News for today's 2018: 11/26/12

sLAB Costa Rica, Part 2

9:00 PM Tukiyooo 0

Back in April I featured <a href="http://archidose.blogspot.com/2012/04/half-dose-103-slab-costa-rica.html">sLAB Costa Rica</a>, a design-build project of NYIT that aims to build a communal recycling center in Nosara on the country's Pacific coast. Their initial Kickstarter campaign was successful, allowing students to travel over the summer to help in the project's construction. But, as professor Tobias Holler states on their <a href="http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/472474365/slab-costa-rica-building-the-nosara-recycling-cent">new Kickstarter page</a>, "the project is far from completed, and much work remains to be done before the building is ready to help with the local waste management problem." Holler and his students are hoping to return between semesters in January 2013 to continue volunteering on the construction site.<br /><br /><iframe frameborder="0" height="480" src="http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/472474365/slab-costa-rica-building-the-nosara-recycling-cent/widget/video.html" width="640"> </iframe><br /><br />Check out the above video for more on the project, and please visit the <a href="http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/472474365/slab-costa-rica-building-the-nosara-recycling-cent">sLAB Costa Rica Part 2 Kickstarter page</a> for even more information and to donate before the December 13 deadline for this worthy project.

sLAB Costa Rica, Part 2

Back in April I featured sLAB Costa Rica, a design-build project of NYIT that aims to build a communal recycling center in Nosara on the country's Pacific coast. Their initial Kickstarter campaign was successful, allowing students to travel over the …

If You're Happy, I'm Happy

9:00 PM Tukiyooo 0

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Hola y’all! One of the things I tell people all the time is “If you’re happy, I’m happy.” I’m always amazed at how often people think I’m being a smart-ass or joking with them when I say that. It’s a little hurtful even to be honest with you. Why would people think I’m not being sincere? Why do people always think I’m joking when I’m being serious and think I’m being serious when I’m just joking? <br /><br />ANSWERS! I WANT ANSWERS! <br /><br />Actually I know the answer. It’s because most people are the opposite. They love it when others are miserable or when bad things happen to them and are themselves miserable when good things happen to their “friends.” I’ve never quite understood this attitude, but I see it play out all the time on social media sites. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib9Bm47FEFZk0XtKoEaeAoRTsnc2rfGHtwhy4yVjju6KMKVu_sM301CIxF4zt-3JxaFDxMpg76q2QRkTf1IOdphsyVsVyn2oaKqZlpMhXcQREC_-Cvi2eC-czdC_ZFqfWEiZaQC9Q26BU/s1600/arkansas-cheerleader.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib9Bm47FEFZk0XtKoEaeAoRTsnc2rfGHtwhy4yVjju6KMKVu_sM301CIxF4zt-3JxaFDxMpg76q2QRkTf1IOdphsyVsVyn2oaKqZlpMhXcQREC_-Cvi2eC-czdC_ZFqfWEiZaQC9Q26BU/s320/arkansas-cheerleader.jpg" width="236" /></a></div>Anyhoodle, as you probably know, I’m a pretty good sports fan. I have a few teams that I’m a die-hard fan of. I’m a fan of the Arkansas Razorbacks, San Antonio Spurs, St. Louis Cardinals, New Orleans Saints, New York Knicks and the Houston Texans. <br /><br />I really on have a few teams that I dislike and never root for: Alabama, Auburn, Duke, THE Ohio State University, Los Angeles Lakers and the Chicago Cubs. For the most part this is because of their fans more than anything else.  <br /><br />Generally the rest of the teams don’t mean much to me, unless I’m friends with someone who is a fan of a certain team. In that case, I generally root for my friend’s team to win because I want my friend to be happy.<span style="color: red;">* </span><br /><br />Hell, this weekend Arkansas lost to LSU in football, but I wasn’t that upset about it. That’s because my BFF, the lovely and talented Ms. <a href="https://twitter.com/warrior_kat" target="_blank">Warrior_Kat </a>is a HUGE LSU fan and I knew she would be happy that they one. And I like it when she’s happy, so that mitigated the disappointment in MY TEAM losing. (It also helped that Arkansas is a piece of shit football team and I already knew they would lose, but I was still happy that Kat was happy.)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUohwHewS5sEqP5TMXv_D-lHGMo_jIdFhyMWic63-0v1PP4V-TPxwnOs2CNkJLdIq7QMgG5PcxuLbPxjMOfmVM6JPma6mPfHaEdDI18zXyKKYp8gtaVZ6Zdzl6X1hxJ_LLRhKeZ9YjXYM/s1600/Notre+Dame+Cheerleader.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUohwHewS5sEqP5TMXv_D-lHGMo_jIdFhyMWic63-0v1PP4V-TPxwnOs2CNkJLdIq7QMgG5PcxuLbPxjMOfmVM6JPma6mPfHaEdDI18zXyKKYp8gtaVZ6Zdzl6X1hxJ_LLRhKeZ9YjXYM/s320/Notre+Dame+Cheerleader.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>I used to hate Notre Dame. I ranked them right up there with Ohio State and Duke when it came to rude, obnoxious, condescending and generally insufferable fan bases. And, I have <strike>an irrational</strike> a perfectly legit and reasonable dislike of Lou Holtz. But, over the years as Notre Dame has struggled, I’ve found their fans to be far less delusional than fans of other schools and pro teams when their teams begin to suck. <br /><br />And, my good friend and <s>lover</s> partner in crime Matt-Man is a big Notre Dame fan. So, I’ve actually found myself rooting the Irish this season, which feels a little weird. If Matt wasn’t a big Notre Dame fan, I would have still watched them this season because they’re a good team and I would certainly be ready to root for them in the BCS Championship against Alabama! But, because he is a fan, I have actually rooted for them all season. <br /><br />I know people have the exact opposite attitude. Or even worse, they feel the need to refer to everyone other than their team as the enemy and find a reason to HATE them and their fans. I have a former friend who is a former friend because she took this to real extremes over … BASEBALL! Yes, the most insignificant of all sports and for her everyone her team played was full of horrible human beings and the fans of her team’s opponents were all scumbags and whatever other names she came up with to call them. I just don’t understand that shit. <br /><br />This “If you’re happy, I’m happy” attitude extends beyond sports too. That was just the best example I could come up with. I know a lot of people live pretty miserable lives and I guess that’s why they get so much pleasure out of bad things happening to others. I don’t understand why though, it’s not like it makes your life any less miserable for other people to suffer too. I guess getting pleasure out of other people’s misfortune is just a character flaw.<br /><br />Jayman<br /><a href="mailto:Jayman3768@gmail.com">Jayman3768@gmail.com</a><br /><a href="http://www.twitter.com/jayman_iws" target="_blank">@Jayman_IWS </a><br /><br /><span style="color: red;">*</span>This attitude doesn’t extend to politics though. While I feel bad for you if your team loses a big game and you’re down or sad, I can’t feel that way because you were hoping Mitt Romney would win. Sorry. <br /><br />In other news we had a “<a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/im-with-stupid/2012/11/26/cyber-monday-extravaganza" target="_blank">Cyber Monday Extravaganza</a>” on a special Monday edition of IWS. There was a minor technical glitch early on, but after we got past that, we had a pretty good time. So, check it out! <br /><br /><object classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.adobe.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=9,0,0,0" height="105" id="143577" name="143577" width="210"><param name="movie" value="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/btrplayer.swf?file=http://www.blogtalkradio.com%2Fplaylist.aspx%3Fshow_id%3D4062873&autostart=false&bufferlength=5&volume=80&corner=rounded&callback=http://www.blogtalkradio.com/flashplayercallback.aspx" /><param name="quality" value="high" /><param name="wmode" value="transparent" /><param name="menu" value="false" /><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always" /><embed src="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/btrplayer.swf" flashvars="file=http://www.blogtalkradio.com%2Fplaylist.aspx%3Fshow_id%3D4062873&autostart=false&shuffle=false&callback=http://www.blogtalkradio.com/FlashPlayerCallback.aspx&width=210&height=105&volume=80&corner=rounded" width="210" height="105" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer" quality="high" wmode="transparent" menu="false" name="143577" id="143577" allowScriptAccess="always"></embed></object><br /><div style="font-size: 10px; text-align: center; width: 220px;">Listen to <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/">internet radio</a> with <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/im-with-stupid">Im With Stupid</a> on Blog Talk Radio</div><br /><br /></div>

