Calling all cookie lovers and tractor fans! That's right–we're bringing the farm to you this holiday season with this delightful storybook for children ages 4-8. CASEY'S BRIGHT RED CHRISTMAS.
In a fabulous new series, we spend the holidays on Happy Skies Farm with Casey, Tillus and friends and their beloved farm. But there's so much to do with regular farm chores, plus decorating, cocoa and carols, that the task seems almost impossible…and where's Casey?
Readers will delight in the bright, colorful illustrations, as well as the classic message of slowing down to enjoy the festivities. Oh, and that cookie? Well, there's a lovely frosted sugar cookie recipe at the back of the book…cause ya know, all of those farm chores sure works up an appetite!
Got a farm guru on your hands? How about a little person who loves tractors, combines, and cultivators? Maybe you live on a farm?! Check out the rest of the fabulous titles from Octane Press.
Holly Dufek has spent nearly 15 years writing and working with educational curriculum for publishers such as Holt McDougal, National Geographic Education and Riverside Publishing. Holly has worked to develop content to enrich the National Common Core Standards for elementary through high school classrooms. She holds a master's degree in Education and lives in Kenosha, WI, with her husband,Matt, and their three children.
Today, I am honored to have bestselling author-illustrator duo Deborah Diesen and Dan Hanna with us to have a merry little chat.
Deborah Diesen: The story grew out of an actual pout! One day many, many years ago, when my elder son was a preschooler, he was having a very grouchy afternoon. Hoping to amuse him, I made an exaggerated pouty face at him. He smiled and then pouted right back, which got us both laughing. "We look like fish," I said. "Like pout-pout fish!" As soon as I said that out loud, it became a story idea. I jotted the idea down and I started writing The Pout-Pout Fish that same day. Years later, I started sending the story to publishers, and in 2005 it was accepted at Farrar, Straus & Giroux Books for Young Readers. The book was published in 2008 and began a series of stories, all featuring Mr. Fish, his friends, and their adventures.
L.L>: What is Mr. Fish up to now? Does he have a case of the "dreary wearies" in the latest book, too?
L.L: What do you hope young readers (ages 3-6) will learn from The Not Very Merry Pout-Pout Fish? Is there a message here for grown-ups as well?
be expensive or complicated or splashy. Simple, heartfelt presents that connect us to one another are the best gifts of all. A drawing; a craft project; time spent together; even just a smile! These sorts of gifts are the most cherished and the most enduring. It's a lesson we grown-ups have to re-learn periodically as well.
L.L.:Do you have any tips for parents of toddlers about the joy of giving presents, rather than just receiving them, this holiday season?
Growing up, I think Dr. Jessica and I could have been fast friends…if we pulled ourselves out of our shells long enough to actually talk. As a self-proclaimed shy nerdy girl, Jessica Vogelsang loved books and dogs and had very little interest in what was fashionable: Velcro tennis shoes and denim jean jackets bedazzled with puffy paint.
ALL DOGS GO TO KEVIN is a beautiful legacy to her gifts: storytelling, caring demeanor toward animals, and her practical approach to veterinary science. I laughed, I cried, I nodded my head knowingly as I read through each story, from Dr. V's early "nerd days" to vet school, first clients, early motherhood, and beyond.
Yes, there are sad parts of the story, and that's simply because dogs don't have life spans near as long as humans, but there's always, always something they can teach about our lives. In the end, it's the dogs that make us better humans.
Dr. Vogelsang is the founder of the website Pawcurious.com, and her writing has been featured on Yahoo! and CNN, as in Ladies Home Journal, People, Outside magazine, and USA Today.
Today I am thrilled to have Dr. V. on the blog couch. Along with her golden retriever, of course.
Leslie Lindsay: Thanks so much for being with us today, Jessica! I finished the book last night with a basset puppy on my chest. I'm working now so she can sleep (ha!), so we're a bit on borrowed time. Tell me how you came to the idea of writing ALL DOGS GO TO KEVIN, was it dogs and your experience as a vet, or was it Kevin who inspired you? A little of both?
Dr. Jessica Vogelsang: I grew up on James Herriot, so writing a book was always something I had wanted to do. But in a circuitous way Kevin also played a role in it. He pushed me to start a blog in 2009, and although I wasn't into that idea I did think writing a blog would be ok. He's also the one who came up with the name pawcurious, which I thought was a terrible name. Glad I trusted him!
L.L.: I love at the end of ALL DOGS GO TO KEVIN you talk about how Kevin was very much "like a dog in human's clothing—full of love, brimming with life, and gone all too soon." What words might you share with someone who is grieving the loss of a pet?
Dr. Jessica Vogelsang: I think it's important for them to know it's ok. It's so normal, and we are so abnormal as a society in the way we expect people to be ashamed of their grief. I would encourage them to talk about their pet and their grief, and if they aren't surrounded by supportive people, to find some online.
L.L.: And now you are providing in-home hospice care for dog and cats. What a smart, touching way to use your gifts Can you tell me more about that, please?
Dr. Jessica Vogelsang: I sort of fell into hospice when I was writing the book. When Kekoa needed to be euthanized, I called on a friend to come to the house. She asked me a little while later if I might be interested in working with her practice, and I thought I might be willing to give it a try although the idea weirded me out a little. Now that I've been doing it for several years I can't imagine doing any other kind of work in the field!
L.L.: My 8-year old has wanted to be a vet since she could say, "doggy doctor." I know getting into vet school is not exactly easy. What advice might you give to those who want to pursue a career in veterinary medicine?
Dr. Jessica Vogelsang: Go into it with a full understanding of the emotional toll it may take on you. Students these days are graduating with an unprecedented amount of debt and an insecure job market. I don't say that to discourage people from the field, but I would make sure they understand the financial implications. There are so many ways to work with animals- you don't have to limit yourself to a DVM!
L.L.: Can you talk a little about your journey to becoming a published author? How might it compare to vet school?
They are very different and yet very much the same for me, in terms of me doing it the wrong way. When you write a book, the traditional path is write the book, find an agent, find a publisher. I did it in the exact reverse order.
I was very fortunate to have an extremely hands on agent in Steve Troha, who helped me formulate my idea for the book. My editor Emily Griffin at Grand Central was such a supportive champion for the book. I have no idea how I would have gotten it done without them! It truly was a team effort. Sort of like vet school in that regard too- you are responsible for your own outcome, but the support of your colleagues is what keeps you afloat.
L.L.: I've been enamored with the low-slung, comically defined basset hound for years. Can you tell us any funny basset hound stories?
Dr. Jessica Vogelsang: You know, I really didn't see too many of them where I lived and worked! They are not a hugely popular dog in San Diego. On the rare occasion we did get one in we would take bets on what it was in for: ears or skin issues. Usually it was both.
Dr. Jessica Vogelsang: Catching up on my reading! I took such a long break while I was writing the book. I am reacquainting myself with the works of Stephen King and having a grand time doing so. I really feel like reading a ton is the best way to get better at writing so I can excuse this effort as work-related.
L.L.: What might I have forgotten to ask about that I should have?
Dr. Jessica Vogelsang: What's the next book! And the answer is I don't know. I have two ideas in mind I need to mull on. Stay tuned.
L.L.: Thanks so much for such a fabulously fun and touching read. I'm recommending all vets-to-be, vets, and dog lovers read ALL DOGS GO TO KEVIN!
Dr. Jessica Vogelsang: Thank you so much!
Dr. Jessica Vogelsang is a veterinarian, mother, and big-time dog person. She worked in emergency and small animal medicine before settling into her current practice in San Diego providing in-home hospice care for dogs and cats. She is the founder of the website www.pawcurious.com. Visit Jessica at www.drjessicavogelsang.com. Her writing has been featured in or on Yahoo!, CNN,Ladies' Home Journal, People Pets, Outside magazine, and USA Today.
Run, don't walk to your nearest bookstore and GET THIS BOOK! It's Malcolm Gladwell meets Paul Tough meets Madeline Levine in a fresh, timely take on raising excellent adults from former Stanford freshmen admissions dean and parent Julie Lythcott-Haims.
Never preachy, and oh-so-relatable Lythcott-Haims is spot-on with her approach to parenting, over-parenting, and preparing your children for the adult world. Julie gets it–she's a mom raising her two (now) teenaged children in Silicon Valley where it's customary for kids to have most of what they want, thanks to high-powered and successful parents with seemingly endless resources. With compassion and empathy, Lythcott-Haims takes parents through the minefield of raising kids to be independent, and how that is, in fact, the best way to honor and support your children's individuality.
Brimming with research and laid out in a manner all parents can appreciate, HOW TO RAISE AND ADULT is a deeply informed narrative, which reads as if you're chatting with a good friend over coffee. You'll come across cringe-worthy anecdotes of parental over-involvement gathered from the author's observation and interviews with parents, teens, educators, coaches, and more.
HOW TO RAISE AN ADULT is about letting your children fly while offering them stepping stones to critical thinking, problem-solving, and resilience.
1. For better or worse, eighteen is not the magical age at which a child becomes an adult; ADULTHOOD is more than just a number. So what does it mean to be an adult? On page 145, Lythcott-Haims offers a response to this question with the help of Professor William Damon, who states that "an adult social role is one that is intrinsically not about you." Do you agree or disagree with this definition? How would you define adulthood?
2. As Lythcott-Haims discusses in her introduction, parenting styles, values, and methodologies in the United States have changed through the years and between generations. Does (or will) your parenting style differ from that of your own parents? In your lifetime, have you noticed a broader shift in the ways we, as a culture, think about and practice parenting?
3. In the twenty-first century, TECHNOLOGY influences nearly every facet of our lives, including the ways in which we parent. On page 14, Lythcott-Haims presents the following examples of how technology has affected parent-child relationships: "Take, for example, the mother of a Beverly Hills high schooler who insisted her son text her hourly on his way to and from a beach outing with friends. . . Or the Stanford parent who contacted the university to say he thought his daughter was missing because he hadn't heard from her in over a day." How does technology play a role in the way you parent (or plan to parent)? Is the ability to be in constant contact a blessing or a curse?
4. As parents, it pains us to see our kids get hurt, or fail, or face ANY VARIETY OF DISAPPOINTMENT But Lythcott-Haims argues that the experience of failure is key to building resilience in children and young adults. To what extent, and in what ways, is failure a necessary crucible for growth? At what point, if any, should parents intervene to prevent struggle?
5. Developmental psychologists generally agree that there are FOUR TYPES OF PARENTING: authoritative, permissive/indulgent, neglectful, and authoritarian. These types are diagrammed on a Cartesian chart on page 146. If your parenting style were a plot point on this chart, where do you think it would fall? Has its position changed over time?
6. There are numerous examples throughout How to Raise an Adult of parents who become exceedingly INVOLVED in their children's schoolwork and responsibilities—sometimes through college and even beyond, into their children's professional career. Is it ever appropriate or acceptable for parents to assist their children with schoolwork? College applications? The job search?
7. On pages 81 to 83, Lythcott-Haims proposes a CHECK-LIST OF LIFE SKILLS that any self-sufficient eighteen-year old should be able to exhibit. Do you agree with the contents of this list? Are there skills or behaviors that you think should be added to or removed from the list?
8. On pages 166 to 174, Lythcott-Haims describes a 4-STEP STRATEGY FOR TEACHING LIFE-SKILLS: 1) first we do it for you, 2) then we do it with you, 3) then we watch you do it, and 4) then you do it completely independently. She acknowledges that the third and fourth steps are often the most difficult for parents to carry out, and require an enormous leap of faith. In your experience, why is it hard for parents to stand back? What are the fears and hopes involved, and how can a parent mitigate them?
9. One of the book's major concerns is the PRESSURE that young people feel—to get straight As and perform well in extracurricular activities, and ultimately to gain admission to top-ranked universities and to obtain job offers from well-known companies—and the harms to mental health that result from this pressure. To what extent is it possible for individual parents to encourage effort and striving, and to reward achievement, without risking their children's mental health and without fueling the "brand name brouhaha," as Lythcott-Haims calls it on page 248? In what ways does our current collective value system resist individual efforts to turn the tide?
10. As discussed in Part 4 of the book, over-parenting not only negatively affects our children, but often places undue STRAIN ON PARENTS themselves. How does your parenting style affect your stress levels and your sense of self?
So…have you made it to the bookstore yet? Let me know your thoughts!
Bio: I am deeply interested in humans – all of us – living lives of meaning and purpose, which requires figuring out what we're good at and what we love, and being the best version of that self we can be. So I'm interested in what gets in the way of that. I wrote this book because too many adolescents and young adults seem to be on a path of someone else's making, while being subjected to a lot of hovering and lot of help to ensure that particular path is walked, all in furtherance of a very limited and narrow definition of "success." I come at this issue from the dual vantage points of former university dean and parent of two teenagers, and with great empathy for humans.
I majored in American Studies at Stanford University (1989) and studied law at Harvard (1994). I practiced law in the Bay Area in the 1990s before returning to Stanford to serve in various roles including Dean of Freshmen, a position I created and held for a decade. In my final three years at Stanford I was Associate Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education and Dean of Freshmen and Undergraduate Advising, and in 2010 I received the university's Lloyd W. Dinkelspiel Award for "creating the atmosphere that defines the undergraduate experience." Since leaving Stanford in 2012 I've been pursuing an MFA at California College of the Arts in San Francisco.
In addition to non-fiction I write creative non-fiction, poetry, short stories, and plays. My work has appeared on TEDx talks and in the Chicago Tribune, Forbes, The New York Times, Slate.com, Time.com, and Huffington Post. I live in the San Francisco Bay Area with my husband, our teenagers, and my mother.
[Special thanks to Leslie Brandon at Henry Holt & Co. for this review copy. Discussion questions retrieved from Ms. Lythcott-Haims website].
BooKs on MondaY: Drs. Anne Cunningham and Jamie Zubilsky on their new book BOOK SMART!
I am in absolute awe of this amazing book on reading with your children, aptly titled, BOOK SMART: How to Develop and Support Successful, Motivated Readers.
Think back to your own childhood: do you have a special memory with a caregiver and a book? Perhaps you curled up into a grandparent's lap with a dog-eared copy of nursery rhymes. Maybe you escaped into a popular series as a grade-schooler. Do you recall *your* favorite childhood book?
BOOK SMART will touch on nostalgia while presenting a fabulous array of research in parent-friendly terms, while offering ideas for increasing the love of literature at home, being tech-savvy, and so much more. I am honored to have Drs. Anne Cunningham and Jamie Zibulsky with us to tell us more.
Leslie Lindsay: Welcome and thank you for being with us today, Anne and Jamie! I understand you two are passionate readers, have been for most of your lives. I really resonated with Jamie's story earlier about how she and her father would cozy up with a book—and Anne's family thrived on a print-rich environment with a bevy of magazines, books, and newspapers at her disposal. What is it about reading as a child that develops passionate, life-long readers?
Dr. Jamie Zibulsky: That's a great question, and one that I can't help but answer in multiple ways. From a research perspective, there are studies that have shown that factors like a caregiver's motivation to read or their knowledge of children's books is a good predictor of a child's future reading success. It makes sense that this is the case because we know that children imitate behaviors they see important people in their lives engaging in, and then eventually internalize the values associated with those behaviors.
I think it's also important to answer this question from a more personal perspective too, to give an example of what these findings mean for any one child. When I was a kid, I remember how wonderful it felt to get time alone with one of my parents and how grown-up it felt to pick out a book to share with them. Getting a chance to bond with my parents, who both were readers themselves, was one of the initial reasons that I became an enthusiastic reader. However, even though being able to spend time with adults I loved and getting attention for liking books helped me get started on the path to becoming a lifelong reader, these extrinsic rewards eventually became less important than reading for its own sake. I remember how much I loved hearing about the life of Laura Ingalls Wilder and trying to picture what I would have done if I lived during that time period – her books gave me a chance to learn about a time and place that was new to me, but also normalized some of the feelings and experiences I had growing up (by sharing stories about sibling rivalry, for example).
To recap, what we know is that having good reading experiences with a caregiver early on in life makes it more likely that a child will both develop strong skills and also develop enthusiasm for reading. This sets up a feedback loop where kids with better reading skills, more motivation to read, or who spend more time reading end up likely to have all three of these attributes as they get older.
L.L.: I love how BOOK SMART has so many wonderful graphics—charts, especially—busy caregivers can quickly glance, find a literacy activity, and implement it. Can you expand on this feature of the book?
Dr. Jamie Zibulsky: We're so glad that the graphics seemed helpful to you! We added this feature for just the reason you mention – we know thatcaregivers of young children are busy and wanted to craft a book that could be useful to a mom who was trying to strengthen shared reading time at home while also working, planning meals for a family of five, or juggling any of the other challenges that come along with parenting. We wanted to make sure that the strategies we talk about in Book Smart were easy to use and that someone could read a chapter and immediately have an idea of how to put the ideas they read about into practice. So, each chapter ends with a list of activities appropriate for kids of a variety of ages that are described briefly. Our hope is that it is the kind of list that motivates caregivers to try a new literacy activity out in the car or during a meal the day after they read about it, because one of the key ideas that we are trying to convey throughout the book is that very simple activities can lead to powerful changes for kids.
L.L.: Let's talk about technology a bit. There's plenty of opportunity to *not* read books, sadly. How can caregivers and children still work in the iPad/tablet, Kindle, and other electronic devices, but gain valuable book skills?
