, a flight mach number meter, and several mathematical formulas for deriving data from Richard T. Whitcomb's area rule.38 Like Robert R. Gilruth and others before him at Langley, Faget preferred to enlarge his knowledge in aerodynamics and thermodynamics not in wind tunnels but by observing and telemetering data from vehicles in free flight. In mid-March, less than a week after the conclusion of the Air Force man-in-space working conference in Los Angeles, Gilruth, as Assistant Director of Langley, called Faget and his other top engineers together to determine what should be the "Langley position" on optimum spacecraft configurations at the NACA Conference on High-Speed Aerodynamics, to be held at the Ames laboratory beginning March 18. The consensus of the meeting was that the Langley-PARD representatives should present a united front at Ames behind a ballistic concept.39 The Conference on High-Speed Aerodynamics, the last in a long line of full-dress symposiums held by NACA, attracted most of the luminaries in the organization, including Dryden, Silverstein, Eggers, H. Julian Allen, Walter Williams, and the members of the Committee on Aircraft, Missile, and Spacecraft Aerodynamics. Military personnel and representatives of most of the aircraft and missile firms also attended this forum. The 46 papers read at the conference, dealing with hypersonic, satellite, and interplanetary flight, represented the most advanced thinking in aerodynamics within NACA. Taken together, the papers demonstrated how far some NACA engineers trained in aeronautics had pushed their research into the new discipline of astronautics.40 Much interest centered around three presentations proposing alternative configurations for manned orbital flight. The first of these papers was authored by Faget, Benjamine J. Garland, and James J. Buglia. Faget presented it as the orbital configuration regarded most favorably by PARD personnel - the wingless, nonlifting vehicle. Faget and his associates pointed out several advantages of this simple ballistic approach. In the first place, ballistic missile research, development, and production experience was directly applicable to the design and construction of such a vehicle. The fact that it would be fired along a ballistic path meant that automatic stabilization, guidance, and control equipment could be kept at a minimum, thus saving weight and diminishing the likelihood of a malfunction. The nonlifting vehicle simplified return from orbit because the only necessary maneuver was the firing of retrograde rockets - "retrorockets" - to decelerate the spacecraft, deflecting it from orbit and subjecting it to atmospheric drag. And even that maneuver need not be too precise for the accomplishment of a safe recovery. After retrofire, successful entry depended solely on the inherent stability and structural soundness of the ballistic vehicle. Faget, Garland, and Buglia acknowledged that the pure-drag device necessitated landing in a large and imprecisely defined area, using a parachute, and dispensing with lifting and braking controls to correct the rate of descent, the direction, or the impact force. Rather severe oscillations might occur during descent. But Faget and his associates noted that tests with model ballistic capsules in the 20-foot-diameter, free-spinning tunnel at Langley had shown that attitude control jets, such as those used on the X-1B, X-2, and X-15 rocketplanes, could provide rate damping and help correct the oscillations, while a small drogue parachute should give still more stability. The three Langley engineers went so far as to propose a specific, if rudimentary, ballistic configuration - a nearly flat-faced cone angled about 15 degrees from the vertical, 11 feet long and 7 feet in diameter, using a heat sink rather than an ablative covering for thermal protection. Although the space passenger would lie supine against the heatshield at all times, during orbital flight the capsule would reverse its attitude so that the deceleration loads of reentry would be imposed from front to back through the man's body, the same as under acceleration. The authors concluded that "as far as reentry and recovery is concerned [sic], the state-of-the-art is sufficiently advanced so that it is possible to proceed confidently with a manned satellite project based upon the ballistic reentry type of vehicle."41 One dissenter from the Langley consensus favoring a manned projectile was John Becker, of the Langley Compressibility Research Division and a veteran of X-15 development, who read a paper at the conference on possible winged satellite configurations. Becker's main concern was the reentry heating problem in conjunction with some maneuverability within the atmosphere. Combining his theoretical findings with those of Charles W. Mathews of Langley, Becker suggested a glider-like configuration. Instead of entering the atmosphere at a low angle of attack and using lift to return to Earth, it would deliberately come in at a high angle of attack, employing its lower wing surface as a heatshield. Deceleration loads still could be held at a little over 1 g in this fashion. The gross weight of such a low-lift, high-drag vehicle would be only about 3,060 pounds. "Thus . . . the minimum winged satellite vehicle is not prohibitively heavier than the drag type," concluded Becker. "The weight is sufficiently low to permit launching by booster systems similar to that for the drag vehicle described in a previous paper by Maxime A. Faget, Benjamine J. Garland, and James J. Buglia."42 What some Langley researchers had come to regard as the "Ames position" on manned satellites was described in a paper by Thomas J. Wong, Charles A. Hermach, John O. Reller, and Bruce E. Tinling, four aeronautical engineers who had worked with Eggers. They presented a polished, more detailed version of the blunt, semilifting M-1 configuration conceived by Eggers the previous summer. For such a vehicle a lift/drag ratio of 1/2 could be effected simply by removing the upper portion of a pure ballistic shape, making the body somewhat deeper than that of a half-cone, and adding trailing edge flaps for longitudinal and lateral control. Maximum deceleration forces would be only 2 g, low enough to permit a pilot to remain in control of his vehicle. Blunting would reduce heat conduction; the vehicle would be stable and controllable down to subsonic speeds and would provide substantial maneuverability; and structural weight would remain relatively low. Thus "it appears that a high-lift, high-drag configuration of the type discussed has attractive possibilities for the reentry of a satellite vehicle."43 The Ames engineers' presentation was not in the form of a spacecraft design challenge to the Langley-PARD aerodynamicists. Eggers and various others at Ames remained convinced of the overall superiority of the lifting body for manned satellite missions. But as Eggers explained, "Ames was not enthusiastic in 1958 to participate in an operational program for building and launching spacecraft of any kind, manned or unmanned."44 While some Ames people were rather avidly pushing the M-1 concept, their avidity did not stem from any desire for operational dominance in a civilian space program. The California NACA scientists were quite willing to leave the business of building prototypes, carrying out full-scale tests, and then managing a program to their more "hardware-oriented" colleagues across the continent. To Faget, Purser, and Gilruth the choice between the semilifting configuration favored by the Ames group and their nonlifting device really was an academic one. Given the assumption that a manned satellite should be fired into orbit as quickly as possible, then the Atlas ICBM, not the still untested Titan or a Thor-fluorine combination, should serve as the launch vehicle for a one-ton spacecraft. The Atlas was following a tortuous route toward status as a reliable operational rocket, but it was still the only ICBM anywhere near being ready. The criterion already adopted by Faget and his associates, that an attempt to orbit a man should follow the simplest, quickest, and most dependable approach, negated a heavier, semilifting vehicle; this would have required adding an extra stage to the Atlas or some other rocket. The same criterion even ruled out Becker's low-lift, high-drag proposal. If the first manned orbital project was to adhere to and profit from ballistic missile experience, then the capabilities of the Atlas should be the first consideration. Faget himself did not have detailed data on the Atlas' design performance before, during, or for some time after the Ames conference; such information was highly classified and he lacked an official "need to know." About two months after he delivered his paper he learned through conversations with Frank J. Dore, an engineer-executive of Convair, what he needed to design a manned ballistic payload.45 In the weeks following the Ames conference, Faget's and other Langley-PARD research teams, centering their efforts on the basic ballistic shape, started working out the details of hurling a man-carrying projectile around the world.46 While the engineers at the NACA Virginia installations hurried their designs, tests, and plans, and while Congress received Eisenhower's space bill, the organizational transformation of NACA began. After the White House Advisory Committee on Government Organization recommended that a national civilian space program be built around NACA, Director Dryden and his subordinates in Washington began planning the revamping that would have to accompany the reorientation of NACA functions. Dryden called Abe Silverstein of Lewis to Washington to begin organizing a spaceflight development program. On April 2, as part of his space message to Congress, Eisenhower instructed NACA and the Defense Department to review the projects then under ARPA to determine which should be transferred to the new civilian space agency. NACA and Defense Department representatives, in consultation with Bureau of the Budget officials, reached tentative agreements on the disposition of practically all the projects and facilities in question, with the notable exception of manned space flight. In accordance with Eisenhower's directive that NACA "describe the internal organization, management structure, staff, facilities, and funds which will be required," NACA set up an ad hoc committee on organization under the chairmanship of Assistant Director Ira Abbott.47 27 Quoted in Senate Committee on Aeronautical and Space Sciences, 88 Cong., 1 sess. (1963), Documents on International Aspects of the Exploration and Use of Outer Space, 1954-1962, Staff Report No. 18, 52-53. See also Dwight D. Eisenhower, The White House Years: Waging Peace, 1956-1961 (Garden City, N.Y., 1965). 28 President's Scientific Advisory Committee, Introduction to Outer Space, in Senate Special Committee on Space and Astronautics, 85 Cong., 2 sess. (1958), Compilation of Materials on Outer Space, No. 1, 45-46. The foregoing account of the work of PSAC in the late winter of 1958 is taken mainly from interviews with Dryden, Wood, and Dembling, Washington, Aug. 31, Sept. 1 and 2, 1965; and memo, Dryden for Eugene M. Emme for NASA Historical Files, "The NACA-NASA Transition, October 1957 to October 1958," Sept. 8, 1965. 29 Levine, "U.S. Aeronautical Research Policy," 151-156; Ambrose, "National Space Program," I, 79-87; Robert L. Rosholt, An Administrative History of NASA, 1958-1963, NASA SP-4101 (Washington, 1966), 6-12; Dryden interview. Eisenhower's message of April 2 is reprinted, among many other places, in House Select Committee on Astronautics and Space Exploration, 85 Cong., 2 sess. (1958), Astronautics and Space Exploration, Hearings, 820-821. 30 The administration bill is reprinted, among other places, in Astronautics and Space Exploration, 11-15. The legislative history of the bill is discussed in detail in Alison E. Griffith, The National Aeronautics and Space Act: A Study of Public Policy (Washington, 1962). 31 Indicative of the widespread and growing concern at Langley over the prospect of space flight was a special course in basic space technology, given by members of the Flight Research Division from Feb. to May 1958. The lectures covered such subjects as lunar orbits, rocket operation, aerodynamic heating of spacecraft, and the medical problems of space flight. See "Notes on Space Technology Compiled by the Flight Research Division," Langley Aeronautical Laboratory, Feb.-May 1958. One of the members of the Flight Research Division at the time has referred to these collected lectures as "essentially the first U.S. textbook in space flight technology." John P. Mayer, comments, Sept. 8, 1965. 32 This estimate was broken down into 30 percent space research in aerodynamics, 20 percent in propulsion, and 5 percent in structures. Minutes, NACA Committee on Aerodynamics, Moffett Field, Calif., March 21, 1958, 6. 33 "National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics, Organization and Distribution of Effort Related to Space Research for the Fiscal Year 1958," chart in Astronautics and Space Exploration, 404-405. 34 These generalizations are based on conversations with various senior members of the technical staff at what is now the NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, Calif., April 22-23, 1964. During this visit mottoes such as "NACA Forever" and "NASA Go Home" were observed posted around the laboratories. 35 Paul E. Purser, interview, Houston, Feb. 12, 1964. 36 See Ms., anon., "NACA Research into Space," Washington, Dec. 1957; and William M. Bland, Jr., "The Design of Multistage Rocket Vehicles for Hypersonic Research," Langley, 1958. 37 For the characteristics of the Scout see "Considerations Affecting Satellite and Space Probe Research with Emphasis on the 'Scout' as a Launch Vehicle," NASA Tech. Report R-97, Washington, 1961. 38 Maxime A. Faget, biography sheet, NASA/MSC, May 1963. 39 Charles W. Mathews, interview, Houston, Feb. 24, 1964; Faget, interview, Houston, Aug. 24, 1964; Purser, log of administrative activities related to space and missile research, Jan. 4, 1956, to April 25, 1958. 40 "NACA Conference on High-Speed Aerodynamics, Ames Aeronautical Laboratory, Moffett Field, Calif., March 18, 19, and 20, 1958: A Compilation of the Papers Presented." 41 Maxime A. Faget, Benjamine J. Garland, and James J. Buglia, "Preliminary Studies of Manned Satellites - Wingless Configurations: Nonlifting," ibid., 9-34. 42 John V. Becker, "Preliminary Studies of Manned Satellites - Winged Configurations," ibid., 45-58. 43 Thomas J. Wong, Charles A. Hermach, John O. Reller, Jr., and Bruce E. Tinling, "Preliminary Studies of Manned Satellites - Wingless Configurations: Lifting Body," ibid.35-40. 44 Letter, Alfred J. Eggers to C. C. A., June 24, 1964. 45 Faget interview. 46 For the specific problems in launching and recovering a manned satellite being examined at Langley, see the outline "Manned Satellite Program, Prepared by the NACA staff, March 12, 1958." 47 Rosholt, Administrative History of NASA, 37-40; memo, Warren J. North to NASA Administrator, "Background of Project Mercury Schedules," with enclosures, Aug. 14, 1960.