If You're Happy, I'm Happy

Hola y’all! One of the things I tell people all the time is “If you’re happy, I’m happy.” I’m always amazed at how often people think I’m being a smart-ass or joking with them when I say that. It’s a little hurtful even to be honest with you. Why wou…

STRATEGIC FALLOUT FROM GAZA:

7:09 PM Tukiyooo 0

<br /> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1PyV6LQFzjxP4FpYMpOlMSoL6ExNtAFpLU3lwCrxexgQWFSxaxNAlcTGEQr81_cefRUS-td_HqZBhLBbfS2P9IhgHb-mEvGqIwzLiBfDlgb3J5AmZzJoePGsGojTFb_Z5OB1rxb6A2gQj/s1600/gaza-israel-conflict-settlements.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1PyV6LQFzjxP4FpYMpOlMSoL6ExNtAFpLU3lwCrxexgQWFSxaxNAlcTGEQr81_cefRUS-td_HqZBhLBbfS2P9IhgHb-mEvGqIwzLiBfDlgb3J5AmZzJoePGsGojTFb_Z5OB1rxb6A2gQj/s400/gaza-israel-conflict-settlements.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">IS IT TIME FOR ACTIVE DETERRENCE? </span></b></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">By Anthony Rusonik via Geopoliticalmonitor </span></span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">For those interested enough to dive deeper- beyond the tweets, the public relations campaigns, and the moral indignation that muddies the waters of clear analysis- there  are some lessons to be learned from the most recent round in the ISRAEL-Gaza  conflict.<br /><br />The first lesson, of course, is that this is indeed just the most recent round. The ceasefire <span> </span>is sure to be inconclusive and no political impasse will be broken. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">On the diplomatic level, Hamas remains in power, continues to reject ISRAEL’S right to exist, and retains significant –albeit not unlimited—support within the ARAB world, TURKEY and IRAN.  Regional dynamics are unchanged. International dynamics are unchanged, with the US and other Western powers committed to unenthusiastic but consistent expressions of ISRAEL’S right to self-defense. ISRAEL itself remains unchanged in its approach to the Palestinian question. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">At the simplest level, Jerusalem is eager to restore the status quo ante: no Gaza rockets, no ISRAELI retaliation. Questions of a greater détente with Gaza that might lead to an easing of the blockade are seldom raised, as Hamas rejectionism seems to make such considerations impossible from Jerusalem’s point-of-view.<br /><br /></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><u><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Background Information</span></u></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">: See: <b><span style="color: red;">W</span></b></span><b><span style="color: red; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">ho is really besieging Gaza? </span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><a href="http://news-these-days.blogspot.com.ar/2012/11/israel-and-gaza.html">http://news-these-days.blogspot.com.ar/2012/11/israel-and-gaza.html</a></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">WEST BANK PALESTINIANS, ALTHOUGH AGGRIEVED, DID NOT ENGAGE</span></b></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">If there are political notes to taken from this, then the first point of interest is that the West Bank Palestinians, although aggrieved, did not engage.  A second point is that Egypt is still the foundation for a stable Middle East. Despite his Muslim Brotherhood associations and the anti-Western and anti-ISRAEL sentiment of his people, President Morsi remains a clear-headed and pragmatic statesman for EGYPT. Both Hamas and ISRAEL turned to Morsi to broker a cease-fire, and EGYPT remains the sole party with influence on both combatants. TURKEY’S reckless rhetoric, on the other hand, put Prime Minister Erdogan on the outside, even though the TURKS and the ISRAELIS–despite Ravi Marmara– have natural shared interests in both a stable Gaza and, of course, containment of the conflict in SYRIA.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">GREATER DIVIDE BETWEEN HAMAS AND FATAH?</span></b></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><br /><br />So, again, there is little reason to expect significant political or diplomatic change from the current conflict.  In the interim, at most we may see a greater divide between Hamas and Fatah, where the latter is determined to pursue its UN bid for Palestinian statehood, while the former wants no part of the recognition this would bestow upon ISRAEL. In turn, ISRAEL may at most offer a state with provisional borders, a move it had pondered even before the current round of hostilities.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">VICTORY FOR ISRAEL ON A FRONT THAT MAY PROVE DECISIVE- AND DETERMINE FUTURE STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS- BY ISRAEL</span></b></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><br /><br />Despite all appearances of continued political deadlock, however, the present conflict is nonetheless a watershed. It represents a victory for ISRAEL on a front that may prove decisive- and determine future strategic directions- if the ISRAELIS opt to pursue it. This is of course the fact that the Iron Dome anti-missile system exceeded all expectations.  </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">ISRAEL’S AIR FORCE, THE KEY TO POLITICAL SUCCESS? </span></b></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBymm_eeJzXC83PdQ2jCzM3VngSkhf6qew1NbEiLYwnok7wrymecP0Ch3dlz2Xr9knD-i-6lkE-G9g-VzlHT-D_gnUtoNQx40IlF_ye9ZdUQbAQmJoYXmDrYIe3KNWAZWYxaNlmS9U__4x/s1600/729px-Israel_Air_Force_Flag.svg.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBymm_eeJzXC83PdQ2jCzM3VngSkhf6qew1NbEiLYwnok7wrymecP0Ch3dlz2Xr9knD-i-6lkE-G9g-VzlHT-D_gnUtoNQx40IlF_ye9ZdUQbAQmJoYXmDrYIe3KNWAZWYxaNlmS9U__4x/s320/729px-Israel_Air_Force_Flag.svg.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"></span></b></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">The six batteries deployed by the Air Force wing of the IDF (it is of some note perhaps that ground forces do not operate the systems) have scored a 90% success rate.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">   This is impressive not just because of the short distance and limited interception window for the Raphael systems, but also because of the electronic brains of the unit that allow it to predict whether a missile is headed for a population centre or an empty field, in which case the system allows it to fall and saves the ammunition ($40,000 a shot) for the next attack.<br /><br />This tactical success has enormous strategic and thus diplomatic potential for ISRAEL in particular and for modern warfare in general. This saves ISRAEL battlefield casualties, reduces the prospect of innocent civilian deaths in Gaza as a result and, therefore, ensures that ISRAEL’S precarious diplomatic position is not further eroded.<br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><b>IRON DOME SUCCESS: THE INITIATOR FOR IDF STRATEGIC AND DOCTRINAL SHIFT?</b></span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgke7ZMNF81U0NEz7uPoCGog25RbK2KYmPK2v2nRbIe0Er2CXEP9Ii0kZF1oHETZIOl6hVOuGpNHx-ykw_nxkWvjUxZ201DP0X6yIigWBNSKtTybE7ZB5VpqaDM6pSfHMqfNFKw6r0AjJZX/s1600/$(KGrHqYOKi!E4YU8)(G(BOPuWOmYVQ~~0_35.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgke7ZMNF81U0NEz7uPoCGog25RbK2KYmPK2v2nRbIe0Er2CXEP9Ii0kZF1oHETZIOl6hVOuGpNHx-ykw_nxkWvjUxZ201DP0X6yIigWBNSKtTybE7ZB5VpqaDM6pSfHMqfNFKw6r0AjJZX/s200/$(KGrHqYOKi!E4YU8)(G(BOPuWOmYVQ~~0_35.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">This is just the immediate tactical benefit to ISRAEL. As argued in Haaretz (March 2011, February 2012) and Geopolitical Monitor (August 2012), Iron Dome is just the tactical piece in a comprehensive anti-ballistic missile blanket that offers ISRAEL the potential for a complete strategic and doctrinal shift from its traditional emphasis on pre-emption and air power to an “active deterrent” posture that befits a more established state and superior military vexed by diplomatic isolation.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><br />From the inception of the state in 1948 through the 1967 Six-Day-War and the 1973 Yom Kippur conflict, ISRAELI DEFENSE FORCE doctrine has trumpeted preemption as the means to reduce the disadvantage of the country’s small geographical size and leverage its superior air force.  