Dr. Jamie Zibulsky: You're right; there are so many other activities that compete with reading time these days. And it becomes harder and harder to limit young children's exposure to technology as families begin to own multiple smart phones and tablets. The rule of thumb we suggest that hopefully makes sense to most families, regardless of what their philosophy is on technology, is that tech tools should *supplement* rather than *replace* reading time. What that means to me is that technology can't substitute for a caregiver – kids need that time sitting with someone, getting cuddles and talking about the pictures in a book together, in order to become a successful, motivated reader. But if there is a time of day when it would be difficult for a caregiver to read with a child or a time when a child already protests about reading independently, that might be a time of day when it's appropriate for that child to play a rhyming game online or read a magazine on the Kindle. Many kids do find reading online or downloading a new app exciting, so harnessing that enthusiasm is a way that we can help encourage reading during times when a child might have previously been using technology for a different purpose.
L.L.: One thing I really liked in the book is the idea of specific praise versus this idea of 'blanketed praise.' That is, not telling your child she is smart (even if she is), but instead offering specific phrase, "Great job thinking of another word for cold." Why is this so important?
Dr. Anne Cunningham: When global praise is used, and children are told in general terms that they are wonderful, or smart, or a good reader it sets them up for disappointment because no one is always smart in every situation or a good reader for all kinds of text. That means at some point, even very skilled children will think something like, "Hey, Mom said I was a great reader, but I had so much trouble understanding the story today. I guess I'm not a good reader anymore now that I'm in fourth grade." However, when a parent or caretaker uses specific praise such as ''Even though that story was difficult to understand, you kept at it and asked questions about the plot," to praise the persistence and specific problem solving skills that their child displayed, their child is better prepared to tackle difficult or novel problems or issues in the future. We want to give kids praise that they can apply to future situations, which generally means focusing on their effort rather than their ability.
L.L.: We often find books that touch on a problem or a worry we're experiencing at home. Can you give us some examples of how books help act out social situations and challenges, and what caregivers might do to enhance this aspect of shared literacy?
Dr. Anne Cunningham: As we describe in the book, there are many benefits of reading, most importantly perhaps, is that reading helps a child relate to their surrounding world and encourages empathy and interpersonal skills.So often we tend to think of reading as primarily an activity meant to enhance children's academic skills. And we tend to forget that reading is built on a shared understanding of the world and can help our children build background knowledge and discuss their own life experiences with their caretakers. Shared reading can provide models for coping with difficult situations, opportunities for understanding the lives of people who are very different from us, and serve as a source of comfort. For example, when my son was young, we often read stories about adventure and fantasy. But we also read stories about children who experienced teasing or bullying in school. These stories demonstrated to him that other children have similar feelings when confronted with comparable circumstances and gave me a way to introduce this topic to him without having to directly bring up his own experiences first. My son also learned that he was not the only one who experienced such trying dilemmas, but other children encountered them as well. Through stories, caregivers can help their children identify and validate their feelings, stimulate discussion and foster thought and self-awareness about challenging social situations and help them discover possible coping skills and solutions.
L.L.: Can you offer some suggestions on how parents and caregivers may help increase print awareness at home?
Dr. Anne Cunningham: Parents and caregivers can help increase print awareness at home by creating an environment, both physical and verbal, that emphasizes words and language. At a physical level, having books and other print material around the house facilitates access to print. Additionally, by labeling common objects (for example, door, table, etc.) children begin to see words all around them and to make the association implicitly that print carries meaning. At a verbal level, parents and caregivers can "flood" their children with language, for example by describing situations in detail such as how they are going to make a sandwich and all the steps and ingredients involved. These verbal labels and steps can then be paired with their physical representation such as the "Smucker's raspberry jam" label. Parents and caregivers can help increase print awareness by building upon their child's interests in a topic. Stocking books that match their child's own interests will spark their enthusiasm for reading and increase print awareness.
Dr. Jamie Zibulsky: It's so funny that you asked this question now, because I have been thinking about this topic a lot in the past few weeks. My son, who is fourteen months old, just recognized – for the first time – that his name is written out both on a step-stool in our house and in letter magnets on the refrigerator. When he ran back and forth between the two versions of his name and pointed at the letters, I basically jumped up and down with joy, because it demonstrated how powerful it can be to do just what Anne is describing above. I'll be giving some more specific strategies for increasing print awareness in very young children in a blog post at PsychologyToday this week.
L.L.: Finally, what might be your ultimate wish for children and their success with literacy?
Dr. Anne Cunningham: I can imagine no better wish for children than for them to experience and know the joy of the nighttime ritual my mother taught me many years ago and I have passed down to my son—to tuck myself into bed with a book and, from the comfort of my own home, explore new worlds with new friends who nurture and expand my mind and spirit.
Dr. Jamie Zibulsky: I agree with Anne wholeheartedly, and wish for all children to have this opportunity and experience. We know that there are so many aspects of reading success that require caregivers and teachers to provide support to young children and that environment matters so much. I hope that we continue to invest in ways to make reading possible for all families and communities.
L.L.: Thank you so much for spreading the word with us, Jamie and Anne! It was a pleasure.
Dr. Anne Cunningham: Thank YOU!
Dr. Jamie Zibulsky: Thanks for having us.
Check out the BOOK SMART website here.
Parents these days are inundated with a host of "Brainy Baby" products from DVDs to flashcards, educational toys, and so much more. Do they really work? Dr. Stephen Camarata debunks many of the myths of these so-called brainy products, and shares that what these babies really need above and all is their parents. Engaged, supportive, and tuned-in parents.
THE INTUITIVE PARENT (Penguin/Current, 2015) is a must-read for any new parent just starting out who desires to raise life-long learners. Dr. Camarata, a Vanderbilt University Professor and "veteran" parent himself, (having raised seven children; now grandfather to three), he holds an advanced degree in developmental psychology and has done much of his clinical work in late-talking children.
I'm honored to welcome Dr. Camarata to the blog.
Leslie Lindsay: You take on the marketing frenzy of "Brainy Baby" type products in THE INTUITIVE PARENT, suggesting that all of these DVDs, products, and flashcards don't really work—how can they, they're just 2-dimensional products after all—instead, you recommend getting back to basics: smiling, talking, and playing with your child(ren). Can you expand on that, please?
L.L.: Life is busy. Many households have two working parents, a whole host of other commitments, and outside pressures. How might we 'slow down and smell the flowers' when it comes to raising kids? Will popping in a DVD or allowing our 2-year old play with the tablet/iPad really be detrimental?
Dr. Camarata: Life is indeed quite busy and a baby makes it even more wonderfully full for families! The point of "The intuitive parent" is to empower parents to make positive choices—in tune with their inner parenting voice—to nurture their children. Sadly, there is an ongoing myth in today's society that computer apps, DVDs and flashcards are better than human parents for "wiring a child's brain." In truth, parents are far better than any screen activity for activating neural plasticity and raising a confident, smart, well-adjusted child. When given a choice between talking to and playing with a child, pounding flashcards or plugging in an "educational DVD," playing and talking win hands down in terms of what is best for your child—and their developing brain. Even if you only have a few precious moments while trying to juggle the demands of a busy schedule, play and talk with your baby whenever you can.
Although it is clear that screen time is in no way superior to mommy time or daddy time for a baby's developing brain, including a screen as one would a book or letting a child enjoy a favorite show on DVD while parent's are otherwise busy is not harmful. It is normal and natural for children to spend some time on their own and parents should make an active choice regarding what their child watches. This should be a limited amount of time and NOT the primary source of knowledge for a child.
L.L.: I still prefer paper books and email to texting. But this is a technology-driven society we live in. Where does technology and your model of intuitive parenting meld?
Dr. Camarata: Technology is indeed an integral part of our society and can readily incorporated into intuitive parenting activities. As you mention, one can read a physical book or an ebook: Parents can cuddle with their child and read an ebook exactly in the same way they would a regular "old school" book. The key is to integrate the technology, ebooks, DVDs and computers into INTERACTIVE episodes. Rather than turning a child's brain over to technology, parents should be playing and talking while using the technology. Watch a DVD together, pause the video from time to time and ask questions. What do you think will happen next? What did they find? How do they feel? And so on. No one expects a book, by itself, to teach a child how to read, it is a learning tool. Technology should be treated the same way.
L.L.: I have to say, I really do love the suggestions in THE INTUITIVE PARENT, which I think we can boil down to this: be present, let the child(ren) take the lead when it comes to her play and interests, and be playful yourself. How is this different than free-range parenting?
Dr. Camarata: Free range parenting is a laissez faire style that essentially leaves the fate of your child in the hands of a cold hearted Darwinian "survival of the fittest" outside world. Parents are encouraged to disengage from their child, give them space and let them learn on their own. To be sure, I am exhorting parents to let their child lead in terms of choosing activities, trying and failing and trying again rather than being led through development. But, rather than distancing themselves from their child, intuitive parenting actually means interacting more, responding more, and spending time with your child. A free range parent might turn their child loose on the New York subway system without supervision. An intuitive parent would go with their child, but allow her to buy the tokens, select the train and destination and so on. The intuitive parent would also let a child make mistakes (for example, get on the wrong train) without scolding or being judgmental while allowing her to learn form her mistakes. An intuitive parent is also in a position to debrief their child after the trip and also ask questions about how their child arrived at the decisions (right or wrong) they made during the trip. Perhaps more importantly, intuitive parenting conveys the benefits of free range parenting without the risk.
L.L.: I have to ask about late-talking kids. Being a mother of an older daughter with childhood apraxia of speech (CAS), this is something I struggle with even now that she's 10 years old and considered "resolved." I think it's the guilt that seeps in—"I caused it, I didn't talk to her enough as a baby, didn't get the help she needed," etc. Of course, now I know this is not the case, but when I was in the thick of it, I didn't know what else to believe. What advice might you give to parents who are struggling with speech and language concerns in their older infants/toddlers?
Dr. Camarata: First, let me say that I am delighted that things turned out well for your daughter! Parents often do have guilt about their late talking child and some professionals mistakenly add to this guilt. The truth is that parents do not cause late talking. Sadly, some well meaning—but misinformed—professionals, friends or even family members may say things like "you should have talked more to her when she was a baby!" or "you should have gotten help sooner!" These comments can be hurtful and actually are not accurate. Parents talk a lot to their babies and young children, some more than others, but always more than enough to help their child learn to talk. Lack of input is definitely not the cause of late talking! With regard to early intervention, it can certainly be beneficial. But the wrong kind of treatment may not be helpful and, in some cases, can be harmful. For example, treatment for autism may not be effective for other forms of late talking. Treatment for apraxia won't help autism or other language disorders and so on.
My advice to parents of late talking children is have a medical evaluation from the pediatrician or family physician and then to seek an accurate differential diagnosis to determine whether their child is likely to simply "grow out" of the late talking or whether it is a speech disorder such as apraxia, a language disorder, autism, intellectual disability or some other condition associated with late talking that requires treatment. Do not go to a clinic or a professional that applies a "one size fits all" label such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and then funnel their child to a one size fits all treatment. Be forewarned that there are many "snake oil" treatments out there that take advantage of parents' anxiety and guilt. Finally, no matter what, do not forget to play, interact and enjoy your late talking child. No matter what, do not let guilt and anxiety crowd out those precious parent-child moments.
L.L.: How can we learn from our kids?
Dr. Camarata: There is some much we can learn. I find it especially interesting to learn about what they are thinking and why. When my second daughter was four, she noticed that my hair was thinning. She asked me whether this was because I was thinking so much that the heat from my brain was causing the hair to die and fall out. What an intriguing idea! Intuitive parents tune in to their child, and learn about of their own unique personality. Are they easy going or more intense? Do they like puzzles and numbers or stories and imaginary friends and creatures? It is so much fun to discover your child's way of seeing the world.
But perhaps the most important lessons our children teach us is to enjoy the moment. Child are quite resilient and become deeply engaged in their play—and in their imagination. As a parent, being with my children—and now grandchildren—literally melts away the worries of the outside world as I leave them behind and join children in a world of wonder and delight.
L.L.: Thank so much for taking the time to chat with us, Dr. Camarata! It was a pleasure.
Dr. Camarata: Thanks so much for your thoughtful questions and your interest in the book!
Bio: Stephen Camarata, PhD, is a professor in the department of hearing and speech sciences and a professor of psychiatry at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine. He is a children's speech expert and the author of THE INTUITIVE PARENT: Why the Best Thing For Your Child Is You.
As a mother and someone who is very interested in childhood speech and language, Dr. Suskind's book THIRTY MILLION WORDS (Dutton, September 8) is right up my alley. Not to mention that I currently live in Chicagoland (where she practices/teaches at the University of Chicago) –and we both seem to have ties to St. Louis. I should be clear though: we do not know each other, professionally or personally; our connection is merely serendipitous.
Her initiative, THIRTY MILLION WORDS is important–yet astoundingly simple–talk with your child. Today, I am honored and humbled to have Dr. Suskind with us.
Leslie Lindsay: I'm always so interested in what sparks a writer to delve into her chosen topic. I understand you are a pediatric cochlear implant surgeon. What instigated your shift to the social and educational sciences?
As I mention in my book, taking the Hippocratic Oath meant that my obligation to my patients doesn't end when I finish operating; it ends when my patients are well. I knew that it was time for me to step out of the comfort of the operating room into the wider world of social science in order to truly affect a change for our nation's children. This book describes that transition and its result: the Thirty Million Words Initiative.
L.L.: What advice would you give to parents who are raising a child with hearing loss, whether it be mild, moderate, or severe?
Dr. Dana Suskind: It's important to know that the brain development of a child who has moderate to severe hearing loss is the same as that of typically developing children. A rich early language environment makes all the difference.
L.L.: Let's talk about the title of the book. Someone in a waiting room recently noticed the cover/title while I was reading, "So how long does it take to read thirty million words," he asked.
Of course, I had to describe what that term really meant: a University of Kansas study showed that by age 4, kids from wealthy families had heard 30 million more words than low-income families. That's HUGE! Can you talk about that, please? It's not 30 million different words, but something else?
Dr. Dana Suskind: 30 million words is a metaphor for differences in early language environments. Parent responsiveness and the quantity and quality of parent-child interactions are what really matter – greater variation in vocabulary, more syntactic complexity, asking open-ended questions, eliciting a child's response.
L.L.: I love your stance on television, by the way. So many kids (and parents!) feel as if TV actually teaches, when in fact, it does not. A television does not tune in (views tend to "zone out,"), it does not talk more, and it does not take turns. These are your 3T's. Can you tell us more about what the 3T's really mean?
Dr. Dana Suskind: Sure. The first 3T, Tune In, is about making a conscious effort to notice, focus, and respond to what your child is communicating. A child who receives constant Tuning In is likely to stay engaged longer, initiate communication, and ultimately, learn more easily. Talk More is focused on building your child's vocabulary with descriptive words. Take Turns is the most valuable for a child's developing brain. You want to engage your child in a conversational exchange. Using open-ended questions or asking a simple 'how' or 'why' allows your child to respond with a wide range of words, thoughts, and ideas.
L.L.: If you had one wish for parents and children regarding academic and social success, what would it be?
Dr. Dana Suskind: Educational equity. And, that all parents truly understand how powerful they are in building a child's brain. We believe all families and communities deserve access to this life-changing information. That is the overarching goal of TMW and the purpose of this book.
L.L.: What more can parents (and educators) do?
Dr. Dana Suskind: They can understand that learning begins on the first day of life and not the first day of school. And everyone can help spread this important message to more parents, educators, and policy makers.
L.L.: Thank you so very much for taking the time to be with us today, Dr. Suskind…it was much enlightening.
Dr. Dana Suskind: Thank you so much for this opportunity to spread the words!
Dana Suskind, author of the book, Thirty Million Words: Building A Child's Brain, (Dutton, September 2015), is Professor of Surgery and Pediatrics at the University of Chicago, Director of the Pediatric Cochlear Implant Program, and Founder and Director of the Thirty Million Words Initiative. Based on scientific research that shows the critical importance of early language exposure on the developing child, Thirty Million Words helps parents enhance their home language environment in order to optimize their child's brain development and, therefore, his or her ability to learn. An evidence-based intervention, Thirty Million Words is supported by a broad coalition of public and private partnerships and is an extension of Dr. Suskind's Project ASPIRE, which she created to assure that her patients from disadvantaged backgrounds reached their full listening and spoken language potentials. Dr. Suskind's ultimate goal, and that of her dedicated team, is to help all children reach their full potentials and to close the ever-widening achievement gap.
[All images retrieved from the TMW website on 9.11.15. Special thanks to the author and publicists for the review copy and coordinating efforts].