From the initial discussions in 1954 of a United States International Geophysical Year satellite project, President Eisenhower's position had been that space activities should be conducted solely for peaceful purposes. The nature and objectives of Project Vanguard had reflected this policy. He summed up his feelings in a letter to Soviet Premier Nikolai Bulganin, dated January 12, 1958. Describing

The pilots say that the lack of engine noise in the A380's cabin compared with other long-haul airliners means they are constantly disturbed by sounds created by passengers, such as crying babies, flushing vacuum toilets and call bells. Passengers also mistake the rest area for a lavatory, and pull the door handle. The Dubai-based carrier has asked Airbus for a solution that does not involve substantially adding weight, which rules out insulating the walls of the rest area, situated at the rear of the all-economy main deck, says Emirates senior vice-president, fleet, Capt Ed Davidson. "We are expecting to hear back from them by the middle of the month," says Davidson, who admits that the airframer has "over delivered" on its noise promises on the airline's Engine Alliance GP7200-powered A380s. One option could be installing lightweight generators to create ambient noise. Thursday, December 04, 2008 It's hard work being a pilot these days, especially when you're flying the A380. Apparently, the giant plane is too quiet that pilots can't even fall asleep! Poor thing. From James Wallace on Aerospace: Posted by I.Z. Reloaded at 8:35 PM This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial 3.0 Singapore License.

The pilots say that the lack of engine noise in the A380's cabin compared with other long-haul airliners means they are constantly disturbed by sounds created by passengers, such as crying babies, flushing vacuum toilets and call bells. Passengers also mistake the rest area for a lavatory, and pull the door handle. The Dubai-based carrier has asked Airbus for a solution that does not involve subst

Although not a financial success for its investors, the Centennial Exhibition was an immense success in showcasing American culture and industry in a world setting. The benefits of the Centennial to the American economy, foreign relations and wartime recovery were impressive. In 1851 America had been embarrassed by its inability to compete on a par with other nations at the Crystal Palace Exhibition. By 1876 foreign visitors were impressed and captivated by American progress and industrial know-how. The writer and critic William Dean Howells observed, "no one can see the fair without a thrill of patriotic pride." What most impressed foreign visitors most was America's growing industrial and commercial advantage. The Times of London, while noting America's home ground advantage observed, "the products of the industry of the United States surpassed our own oftener than can be explained by this circumstance -- they revealed the application of more brains than we have at our command." In 1899 the U.S. Treasury Department's Bureau of Statistics was able to prove conclusively that the international exhibitions in which the United States has been interested have had an important and direct effect in its increasing exports. Prior to 1876 the balance of trade had been against the United States. After the [Centennial] exposition the tide turned in favor of this country. U.S. Foreign Trade [in millions of dollars] The Centennial fixed America in the minds of the outside world as a nation of inventors and mechanics instead of a nation of farmers. In The Brothers Karamazov (1882) when Dmitry considers escaping to America he is unable to bear the thought of leaving his beloved Russia "though they were all of them there marvelous engineers, or whatever it is they are there- to hell with them!" The Centennial Exhibition was not intentionally a showcase for technological invention or innovation. Nations and industries wanted to show the best they had to offer, and while this meant newer and advanced models, few were willing to risk demonstrating unproven prototypes. Nevertheless, the Centennial ushered in an unprecedented era of invention as America moved from the age of steam to the age of electricity and the internal combustion engine. The Centennial served to prepare Americans for changes to come, and to prepare them for a wider international role.

Although not a financial success for its investors, the Centennial Exhibition was an immense success in showcasing American culture and industry in a world setting. The benefits of the Centennial to the American economy, foreign relations and wartime recovery were impressive. In 1851 America had been embarrassed by its inability to compete on a par with other nations at the Crystal Palace Exhibiti

Remarks With Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd After Their Meeting Secretary of State SECRETARY CLINTON: Well, I am delighted that we’ve had the opportunity, first with the President and now here at the State Department, to discuss a range of important issues with the Prime Minister and with his delegation. America doesn’t have a better friend in the world than Australia, a friend through good times and hard times on so many of the historic and difficult challenges that have faced the United States and Australia, both singly and together. And we have reaffirmed out commitment to working closely on the range of difficult problems, but also exciting opportunities that lie ahead. PRIME MINISTER RUDD: Thank you very much, Secretary of State. It’s good to be back here in the State Department. I’ve been here many times before, and it’s good to be here with you as Secretary of State. We regard you as a genuine friend of Australia, and it’s good to have had this discussion with you. The Secretary is convening soon a conference in The Hague to galvanize international support for the good people of Afghanistan. This is something which Australia strongly supports. Foreign Minister Smith will be attending. This sort of collaborative effort is important for the future of Afghanistan. It is also further evidence of the strong leadership which we see from the Obama Administration and through the Secretary of State in so many areas of foreign policy. The only other thing I would say is the Secretary of State’s recent visit to East Asia, I believe, sent a very strong and positive signal to our part of the world about this Administration’s engagement with the Asian Pacific, which will be such a dynamic part of the 21st century. So, Secretary of State, thank you for hosting me to the State Department today. SECRETARY CLINTON: Thank you so much, Prime Minister. Thank you all. QUESTION: Madame Secretary, one question if you would. The Polish foreign minister was quoted over the weekend with some unusually strong language saying that the Poles had taken considerable risk in agreeing to cooperate in American missile defense plans and that they are waiting on the current Administration’s announcement of its further plans with regard to missile defense and that he hopes that the Polish trust in the Americans was not misplaced. I’m paraphrasing, but it was close to that. Now given the unusual nature of that language, what can you tell us about whether or not the Poles, to put it colloquially, are being left high and dry? SECRETARY CLINTON: Well, we have a very long and deep relationship with Poland and with the Polish Government and the Polish people. We are going to continue to consult with them and work through the issues concerning security that are of, you know, great interest to not only the Poles but all Europeans and the United States. As members of NATO, we take seriously our alliance commitments and I’m very confident that we will work through whatever issues lie ahead on any front. And that’s part of what will be discussed at the upcoming NATO summit. Thank you. Thank you all.

Remarks With Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd After Their Meeting Secretary of State SECRETARY CLINTON: Well, I am delighted that we’ve had the opportunity, first with the President and now here at the State Department, to discuss a range of important issues with the Prime Minister and with his delegation. America doesn’t have a better friend in the world than Australia, a friend through good

Table of Contents Next Section Tumor or Neoplasm - an abnormal growth of tissue; tumors can be benign (not cancer) or malignant (cancer). Cancer - a group of more than 100 diseases characterized by uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. Carcinogen - any substance that causes cancer or helps cancer develop. Risk factor - anything that increases a person's chance of getting a disease such as cancer. Diagnosis - identifying a disease by its signs, symptoms, and laboratory findings; usually the earlier a diagnosis of cancer is made, the better the chance for cure. Stage at diagnosis - describes how far cancer has spread by the time it is diagnosed: Metastasis - the spread of cancer cells to distant areas of the body through the lymph system or the bloodstream. Primary Site - the site in the body where the cancer began; usually cancer is named after the organ in which it started, e.g. breast cancer. It is possible to have more than one primary cancer or multiple primaries at the same site. Histologic classification of cancer - there are many types of cancer even within the same organ of origin; the pathologist classifies cancers based on microscopic examination: International Classification of Diseases - Oncology (IDC-O) - the cancer classification system generally accepted for use in cancer registries; published by the World Health Organization. Epidemiology - the study of the patterns of the occurrence of disease in human populations and the factors that influence these patterns. Incidence - the number of newly diagnosed cases of a disease occurring in a specific population during a specific time period. Incidence rate (or crude incidence rate) - the number of newly diagnosed cases of a disease in a specific population during a specific time period per "x" number of people; usually the time period is one year and "x" number of people is 100,000. Age-specific incidence rate - the number of newly diagnosed cases of a disease in a specific age group in a specific population over a specific time period per "x" number of people in the specific age group; usually five-year age groups (0-4, 5-9, 10-14, etc.), usually the time period is one year and "x" number of people in the specific age group is 100,000. Age standardization (or age-adjustment) - the statistical adjustment of crude rates for differences in age distributions in order to compare rates in different populations; there are two types of standardization, direct and indirect. Age-adjusted incidence rate - a summary incidence rate that takes into account the age distribution of the population. This is routinely done so that comparisons can be made from year to year. Age-adjustment also enables comparisons among geographic areas. There are several methods to age-adjust; direct standardization is the method most commonly used. With this method the age-specific incidence rates of the population of interest (e.g. New Jersey) are applied to a standard population (e.g. 1970 U.S. population). Mortality - the number of deaths due to a disease in a specific population over a specific time period. Mortality rate, age-specific mortality rate, age-adjusted mortality rate - analogous to the incidence rate, age-specific incidence rate, and age-adjusted incidence rate, except deaths rather than newly diagnosed cases are the numerator.