ISRAEL’S defense establishment again argued for preemption in 1973, but was overruled by a political echelon that chose passive deterrence to win diplomatic favor with the UNITED STATES.  The cost to absorb the first blows from EGYPT and SYRIA was high for ISRAEL. The scale of initial losses led the cabinet to hint at a nuclear response that triggered an AMERICAN airlift of material and diplomatic engagement.<br /><br />The failure of “The Concept” in 1973 renewed ISRAEL’S determination to take the battle to the enemy’s home front and still prevails in ISRAELI military doctrine, rooted in the national psyche.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"></span></span></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzURT3QWhn9wSnvMojX2zF7BVaYZ27al5_D7Cj3DI1OgGmJbI6kFkIQgO7o-VJluvE5a0QRmZ9KhG2TyjeVxhR_N01KlEpvubD1XuzImT4BBvyVeDLXrfsU-1i-jzGayTFFOxtm3rQmvR1/s1600/280px-OsirakLocation.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzURT3QWhn9wSnvMojX2zF7BVaYZ27al5_D7Cj3DI1OgGmJbI6kFkIQgO7o-VJluvE5a0QRmZ9KhG2TyjeVxhR_N01KlEpvubD1XuzImT4BBvyVeDLXrfsU-1i-jzGayTFFOxtm3rQmvR1/s1600/280px-OsirakLocation.png" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Route taken by IAF during 1981 Iraqi Nuclear Reactor attack</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Hence, ISRAEL’S determination to hit IRAN before it acquires nuclear weapons. Hence, ISRAEL’S focus on F-35 fighter jets, bunker-buster bombs, aerial re-fueling capabilities, and frustrated attempts to gain tacit SAUDI or TURKISH approval for aerial attack routes.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Comment by Geopolitical Analysis and Monitoring</span></b><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">: Worthwhile to mention is that SAUDI ARABIA and ISRAEL, though not officially, do foster economic as well as political ties which are utilized when deemed necessary for either strategic or economic reasons. One example is the use of SAUDI airspace during the raid on IRAQ’S Nuclear reactor in 1981. Furthermore, in the unlikely event of a preemptive strike on IRAN, TURKEY would most probably heed to US demand, granting ISRAELI jets to transition TURKISH airspace.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><u><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Background Information</span></u></b><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">: See also: </span><b><span style="color: red; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">War Strategies</span></b><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">: <a href="http://news-these-days.blogspot.com.ar/2012/10/israel-azerbaijan-and-kazakhstan_6.html">http://news-these-days.blogspot.com.ar/2012/10/israel-azerbaijan-and-kazakhstan_6.html</a>and</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: red; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">For better or worst</span></b><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">  </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><a href="http://news-these-days.blogspot.com.ar/2012/06/syria-israel-iran-and-usa.html">http://news-these-days.blogspot.com.ar/2012/06/syria-israel-iran-and-usa.html</a></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">and </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><a href="http://lynch.foreignpolicy.com/posts/2010/02/08/the_saudi_israeli_handshake">http://lynch.foreignpolicy.com/posts/2010/02/08/the_saudi_israeli_handshake</a></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Even if ISRAEL succeeds at enormous financial cost with the prospect of heavy losses of its best pilots, the setback to IRAN’S program will be short-term at best. IRANIAN retaliation, perhaps supported by Hezbollah and even yet again Hamas, seems a realistic prospect. Diplomatic isolation is complete in this scenario.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Geopolitical Analysis and Monitoring</span></b><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">, on many occasions has stated that ISRAEL’S “determination” to strike IRAN is nothing more than tactics in order to obtain negotiation leverage over the USA on future weapons deals and geo strategic as well as geo political concessions. ISRAEL never has or will seriously consider conducting a preemptive strike on IRAN. All propaganda rhetoric’s by ISRAELI politicians, regarding such strike are cleverly designed to maintain the upper hand on <span style="font-size: large;">Geo</span> political strategies in the region. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><u><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><br /></span></u></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><u><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Background Information:</span></u></b><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"> See: </span><b><span style="color: red; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Airstrike unlikely</span></b><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"> <a href="http://news-these-days.blogspot.com.ar/2012/06/israel-iran-syria.html">http://news-these-days.blogspot.com.ar/2012/06/israel-iran-syria.html</a></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">RESTRUCTURE ITS STRATEGIC DOCTRINE, ALLOWING THE COUNTRY’S LEADERS TO BETTER PROTECT THE HOME FRONT BY REDUCING THE IMPERATIVE FOR PREEMPTION…………..</span></b></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Yet, this grim path is not inevitable.  Iron Dome is just the tactical layer of a comprehensive anti-ballistic defense system that is in fact premised on the Arrow-II program.  Developed in earnest after US Patriot systems provided  some protection from Saddam Hussein’s SCUDs in 1991, the Arrow system is designed to counter long-range threats posed by the Shahab missiles IRAN has developed with NORTH KOREAN support to replace the older SCUD technology.  David’s Sling is ISRAEL’S middle-tier ABM, designed to intercept mid-range projectiles form Hezbollah.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><br />Supported by ISRAEL’S own nuclear weapon arsenal, advanced Jericho delivery systems,  and assured second-strike capabilities provided by Dolphin  class submarines,  ISRAEL’S anti-ballistic systems add up to the potential for a powerful “active” deterrent.<br /><br />It is reasonable to consider that should ISRAEL restructure its strategic doctrine to leverage and prioritize its impressive ABM investments that the country’s leaders could better protect the home front, reduce the imperative for preemption, and thus provide ISRAEL with better regional and international diplomatic options as befits a more established state.<br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><b>LEANER, BUT MORE ELITE IDF CORE</b></span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><span style="color: blue;"><b> </b></span> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">As with other WESTERN militaries, the country could then focus on a leaner yet more elite core of personnel and materiel, as opposed to the burden of reliance on reserves.  A few squadrons of F-35s configured for air defense, supported by ground forces and a navy re-positioned for equivalent roles might better prepare ISRAEL for the threats the states now faces  and in the diplomatic context in which it must maneuver.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><u><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Background Information</span></u></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">: See <b><span style="color: red;">L</span></b></span><b><span style="color: red; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">ong-range, largely clandestine and multi-service missions</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"> <a href="http://news-these-days.blogspot.com.ar/2012/05/idf-israeli-defense-forces.html">http://news-these-days.blogspot.com.ar/2012/05/idf-israeli-defense-forces.html</a></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">There is no doubt that, if little else is gained by either party in the present conflict between ISRAEL and Gaza, that the ISRAELIS have scored a dramatic victory on the battlefield with Iron Dome. <b>The full potential of such a victory is at hand if the country’s statesmen and defense establishment can evolve the old doctrine– once so successful and now of dubious benefit– and embrace a new approach. </b></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><br /></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div>