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by Joan Tupponce
Estate, garden and yacht furniture handcrafted by Richmond-based McKinnon & Harris is designed to go the distance.
Anne Harris Massie and William McKinnon Massie Jr.
Photos courtesy of McKinnon & Harris
Each piece of the outdoor furniture designed by Richmond-based McKinnon & Harris has a story. Most pieces are named for family members or close friends of siblings Anne Harris Massie and William McKinnon Massie Jr., who founded the high-end estate, garden and yacht furniture manufacturing company in 1991.
The stories stem from the antiques passed down from generation to generation that filled their childhood home in Lynchburg. "Each piece had a story and a name," says Anne. "Our mother carried everyone's genealogy in her head. There were so many stories about all of this furniture that it sometimes seemed almost to us, especially as children, as if it could come alive being so attached to all of these ancestors."
Their parents—passionate gardeners—served as inspiration to start the company. "I'm sure their love for a garden that will outlive you influenced us in creating our enduring furniture," explains Anne. "They were also ardent collectors of antique furniture, so Will and I put together those two great lovesto do something we totally believed in."
"When McKinnon & Harris first began,Anne and I were driven by our vision of making pieces we wanted to have ourselves, and thatis what we're still doing," says Will. "Every single piece in the collection is something we would like in our own gardens, so I think we may be the ultimate audience. Lucky for us,our clients want the same things we want."
Today a garden is regarded as an extension of the house, and that often blurs the lines between interior and exterior furniture.
"There is the expectation, a reasonable one, that you should be as comfortable outdoors as you are inside," says Will.
The company crafts a variety of furniture that includes dining chairs, club chairs, sofas, sectionals, lounge chairs, ottomans, rocking chairs, benches and chaise lounges as well as palm boxes (planters). All of McKinnon & Harris' furniture is made from high-performance aluminum, with prices ranging from $3,000 to $25,000 (available to the trade). The company's international client base is composed of some of the top architects, interior designers, landscape architects and designers in the world. High profile clients include entertainers, politicians and even royalty. (But they're not telling who.)
The company's newest collection, Virginia Bench, has the duo returning to their roots. When they first started the business, they designed benches inspired by the Regency style, popular in England in the late 1700s and early 1800s. "We had fallen under the spell of English garden furniture," Anne explains. "The benches were just as much sculpture in the garden as they were a place to sit and enjoy the view."
The new line nods to this antique English garden furniture, but with more "sophisticated design elements like the complex curving crest rail and tapered front legs, things made possible by 21st century craftsmanship," Anne says.
The siblings are personally involved with every aspect of the furniture they craft, says Anne: "It sets us apart." Anne, 57, has a master's degree in art history and Will, 56, has a background in finance.
Company growth over the past 25 years has been measured and steady, but Anne and Will are determined to maintain that small company ambiance they value. "We don't place value on growth just for the sake of growing bigger, and we're definitely not focused on being the largest," Will explains.
"Our unofficial motto is, 'We don't want to be the biggest, we want to be the best.'"
In the past 10 years, the company has opened three showrooms—in New York, London and Los Angeles—in addition to its Richmond headquarters in Scott's Addition, and today employs 85 people.
"New York has been our biggest market from the beginning," says Will, adding that it was their first showroom.
The company's London showroom opened five years ago, after Anne and Will began working with English designers. "They wanted to see the furniture firsthand," Anne says of the designers. "It was important to have a place there."
Sun chaise with wheels in white from the Beaufort line.
Club chairs, armless club chair and ottoman from the deCamp line.
All of the furniture seen in the showrooms is made in Richmond to ensure it meets the siblings' expectations. "We control every part of the process," Will says.
Customers may be unaware of the complexity that goes into the construction of each piece of furniture thanks to hidden joints, sophisticated welding and intricate design elements: "We have a team of remarkably gifted craftspeople who are absolutely the best in the world at what they do," Anne says. "A piece of our furniture appears utterly simple, but so much has gone into it to make it that perfect." A larger piece of furniture, for instance, may take more than 100 hours to craft. Each piece is signed and dated by the craftsman that made it. "Often the best way is the hardest way; to make something superior you cannot take shortcuts," Anne notes.
Working in a family business can sometimes cause rifts, but not for Anne and Will. "It's not difficult to know what is the best for the company when it comes to important decisions, so we are always in agreement," Will explains.
The only con to working with your sibling is the amount of time you spend talking with each other about work, Anne adds. "My husband, Alex, and Will's wife, Alice, are very patient and completely understand that it is very much a true family business."
This article originally appeared in our June 2018 issue.
Design Home & Garden Furniture Home McKinnon & Harris June 2018 Issue Interiors Richmond
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CIBC Commercial Banking, partnering with CIBC Wealth Management, offers an integrated approach to your investments.
Through financial planning, disciplined investment management and sound stewardship, we meet all your financial needs—personal, family and business.
CIBC Commercial Banking, partnering with CIBC Wealth Management, offers an integrated approach. Through wealth strategies, disciplined investment management and sound stewardship, we meet all your financial needs—personal, family and business.