Table of Contents Next Section Tumor or Neoplasm - an abnormal growth of tissue; tumors can be benign (not cancer) or malignant (cancer). Cancer - a group of more than 100 diseases characterized by uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. Carcinogen - any substance that causes cancer or helps cancer develop. Risk factor - anything that increases a person's chance of getting a disease such

Project Title: Repair Cliff Ridge Road (FFS #R1GE) Project Description: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, an agency of the Department of the Interior, has overseen the completion of a road improvement project at the Lake Pend Oreille National Wildlife Refuge as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The project was funded using $59,172 in stimulus dollars. The funding was used to improve Cliff Ridge Road (Rte 013) at the Refuge, correcting deficiencies in the 0.85-mile, 14-foot wide native surface road by reconstructing the roadbed, side-slopes and ditches, and regraveling and compacting the road surface. The work was performed by Northern Management Services, a construction and general contracting company based in Sandpoint, Idaho. “This project provides for our regular maintenance to a road in need of regular repair,” Little Pend Oreille NWR Manager Steve Fowler said. “The project allows for improved, safe access to our 42,000-acre Refuge.” In addition to the grading work, Northern Management Services also constructed safety pullouts and updated signage on Cliff Ridge Road. The Little Pend Oreille NWR is a forested Refuge in mountainous terrain that gets heavy snowfall and a seasonal cycle of freezing and thawing. This combined with spring run-off makes road maintenance a constant concern. Most of the Refuge roads are constructed of native dirt and provide both public and management access, including access for logging and fire emergencies. The native material is subject to erosion and excessive wear and tear. This results in high maintenance costs and the eroded material invariably ends up in our streams and rivers. “Most of our roads should get some maintenance on an annual basis, but the reality is they don’t get that much attention because we are short staffed in our maintenance cadre,” Fowler said. “We have done this on many miles of Refuge roads over the past 15 years to good effect. This will provide a surface we can work with and re-establish the ditches necessary to effective water control. The most cost effective way to mitigate the road surface issues is to provide a more durable and lower maintenance armored surface through the use of a rock base and gravel cap. The done on the Cliff Ridge Road was a rehab and lift of the road surface by placing rock and gravel to a final uncompacted depth of 10 inches. The is located in northeast Washington, 13 miles southeast of Colville in Stevens County. Located on the west slope of the Selkirk Mountain Range, it is the only mountainous, mixed-conifer forest refuge in the lower 48 states. It was established in 1939 to provide a refuge and breeding ground for migratory birds and other wildlife. |The road after construction.| |The road before construction.| Originally posted 10/28/2009 Page Completed 03/31/2011

Project Title: Repair Cliff Ridge Road (FFS #R1GE) Project Description: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, an agency of the Department of the Interior, has overseen the completion of a road improvement project at the Lake Pend Oreille National Wildlife Refuge as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The project was funded using $59,172 in stimulus dollars. The funding was used to im

A Surprise November Meteor Shower? Space Science News home A surprise November meteor shower? On November 11, 1999 Earth will pass close to the orbit of newly-discovered Comet LINEAR C/1999J3. The result could be a new meteor shower -- the Linearids. November 5, 1999: The Earth is headed for a close encounter with the orbit of a newly discovered comet. Found by the Lincoln Near-Earth Asteroid Research (LINEAR) team on May 12th, Comet LINEAR (C/1999 J3) brightened to 9th magnitude as it made its closest approach to the Sun in September. On November 11, 1999 at 1941 UT, Earth will arrive at a point in space just 0.0115 AU from the orbit of the comet, 40 days after the comet itself was in the area. If there is a residual swarm of dusty debris left over from the comet's passage, we could be in for an unexpected meteor outburst -- the first known apparition of the 'Linearids.' The International Meteor Organization (IMO) has issued a call for meteor observations during a 48 hour period centered on November 11. Linearid meteors -- if they materialize -- will appear to emanate from the bowl of the Big Dipper. The shower's radiant will be near right ascension 11h40m and declination +53 degrees. Sign up for our EXPRESS SCIENCE NEWS delivery Nevertheless, astronomers say it's still worth watching. "As to what type of activity might be expected," says meteor expert Joe Rao, "it should be noted that the 1985 Giacobinids briefly produced an outburst of 600 to 800 [meteors per hour] from Japan, with the Earth following comet Giacobini-Zinner to its node by just 26.5 days. The separation between the orbit of the comet and Earth was 0.033 -- or three times the separation between the upcoming case of Earth and C/1999J3." "In 1933, when a major Giacobinid storm (3000 - 29000 meteor per hour) occurred, these values were 80 days and 0.005 a.u. Earth is following comet LINEAR to its descending node by ~39.9 days. Hence, the situation regarding the prospective Linearids is roughly midway between the two above cases." These similarities are encouraging, says Rao, but they may not be significant. "Giacobini-Zinner is a well-known short-period comet of 6.5 years and has been observed to circle the Sun on many other occasions, whereas LINEAR is a newly discovered long-period object of ~63,000 years. In addition, the dust-distribution surrounding LINEAR is completely unknown." The phase of the Moon will be just past new on November 11, so observers outside of urban areas will enjoy very dark skies. Unfortunately for North Americans, Earth makes its closest approach to comet LINEAR's orbit at 2:41 p.m. EST (1941 UT) when it is broad daylight across the United States. If the meteor shower occurs at this time, then observers in Asia will be favored. However, meteor showers are notoriously difficult to predict -- much like weather on Earth -- and interested observers everywhere should be prepared to watch for activity between midnight and dawn local time on November 10, 11, and 12. For more information about how to observe the Linearids visually, click here. In the United States, where the peak of the Linearid shower might take place during the day, radio observations may provide the only way to "see" these meteors. Linearid meteoroids will strike Earth's atmosphere at a velocity of about 52 km/s. When fast-moving meteoroids like these plummet through our atmosphere they heat and ionize the air in their path. The luminous ionized trails are not only visually striking (if seen at night) but they also reflect radio waves. During a major meteor shower, radio signals from TV stations, RADAR facilities, and AM/FM transmitters are constantly bouncing off short lived meteor trails. For those who know how to listen, it's easy to hear the echoes. Above: Artist's concept of radio meteor observing. Meteor trains reflect transmissions from stations that are over the horizon, and normally impossible to detect. Whenever a meteor passes by with the correct geometry, listeners hear a brief "ping" on the receiver's loudspeaker. more information from the North American Meteor Network. One of the advantages of radio observing is that meteors can be detected when skies are cloudy or during daylight. Radio observing has some advantages at night, too. The human eye can only see shooting stars brighter than 6th magnitude, but radio methods can detect meteors that are at least 5 times dimmer. If you're interested in detecting radio Linearids, the procedures are relatively simple. You'll need a good commercial radio receiver and an aerial. Although meteor trains can reflect radio waves at almost any frequency, the best frequencies to try are usually between 50 and 120 MHz. Many observers use a common FM radio tunable between 88 and 108 MHz and a Yagi FM/TV antenna. During a meteor shower tune your receiver to a distant transmitter between 200 and 1000 miles away. Commercial radio stations, TV stations, and radar transmitters are all suitable if located at the correct distance. Under normal circumstances the transmitter should be difficult or impossible to detect, but when a meteor intervenes the signal hops over the horizon and a brief fragment of the transmission can be heard. Depending on the type of the transmitter it might sound like a tone, a bit of music or voice, or simply noise. Contact lasts for as long as the meteor train persists, usually from 100 milliseconds to a few seconds. Stan Nelson of Roswell, NM, captured this radar echo from a meteor on April 11, 1999. He used an ICOM R8500 communications receiver to monitor 217 MHz transmissions from the Navy Space Surveillance Radar located in Lake Kickapoo, TX. 217 MHz would normally be considered a poor frequency for meteor observations, but the tremendous power of the Naval Space Surveillance radar (NAVSPASUR) more than compensates for its less-than-optimum transmission frequency. NAVSPASUR is an excellent transmitter for meteor observers across the southern United States. For more information about meteor observing with NAVSPASUR, please see the Dec. 1998 Science@NASA article The Ghosts of Fireballs Past. To learn more about radio meteor observing in general, see the North American Meteor Network radio meteor tutorial. How to View the Linearids Experts aren't sure what time is best to try observing the Linearids because so little is known about the distribution of dust around the parent comet. Earth will pass closest to the comet's orbit on November 11 at 1941 UT, or 2:41 p.m. Eastern Standard Time. If the shower peaks at that time, observers in Asia will be favored. In North America it will be broad daylight. Since so little is known about this new comet, it is probably unwise to place too much confidence in the orbit crossing time 1941 UT. The author recommends monitoring the sky between local midnight and dawn on November 10, 11, and 12. ("Local midnight" means midnight wherever you live.) The the best time to look for meteors is almost always just before dawn. That's when the Earth's orbital motion is headed most directly into the cometary debris stream. Above:The rate of meteor activity is usually greatest near dawn because the earth's orbital motion is in the direction of the dawn terminator. Earth scoops up meteoroids on the dawn side of the planet and outruns them on the dusk side. You won't need binoculars or a telescope to observe Linearid meteors, the naked eye is usually best for seeing "shooting stars," which often streak more than 45 degrees across the sky. The field of view of most binoculars and telescopes is simply too narrow for good meteor observations. Experienced observers suggest the following viewing strategy: Dress warmly. Bring a reclining chair, or spread a thick blanket over a flat spot of ground. Lie down and look up somewhat toward the north star. Meteors can appear in any part of the sky, although their trails will tend to point back toward the radiant, pictured in the sky map below. The red dot shows the region of the sky from which the Linearid meteors might emanate. This point, called the radiant, is really an optical illusion - the meteors are moving along parallel paths, but appear to come from a single point, just as a stretch of parallel railroad tracks will appear to meet at a point on the horizon. Comet LINEAR C/1999J3 - From Gary Kronk's Comets & Meteors Web Site Leonids Live! -site of the live webcast of the 1999 Leonids North American Meteor Network - home page Tuning in to April meteor showers -- Apr. 27, 1999. Amateur astronomers capture radio echoes from fiery meteors in April 99. April's Lyrid meteor shower -- Apr. 21, 1999. The oldest known meteor shower peaks this year on April 22. A Wild Ride to the Stratosphere in Search of Meteors -- Apr. 14, 1999. The payload from the NASA Meteor Balloon has been recovered. Meteor Balloon set for Launch -- Apr. 9, 1999. NASA scientists prepare to launch a weather balloon designed to capture micrometeoroids in the stratosphere. Leonid Sample Return Update -- Apr. 1, 1999. Scientists will describe initial results from a program to catch meteoroids in flight at the NASA/Ames Leonids Workshop April 12-15, 1999. The Ghost of Fireballs Past -- Dec. 22, 1998. RADAR echoes from Leonid and Geminid meteors. Bunches & Bunches of Geminids -- Dec. 15, 1998. The Geminids continued to intensify in 1998 The 1998 Leonids: A bust or a blast? -- Nov. 27, 1998. New images of Leonid fireballs and their smokey remnants. Leonids Sample Return payload recovered! -- Nov. 23, 1998. Scientists are scanning the "comet catcher" for signs of Leonid meteoroids. Early birds catch the Leonids -- Nov. 19, 1998. The peak of the Leonid meteor shower happened more than 14 hours earlier than experts had predicted. A high-altitude look at the Leonids -- Nov. 18, 1998. NASA science balloon catches video of 8 fireballs. The Leonid Sample Return Mission -- Nov. 16, 1998. NASA scientists hope to capture a Leonid meteoroid and return it to Earth. Great Expectations: the 1998 Leonid meteor shower -- Nov. 10, 1998. The basics of what the Leonids are and what might happen on November 17. Join our growing list of subscribers - sign up for our express news delivery and you will receive a mail message every time we post a new story!!! For more information, please contact:| Dr. John M. Horack , Director of Science Communications Curator: Linda Porter NASA Official: M. Frank Rose

A Surprise November Meteor Shower? Space Science News home A surprise November meteor shower? On November 11, 1999 Earth will pass close to the orbit of newly-discovered Comet LINEAR C/1999J3. The result could be a new meteor shower -- the Linearids. November 5, 1999: The Earth is headed for a close encounter with the orbit of a newly discovered comet. Found by the Lincoln Near-Earth Asteroid Rese

It's easy to search with Ultraseek. Just type in a few words or phrases. Try to use discriminating terms that are likely to be found only in the documents you seek. The more words you give, the better results you'll get. Here are some examples: Search by typing words and phrases. Pentium computer with 8x CD-ROM for sale Ultraseek will find documents containing as many of these words and phrases as possible, ranked so that the documents most relevant to your query are presented first. Don't worry about missing a document because it doesn't have one of the words in your search -- Ultraseek returns relevant results even if they don't contain all query terms. Identify phrases with quotation marks, separate with Pentium computer with "8x CD-ROM", "for sale" A phrase is entered using double quotation marks, and only matches those words which appear adjacent to each other. Separate multiple phrases or proper names with a comma. Use UPPER case to indicate exact match. Steve Jobs, NeXT Search terms in lowercase will match words in any case, otherwise, an exact case match is used. For example, next will find matches for Next, next, and NeXT, whereas a query for NeXT will only match NeXT.