STRATEGIC FALLOUT FROM GAZA:

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Pioneering the granny pod: Fairfax County family adapts to high-tech dwelling that could change elder care - The Washington Post

4:49 PM Tukiyooo 0

<div></div><p>Viola Baez wouldn't budge.</p><p>Her daughter's family had just invested about $125,000 in a new kind of home for her, <a data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/05/05/AR2010050503074.html">a high-tech cottage </a>that might revolutionize the way Americans care for their aging relatives. But Viola wouldn't even step inside.</p><p>She told her family she would rather continue living in the family's dining room than move into the shed-size dwelling that had been lowered by crane into the back yard of their Fairfax County home.</p><p>"You're throwing me out! You're sending me out to a doghouse! Why not put me in a manicomio?" Viola, 88 , told them, using the Spanish word for madhouse.</p><p>Then the air conditioner blew. As temperatures and tempers soared in the main house, Viola's family coaxed her into the cottage to cool off. Viola stayed the night, then another, and another, until summer had turned to fall.</p><p>As the first private inhabitant of a MedCottage, Viola is a reluctant pioneer in <a data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/metro/comingofage/index.html?hpid=topnews">the search for alternatives to nursing homes for aging Americans</a>. Her relatives agonized over the best way to care for Viola only after her ability to care for herself became questionable. Their decision exposed intergenerational friction that worsened after the new dwelling arrived.</p><p>The <a data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/graphic/2010/05/05/GR2010050505248.html">MedCottage</a>, designed by a Blacksburg company with help from Virginia Tech, is essentially a portable hospital room. Virginia state law, which recognized the dwellings a few years ago, classifies them as "temporary family health-care structures." But many simply know them as "<a data-xslt="_http" href="http://voices.washingtonpost.com/local-opinions/2010/05/post_1.html">granny pod</a>s," and they have arrived on the market as the nation prepares for <a data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/09/15/AR2007091501654.html">a wave of graying baby boomers </a>to retire.</p><p>Over the past decade, the population of Americans who are 65 or older has grown faster than the total population, the Census Bureau says. In less than 20 years, the number of Americans who are 65 or older will top 72 million, or more than twice the population of older Americans in 2000, and many will need to <a data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/former-hud-secretary-henry-cisneros-talks-about-aging-in-place/2012/08/10/14536f9e-d5b8-11e1-a9e3-c5249ea531ca_story.html">find living arrangements</a> that balance their need for independence and special care.</p><p>Viola's family understood this. Her daughter, Socorrito Baez-Page, 56, who goes by Soc, and her son-in-law, David Page, 59 — both of whom are doctors — began planning her care well before Viola's husband died of cancer last February. They explored many options and had firsthand experience with several. Soc and David had taken care of or arranged various types of care, including assisted living and hospice, for other parents.</p><p>Their decision to buy the first MedCottage in private use, along with Viola's bumpy adjustment to life inside it, offers a look at an unusual solution to an increasingly common situation and the emotional trade-offs that arise from it.</p><p><strong>Daily routines</strong></p><p>The soft whoosh of an oxygen machine fills the MedCottage when Viola opens her eyes at the light streaming from the windows above her bed.</p><p>"Hello," Soc says.</p><p>Soc has been up for a while. She stands almost at the center of the MedCottage, a self-enclosed space that blends bedroom, kitchenette, foyer and bath the way that a fork and spoon combine to form a spork. Soc has already folded up the rollout bed where she has spent the night at her mother's side, and performed other chores before Viola wakes.</p><p>Viola asks for a bathrobe, and Soc helps her into it, careful not to tangle the oxygen tubes trailing from her mother's nose.</p><p>A week after Viola underwent surgery to remove a cataract, Viola's left eye also looks puffy, as if she's been crying again, as she has almost daily since her husband died.</p><p>"Open your eye," Soc says, speaking in Spanish, as she administers drops. Viola blinks, as if it's painful.</p><p>"Eyes closed, please," Soc says. "Cinco minuto."</p><p>After the eye medicine, Viola maneuvers her walker across the MedCottage to the bathroom. While Viola washes up, Soc brews a mug of instant coffee for her in the microwave oven and prepares a vaporizer that delivers Viola's asthma medicine.</p><p>Viola's walker squeaks softly as she returns and takes a seat at the kitchenette's counter. Her hands tremble as she takes the mug and sips the coffee through the straw, so as not to spill any hot liquid.</p><p>When the vaporizer is ready, Soc puts a mask on Viola. While mist pours from the vents in her mother's face mask, Soc rummages through a cabinet filled with medicine bottles and puts pills in a small cup at her mother's elbow. Then Soc prepares her mother's breakfast, which is crackers and string cheese.</p><p>Viola appears small, hunkered down in her chair. But her eyes can become huge when she talks about growing up in Puerto Rico or her life with her late husband. At times, she struggles for words, but when they come, they flow in a rush, sometimes in Spanish. She chuckles with pride when she recalls driving a motorcycle on her honeymoon in Florida, and then becomes somber in a swift change of mood. Tears well in her eyes one afternoon as she explains that she is in "luto," wearing only black or dark clothing as a sign of mourning.</p><p>"He treated me like I was a queen," she says of her husband. "Without him, nothing is special. Nothing."</p><p>Overhead, a small green light blinks, an indicator that one of the MedCottage's surveillance cameras is powered up and that perhaps an additional family member is watching Viola, too.</p><p><strong>Design elements</strong></p><p>Several firms have entered the market for <a data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.aarp.org/home-garden/housing/info-10-2010/custom_prefab_adus_the_home_store.html">auxiliary dwelling units</a>, or ADUs, as they're known in the building industry. These include <a data-xslt="_http" href="http://fabcab.com/products/fabcab-homes/">FabCab</a>, a Seattle-based company that makes ADUs and full-size homes. <a data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.palsbuilt.com/">Practical Assisted Living Solutions</a>, or PALS, a firm based in Meriden, Conn., makes freestanding modules; and the <a data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.the-homestore.com/">Home Store</a>, which is headquartered in Whately, Mass., sells modular "in-law" additions called "Elderly Cottage Housing Opportunity" additions.