Love this one too. Are there more to come? I think I'm going to have to visit this place.
This is where my mother was raised. My uncle owns it now but it's going to be sold shortly. When we were children we were sent off for Christmas holidays with our grandparents. Even 45 years ago it seemed old but, for us it really was the best of times. I'm sure my cousins would tell a similar story.
Sadly, I don't ever remember visiting it.
I guess Jo I think of the farm and the house in Darraweit as being the same place and forget the farm was a no go zone by the time you were growing up. Now that I think of it Michael told me he had never been there and neither had Craig. Sometimes I imagine every one has had the same experiences as me but it turns out to be different for all of us.
Yeah, sad but true. I have fabulous memories of the house in town though.


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Phil Wickham's New Album 'Hymn Of Heaven' Out Now
Phil Wickham
Today, Phil Wickham releases his eighth album, Hymn Of Heaven (Fair Trade Services). Encompassing 13 songs, including his multiple-week No. 1 hit "Battle Belongs," the anticipated project is the follow-up to his 2018 release Living Hope, which features the RIAA Gold-certified single and GMA Dove Award for "Worship Recorded Song of the Year" of the same name. At press time, Hymn Of Heaven is topping the iTunes Christian Album Chart and No. 7 on the overall iTunes Album Chart.
To celebrate the album's release, Wickham is offering a free livestream concert tonight at 7pm PT/9pm CT, from Riverside, CA. Be sure to join the not-to-be-missed event at PhilWickham.com!
Also to celebrate release day, the music video for "Hymn Of Heaven" debuts today. Be sure to watch by clicking here and on the video below.
Throughout the process of crafting new music during a global pandemic that created unprecedented obstacles for the local church, Wickham saw an opportunity – the church wasn't relegated to a building. It was happening in our homes and in our hearts.
"Hymn of Heaven is full of praise and thankfulness, just lifting up the name of Jesus and speaking what we really know the reality is even though we don't see it," he says. "All I want to do is facilitate moments where people can encounter the presence of God."
Collaborators who joined Wickham to write for Hymn of Heaven include multi-GRAMMY winners Jonathan Smith (who also produced the album), Jason Ingram, Ethan Hulse, Brian Johnson, Ricky and Ran Jackson, as well as Passion City's Sean Curran, Hillsong's Chris Davenport, Bethel Music's Kalley Heiligenthal, and Brandon Lake, who is featured on the track "Where I'm Standing Now."
"I just want to write songs that I'd want to sing with my church in a way that musically lights my heart up, and I think I've done that better on this record than I ever have before," Wickham adds, fully comfortable in his artistic skin. "I cannot wait for people to hear this album. I can't wait for these songs to be a part of people's lives."
To promote the album, Wickham is touring this spring and summer on his Night Of Worship tour along with festival dates throughout the summer. It was also recently announced he will appear alongside Pat Barrett and Brandon Lake this fall on their Singalong Tour hitting various cities across the U.S. Be sure to visit his touring page to find out more.