It's easy to search with Ultraseek. Just type in a few words or phrases. Try to use discriminating terms that are likely to be found only in the documents you seek. The more words you give, the better results you'll get. Here are some examples: Search by typing words and phrases. Pentium computer with 8x CD-ROM for sale Ultraseek will find documents containing as many of these words and phrases as

Magnetism is nothing mysterious. Here is some of what we know: --- Magnetism of iron ("permanent magnetism") makes possible the magnetic compass and lets drawings be stuck to refrigerator doors. But it's just an accident of nature. --- The true nature of the magnetic force is the attraction or repulsion between electric currents. That was discovered by Oersted and by Ampére in 1820. --- The Earth is magnetic because electric currents flow in it (and the same with sunspots). There is no magnet inside it (it has a lot of iron, but it's too hot). --- Electric and magnetic phenomena are closely linked. That link not only makes electric machinery possible, but also radio, microwaves, light and x-rays, all of which are "electromagnetic waves". --- Magnetic fields have no effect on your living tissue. Magnets don't do a thing for your health (or for your car's gas mileage).

Magnetism is nothing mysterious. Here is some of what we know: --- Magnetism of iron ("permanent magnetism") makes possible the magnetic compass and lets drawings be stuck to refrigerator doors. But it's just an accident of nature. --- The true nature of the magnetic force is the attraction or repulsion between electric currents. That was discovered by Oersted and by Ampére in 1820. --- The Earth

Australian Bureau of Statistics 4102.0 - Australian Social Trends, Jun 2010 Previous ISSUE Released at 11:30 AM (CANBERRA TIME) 30/06/2010 |Page tools: Print Page Print All RSS Search this Product| Migration drives growth in population: ABS Australia's recent population growth has mainly been driven by migration, more people are underemployed than are unemployed, the proportion of children in formal child care has increased, and young adults are the least likely to recycle, according to the latest report on Australian Social Trends released today by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). There were 22.2 million people resident in Australia in December 2009, with 432,600 people added in the year to December 2009. Despite recent increases in the fertility rate, nearly two-thirds of the gain was from net overseas migration. In the year to June 2008, there was a doubling in the net gain of people on student visas (to 109,000). ABS projections show, depending on assumptions about migration and fertility, that Australia's population may be between 34 and 40 million in 2051. More than eight out of ten Australian adults were concerned about at least one environmental problem, with seven out of ten concerned about climate change. While people aged 65 and over were less likely to be concerned about climate change, young adults (aged 18 - 24) were the least likely to have taken steps to reduce their electricity consumption or sort their garbage for recyclable waste. The recent economic downturn resulting from the GFC saw a rise in the number of underemployed people from 5.9% to 7.8% of the labour force. Although this has declined since the peak of the GFC to 7.2% in May 2010, this still meant there were 837,000 people who wanted to work more hours and were available to do so, exceeding the number of people who were unemployed (610,000). Underemployment is highest amongst women and younger people. The proportion of children who attend formal child care (such as long day care or after school care) has increased from 17% to 22% over the decade as more mothers join the workforce. Overall, grandparents were the most commonly used form of child care, but children spent less time on average in the care of grandparents than in formal child care. Life expectancy for Australian males has increased to over 79 years, yet remains more than four years less than for women as men have higher death rates for nearly all major causes. Men's general health risk profile was also poorer than that of women, with men more likely to be smokers, overweight and drink at dangerous levels. Feelings of safety One in four adults (or four million Australians) felt unsafe or avoided being in certain situations alone such as using public transport at night or walking after dark in their neighbourhood. Most said they avoided being alone in these situations because they thought it was unsafe. Feeling unsafe was highest among adults who had recently been a victim of crime, and also amongst women and adults living in more disadvantaged areas. More details on these topics are available in the June edition of Australian Social Trends, 2010 (cat.no. 4102.0), available at www.abs.gov.au/socialtrends Media Note: When reporting ABS data you must attribute the Australian Bureau of Statistics (or the ABS) as the source. These documents will be presented in a new window. This page last updated 13 December 2011

Australian Bureau of Statistics 4102.0 - Australian Social Trends, Jun 2010 Previous ISSUE Released at 11:30 AM (CANBERRA TIME) 30/06/2010 |Page tools: Print Page Print All RSS Search this Product| Migration drives growth in population: ABS Australia's recent population growth has mainly been driven by migration, more people are underemployed than are unemployed, the proportion of children in form

Project at a Glance Project Status: complete Title: Demonstration of a diesel fuel-borne catalyst system and low NOx control technology for reducing particulate and NOx emissions. Principal Investigator / Author(s): Michael D. Jackson Contractor: Acurex Environmental Contract Number: 96-334 Research Program Area: Emissions Monitoring & Control Topic Areas: Mobile Sources & Fuels Arthur D. Little, Cummins Engine Company, and Rhodia Rare Earth's performed a project to demonstrate a fuel-borne catalyst system and low NOx control technology for reducing particulate and NOx emissions from on-road diesel engines. The system developed was a combination of cooled, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) coupled with a diesel particulate filter. Cerium catalyst was added to the diesel fuel to assist in filter regeneration. The system was applied to the Cummins B Series (5.9L ISB) diesel engine. Considerable development work was required before a working system could be demonstrated. The filter system initially focused on a compact, low volume silicon carbide design. This system was emission tested and then installed in a UPS package car for demonstration in Southern California. The system was able to achieve NOx levels of 2.5 g /bhp-hr and particulate of 0.03 g/bhp-hr over the transient heavy duty test cycle. Checkout testing prior to entering UPS service indicated filter face plugging. Cummins and Rhodia investigated the reasons for this plugging and tested several alternative filter options. This testing indicated that filter face plugging occurred as a result of unburned fuel during engine restarts and using a high cell density filter (300 cells per square inch). Tests showed reducing the filter density eliminated face plugging. A HJS metallic filter with wide frontal area openings was found to be acceptable, albeit not optimized for the application. The UPS package car operated with the EGR engine alone for 8 months accumulating over 16,000 trouble free miles. The HJS equipped system operated in UPS service for an additional 2 months and accumulated 6,000 miles. Based on the experience obtained in this project, it appears that a combination system of cooled EGR, cerium catalyst in diesel fuel, and particulate filter is feasible for reducing NOx and PM emissions in heavy duty diesel vehicles. However, considerably more work is necessary to commercialize such as system and to make sure that filter regeneration occurs reliability over all vehicle operating modes. For questions regarding research reports, contact: Heather Choi at (916) 322-3893 Stay involved, sign up with ARB's Research Email Listserver

Project at a Glance Project Status: complete Title: Demonstration of a diesel fuel-borne catalyst system and low NOx control technology for reducing particulate and NOx emissions. Principal Investigator / Author(s): Michael D. Jackson Contractor: Acurex Environmental Contract Number: 96-334 Research Program Area: Emissions Monitoring & Control Topic Areas: Mobile Sources & Fuels Arthur D. Little,

BIOLOGICAL CONTROL OF INVASIVE PESTS OF ORCHARD AND VEGETABLE CROPS IN THE SUBTROPICAL SOUTH Project Number: 6204-22000-024-00 Start Date: Apr 21, 2011 End Date: Jan 12, 2012 1. Develop an improved detection and monitoring system for the Asian citrus psyllid (ACP) as part of an areawide management program. 1A. Characterize the odors emitted by citrus and other ACP host-plants. 1B. Optimize the attractiveness of scent lures to ACP. 1C. Evaluate the efficacy of scent attractants in orchards. 2. Develop biological control strategies for Asian citrus psyllid (and, as needed, other orchard pests such as glassy-winged sharpshooter), especially in organic citrus orchards and non-commerical citrus, using alternative host plants and augmentative methods based on food sprays and aromatic attractants. 2A. Characterize the identity and impact of natural enemy complexes on ACP in south Texas. 2B. Develop methods for using pathogenic fungi to suppress ACP. 2C. Determine the origin of ACP that invaded Texas in order to collect pre-adapted natural enemies. 2D. Genetically characterize geographic populations of Tamarixia radiata, a parasitoid of ACP, to provide accurate identifications, uncover genetic variation or new biotypes, identify new species, and define geographic origin(s). 3. Develop IPM and conservation control programs for key pests of subtropical vegetable crops, including the potato psyllid (vector of zebra chip disease in potatoes) and silverleaf whitefly in watermelons. 3A. Conduct a regional sampling plan for potato psyllid, Bactericera cockerelli, to determine its seasonal phenology and association with the putative pathogen of zebra chip disease, Candidatus Liberibacter psyllaurous. 3B. Determine how conventional and organic horticultural practices influence the seasonal phenology of the silverleaf whitefly, Bemisia tabaci, and its natural enemies in watermelons. Host plant volatiles of ACP will be characterized and information used to develop scent attractant for ACP. The composition of naturally occuring predaceous arthropod communities and their impact on ACP will be determined. Means will be developed to conserve them and enhance their efficacy. Comparisons will be made between the impact on psyllids from mortality due to predaceous and parasitic arthropods. Molecular tools will be used to identify the classical biological control agents with the best potential for controlling ACP within a given region. An autodisseminator will be developed to promote the spread of pathogenic fungi in ACP populations and reduce their numbers from epizooics. The development of multiple tools to control ACP in backyard citrus will benefit the commerical citrus industry by reducing the numbers of potential vectors that can infect or reinfect orchard trees with HLB.

BIOLOGICAL CONTROL OF INVASIVE PESTS OF ORCHARD AND VEGETABLE CROPS IN THE SUBTROPICAL SOUTH Project Number: 6204-22000-024-00 Start Date: Apr 21, 2011 End Date: Jan 12, 2012 1. Develop an improved detection and monitoring system for the Asian citrus psyllid (ACP) as part of an areawide management program. 1A. Characterize the odors emitted by citrus and other ACP host-plants. 1B. Optimize the att

Laws, Regulations & Annotations Business Taxes Law Guide – Revision 2013 Sales and Use Tax Annotations 580.0013 Automobile Kit—Unassembled. A California resident who purchases an unassembled automobile kit from an out-of-state retailer for use in California is liable for use tax measured by the purchase price of the kit. Since the item was purchased for use in California, the California resident (purchaser) should contact the local Board of Equalization district office and pay tax measured by the purchase price of the unassembled automobile kit. Once the tax liability has been paid in full, the Board's local district office will issue Form BT-111, Certificate of Motor Vehicle or Mobilehome Use Tax Exemption. The purchaser should then submit the Form BT-111 to the Department of Motor Vehicles at the time of the registration of the vehicle. 3/29/96.