</p><p>The MedCottage in Fairfax is about 12 by 24 feet, the size of a typical master bedroom. With its beige aluminum siding — and cosmetic touches such as green shutters — the cottage looks a little like an elaborate dollhouse. The interior, painted gray and white, seems so airy and comfortable that Soc jokes about reusing the dwelling someday as a mountain cabin.</p><p>The idea for the MedCottage came from the Rev. Kenneth J. Dupin, a minister in southwest Virginia who wondered why Americans didn't take better care of their elders. He created <a data-xslt="_http" href="http://medcottage.com/">N2Care</a>, a company that designed the MedCottage with help from the <a data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.vtcrc.com/">Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center</a>. They stuffed its steel shell with the latest in biometric and communications technology, and <a data-xslt="_http" href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/02/20/AR2009022000041.html">crafted its features using universal design principles to accommodate people of all ages and people with disabilities</a>. The company's sales pitch includes dropping an egg onto its specially designed floor from a height of 7 feet to show that the egg won't break.</p><p>"People think it's a rubber egg until we hold it over a hard surface and drop it from 5 inches," said Chris M. Cummins, executive vice president of MedCare Systems, a Mechanicsville, Va.-based distributor.</p><p>In addition to surveillance cameras, the dwelling has an Internet portal by which family members, doctors or other caregivers can monitor an occupant's vital signs, receive medical alerts or change the dwelling's temperature and security settings. The MedCottage retails for about $85,000, but with delivery and installation, Viola's family has spent closer to $125,000.</p><p>"Most people look at that and get sticker shock," Cummins said.</p><p>But Cummins also said that the company offers financing and repurchase programs that make the MedCottage a bargain compared with assisted-living facilities that charge $40,000 or more a year.</p><p><strong>Family drama</strong></p><p>Viola's family is close-knit. Soc recalls taking her daughters, Erin and Shannon, to the Kennedy Center for a National Symphony Orchestra concert when the girls were so little that they listened while perched in car seats.</p><p>Although Erin, 30, is now a lawyer and Shannon, 28, teaches in Fairfax schools, the family still goes to the symphony en masse, and the daughters still live in the family's 1972 split-level on Vengo Court.</p><p>The family is strikingly candid about the stress that comes with Viola's daily care. Her physical problems include spinal stenosis, arthritis and asthma, and she takes about 16 medications. Relatives say Viola has traits that would challenge any caregiver, and some have become more conspicuous with age. She is moodier now, and needier. When Viola went into an assisted-living facility temporarily for physical therapy after a fall, she threw a fit that lasted hours. Soc calmed her by promising not to leave. Soc stayed for so long every day that eventually administrators told Soc the arrangement could not continue.</p><p>"She's very clingy, very persnickety about things," Soc said.</p><p>Viola's late husband, Luis Baez, also pampered her. He was a first lieutenant in the Army when they married. Later, as a civilian architect for the Navy and the Coast Guard, he helped design the Westwind class of icebreakers. In the 1950s, he and Viola bought an Arlington County duplex. But their home became difficult to maneuver as they aged. About the time Luis began thinking of alternatives, he became ill with rapidly progressing renal cancer.</p><p>Soc and David began discussing whether Viola would move in, whether to build an addition, or whether Viola should go into an assisted-living residence. Viola and Luis disliked nursing homes, and Soc's property was not well suited for an addition. Then Soc read about the MedCottage, which Luis endorsed before his death.</p><p>When Luis, 82, died Feb. 28, Viola's granddaughters took turns staying at her Arlington home while Soc and David arranged the MedCottage purchase. Then Viola moved into the house on Vengo Court.</p><p>But there were problems. Living in the family's dining room, Viola disliked being so close to the kitchen when people were cooking. She complained about getting around in the house, saying that there were too many steps, not enough handrails, and that the shower was hard to access. She fought over the thermostat setting because she was too cold, even when everyone else was sweating. And she hated being alone. She wouldn't shower unless someone was nearby.</p><p>By late June, the MedCottage arrived. Workers cut down trees to make room and a crane lowered the cottage onto six concrete piers in the yard.</p><p>Relatives brought photographs of Viola's grandchildren and knickknacks, including a colorful row of miniature houses. Over the bed they hung Roman Catholic icons, including a painting of "Nuestra Senora del Perpetuos Socorro," whose name, like Soc's, means "help" in Spanish.</p><p>But Viola wanted nothing to do with the place. As the standoff dragged on, Soc worried that their money had been wasted, that their MedCottage would end up being the biggest, most expensive storage shed on the planet. Then the air conditioner in the house went kaput, and Viola retreated to the MedCottage for relief.</p><p>Viola now seems used to her new home. On a cabinet in the kitchenette sits a row of faded black-and-white photographs of Viola, wearing a pretty dress and an alluring smile, that she sent to her new husband when he was away on duty.</p><p>Although the MedCottage has made it possible for Viola to live a few steps away from her family, Soc sometimes wishes that Viola were as self-assured and independent as the younger version in those old photos.</p><p>But these days, the family also counts it as a small victory when Viola comes to dinner in the main house and then returns without a fuss to "my place."</p><div><a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/dc-politics/pioneering-the-granny-pod-fairfax-county-family-adapts-to-high-tech-dwelling-that-could-change-elder-care/2012/11/25/4d9ccb44-1e18-11e2-ba31-3083ca97c314_story.html?hpid=z2">http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/dc-politics/pioneering-the-granny-pod-fairfax-county-family-adapts-to-high-tech-dwelling-that-could-change-elder-care/2012/11/25/4d9ccb44-1e18-11e2-ba31-3083ca97c314_story.html?hpid=z2</a></div><div><br></div>

Pioneering the granny pod: Fairfax County family adapts to high-tech dwelling that could change elder care - The Washington Post

Viola Baez wouldn't budge.Her daughter's family had just invested about $125,000 in a new kind of home for her, a high-tech cottage that might revolutionize the way Americans care for their aging relatives. But Viola wouldn't even step inside.She tol…

Fruit That's It!