text:
Q: unable to store multiple sed operations using pipe in a variable I am not able to execute a multiple sed statement using pipe filters in a variable.
i am trying to extract a path from a file and then working on that path to change a few letters within the path by going through another sed statement.
the code looks like this:
for i in 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
do
  for j in F E I D
  do
  cpath="`sed -n "11,11p" <path.cfg | sed -n 's/voicex/voice'$i'/g; s/voicecolx/voicecol'$i'/g; s/" F "/" '$j' "/g;P'`"
  echo $cpath
   more $cpath 2>error.log | grep " '&j' " | wc -l | echo "The count of '$j' in file is: " `wc -l` 1>countdir/count$j.txt
  done
done

i saved this file in stest.sh. When i run the file, nothing happens. I ahve to press Ctrl+C to exit back to the command prompt.
Let me also provide the path.cfg file:
MPAY
/var/xacct_data/xxxx/log_flattener/xxxx/logfile_current

FAFF
/var/xacct_data/faff/faff1/log_flattener/faffsnp1/ logfile_current
/var/xacct_data/faff/faff1/log_flattener/faffdbt1 /logfile_current
/var/xacct_data/faff/faff1/log_flattener/fafftxn1 /logfile_current
/var/xacct_data/faff/faff2/log_flattener/faffdbt2/ logfile_current

VOICE
/var/xacct_data/voice/voicex/log_flattener/ voicecolx/logfile_current
/var/xacct_data/voice/voicex/log_flattener/ voiceprox/logfile_current
/var/xacct_data/voice/voicex/log_flattener/ voicedisx/logfile_current

GPRS
/var/xacct_data/gprs/gprsx/log_flattener/gprscolx/logfile_current
/var/xacct_data/gprs/gprsx/log_flattener/gprsprox/logfile_current
/var/xacct_data/gprs/gprsx/log_flattener/gprsdisx/logfile_current

IPC
/var/xacct_data/ipc/ipcx/log_flattener/ipccolx/logfile_current
/var/xacct_data/ipc/ipcx/log_flattener/ipcprox/logfile_current
/var/xacct_data/ipc/ipcx/log_flattener/ipcdisx/logfile_current

SMS
/var/xacct_data/smsc/smscx/log_flattener/smsccolx/logfile_current
/var/xacct_data/smsc/smscx/log_flattener/smscprox/logfile_current
/var/xacct_data/smsc/smscx/log_flattener/smscdisx/logfile_current

A: In order to get specific advice, you need to provide a sample path.cfg, explain what's wrong with the script current's behavior and what the expected behavior is. That being said, there are a few red flags in your code.

*

*Use $(…) instead of `…` for command substitutions. The parsing of backquotes is rather fiddly, and you may run into issues with nested quotes.

*sed -n "11,11p" means print the 11th line only. Is this what you really wanted? I guess not, but knowing neither the format of path.cfg nor what you intended I can't tell you what that command should be.

*You should always use double quotes around variable substitutions, e.g. echo "$cpath". Only leave them out if you know it would be wrong to have them, do put them if you have no good reason to omit them. I don't think this is causing any problem here, but it's a good habit to get into when writing shell scripts.

*Why are you calling more? Piping more into another program is useless. Just write <"$cpath" grep " '&j' " | …, assuming you did want to display all the lines containing the string '&F' (and so on for other values of $j) in the file called $cpath.

*Still on this line, grep PATTERN | wc -l can just be written grep -c PATTERN.

*Still on this line, you're running wc -l on the output of wc -l, which isn't useful. I supposed you meant to run it only once. Here are two ways to write this line; the first is closed to your structure, the second is rather clearer:
<"$cpath" grep -c " '&j' " | echo "The count of '$j' in file is:  $(cat)" >"countdir/count$j.txt"
echo "The count of '$j' in file is:  $(<"$cpath" grep -c " '&j' ")" >"countdir/count$j.txt"

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Wet rock, stone formations as background.
Coral Rock-formation Close-up As The Tide Flows Out, Uvongo, South Africa Rock formation in Southern Thailand The texture of the stone has a lot of yellow mold Rocky shore and cloud sky Brown stones on background Dry palm in the dune Matera from a cave. The megalithic Mnajdra temple in Malta The town of český Krumlov.the bend of the Vltava river, which resembles the sign of infinity.


Upgraded manufactured home, located on a large 179'x181' lot, in the center of paradise with deeded access to the chain of Sauble Lakes. The home features 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, pellet fireplace in the living room, kitchen with island and dining area. There is a large entry way with a utility room just off of it. Great location for your next year around home or Up North'' getaway! In the heart of everything, hunting, fishing, recreation, and the great outdoors!


Raised relief globes can be a valuable tool to help your children learn the sometimes difficult and challenging school lessons in geography. As our world becomes increasingly dependent on the Internet, the professional corporate working environment is becoming increasingly more diverse. We are no longer relegated to working with only people who reside in her immediate local communities. The use of world globes can help your children learn the locations of the many different countries around the world at a much faster rate.
How do raise relief globes differ?
This type of globe differs slightly from a traditional version in that the surface of the globe will have smooth and bumpy surfaces. For example, the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans will be smooth to the touch, depicting the even and flat surface of a body of water. Mountain ranges will jut out slightly, providing a "raised" sensation as your child runs his or her fingers over this area.
By combining the added benefits of learning through "touch" and "sight " to the traditional forms of learning that include memorizing facts, learning about geography is not only more fun for children but significantly more interesting. Studies have proven that raised relief world globes have increased students learning retention in the classroom by alarming percentages. The differences in elevations between different the many areas of the globe help young children to better interpret what the real world is actually like.
Generally speaking, raise relief world globes tend to be significantly higher in detail then other types of globe from generations past. All versions are almost always round, spinning on a slanted axis, as opposed to a book Atlas or flat, folded map which only consists of two dimensions. Of course, children tend to find the spinning globe infinitely more interesting and fun. They also allow the child to more easily determine the distances between countries, states, cities, continents, lakes, oceans, mountains, and rivers in relation to where they are currently living today.
People learn in different ways, and children are no different. Some people are very gifted memorizing facts and details, while others are more visual and require more "hands on" learning techniques. This is partially why children are being taught computers and the Internet from a very early age, perhaps as early as first or second grade in some cases. Teachers are well aware that children need diversity in learning methods. As long as our computer screens remain flat and two-dimensional, raised relief globes will always be a useful and attractive tool for professional teachers of all grades.
Even before children enter into grammar school, they are being taught nursery rhymes that have been recited over and over for centuries. Even our fairy tales very often begin with the phrase, "Long, long ago, in a land far away…". This can be misleading to a small child. For example, if you happen to live in Northern California and the youngster is learning about the Cold War era between the United States and Russia, they might easily mistake the notion that Russia is clear on the other side of the world rather than in their own backyard. Raised relief world globes are still used today in classrooms across the world, largely for this very reason.
Professional grammar school teachers will always attest to the fact that the use of world globes in the classroom is the best method for teaching their young scholars about the reasons for the changes in season. Nearly every globe that is manufactured is designed in such a way that the earth is depicted as tilted on its axis, just as it is in real life. The equator will be clearly shown as well. Teachers can more easily explain that when it is summertime in Omaha, it is actually wintertime in Sydney, Australia. Learning about the changes of season can sometime be very difficult for young minds to grasp without the use of classroom globes.
As the child continues through grammar school, into middle school, high school, and college, the classroom globe tends to change slightly, depicting more and more information. Time zones, longitudes, and latitudes are usually shown on these more detailed versions of globes. Examples of why this would be useful include studies of the American Civil War where the Mason-Dixon Line was an integral part of history. Longitude and latitude lines also came into play when the layout of the individual states of America were determined. As we grow into adulthood, many of these early lessons become almost instinctual. We tend to forget how and when we learned them in our formative years. The educational benefit for the use of world globes in the classroom cannot go unnoticed.
Continue the education! Check out 1,000s of world globes and maps at http://www.ultimateglobes.com!