Laws, Regulations & Annotations Business Taxes Law Guide – Revision 2013 Sales and Use Tax Annotations 580.0013 Automobile Kit—Unassembled. A California resident who purchases an unassembled automobile kit from an out-of-state retailer for use in California is liable for use tax measured by the purchase price of the kit. Since the item was purchased for use in California, the California resident (

Coordinating Center for Health Promotion National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Promotion The National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (NCCDPHP) continues to look at the important links between chronic disease and genetics. Augmenting the work of the Office of Genomics and Disease Prevention, NCCDPHP is growing the science around some of the leading causes of death – diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Today, we know that many chronic diseases are preventable and will become more fully understood only when both the genetic and environmental contributions to their etiology are known. CDC is committed to advancing the science to improve health and prevent and control chronic diseases. The following document highlights CDC supported chronic disease/genomics activities, including epidemiologic studies, planning and policy activities, and dissemination and education efforts. Exploring the Links between Chronic Diseases and Family History One of the primary activities, a collaborative effort of OGDP and NCCDPHP, is the Family History Public Health Initiative, which began in 2002 with an extensive literature review and a subsequent paper that examined the idea of using family history for disease prevention. NCCDPHP participates in OGDP’s Family History Work Group, which was formed to conduct research and develop a family history tool for disease prevention. The multidisciplinary group has established criteria for diseases to include in a family history tool, reviewed the literature for nearly 40 diseases, and developed a prototype tool with 16 diseases. Ongoing work includes pilot studies to further refine the tool, development of algorithms to assess risk, development of a resource manual for primary care providers, and design and funding of studies to evaluate the validity and utility of the approach. Family History of Cancer and Cancer Screening Little data are available on the use of screening tests among individuals with a family history of cancer. Using data from the 2000 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), a logistic regression model is being used to examine the association between first-degree family history of cancer and receipt of a recent screening test (mammography, prostate specific antigen, and colonoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopy) among persons who had at least one screening test, adjusting for age, race, gender, education, income, marital status, and health insurance coverage. Genetic Testing for Breast and Ovarian Cancer Susceptibility: Evaluating Direct-to-Consumer Marketing Breast and ovarian cancer are the second and fifth leading causes of cancer death, respectively, among women in the United States . Mutations in two genes, BRCA1 and BRCA2 (BRCA1/2), are associated with predisposition for inherited breast and ovarian cancer and are identified in 5% to 10% of women with breast or ovarian cancer (BOC). Since 1996, genetic testing for these mutations has been available clinically; however, population-based screening is not recommended because of the complexity of test interpretation and limited data on clinical validity and utility. Despite the test’s limited applicability in the general population, the U.S. provider of clinical BRCA1/2 testing (Myriad Genetic Laboratories, Inc., Salt Lake City, Utah) conducted a pilot direct-to-consumer (DTC) marketing campaign in two cities (Atlanta, Georgia, and Denver, Colorado) during September 2002–February 2003. Although DTC advertisements have been used to raise consumer awareness about pharmaceuticals, this was the first time an established genetic test was marketed to the public. To assess the impact of the campaign on consumer behaviors and healthcare provider practices, CDC and the respective state health departments for the pilot cities and two comparison cities (Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina, and Seattle, Washington) surveyed consumers and providers. This report summarizes results of those surveys, which indicated that consumer and provider awareness of BRCA1/2 testing increased in the pilot cities and that providers in these cities perceived an impact on their practice (e.g., more questions asked about testing, more BRCA1/2 tests requested, and more tests ordered). However, in all four cities, providers often lacked knowledge to talk to patients about inherited BOC and testing. These findings underscore the need for evidence-based recommendations on appropriate use of genetic tests and education of providers and the public to achieve maximum individual and public health benefit from genetic testing. This project is a collaboration between NCCDPHP and OGDP. Genomics and Chronic Disease: What Project Officers Need to Know CDC, in conjunction with the Universities of Michigan, North Carolina , and Washington , presented “ Genomics and Chronic Disease: What Project Officers Need to Know” in June 2004. This workshop was designed to provide an introduction to genomics to NCCDPHP project officers and help them better understand how existing chronic disease programs – particularly in the areas of diabetes and cancer – have incorporated genomics into their existing programs. CDC and its partners continue to support an I nternet-based teaching module on Hereditary Hemochromatosis for health professionals and the public, including the development and dissemination of education materials, which include the patient brochure Iron Overload and Hemachromatosis: Information for Patients and Family. Johnston County Osteoarthritis Project This ongoing community-based cohort study of rural white and black persons to determine the prevalence, incidence, and factors associated with the occurrence or progression of hip and knee osteoarthritis includes a genomics component for examining genes (HH, COMP, COL2A, others to be determined) that may be linked to osteoarthritis and related conditions. The study is conducted by the University of North Carolina with CDC funding and collaboration. Oregon Sudden Unexplained Death Study Despite current medical knowledge, sudden cardiac death – or the sudden failure of heart rhythm – is unexplained in up to 15 percent of cases. The Oregon Sudden Unexplained Death Study (SUDS) Group, funded by CDC, is conducting research on the mechanisms of sudden cardiac death. This prospective study of all patients suffering sudden cardiac death in Multnomah County , Oregon , will develop a comprehensive database describing patients’ medical histories, including clinical findings, pathologic data, and genetic analysis. State Capacity Grants for Integrating Genomics into Chronic Disease Prevention Programs State and community health agencies recognize the need to augment existing genetics expertise in maternal and child health and newborn screening capacity to integrate genomics into a wider range of disease control and prevention programs. To develop this capacity, NCCDPHP established cooperative agreements with state health departments in Michigan , Minnesota , Oregon , and Utah to strengthen leadership and promote coordination in programs for genomics and chronic disease prevention. Through these agreements, those states are working on a variety of projects over a five year period from 2003 to 2008. These projects include integrating genomics and family history into ongoing and new population-based strategies for identifying and reducing the burden of specific chronic, infectious, and other diseases; enhancing planning and coordination for integrating genomics into core state public health specialties (such as epidemiology, laboratory activities, and environmental health); and facilitating the use of family history and new knowledge about gene-environment interactions to enhance chronic disease prevention. This project is a collaboration between NCCDPHP and OGDP. Stroke Prevention in Young Women A population-based case control study examining gene-environment interactions in the risk of stroke, the study will determine the prevalence of genetic polymorphisms in the population, gene-environment interactions in stroke risk. The study also will determine the population-attributable fraction associated with genetic risk factors and gene-environment interaction. The study is conducted in collaboration with University of Maryland. In 2005 and beyond, NCCDPHP will continue its work in genomics in the following priorities areas: - Foster efforts to use family history to promote health – particularly through support and expansion of CDC’s family history project. - Support state based grants to build capacity in states to understand the links and importance of family history in chronic disease prevention and health promotion. - Promote communication and policy efforts to foster the public’s understanding of genomics and the role in health promotion.

Coordinating Center for Health Promotion National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Promotion The National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (NCCDPHP) continues to look at the important links between chronic disease and genetics. Augmenting the work of the Office of Genomics and Disease Prevention, NCCDPHP is growing the science around some of the leading causes of

Guidelines for the Submission of Tissue Specimens for the Pathologic Evaluation of Influenza Virus Infections This website is archived for historical purposes and is no longer being maintained or updated. For updated information on the current flu season, see the CDC Seasonal Flu website. May 23, 2009 11:30 AM ET This guidance has been updated to refine the specimen sampling recommendations and to provide more detailed shipping instructions. Important Note: Advance consultation is required for the submission of all cases. Please use the contact information provided below: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Coordinating Center for Infectious Diseases National Centers for Zoonotic, Vector-Borne & Enteric Diseases Division of Viral & Rickettsial Diseases Infectious Diseases Pathology Branch Phone: (404) 639-3133 Fax: (404) 639-3043 Viral antigens and nucleic acids may be focal and sparsely distributed in patients with influenza. Extensive sampling of both upper and lower airway ensures the best chance of detecting the virus by immunohistochemical stains, PCR tests and culture. Collection of tissue specimens: The preferred specimens would be fresh frozen and wet fixed tissue specimens representing extensive samples from the following pulmonary sites in addition to specimens from other organs showing pathology. - Central (hilar) lung with segmental bronchi, right and left primary bronchi, trachea (proximal and distal) - Representative pulmonary parenchyma from right and left lung - For patients with suspected myocarditis, encephalitis, rhabdomyalysis or gastrointestinal symptoms, specimens should include myocardium (right and left ventricle), CNS (cerebral cortex, basal ganglia, pons, medulla, and cerebellum), skeletal muscle and gastrointestinal tract, respectively. - Specimens should be included from any other organ showing significant gross or microscopic pathology. Submission of specimens: - Wet tissue: Multiple 1 x 2 cm pieces of tissue from sites listed above in 10% neutral buffered formalin - Fresh-frozen tissue: (sent separately on dry ice) Single piece of tissue as listed above - Paraffin-embedded tissue blocks: Blocks can be submitted in addition to wet and fresh-frozen and is the preferred specimen to submit in cases where tissues have been in formalin for a significant time. Prolonged fixation (>2 weeks) may interfere with some immunohistochemical and molecular diagnostic assays. REQUIRED supporting electronic or hard-copy documentation: - The full name, title, complete mailing address, e-mail address, phone and fax numbers of the submitter(s). (This is whom will receive a copy of the final report) - A brief clinical history - Copy of the preliminary or final pathology report including, if available, digital photos of gross specimens - Copy of any pertinent laboratory reports (including rapid antigen, culture, and PCR test results) |Room Temperature||Frozen (dry-ice2 )| |Formalin-fixed wet tissues. Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded blocks.1 |Fresh frozen tissue.| - Domestic packages should preferably be shipped Monday-Thursday for receipt by Friday. - In certain priority cases and with advance consultation, arrangements can be made for receipt of packages on Saturday. - Please provide us (via email to [email protected]) with the shipper’s package tracking number(s) as soon as available so that proper receipt and processing of the specimens can occur. A shipment inventory is also appreciated and can follow the email notification of the tracking information. - International packages should also be shipped as above for domestic packages and will require an import permit. This permit can be provided following consultation. - U.S. Federal holidays should be taken into consideration before shipping the packages. Exceptions can be made on urgent cases with prior approval. - See packing instructions below. Specific regulations for packaging, labeling, and shipping may be found at these websites: SPECIMENS: Shipping/Packing, IATA Cargo , and World Health Organization. - During the warmer months (June-Aug), in order to prevent the melting of paraffin-embedded tissue blocks during transit, it is advisable to ship the block(s) with a frozen gel ice-pack. - When shipping frozen specimens from long distances or from international locations, it is best to use a combination of dry-ice and frozen gel ice-packs. The gel ice-packs will remain frozen for a day or two after the dry-ice has dissipated. PACKING DIAGNOSTIC SPECIMENS FOR TRANSPORT - Primary container must be water tight, seal screw top containers with adhesive tape, parafilm, or something similar is acceptable. - The total volume of liquid or weight of primary containers must not exceed 4L (liquids) or 4 kg (solids). Individual primary containers cannot contain more than 1L liquids. - Wrap primary containers individually in sealable plastic bags (e.g. Ziploc) with absorbent material to prevent breakage or in case of damage. - Use additional and sufficient absorbent material around the primary packaging in the secondary packaging to absorb the entire contents of all primary containers in case of leakage or damage. - Secondary packaging must meet the IATA packaging requirements for diagnostic specimens including 1.2 meter (3.9 feet) drop test procedure. - Must be large enough for all markings, labels, and shipping documents (e.g., air waybill). - Both dry ice and cold packs must be placed inside insulated packaging, for example Styrofoam box. Outer packaging will be necessary for such packages, see below. - Dry ice: packaging must permit the release of carbon dioxide gas and not allow a build-up of pressure that could rupture the packaging. Must place Class 9 diamond label and UN 1845 Carbon dioxide, solid (Dry ice) marking along with the weight of the dry ice in kilograms on exterior of package. - Cold packs must be leak-proof. - An overpack must be used if cold packs or dry ice is used OR if the secondary packaging is not large enough for all the labels, markings, and documents. - If shipping/mailing through the US Postal System, the weight of the dry ice cannot exceed 5 pounds. If shipping via courier or airline, the weight of the dry ice per outer packaging cannot exceed 200 kg (approx 400 pounds). For overnight shipments use a minimum of 6 kg / 12 pounds of dry ice. For international shipments, add 3 kg / 6 pounds per day expected to be in transit. - An itemized list of contents must be enclosed just inside the outermost packaging layer. Place in a sealed plastic bag to protect from moisture. - Each package and the air waybill must be marked with the following text: The name, address, and telephone number of the responsible person submitting must be on the package and the air waybill. All specimens should be addressed to: Infectious Diseases Pathology Branch (IDPB) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) 1600 Clifton Road, N.E. MS: G32 (Bldg. 18/Rm. SB130) Atlanta, GA 30333 The package must be labeled as “BIOLOGICAL SUBSTANCE, CATEGORY B” and “UN 3373” in the “Nature and Quantity of Goods” box on the air waybill and outer packaging. Get email updates To receive weekly email updates about this site, enter your email address: - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 1600 Clifton Rd Atlanta, GA 30333 TTY: (888) 232-6348 24 Hours/Every Day