2:32 PM Tukiyooo 0

<div style="text-align: center;">I recently received these treats as part of the Healthy Surprise box.   In the box it had a bunch of treats that are organic and healthy, which is good! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> These days lately I am all about healthy! Whether it's eating healthy, exercising or drinking water.   So before I go to work everyday I pack a snack or a lunch.   I packed one of the That's It Fruit Bars.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> As I started getting hungry in the middle of the day I grabbed it and thought this sounds pretty good because it's packed with fruit and healthy too. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> So I carefully opened the wrapper and took my first bite!  It comes across as a granola bar, but taste like a healthy fruit by the foot!   I am so in love with them!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> I was disappointed that in the box they only offered two flavors!  So I looked on the That's It website and I saw that they had them on the locator at Whole Foods, I go there a lot!  I went to Whole Foods and looked for them and couldn't find them. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Maybe they were sold out who knows, All I know is that I love them and can't wait to try the other flavors!   </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRISpkNwH0_fhOPc5HHDaEH2QO39qOrxFmxxt_0VQ6o2fg2lwC0BEOYjWoLiNqXfepoLM5DSXXfXggvE9WcX690yX9bF-pHpGDRiGpP3ObaT9UCXs335NNTblcn1DFHy4XXlCfYxXxek8/s1600/that%2527s+it.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRISpkNwH0_fhOPc5HHDaEH2QO39qOrxFmxxt_0VQ6o2fg2lwC0BEOYjWoLiNqXfepoLM5DSXXfXggvE9WcX690yX9bF-pHpGDRiGpP3ObaT9UCXs335NNTblcn1DFHy4XXlCfYxXxek8/s320/that%2527s+it.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><a href="http://www.thatsitfruit.com/shopbuy-our-products/"></a>

Fruit That's It!

I recently received these treats as part of the Healthy Surprise box. In the box it had a bunch of treats that are organic and healthy, which is good! These days lately I am all about healthy! Whether it's eating healthy, exercising or drinking wa…

SchoolNet webinars 27 November – 29 November 2012

12:21 PM Tukiyooo 0

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit07I3KQr752-wv1Ne8ztVBox8pJtkvvnp23B_hbrkb86a3iijxiQsSO3okDoDOG8-7z07V4TsbPpps6rjEd3mVb5uD4CRR8hbc4jI1viSW1Qixcx5RZscVbjp9b4tEen3hX_-r_JO0b0/s1600-h/webinars1%25255B2%25255D.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="webinars1" border="0" height="68" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbHtEGo_uYSiyJ5JNLUCyU2zAZD6kiZkpmvsQzDU_NKTuFTNo3C0JT9kOaCyNByHCK1opTScbOxpbbVv5v88L2fxeZyxvPfZw0AI9NrSKuc1N3q4sVCZ4qTqmBzDlrRnafgwsVTPW5z_k/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="webinars1" width="244" /></a></div><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">These are our SchoolNet webinars for this week - Do join us if you can. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>(1) Bring Your Own Device – does it work?</b></span><br /><u style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Summary</u><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">: </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Two educators relate the ins and outs plus successes of introducing the BYOD approach at their schools. In the ‘Bring Your Own Device’ approach the students are encouraged to bring their own technology like smartphones, tablets, and laptops to school for educational use in the classroom. </span><br /><u style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Presenters</u><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">: </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Michele Botha from Somerset House in Somerset West will speak on ‘Our BYOD pilot in Grades 6 and 7’  </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Nina Adams from St Cyprians in Cape Town calls her presentation ‘To BYOD'ly go....’</span><br /><u style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When</u><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">: </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Tues 27 Nov 2012: 6:00 PM - 6:30 PM</span><br /><u style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Time Zone</u><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">: </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">(GMT+02:00) Harare, Pretoria</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Link: </span><a href="http://meet78641452.adobeconnect.com/byod/" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">http://meet78641452.adobeconnect.com/byod/</a><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>(2) </b><strong>Get the hang of a Google Hangout</strong></span><br /><u style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Summary</u><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">: </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This webinar introduces you to Google hangouts which have great potential for educators. Hangouts are free video chats from Google that enables both one-on-one chats and group chats with up to ten people at a time (apparently now up to 15 if used for education). You can watch YouTube videos, share documents, collaborate on a Google document or use a whiteboard to name but a few of the amazing features. </span><br /><u style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Presenter</u><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">: </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Fiona Beal</span><br /><u style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When</u><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">: </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thursday 29 Nove. 2012: 6:00 PM - 6:15 PM</span><br /><u style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Time Zone</u><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">: </span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">(GMT+02:00) Harare, Pretoria</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">URL: </span><a href="http://meet78641452.adobeconnect.com/hangout/" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">http://meet78641452.adobeconnect.com/hangout/</a></div>

webinars SchoolNet webinars 27 November – 29 November 2012

These are our SchoolNet webinars for this week - Do join us if you can. (1) Bring Your Own Device – does it work?Summary: Two educators relate the ins and outs plus successes of introducing the BYOD approach at their schools. In the ‘Bring Your Own D…