With its lovely seafront, pubs and little independent shops, Deal is a magnet for creative types and it also enjoys a really tight-knit community spirit.
for city-dwellers, this traditional seaside town is the 'real deal'.
Even in adversity – it was heavily bombed during the war and the town's barracks were bombed by the IRA in 1989 – the spirit of this little place has remained buoyant and the positivity of its residents is almost palpable.
all the cosy pubs and little independent shops you could ever ask for.
It's also always been the kind of place that attracts creative people and today boasts artists, authors, poets, musicians and film-makers among its ranks.
But over the last couple of years the retailers in and around the High Street have themselves had to become a little more creative. Showing yet more of that positive streak, Deal's shops have risen up despite the economic hardship felt by the rest of the country.
In fact, only last year Deal was named High Street of the Year by The Daily Telegraph. Praised for its local independent retailers, the judges claimed you could furnish an entire house without leaving Deal High Street.
It was music to the ears for Deal's Town Team, a voluntary group of independent retailers. Member Esme Chilton says: "Deal is a hidden gem on the coast, but for those who know and love it, we completely understand why Deal was the winning High street.
High Street of the Year has certainly helped draw people in.
Go to the theatre: Deal's Astor Theatre (CT14 6AB) is a small but elegant community theatre and arts centre with an eclectic mix of music, theatre, literary events, films and art exhibitions.
Stroll down the pier: Replacing one that had been struck by shipping during the war, the current concrete pier at Deal was opened in 1957. It might not be to everybody's taste but it's a Grade II listed building and the last remaining functional leisure pier in Kent.
Watch the time go by: Deal is famous for its time ball tower (CT14 7BP), a Victorian maritime signal like the one in Greenwich. At the top of a four-storey tower on the seafront, it's working again and can be seen rising just before the hour and dropping on the hour exactly.
There are so many places to stop for a pint of real ale, enjoy afternoon tea or step out for a dinner date in Deal. Harriet's Tearooms (CT14 6ER) and Wellington's seafront café (CT14 6HY) are both popular, as is Victual's & Co (CT14 6TA), specialising in seafood, 81 Beach Street (CT14 6JB) and the innovative Dining Club (CT14 6HP).
Great pubs include The Just Reproach (CT14 6HX), The Deal Hoy (CT14 6DU) and The Zetland Arms (CT14 8AF) in nearby Kingsdown.
Deal also has the spectacularly located Royal Hotel (CT14 6JD, 01304 375555) right on the beach and Dunkerley's (CT14 7AH) is perfect if you want to stay over after a great seafood feast in the restaurant and has great pier views.
Big chain stores, including M&S and Boots, feature on the High Street but it is independents that Deal is known for.
Try Taylor-Jones and Son for art, vintage and all kinds of fascinating gifts (CT14 6BG), clothing boutique Tamarisk (CT14 6EH), Quirky Giftz (CT14 6HE) and the Swanstitch craft shop (CT14 6EG).
How long have you lived in Deal?
I lived in Deal as a child. I left in my late teens but came back often to visit family and moved back a couple of years ago. I love that the town has survived so much; the closure of the pits, the IRA bomb, storms and floods and hurricanes, and yet never lost its spirit.
We have had something of an economic revival with a lot of people visiting from London and further afield but we haven't undergone the homogeny suffered by a lot of other seaside towns. The people of Deal are still very real and very present.
I am a writer who also teaches creative writing. I run a writing course in Deal's community theatre, The Astor, and my first novel, This Green and Pleasant Land, is published this spring.
Why so many creatives here?
There are some very interesting people in Deal and they do some really diverse things that all benefit the community. There are literally hundreds of artists, musicians and writers living here. I think a lot of that is down to community support and encouragement; it drives people to try. Some things are more successful than others but people dare to put their creativity out there and that's what matters.
My three favourite shops are definitely Taylor-Jones and Son (CT14 6BG), Dunlin and Diver (CT14 6EE), and Fox and Spindle (CT14 6HX). The range of lovely things in those three can keep me going for hours. We are lucky enough to have a thriving music shop – Mark 1 Music (CT14 7BN) – and a bustling Saturday market.
The Just Reproach (CT14 6HX) was actually instrumental in my moving back to Deal. My husband and I had been mulling over the idea and chanced upon this fantastic micropub, three years ago, in the first weeks it was open. Our other favourites are The Berry (CT14 7EQ) – a brilliant real ale pub at the opposite end of town – and Borough Wines (CT14 6EE), a little French wine bar with a great atmosphere.
Food-wise I love Wellington's (CT14 6HY) on the sea front, Milaad Tandoori (CT14 6HT) and 81 Beach Street (CT14 6JB).
"Deal is not just good to paint, it is fantastic to paint. The main reason being that every time you leave the house you see something different.
People tell me constantly that Deal looks different every single day, and it is absolutely true. When it rains you see the boatmen sheltering under their bright blue tarpaulin and the rain on the shingle changes the colour of the beach to a rich dark orange.
When the first spring sun begins to turn the winter lemon light into just a hint of cadmium orange, the sunshine falls in perfect 45 degree triangles over the shops of the High Street, and the moisture in the air makes all the shadows cornflower blue. From Deal Pier you can see the impossibility of ever representing the sea in paint. The sea is lighter than the sky, then it is greener, then darker and blacker, and best of all, in the spring the boundary between sea and sky disappears altogether!
It's still an affordable part of the county. Five-bedroom detached homes start at around £460,000, with three-bed houses between £170,000 and £450,000 and one-bed flats kicking off at £90,000.
Jenkinson (01304 278050) and Thomas and Partners (01304 278021) are two of the estate agents with offices in Deal.
Deal Farmers' Market: the first Saturday of the month at the Astor Theatre (CT14 6AB).
Weekly markets: Wednesdays and Fridays at the town hall (CT14 6TR) and Saturdays in the Union Road car park (CT14 6EA).
Deal is halfway between Ramsgate and Dover on the coast. Accessible by road via the A2 from Canterbury, it also has a train station that can take you to Charing Cross in just over two hours, and now High Speed to St.Pancras in just over 1 hour!


EMC Group comprises of six hospitality venues, all demonstrating innovation in their respective genre and considered industry leaders in the Geelong region hospitality scene. Within each brand sits a team of dedicated professionals who challenge, train and encourage each individual member to strive for greatness within their role. We're a dedicated bunch who live and breathe customer service and that's why we're considered Geelong's premium hospitality group! Check out our venues below and see what our family looks like.


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Disco Elysium — рольова відеогра, розроблена та випущена естонсько-британською студією ZA/UM. Гра натхненна рольовими іграми Infinity Engine, її сюжет написав і створив дизайн естонський романіст Роберт Курвіц. Вийшла для Microsoft Windows  року, а вихід на PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5 та Xbox One відбувся у 2021 році.

Сюжет оповідає про детектива, який розслідує зі своїм напарником таємниче вбивство. Ця справа виявляється доленосною, ставши нагодою переосмислити своє життя та відшукати вирішення особистих проблем.

Ігровий процес
Disco Elysium являє собою рольову відеогру з відкритим світом і велике значення приділяє діалогам. Ігровий процес демонструється в ізометричній проєкції, і для переміщення персонажа, взаємодії з іншими персонажами і предметами в світі гри використовується інтерфейс «point and click». У грі немає битв і окремої бойової системи в традиційному для рольових відеоігор сенсі — всі дії, що їх вимагають ігрові ситуації, демонструються і вирішуються через дерева діалогів і випробування навичок.

У грі чотири основні групи навичок: інтелект, психіка, фізика і моторика, кожному з них відповідає шість різних вторинних навичок — в цілому їх 24. На початку пропонується розподілити 12 очок навичок. Нові очки отримуються внаслідок набору досвіду за виконання завдань; навички також можуть посилити чи послабити екіпіровкою деяких предметів.

Disco Elysium має «шафу думок», куди екіпірується певна ідея, отримана внаслідок спілкування з іншими персонажами чи виявлення особливих предметів. Після екіпірування ідея якийсь час обдумується і дає бонуси та штрафи до навичок: деякі діють на час обдумування, інші лишаються назавжди. Спершу доступні 3 комірки ідей, але витрачаючи очки навичок, їх можна отримати разом 12.

Сюжет

Світ гри
Дія гри розгортається в світі Елізіум приблизно рівня середини XX століття, що постраждав від містичного катаклізму. Світ має форму диска, як припускають місцеві вчені. Елізіум складається з «ізолів» (isolas) — масивів суші та морів, відокремлених один від одного туманною субстанцією Бляклістю (Pale), де поступово порушуються закони реальності. Бляклість повільно поширюється світом. Тривале перебування в ній може спричинити психічну нестабільність, а пересування нею, що зазвичай виконується за допомогою аеростатів, вважається дуже небезпечним.