Guidelines for the Submission of Tissue Specimens for the Pathologic Evaluation of Influenza Virus Infections This website is archived for historical purposes and is no longer being maintained or updated. For updated information on the current flu season, see the CDC Seasonal Flu website. May 23, 2009 11:30 AM ET This guidance has been updated to refine the specimen sampling recommendations and to

The acronym ZCTA should be pronounced zik'tah. Census 2000 and 2010 Census ZCTAs were created for all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Later releases of 2010 Island Areas products will include 2010 ZCTAs for American Samoa, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands, and the United States Virgin Islands. Large water bodies and unpopulated land area such as national parks were excluded from the 2010 delineations, and for this reason the Census 2010 product does not have complete national coverage. For the Census 2000 product, there were 33,178 ZCTAs nationwide (all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico), including generic three-digit ZCTAs. Of that total, 32,038 ZCTAs carried the full five-digit numeric ZIP Code. The remainder had a generic code ending in either “HH” or “XX” suffix. For the 2010 Census, there are 33,120 ZCTAs. All 2010 Census ZCTAs are full five-digit ZCTAs. No three-digit ZCTAs will be published, nor will any ZCTAs be published with an “HH” or “XX” suffix. Large water bodies and unpopulated land area such as national parks were excluded from the 2010 delineations, and for this reason the Census 2010 product does not have complete national coverage. For Census 2000 counts, refer to the Census 2000 Tabulation Entity Counts site. 2010 Census counts will be released at a later date. U.S. Postal Service ZIP Codes are designed to meet the day-to-day operational needs of the U.S. Postal Service and tend to change more frequently than every ten years. They are networks of streets served by mail carriers or just individual post offices and are a tool for mail delivery. They change periodically as required to meet U.S. Postal Service operational needs. In creating ZCTAs, the Census Bureau took the most frequently occurring ZIP Code used by addresses in an area for the ZCTA code. Therefore, some addresses will end up with a ZCTA code different from their ZIP Code. Some ZIP Codes represent very few addresses (sometimes only one). If a ZIP Code was never the most frequently occurring ZIP Code in an area during the ZCTA delineation process, the ZIP Code will not appear in the ZCTA universe. The Census Bureau did not produce a 2000 ZIP Code to 2000 ZCTA relationship file. We created the ZCTAs specifically to address the inadequacies of ZIP Codes for census data tabulation. For those who may want to do this, the TIGER/Line® files show address ranges with mailing ZIP Codes. These files can be processed using a GIS to compare the ZCTA code for a block to the mailing ZIP Code associated with the address ranges on each block side. Such a comparison can provide a general idea of how the two relate. The relationship between ZIP Code and ZCTA can be determined fully only by comparing individual block-geocoded addresses to the ZCTAs. This process is quite involved. Some examples of why the process can become quite involved are as follows: ZCTAs follow census block boundaries. In contrast, USPS ZIP Codes serve addresses with no correlation to census block boundaries; therefore, the area covered by a ZCTA may include mailing addresses associated with ZIP Codes that are not the same as the ZCTA. A ZCTA may include a mailing address with a unique or PO Box ZIP Code that is ineligible to become a ZCTA. Addresses with PO Box ZIP Codes generally cluster around a post office, but they may be widely scattered across several ZCTAs. Consequently, the relationships that exist between ZCTAs and ZIP Codes can become quite complicated, so that within the boundaries of a single ZCTA there may exist several ZIP Codes; likewise, within the boundaries of a single ZIP Code, there may exist more than one ZCTA. Some addresses included in the census and used to define ZCTAs (typically in rural areas) have incomplete or, in some cases, no mailing ZIP Code, thus making it difficult to determine the full extent of the relationships between ZCTAs and ZIP Codes. Dedicated PO Box ZIP Codes present a special challenge for ZCTA delineation. While addresses with these ZIP Codes generally cluster around a post office, they may also be widely scattered. Additionally, there may be the option of regular/street delivery present in the areas around these post offices, resulting in a mix of valid USPS ZIP Code options for residents. For ZCTA delineation, the Census Bureau attempted to isolate those PO Box Only ZIP Codes for which there was a relatively compact, well-defined cluster of census blocks where the majority of residents chose or were required to receive their mail via PO Box delivery. For areas where the households receiving their mail via PO Box delivery are more widely scattered and intermixed with households receiving mail via regular/street delivery, the delineation process gives preference to the street delivery ZIP Code. The ZCTA delineation process included both residential and commercial addresses. A ZIP Code representing a commercial district may appear as a ZCTA if the ZIP Code serves the majority of the addresses for the census blocks in the area. For the 2000 Census, individual firms or organizations with their own ZIP Codes were automatically excluded and did not become ZCTAs. 2,523 of these unique ZIP Codes were excluded from Census 2000 ZCTA delineation. However, for the 2010 ZCTA delineation these addresses were included in the universe, to include many group quarters, and other businesses and institutions with such large mail volumes that they have been assigned a unique ZIP Code by the US Postal Service. This was a convention used in the Census 2000 ZCTAs, but was not used for the 2010 ZCTAs. The three-digit ZCTA code and an "XX" suffix are applied to a large land area (generally larger than 25 square miles) where we had insufficient information to determine the five-digit codes. The USPS may not provide five-digit ZIP Code delivery service in this area. These are generally rural areas with little settlement; for example, parks, forest lands, and desert and mountainous areas. Smaller areas were generally absorbed into adjacent five-digit ZCTAs, but for larger areas, we did not want to overextend the surrounding five-digit ZCTAs. For Census 2000, the requirements for ZCTA delineation state that all census blocks receive a ZCTA code. Because large water features may border many five-digit ZCTAs, it would be difficult to divide up the water features and assign the parts to the five-digit ZCTAs on the land. Furthermore, any attempt to add these water features to land-based ZCTAs would greatly distort the size and shape of the land ZCTAs, particularly in coastal areas. To avoid these problems, such water features receive ZCTA codes ending in "HH" (special code for hydrographic features). For the 2010 Census, there were no “XX” or “HH” ZCTAs assigned. Only five-digit ZCTAs were produced, and large unpopulated areas were excluded from the delineations. For the 2010 Census, there is no wall-to-wall national coverage for ZCTAs. The requirements for the Census 2000 ZCTA delienation state that all census blocks receive a ZCTA Code. Because large water features may border many five-digit 2000 ZCTAs, it would be difficult to divide up the water features and assign the parts to the five-digit 2000 ZCTAs on the land. Furthermore, any attempt to add these water features to land-based ZCTAs would greatly distort the size and shape of the land ZCTAs, particularly in coastal areas. To avoid these problems for the Census 2000 delineation, such water features receive ZCTA codes ending in "HH" (special code for hydrographic features). Note that a single code could not be used for all water areas for data processing reasons. This classification scheme was not implemented for the 2010 ZCTA delineation. Large water bodies were excluded from the delineation in order to avoid distortion of the 2010 Census ZCTAs. After Census 2000, efforts to improve the spatial accuracy of the TIGER database have and continue to add land area such as small islands or sections of shoreline to census blocks that were entirely water in Census 2000. Census 2000 tabulation census blocks once consisting entirely of water features may now contain a mix of water and small land features. As a result, "HH" ZCTA codes may no longer represent purely water areas. This classification scheme was not implemented for the 2010 ZCTA delineation. Large water bodies were excluded from the delineation in order to avoid distortion for the 2010 Census ZCTAs. ZCTAs are approximations of mailing ZIP Codes and should not be confused with them. There are some common reasons why someone's ZIP Code may not match the ZCTA code: Based on the January 2000 list of ZIP Codes from the USPS's Delivery Type File, the Census 2000 ZCTA delineation process excluded 10,068 ZIP Codes in the United States and Puerto Rico (not counting overseas military ZIP Codes). These included 2,523 ZIP Codes that served specific companies or organizations with high volumes of mail and 6,419 ZIP Codes dedicated to PO Box and/or general delivery addresses primarily located in areas otherwise served by rural route or city style mail delivery. The remainder represents ZIP Codes that were either nonactive or insufficiently represented in the Master Address File (MAF) and therefore did not become ZCTAs. ZCTAs almost always exist within a single state but are independent of all other statistical and governmental entities except census tabulation blocks. While data from the USPS may indicate that a given governmental entity is serviced by a single ZIP Code, that should not be taken to indicate that every household in that entity is serviced by that particular ZIP Code, nor that the indicated ZIP Code services only those addresses located within the boundaries of that governmental entity. Final Census 2000 ZCTA statistics show that 27 percent of Census 2000 ZCTAs cross county or county equivalent boundaries nationwide. There are 47,010 unique Census 2000 ZCTA-county combinations (32,038 are five-digit Census 2000 ZCTAs). Of these five-digit Census 2000 ZCTAs, 42 cross state boundaries. The TIGER/Line Shapefiles provide geographic descriptions of the legal and statistical entities included in census tabulations. By overlaying different layers from the TIGER/Line Shapefiles, data users can generate a wide range of ZCTA-to-block or ZCTA-to-entity relationship data. In addition, the Census Bureau provides a Census 2000 ZCTA-to-Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) relationship file for download, and several 2010 ZCTA-to-2010 Entity files. Discontiguous parts of ZCTAs may represent offshore islands. In other situations, they may result from using census blocks to build ZCTAs. USPS carrier routes tend to extend out along the local street network. Addresses along a street may have one ZIP Code while addresses along the cross streets have another. If a block is characterized by addresses with the ZIP Code of the cross streets it may isolate another block characterized by addresses of the first ZIP Code, and it becomes a discontiguous area. Joining the fragments by changing the ZCTA code for intermediate blocks could degrade the match between ZIP Code and ZCTA. Rather than degrade this match, the ZCTA coverage retains some discontiguous fragments. The USPS may assign several three-digit ZIP Codes to the areas around some cities. The five-digit ZIP Codes within these areas are distributed across the area and do not form specific three-digit clusters. To identify these areas see the USPS maps of three-digit ZIP Codes, located in the 2000 National Five-Digit ZIP Code and Post Office Directory USPS Publication 65. The maps show certain areas with multiple three-digit ZIP Codes. For an example, see the area around Cedar Rapids, Iowa with the three-digit ZIP Codes 522 and 523. If the fragmented areas are problematic for your application, you might try to do what the USPS does in the Publication 65 maps and aggregate the fragmented three-digit areas into a single combined area. Currently, there are no restrictions limiting how large or small a ZCTA can be in terms of either a minimum/maximum number of housing units or geographic area. However, as ZCTAs are comprised of census tabulation blocks, a ZCTA must be composed of at least one census tabulation block. Therefore, ZCTAs reflect the size of the census tabulation blocks in areas where we find addresses with the specified ZIP Code. As a result, ZCTAs may be as small as a few city blocks or cover many square miles. The downloadable Census 2000 and 2010 Census ZCTA gazetteer files contain the total land and water area (in square meters and in square miles) for each Census 2000 and 2010 Census ZCTA. The TIGER/Line Shapefiles also include the land and water area for ZCTAs. You can also get this information from American Factfinder. Use the Geographies tab to select the ZCTAs you are interested in. Then look for table G001, Geographic Identifiers for the appropriate year (2000 or 2010). This table contains both land and water area measurements. The downloadable Census 2000 and 2010 Census ZCTA gazetteer files contain the latitude/longitude coordinates for each Census 2000 and 2010 Census ZCTA. Coordinates for ZCTA internal points (calculated by considering the latitude/longitude of all bounding features and then creating an area-weighted average point inside the polygon) are also available in the TIGER/Line® Shapefiles and in American Factfinder (use the same instructions as those for finding area measurements, as described in the question above, "Does the Census Bureau have any data available on land per ZCTA?"). Even though the codes may appear the same, the addresses and areas covered by these areas may not be the same. We strongly advise data users who wish to compare 1990 and 2000 data to determine and evaluate any coverage differences that exist before making any comparisons. There are several reasons for this caution: For the 2003 TIGER/Line® files, the U.S. Census Bureau produced updated national current ZCTAs reflecting USPS ZIP Code changes through October, 2002. The U.S. Census Bureau also adjusted Census ZCTA boundaries to account for new growth and more precise ZIP Code information, and modified some of the generic “XX” and “HH” ZCTAs to reflect expansion of five-digit ZCTAs and to achieve more consistent “XX” and “HH” coverage within and across county boundaries. “XX” and “HH” ZCTAs were not produced for the five-digit Census 2010 ZCTA product, nor were three-digit ZCTAs produced for the 2010 Census. Five-digit ZCTAs will be released for all Island Areas (U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands) at a later date. The U.S. Census Bureau is not planning another release of ZCTAs until after the 2020 Census. ZCTAs are generalized approximations of USPS five-digit ZIP Codes. There are no plans to create subdivisions of five-digit ZCTAs that approximate the USPS ZIP+4 sector-segment codes.