Teach This! Teaching with lesson plans and ideas that rock 11/26/2012

11:30 AM Tukiyooo 0

<ul class="diigo-linkroll">      <li>      <p class="diigo-link">                <a href="https://teachers.io">Teachers.io</a>      </p>      <p class="diigo-description">Another option for organizing classes and sharing your syllabus and work. There are a lot of options out there. It is important for schools to plan how work will lbe disseminated and students will connect. Bricks and CLICKS are important decisons for schools to make - where will students meet face to face and online. It is time to be discussing this now - particularly for middle and high school.   "Schedule  Teachers.io helps you organize your class schedule, so you know what's coming up next.Your class information can easily be copied between sections and semesters too."</p>              <p class="diigo-tags">          <span>tags:</span>                      <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/education">education</a>            <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/teaching">teaching</a>            <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/apps">apps</a>            <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/ipad">ipad</a>            <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/byot">byot</a>            <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/byod">byod</a></p>                                        </li>      <li>      <p class="diigo-link">                <a href="https://myhomeworkapp.com">myHomework Student Planner</a>      </p>      <p class="diigo-description">An app that some students are using to organize homework. It is worth a look.</p>              <p class="diigo-tags">          <span>tags:</span>                      <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/education">education</a>            <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/homework">homework</a>            <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/teaching">teaching</a>            <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/apps">apps</a>            <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/ipad">ipad</a>            <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/ipadchat">ipadchat</a></p>                                        </li>      <li>      <p class="diigo-link">                <a href="http://www.classroomdiy.com/2012/11/diy-poinsettia-craft.html">Classroom DIY: DIY Poinsettia Craft</a>      </p>      <p class="diigo-description">This craft gives you information on how to make a poinsettia, a craft some of you teachers may enjoy in December.</p>              <p class="diigo-tags">          <span>tags:</span>                      <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/elementary_teacher">elementary_teacher</a>            <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/elementary">elementary</a>            <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/craft">craft</a>            <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/teaching">teaching</a>            <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/December">December</a></p>                                        </li>      <li>      <p class="diigo-link">                <a href="http://www.thecurriculumcentre.org/blog/2012/11/20/review-each-lesson-plan-in-terms-of-what-the-student-is-likely-to-think-about/">‘Review each lesson plan in terms of what the student is likely to think about.’ | The Curriculum Centre Blog</a>      </p>      <p class="diigo-description">Fascinating read about current cognitive research and lesson plans and information on education reform in the UK, which is being driven largely by the mentioned book in this quote. If you want to look at the research being discussed in the UK, I'd start with this article.  "In Why Don’t Students Like School, Willingham says that ‘the most general and useful idea that cognitive psychology can offer teachers’ is to ‘review each lesson plan in terms of what the student is likely to think about’. I could not agree more. Last year I applied this idea to every single lesson I taught, and I apply it now to all the resources I design. It may sound obvious but it was not something I did before I read Willingham, and it absolutely was not something that my teacher training taught me to think about.  Students are more likely to remember something they’ve had to think about – or, in another of Willingham’s phrases, memory is the residue of thought. So we need to make sure that students are thinking about the right thing for the whole lesson. That way there is a better chance they will remember it. This approach also eliminates dull rote-learning. If pupils are always thinking about the right thing and thinking about its meaning, then they are more likely to remember it, and to remember it meaningfully."</p>              <p class="diigo-tags">          <span>tags:</span>                      <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/education">education</a>            <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/teaching">teaching</a>            <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/research">research</a>            <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/tumblr">tumblr</a>            <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/news">news</a>            <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/cognition">cognition</a></p>                                        </li>      <li>      <p class="diigo-link">                <a href="http://www.smartappsforkids.com/2012/11/the-top-100-apps-for-kids-61-70.html">The Top 100 Apps for Kids: 61-70! - Smart Apps For Kids</a>      </p>      <p class="diigo-description">This website lists popular apps for kids and I find interesting apps on the list. Several I've heard teachers mention include Brainpop and Hungry Fish math.</p>              <p class="diigo-tags">          <span>tags:</span>                      <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/education">education</a>            <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/teaching">teaching</a>            <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/ipad">ipad</a></p>                                        </li>      <li>      <p class="diigo-link">                <a href="http://www.openculture.com/2012/11/khan_academy_releases_new_app_for_iphone_ipod_touch.html">Khan Academy Releases New App for iPhone & iPod Touch, Giving You Mobile Access to 3600 Videos</a>      </p>      <p class="diigo-description">Whether you love or hate them, the sheer volume of their repository and the fact that some videos are useful has them in the limelight -- Bill Gates, their primary benefactor, also pushes them there, even though many of their videos have come under fire. This is an app to test and note.  "Non-profit Khan Academy, an organization dedicated to “providing a free world-class education for anyone anywhere,” does so primarily through online video courses and lectures. The over 3600 videos are free and access is open to anyone (anywhere), allowing K-12 students to study math, science, computer science, finance & economics, humanities, and test prep. The organization was founded in 2006 by MIT and Harvard grad Salman Khan, who began by tutoring relatives and friends in Bangladesh while he worked as a hedge fund analyst in the States. His videos became so in-demand that he decided to quit his job and distribute them full-time, funded by donations from individuals and major donors like the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation."</p>              <p class="diigo-tags">          <span>tags:</span>                      <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/education">education</a>            <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/tumblr">tumblr</a>            <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/teaching">teaching</a>            <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/flipclass">flipclass</a>            <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/khanacademy">khanacademy</a></p>                                        </li>  </ul><p class="diigo-ps">Posted from <a href='http://www.diigo.com'>Diigo</a>. The rest of my favorite links are <a href='http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher'>here</a>.</p>

Teach This! Teaching with lesson plans and ideas that rock 11/26/2012

Teachers.io Another option for organizing classes and sharing your syllabus and work. There are a lot of options out there. It is important for schools to plan how work will lbe disseminated and students will co…

Customer Experience Manager - Hartford Public Library

8:19 AM Anonymous 0

<strong>Customer Experience Manager - </strong><span style="color: #48286d;"><strong>Hartford Public Library</strong></span> is going through transformation.  If you enjoy a rewarding work  environment where your hard work can truly make a difference, come join  us! We are looking for an experienced innovative leader who will be  responsible for managing the operations and activities of the Downtown  Library’s customer service operations. Responsibilities: The successful  candidate will have a vision and understanding of library services with  an eye to the future and the contemporary needs of the public. Results  oriented, committed to collaboration and having fun. Excellent  communicator and have a proven ability to implement and lead change.  Ensures and facilitates the delivery of high-quality, customer focused  services. Qualifications: Masters degree in library science from an  ALA-accredited program required. Five (5) years management and three (3)  years supervisory experience in public library services, including  demonstrated ability to implement strategic library objectives with  measurable outcomes, effectively supervise and motive staff, and develop  and maintain positive relationships with community. Direct experience  as a customer service leader. Salary range: starting at $55,168,  dependent upon experience. Equal Opportunity Employer. Job description  and application are available from the Administrative Offices, Hartford  Public Library, 500 Main Street, Hartford, CT  06103 and on our website;  <a _fcksavedurl="http://www.hplct.org" href="http://www.hplct.org/" target="_blank">www.hplct.org</a>.  Hartford Public Library requires a Criminal Background Check and  Pre-employment Drug Testing on applicants who are selected as a finalist  for the position. Applicants will be provided a copy of any positive  drug test results. A criminal record does not necessarily eliminate you  from employment with Hartford Public Library. Each conviction will be  reviewed with respect to the offense, circumstances, seriousness and the  position for which you apply. Deadline: <span style="color: red;">December 22, 2012</span>.

Customer Experience Manager - Hartford Public Library

Customer Experience Manager - Hartford Public Library is going through transformation. If you enjoy a rewarding work environment where your hard work can truly make a difference, come join us! We are looking for an experienced innovative leader wh…

7:59 AM Anonymous 0

<br /><div class="RXart" style="background-color: white; padding-right: 20px; text-align: left;"><div class="ArticleHeadline" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; margin-top: -30px;"><div class="hdr_org_bld" style="color: #ff6600; font: normal normal bold 18px/normal arial, helvetica;"><h1 id="articleHeadline" style="color: #000066; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span id="cbArticle_lblHeadline">How to network via social media</span></h1></div><b><span id="cbArticle_lblByLine">By Susan Ricker, CareerBuilder Writer</span></b><br /><div class="cb_share_more_wrapper"></div></div><br /><div class="ArticleContent"><div style="clear: left; float: left; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" class="media-image" src="http://artstg.icbdr.com/sites/all/files/styles/large/public/Networking%20via%20social%20media_0.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" /></div><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">Facebook is great for staying in touch with friends, sharing funny cat videos or seeing what an ex-boyfriend/girlfriend is up to, but can it help you get a job? Absolutely. Social-media websites such as Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter are great platforms for networking and keeping up with industry trends.</div><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">"The benefits can be huge. Although time consuming, if you do it correctly, you can gain lots of attention, fans, followers and clients," says Ashley Jones, owner of <a href="http://www.skylightcreativegroup.com/" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial; text-decoration: none;">Skylight Creative Group</a>, a marketing, graphic design and photography company. "I've done a lot of networking through social media for myself personally, my two companies and also helping other companies through their startup/launch process."</div><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">Here are Jones' top seven tips for networking via social media:</div><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><strong>1. Don't post something just to post it.</strong> Make sure your content is relevant or interesting.</div><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><strong>2. If you're using social media to network, stay professional.</strong> There's a tendency to relax and get too casual or personal.</div><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><strong>3. Use the tools to their full potential.</strong> If you're on LinkedIn, join groups, answer questions or get your name and profile out there to meet new people. No matter the platform, don't expect people to come to you if you're not engaging.  </div><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><strong>4. Don't spam or post too frequently.</strong> People are bombarded with updates, messages, etc., and if you post too much fluff, you'll lose your audience fast.</div><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><strong>5. Don't just post the same thing across different platforms.</strong> It's OK if you occasionally post something you tweeted to Facebook or upload a Facebook photo to Pinterest, but if you're constantly posting the same content across all platforms, why would anyone follow you on more than one platform?</div><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><strong>6. Keep your content fresh.</strong> Don't let your last post sit for a month before another update. Keep things new so people come back and check for updates.</div><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><strong>7. Follow up with connections.</strong> While this may be  time-consuming, it goes a long way when you respond to a comment, post or message. It's a great way to let your fans or followers know you care.</div><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">The key to networking is becoming an active part of the community or industry of interest. Contribute to the conversation. Ask for advice about your current job or job prospect. Interact with others, and thoughtfully answer their questions. Post links to relevant articles you find. Networking should be a mutually beneficial experience, so if someone helps you, return the favor.</div><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><em>Susan Ricker is a writer and blogger for </em><a href="http://www.careerbuilder.com/" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial; text-decoration: none;"><em>CareerBuilder.com</em></a><em> and its job blog, </em><a href="http://www.theworkbuzz.com/" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><em>The Work Buzz</em></a><em>. She researches and writes about job search strategy, career management, hiring trends and workplace issues.</em></div><br /></div></div>