Нації та народи в Disco Elysium зазвичай дотримуються чотирьох основних ідеологій: комунізму, фашизму, моралізаторства та ультралібералізму. Комунізм, також званий мазовізмом, був заснований економістом та історичним матеріалістом на ім'я Крас Мазов, і замість того, щоб асоціюватися з червоним кольором і серпом і молотом, ця ідеологія натомість представлена білим кольором і пентаграмою, оточеною парою оленячих рогів. Моралізм, незважаючи на те, що він є центристською ідеологією, має релігійні відтінки через його асоціацію з найбільшою релігією Елізіуму, долоріанством. Однією з домінантних постатей долоріанства є «Непорочні» (Innocences), особи, схожі на святих, які, як кажуть, є «втіленнями історії» і володіють великою релігійною та політичною владою протягом свого життя, подібно до посади Папи Римського. Найвеличнішою та найвпливовішою серед історичних «Непорочних» була Долорес Деї, жінка таємничого походження, яка нібито мала сяйливі легені та заснувала багато інституцій світу. Завдяки впливу Долорес Деї символом кохання у світі Disco Elysium є легені, а не серце.

Сюжет Disco Elysium відбуваються в бідному районі міста Ревачоль на острові Інсулінде. За сорок дев'ять років до подій гри хвиля комуністичних революцій охопила кілька країн; тоді могутня монархія Ревачоля, що мала колонії по всьому, була повалена та замінена комуною. Через шість років комуну Ревачоля подолали інтервенти моралістсько-капіталістичних націй під назвою «Коаліція». Відтоді Ревачоль має статус Спеціального адміністративного регіону під керівництвом Коаліції. Однією з галузей, де Ревачоль має самостійність, є діяльність Громадянської міліції Ревачоля (Revachol Citizens Militia, RCM). До неї належать двоє детективів, які і є головними героями.

Дія
Персонаж гравця прокидається в кімнаті готелю «Танці в ганчір'ї» з важким похміллям, не пам'ятаючи хто він. Герой зустрічає лейтенанта Кіма Кіцурагі, який повідомляє, що їм обом доручено розслідувати повішення чоловіка на задньому дворі кафетерію. Особа загиблого невідома, попередній огляд показує, що його повісила група людей. Детективи досліджують район Ревачоля під назвою Мартінез, шукають докази й допомагають мешканцям у виконанні різноманітних завдань. Обоє знайомляться з підлітком-інформатором Куно, який забезпечує їх підказками, та дізнаються чутку про таємничу істоту, що живе за містом.

Поступово герой дізнається, що він детектив RCM, лейтенант Гаррієр «Гаррі» Дюбуа. Кілька років тому Гаррі пережив подію, яка спричинила тривала депресію і досягла апогею в ніч, коли його викликали розслідувати повішення невідомого. Гаррі самовпевнено відмовився від допомоги колег, вирішивши завершити цю справу або померти.

Гаррі та Кім знаходять свідчення, що вбивство пов'язане з тривалим страйком профспілки докерів Мартінеза проти корпорації «Wild Pines». Вони шукають представників докерів і корпорації, зустрічаються з керівником профспілки Євраром Клером і посередницею «Wild Pines» Джойс Мессьє. Джойс розповідає, що повішений чоловік на ім'я Лелі був командиром загону найманців, посланого «Wild Pines» для придушення страйкарів. Віона попереджає, що решта загону стала бандитами та ймовірно прагнуть помсти.

Детективи роблять висновок, що повішення Лелі було маскуванням, а насправді його вбили раніше. Відповідальність за вбивство бере на себе група докерів «Hardie Boys», яка слідкує за громадським порядком. Вони стверджують, що Лелі намагався зґвалтувати гостю кафе на ім'я Клаас'є. Потім детективи зустрічаються з Клаас'є, яка розповідає, що в них був секс за згодою, але Лелі в цей час хтось підстрелив. Боячись, що це пов'язано з колишнім заняттям шпигунством, Клаас'є заручилася допомогою водійки вантажівки Рубі, яка інсценувала повішення Лелі разом з рештою «Hardie Boys». Детективи знаходять Рубі, яка ховається в покинутій будівлі, і вона приголомшує обох пристроєм, що працює на Бляклості. Гравцям пропонується або боротися, або вивести з ладу пристрій і спробувати заарештувати Рубі. Вона, вважаючи Гаррі корумпованим поліцейським, або тікає, або скоює самогубство.

Детективи повертаються до свого району та опиняються в протистоянні між найманцями та «Hardie Boys». Починається перестрілка, в якій Гаррі ранять і він отямлюється лише за кілька днів. Більшість або всі найманці до того часу вбиті, а Кім може бути госпіталізований, і в цьому випадку інформатор Куно підмовляє Гаррі, щоб він зробив його своїм напарником замість Кіма. В усякому разі команда детективів продовжує розслідування та визначає, що Лелі застрелили зі старого морського форту біля берега Мартінеза.

Оглянувши форт, детективи знаходять стрільця, колишнього комісара комуністичної армії Ревачоля на ім'я Йосип Ліліанович Дрос. Йосип розповідає, що він застрелив Лелі через його належність до капіталістів і через заздрощі, що той має стосунки з Клаас'є. Детективи заарештовують Йосипа, та в цей момент з очерету з'являється величезна комаха, легендарний інсуліндійський фазмід. Гаррі може погодитися на телепатичну розмову з фазмідом, який каже Гаррі, що вважає його божевільним, але в захваті від його здатності продовжувати існування, що втішає Гаррі. Фазмід також може висловити думку про Бляклість, що це реакція природи на своє забруднення людьми.

Гаррі та Кім повертаються в місто, де колеги розмірковують про дії Гаррі. Постійний партнер Гаррі, лейтенант Жан Віккемар повідомляє, що емоційний зрив Гаррі став результатом розлуки з нареченою Дорою шість років тому. Залежно від вибору гравця, команда висловлює надію, що в майбутньому справи Гаррі покращаться, і запрошує його, Кіма, або Куно до спеціального підрозділу RCM. Крім того, проваливши випробування деяких характеристик, Гаррі може померти, його можуть убити, або він зникне безвісти.

Головні персонажі

 Гаррієр «Гаррі» Дюбуа () — протагоніст гри, лейтенант дабл-єфрейтор RCM, голова спецпідрозділу 41-ї дільниці з розслідування особливо тяжких злочинів. Прибувши до району Мартінез разом зі своїм загоном розслідувати вбивство, він вирішує піти у запій, внаслідок якого втрачає пам'ять. Амнезія Гаррі є наслідком тривалої депресії, якої він може позбутися, розслідуючи вбивство, або поглибити її та піти з RCM.
 Кім Кіцурагі () — лейтенант RCM з 57-ї дільниці, напарник Гаррі у справі в Мартінезі. Належить до дільниці-конкурентки, але попри це надає допомогу в розслідуванні. Він допитливий, постійно занотовує щось у записник; захоплюється автомобілями та науковою фантастикою, що має певний вплив на його обізнаність. Кім дуже дорожить своєю репутацією та уникає емоційної близькості. Може бути поранений під час трибуналу найманців та потрапити до лікарні. В іншому випадку залишиться супутником Гаррі до кінця гри і може приєднатися до спецзагону 41-ї дільниці.
 Жан Вікмар () — лейтенант і сателіт-офіцер RCM, заступник голови спецзагону 41-ї дільниці, первісний напарник і найкращий друг Гаррі. Бере на себе командування підрозділом, коли Гаррі покидає його. Жак повертається до Мартінеза після того, як його Гаррі втрачає пам'ять, щоб особисто простежити за станом і діями Гаррі, який заборонив команді допомагати йому в розслідуванні.
 Жюдіт Міно () — патрульна офіцер RCM, член спецзагону 41-ї дільниці. Тимчасово стає напарницею Жана, коли Гаррі намірюється самотужки розкрити злочин. Жюдіт приїжджає з Жаном назад до Мартінеза, щоб з'ясувати, що сталося з детективом і як йому можна допомогти.
 Трент Гайдельстам () — позаштатний консультант RCM, член спецзагону 41-ї дільниці. Повертається в Мартінез на прохання Жана, щоб допомогти оцінити психічний стан Гаррі і те, чи здатний він продовжувати керувати їхнім спецзагоном і працювати в міліції.
 Куно () або Кууно де Рютер () — 12-річний підліток із неблагополучної родини, інформатор. Більшість жителів району вважають його хуліганом і психом. Куно поважає силу і за правильного підходу може надати цінні підказки. Якщо Кім виявиться поранений під час перестрілки, Куно вирішить допомогти Гаррі завершити розслідування, після чого може бути прийнятий до молодших офіцерів 41-ї дільниці.
 Джойс Месьє або Реджойс Лейтон-Месьє () — представниця корпорації «Wild Pines», насправді — одна з її власниць. Прибула до Мартінеза, щоб вирішити ситуацію із страйком портових робітників. Допомагає Гаррі в розслідуванні. Якщо детектив повідомить їй про справжні наміри Єврара Клера, Джойс вирішить не ризикувати життям безневинних людей і залишить боротьбу за гавань Мартінеза.
 Єврар Клер () — голова профспілки портових робітників Мартінеза та найвпливовіша людина району. Погодиться допомогти у розслідуванні за умови, що детектив виконає кілька його завдань. Потурає страйку, маючи намір розв'язати справжню війну з «Wild Pines» і позбавити корпорацію будь-якого впливу в Мартінезі.
 Клаас'є Аманду () — постоялиця готелю «Танці в ганчір'ї», танцівниця диско, насправді шпигунка-втікачка та головний свідок убивства. Мала стосунки з убитим і заручилася допомогою Тита та Рубі, щоб замасквати його вбивство як повішення, оскільки пов'язувала це зі своїм шпигунським минулим. Якщо детектив вирішить заарештувати Клаас'є, вона загине у в'язниці, за іншого ж розкладі вона сховається у невідомому напрямі.
 Тит Гарді () — портовий робітник, лідер народної дружини «Hardie Boys», яка підтримує порядок у Мартінезі. Був закоханий у Клаас'є, тому допоміг відвести підозри від неї та взяв колективну відповідальність за смерть Лелі на себе та свою команду. Може загинути у перестрілці з найманцями, які вважають його вбивцею свого командира.
 Рубі () — водійка-далекобійниця, що збувала наркотики, прихильниця профспілки. Ревнувала Клаас'є до Лелі, тому сприяла їй у приховуванні справжніх обставин загибелі найманця. Почала бігти, як тільки почула про прибуття Гаррі в Мартінез, оскільки злякалася, що він здасть її ватажку злочинної банди Ла Пута Мадре. Детектив може відпустити Рубі або спробувати заарештувати її, через що вона покінчить життя самогубством.
 Елліс «Лелі» Кортенар () — полковник і командир загону найманців «Кренель», прийомний брат Рауля і жертва вбивства. Зі своїм загоном був найнятий корпорацією «Wild Pines» із метою придушення страйку. Під час перебування у Мартінезі перебував у стосунках із Клаас'є. Загинув від кульового поранення в голову, коли вони кохалися.
 Рауль «Корті» Кортенар () — сержант-майор і член загону найманців «Кренель», прийомний брат Лелі. Після загибелі свого брата вдавав із себе пацифіста і марно вичікував, допоки поліція знайде справжнього злочинця. Разом з іншими найманцями вирішив влаштувати суд при допомозі Гарді. Може загинути під час перестрілки.
 Йосип Ліліанович Дрос () — антагоніст гри, старий снайпер і комісар Ревачольської комуни, вбивця Лелі. Після провалу революції в місті жив у руїнах форту на острові поряд з узбережжям Мартінеза. Через вплив феромонів фазміда мав різні проблеми з психікою, як і потяг до Клаас'є, тому в нападі ревнощів застрелив найманця, що перебував із нею. Заарештований Гаррі та його напарником за вбивство Лелі.