The acronym ZCTA should be pronounced zik'tah. Census 2000 and 2010 Census ZCTAs were created for all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Later releases of 2010 Island Areas products will include 2010 ZCTAs for American Samoa, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands, and the United States Virgin Islands. Large water bodies and unpopulated land area such as nationa

Mycophenolate Mofetil (MMF) in Patients With IgA Nephropathy IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is the most common type of glomerulonephritis worldwide. 15-40% of individuals diagnosed with IgAN, including children, will eventually progress to chronic renal insufficiency (CRI) and end stage renal disease (ESRD). The study is to evaluate the safety and benefits of MMF in patients with IgAN who have been pre-treated (and continue to be treated) with angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEi) and fish oil supplements (FOS). |Study Design:||Allocation: Randomized Endpoint Classification: Efficacy Study Intervention Model: Parallel Assignment Masking: Double Blind (Subject, Investigator) Primary Purpose: Treatment |Official Title:||A Randomized Controlled Trial of Mycophenolate Mofetil in Patients With IgA Nephropathy| - Fall in proteinuria [ Time Frame: 12 months ] [ Designated as safety issue: No ] - Fall in estimated glomerular filtration rate (GFR) to less than 60% of the baseline level [ Time Frame: 12 months ] [ Designated as safety issue: No ] |Study Start Date:||January 2002| |Study Completion Date:||March 2010| |Primary Completion Date:||March 2008 (Final data collection date for primary outcome measure)| Active Comparator: Mycophenolate Mofetil (MMF) Subjects receive ACEi, FOS, and MMF. Dose is based on body size (between 25mg/kg/day and 36mg/kg/day with a maximum dose 1gm BID; initial dose to be used in the first 2 weeks of therapy will be approximately 1/2-2/3 of the full dose). Route of administration is oral. Frequency is daily. MMF will be administered up to 12 months. Drug: Mycophenolate Mofetil (MMF) Placebo Comparator: Placebo Subjects receive ACEi and FOS and placebo. A multi-center, randomized, controlled clinical trial to test the hypothesis that treatment with mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) will lead to significant and sustained improvement in proteinuria in patients with IgA Nephropathy who have been pre-treated (and continue to be treated) with ACEi and FOS compared to a placebo control group of patients receiving comparable doses of ACEi and FOS without MMF. Data for this outcome will be examined every six months and at the end of 2 years of study. Comparisons will be made between the two treatment groups for change from entry level in urine protein to creatinine (UPr/Cr) ratio, 24-hour urine protein excretion rate and estimated GFR. |United States, Arizona| |St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center| |Phoenix, Arizona, United States, 85013| |Principal Investigator:||Ronald J Hogg, M.D.||St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix|

Mycophenolate Mofetil (MMF) in Patients With IgA Nephropathy IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is the most common type of glomerulonephritis worldwide. 15-40% of individuals diagnosed with IgAN, including children, will eventually progress to chronic renal insufficiency (CRI) and end stage renal disease (ESRD). The study is to evaluate the safety and benefits of MMF in patients with IgAN who have been pre-tr

Prospective Evaluation of Blunt Renal Injury in Children The objective of this study is to evaluate the outcomes of children who have sustained blunt renal injury and to evaluate our current bed rest protocol. The variables of concern are readmission, operation, subsequent hypertension and clearance of hematuria. The specific aim of the study is to prospectively collect the clinical data of these children to validate our hospital management and to define the natural history of these lesions. |Study Design:||Observational Model: Case Control Time Perspective: Prospective |Official Title:||Prospective Evaluation of Blunt Renal Injury in Children| - Hypertension [ Time Frame: 3 years ] [ Designated as safety issue: No ] - Time to clear hematuria [ Time Frame: 2 months ] [ Designated as safety issue: No ] - length of stay [ Time Frame: 2 weeks ] [ Designated as safety issue: No ] - degree of injury [ Time Frame: 1 day ] [ Designated as safety issue: No ] - complications [ Time Frame: 3 years ] [ Designated as safety issue: No ] |Study Start Date:||August 2008| |Estimated Study Completion Date:||August 2015| |Estimated Primary Completion Date:||August 2015 (Final data collection date for primary outcome measure)| All patients who have a discernable injury to the renal parenchyma on CT scan from blunt trauma Other: Attenuated bedrest Patients are allowed to ambulate the morning after admission and then can be discharged when eating well and pain is controlled on oral pain medication regardless of hematuria Other Name: Renal Laceration The current management for blunt renal injury in children is based on level 5 evidence, which is the lowest score. Essentially, empiric decisions about therapy without physiologic rationale have been permeated through generations of teaching. Patients are therefore managed by historical opinion, borrowing some principles from spleen and liver injuries. Over the past few decades all authors have agreed that non-operative management should be followed in all these patients as almost all injuries will heal with preservation of renal function. However, as opposed to spleen and liver injuries, there are no published guidelines for a non-operative management scheme. The kidney possesses important anatomic and physiologic differences when compared to the intraperitoneal solid organs that may allow for a distinct method of management. Therefore, we conducted a retrospective review to examine the natural history of these injuries and identify potential recommendations for management (IRB 07 12-186X). In patients with isolated renal injury (n = 65), mean length of bedrest was 3.8 +/- 1.9 days resulting in a mean length of stay of 3.8 +/- 3.1 days. There were no transfusions in these patients. There were 3 patients readmitted after discharge, 2 for pain control, and one for new hematuria after discharge. There were 15 patients discharged with persistent hematuria, none of whom suffered long term sequelae. Children were released from bedrest in attending-specific manner which was a wide array of management schemes. Our data suggests the risk of significant hemorrhage from blunt renal trauma is low. Further, clearance of hematuria may not be a good marker for therapy. Therefore, a period of bedrest with serial blood and urine monitoring may not be justified, and there is clearly a role for prospective application of a single management protocol to validate at least one protocol for other institutions to follow. In the retrospective data, we found one patient developed intermittent hypertension. However, identifying this one patient requires that the hypertension is documented in our medical record, which means we may miss those patients managed by their pediatricians. More concerning is that we may be missing patients who have hypertension. These potential patients may get well into adulthood before the hypertension is detected which is why this study is imperative to define the natural history of renal healing, quantify the risk of hypertension, and potentially identify predictors of this complication. The management protocol currently being followed and proposed for this study will include one night of bedrest and then the patient may be ambulatory the next day. From this point, patients will be managed in the hospital until they meet general discharge criteria. Discharge criteria are adequate pain control with oral pain medications and tolerating regular diet. |Contact: Shawn D St. Peter, MD||816 983 6479 ext [email protected]| |Contact: Susan W Sharp, PhD||816 983 6670 ext [email protected]| |United States, Missouri| |Children's Mercy Hospital||Recruiting| |Kansas City, Missouri, United States, 64108| |Contact: Shawn D St. Peter, MD 816-983-6479 ext 6465 [email protected]| |Principal Investigator:||Shawn D St. Peter, MD||Children's Mercy Hospital Kansas City|

Prospective Evaluation of Blunt Renal Injury in Children The objective of this study is to evaluate the outcomes of children who have sustained blunt renal injury and to evaluate our current bed rest protocol. The variables of concern are readmission, operation, subsequent hypertension and clearance of hematuria. The specific aim of the study is to prospectively collect the clinical data of these