How to network via social mediaBy Susan Ricker, CareerBuilder WriterFacebook is great for staying in touch with friends, sharing funny cat videos or seeing what an ex-boyfriend/girlfriend is up to, but can it help you get a job? Absolutely. Social-me…

Business Resource Center Coordinator - Simsbury Public Library

7:50 AM Anonymous 0

<strong>Business Resource Center Coordinator -</strong> <strong><span style="color: #48286d;">Simsbury Public Library</span></strong> is looking for a dynamic librarian with a passion for business and  entrepreneurship to take their award-winning Business Resource Center to  a new level of service.  You should have strong teaching,  problem-solving and people skills.  You should also demonstrate a  commitment to helping jobseekers and businesses of all sizes grow and  prosper. Business experience is preferred. The position requires some  evening and weekend hours. RESPONSIBILITIES: Plan, execute, promote and  evaluate Business Resource Center programs and services. REQUIREMENTS:  MLS from ALA accredited program. Must be self-directed, well organized,  and able to meet deadlines and multiple demands. Thorough knowledge of  business/employment/career information resources. Thorough knowledge of  marketing and public relations principles. Thorough knowledge of  principles and practices of effective customer service. Demonstrated  ability to communicate, both orally and in writing, to a variety of  audiences.  Inventive approach to the development of new services;  commitment to responsive and innovative service is essential. Highly  Desirable: Teaching experience using active learning techniques;  demonstrated competence in using business and productivity software.  Business/marketing background preferred. SALARY: $58,280 - $69,652 plus  benefits for a 35 hour work week. TO APPLY: Submit application and  resume at <a _fcksavedurl="http://www.simsbury-ct.gov/jobs" href="http://www.simsbury-ct.gov/jobs" target="_blank">www.simsbury-ct.gov/jobs</a>. Deadline: Sunday <span style="color: red;">December 16, 2012</span>. No paper applications accepted.

Business Resource Center Coordinator - Simsbury Public Library

Business Resource Center Coordinator - Simsbury Public Library is looking for a dynamic librarian with a passion for business and entrepreneurship to take their award-winning Business Resource Center to a new level of service. You should have stro…

Daily Education and Technology News for Schools 11/26/2012

1:30 AM Tukiyooo 0

<ul class="diigo-linkroll">      <li>      <p class="diigo-link">                <a href="http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/2012/11/the-decline-of-fascination-and-the-rise-in-ennui.html">The decline of fascination and the rise in ennui</a>      </p>      <p class="diigo-description">Seth Godin writes, "Today, an internet video or an investment philosophy or a political moment might last for weeks or even a few days. It's not unusual for a movie or a book or even a TV series to come and go before most people notice it. Neophilia has fundamentally changed the culture."  This "neophilia" or craving for new things is a ping pong game that never ends. The fact in education is that there are strategies that have worked for a long time that we can use in the classroom. Not everything has to be new -- all the time -- my classroom has been doing the Flat Classroom project every year once a year for the last 5 years since Julie Lindsay and I first invented it. Sure, we've added new things and elements like a Diigo bookmarking group -- we're always trying to improve it -- but you don't have to always have all new things all the time.  Neither can we have a static classroom of "filing cabinet" lesson plans. I once heard a veteran teacher say "may it never be said that I taught the same year 30 times, but instead that I taught for 30 years - always reinventing and improving." We must reinvent and improve.  I find myself tired and exhausted of the addiction to new -- and now there is a name I can use for this -- "neophilia." The question about anything new is "does it improve upon what we already know to be true" and also, in the case of services and apps - I ALWAYS ask myself now, "does it have a sustainable business model" -- if not -- it won't be here in 5 years. This is part of why we had to start charging for Flat Classroom because we HAD to start hiring some people to run projects and set up structures so that it can continue -- to expect everyone to devote hours a week to keep something running for free isn't sustainable because people have to pay their bills.   It is time that Web 2 grew up to be "Web Do" -- what does it do? Will it continue to do and improve? Instead, some people are just stuck in "Web New."  While new and novel can keep us interested, it should never be everything.   "Make new friends but keep the old, one is silver, the other's gold." -- I use this in my keynote "12 Habits of the Top 21st century teacher" -- talking about new technologies -- keep what works and improve what doesn't.   Let's move from Web 2 to "Web Do" and avoid getting so addicted to "Web New" that we throw out what works.  </p>              <p class="diigo-tags">          <span>tags:</span>                      <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/education">education</a>            <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/news">news</a>            <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/edreform">edreform</a>            <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/tumblr">tumblr</a></p>                                        </li>      <li>      <p class="diigo-link">                <a href="http://1to1inpractice.blogspot.com/2012/11/write-now-1000-kids-writing-for-kids.html">Write Now 1000 - Kids Writing for Kids</a>      </p>      <p class="diigo-description">Can one school publish 1000 books? Students can be publishers. Of course, I would ask and question if these books are being done well, but does it have to be done well? In the end, I guess ratings, etc. will help some rise to the top -- sort of like YouTube but I wonder if the ratings system in place in iBooks or Amazon will allow such things to really happen as not everyone really writes reviews. I think writing reviews of book should be as simple as it is to write a review of an app -- but one thing is for sure, the person should be confirmed to own a book before writing a review -- that can be done with ebooks. Interesting idea and one for composition and writing teachers to consider (and this can be in tandem with art courses as a cross curricular.)</p>              <p class="diigo-tags">          <span>tags:</span>                      <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/education">education</a>            <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/ebook">ebook</a>            <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/news">news</a>            <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/writing">writing</a>            <a href="http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher/tumblr">tumblr</a></p>                                        </li>  </ul><p class="diigo-ps">Posted from <a href='http://www.diigo.com'>Diigo</a>. The rest of my favorite links are <a href='http://www.diigo.com/user/coolcatteacher'>here</a>.</p>

Daily Education and Technology News for Schools 11/26/2012

The decline of fascination and the rise in ennui Seth Godin writes, "Today, an internet video or an investment philosophy or a political moment might last for weeks or even a few days. It's not unusual for a mov…