Відгуки критиків

Середня оцінка гри на Metacritic склала 91 бал зі 100. Disco Elysium отримала загальне визнання критиків, особливо виділили її наратив та систему діалогів. Вона була номінована та здобула кілька престижних нагород.

Згідно з Саймоном Карді з IGN, основу привабливості Disco Elysium складає те, що кожне рішення в ній має свій наслідок, а кожен персонаж представлений живописним портретом, з якого одразу зрозуміло що за людина перед вами. «Disco Elysium — це унікальне поєднання нуарного детективу, традиційних рольових ігор з олівцем і папером за значної частки теорії екзистенціалізму. Її заплутаний сюжет, склад персонажів, що запам'ятовуються, і величезна глибина вибору створюють незабутнє враження. Не дивлячись на кілька дрібних зауважень, вона досягає майже всіх поставлених цілей і змушує мене прагнути проводити більше часу в її світі».

Енді Келлі з PC Gamer охарактеризував гру як дуже гнучку детективну історію, що запозичує класичні елементи з подібних ігор, але надає небувалу свободу в створенні психологічного образу свого персонажа. Мартінез — це «жахливе місце, наповнене жахливими виродками», в якому є проблиски тепла та людяності. Список завдань постійно оновлюється і їх можна виконувати в будь-якому порядку, при тому що всі вони взаємопов'язані. Це створює пластичний сюжет і персонажів, які забезпечують неодноразове цікаве проходження гри.

Девід Вайлдґус із GameSpot писав, що «Disco Elysium — це божевільна розгалужена детективна історія, у якій справжня справа, яку вам потрібно розгадати, полягає не в тому, хто вбив людину, яка висіла на дереві посеред міста… це дослідження ідей, способу нашого мислення, влади та привілеїв, а також того, як усі ми сформовані… суспільством, у якому перебуваємо». На думку критика, «Якість тексту неперевершена — потужна, поетична, захоплива та весела»; система навичок добре інтегрована до сюжету та суттєво впливає на навіть дрібні деталі, а довкілля сповнене таємниць, попри зовнішню убогість.

Нагороди
На The Game Awards 2019 Disco Elysium перемогла в усіх чотирьох номінаціях: «Найкращий наратив», «Найкраща незалежна гра», «Найкраща рольова гра», і «Свіжа гра». Премія D.I.C.E. Awards була присуджена Disco Elysium 2020 року в номінації «Видатні досягнення в сюжеті». Нагороду Game Developers Choice Awards гра отримала за «Найкращий наратив», а студія ZA/UM за «Найкращий дебют». На British Academy Games Awards Disco Elysium присудили нагороди як дебютній грі, за музику та наратив. Крім того гра отримала нагороду SXSW Gaming Awards у номінаціях «Досягнення в наративі» та «Нагорода культурних інновацій Метью Крампа».

Інтернет-видання Slant Magazine, USGamer, PC Gamer, і Zero Punctuation визнали її грою року 2019. Журнал «Time» вніс її до переліку найкращих відеоігор 2010-х.

Гра також номінувалася на премію з фантастики «Неб'юла» в номінації «Найкращий сценарій гри».

Локалізація
Гра доступна англійською мовою (озвучення, інтерфейс, субтитри). Інтерфейс і субтитри гри також доступні китайською, іспанською, корейською, португальською, французькою, німецькою та російською мовами. У майбутньому планується переклад Disco Elysium українською мовою. За це проголосували користувачі на спеціальному сервісі колективного перекладу, створеному розробниками гри.

Див. також
 Свята і страшна пахощ

Примітки

Відеоігри з відкритим світом
Ігри для PlayStation 4
Рольові відеоігри
Відеоігри, розроблені у Великій Британії
Відеоігри з ізометричною графікою
Ігри для Windows
Ігри для Xbox One
Відеоігри 2019

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


I was pleased to be among the Madisonians who met today with Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Gina McCarthy. She had the opportunity to learn more about what Madison, through the assistance of Sustain Dane, has done with the MPower program. It was really inspiring to listen to speakers like Kate Schachter of Union Cab Cooperative, John Mulcahey with UW Health and Ross Hansen of CUNA Mutual. Those business leaders have made great strides in increasing energy efficiency through MPower initiatives.
Ross Hansen with CUNA Mutual talked about the number of employees who have started to bike to work as a result of their MPower involvement.
Sustain Dane, with leadership from Jessie Lerner and her staff, has overseen the MPower program with the EPA grant and funding from Madison Gas and Electric. As a result of the five-year program, over 240 MPower projects have been implemented for a total savings to businesses involved of $916,000.
It was great to hear Gina McCarthy talk about her impressions of Madison and of our new 'repurposed' library. We are doing a great job as we work to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. As I told the many attendees who were at today's event, I felt lucky to be there but they were the people who did all the work.
On Saturday, September 21st, Madison will open its new Central Library, a symbol of our city's commitment to learning, creating, and thinking. This is not your mother's or father's library and it is not even your childhood library. This is your library of the future.
The Central Library includes traditional books and library services and also has welcoming spaces, innovative programming that showcases community expertise and new technologies that offer residents interactive and exciting new ways of learning, connecting, and sharing ideas with others. Space previously dedicated to books and periodicals are now occupied by computer stations, which no longer resemble call center cubicles but are real work areas.
As demographics change and technology rapidly advances, the role of public libraries is evolving. Modern libraries retain their traditional values but are also enhanced by the latest technological innovations. The new Central Library offers five times more public computers, Wi-Fi throughout the building, a fully equipped Media Lab and expert staff assistance. The Central Library is technologically advanced.
Libraries are serving as busy neighborhood community centers and the new Central Library is a shining example of the new role public libraries play in community building. The new library offers an abundance of meeting spaces and programs that invite residents to gather and share ideas and experiences. Meeting rooms are no longer focused just on the needs of a lecturer but provide the latest interactive technology for real group dynamics.
Engaged staff offer equitable access to tools which allow residents to learn and discover the information they need to lead healthy and engaged lives. The new Central Library also serves as a celebration of creative expression, showcasing art by local and national artists. Many of the features in the new library – from lighting to building materials to the very concept of a shared library collection – are environmentally sensitive and focus on sustainable use of shared resources.
I invite you to experience the new Central Library. And bring friends and family, they will thank you for offering up a new adventure.
Join us this weekend, September 21-22, 2013 at the Central Library's Grand opening festivities.
I hope that you have had a chance to stop in at the lobby of the City County Building, 210 Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd this week. From September 16-20, there is a display, called Remembering our Fallen. It honors the men and women from Wisconsin who have died in the War on Terror.
It is an incredibly compelling display and I urge everyone to spend some time looking at the faces of the young men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. One cannot help but think of their families, the empty chairs at tables, the celebrations they will miss, and the people missing them. We owe those families a debt of gratitude as well.
The Dane County Council of the American Legion sponsors this traveling exhibition. That group is also holding a Remembrance Ceremony at the display on Friday September 20 at 11:00 a.m. I will be speaking along with County Executive Joe Parisi and Purple Heart Veteran Jason Johns. The ceremony will conclude with a reading of the names displayed on the memorial.
On Tuesday, September 17, 2013 the city of Madison held a competitive sale of debt to raise funds for capital projects and equipment. The winning bid of 2.16%, which will cost about $600,000 less than the highest bid of 2.33%, reflects current market conditions and the city's Aaa bond rating.
In recent years, winning bids included a reoffering premium. When a bid includes a 'premium' it means the purchasers of the city's debt are willing to pay cash upfront in order to receive higher interest payments from the city in future years.
The city placed a maximum price on the bonds. The goal was to obtain a targeted premium amount of $4 million, which was factored into my Executive Capital Budget. Prior to my taking office, the city was using this premium to help fund on-going operating costs . This violates a sound budgetary principle. Irregular revenue sources should only be used to fund programs that do not occur year after year.
It is my goal to use the $4 million in premium to fund capital projects-that will reduce the need for additional borrowing in the future. Hopefully, despite disagreements on this point in the past two budget years, the city council will agree. In 2011, when I came into office, the city was projected to spend 20% of its operating budget on debt. Prudent decisions, despite some tough budget disagreements with the city council, means that, if the council adopts the recommended capital and operating budgets, only 14% of our 2014 budget will be devoted to paying off debt.