HOW TO DISCIPLINE YOUR CHILD How do you keep a 1-year-old from heading toward the VCR? What should you do when your preschooler throws a fit? How can you get your adolescent to respect your authority? Find out here how to vary your approach to discipline to best fit your family. Whatever the age of your child, it's important to be consistent in disciplining your child. If you don't stick to the rules and consequences that you set up, your child isn't likely to either. Knowing that babies and toddlers are naturally curious, it's a good idea to eliminate any temptations for your young child to act out. Keep your young child's environment relatively free of no-no’s - items such as VCRs, stereos, jewelry, and especially cleaning supplies and medications should be kept well out of his reach. When your crawling baby or roving toddler heads toward an unacceptable or dangerous play object, calmly say, "No," and redirect your child by either removing him or her from the area or engaging your child's attention with an appropriate activity. Timeouts can be effective discipline for toddlers. A child who has been hitting, biting, or throwing food, for example, should be told why that behavior is unacceptable and taken to a designated timeout area - a kitchen chair or bottom stair - for a minute or two to calm down (longer timeouts are not effective for toddlers). It's important to not spank, hit, or slap a child of any age. Babies and toddlers are especially unlikely to be able to make any connection between their behavior and physical punishment. They will only feel the pain of the hit. And don't forget, kids learn by watching adults, particularly their parents. Make sure your behavior is role-model material. You will make a much stronger impact on your child if he sees you putting your belongings away, too, rather than if you just tell him or her to pick up the toys while you leave your stuff strewn across the kitchen counter. As your child grows and can begin to understand the connection between actions and consequences, make sure you begin to communicate the rules of your family's home. It's important to explain to kids what you expect of them before you punish them for a certain behavior. For instance, the first time your 3-year-old uses crayons to decorate the living room wall, you should discuss why that is not allowed and what will happen if your child does this again. Explain to your child that he or she will have to help clean the wall and will not be able to use the crayons for the rest of the afternoon. If your child draws on the walls again a few days later, it's a good idea to remind your child that crayons are for paper only and then enforce the consequences. The earlier parents can set up this kind of "I set the rules and you're expected to listen or accept the consequences," the better for everyone. Although it's sometimes easier for parents to ignore occasional bad behavior or fail to follow through on some threatened punishment, this risks setting a bad precedent. Consistency is the key to effective discipline. It's important for parents to decide together what the rules are and then be consistent in upholding them. At the same time you become clear on what behaviors will be punished, don't forget to reward good behaviors. And don't underestimate the positive effect that your praise can have on your child. Discipline is not just about punishment. Parents need to remember to recognize good behavior. For example, you could say, "I'm proud of you for sharing your toys at playgroup." This is usually more effective than punishing a child for the opposite behavior - not sharing. And be specific when praising your child; don't just say, "Good job!" If your child is displaying an unacceptable behavior that just won't go away no matter what you do, consider setting up a chart system. Put up a chart with a box for each day of the week on the refrigerator and decide how many chances you'll give your child to display the unacceptable behavior before some punishment kicks in or how long the proper behavior must be displayed before it is rewarded. Then simply keep track by monitoring on a daily basis. This will give your child (and you) a concrete look at how he or she doing. Once this begins to work, don't forget to praise your child for learning to control misbehavior (see bottom of article for additional information on controlling misbehavior) and especially for overcoming any stubborn problem. Timeouts also can work well for children at this stage. Establish a suitable timeout place that is free of distractions and will force your child to think about how he or she has behaved. Remember, getting sent to your room may have meant something in the days before computers, TVs, and video games were stored there. Don't forget to consider the length of time that will best suit your child. Experts say 1 minute for each year of age is a good rule of thumb to follow; others recommend using the timeout until the child is calmed down (to teach self-regulation). It's important to tell your child what the right thing to do is, not just to tell your child what not to do. For example, instead of telling your child: "Don't jump on the couch," you may want to say: "Please sit on the furniture and put your feet on the floor." Timeouts and consequences are also effective discipline strategies with this age group. Again, consistency is crucial, as is following through. Make good on any promises of discipline or else you will risk undermining your authority. Kids have to believe that you mean what you say. This is not to say you can't give second chances or allow your child a certain margin of error, but for the most part, you should follow through with what you say. Be careful not to make unrealistic threats of punishment ("Slam that door and you'll never watch TV again!") in anger, since not following through could weaken all your threats. If you threaten to turn the car around and go home if the squabbling in the backseat doesn't stop, make sure you do exactly that. The lost day at the beach is much less valuable than the credibility you'll gain with your kids. Huge punishments may take away your power as a parent. If you ground your son or daughter for a month, your child may not feel motivated to change his or her behavior because everything has already been taken away. Kids in this age group - just as with all ages - can be disciplined with natural consequences. As they mature and request more independence and responsibility, teaching them to deal with the consequences of their behavior is an effective and appropriate method of discipline. For example, if your fifth grader has not done his or her homework before bedtime, should you make him or her stay up or help him finish? Probably not, since you'll be missing an opportunity to teach your child something about life. If he or she doesn't do homework earlier, your child will go to school without it the next day and suffer the resulting bad grade. It's natural for you to want to rescue your child from any mistakes, but in the long run you'll be doing your child more of a favor if you let him or her fail sometimes. Your child will see what behaving improperly can mean, and will probably not make those mistakes again. However, if your child does not seem to be learning from natural consequences, you should set up your own consequences to help him modify his behavior more effectively. By now you've laid the groundwork. Your child knows what's expected of him or her and knows that you mean what you say about the consequences of bad behavior. Don't let down your guard now - discipline is just as important for teens as it is for younger children. Just like the 4-year-old who needs you to set a bedtime and stick to it, no matter how much he or she whines, your teen needs to know boundaries, too. Make sure to set up rules regarding homework, visits by friends, curfews, and dating and discuss them beforehand with your teenager so there will be no misunderstandings. Your teen, although he or she will probably complain from time to time, will realize that you are in control. Believe it or not, teens still want and need you to set limits and enforce order in their lives, even as you grant them greater freedom and responsibility. When your teen does break a rule, taking away privileges may seem to be the best plan of action. While it's fine to take away the car for a week, for example, be sure to discuss with your child why coming home an hour past curfew is unacceptable and worrisome. It's also important to give a teenager some control over life. Not only will this limit the number of power struggles you may have, it will help your teen to respect the decisions you must make for him or her. With a younger teen, you could allow him or her to make his or her own decisions concerning school clothes, hair styles, or even the condition of his or her room. As your teen gets older, that realm of control might be extended to include an occasional relaxed curfew. It's also important to focus on the positives. For example, have your child earn a later curfew by demonstrating positive behavior, rather than giving your teen an earlier curfew as punishment for There is perhaps no more controversial form of discipline than spanking. Here are some reasons why the American Academy of Pediatrics encourages parents to avoid spanking: - Spanking teaches children that it's OK to hit when they're angry. - Spanking can physically harm children. - Rather than teaching children how to change their behavior, spanking makes them fearful of their parents and teaches them merely to avoid getting caught. - In the case of children who are looking for attention by acting out, spanking may inadvertently "reward" children by giving them attention - negative attention is better than no attention at all. The tantrums and outbursts of a child who has no self-control can rile even the most patient of parents. Whether you're in the middle of a crowded grocery store, at a holiday dinner with extended family, or even at home, these fits can be extremely frustrating. But they may be a little easier to handle if your child learns a sense of self-control, how to make choices about how to respond to a situation, instead of just relying on impulses. By exercising self-control, your child can learn to make appropriate decisions and respond to stressful situations in ways that will be more likely to have positive outcomes. For example, if you tell your child that you are not going to serve ice cream until after dinner, your child may cry, plead, or even scream in the hopes that you will give in. If your child has a sense of self-control, he or she might understand that a temper tantrum may cause you to take away the ice cream for good. And your child may be more willing to wait patiently for ice cream after dinner. How Can You Help Your Child Learn Self-Control? Here are a few suggestions on how you can help your child learn to control his or her behavior: - birth to age 2: Infants and toddlers frequently get frustrated because there's a large gap between the things they want to do and what they are actually able to do. They often respond to those frustrations with temper tantrums. You may be able to prevent your child from having an outburst by distracting him or her with toys or other activities. By the time your child is 2 years old, you may want to use a brief time-out (when your child is taken to a designated timeout area - a kitchen chair or bottom stair - for a minute or 2 to calm down) to show that there are consequences for outbursts. Time-outs can also teach your child that it's best to take some time alone in the face of frustration, instead of throwing a temper tantrum. - ages 3 to 5: At this stage, you may want to continue to use time-outs. But rather than sticking to a specific time limit, it's a good idea to end time-outs as soon as your child has calmed down. This can be an effective way to encourage your child to improve his or her sense of selfcontrol. It's also a good idea to praise your child for not losing control in situations that are frustrating or difficult. - ages 6 to 9: As your child enters school, he or she will likely be able to understand the idea of consequences and that he or she can choose good or bad behavior. It may help your child to imagine a stop sign that he or she needs to obey and think about a situation before responding. You may want to encourage your child to walk away from a frustrating situation for a few minutes to cool off instead of having an outburst. - ages 10 to 12: Older children are typically able to better understand their feelings. Encourage your child to think about the situation that is causing him or her to lose control and then analyze it. You may want to explain to your child that sometimes the situations that are upsetting at first don't end up being as awful as they first seem. You may want to urge your child to take some time to think before responding to a situation. - ages 13 to 17: At this point, your child should be able to control most of his or her actions. But you may need to remind your teen to think about long-term consequences of his or her actions. Continue to urge your teen to take time to evaluate upsetting situations before responding to them. Also encourage your child to talk through troubling situations rather than losing control, slamming doors, or yelling. At this point you may need to discipline your child by taking away certain privileges, for example, to reinforce the message that self-control is an important skill. It's important to set a good example for your child by demonstrating healthy ways to react to stressful situations. As difficult as it may be, it's a good idea to resist the urge to yell when you are disciplining your child. Instead, try to be firm and matter of fact. If your child is losing his or her temper, instead of losing yours, too, calmly let your child know that yelling, throwing a tantrum, and slamming doors is unacceptable behavior, and it has consequences. Calmly explain what those consequences are. If your child has an occasional temper tantrum or outburst, in many cases, it's a good idea to show your child that a tantrum is not an effective method to get what he or she wants. For example, if your child gets upset at the grocery store after you've explained why you are not buying any candy, if you don't give in to it, you have demonstrated that a tantrum is unacceptable behavior, and it doesn't work. If your child frequently loses control and is continually argumentative, antisocial, or impulsive or if tantrums last for more than 10 minutes on a regular basis, you may want to talk to your child's doctor. For school-age children, you may want to also talk to the doctor if the tantrums are accompanied by the following behaviors: - difficulty in concentrating - low self-esteem - declining performance in school You might also consider talking to your child's teachers about classroom settings and appropriate behavioral expectations for your child. Also, look at your own actions to see if you are managing stressful situations as well as you can. If not, you might want to ask your family doctor about whether family counseling sessions may help.

HOW TO DISCIPLINE YOUR CHILD How do you keep a 1-year-old from heading toward the VCR? What should you do when your preschooler throws a fit? How can you get your adolescent to respect your authority? Find out here how to vary your approach to discipline to best fit your family. Whatever the age of your child, it's important to be consistent in disciplining your child. If you don't stick to the ru